Farewell...for now

It is hard to imagine that another summer has passed, and that we are entering our final post on the blog. We certainly hope you have enjoyed this addition to our parent communication, and that the blog has provided a window into the great happenings here on the NCSY Kollel. Special thanks to Josh Weinberg, whose technical expertise, creativity and vision have enhanced our media all summer long.

It has been an incredibly enjoyable and productive summer for all of us here. We look forward to continuing the wonderful relationships that have been formed. We are always looking to improve the program, and all feedback- both positive and negative- is encouraged. The NCSYers spent time on Monday completing evaluations and we will be carefully reviewing them to see what we have done well and what we can do better. Please feel free to share any thoughts with us at ncsykollel@yahoo.com.

As we sign off, please enjoy a final video clip of summer highlights. Thank you!

Sunday: August 8

After all the fanfare of Shabbat and the Motzai Shabbat mega-events, we made every effort to spend Sunday, our last full day together, on as regular a schedule as possible. That meant regular shiurim and learning throughout the day, and ending with Torah on our lips. Of course, the emotions were high for the final installments of each of the different aspects of out learning program, and that was certainly reflective of the incredible growth over the summer. Every Beit Medrash should be left (if and when leaving is required) with such bittersweet feelings and such reluctance!

In the afternoon, it was time to wrap tings up on the court. There were still champions to be crowned, and all start games to be played, Kollel style. The “Second Chance” Tournament reached an exciting conclusion. Rabbi Lebowitz was denied his second title of the summer, and his squad fell to the appropriately named Team 1. Congratulations to Seth Grossman, Yaakov Danishefsky, Yitz Landa, Avi Lerer, Michael Berkowitz, Jonathan Packer, Josh Steinreich and Alex Landsman!

The hockey season drew to a close with an impressive performance by Rabbi Bronfeld’s team. They received stellar goal play from Yoni Jaroslawicz and a hat trick from Avi Margulies and posted a 3-0 victory. Congrats to Avi, Yoni, Rabbi Bronfeld, Avi Berkovits, Yitzchak Ginsberg, Zack Burak, Tzvika Poleyeff, Eli Rosenberg, Chaim Rosensweig, and Leor Rapps! There was plenty more fun and sports action. Eitan Jacob earned the title of Three Pojnt Shooting Champion, besting impressive groups of shooters for the crown.

The Sports Staff proved to be the best of the best, by edging the madrichim in the all star championship. And our always-popular “Around the World” games were once again a real highlight. This round robin all star tournament links guys from different years but the same schools are geographical areas. This year, the always strong MTA squad was bounced early. DRS, despite the sentimental push of Rabbi Kaminetsky playing alongside his son and students, also fell in round one. That left the NY/NJ all-stars in a winner take all battle with the World Wide team. In a minor upset, NY/NJ proved victorious and a great time was had by all. Another summer of NCSY Kollel sports was in the books.

The learning of the last day was awesome. There were a few special highlights, starting with a unique “Achdut Seder” in the afternoon. For this learning session we simply randomized the lists of every NCSYer and staff member and created new chavrusa match ups for the entire groups. Even for a short while, the opportunity to connect with a new person and learn together was valuable. Rabbi Cohen wrapped up the program with a short shiur on the Halachic power of Eretz Yisroel.

And the final night of learning was incredible. Chaburas held their final full sessions late into the night. Well past midnight we celebrated with a special group of NCSYers who devoted time each night to learning Masechet Makkot and completed the entire Masechta by the end of the summer. Led by madrich Yosef Miller, they led a siyum that put a charge into the entire group. Mazal Tov to Yaakov Schiff, Netanel Rosnzweig, Betzalael Cohn and Shlomo Landesman on a job very well done!

Shabbat: August 7

The last Shabbat on the Kollel is always something special , and in many ways indescribable. The Shabbat stands apart in time, with an equally emphasis on the past and the future. It’s energy comes first from six weeks of intense study and achdut, and draws on the many accomplishments of the summer. At the same time, the focus is also on the future, and giving a boost for the days and weeks to come.

The Ruach was absolutely incredible. Rabbi Kaminetsly’s beautiful tunes for Kballat Shabbat set a clear tone, and the meals were rousing affairs that involved and inspired practically every member of the program. Long time NCSY Kollel veterans were hard pressed to remember a Friday Night Tisch with more enthusiasm and spirit. We heard from Rabbi Freedman and from Rabbi Turetsky who inspired with both words and song.

In an increasingly popular Kollel tradition, many of the NCSYers capped the night with post-Tisch Tisch events, joining with guys from the same dorm on our campus, from the same school in the the US, or any number of other group affiliations. These gatherings offered more focused and practical suggestions for keeping the Kollel experience vibrant when we leave the program.

Shabbat morning tefilot were led by Dani Bauer and Rabbi Freedman. There were various shiurim, chavrusas, and chaburas throughout the day that provided some formal learning and grounding. Everything culminated in our Shalosh Seudos program. The singing was out of this world, and reflected clear and heartfelt tefilot of both individuals and the group as a whole. Rabbi Lebowitz closed things with powerful and poignant words of inspiration. He spoke of identity and self-discovery, particularly through learning and performance of mitzvot. His remarks clearly resonated with the group, and gave a great lift at Shabbat’s end.

Motzai Shabbat was an incredible celebration of an unbelievable summer. First, we had our summer end melava malka. The event was marked by heartfelt thanks to all of the devoted members of our staff for their tireless efforts. There was also some quality entertainment from a group of madrichim who used humor and acting talent to conjure up some of the summer’s most memorable moments. The closing video really wrapped things up beautifully, and provided a powerful glimpse at some amazing achievements.

And the night was not over yet. The kumsitz turns the spotlight on individual NCSYers whose experiences were representative of the groups as a whole. Together with the beautiful singing, it is an unforgettable night that frames the summer and leaves an indelible impression.

Friday: August 6

There was an unmistakable buzz of excitement throughout the campus Friday. The primary source of this was, of course, the anticipation for our final Shabbat together. Whether in Beit Meir or in the streets of Yerushalayim, the NCSYers felt what an Erev Shabbat is all about.

The sports leagues provided a different kind of thrill. Both the main playoff bracket and the “Second Chance” Tournament staged great games, played on an exceptionally high level. In the main bracket, we reached the finals and witnessed a championship game worthy of the great competition all season. To no one’s surprise, Team 7 charged into the finals on the back of David Schmeltzer, one of the real shining stars of our Sports Staff. With the clutch shooting of Akiva Lautman and all around strong fundamental play from the whole team, this squad had led the standings all season and were the strong favorites going into the final day.

On the other side of the court, stood Team 3. Although they had amassed an impressive regular season record, they were not regarded in all corners as serious contenders for the title. Lacking overpowering star power, Team 3 relied on superior teamwork and major contributions from the entire roster.

As you might have guessed, the game was thrilling from the start. Each team had its runs and big shots and things were nip and tuck the entire way. Late in the contest, Menachem Seleski caught fire and sent the crowd into a frenzy with three consecutive long range three pointers. Despite a frantic effort by Team 7 at game’s end, the upset was completed and Team 3 emerged as Kollel champions 2010. Amazingly, team captain Josh Friedman was held to just 3 points, but he was more than content to set up the NCSYers on his team and to watch them lead the charge to victory. Congratulations to all players on all teams on a great summer of ball, and especially to our league champs: Josh Friedman, Corey Fuchs, Dovid Tauber, Michael Kirshblum, Aaron Joseph, Menachem Seleski, and Ariel Felsen.

Thursday: August 5

The closer we get to the end of the summer, the more the focus turns to the Beit Medrash and our learning. This was certainly the case on Thursday, as all of the shiurim and chaburas saw a marked raising of intensity to end the week.

Nowhere was this more evident than in the inspiring late night Mishmar program. Even without the midnight ”extras” the simple sight of over 150 NCSYers and staff sitting and learning was awesome. This was free time, in the summer, and there was no end to the learning in sight. And the extras didn’t hurt either. The Thursday night Mishmar was co-sponsored by TLN, the High School learning wing of Yeshiva University and the Center for the Jewish Future. For those not learning with a Chavruta there was a special shiur given by Rav Sobolofsky. TLN then made a presentation about learning opportunities in during the school year. This was followed by a one of a kind joint siyum made by Rabbi Lebowitz and Sammy Aronson. Rabbi Lebowitz recalled a late Friday night on the Kollel over a decade ago, when he and some other NCSYers committed to learning two mishnayot a day after the summer. Last night, Rabbi Lebowitz made his eleventh consecutive siyum on a seder mishnayot on the anniversary of that night. To drive the point home, Sammy Aronson joined Rabbi Lebowitz to make his own siyum on seder Nezikin, after having followed, on his own, a similar schedule this past year. It was a special moment for all of us, and a tremendous source of inspiration. The celebration, with TLN sponsored KFC wings, was worthy of the occasion!

Even the sports schedule was consistent with the learning theme. That was due to the annual Rebbe-Talmid game, on center stage. Before a large and boisterous crowd, the Rebbe team won for the third consecutive year, earning a fair amount of respect in the process. Led by Rabbi Schneider, Rabbi Resnick, and Rabbi Lebowitz, the experience, size and poise of the older Rabbis proved to be too much for the skilled and athletic NCSYers. Win or lose, it was a great Kollel moment and a fun game for participant and spectators alike.

Wednesday: August 4

On Wednesday, so many aspects of the NCSY Kollel experience came together to form one of the most exciting, productive, and memorable days of the summer.

After an hour of Chaburas in the morning, we set out on our annual Yom Chessed. The goal of these Chessed trips is, of course, primarily to give and to help a few special organizations in their wonderful work. At the same time, these volunteer hours fit perfectly into the educational goals and philosophy of the NCSY Kollel. Through the Chessed trips we can continue to broaden the perspective of the NCSYers, and to offer practical experience in applying the lessons and values of the Beit Medrash to the outside world.

Many of the NCSYers spent the day with Yad Ezra and/or Yad Eliezer. Both of these groups deal with poverty in Israel, and we were able to help in food packing and organizing the warehouses. While there, we received a powerful glimpse into the struggles of some of the less fortunate in our community and we were shown how some are working to alleviate financial stress and pressure from the poor.

We sent a group to Tel Aviv, to help in an innovative project that allows major Israeli companies to employ disabled individuals. On this day, we worked side by side with some blind or hearing-impaired individuals, and helped them on a Cellcom assembly line. It was an extremely meaningful interaction.

Once again we teamed with the “Standing Together” group, to deliver packages and pizza to IDF soldiers on duty. The most exciting part of this effort was the real conversations between the soldiers and the NCSYers. Just seeing an active military base provides a certain reality check about Israel’s position, and speaking to the soldiers who are on the front lines drove that message home powerfully.

Our final group spent the day at the legendary home of the Machlis family in Yerushalayim. Each Shabbat, hundreds of visitors find their way to the Machlis’ for a hot meal and a warm word. We were able to assist in some of the Shabbat preparations, and also to help in some larger projects in the house to allow for even more and greater Hachnasat Orchim. It was exhausting work on a brutally hot day, but very, very rewarding.

Our return to Beit Meir was highlighted by one of the great Sports days of the summer beginning with the annual three-point shootout.

In addition to the continuation of the playoffs, we gathered everyone to the court for the debut of Dodgeball on the NCSY Kollel. This was no ordinary game, as close to 200 participants packed the court for the ultimate NCSYer vs. Staff showdown. Under the masterful direction of Sports Staff stalwart Mayer Stromer, the game provided amazing fun and bonding. We played two games, with each side winning one. Sunday will see the continuation of this new Kollel tradition.

Tuesday: August 3

After a robust morning and afternoon of learning, NCSY Kollel took to the courts, as playoff week got fully underway. This year’s intramurals, in both Basketball and Hockey were hotly contested from the start, and the playoffs got underway amidst great fanfare and anticipation.
Remarkably, the increased level of intensity is accompanied by an equally increased level of commitment to proper play and strong middot. After a summer of learning together, we stress the importance of using all of the athletics as a vehicle towards stronger character and religious growth, not- God forbid- the opposite. In that way, the playoffs become the ultimate showcase of what NCSY Kollel sports are all about.

Of the 24 basketball teams, 12 advanced to the playoffs. For the other 12, we conduct a “Second Chance” playoff tournament that insures no one’s season ends too early in the summer. Besides providing some additional games and entertainment, there are quite a few teams that actually rally behind the Second Chance Tournament, and play some of their finest ball of the summer.

A great mini-Tiyul to Emek HaEla and the scene of Dovid HaMelech’s battle with Goliath rounded out the day’s options.

The night program on Monday was truly special. We conducted our annual “Leil Iyun”, where we take a break from our regular learning schedule to offer shiurim and workshops on a particular theme of interest to the NCSYers. This year’s Leil Iyun was centered on “Modern Media.” There was a session dealing with proper Internet usage, including guidelines for appropriate usage and how much time online is healthy and productive. Rabbi Kaminetsky addressed a topic especially near and dear to his heart, in a lively presentation on music, both secular and religious. He explained the potential of music for both good and bad, and provided insights into the history of music and the present day industry. Rav Sobolofsky gave a whirlwind tour of Halachic issues that have arisen with the advancement of modern technology. His riveting shiur touched upon numerous questions in Hilchot Shabbat, E-commerce, and globalization.

Rabbi Lebowitz dealt with relationships in the age of e-mail, texting, and Facebook, while Chesky Gewirtz spoke about questions of Identity in the modern world. Finally, Yehuda Turetsky discussed the influence of television and movies on our society.

Along with the media topics, we also presented a “Senior Seminar.” This was a panel discussion led by recent High School graduate speaking to the incoming seniors. The main goal was to identify the challenges unique to senior year, and to give strategies and suggestions on how to maximize the potential of the next 10-12 months. The program was informative and engaging, and extremely well received.

The Leil Iyun provides a break from the regular NCSY Kollel routine, and allows for learning of topics that the NCSYers find to be exciting and important. Moreover, the Leil Iyun helps create a framework whereby NCSYers can appreciate the relevance of the Halachic process to all aspects of their lives.

Monday: August 2

Spotlight: Chaburas

There are many different formats for the learning on the NCSY Kollel. None are more effective or appreciated than the afternoon Chaburas.

Each Chabura is generally for 90 minutes, from after the post-Mincha announcements until the afternoon break. The Chaburas are made up of 4-6 NCSYers, led by a madrich. Each madrich is a hybrid between a camp counselor and a learning rebbe. Outside of Chabura he is responsible for the NCSYers in his group, from attendance, to physical comfort and everything in between. Inside Chabura, the madrich is the ringleader of some very spirited and interactive learning sessions.

Chaburas are designed to be somewhat less formal than typical classroom learning environments. There are more questions and more give and take, with frequent tangents and discussions. One of the primary goals is to get everyone involved and active. The size of the group and format of the learning lend themselves to this.

The Chaburas are a social experience as well. On the peer-to-peer level, chaburas are utilized to help form new relationships with like-minded NCSYers. No chabura has more than two students from the same high school, and expert madrichim can use the camaraderie and good will to foster extremely positive friendships.

Above all, is the powerful bond that is formed between the NCSYers and their madrichim. There is no better building block for long and positive relationships than the study of Torah. Careful analysis of a difficult text will often spill over to a discussion outside of chabura, on any number of life issues facing the NCSYers. Madrichim are trusted and respected and ideal confidants.

CLICK HERE TO SEE PICTURES OF THE DIFFERENT CHABURAS

Sunday: August 1

The week got off to a flying start on Sunday, with two much anticipated events providing thrills and excitement.

After a strong morning of learning, we headed out for our annual Chabura Trips. Each chabura traveled to different locations of their choosing, ranging from bowling to flag football, the Old City to scavenger hunts, Mea Shearim to audiences with Rabbeim of the Madrichim. Whatever the itinerary, the outings helped to reinforce some of the basic strengths of the Chaburas. For one thing, the Chaburas are designed to impact the NCSYers far beyond the four walls of the classroom or Beit Medrash. In this sense, time spent as a chabura outside of the context of formal learning is particularly valuable.

In addition, chabura trips are just plain fun. And they are part of the great success the chaburas have in making learning more palatable and enjoyable.

The chabura trips led into one of the real highlights of the Kollel calendar- Yom NCSY.

The significance of Yom NCSY can be measured on two scales. First, is the quality of the programming for the event. This year we were privileged to hear from Mr. Natan Sharansky. He is currently head of the Jewish Agency, but his personal history and accomplishments provided much stronger credentials. He spoke powerfully of the everlasting connection between the Jewish people and the land of Israel, and recalled his own longing for the Jewish homeland while a political prisoner in communist Russia.

One of the most powerful elements of the program was the presentation from Sgt. Benjamin Anthony, an officer in the IDF. Seargant Anthony offered an insider’s perspective on the challenges faced by the Israeli Army and importance of standing side by side with the soldiers. He completely captivated the audience with his stories of life on the front line, and the NCSYers were very moved and inspired by the entire talk.

Of course, there was more to the program than just the orations. There was great food, rousing video presentations, short rallies for each individual program, and, to top the evening off, an incredible concert featuring the music of Shlomo Katz and Chaim Dovid.

But even with a less sensational schedule, Yom NCSY would be quite worthwhile. At its heart, it is most important simply as an assembly of teens from North America and Israel totaling close to 1000 strong. This gathering is exceedingly inspirational, and a cause for great celebration within our community. It was a real showcase for the great work being done by NCSY Summer Programs, and we were proud to be a part and contribute. It was especially gratifying to spend another evening with our good friends on TJJ Ambassadors, and to continue the development of the relationships that had been formed during their stay with us at the Kollel.

Thursday: July 29

It would be impossible to single out a single highlight from Thursday. From early in the morning to late at night, there was a constant flow of excitement and energy, with special events that were once-in-a-summer experiences.

In the morning we embarked on the annual Shiur Trips. The hardest work in learning takes place each morning, and these outings were a deserved reward for jobs well done. Shiurim created their own itineraries, with swimming and good food featured prominently in many of them. Above all, these trips enhance the relationships already formed between Rebbe and Talmid. The less formal, out of Shiur interactions complement the more formal learning and educational achievements beautifully. And beyond any elaborate explanations - the trips were just good fun!

The sports schedule was supplemented by the thrilling conclusion of our 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament (advanced division). Each team in the finals boasted superior teamwork and impressive skill. A huge crowd gathered and was delighted by a spirited game that was completely up for grabs until the final moments. At that point the greater size of Rabbi Lebowitz, Josh Freedman, and Zev Miller proved to be too much for their opponents to handle, and a hard earned championship was theirs.

Most inspiring was a first time program that was extremely successful. Over the course of the day (in place of regular chaburas in the afternoon and then again late at night) we spotlighted various NCSYers with interesting stories to learn from. In the afternoon, we first heard from Sammy Aronson and Nathan Kohn-Magnus. Sammy and Nathan captivated the rest of the Kollel with vivid descriptions of their experiences in public high schools. They also shared their observations on the occasional insularity of the Orthodox world and how it is perceived from the outside. From the quality and quantity of follow up questions from their peers, it was very evident that Sammy and Nathan’s words hit their mark.

Next, we had the pleasure of hearing from four of the NCSYers who have made aliyah and currently reside in Israel. Yoni Alter, Shlomo Berman, Bezalel Cohn, and Alex Yudin each related their histories and challenges, and offered vivid descriptions of life in the Holy Land. Their passion and love for Israel was absolutely contagious, and provided much to think about.

Finally, late Thursday night, we heard a mesmerizing presentation from Ben Auerbach. Ben has Tourette’s Syndrome, and he courageously detailed his experiences. It was a most inspiring talk, and the emotional and rousing standing ovation he received at its conclusion was an accurate indication of how well it was received.

The cumulative effect of these programs was a greater appreciation for each other, and a deeper sensitivity to the people around us. We ended the day more aware and contemplative than we started.

The day (and week) ended with a late night mishmar program with the participation of well over 100 of the NCSYers. When all was said and done, and the dust settled on another fantastic week on the NCSY Kollel, we were in the Beit Medrash with the focus squarely on learning.

Wednesday: July 28

Wednesday was action packed with a stream of activity from beginning to end. The afternoon sports schedule was dominated by the exciting continuation of the 3 on 3 Tournament. In the intermediate bracket, a worth champion was crowned, as Josh Zlotnick (Dorm Counselor), Judah Gavant and Kobi Rappaport prevailed over Arie Hizkya, Zach Stern, and Yanky Krinsky in a tight encounter. The advanced bracket progressed all the way to the championship game, where Eitan Jacob, Evan Genakowski, and Yoni Alter pulled off a string of upsets to meet the big favorites, Rabbi Lebowitz, Josh Freedman, and Zev Miller. The much anticipated championship game will be held on Thursday.

For those who had tasted defeat already on Monday, there were a slew of attractive options. On campus there was the normal swimming, pick up games, and computer room. In addition, there was a spirited Roller Hockey tournament, taking advantage of the quiet league schedule.
Off campus, we ran flag football in Yerushalayim, and a fantastic mini tiyul, as well. The mini Tiyul visited Kever Rachel, before continuing on the Naot Factory Outlet in Gush Etzion. It was a fun filled afternoon with something for everyone.

At the beginning of night seder, we had the bittersweet experience of wishing Rav Schachter a farewell. On the one hand, it was sad to see Rav Schachter go, and his presence will most certainly be missed. At the same time, his departure provided us with an opportunity to reflect on his impact on the Kollel and to appreciate the incredible three weeks we shared with him. Rav Schachter addressed the Kollel one final time, exhorting us to pursue serious learning, regardless of our chosen future professions. He also expressed to the group how valuable learning can be during free time, and how impressed he was with the accomplishments over the summer. Following his remarks, we danced him out of the Beit Medrash. It was one of the more emotional moments of the summer.

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Spotlight on...Sports

NCSY Kollel is almost as famous for its sports as it is for its learning. The sports leagues and tournaments are an integral part of the program, and provide both entertainment and educational value.

What makes the games so great? On the most basic level, the quality of play and efforts of our tireless sports staff make for competitive and very enjoyable competition. There is a great buzz of activity every afternoon for the intramural contests in hockey and basketball. The daily posting of schedules, standings and stats are a highlight of each Kollel day. The courts themselves are top notch, with the special added bonus of being situated with a backdrop of the beautiful and inspiring Judean Hills. The regular sports are supplemented by special events and tournaments, like this week’s 3 on 3 or the soccer day in the first week.

Few things bring High School guys together like sports. Many of the deep bonds and relationships formed over the summer are rooted in interactions in the games. Certainly, NCSYers learn each other’s names and introduce themselves in this context.. The level of staff participation, in the same leagues as the NCSYers, provides another venue for natural and healthy bonding.

Perhaps most importantly, the courts are considered extensions of our Beit Medrash. Every game is a learning opportunity, and it is not at all uncommon for NCSYers to reflect after the summer and consider the lessons learned while playing to be the most valuable of all. We emphasize proper middot and respect from day 1. Our commissioners, sports staff, and madrichim reinforce these values every day. The intensity of the games is balanced by an equally strong emphasis on playing the right way.

Tuesday: July 27

This week’s tiyul day presented incredible options that sent the NCSYers all around the country. The choices were varied, and the day’s greatest challenge was choosing from amongst the tempting possibilities.

For the truly intrepid, there was the awesome and imposing Nachal Darja. In addition to the stunning beauty and pure excitement of the hike, Darja provides the ultimate in team building and bonding. The precipitous drops and arduous climbs are not easily navigated solo. The NCSYers needed to help each other get through the canyon and rely on each other on each rope and ladder. Darja challenges hikers like no other tiyul we run, and provides unparalleled thrills and feelings of accomplishment.

On the other side of the spectrum, we had a visit to the famed “Dialogue in the Dark” (Blind Museum) experience, followed by a tour of Bnei Brak. This option required none of the physical exertion of Darja, but was equally - if not more - rewarding. At the Blind Museum, visitors join a tour of every day life activities in complete darkness. Their guides are all visually impaired, either completely or partially blind, and the encounter is unforgettable. The museum provides a fresh and striking perspective on people with disabilities, and is one of the more sought after tours in Israel.

Bnai Brak is another must-see venue to appreciate the quality of scholarship and erudition in today’s Torah world. In addition to a general tour, we were able to meet with Rav Kahaneman and Rav Tzuriel. These meaningful sessions made an indelible impression on all.

Our third option started ordinarily enough, with a few morning hours of fun at the beach. From there it was down to Be’er Sheva for a tour of the Israeli Air Force Museum. But the real fun of this trip was in the final stop, the Alpaca Farm deep in the heart of the Negev Desert. Alpaca’s are similar to llamas, and we had group challenges in herding and communicating with them. It was great and unique- and a great end to the day.

Monday: July 26

There are numerous learning highlights over the summer, both on the group and individual levels. There are certain momentous shiurim that always stand out, and a myriad of quieter moments in the Beit Medrash when a climactic moment can occur. With regard to intensity and emotion, nothing really rivals Tisha B’Av, with the possible exception of our last Shabbat and closing programs. But when it comes to sports, our annual 3 on 3 Basketball tournament stands alone. With its dizzying pace, extraordinarily high level of participation, and thrilling moments, the tournament energizes the Kollel and brings people together like nothing else. In the 3 on 3 game, each player shares in team’s fortune, more so than in our regular league games.

This year, in an effort to generate even more excitement and fun, there was a full festival coinciding with the games. Free popcorn, slushies and Cotton Candy, wiffle Ball and Chabura Line-Up, innovative challenges and contests, live music and great giveaways all helped create an atmosphere like nothing the Kollel had ever seen. Rabbeim and their families joined the fun, and over 300 people participated in the day’s events.

And, of course, there were the games. All courts were in action, often with spectators lining up rows deep. There were the usual array of scintillating performances, buzzer beating shots, and crowd-pleasing upsets. The tournament consisted of two divisions, with the NCSYers choosing the level of competition they wanted. This also helped achieve maximum involvement for all.

By day’s end, we had whittled things down to 8 teams in the advanced bracket, and 4 in the intermediate bracket. The tournaments were headed to thrilling conclusions, and the positive affects will be felt for a long time to come.

TJJ/Kollel Recap

After describing the excitement of our time with TJJ Ambassadors last week, we thought you would appreciate some of the sights and sounds of our interaction. Enjoy!

Sunday: July 25

Spotlight on Night Seder

As we enter into the second half of the summer, new choices were made for our innovative and unique model for nighttime learning. In addition to the very popular chavruta hour, when NCSYers have great freedom to explore areas of learning of their own choice (often with an older staff member to guide them), the anchor of our learning day is the night shiur program. These shiurim benefit from two main catalysts.

First, like the chavruta hour, there is complete autonomy on the subjects learn. NCSYers choose shiurim, all specially designed for the High School yoing men, in a wide range of fascinating and engaging topics. For some, this means in depth Gemara methodology, or a more basic crash course in textual skills. For many others, this is the time of day to turn to more philosophical or inspirational material.

Even within this category, there is a further range of styles and approaches, some emphasizing the more intellectual and rational, while others stress the more spiritual and mystical. Of course, there is halacha and Tanach offered as well, and even shiurim in Ivrit. The obvious advantage of this format is the fact that NCSYers bring more of their own motivation level, and come to the shiurim more focused, with their curiosity already piqued. Perhaps equally important, the makeup of the shiurim allows for like-minded NCSYers to study in unison, with much less distraction. This energy helps create a winning environment for enjoyable and productive learning.

Second, of course, is the unparalleled quality of the night instructors. The strength of this lineup is truly spectacular. Our own Roshei Yeshiva top the list, engaging in direct Talmud Torah with the NCSYers. These are special and potentially life-altering interactions.

It is not at all unusual to see follow up questions from one of these shiurim spill over into the Beit Medrash late at night or beyond. Despite frequent requests from staff, we limit the attendance to NCSYers, so that the give and take of the shiur is theirs alone. In addition, top educators from around Israel join us at night. These are teachers experienced in reaching a wide range of personalities and levels of motivation. NCSYers often leave these shiurim truly amazed and exhilarated at the quality of learning. The night shiurim follow a long and exhausting day. To witness this caliber learning at such a point in the day is a real inspiration.