March 15, 2012 | 7:50 am

Last Minute Final Four Picks From TGR “Experts”

Posted by Jeremy Fine

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We looked to some people from within the game for a little insight to help our readers. Here are some of their Final Fours.

Portland Assistant Coach Mike Wolf - Kentucky, Michigan State, Florida State, Kansas

Former Wash U Point Guard Sean Wallis - Kentucky, Louisville, North Carolina, Ohio State

Haverford Senior Guard Ian Goldberg - Missouri, Baylor, Ohio State, North Carolina

Host of “Jumpshots with Jasmine” Jasmine Marcus - Kentucky, Michigan State, Ohio Ststae, North Carolina

The Great Rabbino - Kentucky, Michigan State, Ohio State, North Carolina. UNC over MSU

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March 13, 2012 | 8:48 am

Interview: Ultimate’s Matt Baum

Posted by Jeremy Fine

1) Tell TGR a little bit about yourself?
My name is Matt Baum.  I am a 20 year old Jewish student at the University of Connecticut, and I grew up in New Rochelle, New York.  I began playing rec league basketball and youth league baseball at a young age, and I’ve always been a pretty athletic kid, but loved playing music more than anything.  I began taking piano lessons at a young age, and in elementary school began to play the saxophone.  I played sax all through middle school and high school, and I am now a Jazz Studies major at UConn.  I have also taught myself guitar, and I constantly think about music in everything I do.  Being brought up around sports though, I always had that athletic outlet in basketball and baseball.

2) When did you get involved with Ultimate Frisbee?
I actually began playing frisbee in middle school during lunch recess, but did not start playing ultimate until I got to high school.  My junior year of high school, I saw a poster for the start of an Ultimate Frisbee Club.  I went to a few meetings and practices, and immediately became obsessed.  I wasn’t great in high school, but it was a good way to start playing the sport.  I got involved with the Ultimate team at UConn (Our team name is GRIND) as soon as I began my freshman year, and have been playing ever since.  I also played for the club team “Slow Children” this past summer, which gave me a ton of experience with high level ultimate.

3) What is the American Ultimate Disc League? How did you get involved?
The AUDL is a new league that was recently formed, with the main goal of making Ultimate more accessible and spreading the sport to take it to new heights that the sport has never been to before.  The AUDL is doing a ton of promotion and marketing with the main goal of making the sport more mainstream than it has ever been before.  I got involved after hearing a little bit about it from my teammates, my coach, and other Ultimate players.  When I first heard about the league, I did not think too much of it.  I really did not think that it would be as big as it is today.  A few weeks ago, my UConn coach, Dan Saipher, insisted on a bunch of the UConn guys going to the open tryouts that the Connecticut Constitution were holding.  We had nothing to lose, so about fifteen of us went.  4 of us were invited to the second round of tryouts, and 3 of us were invited back to the third and final round of tryouts.  Those 3 players (Myself, Ben Weyers, and Kamil Skwarek) all ended up making the team.

4) What are the Connecticut Constitutions chances of winning it all?
I think that the Constitution’s chances of winning it all are really good!  Next to all of the pure athleticism and talent that we have, our team chemistry is like nothing I’ve ever been a part of before.  Every single guy on the team is incredibly nice, supportive of each other, and has a desire to win that is unparalleled by other athletes.  I could not think of a better and more talented group of guys to play with.

5) How can more people get involved?
More people can get involved by coming to some of the clinics that the Constitution will be holding throughout the season and by contacting the team HERE:

The absolute best way to get involved though is to come to a game.  Our schedule can be found HERE:

Our home field is Arute Field at Central Connecticut State University in New Britatin, CT.  Any other information about the team and league can be found on our website through one of the above links.

6) Where do you think the league will be in 10 years?
In ten years, I see the AUDL becoming huge.  I can see this league blowing up and become a national thing.  I’m thinking specials and full games covered on ESPN or some other national network.  It definitely has the potential to become that big.

7) What are your aspirations for yourself an team?
I always aspire to become a better player in every aspect, but as a team, I would love to see us win the championship in the inaugural season of the league.  I know that I am part of something special here, and I am really looking forward to an incredible experience.

8) Where can we find out more about AUDL?
People can find out more about the AUDL HERE.

Also, check out the Connecticut Constitution’s website HERE and be sure to follow the team on facebook as well.

Thank you to Matt. And Good luck.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

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March 8, 2012 | 12:45 pm

Farmar Hits Game Winner

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Last night Deron Williams gave up the ball and found Jordan Farmar for a huge game winner over the Clippers.Check it out below:

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March 8, 2012 | 12:39 pm

A TGR Purim

Posted by Jeremy Fine

In honor of Purim, I thought we would decide the best costumes for some of our Jewish sports heroes. Here is the list below:

Omri Casspi as an Israeli Solider - Who else would I want “defending” our country.

Jordan Farmar as the number 64 - The combined number of points he and Deron Williams scored Sunday night.

Lawrence Frank as Larry Brown - Maybe that would get the Pistons to win.

Jake Cohen as Stephen Curry - Hopefully leading Davidson to an Sweet Elite Eight.

Sam Fuld as Super Sam Fuld - He wears the cape the Rays gave out last year.

Theo Epstein as a Goat or Steve Bartman - Hopefully, the tradition continues.

Ryan Braun as a Syringe - Laughing at all his haters.

Igor Olshansky as Dennis Rodman - He already has the tattoos.

Julian Edelman as Wes Welker - Come on when Brady throw Welker the ball sometimes you think is Edelman.

Taylor Mays as Mr. Universe - He is just that strong.

Gabe Carimi as a Teddy Bear - After his injury he will need a lot of hugs.

Colt Cabana as Scotty Goldman - That would just be hysterical.

Let me know if you have any others. Chag Sameach! Happy Purim.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

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February 28, 2012 | 10:07 am

To Play or Not to Play

Posted by Jeremy Fine

This question of playing or not playing is usually discussed around Yom Kippur when Jews are usually, not always, let down by our Baseball Super Heroes who decide to play ball over praying in shul. But recently a different type of sitting out has caught the attention of Jewish sports fans everywhere. Should a Jewish team, and I could go as far as say any Jew, play competitive sports on Shabbat?

When I was a Sophomore in High School there was a lot, well at least internally, of hype for my basketball team.  We lined up with 3 Jewish kids 6"3 or taller. We had a point guard who started all year long as a Sophomore. And now it was Spring League. This was a time that for us private school kids, to get a shot at the big boys. We played against some of the better teams in the state and usually won a game here or there. But that year we found ourselves in the playoffs against Providence St. Mel, which at the time was a powerhouse. We upset them and it felt good. I know it was only Spring League, but to beat a team of that caliber at any time was unique for my small Jewish school. Our next game was scheduled on Shabbat and could not be moved. I remember this dilemma; go against school rules and play or adhere to my traditions and let all the hard work I put in go to waste. In the end we didn’t play in the game, we forfeited. It ate at me for days. But looking back at it, not playing had far more of an impact on my life than playing.

A few years ago, Solomon Schechter High School in Hartsdale found itself in an even bigger dilemma. Their game was scheduled immediately after Shabbat. The team chose to play in the game and form a Shabbaton at a nearby Hotel for family and friends of the players. They turned a tough situation into a learning opportunity.

But recently in the news several Jewish teams are having to end their seasons early. A few weeks ago Ida Crown Jewish Academy’s wrestling team became the first Jewish high school to win their regional. Read more HERE. But Coach Doug Klein was honest that his players, if they made it to the State Championship as a team or individual, would not compete on Shabbat. The story just happen again recently in Dallas. Beren Academy was recently forced to forfeit their season because they refused to play on Shabbat. Click HERE to read more.

While this problem is hurtful for our Day School students, who impart choose Day School so that they can participate in sports and other extra-curricular activities that don’t interfere with Shabbat and Holidays, it is also hard for public school students. Games, tournaments, and even practices are held on Shabbat which is the Jewish day of rest. It does not seem fair for any player or team to have to choose their religion or their sport.

What can be done? What should we do?

Well, for one thing I think we need to realize that the teams and individuals who make their Judaism a priority should be applauded. They are standing up for all of us. Secondly, I think it is time for States/Regions to begin to realize that Friday nights and Saturday afternoons are potential problems. If the NBA and NFL can have games listed as TBA, why can’t High School sports? Our States need to change the times of the games when this does occur and we as fans of Jewish sports and parents of these kids should advocate for that.

This problem will continue and its tough to swallow. We live in a world that should celebrate our abilities on the field or court and not jeopardize our faith and beliefs. We as a community need to work hard to not only set an example for our kids but also put them in the best situations to succeed. It is a big hope of mine, and in part one of the reasons that I write this blog, that our decisions are framed not in a Sports vs. Judaism way rather Sports and Judaism.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

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February 23, 2012 | 1:02 pm

Mid Way NBA Report

Posted by Jeremy Fine

The world has been taking by storm via Lin-sanity. But we here in the Jewish world, well, we are still waiting for something to spark. Last year, Mark Cuban assembled a NBA championship and won it over Micky Arison. This year we do not have anything near that great of a story….yet. Let’s take a look at how the Jewish NBA looks mid-way through the year.

Omri Casspi has found a home in Cleveland. The Cavs are 13-18…much better than last year. Casspi has started all 31 games he has played in. He is averaging 7.6ppg, 3.4rpg, and 1.4 assists. The Cavs are getting better and Casspi energy and consistency is a big reason why.

Jordan Farmar has shown some of the spark he gave Maccabi Tel Aviv. Farmar has given the Nets, who are getting better, a lift. Although recently sidelined by a groin injury he has averaged 10.5ppg, 3.3apg, and 1.6 rpg. His scoring has helped Deron Williams on the court and allowed him to take a breather mid-game.

The Detroit Pistons are bad. At 11-24, they are last in their division. Without any superstars it will be tough for Lawrence Frank to save the Pistons. Drafting Brandon Knight and Greg Monroe certainly are a start, but even if Rodney Stuckey continues his hot streak the Pistons are in for a long season.

Mark Cuban’s Mavs are 21-13, second in the Southwest behind the Spurs who have been on a roll. Could the Mavs come out of the West, sure. But they will need another ridiculous run and maybe one more piece to the puzzle.

Micky Arison’s Heat are tied for the best record in the NBA. Even without Dwayne Wade’s best season, his other investment in Lebron James has provided tremendous on the court performance. The Heat should coast to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Last but not least in David Kahn, GM of the Minnesota TimberWolves. A few years back people were ripping his draft choices. But with Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio shining it is hard to doubt his picks. Derrick Williams is a little bit of a project but if he pans out, those 3 could really be the future of basketball. Johnny Flynn might have been a bust but the T-Wolves are at .500 and 1 game out of a playoff spot.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

Check out more at www.TheGreatRabbino.com

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February 22, 2012 | 7:15 pm

Top Ten MLB Stories Going Into 2012

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Crazy to say but Spring Training is on deck. Last year saw the emergence of new Jewish ball players and most importantly MR. MVP Ryan Braun. But plenty of questions continue to swirl and TGR has decided to tackle them even before the season starts.

10) Minor Arms to Major Guns
Can both Michael Schwimer and Aaron Poreda make it back to the Major Leagues. Schwimer should eventually find his way onto the Phillies roster. But can Poreda, in his new Pirates uniform, find his way back to the bigs.

9) NY Infield
With Ike Davis healthy and Josh Satin being called up to the majors, can these two serve together as Met infielders? Health and opportunities, that is what these two need.

8) Feldman Back in Full
Scott Feldman made a comeback last year, enough to earn him the TGR Sandy Koufax Award. He showed signs of what made him so good a few years back, but this time out of the pen. What will 2012 hold for Feldman?

7) The Lavarnway
Yes Kelly Shoppach and Jarrod Saltalamacchia are higher on the depth chart, but is Lavarnway the Sax catcher of the future? I am excited to find out.

6) Kinsler the (Ball) Killer
Can Ian Kinsler continue to be one of the most valuable players in baseball. He runs, hits for power, hits for average, can hit in many spot in the lineup. He is a big reason the Rangers have been so successful the last two years. Can he, we are confident he will, be the great player he has been.

5) Super Sam Sighting
Last year Sam Fuld took baseball by storm. He was Chris Shelton hot. While his bat cooled down, his web gem highlight reel on ESPN did not. Can Fuld stay in the lineup just with his defense? Can the hot bat he swung at the beginning of last season find its way back with more longevity?

4) Boston Comebacks
Jewish fans (and Boston fans) want to know if Kevin Youkilis and Ryan Kalish can come back from their injuries. Obviously, Youk is more important to the Sawx success and Kalish has shown promise and without the moves we have grown to expect in Boston during the off-season, a healthy Kalish would be a welcomed addition.

3) Minnesota Marquis
Will a new team make Marquis the top tier pitcher the Nationals once paid him to be? Marquis will can a chance to help a team with who needs a consistent starter. He should be helped by the always defense first Twins.

2) Youngsters Ready to Grow
Will Satin, Davis, Lavarnway, Schwimer, Danny Valencia, and Paul Goldschmidt find their place in the the majors? Can they be significant players in the bigs?

1) Will Mr. MVP Become Mr. MVP*
The steroid buzz around Ryan Braun has one of the main MLB stories of the off-season. How will Braun handle it? Will he return in top shape? Will his protest reduce his 50 game suspension? He is a big reason the Jews have a renewed attention to baseball. We are rooting for him to come back strong.

Get ready for baseball season! And please, Adam Dunn hit the ball.

And Let Us Say…Amen.
- Jeremy Fine

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February 16, 2012 | 10:32 am

Best Jewish Sports Characters

Posted by Jeremy Fine

Ready for the Oscars? Today TGR looks at the Top 10 Jews to play a character/athlete in sports film. Some great films and characters to be considered, but we chose our favorites. On the side their will be a poll to vote for the number Jewish actor to play an athlete in a film.

Honorable mentions go to Jon Favreau as D-Bob in Rudy, Daniel Stern as Brickma in Rookie of the Year, and Rhea Perlman as Coach Phyllis Saroka in Sunset Park. Also big shout outs to two Jewish athletes who appear in movies. Bill Goldberg for is roles in Ready to Rumble and The Longest Yard and Kevin Youkilis for his role in Milk Money. And Jon Voight who is not Jewish but a huge fan of Israel for his role in Varsity Blues as Coach Bud Kilmer.

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