Western Pennsylvania Jewish Sports Hall of Fame continues support of young Jewish athletes

In an effort to promote the development of local young Jewish athletes, the Western Pennsylvania Jewish Sports Hall of Fame distributed approximately $32,000. The funds were delivered on May 3 to representatives from several organizations, including Community Day School, Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh and the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh.

Each year, the grants help cover the cost of athletic expenses such as equipment, uniforms and league fees, Hall of Fame treasurer Alan Mallinger said.

Since 1982, the volunteer-led organization has supported Jewish-related sports programs in western Pennsylvania and Israel. Along with providing financial assistance through various scholarships, the Hall of Fame has recognized hundreds of local Jewish individuals — including teens — who have bettered the region.

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During the organization’s annual celebration, President Beth Goldstein described the Hall of Fame as a reflection of some of the community’s defining qualities.

“For me, this organization represents the intersection of three things I care about: Pittsburgh, being Jewish and sports. There is something really special about celebrating all three in one place, surrounded by family, friends and a community that shows up for each other,” she said. “Everyone involved in putting this evening together has given their time and energy because they care deeply about honoring Jewish athletes and preserving these stories.”

Less a chance to regale old achievements than to propel future athletic accomplishments, the organization uses its annual event and resources wisely, Goldstein explained.

If the question is whether to spend money on an elaborate dinner or to give money to beneficiaries, there’s no debate; finding more ways to support the community and athletics programs in Israel is the right choice, she said.

While several hundred attendees enjoyed kosher cheese, crackers and fruit platters, Goldstein watched as past teammates — Jordan Marks, Leah Friedman and Katie Lederman — were inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Along with fellow athlete Aaron Wilf’s induction, recognition was bestowed on the late Edmund Rosenberg, former Pittsburgh JCC CEO Brian Schreiber and City Controller Rachael Heisler.

“To be here now, recognizing their achievements at this level, is incredibly rewarding and a reminder of just how strong and connected this community is,” Goldstein said.

Each year, the Hall of Fame celebrates area Jewish high school seniors for their accomplishments on and off the field with the Nathan H. Kaufman Scholastic Athletic Award. Scholarships in memory of Paul Bloom, Sol Levin, Jack Morris, Bob Goldstein and Shelly Goldstein are also bestowed annually to deserving student-athletes.

The funds, which are supported by various friends and family, help young people continue their athletic and educational journeys, Mallinger said.

This year, a new fund in memory of David Pober was announced at the May 3 gathering. Along with memorializing Pober, a Taylor Allderdice High School and University of Pittsburgh graduate, and former Hall of Fame board member who passionately promoted basketball, the fund will support programs for high school athletes in disadvantaged communities.

With hundreds of people attending the recent gathering, Mallinger praised community members and organizations that continue supporting the Hall of Fame’s mission.

“It shows a lot of trust in our organization, and it shows that we’re doing something right — that people want to be a part of it,” he said.

Goldstein agreed and offered special thanks to the first-timers.

“It’s great to have new people in the room each year,” she said. Their participation increases “our visibility and helps us continue our mission.” PJC

Adam Reinherz can be reached at areinherz@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.