This summer, DSN proudly returned for the second time to the Maccabi Games, the Olympic-style sporting and cultural event for Jewish teens held annually across North America. What began just two years ago as an opportunity to expand DSN’s basketball program has already blossomed into something extraordinary for our community’s youth.
DSN brought 24 community athletes to Tucson, Arizona, in July, competing in two sports: basketball and tennis. DSN’s basketball team of 17-year-olds made history, becoming the first NY/NJ team to ever win a GOLD championship. In addition, its basketball team of 15-year-olds secured a BRONZE medal. In tennis, Jack Massry represented DSN in the 15-year-old division. He delivered a remarkable performance and brought home the GOLD medal. He also received a middot award for helping other players.
DSN’s 17-year-olds faced crushing adversity early on. Starter Jack Dweck tore a ligament and broke his thumb, leaving the team short-handed. After dropping three straight games, many teams might have folded, but DSN’s coach David Simhon reminded the boys of their true strength, saying, “Teams may be more skilled than us, but the one thing they don’t have that we do, we are family.” Inspired, the team rallied. Jack kept playing through his injury and the squad went on to upset the number 3 and number 2 seeds, defeating every team they had previously lost to. In a dramatic finale, with the score tied, Bruce Epstein drained a clutch three-pointer to seal the GOLD medal victory. The celebration was electric. What started as heartbreak became a monumental triumph, showing the grit, brotherhood, and heart that defines DSN athletics.
Reflecting on the experience, DSN Sports Director Jon Entel shared, “The Maccabi Games are a marathon and a rollercoaster of emotions. Being there with these boys who have been in the DSN program for eight years now and seeing how far they’ve each come in their journey is super special. Seeing them push through adversity in an unfamiliar city and rally around one another, becoming a family that motivated each other toward greatness. This is why I love what I do.”
It was a whirlwind five days of competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. From Tucson to triumph, DSN athletes showed what it means to compete with heart and pride. Next year, the journey continues as DSN heads to Kansas City, ready for new challenges and undeniably new victories.
