September 29, 2010 | 10:17 am

The Mighty Ducks Goldberg!!!

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Follow me on

During my childhood there are few movies that defined an era like the Mighty Ducks. Every kid at the time got on their skates or blades and tried the triple deke. Sometimes as Banks, sometimes as Conway, and sometimes to spice it up we were the goalie GOLDBERG!!! As a young Jewish kid to see one of my own win the Minnesota youth hockey championship and a title for Team USA,  it was just inspiring. Well, we at The Great Rabbino have out done ourselves this time. We caught up with Shaun Weiss/GOLDBERG for an interview. Great guy. Legendary role. Jewish sports icon!

INTERVIEW:
The Great Rabbino: Hey man, thank you for agreeing to do this interview. You are definitely a Jewish Sports legend.

TGR: To start off the interview, be honest what was bigger for your career the Mighty Ducks or the episode of Saved By the Bell the College Years that you were in? And in a follow up question, is Kelly Kapowski as awesome in real life?

Shaun: Never met her. I did 6 episodes of the new class so I got to hang with Screech… zoiks! But her sideburns always bugged me.

TGR: What kind of training did you have to do to get ready for your role as Goldberg?

Shaun: We had 3 months of hockey camp. Skating didn’t come easy for me, I spent the first month on my ass. Never wanted to quit, but I did wish the movie was about the Oregon football team.

TGR: What was the best piece of advice you ever received from Coach Bombay and do you think you could kick Charlie Conway’s ass right now?

Shaun: I assume you mean Emilio, the real guy. Best advice: “If ur going to hook up with the extras, get their parents to sign a release form”. Kick conways ass? What kind of mench are you guy?

TGR: Since this is a Jewish Sports blog, I was wondering what it was like playing the token Jew in the film? Did it follow your throughout High School? Did you actually grow up in a Jewish home?

Shaun: Token Jew? Hmm… felt more like the token fat kid. The schools I attended were predominantly Jewish, so for a couple years there was a bar/bat mitzfah every weekend, sometimes two. It was fun watching them try to top each other. Kept waiting for Streisand to show up and bust out the hava nagila.

TGR: You are definitely a movie star to all of my friends and we love your ESPN commercial, so what else have you been up to recently?

Shaun: I’m a stand up comedian and have been studying the screenwriting craft for a decade.

TGR: Lastly, the question that I think is on all of our minds. Have you ever tried a triple deke and does it actually work?

Shaun: Never tried the triple Deke. Of course it works, didn’t you see the movie?

Big thanks to Shaun Weiss/Goldberg. Huge fan of the movies.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
-Jeremy Fine
For more check out www.TheGreatRabbino.com

September 26, 2010 | 7:55 pm

Where Should We Look Now?

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Many people all over the blog world expressed their disapproval/disappointment over Jason Marquis’ decision to pitch on Yom Kippur. Plenty of comments were made and the fact is the majority of people can’t understand why he had to pitch on the holiest day of the year (to most people, but rabbis would argue Shabbat is the holiest day of the year). But in all fairness Marquis wasn’t alone. No Jewish MLBers sat out for Yom Kippur (unless on the DL). In fact, even minor league players like the Indians up and coming Jason Kipnis played.

So TGR begs to ask the question, where are our Jewish role models? If we are looking at athletes as potential Jewish heroes, don’t they have to stand for something? Or do they simply need to be Jewish?

I propose two professional athletes. The first is Omri Casspi. Casspi has not only been carrying the Israeli flag where ever he goes, but he was immersed himself in his Jewish identity. Rumor has it he has kosher meals prepared for him on the road. I know for a fact who has been very active in the Jewish community and spoken with several rabbis. He has done this not for money or exposure. He has done this for Jewish pride. He has been a symbol for the Jewish people.

The second is Yuri Foreman. While he lost his big fight at Yankee Stadium, Foreman has become a well recognized boxing champion. In the bright lights and the glory that comes with appearing on the Jimmy Kimmel show Foreman has stayed true to who he is and to his heritage. Yes, Foreman is studying to be a rabbi. And one could say…well he is a Super Jew so that is not a fair comparison. I say, all the more so we should get behind him. He won’t fight on Shabbos, great. He keeps kosher, amazing. He believes in God, even better.

Many years ago when the story about Tamir Goodman broke and Goodman said that he wouldn’t play on Shabbos people thought he was crazy. He was willing to give up a ride to Maryland (which won the NCAA Championship that year by the way) for his religious belief. Seriously, as a high school student playing basketball at the time, I thought he was an idiot. But looking back at it, now I would love someone to stand up for their beliefs like that. At very least take off the one day in which the whole Jewish world recognizes that you are pitching (because in the case of Marquis no one has noticed him all season long anyway). So, today we should really stand behind Casspi and Foreman and all other players, coaches, or athletes who say…at least one day a year, that Judaism is more important than the game/job we play.

So, my word of advice is to go see Casspi this year. If he is coming to your town, buy the ticket. Even if it is a little extra money. Hold up that Israeli flag. Buy the jersey. And relish that one of your own is doing the right thing.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

WEDNESDAY TGR PROUDLY BRINGS YOU A LONG AWAITED INTERVIEW WITH GOLDBERG FROM THE MIGHTY DUCKS!!!!!!! WWW.TheGreatRabbino.com

0 Comments — Leave your comment

September 19, 2010 | 4:54 pm

MLB Player of The Year Awards

Posted by Jeremy Fine

As the baseball season winds down here are your candidates for MLB Players of the Year. Voting will take place until the end of the season and it will be on a poll on the side of the blog (www.TheGreatRabbino.com).

TGR has made a decision to not hold voting for the Sandy Koufax Award (best Jewish MLB pitcher) due to the majority poor performances by pitchers this year. We have awarded Craig Breslow the 2010 Sandy Koufax Award.

Below are the nominees for the Hank Greenberg Award ( MLB best Jewish hitter). As of 9/19:

1) Ryan Braun -.307 BA, 22 HRs, 89 RBIs, .361 OBP, .495 SLG

2) Danny Valencia - .339 BA, 4 HRs, 33 RBIs, .379 OBP, .462 SLG

3) Kevin Youkilis - .307 BA, 19 HRs, 62 RBIs, .411 OBP, .564 SLG

4) Ike Davis - .260 BA, 18 HRs, 69 RBIs, .347 OBP, .441 SLG

5) Ian Kinsler - .296 BA, 9 HRs, 45 RBIs, .387 OBP, .429 SLG

Happy Voting!
And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

For More Check Out WWW.THEGREATRABBINO.COM

1 Comments — Leave your comment

September 19, 2010 | 9:59 am

JCA Makes a Statement on Pearl Situation

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Recently, Bruce Pearl found himself in a tough situation (Story: www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/13919242/pearl-admits-mistakes-during-ncaa-probe-has-salary-cut). The Jewish Coaches Association sent a statement to TGR.  Read it below:

JEWISH COACHES ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT ON ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT – BRUCE PEARL

September 17, 2010

Jewish Coaches Association (JCA)

Miami, FL- In light of the current state of events, the Jewish Coaches Association would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our association’s President, Bruce Pearl.  Although mistakes were made, coach Pearl has admitted his fault and taken full responsibility for the prevailing accusations.

At the JCA, our coaches work with strong diligence and integrity while serving as role models to not only their teams but to their schools and the community. This is what Bruce Pearl is and will continue to be, a great role model and an honorable man. He is the definition of an admirable coach and a resolute observer of the Jewish faith. Bruce has an amazing reputation around the game, not just for his coaching abilities, but for the type of person he is.

As the recipient of our 2010 Red Auerbach Coach of the Year Award, Bruce did not simply earn the award because of his remarkable season; members of the JCA felt that he embodied everything that the award represents: dedication, passion, honor and principal.

Bruce has been an avid ambassador and contributor to not just our organization, but a variety of other non-profits including the Jewish Federations of North America as well as the OutLive Campaign against Cancer. He is a praiseworthy coach and friend that we will continue to support. He has had an immense impact on our association and we look forward to working with him in the future.

The Jewish Coaches Association was founded in 2006 as an advocacy and outreach group for Jewish basketball coaches. The organization’s mission is to utilize the teachings of the Jewish faith in order to foster the growth and development of coaching, program building and leadership skills amongst its members. The association also aims at creating networking opportunities for members around the nation and the overall support of Jewish basketball.

For more information check out www.TheGreatRabbino.com

0 Comments — Leave your comment

September 15, 2010 | 3:27 pm

Marquis is No Koufax…But We Already Knew That

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Apparently Jason Marquis has come out publicly and said he would make his scheduled start this Friday (Kol Nidre). Marquis said, “Your team expects you to do your job and not let your teammates down, and that’s the approach I take.”

So we knew Marquis was no Sandy Koufax on the mound, but now he won’t miss a schedule (and meaningless) start. I am not sure what to say. I think it is disappointing. Koufax did it in the World Series and Marquis can’t even pitch a day or two later?

But we can’t fault Marquis. But to my knowledge no other player is taking off for the holiday.

If more information comes up I will let you know.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
-Jeremy Fine
For more info check out www.TheGreatRabbino.com

0 Comments — Leave your comment

September 13, 2010 | 3:58 pm

The New Next Big Thing in the NCAA

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Born in Cottage Grove Wisconsin, Gabe Carimi was born to be a Badger. Standing 6’7 327 lbs this offensive tackle is intimidating and the anchor of for a solid offensive line for Wisconsin. He also happens to be Jewish. Last year, TGR world was introduced to Taylor Mays. A punishing free safety. Carimi is this year’s Mays. The future of the Jewish football. The next high pick in the NFL draft.

This year Carimi list of preseason expectations are as big as he is. Carimi is First-team All-American by Lindy’s and Consensus Draft Services,  First-team All-American and All-Big Ten by Athlon Sports and first-team All-Big Ten by Blue Ribbon. He was also named to Rotary Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy Watch Lists. This followed last year’s awards First-team All-Big Ten by media and second-team All-Big Ten by coaches. Also, Fourth-team All-American by Phil Steele. He has started all 38 games he has appeared in.

The Badgers have begun the season 2-0. As the Badgers continue to play well and most likely head to a solid bowl game, Carimi will continue to gain more exposure (including by us). NFLMocks.com has Carimi as a 1st round pick and we want to agree.  He has the size and talent to be great. So keep your eye on #68. We for sure will.

And Let Us Say…Amen.

-Jeremy Fine
For more checkout www.TheGreatRabbino.com

0 Comments — Leave your comment

September 8, 2010 | 7:07 am

Interview with Jewish Hall of Famer Shawn Lipman

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Recently TGR caught up with arguably the greatest Jewish rugby player of all time. That’s right rugby. If you haven’t played or seen rugby you should. It is brutal. Real tough athletes who lay it all on the line. Thank you to our correspondent Rabbi Erez Sherman for setting this up.

INTERVIEW

1) Tell the TGR world a little bit about yourself?

I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa and developed a love for rugby, the national pastime at a young age. Rugby was not a sport that was generally played by Jews, but I loved it. I joined Wits University Rugby Club at Under 20 level in 1983 on a Rugby scholarship, from Sandringham High School, where I was a first team (varsity) player, having received full colors (awarded to selected best players) in Rugby. I represented Transvaal Under 20s (Provincial All Stars, highest level in South Africa for my age group) whilst playing at university, and also South Africa in the Maccabiah Games in 1985. I emigrated to the United States at the end of 1985and joined the Santa Monica Rugby Club where I immediately made lifelong friends. Through my selection to the regional All Star teams, I was selected to play on the United States national team in 1988, earning my first cap (full international) against Canada, who we beat for the first time in many attempts. I travelled all over the world with the US National Team and represented the United States in the 1991 Rugby World Cup in England, the third largest sporting event in the world. I represented the U.S. team in over 20 international matches, including 9 test matches, and was fortunate enough to play against some of the best national teams and players in the world, including the New Zealand All Blacks, England and France. I played in 5 World Maccabiah Games ( held every four years in Israel) as a player, having captained the U.S. team in 1993 and 1997, and represented the U.S. in 1989 and South Africa in 1985. I was selected as MVP of the Maccabiah Games Rugby Event in 1989, 1993, and 1997. In the Maccabiah competition, we won gold in 1985; bronze in 1989; silver in 1993 and gold in 1997 (the first time South Africa did not win the tournament). The biggest honor was being elected as the Flag Bearer for the entire United States delegation in 1997. Unfortunately it was marred by a bridge collapse at the opening ceremony where some members of the Australia delegation died. In 2009 I came out of retirement at the age of 44 to represent the United States at the Maccabiah Games, winning a bronze medal. This culminated a 24 year career of playing at the Maccabiah Games, winning 2 Gold Medals, 1 Silver , and 2 Bronze Medals, and three MVP’s. I also toured South Africa in 1988 with the Pacific Coast Grizzlies, playing against the best teams in South Africa. My rugby career allowed me to play all over the world against international sides, and took me to places like Russia, Japan, Canada, South Africa, France, England, Israel, Scotland, and Bermuda I was inducted into the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 along with some of the best professional athletes in the United States, including Mark Spitz and Sandy Koufax amongst many other great Jewish sports stars. I also earned MVP of the Year award at the Santa Monica Rugby Club eight times and in 2006 was also inducted into that club’s Hall of Fame. I married my wife Karen in 1994, who I originally met in 1988 and we have three awesome kids, Scott 15, Jamie, 12, and Lindsay 9.

2) What makes rugby such a great sport? How does it compare to football?

Rugby is probably one of the most grueling sports in the world. It requires significant endurance and strength, as you have to play both offense and defense with no timeouts and very little stoppage of play. The very physical nature of the game creates an environment where no player can hide and the true character of each player comes out. hrough this test of will and courage, tremendous bonds are made with team mates and life long friendships are formed. Prima Donnas are not tolerated and are exposed through the demanding requirements of the game. Football is a very tough game as well. However it is a burst sport, where the maximum exertion is used in short furious bursts. The game has a tremendous amount of specialization, with a great deal of emphasis on each play. Rugby, while requiring a variety of different skills and physiques in different positions, is a game of continuous attrition where capitalizing on a teams weaknesses and mistakes through continuity of play and possession of the ball is the key to success. No time outs and no substitutes. That being said, I think it would have been fun to have played football. I think I would have liked it.

3) What can the sport do to get more national exposure?

With rugby having been added to the 2016 Olympic Games we are already starting to see a great deal of interest. Major networks like NBC are starting to televise more rugby and as we get closer to the Olympics we should expect to see much more. Now we have top athletes who have just missed the cut in the NFL or NBA, seeing rugby as a vehicle to continue their professional sporting careers and potentially be Olympians. The US national team is now starting to attract these top athletes more than ever before. Also with the tremendous commercial success and following of rugby outside of the US, and it’s inclusion in the Olympics, corporate sponsors are going to be eager to capitalize on the growth of the sport. There has also been a huge upsurge in the amount of youth and college Programs in the country, and that is ultimately where the growth will come from.

4) How was the experience of playing in the Maccabiah games?

My involvement in the games has had a profound effect on me. As a Jewish athlete playing a sport not usually played by Jews, it was a lonely place. There was always the sense that as a Jew you were not good enough and it was imperative to always prove myself that not only did I deserve to be playing, but that I was better. It seemed that I was always fighting the stereotype of the weak Jew who could not play sports. And then I went to the Maccabiah Games , and here there were thousands of Jewish athletes from all over the world , excellent athletes, and in some cases world-renowned Olympians , all with a commonality and shared experience. It was amazing to be with these great athletes, and feel proud to be with all these world class Jewish athletes. It felt like we were sticking it to anyone who ever tried to perpetuate the myth that Jews could not play sports and were fundamentally weak, especially with the games being held in Israel, in the midst of all their enemies. Having experienced the same feeling that other great Jewish athletes like Mark Spitz, Mitch Gaylord, Lenny Krayzelberg, Kerri Strug, Jason Lezak , all Great Gold medal winning Olympians, is truly life affirming, and having been selected as the US delegations flag bearer at the Opening Ceremonies in 1997 was a highlight of my sporting career.

5) What was it like being inducted into the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame?

It was surreal. Here I was, an immigrant from Johannesburg South Africa, being inducted into the company of some of the greatest American sporting figures in history. to be in the same company of Sandy Koufax, Hank Greenberg, Mark Spitz, Sarah Hughes, Jason Lezak, Red Auerbach, Marv Levy, Howard Kossell and so many more, is unreal to me. I am very proud that we have a Jewish Rugby player in the Hall of Fame as it gives our sport the recognition it deserves and in some way I am merely am representative of so many other great Jewish rugby players in the US, many of whom I was so lucky to play with over the years, and form lifelong friendships. Having many of my teammates from Santa Monica Rugby Club and the US Maccabiah team, come out to New York for the induction, as well as my family, was a great thrill. I think it is so important that young Jewish athletes can look at these inductees and realize that there are no limits to what they can achieve and that it does not have to come at the expense of their Jewish identity.

6) What are you up to these days?

On the personal side, I try and spend as much time with my family as possible. I have an amazing wife, Karen, who was a four time All American swimmer at college, my oldest son Scott is playing Football as a high school freshman, my middle son Jamie is also playing football now for his middle school team, and my 9 year old daughter is wonderful soccer player. I have coached all my kids and still coach my daughter. I have also been very involved in coaching youth rugby in the San Fernando Valley. I am actually distributing a great Rugby themed movie that a close rugby friend of mine wrote and directed. The movie will be launched through a very focused Internet campaign and initially distributed through online streaming and downloads. Anyone who watches the movie will earn a chance to win a free trip for two to New Zealand next year during the rugby world cup. The movie is called Play On and is available at www.playonthemovie.com. It is a very fun project and obviously a labor of love. Other than that I still play rugby every Sunday on the beach in Santa Monica , and squash. I am also a partner with a lifelong friend and business partner in a Private Equity Firm called The KJL Group.

Thank you to Shawn Lipman for helping us out and giving us some insight to your career and the sport.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
-Jeremy Fine
For More Info Check Out WWW.THEGREATRABBINO.COM

0 Comments — Leave your comment

September 5, 2010 | 9:37 pm

TGR Links Up With KosherHam.com

Posted by Jeremy Fine

All week long TheGreatRabbino.com is running a promotion with KosherHam.com. We are highlighting their sports themed shirts. Check them out!

0 Comments — Leave your comment