Emily Wesoky - Team Israel

Playing for Israel has had an incredible impact on my life.  It has given me a chance to travel with other Jewish American teens and play and coach the sport I am passionate about.  The way I felt wearing the Israel Lacrosse jersey and singing Hatikvah with my American and Israeli teammates connected me to Israel and Judaism in a powerful way I had not expected.  I had no idea I would feel such a strong connection to this beautiful country. The only times I have visited Israel was with Israel Lacrosse and learning about the culture and amazing history of this country while teaching kids who have never seen the sport has been a very rewarding and life changing experience. I hope to continue to stay involved with Israel lacrosse for many years to come.

I have always been proud of being Jewish.  Both of my parents are Jewish and we have celebrated the traditional holidays, attended Hebrew school, and became a Bat Mitzvah.  Being Jewish is especially important to me since my mom's family came to America from Russia for a better life living as Jewish Americans.   Ever since I've visited Israel with Israel Lacrosse, I've connected to my Judaism on a deeper level.