The Maccabi Golden Boys
For Fathers’ Day, Maccabi News thought it would be interesting to speak to four very wise Maccabi gentlemen. Between them they have a staggering 291 years of wisdom to share, 220 years of Maccabi stories and 23 grandchildren to boast about. Oh Vay … sounds like a good story. Read on!
Phil Michael, John Rosen, Peter Goldman and Paul Isenberg
Meet John Rosen, Paul Isenberg, Peter Goldman and Phil Michael. These passionate grandfathers have many things in common. Their love of family, sport and Maccabi would certainly be top of mind. Spending time with them at their local haunt the Double Bay Lawn Bowls Club where as far as they are concerned, “It’s the last stop”, makes one admire the road they have travelled thus far. They all have their words of wisdom they wish to share but it all relates back to their Jewish connection intertwined with their history of being involved in Maccabi. Watching through the generations their children and grandchildren being involved gives them the greatest joy. Each grandfather wanted to share a little piece of advice … and these were their words.
John said, “Stay close to your children, they grow up very quickly and before you know it they are married and leading their own life. Ensure they enjoy their sport without pressure, it must come naturally. If you force them to do it they will burn out! Instill good work ethics it will last them a lifetime.”
Paul said, “Maccabi is wonderful because it gives a sense of belonging to a wider community. Have good role models around your kids. I was very lucky that my children had the late Michael Wrublewski, OAM steering them on the basketball court and bringing a passion to the surface that only he could ignite amongst 10, 11 & 12 year olds. Continuity through sport which brings connection on so many levels and most importantly our Jewish faith is of paramount importance.”
Peter said, “Don’t lose your Jewish faith. Continually teach your children the importance of Jewish identity. Maccabi has ensured that our children have Jewish friends and always a network. All four grandfathers preached how their friendships had spanned well over 40 years and their connection is through Maccabi. Friendships like these fill the quiet spaces and make the good times shared.”
Phil said, “Guide your children to love sport but do not push them to do a sport they have no interest in. With the right guidance a love will hopefully develop. Teach them to enjoy and embrace everlasting friendships. On that note, John intercepted with the old favourite line, “You can’t choose your family but you can choose your friends.”
Their final words of wisdom were probably the most important. Learn to appreciate things as you accumulate them. Therefore with each new thing comes a new appreciation along the way. Relish Friday night Shabbat dinners and family time and after you have done all the contact sport you need in your life settle back for the good life and come and enjoy Lawn Bowls – there is nothing quite like it!
