Juniors Have a Blast in Connecticut

by Razeil Siegman (’17)

On Wednesday morning after Shacharis, the Juniors, accompanied by all their Rebbeim, headed up to Connecticut for their annual grade trip. The first stop was CT Sportsplex, where there was a variety of sports to play in the indoor turf fields. The Sportsplex also had whirleyball, a hybrid of lacrosse and bumper cars, and a large laser tag field. After a couple hours of sports and a pizza lunch, they went to Congregation Bnei Shalom, where they davened Mincha and heard from Rav Doniel Kalish, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the famous Waterbury Yeshiva. Rabbi Kalish described how only once we are Makir Tov (show appreciation) to everyone around us, can we properly serve Hashem and appreciate all that He does for us. Following a delicious Chinese dinner, the Juniors watched the Hartford Wolfpack, the minor league team for the New York Rangers, take on the Portland Pirates. During the first intermission, Shiah Maisel (’17), sang on the jumbotron and received a huge ovation following his performance. Everyone had a fantastic time in the front row seats and many MTA students were even highlighted on the big screen periodically throughout the game.

After the game, the juniors went to Coco Key Water Resort, and went swimming upon their arrival in the indoor pool. To cap off the exciting day, they were treated to a midnight barbeque, followed by a Kumsitz with a story by Rabbi Mendelson.

On Thursday morning, the boys went to the indoor waterpark at the resort, where they enjoyed water slides, the lazy river, and more. After lunch, the juniors packed out and headed to an ice skating rink, where they played broomball, which was quite a unique experience. After broomball, the exhausted 11th graders headed back to MTA.

An amazing time was had by all and we extend a special thank you to Rabbi Green and Elie Hirt who planned the incredible trip.