As Itai walks the halls, shoots to the Bulldogs' hoops, or participates in a myriad of extra-curricular activities, he always does so with a smile, good nature, and kind flair.  His heart explodes with Jewish soul, connected deeply to his heritage and homeland.

"I chose to attend Yavneh because, as a Jew, I wanted to continue my Judaic learning as well as go to a great school with high secular studies," said Itai.  "As I applied to colleges, Yeshiva University was definitely at the top of my list for the same reason."

Also applied to the University of Maryland and the University of Massachusetts, Itai this week was indeed accepted to Yeshiva University.  He is also considering a gap year in Israel before pursuing a business investment and analysis career.  Having interned with his father's company, he is inspired and excited.

"Itai has become an effective student leader, on

Itai during "NoShave November"

the basketball court, in organizations, and as one of our student teachers for an introductory Oral Law class," said Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum, Associate Principal/Judaic Curriculum.  "He has shown incredible maturity and unparalleled leadership skills in serving as a mentor and role model for other students."

"Yavneh has a special way of combining secular classes within Judaic classes, and vice versa," said Itai.  "When teaching Jewish Law, we are likely given examples from real life or a general studies course - helping us to understand better."

"Itai asks thought-provoking questions that demonstrate his ability to think abstractly and he loves to offer a helping hand to his classmates," said Math teacher, Nicole Friedman.  "Itai has demonstrated his ability to master mathematics content and is extremely conscientious, often visiting during his free time to check on his grade and make sure that he is excelling."

The son of Atara and Danny, and the eldest brother of Ori '15, Liad '17,  and Liel, Itai and his family belong to Congregation Shaare Tefilla, where he helps with the children.   

A four-year member of the Varsity Basketball team, Itai is proud of the team's current standings, #2 in Texas' Small Private Schools and #9 in the current ranking of Jewish High Schools in North America, with a 9-1 record in Texas and a 17-4 record as we close out the first half of the season.  Personally, Itai holds Yavneh's all time record for block shots at 177 and is #2 in Career Rebounds at 759.  "We love winning, but it isn't all about that," said Itai. "These guys are a second set of brothers and we laugh a lot. The success we've had is because we work hard together and we genuinely like being together."

"Itai has an incredible commitment to the team, always emphasizing his commitment to Jewish identity, setting the example in everything he does," said David Zimmerman, who as Athletic Director, Head Basketball Coach, and Director of Co-Curricular Activities, has worked with Itai in an all-around capacity.  "Itai is one of the most spiritual players on our team and he exemplifies the Jewish soul that is the heart of the Bulldogs."

Itai is a founder of Yavneh's Young Entrepreneurs club and a member of Helping Hands for the Homeless and Dallas Yachad/National Jewish Council of Disabilities, which provides programming and events for those in our community, living with special needs.  With Dania Tanur '14, his co-President of Students Against Terrorism, Itai is putting the full-court press on preparations for the 2014 Points for Peace Tournament.*  In 11 years, the group has donated close to $425,000 to nine organizations supporting the needs of those affected by terrorism. 

Born in Israel, where he lived until he was 11-years-old, Itai recalls, as a young child, putting on a gas mask - preparing for the worst.  "Thank G-d we never got hit, and I don't know anyone personally who has been hurt, but I know how much the work that Points for Peace does matters," he said. "I'm proud to be able to give back, and to raise money and awareness, for the many ways in which lives have been affected."

"I love to help and to do anything that I can in order to make someone happy," said Itai.  "I like to work hard and to achieve my goals, and I won't ever give up until I do."

It is our score that you, Itai, came to Yavneh - you, definitely one of the record holders in the make-a-difference hall of fame!

Bulldog JV

January 7 ~  AWAY at Celina High School @ 6:30pm  

January 9 ~ AWAY at Dallas Lutheran @ 4:30pm  

Bulldog Varsity

January 7 ~ AWAY at Celina High School @ 8pm 

January 9 ~ AWAY at Dallas Lutheran @ 7:30pm

Lady Bulldogs

January 7 ~ AWAY at Shelton @ 6pm