The Hebrew Academy Varsity Lady Warriors were granted the amazing opportunity to host the nineteenth annual Hyman Galbut Basketball Tournament. This tournament is hosted by Hebrew Academy, with eight other teams from around the country invited to participate.
The Warriors enjoyed this weekend and fought tough opponents as a way to not only work together on the court but also strengthen their bonds off of the court. While the tournament featured plenty of basketball, there were plenty of other activities as well, such as team outings and fun meals.
On Wednesday morning, the tournament began with packing bags and arranging gifts for all of the guest teams. The girls then had some chill time before they went out for a team lunch at Bagel Boss on 41st street. Following this, the team went back to their houses to get ready for the special pep rally and Rosh Chodesh Variety show in the gym. After this, they played in the opening game of the shabbaton against Goldie Margolin from Memphis. Following the Warriors’ victory, many team members stayed to watch several games, while others went to bed to rest up for the long day ahead.
On Thursday, the Warriors played against Hillel from New Jersey. The Warriors’ strong efforts granted them the win, this being their second win of the tournament. Later that day, they then faced Rochelle Zelle from Illinois as their final regular game before the playoff games, and were able to secure the victory.
The Warriors clinched the first seed of the tournament! They went for a celebratory dinner at Rustiko and had to rest up to prepare for their next game versus Ulpanat Orot Friday morning.
With loud and enthusiastic fans, the Warriors defeated Ulpanat Orot for the entrance to the semi finals, which would be played Saturday night versus the SKA Sonics from the Five Towns.
Throughout the rest of the day, the Warriors watched other games and hung out with each other as well as players from the other schools, enjoying their time off until Saturday night.
A few of the girls went to eat some pre-shabbos food at Seventeen. Then, all of the teams went home to prepare for Shabbat.
Friday night davening began the restful and enjoyable Shabbat, with speeches from team captains Lizzy Ebner and Eliana Wolfson. Shabbat was very exciting, as each player of the tournament was randomly assigned to a table to meet people and enjoy a generous and delicious dinner at the Miami Beach JCC.
After dinner and singing, all of the tournament participants made their way to the field for Oneg.
Finally, the girls, safely guided by chaperones, headed to their host homes for the night.
Shabbat day began with a beautiful davening at Beth Israel followed by a nice Kiddush, Shiur, and lunch. After this, players were free for the rest of the day to socialize and rest up for the final games taking place on Saturday night.
Once Shabbat ended, the Warriors got ready for their big game to determine whether they played in the Championship game. Securing the win vs. SKA by nine points, the Warriors had the chance to face the Shalhevet Firehawks in the championship game at midnight--an opportunity the Lady Warriors haven’t had in a decade!
Although they fell short by three points, the Warriors played incredibly hard and fought until the very end. They had an incredible season. All of the basketball players feel very lucky to have been able to host this incredible tournament and enjoy their time as they competed fiercely.
Go Warriors!
By: Eliana Wolfson (11th)
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