Yechiel Weisstuch’s fourth summer on NCSY Kollel — and his second as a madrich — has been nothing short of epic. Hailing from Boca Raton, Florida, Yechiel is a proud graduate of Katz Yeshiva High School, spent two years learning in Yeshivat Shaalvim, and will be starting Yeshiva University this coming year.

This summer, Yechiel is leading the legendary Back Row Chaburah — a high-energy group that brings Torah, personality, and ruach straight to the heart of the Beis. Eli Lipman from West Orange, NJ, a student at Frisch, is a ball of energy who keeps things lively and engaging at all times. Donny Rosenrauch, also from West Orange and a Frisch student, pays close attention and consistently asks sharp, insightful questions that move the conversation forward. Yehuda Abrams from Chicago, IL, representing Fasman Yeshiva, brings good vibes and a steady presence that levels out the group and keeps the atmosphere balanced. Tuvi Bennett, from Cleveland, OH, and a Fuchs Mizrachi student, adds his great sense of humor and witty remarks, always bringing fun and flavor to the learning.

Together, they’re diving into sugyos that correspond to the brachos of Shemona Esrei — exploring topics like kavana in tefilla, kiddush Hashem, and bikkur cholim through both halachic and hashkafic lenses.

The Back Row Chaburah is off to a powerful start — and there’s no doubt they’re just getting warmed up.

Ezra Landa grew up in Bergenfield, New Jersey, and is fortunate to daven at Rabbi Neuburger’s shul there. He had the great privilege of attending Yeshiva University’s High School for Boys, also known as MTA. Ezra is currently between his third year in Sha’alvim and YU, where he will have the tremendous zechus of learning in Rav Twersky’s shiur. He has been remarkably fortunate to spend four summers on NCSY Kollel, with each year getting better and better.

This summer, Ezra is lucky to have a special Chaburah, with whom he sincerely appreciates both learning and spending time. First up is Abie Merzel, hailing from Yerushalayim, who is not only passionate about Beitar soccer, but also Torah, Eretz Yisrael, and many other things. Next is Hillel Gross, coming from the lovely town of Bergenfield, New Jersey, who quietly—but undoubtedly—understands and contributes a ton to the Chaburah every day. Then there’s Aryeh Leiber, a talmid of MAY, often seen as the father figure of the Chaburah (iykyk). We also have the privilege of learning with Netanel Greenstein, another MAY attendee who secretly wishes he lived in Alaska. Last, and perhaps even least, is Aharon Kramer from Beit Shemesh, Israel, whose love for the IDF and basketball doesn’t take away from his sincerity in growing over the summer.

The Chaburah is learning a variety of beautiful sugyas focused on exploring the beauty of מחלוקתים in ראשונים.

It has been an unbelievable summer so far, and there’s still so much more to look forward to!