Chaburah Spotlight: Moshe Spirgel
Moshe Spirgel is attending NCSY Kollel for the first time this summer. Moshe attended SAR for high school, followed by two years at Reishit. After his time at Reishit, he began YU in their post-Pesach program and will continue at YU this fall.
Moshe’s chaburah includes an incredible group of guys: Avinaom Rahmani (Woodmere, DRS), Avi Paritzky (Woodmere, DRS), Ami Kieffer (Boca Raton, Katz), Michael Schnur (Hillside, JEC), and Dovid Wiesel (Edison, TABC). Early in the summer, Moshe’s chaburah discovered that they can beat any chaburah in 5-on-5 basketball.
While these guys excel on the courts, they certainly shine in the beis medrash as well. Every afternoon, they can be found in the back of the beis medrash learning about how to integrate sports into their avodas Hashem. Currently, they are studying the halachic ramifications of moving down at a sports game, always asking the right questions to deepen their understanding.
Moshe and the boys have had an amazing summer so far, learning a lot, and they’re excited for the growth that awaits them in the final stretch of the summer.
Chaburah Spotlight: Ari Sher
Hailing from Fair Lawn, NJ, Ari Sher is making his Kollel debut this summer as a madrich. His journey began at TABC; Ari then took his talents to Mevaseret for two years, followed by Yeshiva of Greater Washington. Now, he is preparing for his first zman at Rabbeinu Yitzchok Elchonon (YU) this fall!
With great Siyata Dishmaya, Ari leads an amazing group of guys eager to grow in their avodas Hashem. Natan Abicidan and Meir Elkaim bring incredible out-of-town energy to the chaburah, hailing all the way from Montreal’s Hebrew Academy. From Cleveland, Ohio, and Missouri Torah Institute, Wyatt Sanders knows how to lock in for learning. Lastly, from Ramaz, we have Si Heyman, a serious mevakesh who is always looking to improve his middos in a very real way.
The chaburah explores daily halachos and activities central to a Yid’s life, uncovering meaningful lessons that Hashem asks us to live by. From the moment we wake and say Modeh Ani, to Talmud Torah, Tefillah, and concluding the day with Shema, deepening our appreciation transforms our relationship with Hashem. With these profound messages, Ari hopes to highlight the undeniable truth that every Yid can achieve greatness and develop a deep relationship with Hashem.
This chaburah has really come together as a group of guys looking to grow closer to one another and to Hashem. They are proud of the learning and great chills they’ve had so far, and are excited for the rest of the summer and all that it has to offer.
Chaburah Spotlight: Eliyahu Klein
Eliyahu Klein, a first-time madrich on NCSY Kollel, has assembled an incredible chaburah that is making waves this summer. With a diverse group of dynamic and talented guys, this chaburah has been thriving both on and off the court, making it a summer to remember. Eliyahu, currently in his second year of Beis Medrash at Yeshiva of Far Rockaway, is especially excited as this is his first summer on NCSY Kollel.
Moshe Avraham (Avi) Hillelshon from the Five Towns, NY, is a sharp thinker with a keen interest in current events. Avi is never shy about sharing his opinions, which often lead to thought-provoking discussions. He’s known for challenging the chaburah in ways that make everyone think more deeply about the material they’re learning. Eytan Avraham Schussheim from Bergenfield, NJ, is the chaburah’s sports star. He’s been saving the team from defeat in the “Chabura Games” with his impressive athletic skills and competitive spirit, consistently scoring over 20 points in league games. Eytan’s quieter personality belies his fierce determination. Yehuda Aryeh (Shreck) Shreck from the Five Towns, NY, is deeply connected to his family and friends, bringing a caring and thoughtful presence to the chaburah. Yehuda has a unique hobby of collecting menorahs, and his love for the NBA’s Minnesota team adds a fun twist to the group dynamics. Yitzchak Yiecheil (Chak) Wertentheil from Bergenfield, NJ, is always punctual and eager to learn. His frequent trips to Geula and his passion for high-level learning have earned him the nickname “Mir Wannabe” within the chaburah. Chak is also a master of creating WhatsApp stickers, adding humor and creativity to the group chat.
This chaburah is not just about fun and games; they are deeply immersed in their learning. They are currently exploring the sugyos of פת and בישול עכו”ם, with a focus on understanding the halachic process from the פסוקים all the way to the שלחן ערוך. Their learning method is collaborative, with chavrusa study followed by group discussions, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and fully grasps the material. The goal of the chaburah is not only to cover the material but to develop a true appreciation for how halacha evolves and is applied. This deeper understanding of Torah law has been a central theme throughout their studies, and it’s clear that the guys are growing both individually and as a group.
It’s been a great time during chaburas on NCSY Kollel, and the chaburah is only getting stronger as the summer progresses. With such a dynamic and dedicated group, there’s no doubt they will continue to thrive and achieve great things together!
Chaburah Spotlight: Akiva Prager
Akiva’s Chaburah has been having a tremendous summer so far. From learning in Chaburahs to winning (and eating) many Mak’s cakes, the Chaburah has really bonded and grown together. Akiva attended TABC, then Sha’alvim, and is currently in YU. This is his fifth summer on Kollel and his third as a madrich.
The Chaburah hails entirely from the East Coast, representing a range of schools. Starting in the tri-state area, Azarya Tiger returned to Kollel for a second summer from Bergenfield, New Jersey, and TABC. Next, Yosef Koenigsberg comes from the Heights and will share a campus with Akiva next year as he attends MTA. Moving south, KYHS sent Kollel a cadre of three NCSYers from Boca: Elisha Horowitz, Benjamin Klinger, and Calev Zak. Rounding out the Chaburah is a late addition to Kollel, a transfer by the name of Max Lehmann. From the Hebrew Academy of Miami, Max tipped the scales of the Chaburah, giving Florida a 4-3 majority.
This summer, the “7 Yidden” are learning all about what it means to be a Jew. Following a year like this one, delving into a deeper understanding of Kedushas Yisrael, the aspirations, and transcendence of Yahadus feels most appropriate. Approaching Kedushas Yisrael from a range of sugyos like Dinim (laws and the court system), Kibbud Av V’Em, Shechitah, and (of course) the role of Korbanos and the Beis HaMikdash, the Chaburah has had the opportunity to appreciate the breadth and depth of Jewish halachic life. And with daily chazarah memes courtesy of Max, the balance of a serious learning atmosphere (with chavrusa time!) and an upbeat, fun dynamic has been a real hallmark of the Chaburah. The 7 Yidden are so excited to take advantage of the last leg of the summer, learning about each Jew’s unique connection to Tefillah, Teshuva, Shabbos, and our Torah!
Chaburah Spotlight: Yitzchak Hagler
For the first twenty years of Yitzchak Hagler’s life, NCSY Kollel was but a legend—a paradise imagined but never experienced. This summer, all of that changed. In his rookie year on Kollel, Yitzchak has the privilege of being the madrich of an awesome group of guys, an opportunity he has been taking full advantage of.
A resident of Bergenfield, NJ, Yitzchak attended MTA for high school before spending two years at Yeshivat Sha’alvim. Next year, he plans to complete the hat trick (or chazakah) with his third year at Sha’alvim. Yitzchak’s goal in chaburas is to delve into the depth and sophistication present in all areas of Torah. Using the weekly parsha as their launchpad, the chabura journeys across a wide range of topics the Torah world has to offer, from machshavah to contemporary issues, Chumash be’iyun, and famous shas lomdus. Along the way, they make pit stops for chabura jeopardy, chabura basketball, adventures with mekubalim at the Kotel, “intentional” long waits for the last bus to arrive, and lots of candy.
As the saying goes, “The pilot is only as good as the plane he is flying” (if this isn’t a saying, it should be), and this is certainly true of Yitzchak’s chabura, which consists of a diverse group of guys united in their motivation to learn and have a good time together. First up, we have Noam Bieler from Teaneck, NJ. Noam, a rising junior at TABC, is known for his proficiency in soccer and ping pong, and he contributes greatly to chaburas with his strong opinions and sense of humor. Next is Zvi Goldscheider from Yerushalayim Ir Hakodesh. Zvi attends Orayta (a high school in the Old City of Yerushalayim) and sets himself apart with his consistency and devotion to minyan and learning, as well as his lights-out shooting performance in chabura basketball.
Another NCSYer means yet another country, as next up is Dovid Knopf from Montreal, Canada. Dovid, of MTA, always has a good story to tell, and according to some counts, he leads the kollel in dap-ups and high fives per day. To round out the chabura, we travel to the West Coast, the land that Binyamin Malk and Dovi Tsarovsky call home. Binyamin, a big free agent pick-up for MBY this year, is known for his laid-back and easygoing nature. Whether he is exploring Israel, pounding away at Maseches Gittin, or selling pizza, Binyamin is someone you want to be around. Finally, we have Dovi Tsarovsky, a proud student at YULA. Besides being a great ball player, Dovi takes his learning seriously and loves a good vort on the parsha, contributing greatly to the chabura.
All in all, Yitzchak’s Chabura is having an amazing time on Kollel, and they can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer has in store!
Chaburah Spotlight: Yonah Tarzik
Yonah Tarzik could not have asked for a better start to his second summer as a madrich and third summer overall on NCSY Kollel. Yonah has had the privilege of calling Bergenfield, NJ, home for the last 18 years. He attended Heichal HaTorah, Sha’alvim, and just completed his first year at YU.
As soon as Yonah’s chaburah disembarked from the plane (at least most of them), they hit the ground running (all of them). The enthusiasm and excitement have been incredible from the start and only keep getting better by the day. The chaburah is made up of some of TABC’s finest. To start off, there’s Jack Nordlicht (New Rochelle), whose hasmada and drive for greatness greatly benefit the chaburah. Next is Daniel Eckman (Teaneck), who always brings tremendous positive energy and simchas hachaim, making the chaburahs fun and exciting. Then we have Akiva Horn (also from Teaneck). When not slipping at Max Cakes or trying to catch a lizard, Akiva is always looking out for others and making insightful comments in chaburahs. Next, we have the duo from Memphis. First up is Jack Kampf, whose commitment and dedication to Yiddishkeit inspire everyone. Then there’s Rafi Davidowicz, who you can usually find at the ping pong table or asking bomb kashyas during chaburahs. To round out the squad, we have the homegrown NCSY Kollel legend Chaim Turetsky. His sensitivity and thoughtfulness make him a pleasure to be around. Each member brings their own unique personality and flavor, creating an amazing chaburah dynamic.
The chaburah is learning through the sugyas of the שש זכירות. They are exploring why each one is part of the שש זכירות and how to incorporate those lessons into their lives. They’re learning about the importance of Talmud Torah, the holiness of Shabbos, how to protect oneself from lashon hara, and so much more!
The summer has gotten off to an unbelievable start, and it’s certain to only get better from here!
Chaburah Spotlight: Danny Weinberger
Danny Weinberger, a five-year veteran, has returned as a madrich on NCSY Kollel for the third summer in a row. After shteiging away at Frisch and Shaalvim, he made his way to the University of Pennsylvania, where he strives to spread the light of Torah that he gained from his summers on Kollel.
Danny’s chabura is composed of six highly motivated and superstar NCSYers from around America and Israel. First up is Akiva Lanner, one of two members from Katz YHS in Boca Raton, FL. Akiva’s simchas hachaim and enthusiastic attitude always bring amazing vibes to the chabura. Next from Katz is Golan Agyhion, whose intelligent ha’aros, questions, and laser-focused approach serve as a model for what it takes to be an eved Hashem. The second high school duo, Akiva Borgen and Jeb Fields, hails from Teaneck, NJ, representing TABC. Akiva’s curiosity consistently enlightens the chabura with intriguing questions that lead to fun and meaningful discussions. Jeb’s knowledge of Rebbeim and composed mentality fascinates the chabura and helps keep them on track. Their sole Israeli member, representing Chorev from Beit Shemesh, is Eliyahu Rosner, whose confidence and unique experiences bring a crucial perspective to the chabura. Last but not least is Yehuda Dock, representing Heichal from Teaneck, NJ. Yehuda’s constant and contagious smile demonstrates an extraordinary ahava for Hashem and His Torah.
This summer, Danny’s chabura is focused on learning about tefilla, delving into sugyas that cover the preparatory aspects of davening as well as the kavana one should have while praying—both individually and as a tzibbur.
The summer has been amazing so far, and the boys can’t wait to see what more is in store!
Chaburah Spotlight: Eitan Dukas
Eitan Dukas is enjoying his fourth summer on NCSY Kollel. A member of both Teaneck and Bergenfield (border houses do exist), Eitan attended Frisch, then Shaalvim for two years, and is now entering his last year at YU.
Eitan’s Chaburah brings together members from across the U.S., representing the diversity of the Jewish people. From the Windy City and Fasman Yeshiva are Chayim Zahtz and Natie Rosen. On the East Coast, there are four of MTA’s finest: Andi Richman, Gavi Engel, and Shai Sabo, all from Bergenfield, while Joe Mogul holds down the fort in Teaneck.
This summer, Eitan’s chaburah is focusing on two main topics. The first is various Middos in Bein Adam L’chaveiro, where they’ve learned about V’ahavta L’reacha Kamocha, embarrassing others, and more. They’re also spending time delving into the purpose of Mitzvos, understanding why we have them, their importance, and much more.
This Chaburah has already learned and grown so much and can’t wait to continue the rest of the summer and beyond!
Chaburah Spotlight: Chanan Schreiber
Moving on from Shana Bet at Gush, and before that, TABC for high school, Chanan Schreiber is spending his second summer on NCSY Kollel, this time as a madrich, before heading to YU for the coming year.
Baruch Hashem, it’s been a great start to the summer with an all-star lineup in the chabura. Eddie Bohm and Elie Fenster, both from the Bronx, are in high school at SAR. From further down the East Coast, there’s Gabe Cohen from Boca Raton, Eitan Lasry from Hollywood, and Netanel Rubin from Coral Springs, all attending Katz Yeshiva High School.
The Chabura is delving into very important topics, focusing on Israel and the current situation of Am Yisrael. How should one react to news that an enemy has been killed? Is it so obvious that you should celebrate? Do the mitzvot you perform hold more significance when done in the land that Hashem has promised us? If Birkat Kohanim is so important, why is it done daily only in Israel? These are just a few glimpses into the discussions within the chabura.
B’Ezrat Hashem, Chanan and the entire Chabura will continue to grow together, learn together, and enjoy their time together throughout the rest of the summer!
Chaburah Spotlight: Zachary Magerman
Zachary Magerman, in his first summer on NCSY Kollel, is sharing Torah as a madrich. After growing up in Philadelphia and spending two years at Yeshivat Orayta, he spent the past two years at UPenn and will be transferring after this summer to continue his studies at YU.
His chaburah is made up of five first-team All-Pro out-of-towners: three from Maryland and two from Montreal. Noah Lichtman (Berman Hebrew Academy) brings an infectious positive attitude to the chaburah, especially when speaking about or to his Yeshiva league role model, Zevi Samet. Akiva Kranzler (Berman Hebrew Academy) is a gifted learner with incredible Hebrew skills, using them in combination with his motivation and consistency. Zevi Goldsmith (TA of Baltimore) is always encouraging and hyping up his friends, making sure to care about others while also growing and shteiging himself. Ben Fallenbaum (Hebrew Academy of Montreal) is deeply committed to his Avodas Hashem, consistently putting in the work to be a strong learner and a mindful person (he’s beaten me to the Beis every single morning so far!). Daniel Levy (Hebrew Academy of Montreal) is a charismatic and friendly presence whose Talmud Torah skills and self-control are well beyond his age.
This summer, they are learning about middot, using the Ramchal’s Mesillas Yesharim as a framework for understanding how to best bring Hashem’s light into the world. This includes sugyot on Talmud Torah, Simchah, personal growth, Shmirat Halashon, and mini-lessons on Jewish mindfulness/meditation, kabbalah, and chassidus. The chaburah builds their middos in the beis and ensures they bring those middos to the basketball court, where they also thrive on their respective teams.
This summer has been incredibly meaningful so far, and the guys can’t wait to continue their amazing journey together!