Derek Wade, Trustee NATE GOLDBERG Program CITDirector, Asst. Dir
DEDICATION: Sharon sock
“Avodian.” An eponymous yearbook, named after the camp, made by the camp, and representing the camp. Since the decades of Avoda’s advent, only camp’s truest have been tasked with documenting and publishing this glorious yearbook. This dedicatee is no exception, being a true Avodian herself, but her story starts at a different camp. Ronni, the current camp director, worked with Sharon Sock during her time at Camp Jori, and since the time they met have maintained a friendship of over 20 years. A few years after Ronni assumed her position at Avoda, Leon stepped down from the position of Avodian editor. Who would ever replace him? Ronni knew of a friend of hers, a graphic design whiz. And the rest is history.
Sharon has been working with the Avodian staff for six years now, and has been instrumental in making sure the Avodian reads and looks amazing. She does all of the work laying out each page, dropping photos and formatting text, choosing colors and fonts. The Avodian has received a more vibrant, playful and engaging look with her help. She also helps to coordinate the editing of the Avodian and assists admin to clear each and every page before it is finalized. In addition to putting in all of this solo work, she meets with the Avodian staff each Monday, checking in and making sure that all the tasks for the week have been assigned. Even asynchronously, we check in and make sure we’re on the right track (It’s a miracle we’ve kept this dedication a secret for so long). She puts in so much work to make sure the Avodian is a perfect memory of each summer, even moving to camp for the last few days before it is due. Thanks to Sharon, the Avodian is a meaningful memento for each camper and staff member as well as a helpful tool for all prospective families that want a sneak peek into what a summer here looks like.
In addition to her work with the Avodian, her graphic design work has seen the introduction of the new siddurim this summer, as she helped to lay out all the songs and prayers, as well as source the text for the prayers and service order. Furthermore, she has brought two of her sons, Cooper and Reese, with her here, who have been assets to the waterfront program. Finally, she also loves to help with her photography skills, especially in Abe and Reese’s absence.
Sharon deserves so much more than a humble headshot and caption, as she is the main reason we can keep up the legacy of the Avodian, the greatest summer yearbook you’ve seen.
So, we are proud to dedicate the 2025 Avodian to none other than Sharon Sock.
Written by Ryan Wilkov
WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT THE 2025 AVODIAN!
CO- HEADS OF THE AVODIAN: Ryan Wilkov, Sam Peljovich
Micah Gladstone, Jamie Schutzbank, Drew MacGilpin, Josh Levy, Ben Maron
AVODIAN EDITOR/DESIGNER: Sharon Sock
The Avodian 2025
TROPHY WINNERS
TROPHY WINNERS
PAPANOV
THE GALLERY
BUNK SECTION
CAMP AVODA BUNK STAFF
BUNK 1
Adin Eisler
Zack Gessman
Ethan Spickler
BUNK 2
Max Jacoby
Sam Kaplan
Theo Kleinmann
BUNK 3
Eric Friedman
Ryan Jacoby
Yaniv Malsa
BUNK 4
David Borokhov
Matthew Steindecker
DJ Vetstein
BUNK 5A
Tyler DeRosa
Cy Greenblatt
Alex Leibman
Theo Kleinmann
BUNK 5B
Avery Kalish
Adam Levy
Yotam Miterani
BUNK 6
Jonathan Rubin
Nathan Shabashov
Max Veksler
Jack Wexler
BUNK 7
Max Leavitt
Danel Rozman
BUNK 8
Ethan Hass
Jason Hecht
BUNK 9
Gaby Goldberg
Sam Peljovich
BUNK 10
Sam Gornstein
Avi Rochwerger
Ryan Wilkov
BUNK 12
Griffin Bloomstein
Benny Hasenberg
Eric Hernandez
Brett Itchkow
BUNK 14
Jason Karas
Reese Sock
Charlie Zuker
STAFF: Adin Eisler, Zack Gessman, Ethan Spickler
BUNK1 DOT DOT: …daily spills…bedtime jazz…fein…Avatar …5:30 wake up…Pretty Little Baby…fire in the hole
Ethan Spickler, Adin Eisler, Samuel Shilman, Logan Layish, Zack Gessman George Heitin, Lado Mamaev, Samson Goldberg, Jacob Gilje, Adam Safar, Liam Musheyev BUNK
Adin Eisler, Adam Safar, Jack Kirsch, Noah Groysman, Noah Dougherty, Ethan Spickler, Zack Gessman Freddy Sweeney, Aiden Lehmayer, Liam Musheyev, Leo Cohen, Christian McGuinnes, George Heitin, Gabriel Kishko, Noah Perlis BUNK 12ND
BUNK 2
STAFF: Max Jacoby, Sam Kaplan, Theo Kleinmann
Max Jaffe, Ezra Pildis, Theo Kleinmann, Max Jacoby, Sam Kaplan, Louie Pemstein, Jake Wade Scottie Gerson, Nate Peters, Lucas Feldman, Evan Gollinger, Jack Charton, Tyler Kominsky, Mason Valentino, Nate Majzner, Teddy Pemstein
BUNK 2 DOT DOT:…no sag, no swag…wanna play on the Sea Sawwwww…Kam Saplan…Another spill?!…Sam vs. Mason Val…I’m gonna tell Ronni…Arby’s we have the meats…hit the deck …stinger…can I have a waffle…cheese burger, no cheese please…Where is my phone?
Jake Wade, Mason Valentino, Sam Kaplan, Max Jacoby, Ethan Zuckerman
BUNK 3 DOT DOTS …Ben and Jacob…areas…rest period…mini CW…Jeremy’s house…overnight
Yaniv Malasa, Ben Angle, Eli Bittman, Jacob Stein, Sammy Levy, Jack Leviton, Eric Friedman (not pictured Ryan Jacoby)
Nathaniel Shilman, Ryan Jacoby, Yaniv Malasa, Sammy Levy Jacob Stein, Jackson Roy, Lev Noble, Jack Leviton, Ben Angle (not pictured Eric Friedman)
BUNK 4
STAFF: David Borokhov, Matthew Steindecker,
BUNK 4 DOT DOTs: …I have a different story …The Prayer…big back …Spin down…It was all a dream…Episodes…Cars …2k30’s got talent …Minecraft music
DJ Vetstein
David Borokhov, Matthew Steindecker, DJ Vetstein, Gregory Movshovich
Avery Steiman, Owen Faneuil, Brennan Agulnek, Charlie Glattstein, Arthur Papanov
David Borokhov, Avery Steiman, DJ Vetstein, Matthew Steindecker, Arthur Papanov, Charlie Glattstein, Brennan Agulnek, Zachary Allen, Owen Faneuil, Chase Weatherbee
STAFF: Tyler DeRosa, Cy Greenblatt, Alex Leibman, Cooper Sock
BUNK 5A
SOPHOMORES
Cooper Sock, Cy Greenblatt, Teddy Johnson, Simon Hirsch, Tyler DeRosa
Jordan Schechner, Mark Gaidukov, Lucas Katz, Cooper Nathan, Micah Krauss, Barry Ayzenberg
BUNK 5A DOT DOTs:…Lucas ragebaits…brrrr brrr patapim…good boy…Jet2 Holiday…Adam sum sum…Leiberrrr…Why you on my bed…Simon Hersheys bar…67…Where’s Ben…Cheek (Jacob)… Best CIT…Drose…Ruined you 14…can I lost lights
Aaron Mooney, Jacob Schiller, Cy Greenblatt, Theo Kleinmann, Alex Leibman
Micah Krauss, Cooper Nathan, Lucas Katz, Ezra Metter, Jordan Schechner, Isaac Katz, Ben Goldman BUNK
BUNK 5B
SOPHOMORES
STAFF: Avery Kalish, Adam Levy, Yotam Miterani
BUNK 5B1ST MONTH
Adam Levy, Ben Kuritnik, Josh Goble, Yotam Miterani, Avery Kalish
Jesse Fernandez, David Petrie, Jacob Wieland, David Mello, Vincent Strezzo-Filippo, Asher Liss
BUNK 5B DOT DOTs:…mine…Evie…Spitler…iPad kid…Ben ate the chicken…stop ticking …Momma Liss…muck…Avrie Relish
Adam Levy, Avery Kalish, Ben Kuritnik, Eli Levinson-Waldman, Jesse Fernandez, Yotam Miterani
STAFF: Jonathan Rubin, Nathan Shabashov, Max Veksler, Jack Wexler
Jonathan Rubin, Max Veksler, Henry Zamcheck, Noah Ready, Tyler Groysman, Nathan Shabashov, Jack Wexler
Nat Heitin, Will Levine, Noah Grossman, Jeremy Katzmann, Matthew Piesman, Theo Monakhov, Jeremy Lavin, Lucas Ready
BUNK 6 DOT DOTs:…Romanow…Ella Joe…you gotta be yoking me…dock balllllll…Lucas Ready Joke of the Day…Shreksler…Holy It’s…gimme a good 67…Whitney…chuzz…no brooms
Nathan Shabashov, Jonathan Rubin, Elan Smith, Tyler Groysman, Max Veksler, Jack Wexler
Eli Miller, Roovy Simon, Nat Heitin, Ben Afergan, Jacoby Allen, Jeremy Katzmann, Theo Monakhov
BUNK 7 DOT DOT: …are you sure?…on my life…Honey Buns…yeah, yeah, yeah…higher radius …rec hall bathroom…lost lights…waiters
Danel Rozman, David Khimatch, Mitchell Feldman, Roman Sabitov, Max Leavitt
Justus Hall, Nico Cheresky, Ariel Makhnovsky, Ben Mello, Micah Schechner, Max Ellison
Danel Rozman, Mitchell Feldman, JJ Cherkassky, Matthew Liang, Roman Sabitov, Max Leavitt
David Haiut, Justus Hall, Noah Mirucki, Austin Weatherbee, Max Ellison, Max English
Tyler Mann, Dylan Agulnek, Ethan Musheyev, Jesse Wexler, Tristen Abrams, Max English, Henry Gold (not pictured Jason Hecht)
BUNK 8 DOT DOTs: …KOA…SSMD…more like…POV vro…cuddle buddies…Denota…Hasser… Leiber…Gassed up Shawty…BBQ…zesty voice…Does he always sleep like that?…story time…OTT
Tristen Abrams, Dylan Demeo, Cam Sinay, Ethan Hass, Jason Hecht, Jeremy Vichniac, Jesse Wexler, Tyler Mann
Ethan Musheyev, Saadiah Goldberg, Fletcher Kimball, Sam Starr, Sebastian Schneider, Micah Schechner, Ezra Wilchins, Dylan Agulnek, Henry Gold
STAFF: Gaby Goldberg, Sam Peljovich
Gaby Goldberg, Spencer Oransky, Max Shabashov, JR Gilberg, Jacob Gilberg, Sam Peljovich Miles Hurwitz, Ben Fernandez, Danny Mooney, Sam Peters, Daniel Weiner, Georgy Papanov
Gaby Goldberg, Danny Mooney, Spencer Oransky, Jacob Gilberg, JR Gilberg, Sam Peljovich Georgy Papanov, Max Shabashov, Daniel Weiner, Sam Peters, Ben Fernandez, Miles Hurwitz
STAFF: Sam Gornstein, Avi Rochwerger, Ryan Wilkov
Ryan Wilkov, Sasha Lukashchuk, Landon Lifshey-Wu, Simon Litovchick, Sam Gornstein
Henry Heitin, Ari Landau, Jay McNulty, Jake Rothstein, Leo Brodsky, Eli Glazer
BUNK 10 DOT DOTs: …Quattrobomb…woman jumpscare…Velvet Bathroom…BTLB…The Real Yao Ming …I couldn’t tell the difference…Moeige Guy…Gorno Duty…ZT Boys…The Peacemaker…Team Wilkov
Sam Gornstein, Asher Raub, Landon Lifshey-Wu, Ryan Wilkov, Avi Rochwerger
Jay McNulty, Andrew Pelletier, Jake Rothstein, Elad Lawrence, Thomas Muro, Leo Brodsky
NOT PICTURED: Zac Rose
BUNK 12
STAFF: Brett Itchkow, Benny Hasenberg, Griffin Bloomstein, Eric Hernandez
Brett Itchkow, Benny Hasenberg, Griffin Bloomstein, Eric Hernandez Avner Israeli, Jake Mann, JD Feldman, Charlie English
Hillel Goldberg, Gabby Borokhov, Sam McGuire, Avi Schechner, Eli Turgel, Frederick Petrie, Anton Khlystov
BUNK 12 DOT DOTs: …take a lap…Chickayy…Sensei…Phoenix…Lord Anxious…Airhead…It…one was a star…Projector…He’s a meat lover…TWSD…Cruise…Who said Eitan?…One dance…there he is …Shai jump…clap clap chief…mind you…YOLO ig…TMSS
Benny Hasenberg, Eric Hernandez, Gabby Borokhov, Avi Schechner, Griffin Bloomstein, Brett Itchkow Sam McGuire, Eli Turgel, Avner Israeli, JD Feldman, Ethan Mietla, Charlie English, Asher Harwitz NOT PICTURED: Joseph Yablonsky
BUNK 14
BUNK 14
STAFF: Jason Karas, Reese Sock, Charlie Zuker
Bunk 14 dot dots …mind your blue business…one Superman please…puh…fade zebe…Yablo…mincus pincus …I go I go I go…it’s like my brotha
Charlie Zuker, Drew MacGilpin, Micah Gladstone, Jamie Schutzbank, Sammy Rochwerger, Jason Karas, Reese Sock
Sam Ayzenberg, Ben Yablonsky, Jake Paltrowitz, David Hicks, Josh Levy, Ben Gyimah (not pictured Ben Maron)
BUNK 14 OVERNIGHT
It was a beautiful Sunday morning, right after breakfast, Leon Dyer gathered the 14ers and headed off on their trip. It was a 6 hour drive up to The Forks, ME with many stops in between. The first stop was Peabody, MA where the 14ers picked up their fellow bunkmate Rob Beader to come along for the trip. The second stop was Charlie Zuker’s breathtaking house with a very large lawn, nice garden, and a pool area even including a hot tub! Avoda legend Bobby Zuker and family cooked the group an amazing lunch including burgers, cooked vegetables, and the most delicious cooked peaches with a juicy inside. It felt like heaven biting into that ripe, orange peach. Another Avoda legend, Steve Gladstone, prepared us amazing marinated chicken breast. Dinner was then followed by an amazing assortment of desserts, headlined by spectacular oatmeal raisin cookies. After the 14ers had eaten, they ended their time at the Zuker residence playing an arrangement of games including cornhole, spikeball, bucket golf and even pool mini hoop 3v3s. The highlight of the day was the electric cornhole games that were played between Leon Dyer and Drew MacGilpin as one team, Jason Karas and Reese Sock as the second. The games were very sharp and close but in the end Jason and Reese went back on the road with the win. The takeaway from that game was that Leon Dyer is the best cornhole player ever. With great appreciation, the Bunk 14ers said their goodbyes, and began their trek up to their final destination where they would stay the night: the cabin at Northern Outdoor Adventures. After a brief stop at Walmart, they arrived at the cabin and began to settle in and get a good night’s rest before their adventure the next day. The following day they spent many hours whitewater rafting on
the Kennebec rapids. Afterwards, the campers got some much needed naptime rest before heading back out to dine at the campground’s very own restaurant. They then were able to explore the area before resting for their final day out. The next day included a 6 hour drive which consisted of a stop at Chick-fil-A, a dinner at Maggiano’s Little Italy where the 14ers enjoyed a variety of Italian dishes, and the viewing of a Red Sox game which was electric before it sadly got rained out. Once they were forced out, the group ended their final trek back to camp, concluding a fantastic trip.
BUNK 14 in 15 years
Sam Ayzenberg: ................................. Kindergarten teacher
Rob Beader: ......................................................... High off life
Micah Gladstone: ..................... Still talking about the quad
Ben Gyimah: .............................................. Staying hydrated
David Hicks: ................ Playing in a Sunday lacrosse league
Josh Levy: .......................................................... CEO of Temu
Drew MacGilpin: .............................................. Playing Mines
Benjamin Maron: ........................................................ Fading
HEAD CHEF: Scott Rubeck | ASSISTANT CHEF: Julian Martineau
Diego Resendiz Zarate, Roman Herrera Hernandez, Juan Martinez, Abdiel Ortiz Zarete
Alan Maldonado Martinez, Abner Ponce Santoyo, Axel Rojas Posadas, Kevin Dongues Cruz
OFFICE STAFF:
Robyn Glazier, Julie Costa, Lyn Cronin
FACILITY STAFF:
FACILITY COORDINATOR: Joe Cronin
Gabriel Rodriguez Hernandez, Fernando Calderon Diaz
JUNIOR HOOPS
SENIOR HOOPS
Junior SOCCER
senior SOCCER
swim team Nature Team
senior softball junior softball
tennis team
AVODA BROTHERS
AVODA LOOK ALIKES
JAKE PALTROWITZ TYLER GROYSMAN
TEDDY PEMSTEIN
MICAH GLADSTONE NOAH READY
MAX VEKSLER
BY THE NUMBERS
TOTAL MINUTES OF HOUSE MUSIC PLAYED: 293:51:33
NUMBER OF PLAYING CARDS TRASHED: 5,930
NUMBER OF COHERENT LUCAS READY JOKES: 0
NUMBER OF BEANIES LOST: 1,421
AVG. FRIDAY NIGHT SERVICE RUN TIME: 47:02
NUMBER OF MAKERSPACE SHIRTS DESIGNED: 82
NUMBER OF CW VIDEO VIEWS: 4,527
NUMBER OF GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES EATEN BY LUCAS KATZ: 262
NUMBER OF DAIRY MEALS: 146
NUMBER OF SHABBAT SHOUT-OUTS: 177
NUMBER OF INDOOR MEAT MEALS: 5
NUMBER OF MAKERSPACE SHIRTS MADE: 0.31
NUMBER OF DW FAKE BREAKS: 2
NUMBER OF BONFIRE SPEECHES INTERRUPTED BY FIREWORKS: 15
NUMBER OF AÇAI BOWLS EATEN: 124
NUMBER OF “SUMMER OF” DECLARATIONS: 58
NUMBER OF INCORRECTLY TIMED BUGLES: 62
NUMBER OF HOURS LOST OFF PELJO’S LONG NIGHTS: ∞
NUMBER OF 14ERS ON THE BLUE AGENCY: 0
NUMBER OF WHITE RAPTORS JAILBREAKS: 6,767
ONLY AT AVODA
avoda couples
Brett Itchkow & The Microphone
SammyRochwerger& Ethan Mietla
Max Leavitt & Max Veksler & Sam Kaplan
Drew MacGilpin & Ethan Hass
6 & 7
Lucas Ready & Noah Grossman
Micah Schechner & Dylan Demeo
Yotam Miterani & Alex Leibman
Andrew Pelletier & Asher Raub
avoda poll
ROOKIE DAY
Day at camp pembroke
Field Trips
Level 99
Starland
Onset Beach
Water Wizz
Boston Red Sox
Wicked Waves
Canobie Lake Park
Mount Monadnock
TreeTop Adventures
Boston Science Museum
Apex Entertainment Center
NE Revolution II
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Avoda OPENING DAY
The Fourth of July is a cherished annual holiday celebrated by Americans nationwide, and at Camp Avoda, we have our own special way of honoring it: we bring the fireworks and festivities to us. The day began with our usual morning routine, we gathered for a hearty breakfast, featuring donuts and french toast, fueling us for the day ahead. Once bunk cleanup was finished, everyone returned to the flag pole, buzzing with excitement as we learned about the surprise activity: mud wrestling! Campers prepared to face their friends in a hilarious and messy showdown filled with laughter and camaraderie. A few key matches were between bunk 1 and defending mud wrestling champion Ken “Triple A” Shifman, 2 best friends Jake Wade and Louie Pemstein, and the 2 twins JR and Jacob Gilberg. After the morning’s activities, we indulged in an incredible barbecue for lunch. The spread featured burgers, hotdogs, and barbeque chicken, and grilled veggies satisfying everyone’s appetites. The excitement continued with the carnival, where campers raced down the slides and obstacle courses, as well as watched the annual hot dog eating contest. As the sun began to set, Bunk 14 revealed their bonfire, themed “One,” showcasing their unity as a bunk. Campers took turns sharing speeches that reflected their bond and experiences together. The night concluded with all campers standing by Lake Tispaquin, gazing out over the water as the fireworks lit up the sky. With a bomb pop in hand, we watched the breathtaking display, a magical backdrop for our reflections on the day. by Joshua Levy and Drew MacGilpin
4TH OF JULY
FLAGRUSH
Opening night Flagrush was absolutely ELECTRIC!!!
Following the camp’s delicious barbecue, looking over Lake Tispaquin, the campers proceeded to get ready for a night of competition and fun. Jake Wade had everyone on their toes waiting to hear what the first evening activity was. After Jake made the announcement “FLAGRUSH,” the campers erupted into jubilation. The captains for the blue team, Ben Maron and Micah Gladstone, fired their team up, provided leadership, and kept morale high in true Avoda fashion. As for the white team, the captains, Drew MacGilpin and Jake Paltrowitz, motivated their team ahead of battle.
The opening siren blew, and the freshman/sophomore period began. Campers sprinted and scattered amongst the field in hopes of scoring flags. The first period was highlighted by Charlie Glattstein’s viscous defensive efforts and his speedy offensive plays. Furthermore, Jesse Fernandez was seen flipping through the line as he scored a flag.
The following periods included the rest of the camp and were full of hodgepodge. Flags were continuously scored left and right. Some memorable efforts included Asher Liss’ absolutely absurd juke that forced white team’s captain Drew MacGilpin to fall to his butt. Additionally, Ben Gymiah was running with a flag on the verge of scoring when all-star defender Saaaaaadiah Goldberg came bolting at him and wrapped him up. Ahead of the second half, the captains rerouted their teams to improve their odds. Chaos ensued at the beginning of the second half and continued down to the last moments of penalty rushes. For the blue team, Micah Gladstone took the first rush and swiftly outran skillful defender Hillel Goldberg. Following, Jake Paltrowitz took the rush for the white team but was stopped short by the monstrous Landon Lifshey-Wu, who led the blue team prancing their way to second base and chanting “We’re Number 1!”
by
Micah Gladstone and Ben Maron
ZOOBALL
As per tradition, the evening activity on the second night of camp was the other legendary Avoda sport: Zooball — a one-of-a-kind game created right here at camp. Anticipation was high as the teams were announced, along with the four team captains: Joshua Levy and Jamie Schutzbank for the blue team, and Ben Yablonskiiii and Ben Gyiiiimah for the white team
Throughout the first half, the blue team got the upper hand, led by Captain Jamie Schutzbank and a flurry of early goals from Micah Gladstone and Sammy Rochwerger. Momentum flipped to white, however and just before the half, they were able to limit the damage with Tyler Groysman saving 3 tough drop kicks.
After halftime, Team White regrouped and shifted their focus to defense. Captain Ben Yablonsky created a much-needed spark with a key play that brought White back into contention. Despite White’s resilience and several near-goals, Blue’s relentless offense kept the pressure on.
With only minutes remaining, and tensions high, Ben Yablonsky skyed a crucial drop kick that could’ve turned the tide, kicking it to the moon. Instead, Team Blue seized the moment — racing to second base in celebration, chanting, “We’re number one!” as the sun set on another epic Zooball showdown.
by Josh Levy and Jamie Schutzbank
AVODA TOURNEY
BUBBA DAY
One day a year, Avoda takes their time to honor the memory of Adam “Bubba” Miller, a former assistant director, program director, color war general, and Avoda legend.
BATTLE OF THE SUPER TEAMS
AVODA LEAGUE
Avoda League Commissioners
Gaby Goldberg Ethan Hass
FRESHMen LEAGUE
Coach:
MVPs: AIDEN LEHMAYER
Coach:
MVP: BRENNAN AGULNEK
JACOB GUZZI
Coaches: Tyler Goldberg and Josh McGuire
MVPs: NATE MAJZNER
SCOTTIE GERSON
Logan Layish and Danny Karas
SCOTTIE GERSON
David Satloff, Leo Steindecker
SOPHOMORLEAGUE
MVPs: JONAH PHILLIPS
AARON MOONEY
Coach: Logan Layish and Danny Karas
MVPs: BRENNAN AGULNEK, AVERY STEIMAN
Coach: Jordan Hass, Nate Zalvan
MVPs: EMMETT SALZBERG TYLER GROYSMAN
Coach: Jordan Hass, Zack leibman
JUNIOR/SENIOR LEAGUE
MVP: FLETCHER KIMBALL
Coach: Griffin Bloomstein
MVP: JACOB GILBERG
Coach: Charlie Zuker
MVP: JAKE PALTROWITZ
Coach: Max Leavitt
HOOLIGANS
JUNIOR/SENIOR LEAGUE
Coaches:
SMOKED GOUDA
Coaches:
STINKING BISHOP
MVP: JR GILBERG, MILES HURWITZ
Nate Goldberg & Leon Dyer
MVP: DREW MACGILPIN
Brett Itchkow & Eric Hernandez
MVP: JAMIE SCHUTZBANK
Coach: Jason Karas
2025 LEAGUE
FR LEAGUE SEASON 1
Monsters Inc
MVP: Nate Peters
Coaches: Tyler Newton and Adam Mann
Lego Movie
MVP: Gabriel Kishko
Coach: Leo Steindecker
Lorax
MVP: Louie Pemstein
Coaches: Zack Leibman and Josh McGuire
FR LEAGUE CHAMPIONS - SEASON 1
Winning League Team: Madagascar
MVP’s: Nate Majzner and Scottie Gerson
Players: Nate Majzner, George Heiten, Scottie Gerson, Noah Perlis, Ezra Pildis, Leo Cohen
Players: Brennan Agulnek, Jacob Guzzi, Charlie Glattstein, Jacob Stein, Nathaniel Shilman, Tyler Schechner, Liam Musheyev, George Heiten
Coaches: Tyler Goldberg and Josh McGuire
SO LEAGUE SEASON 1
Bee Movie
MVP: Eli Bittman
Coach: Zachary Musheyev
Trolls
MVP: Jeremy Katzmann
Coaches: David Satloff and Charlie Muller
Mall Cop
MVP: Asher Liss
Coaches: Jonny Peters and Danny Karas
SO LEAGUE CHAMPIONS - SEASON 1
Winning League Team: Minecraft Movie
MVP’s: Brennan Agulnek and Avery Steiman
Players: Brennan Agulnek, Lucas Ready, Noah Grossman, Will Levine, Josh Goble, Jacob Stein, Avery
Steiman, Gregory Movshovich
Coaches: Jordan Hass and Nate Zalvan
SO LEAGUE SEASON 2
Pistachio Pistachio
MVP: Asher Liss
Coaches: Tyler Newton and Josh McGuire
Cherry Garcia
MVP: Jonah Phillips
Coach: Charlie Muller
Chubby Bunny
MVP: Brennan Agulnek
Coaches: Danny Karas and Zachary Musheyev
SO LEAGUE CHAMPIONS - SEASON 2
Winning League Team: Miz Jelena’s Sweet Potato Pie
MVP’s: Emmett Salzberg and Tyler Groysman
Players: Jesse Fernandez, Tyler Groysman, Owen
Faneuil, Avery Steiman, Sammy Levy, Will Levine, Jordan Schechner, Emmett Salzberg, Jacob Stein, Mark Gaidukov
Coaches: Jordan Hass and Zack Leibman
SO LEAGUE SEASON 3
The Chatta Box
MVP: Jesse Fernandez
Coaches: Zack Leibman and Jordan Hass
Tropical Llama
MVP: Reuben Bennett
Coaches: Zachary Musheyev, Johnny Peters
Appazitis
MVP: Zach Greenberg
Coaches: David Satloff and Nate Zalvan
SO LEAGUE CHAMPIONS - SEASON 3
Winning League Team: Ronnie’s Waffles
MVP’s: Jonah Phillips and Aaron Mooney
Players: Jonah Phillips, Aaron Mooney, Ben Afergan, Ofek Zhitomirsky, Nat Heitin, Tyler Grossman, Eli Levinson-Waldman
Coaches: Logan Layish and Danny Karas
JR/SR LEAGUE
Cheddar
MVP: Jacob Gilberg
Coach: Charlie Zuker
Blue Vinny
MVP: Fletcher Kimball
Coach: Griffin Bloomstein
Stinking Bishop
MVP: Jamie Schutzbank
Coach: Jason Karas
Cream Cheese
MVP: Jake Paltrowitz
Coach: Max Leavitt
Smoked Gouda
MVP: Drew MacGilpin
Coaches: Eric Hernandez & Brett Itchkow
JR/SR LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
Winning League Team: Hooligans
MVP’s: JR Gilberg and Miles Hurwitz
Coaches: Leon Dyer and Nate Goldberg
Players: JR Gilberg, Avi Schechner, Eitan
Philips, Miles Hurwitz, Asher Raub, Seba
Schneider, Charlie Hofer, Matthew Liang, Max English, Mitchell Feldman, Max Shabashov, Ariel Makhnovsky, Henry Heitin, Andrew Pelletier
DESERT WAR 2025
DESERT WAR
WHITE RAPTORS
GENERAL: GRIFFIN BLOOMSTEIN
1ST: BENNY HASENBERG
2ND: SAM PELJOVICH
3RD: ERIC HERNANDEZ
4TH: ERIC FRIEDMAN
AIDES: DAVID SATLOFF JONNY PETERS
CAPTAINS: JAKE PALTROWITZ MICAH GLADSTONE
MVPS: BENNETT KALISH, SAMMY ROCHWERGER, JAKE MANN, JOSHUA LEVY
DESERT WAR
BLUE AGENCY
GENERAL : ETHAN HASS
1ST : GABY GOLDBERG
2ND: MAX VEKSLER
3RD : JASON HECHT
4TH: SAM GORNSTEIN
AIDES : LEO STEINDECKER ZACH MUSHEYEV
CAPTAINS: BEN MARON
DREW MACGILPIN
MVPS: THEO MONAKHOV, JESSE FERNANDEZ, EITAN PHILLIPS
DESERT WAR
OH YEAH, WOO BABY—IT’S DESERT WAR!
By Joshua Levy
It was finally here… the biggest day of the summer and by far the most intense. Desert War 2025. Far more than just one day, but a lifetime of memories. During breakfast, Ethan Hass and Nate Goldberg got into a fight on the mic about wearing beanies and losing hours off long nights. And before anyone could react, staff rushed in screaming “IT’S DESERT WAR!” The mess hall erupted in excitement as the 14ers awaited one of the biggest days of their lives. The camp got silent as they waited to find out what team they were on. When Jason Karas got to reading out bunk 14, everyone clapped loudly, realizing that all of bunk 14 except two captains were on White. As the camp lined up on both sides of the path, Jason announced to the camp “Can I please have 4 desert war captains.” Ben Maron, Micah Gladstone, Jake Paltrowitz and Drew MacGilpin confidently walked down the path as both teams started jumping up and down and screaming “OOHHH” in ultimate excitement. Without losing any hype, the rest of the staff walked out. Soon the 1st LT’s Benny Hasenberg and Gaby
Goldberg announced the team names. Benny went first and asked the question “WHO’S GONNA WIN THIS DESERT WAR” and his team replied, “the White Raptors!” Then Gaby Goldberg asked the same and the “Agency” made their name known. Then the generals, Griffin Bloomstein and Ethan “I-drafted-no-14ers” Hass walked down and the teams ran to their respective bases. Both teams learned their playing assignments for the day and ran on to the field to stretch and hear the reading of the rules. This desert war would be one for the books. The first period began with a heavy rush from White but resulted in everyone in jail. Both Jakes– Mann and Paltrowitz– rushed hard and forced jailbreak after jail break, but each resulted in stop after stop. Then the Blue Agency was able to rush with most of White in jail. Avner Israeli got into the Desi, and forced a ton of pressure on the Raptors with the Desi 10 feet away from scoring, but the brothers Mann were able to get him out! Even though there were many chances from both teams, the 1st period ended with no scoring. In the 2nd period,
DESERT WAR
White started to pour it on. Captain Micah Gladstone was able to score the desi easily because the blue team drafted zero 14ers. And then, Bennett Kalish scored too (also because of the no 14ers thing).
After a much needed lunch and rest, the teams took the field again. In the 3rd period, Blue came out guns blazing and sent the house. Even with the extra help on offense, the Raptors were able to shut down each rush (because Blue had no 14ers). The 4th and 5th periods were very similar to the 3rd with Blue sending the house repeatedly and getting shut down repeatedly. A notable play was George Heitin BODYING Louie Pemstein. While Blue was rushing, White’s JR Gilberg, Micah Schechner, and more extended the lead for White. We got
to the 6th period and the Agency was still yet to score; the Raptors just had to hold Blue off for one more period until they got their sweet, sweet lake jump. The Agency sent almost every single person they had at the Raps’ defense and White shut it all down. Finally, Asher Raub was able to break through White’s defense. However, he was the only one to end up scoring for Blue. When the final siren blew, it was announced, “Winner, WHITE.” The Raptors sprinted to the lake in celebration. For the Blue Agency, the MVPs were Theo Monakhov, Jesse Fernandez, and Eitan Phillips. And for the dominant White Raptors, the prestigious award went to Bennett Kalish, Sammy Rochwerger, Jake Mann and Joshua Levy!
WHITE RAPTORS THE WINNERS!
color war 2025
white mavericks
WHITE MAVERICKS
General: Jason Karas
1st Lt: Griffin Bloomstein
2nd Lt: Gaby Goldberg
3rd Lt: Max Veksler
4th Lt: Jason Hecht
5th Lt: Matthew Steindecker
Aides: Danny Karas Nate Zalvan
Captain: Micah Gladstone
BLUE WOLVERINES
General: Charlie Zuker
1st Lt: Benny Hasenberg
2nd Lt: Ethan Hass
3rd Lt: Sam Peljovich
4th Lt: Alex Leibman
5th Lt: Ryan Jacoby
Aides: Ty Goldberg Jordan Hass
Captain: Jake Paltrowitz
BLUE Wolverines
COLOR WAR
COLOR WAR
BLUE wolverines
FIGHT SONG
To the tune of Joker and the Thief by Wolfmother
See the blue team walking down the path
Wolverines gonna have their way
See the Mavericks down and out
So well tell you all the story
Of the mighty Blue Wolverines
We’re laughing as we win this war
White is down to their final hour
You will see you’re overpowered
Till we are running to the lake
Can’t you see this war is all over
Every day we beat you, domination
Chase you down, no time to run
The only thing left we have to say
Go Blue!
Listen up, what you might not know
You’re whole staff doesn’t have a clue
Winning on the field for 7 days
So well tell you all the story
Of the mighty Blue Wolverines
Now we’re down to the final night
Crushed your team until you have no fight
The wild beast has you in its sight
As we, are running to the lake
Can’t you see this war is all over
Every day we beat you, domination
Chase you down, no time to run
The only thing left we have to say Go Blue!
It’s all done, you never had a chance
Wolverines had a perfect plan
See the Mavericks down and out
So we’ll tell you all the story
About the mighty Blue Wolves
Said we’ll tell you all the story
Of the mighty Blue Wolves
Said, we’ll tell you all the story
Blue team to the lake tonight
FREE CHOICE
To the tune of Lingering Love by Fruit Bars
Sit in class, dreaming of summer
Oh I, know a place
Oh, to be where the weather’s warmer
With a friend, together
And a view of our lake
Sunlight dancing on the water
Laughter fills the air all summer
Now I
I got Avodian love for this place
Take a look out on Tispaquin
What I’d give to go back
All year living 10 for the 2 Daydreaming, about Avoda
When June is around the corner
Turn on tispaquin
Butterflies, pulling down Gibbs
Feel that first breeze of the summer
With my brothers back together
Still I
I got Avodian love for this place
Take a look out on Tispaquin
What I’d give to go back
(Back to 1:05 in the song)
ALMA MATER
To the tune of Lavender Girl by Caamp
Each morning then
We’d jump out of our beds
screen doors creaked open
The courts was where we’d head
In the early hours
Our laughter rang out high
We would play all morning
Living summer paradise
But all good things
They must come to an end
The clock is always ticking
Down on tispaquin
I’ve never known
A home like this before
I can not bear to lose it
Nothing matters more
Music (Long)
Oh dont look now
Or the summers gonna pass you by
There’s no right way
to get back to the good old days
Time flies, the summer has passed
14, went by too fast
Benches stacked, look across the aisle
See my brothers
Each with, a tear in their eye
No way to know, what lies ahead
Please don’t tell me this is the end
Still I
I got Avodian love for this place
Take a look out on Tispaquin
What I’d give to go back
Cause I
I got Avodian love for this place
Still have 10 months, I have to wait
And I
I got Avodian love for this place
Take a look out on Tispaquin
Don’t know if I’ll be back
(Guitar cuts)
Cause I Blink my eyes, I’m awake again
Realize it was all just a dream
Sit in class, dreaming of summer
But I still, got a ways
Final goodbye now
To the place I can’t live without
As I drown in tears, the end comes near Avoda take me back to the start
The bunks stood bare
A ghost town among the pines
I whispered a thank you
To the home no longer mine
Oh brother how
Do the summers just fly right by
The things I’d give
To get back to the good old days
Final goodbye now
To the place I can’t live without
As I drown in tears, the end comes near Avoda take me back to the
Avoda take me back to the
Avoda take me back to the start
Avoda forever in my heart
WHITE mavericks
FREE CHOICE
Castle on the Hill
When I was 10 years old I left my home
When I was too young to be walking alone
And after the flags dropped down I was so homesick I broke down
I was younger then Take me back to when
I Found my heart and shed my fears
Made friends that last me through the years
Now 10 months without you, it’s so long
Here’s where I’ve grown Avoda, you’re my home
I’m on my way
Driving down Gibbs road today, can I stay?
Tears flow, I know the answer
And I’ll miss the way
Camp makes me feel surreal
So we watch the sunset
Over the view of Tispaquin
Now in bunk 14 and leading the rest of camp
Thinking bout the nights where we stayed up
FIGHT SONG
Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
You’ve got no one, you think
It’s fun to lose and to pretend
We’ve crushed you all in the dirt
You’re hopeless now, what will you do
We’ve won, you’ve lost oh, we’ve won
We cheer, You cry oh, we cheer
We rose, you broke, we rose
Hello, hello, hello
Yeah we fly high, levitating in the lake now, we did it
You have no chance, it’s all over
Here we are now, in the lake yeah
A Maverick, a winner
Dominated, it was easy
You’ll watch us jump in the lake
But at some point it must end
We stand divided on this fine night
But soon blue and white reunite
I was younger then, Take me back to when
We found this great place where dreams don’t fade
A paradise no place equates
Tonight my friends, we say goodbye for so long
Oh how we’ve grown
Please don’t make us leave home
I’m on my way
Turn left off Gibbs road today, can I stay?
Tears flow, I know the answer
And I love the way camp makes me feel surreal
So we watch the sunset over the view of Tispaquin
Over the view of Tispaquin
Over the view of Tispaquin
You’ll cry and scream when we are done
The mavericks have always been
And always will be dominant
We’ve won, you’ve lost oh
we’ve won
With blood and grit, We’re built to hit
We’ve won, you’ve lost oh
we’ve won
Hello, hello, hello
Mavericks came and ran this town
Can’t stop us, blew the house down
Lake-side losers, face the crown
Running headfirst, Hass is the worst
A Maverick, a winner
In the lake now, it was easy
One friend left before the rest (harry d)
One found a different quest (sammy)
Two twins made their presence known (drew/cole)
All still call Avoda home (plotty)
One’s younger brother now has his chance (gilly)
14 bonds forever last
Days feels so far
But they hold
The stories we tell when we’re old
And I’ve lost my way
Can I do it all again, one more day?
It’s hard to take no as an answer
Cause I miss the way
Camp made me feel
Surreal
Now I sit and realize,
Oh My time has run out here
Oh Where do I go from here
Oh what id give for one more year
ALMA MATER
Those Avoda summers
Sons and brothers
Letting go of
Memories
Where did the time go
We just met one another Avoda made me the man I want to be
Blue and white heads
This road has no ends
Just one more walk
From fourteen
Maybe we’ll miss out
When our times out
Last sunset over the lake
Can I stay just one more year
Those Avoda summers
Sons and brothers
Letting go of
Memories
Where did the time go
We just met one another Avoda made me the man I want to be
Summer’s ending
We’re reminiscing
Can our time stop ticking?
Is it time to cry?
Our voice’s soaring
Benches go tumbling
We are two different colors
But tonight we unify
Those Avoda summers
Sons and brothers
Letting go of
Memories
Where did the time go
We just met one another Avoda made me the man I want to be
So when we look back
At our journey
I would change nothing
My home for life
It’s time to pass on
Shirts and Traditions
And what we built right here
Won’t ever be broken down
Those Avoda summers
Sons and brothers
Letting go of
Memories
Where did the time go
We just met one another Avoda made me the man I want to be
WINTER GREEN
CHIEF CONSULTANT: Leon Dyer
EXECUTIVE HEAD JUDGES: Nate Goldberg, Max Kleinmann
HEAD JUDGES: Alex Shifman, Max Singer, Owen Sherman
ASSISTANT HEAD JUDGES: Reese Sock, Avery Kalish, David Borokhov, Eric Friedman
ARTS & ACADEMIA CONSULTANT: Ryan Wilkov
HEAD JUDGE AIDES: Adam Mann, Charlie Muller, Leo Steindecker
CAMP AVODA ADMINISTRATION
KEN SHIFMAN
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Wow – what an awesome summer! Another one for the history book as we approach Avoda 100 in just a couple of summers.
We started out the summer with two insanely hot days. But as a community we made it! Our regular days were awesome, Shabbats were fulfilling and relaxing, field trips were on point, and of course our special days were days to remember.
We had a few theme-lunches including the Avoda Masters golf lunch, and the Take Me Out to the Ballgame baseball lunch. Each was super fun as we had giveaways, contests, special foods, special menus, special desserts, and everything in between. Desert war was action-packed, Topsy Turvy day was a lot of fun including pizza for breakfast. And who could forget our Avoda Tournament sweep in 2025 in junior basketball, senior basketball, and senior soccer. This feat has not been accomplished for a good 10 to 12 years and we will savor it for quite some time. Color War of course promises to be a special week as always.
And I don’t check our photos and social media too much during the summer, but I did one day where Deena had posted all 25 things that we did in that day. I constantly marvel at how much we pack into any given day at camp and certainly on special days: more than most normal people can handle. But like I always say, we are camp people and we can do anything!
I would like to thank the many people for making this summer possible, successful, fun, collaborative, and most importantly for and about the kids!
I’d like to thank the campers first and foremost for choosing Camp Avoda and being the life and energy of Avoda. Bunk 14: You guys didn’t have a large group but you were awesome and handled yourselves with poise and pride. Also parents: thank you for being such down-to-Earth ambassadors for camp and for sending your boys here. I feel lucky to be
part of such a great community and have such amazing customers, friends, and partners.
CIT’s: you are always such an underrated group of camp and I salute you, appreciate your hard work, and look forward to having you on staff next year.
Behind the scenes in the offseason and during the summer we’ve got several groups of people who help camp thrive and succeed and that is our Board of Directors, our Trustees and our Alumni Committee. These people do not get paid, but they volunteer their time, insight, knowledge, energy, and in fact they even donate their money to support camp. They help make camp stable and successful. Thank you!
Our alumni are key stakeholders who visit a lot during the summer, keep people engaged, help us bring us campers, raise money for scholarship, and keep the spirit alive after campers and counselors are finished at camp. On June 30th this year we held our annual golf tournament where we had upwards of 100 people to raise money for camp and simply have a great time. My group did not come in last, which felt like a victory.
On a day-to-day basis I feel incredibly lucky to work with our administration: Ronni, Leon, Gary, and Nate - we are a very solid team and are great at making decisions on the fly, responding to things that need immediate attention, planning ahead, and supporting one another. I am proud of who we are, what we do, and how we do it.
Shoutout to our Jr Admins who were here part time or part of the summer and that’s Alex, Max S., Owen, and Max K. So great having you here for even part of another summer.
At the heart of running the day-to-day program and operations, we have our bunk counselors. We say it from day one, but your job is not easy, it’s complex, busy and different everyday. Thanks for all you do to keep Avoda spirited and making sure the kids are safe and having fun. Reese: Thanks for starting in the spring, running a safe and organized waterfront, teaching LGI, helping us bolster our fleet of boats each summer, and all that you do!
Our Infirmary has grown by leaps and bounds. Much of that is due to the leadership of Roberta Shaw who has recruited other amazing people, helped tighten up our protocols, and provides loving care for campers, CIT’s, and staff alike. The rest of our health team includes veterans and first-timers and I thank you all for taking such incredible care of our campers. We realize that the Infirmary is busy all day and all night and we salute you.
Our maintenance team keeps camp looking amazing starting with Joe and including our international staff as well as outside vendors who help us keep the camp looking clean and well-manicured. Thank you.
Our office staff is second to none and they do any task large or small, and support Ronni and me in a variety of meaningful ways. Your positive attitudes, smiles, can-do attitudes, and partnership make our day-to-day work enjoyable and allows us to run a successful camp.
A shout out and special nod to our arts staff and specialists who come in on a regular basis. Shane it’s been great to have you on board, and you have filled a much-needed role. Sarah, your creativity and special rapport with the kids makes the arts program a great balance to our overall program. And Abe, you continue to set your record setting streak as photographer and we appreciate your teaching kids, taking daily photos, yearbook photos and altering your style for us as needed. Deena - thanks for making us look good on our socials, for coming down to camp and managing the various marketing needs in helping us bolster our camper numbers and keep our community engaged and informed. Sharon - thanks for keeping the yearbook looking good delivering it on time!
Our Kitchen staff is second to none under Scott’s leadership. The food is excellent, varied and your flexibility is appreciated. The whole team works hard, very often in a hot kitchen, and we appreciate your keeping our hungry boys satisfied.
And of course – thanks to Jill Shifman for so many things! Running cooking, special events, helping with tours, doing errands, picking up camper meds, putting up with my summer schedule, and so much more! Love you and glad you are an integral member of the camp community.
We talk about being a good teammate at Avoda with the campers and staff and we certainly model it as a group and team! I couldn’t be prouder and more appreciative! Go Avoda!
Junior Admin staff 2025
Max Singer (on the phone), Owen Sherman, Alex Shifman, Nate Goldberg, Max Kleinmann
ronni saltzman guttin
A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Ronni, what year is this for you? Do you have Bunk 1 alumni? When is Color War breaking? Is there snack tonight? Can you get the stain out of my shirt? The laundry lost my League shirt. Can you call them? (Spoiler: it wasn’t lost—it was in someone else’s bag.) Who has the kitchen key? Can you print me a letter? A bunk list? The scores of the Red Sox game? That random thing my mom emailed me four days ago? Do you have any snacks? Where are the Pickleballs? The Ping Pong balls? Paddles? The new net? Can I change my elective? And just to be clear: All of this is before breakfast. On a Tuesday.
These aren’t just questions. They’re basically the soundtrack of summer. Because yes, this is year nine for me at Camp Avoda. Year ten kicks off October 1st (yes, we
GARY RABINOWITZ
MESSAGE FROM THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
measure time in Avoda years now). I don’t yet have any Bunk 1 alumni, but hey—you never know what summer has in store. I think back to my first summer, when the answer to every question was: “Hmm... maybe? I can check?”
Now, I know all the things. Well—except the code to that one door. But don’t worry—I have my workarounds. I’ve seen things. I have snacks. Now I’m the one with the questions: Can we squeeze this League game in before the rain starts? Wait—are you seriously a three-generation Avoda family?! What do you want from Dairy Queen? How many whistles do we even have left in the storage room?!
And honestly—who is luckier than me to be here at Camp Avoda this summer? (The answer is: no one) Not a question, I owe thanks to the campers and staff at Avoda, and especially to Ken, Leon, and Gary for helping me be able to answer the questions, but especially for helping me become a part of Camp Avoda!
IF YOUR CUP IS FULL, MAY IT BE AGAIN
As we approach the closing of the summer of 25 camp season, I am simply feeling full of gratitude and appreciation. The summers at Avoda make us all understand how lucky we are to have this experience and get to have our cups overflowing with joy and appreciation.
Being in the moment and understanding our fortunes is not easy and sometimes passes us by. Not here. Not now.
Thankful for the waterfront, the campus, the rec hall, the league games, the flagrushes, zooball games, hikes, bikes around the lake, hotdog eating contests, fireworks, the bunks, the movies, the climbing wall, pickleball games, the hockey rink, the intensity of desert war, the bunkos, the food, the songs, the mess hall energy, the shabbat services, the passion of color war, the athletic feats, the
creativity of the campers art and wood projects, deadzone, mud marines and the amazing race. We are blessed beyond most.
However, what I am most grateful for is our community. The alumni, the parents, the campers, counselors, CIT’s, the board of directors, the kitchen staff, the health staff, and the maintenance staff. (all the best in the league)
Our leadership team is beyond compare. Ken and Ronni were put on earth to run camp and Avoda is beyond lucky to have them. They excel in all areas and do it with kindness, strong leadership and compassion. Leon is a workhorse. If you are running a camp, a school, a company, a general store, or a nation, you want Leon on your team. I am indebted to them for allowing me to be a small part of the Avoda magic and let me be inspired every day.
Thanks to all who make this place the best. See you next summer!
CAMP AVODA STAFF 2025
ADIN EISLER
Two whole summers had passed since I was able to breathe the fresh air of Avoda, and touch the green grass of the field, and swim through the elegant tides of the Tispaquin. And although in the last two years I became E.M.T certified (which proved useful to have this summer), ran my own successful business, and was able to travel the world from Jordan to Greece to Paris and lived in Israel for a year, I still felt like I was missing one thing. That one thing was Avoda. As soon as I stepped into camp this summer, I knew instantly this was the place where I was supposed to be. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to come back. Avoda has, and always will be, in my life till the end. To my boys since my first year in bunk 8 shoutout 2k21 yall didn’t even hesitate to accept me back in after my years off. Shoutout the meat guy at Rio & the Avoda Fam chat. To the best barber in Middleborough, thanks for getting me right Gaby. Shout Max V for wrapping teffilin with me every so often. Shoutout Cy for almost winning the 4 mill scratch off. 5th hockey is back! What the Hecht. BOSSA NOVA & Yoga.
Bunk 1 what a summer, I hope I gave y’all as much joy at Avoda as I have had, good work Gessman and Spickler…And everyone else is #1
ZACK GESSMAN
JC Bunk 1 - 2k2214
JC Head of Fishing
Co Head of Archery
- just a swell guy
It’s crazy to think my first summer on staff is already coming to an end. If you told me a year ago I’d be sitting here writing this, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Being on staff felt like a huge step, and at times I didn’t know if I’d be able to keep up—but I did. I made it through, and I’m hungry for more.
To Bunk 1: You were the first campers I ever had, and I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better group to start with. Watching you guys grow, laugh, compete, and just be yourselves this summer has meant more to me than you probably know. I hope I taught you something—whether it was how to push yourself, be a better teammate, or just how to have fun—and I can say for sure that you all taught me just as much in return. Every inside joke, every late-night talk, and every moment we shared helped shape this summer into something I’ll never forget.
2k/22/14 — my 14. I don’t even know where to start. Running pre-camp with you guys was something I’ll remember forever. From the chaos to the quiet moments, every second with you made this summer that much more meaningful. I love being with you all and couldn’t be more grateful for the memories we’ve made. You made me feel like I truly belonged here.
To the scumba-Jon and Kaplan. Love you boys forever and ever.
To Adam Levy. I’m so happy you decided to come back this year last year just didn’t feel right. Now that we’re back Ik in a year we gonna be running camp.
Spickler. I honestly don’t think I could’ve asked for a better co. We had our ruff moments but in the end everything worked out.
And a shout out to Eric even though Jonah isn’t here we still rep the ri boys wells
SC Bunk 1 - 2k2114
- Head of Wilderness
ETHAN SPICKLER
JC Bunk 1 - 2k2214
Co Head of Archery
Co Head of Chillin
It’s crazy to think my first summer on staff is already coming to an end. If you told me my first year here in bunk 12 that I’d be sitting here writing this, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Mainly based on the fact that I’m a 2 year 14er but regardless of how long my camper experience was I’m here as a councilor and that just goes to prove how special this place is. Being on staff felt like a huge step, and at times I didn’t know if I’d be able to keep up mainly due to my lack of camper experience. But I didn’t do to bad in my opinion. To Bunk 1: You were the first campers I ever had, and I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better group to start with. Watching you guys grow, laugh, compete, and just be yourselves this summer has meant more to me than you probably know. I hope I taught you something— whether or not it was personal responsibility or what it means to be a camper here at Camp Avoda— and if you didn’t learn anything I’m glad I got to see you guys grow throughout the summer and watch how this camp has shaped you so far. 2k/22/14 - my 14. I don’t even know where to start. Running precamp with you guys was something I’ll remember forever. From the chaos to the quiet moments, every second with you made this summer that much more meaningful. Even though I was late to the party I will never forget how all of you guys took me in on day one and showed me what it meant to have brothers. To the scumba- Kaplan your ginger and we love that this year wouldn’t be the same without you here . Gessman- I couldn’t have asked for a better 1st co this summer hanging out with you in the bunk has genuinely been a blast! Adam- LEAVYYYYYYYYY
MAX JACOBY
Bunk 2• 2SC • 2k2014
Assistant Head Water Front, Head of Archery
It’s hard to believe that after over 10 years spent on the shores of Lake Tispaquin, I am finally in the position that my counselors were my first year here. As my third year on staff comes to an end, I have such an appreciation for the work that my counselors did to give me the best time of my life and gave me a place I now call home. As I came into this summer I was unsure if this would be my last year. I have gotta say they every time I drive back down 23 Gibbs Road I fall in love with this place all over again. I would like to give a shoutout to:
2k20: We are almost there. Our time is coming, we will be to the leaders on staff and I could not be more excited. Our numbers were good this year and while I know that we will continue to shrink every year I also know we will continue to show up. I could not be happier with the group of men that I get to call my brothers and I can’t wait to run it back with you all next year.
Bunk 2: Boys, that’s a wrap. It’s crazy to think my time at Camp Avoda began a few years before you were born, I guess that just shows you how special of a place this is. For most of you, it was your first summer here. It wasn’t always pretty and you boys definitely drove me crazy sometimes, but I can say without a shadow of a doubt you all belong here at Camp Avoda! As I look to the end of my journey at camp, I hope you all take advantage of the fact that yours is just beginning. Keep coming back, grow together as a 14 and fall in love with this place just like I did.
SAM KAPLAN
JC Year 2025 Where did the time go? If you would have asked me 9 years ago what I thought it would be like on staff, this is not what I would have told you, but I could not have asked for anything different. I have now called Avoda home for 9* summers and while a lot can change in a year, SC seems to have a nice ring too it!
2k2214 It’s crazy to see the numbers dwindling. It feels like yesterday we were all huddled up getting ready to walk out for song fest 14 year, now it’s just a distant cherished memory. You guys are the best, 2k22 for life.
Max Jacoby Thanks for showing me the ropes from day one. Your veteran talent helped bunk 2 run smoothly. You were an awesome Co and I hope to see you back here in June.
Bunk 2 You guys always gave me a run for my money! The jokes, the laughs, even single one of you should be extremely proud of the independence you gained this summer and should plan to come back for 7 weeks next summer. And Yes, I have my phone.
THEO KLEINMANN
Every summer that I can remember has been spent at Avoda and every year it keeps getting better, there is no place I would rather be.
2k2114: it was incredible to see the numbers we had this summer and I’m excited to see you guys for all the summers to come.
JC Bunk 2 - 2k2214
- Ropes Staff - Birthday Staff
SC Bunk 5A - 2k211
ERIC FRIEDMAN
JC Bunk 3 - 2k2214
4th Lt White Raptors
- Asst. Head Judge Winter Green - Jr Softball Coach - Jr Soccer Coach
JC Year, Summer 2025. I can’t believe I’m writing my own staff profile. I used to sit down with my Avodian during the offseason and read my favorite counselors’ staff profiles and never acknowledge I would one day be writing one myself. I’m extremely grateful I have the opportunity to come back to Avoda this summer and be on staff. 9 years down, and I still feel like I have more memories to be made at Camp.
2k22 - You guys are awesome. You’re my brothers for life and always have my back. I’m so glad we had good numbers this summer and most of us were able to come back. I hope most of us can come back next summer. This summer’s been one wild ride, and I’m hoping it finishes out as fun as it’s gone so far.
#TFNF
Bunk 3 - This bunk was full of fun. The Avodians you are all becoming makes me filled with gratitude. Even if you guys didn’t clean or waiter, I’m thankful to have been your counselor and I hope I contributed to this being one of your best summers ever.
Raps - We held down DW so hard. Very thankful to have been a part of your staff. 14 never loses. Ryan - Thanks for being my Co this summer. I appreciate everything we’ve done together. Having a brother from 2214 in my bunk meant everything for me. I hope you don’t fade camp next summer. Hecht and Cy - You better be back next summer. We’re gonna run it.
Senior Staff - Thank you for taking me in as one of your own. I loved getting closer with all of you the summer went along SC Year 2026 up next!
RYAN JACOBY
JC Bunk 3, 2k2214, 5th LT Blue Wolverines, J-Hoops Coach, Co-Athletic Director, Head of Tether Balls
2k2214: So happy to be back with this many numbers. The boys did it right this year. Went by so fast I can’t believe we are already done. Hopefully back next year with good numbers. Love you guys.
Blue Wolverines: Can’t believe we got this team. This staff is actually unreal. Hard work will pay off. I’m so excited.
Bunk 3: Great summer boys. Was a blast wouldn’t have picked a different bunk to run my first year on staff. You guys were a blast. Ric: Fire co. Was mad fun. They were never touching our shutters.
Cy, Jon, Avi: My absolute boys, Love you guys. Hopefully a few more left in us don’t know if I could run it again without you guys. See you fellas in the off season.
The best summer I’ve been here for without a doubt. Staff always wins. BENNNAYYYYY
YANIV MALSA
This summer on Camp Avoda was one of the greatest experience I’ve ever had. Especially given that it was my first time in the US. Every day was full of emotions and energy from all staff and campers. I’m proud and gratefull that I came to this camp and had the opportunity to be part of that. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.
I wanna shoutout Ronni on welcoming me warmly and nicely to the camp. I wanna also shoutout DJ on helping me everytime I had difficulties to understand new things here.
DAVID BOROKHOV
SC Bunk 4 - 2k2114
- Sr Soccer Coach - Co-Head of Ige
- Waterfront Staff - Black Hawks
General - Assistant Head Judge
Wintergreen
And just like that, I have found myself writing another staff profile as the summer starts winding down. Wow, I can’t believe it’s my 9th summer at Camp Avoda. This is truly the greatest place on earth, and there is no place I’d rather spend my summer than here at Avoda. It’s crazy to think I get to work with my brothers and have the time of my life all summer long. I think back to my first year in 2016, bunk 4 and only 10 years old, never thinking I would come this far as a Senior Counselor and being here for 9 years. The bonds I’ve made with all of the staff and, more importantly, my campers have been an incredible experience. I couldn’t picture my summer anywhere else. There is something special about this place, and every year it gets better and better. It’s a place you can’t describe, and when my friends from home ask, “Why are you going to a summer camp? Aren’t you a little too old for that?” I respond with “you wouldn’t understand”. And how could they? This place is so special, you can’t explain to friends at home or anyone else outside of Avoda. I’ve met some of the most special people here, people I get to call my brothers. Now for some shout-outs Bunk 4: You boys were a special group and made my summer amazing. Hopefully, I made your summer amazing as well, seeing you boys laugh, make jokes, and just being a 14 made me so happy every day. You boys are a tight group, and I hope you stay close forever. As I said at the beginning of the summer, you boys are not just friends, but brothers, and most of you being alums also make your group that much closer, this is a special place and i hope each and every one of you comes back as long as you can because there is truly no other place like Avoda. Love you, boys can’t wait to see you guys next summer. Zachary: Mush bro… My boy, all those FaceTime calls months before camp, and now look, everything we talked about coming to life. I can’t wait to do it all again next summer with you on staff. I love you like a brother, and all those times in Sr soccer when you were coming at me, keep that same energy. Keep coming back dude, this place is truly amaz-
ing, and I can’t wait for you to experience staff at Camp Avoda. Love you bro, we running it next year. Black Hawks: WHAT UP HAWKS! Love you boys, I know it was Bots, but I hope you guys had as much fun as I did. Those 2 days, the camp loved it, the intensity was high, and we came out with the dub. Avery, my guy, love you dude, me and you running that team was awesome, and I can’t wait for next year, we’re really gonna run it bro. Being down 163 after day 1, everyone thinking we had no chance of winning, coming down flagrush and then going into rushes, was truly electric for the camp. What a way to win. 2k2114: Look at us now, running staff with so many numbers. I truly love you guys; you made my summer amazing. There is no other group of people I’d rather spend my summer with than you boys. We need these numbers next year, can’t wait to run staff again. Boys, we are getting older, and it sucks, but these are the moments we need to cherish. I can’t believe that I’ve known you guys since I was 10. We are a special group that’s for sure, and we’re really gonna run camp for a long time. Love you boys, don’t change, and stay in touch. Mathew: Steinerrr, my guy, when I heard you were coming back to camp, I wanted you as my co so bad, and thankfully you were. You made my summer great, and spending time with you and the bunk was electric. Come back next summer, dude, love you. DJ: YOU’RE THE BOY. Come back next year, the ninja course NEEDS YOU! Benny: Holy Bennerssss, guy, you got mad LBs this summer, but as always, what a summer it was. Loved talking with you about camp before it started, and I can’t wait for next summer when we truly are gonna run DW and CW. I love you bro, you’re my brother. Stay in touch, and hopefully I’ll see you and the boys at Cuse. Tyler: ROSE D, PLEASE COME BACK NEXT YEAR I MISSED YOU SO MUCH. I LOVE YOU BRO. Camp Avoda I love this place. I can’t wait to be back next year for another great summer and hope this place never changes!
SC Bunk 3
MATTHEW STEINDECKER
So amazing to be back at Avoda this year. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to be back here with my brothers at the place I love. I did not expect to be here at all after having an internship in Israel locked in since December. But after the war started and realizing I was coming home, getting a job here was the first thing on my list. To Ken, Ronni, and Leon, thank you all so much for making my summer. To all the campers reading this, come back as long as you can. This is the best place in the world. Not coming back 14 and CIT year was the worst decision I ever made and I hope none of you have to miss it like I did. 2k21: We ran it up on staff this year. I love you boys so much. Keep the brotherhood together. You boys made my summer amazing. Brothers for life. Greatest 14 on earth. Bunk 4: When I came late to camp, I was scared I would be put in a bunk I wouldn’t like. I could not have been more wrong. You guys are hilarious, crazy, and awesome. You guys are the best 14 in camp right now and it’s not even close. I am so happy I got to be your counselor. Keep coming back, all of you, you won’t regret it! Borky: Thanks for being a great co. Could not have been happier to run it up with you all summer long. We killed it. DJ: thanks for being a great co and always helping out. Leo: I love you bro. I know we aren’t always super close but I want to change that. I am glad I got to spend the summer with you. Don’t worry about college - you’re going to have a great time no matter what. I can’t wait for the next chapter in both of our lives and all the memories we are going to make together. Keep growing taller and working harder. Love you! White Mavs: I am so hype for this week. I can’t wait to kill it with you all. Jason- thanks for taking me as your 5th. Let’s go boys - in the lake! - Lieutenant John McCain Avoda: Thank you for all the memories I have made here. Thank you for raising me from a little kid all the way until adulthood. Camp is like nothing else in the world and the brotherhood here is unmatched. If this was it, it was a great ride and a great time. Love you Avoda forever.
DJ VETSTEIN
Wow, as my 9th summer comes to an end it feels incredibly strange being on staff instead of being a camper. It was an absolute pleasure being able to be a counselor to these very loud but great kids. Thanks to these kids and everyone else at camp I feel I have grown exponentially since last summer and I cannot thank everyone enough. Let’s keep the ninja program going strong these next years! Even though camp doesn’t feel like it used to now that I am on staff, it is still way too good to go anywhere anytime soon.
Bunk 4: You guys are absolutely wild and definitely tested my patience at times but I couldnt have asked for better kids. You made this year amazing and I’ll miss you all.
Bork and Stein: I loved holding down the fort with you guys this summer. You made my first year in staff great and I’ve grown tremendous respect for you both.
2k22: Our first summer on staff went well. We had a great group of us here this summer and let’s make it the same for next summers to come. I love you all.
Adam: Unfortunately our chance of being CO’s slipped away this year but let’s make it happen next year. Keep coming back
Avoda is truly a special place and I encourage everyone to come back for as long as they can.
JC Bunk 4 - 2k2214 - Head of Ninja
SC Bunk 4 - 2k2114 - 5th Lt White Mavericks
TYLER DEROSA
CY GREENBLATT
My eighth year at Avoda has been a blast. Shoutout to Bunk 5A and my co-counselors for the amazing summer. Every year I come back is better than the last. I cherish all the new friendships I make each year—shoutout to Adin. I encourage everyone to return to camp for as long as possible. Another special shoutout to everyone who hosted me for day off (Eric, Kaplan, Jon, Avi, Jack). Biggest shoutout to 2k2214—my boys for life. -Cy
JC Bunk 5A - 2k2214
SC Bunk 5A, 2K2114
ALEX LEIBMAN
SC Bunk 5A, 2k2114
4th Lieutenant Blue Wolverines, Team Avoda Coach (Tennis), Head of Leiber
Bunk 5A: You guys are so weird and hilarious. I can tell by the endless questions you guys ask me, how much you love Avoda. Keep coming back every year, it only gets better. Cy, Theo, Derosa: Although we were never actually all together at the same time, I think we did a pretty good job running the bunk. Thanks for the single and a great summer. Blue Wolverines: Ever since I found out I wasn’t on a team last year, I’ve been waiting for this week. Win or lose I know we’re gonna have a blast cuz we got all the boys… but let’s get the win for sure. It was always us. 2k21: All of you guys are my brothers for life. Keep feining Avoda. Let’s stay active every off season. Hass: Hassdenotaaaa! I hope I “loosened the collar” enough for you this year. When you find yourself a girl one day, you’ll understand it all.
Max V: You’re just so cheddar it’s unreal. Tragic we’re not gonna be together for this last week but I’ll always be down to chill with the shrek in the future. Gorno: Call me up and I’ll run you in tennis anytime, anywhere. Gabi: Thanks for the cut. Stay ragebaiting. Benny: From Blue Bears freshman to the Ring Leader to Huskies Aides to Senior staff it’s been an elite 11 year run. Let’s end on a high note this week.
Avoda: It’s pretty devastating to be writing this right now, but with the way things will likely go, this was my last summer. This place raised me and has provided me with so many amazing friends and memories that I’ll keep with me forever. I’m forever grateful for you and all that you’ve done for me.
AVERY KALISH
SC bunk 5B - 2K2114
- Assistant Head Judge Winter Green - Ropes Staff
- Waterfront Staff
- 1st LT Black Hawks
- Head of snake of the day
It is crazy to believe that I have now been at camp for a decade, something I wouldn’t change for the world. Writing this staff profile, I realized that this year flew by way too fast and even though it’s cliche, you really need to cherish every moment here because time moves faster than you think. I don’t think this is my last summer just yet, so I’m looking forward to being back here when the moment comes.
Shoutouts… 2K21 - you guys are my brothers for life, I feel like with every year I grow even closer with you guys and your dedication to Avoda and our brotherhood means so much to me. The fact that we have around the same amount of people on senior staff that we did our 14 year is unheard of, further proving that we are the best 14 camp has EVER SEEN!!!!!! It’s gonna feel a lot different next year with not everybody here, and it will definitely be a tough pill to swallow. So much love for everyone. Bunk 5B - you guys were great this summer and I am super proud of all of you getting more unified as a bunk as the summer progressed, you guys are great campers and great people and I am looking forward to seeing what you guys become as the years go on, you guys are gonna run this place one day.
Adam and Yotam - you guys were great co counselors, we had a great year and I appreciate all your hard work and everything you did for the bunk, we had a great run!
Leiber, Theo, Cy, Cooper, Derosa - I loved sharing a cabin with you guys and it really made my experience in bunk 5 that much better - I hope all of you come back next year so we can make more memories. Also your counselor area was dope, nice job on that.
Bork - what can I say, best BOTS team ever, shoutout Black Hawks.
Reese, Bagels, and Itchy - Thanks for letting me kick it on the canoe trip with you guys, it was one of the best moments of my summer and I had a blast. Canoe trip trip canoe.
Ropes staff: It was a pleasure being your head, safe to say I definitely earned my bonus. Camp Avoda, you will have a place in my heart forever, there is nowhere I’d rather be.
ADAM LEVY
It’s crazy to think my first summer on staff is already coming to an end. If you told me a year ago I’d be sitting here writing this, I probably wouldn’t have believed you as i did not return last year but here we are. Being on staff was so much different from my time as a camper, and at times I didn’t know if I’d be able to keep up—but I did. I made it through, and I’m eager for more.
To Bunk 5B: You were the first campers I ever had, and I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better group to start with. Watching you guys grow, laugh, compete, and just be yourselves this summer has meant more to me than you probably know. I hope I taught you something—whether it was how to properly clean the bunk, camp traditions, how to make your days at camp more enjoyable—and I can say for sure that you all taught me just as much in return. Every inside joke, every late-night game of mafia, and every moment we shared helped shape this summer into something I’ll never forget.
2k/22/14 — my 14. I don’t even know where to start. I really didnt think that id still be here in camp but you guys are my reason for returning. Running pre-camp with you guys was something I’ll remember forever. Through long days and with busy schedules we have always stayed together. I love being with you all and couldn’t be more grateful for the memories we’ve made. You made me feel like I truly belonged here.
To Zack Gessman. I can’t believe you convinced me to return but I am so grateful you did. You have always made me comfortable to be who I am and I couldn’t ask for a better lot buddy! To my cos. Avery and Yotam, you both were amazing to work with and I couldn’t have asked for anyone better. You both guided me through my JC summer and I am so greatful for that.
YOTAM MITERANI
This is my first year at Camp Avoda, and as an Israeli counselor, it has been an amazing experience. After a long military service and a difficult period, arriving at such a calm and welcoming place felt like coming home to family. From the moment camp started, it became a fun and meaningful experience that’s hard to describe in words.
Whether it’s the supportive staff—who understand the language barrier and never give up on you—or the curious campers constantly asking questions about Israel, every moment has been special.
To Cabin 5B: You’re great kids, full of energy and life. I was so happy to meet you and I hope to see you again next year.
Adam and Avery: I was glad to share the cabin with you. I really think we made a great team. I enjoyed getting to know you, and I hope we stay in touch and meet again soon.
DJ: You were the first guy I met from the team at camp, and we clicked right away. You’re a great person with tons of energy—and allergies, lol. Keep showing everyone what it means to be a ninja, and don’t forget to stay in touch!
Jason, Chuck, and Reese: Thank you for all your help and guidance as Cabin 14 counselors. You made this summer easier and helped me understand how things work. I really appreciate it and hope to see you again in the future.
To the admins: Thank you for all your support during camp—listening, encouraging, and helping me give it my all. I’m very grateful and hope to see you again soon, whether in Israel or back at camp.
JC bunk 5B - 2k2214
SC Bunk 5B
JONATHAN RUBIN
Nine summers down and we’re onto the tenth. I’m grateful to have had my guys around me for these summers on end and this first summer on staff was nothing but perfect.
2k22- another year down with the boys. Feels like we got bigger in energy this year and I couldn’t have been happier about it. Taking over on staff as Jcs with you guys has given be the best 2 months I’ve had here and we only going up from here.
Bunk 6- Felt like I got the best of both worlds this year with these guys. First month was a rowdy time full of laughs and trouble that I’ll remember as my staff years go on. The calmer connected vibe of the second month campers brought a different kind of energy to the cabin with the same amount of laughs. Happy to have been your counselors boys. Roll6
Lot D- Boys we locked down the trap 24/7. To Peljo, Theo, Bagels, Itchy, Reese, Gessman, Adam, Kap, and the OG Rose D. Couldn’t ask for a better crew.
Shab- Couldn’t believe I got another summer with one of my own. Having you as my co could not have been a better situation for us to rock. We held down the crib and I’m grateful to have had you by my side.
NATHAN SHABASHOV
JC Year, Summer 2025
I can’t believe it’s finally my turn to write a staff profile. As my ninth summer at Avoda comes to a close, I want to thank the people who made this one so great.
Jon – Thanks for being my Co this summer. I’ve appreciated everything we’ve done together. Having a brother from 2214 in the bunk meant the world to me.
2K22 – I was so glad to see how many of us came back. Thanks for making this summer and every other one so unique and special. I hope most of us can return next year.
This summer’s been one wild ride, and I’m hoping it finishes as strong as it’s been so far.
JC Bunk 6, 2k2214
JC bunk 6 - 2k2214
MAX VEKSLER
SC Bunk 6 - 2k2114
- 3rd LT White Mavericks
- 2nd LT Blue Agency
- Head of Swim - Waterfront Staff - EA Staff - LIZ REP
JACK WEXLER
JC Bunk 6 2k2214
Well well well. The time has come for me to be writing this profile again and it’s been a summer. Avoda has and always will be my home. Being here at avoda fills me with pride and happiness to be back with all my boys. Staff we did it again, we lacked in the Liz but we had a great summer all together. 2k21: Boys I love all of y’all. We got insane numbers this year and it’s been awesome. Running staff as a 14 has been a pleasure and we have the potential to do the same next year. Would be great if we get the same numbers next year and we don’t make this summer our last. Growing up with yall has been a blessing. 2k21 forever. Jason: My brother. We always have a great time together. You’ve taken me in for doff and treated me like family. We ran cdubs together and had a great time all summer long. I’m hype that you’re back and I hope to be too for next year. To many more nights sponsored by TSL. Alex: You’ve always been my brother. You’ve always treated me like family. It’s all love and i’m excited to compete against you this week. 2k23: Please bring back the energy we need for the Liz next year. Y’all have the potential to do it. To my CO’s in bunk 6: Much love to all you boys. We had a great time and we held it down. Keep coming back. Getting to senior staff it only gets better. Enjoy your guys first year of college! My Syracuse brothers: Avoda runs on Cuse! Get hype for school, it’s been awesome getting to spend our school year and our summers all together and I’m excited for 3 more years with yall!!! White Mavericks: Couldn’t be more excited for this week. We’re gonna kill it. Let’s have a good time!!!
Bunk 6 - throughout all, this summer has been an unforgettable one. I have enjoyed getting to know you guys and watching all of you grow.
Vex Jon Shob - thank you guys for being the best cos would not have been the same without you.
2k2214 - can’t believe we are counselors now. This summer has been a blast and I hope to run it back with you all next summer
MAX LEAVITT
SC Bunk 7, 2k2014, Head of Archives, Head of CH, Head of Rec Hall
As the summer winds down, I can only look back and feel grateful and lucky to be back at the best place on earth for another summer. While I’m unsure if it’s my last, it’s been one hell of a ride. This summer has been filled with ups and downs, but it has fostered new friendships, deepened old ones, and harbored a lifetime of fun and happiness.
2k20: Our numbers shrunk yet again, but we remained firm and showed why we’re the best 14 in camp. I wouldn’t want to be here with anyone else and I hope as many of us keep coming back each year.
Bunk 7: it was a wild summer, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Keep coming back, stay as long as you can, you guys have a bright future.
Danel: it was fire having you as a co this summer. We were always on the same page and it made everything easy and fun.
Avoda: thank you for giving me the greatest summers for the last 13 years and I hope I can make it one more.
DANEL ROZMAN
SC Bunk 7, 2k2124
Head of Makerspace
Head of Darnell
And just like that my 6th summer at Avoda is over. To go from weekend warrior all the way to senior staff feels unreal. Each day both good and bad, I wouldn’t want to spend it anywhere else than at Gibbs Rd. I don’t think I’ll ever be ready to say goodbye for what could be my final summer here, but I’m grateful for everything these summers have brought. I can’t imagine a summer without this place.
2k2114: Senior staff and we still have so many numbers. I wouldn’t want anyone else to be by my side all these summers. Love you boys.
Bunk 7/8: You guys were crazy this summer and I can’t wait to see you all grow as people and a 14. You all are leaders and soon enough will run camp and I can’t wait to see it.
Shabashov: Best Makerspace staff around, we gotta run again poker soon.
Gorno: Run back the Minecraft world?
Avery: Meet me at the courts again we gotta settle this 1v1.
JASON HECHT
JC bunk 8 - 2k2214 - 3rd Lt Blue Agency - 4th Lt White Mavericks
My eighth summer back at Avoda and my first on staff and I could not have asked for a better group to be with. I am especially grateful for every year in my camp experience to be an improvement on the last, with no exception this year.
Bunk 8, you guys were so fun to be with. I might have told some of you, but I requested your bunk from the start. While we may have had some rocky parts throughout the summer, and while you guys probably preferred to not listen, I would choose to be with you every time. I’m lookin to forward to seeing what you all do in summers to come.
Hass, thank you for being a great co. We made the best of the 16v2 for sure. Had a great summer with you even though you do no work.
White Mavericks, so excited for this week. Staff, we’ve been working so hard, we are so prepared, I am so confident we will win.
2k2214, you guys are my brothers. Such a successful JC year and I am so glad it happened with you. I am so happy that most of us are planning on coming back next year.
ETHAN HASS
SC Bunk 8 - 2K2114
- General Blue Agency
- 2nd LT Blue Wolverines
- League Commissioner
- Avoda Council - Sr. Soccer Coach
- Services Staff - Co-Head of Weights - Head of Golf
- Head of DaNota - Co-Head of Cheddar - Head of the Mic
Wow, what a summer it’s been. Feels like I was driving up to Mass yesterday and now I’m leaving in a week. This summer was an absolute roller coaster and I’m so appreciative I can keep coming back to such a special place. To all people considering, come back for as long as you can. Make it work. There’s nothing like Camp Avoda! Bunk 8 - What a ride. I think I lost track of how many times you guys played volleyball during bunk cleanup, skipped showertime, and stayed up talking at night until 3 am. This summer was definitely a little messy, but you guys are an awesome group of kids and are probably closest 14 in camp. Definitely a few things to work on for next summer, but you guys are awesome Avodians and I know you’ll be here for a while. Hecht - You were actually the best JC I could of asked for as a co. You’re the man, and even though it took you a while to come out of your shell, everyone’s happy you did. Wasn’t easy for us this summer, but we made it work. I know you’ll be here for a while and wish you the best at Wake this year. 2k21 - How are we above 100% retention? This year we all somehow got even closer and I’m blessed to be a part of this 14. I can’t wait to see all of you during the year and hopefully again next summer, because we’ll probably gain a few more kids too. Love you boys to death. Benny and Vex - This summer was fire and we’re going to roll that right into school this year. Cuse runs on Avoda and I’m happy I have you boys to hang out with 12 months out of the year now. I’ll see y’all in like a week. Gaby - We probably had the hardest commissioning job ever with coaches this year, but it ran like a well-oiled machine. DW didn’t go our way, but it’s a coin flip anyway. You probably the most bipolar person I know but wouldn’t trade our closeness for anything. Love you bro. Leib - Can’t wait to win Avoda couple again. I hope we did. The first 2 weeks were hard without you, I’m so happy you made the last 6 work this year. Roommates in NYC in a few. Chuck - Starting in May I knew we’d get chirped all summer, but you’re the guy and I’m so glad we got even closer this year. VEG was a blast with you and I know this upcoming week will be too. I’m definitely going to slide to Indiana this fall. Thanks for helping me get my handicap down too, let me know if you need help with your 60º. Blue Agency - Didn’t go our way boys, and that’s on me. I couldn’t have asked for any more from any one of you. This one definitely stung, but I’m here for you boys whenever you need me. Blue Wolverines - I can’t describe how hype our staff is for the upcoming week. We know we’re going to have a blast with you guys and I know we’ll be in that lake on night 7. There’s really nowhere like this place, so to all the younger kids reading this, stop and think about how great it is that you get to be a part of this community. Love all of you boys. Thanks for a great summer!
GABY GOLDBERG
SC Bunk 9 - 2k2114
- 2nd LT White Mavericks
- 1st LT Blue Agency
2k2114-I love all of you guys. So happy we had such good numbers this year and that we’re all coming back next year Again. My best friends in the world and we still have a lot of time to go so this won’t be too sad yet. what
White Mavericks-Let’s have a good week. Only have to put in the work now. Victory ‘25
SAM PELJOVICH
SC bunk 9, 2k2114
White Raptors 2nd Lieutenant, Blue Wolverines 3rd Lieutenant, Co-Head of Ropes, Avodian Staff, Head of Off, Co-Head of Knowing a Place, Host of Avoda Love Island.
Finally made it to the 10 year club and it’s been 11 summers since my first one on Tispaquin. I am forever grateful to this place as it is the greatest camp, job, and place in the world.
2K2114: I dont know what things will look like next summer, but I know we came back 15 strong this summer and that is one of the coolest things in the world. We’re missing Brayer Demeo and Ocher and besides that, everybody is here. Can’t wait for next one with you boys.
Raps: Griff, Benny, Bagels, Ric, David, Jonny. Each one of you was a huge part of making this my first ever Desert War win. I am grateful to you all and any camper that put their body on the line and left their heart out on the field for the White Raptors. Thank You.
Wolverines: How’d they let us get this team. The week will speak for itself and I just can’t wait. Hopefully Love Island is a hit
Gaby: You’re the boy, you’re so cheddar, and extremely humble too. All seriousness I couldn’t have been happier walking into the main office on day 1 than learning that you would be my co. We absolutely ran ish this summer and it’ll be an even better one next year. We’ll be on a team together soon.
Bunk 9: As much as I gave you guys dirt, it was all out of love for you guys. A great group of campers with a ton of potential to be great Avodians. Keep coming back as much as you can and hopefully I’ll get to see you guys in 14.
Raps City, Go Blue, 2k2114. Love you all, what a summer it was.
SAM GORNSTEIN
SC bunk 10, 2K2114
4th Lt Blue Agency, General Red Storm, Tennis Team Coach, Head of Tennis, Co-head of swim, Head of Robocop
It’s insanely hard to believe that the summer is almost over, but I also couldn’t be happier with how it’s gone. With this most likely being the last summer I spend on the shores of Tispaquin, I can’t express enough gratitude for the place that has shaped who I am today. Avoda has genuinely raised me since 2014, and I wouldn’t change a single thing.
2k2114: 110% retention rate goes crazy, especially our SC year. Couldn’t ask for a better group of people to run staff with.
Wilkov and Avi: Thanks for holding down the fort with me.
Bunk 10: As annoying as you guys could be this year, I’m really proud of how much you’ve all grown as a group this summer. You guys are truly ready to become leaders at this camp and I hope I get to see you in action over the next few years.
Blue Agency: It was a tough loss but I wouldn’t want to do it with any other group of people. Hass thanks for giving me a shot to prove my stuff.
Leiber: I’ll miss our tennis runs. Best rivalry in Avoda.
Avoda: Never change. This truly is the greatest place on earth
AVI ROCHWERGER
JC
10 - 2k2214
Eight years at this camp, and it’s kind of surreal that I’m now writing my own staff profile. At the beginning of the summer, I was unsure about returning to camp this year—but ultimately, I realized there’s truly no place I’d rather spend my summers than here. This place is my second home, and looking back, I can’t imagine this summer without being at camp. First off, I want to thank everyone who helped me learn the ropes of being a staff member—whether that was administration, senior staff, or my fellow junior counselors. Everyone was incredibly supportive and offered unconditional help the entire time.
To Bunk 10: As you guys grow older in your Avoda careers, you’ll realize that camp only gets better. It was a pleasure being your counselor this year. While we had our ups and downs, I saw each of you start to grow into true Avodians and future leaders at this camp. I encourage all of you to come back—because from here, it only gets better. Wilkov and Gorno: Thank you both for an awesome summer. I really appreciated having two senior staff members as my co-counselors to learn from. I think we held down the fort pretty well, and it was genuinely enjoyable having you both in the bunk—not just as coworkers and mentors, but as friends. 2K2214: You guys are my boys—there’s never a dull moment between us. It’s incredible that we still share the same bond and friendship we had as campers, even though we don’t spend as much time together now. I love you boys forever. Jon: My guy—loved having my trip buddy with me throughout the summer. Cy: My day one since 2017. Eight years later and we’re on staff together. Crazy how time flies. Ryan: From the dirty tick to camp—it’s always a blast. To Sammy: It was awesome being at camp with you as a 14er. Having a brother here is really special, and I loved seeing you have a great time with your boys. (Still not a better DW player than me—Mickey MVP.) Avoda: Thank you for another great summer. I love you forever.
Bunk
RYAN WILKOV
SC Bunk 10 - 2k2014 - Head of Avodian
- Head of Services - Ropes Staff
- CW Arts & Academia Consultant
- Head of Fruits & Vegetables
- Avoda’s Fastest Walker and Slowest Driver - Head of High Standards
Did you know that back in the day, staff profiles used to take up multiple pages? On that note, I wrote WAY too much. They wouldn’t let me put it in. So you can use the internet to read it. Go to sites.google.com/view/wilkovprofile2025.
TL,DR: I have reached the point where I am happy with my time here and I could leave, although I just might not, since this place is heaven on earth.
It’s been the greatest summer yet, and I have all of you to thank. So let’s just do a few shoutouts, why don’t we.
2k20 - How happy I am that we’re still going strong despite our numbers, and still maintaining such a clean CW/DW record. You guys are the realest Avoda has seen yet, and you are all true friends. I am so blessed to call you my brothers. Bunk 10 - Somehow I got over my attachment issues. You were such a fun bunk to have, and you were all so responsible and respectful, that I had no life lessons to instill on you guys. You made my summer so enjoyable and I’m glad I got to make yours too. See you next Torsion Saturday. Gorno & Avi - Thanks for getting the bunk food
GRIFFIN BLOOMSTEIN
Bunk 12, SC, 2k2014
General White Raptors, 1st LT. White Mavericks, SR Softball Head Coach, Head of Puck, Head of A/V
Coming back to camp this Summer has definitely been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Internships are absurdly overrated and you will never regret coming back to camp so always come back. Avoda is truly one of the most special places on earth and once you realize that it becomes even better. 2k2014: we don’t have the numbers we once had but glad we still got enough of us back. Hopefully next year is the same. Bunk 12: you guys went through a rollercoaster summer. Remember that this place is much more fun when you are all together. Being in the bunk with your boys ends sooner than you think so enjoy every minute of it. Next year will for sure be better if you all commit to stepping up for the betterment of camp and yourselves. If this is my last time with y’all then it’s been real. You guys are part of the reason why I jumped on, figure out what needs to happen before June and make it happen. Brett: being in the same cabin for the first time since the bungalow is lit. Finally getting to be a with one of my 14ers makes it worth it. Hope to see you next year or in Boston. Bagels: So glad you wanted to be part of the Raps. I miss JLew and the times we rinsed him and Shazam so being able to teach some of these kids our old tricks made my summer. Benny: When bagels Brett and I knew we wanted 12 we figured one of you guys would be with us and I couldn’t be happier that it was you. Somehow we went a whole year without seeing each other at Cuse but night 1
and making them lose lights lolol Landon, Jay, Shab, Spencer and DeedubsAbsolute megapalace SQUAD. Elite group right here
Simon - YOUR TAKING TOO FORT Theo & Spickler - AAAAAAAAA ilysmmmm you guys are such amazing people to have around, and you guys are so chill and accepting. Camp needs more staff like you. We’re the real reps. Danel - Steely Dan rules. Thanks for the Yotes shirt. Honorary 2k20 if you want it.
Winter Green - What a team. All picked for a reason. Guaranteed lake at the end of the week.
Bennett - C’est parti.
Dot dots…cheddar…The Syndicate…qual… he plays the game…the Scribnerrrrrrrrrrr… Fruits & Vegetables…we’re so up rn…Schiff-Denota…nice with it…fluffy size…corner celly… out of touch…PCA…Gaby Saadiah Hillel…high standards
Thank you for everything Avoda. Until next time, whenever that may be.
here we were ready for whatever was thrown our way. Couldn’t have done DW without you. Jason: When you texted the group chat that only five of us were coming back I knew I had to help out the boys and represent. Mad I didn’t have the chance to beat you in DW but so stoked to be running it with you this last week. Let’s go show camp what 2k20 can do.
2k2114: I got to know you guys a lot more this year, you guys are a really strong group. Keep coming back and bring back the Liz. JCs: step it up next year, Hecht you’re the boy, Ryan you’re okay, Ric keep repping. Jon and avi be more like veksler 2k2314: you guys have potential don’t bust Sr. Softball: thank you Leo, not a rivalry when we always muck. Blue Vinny: What could’ve been, if only we got one. White Raptors: One of the greatest days of my life. This team was built before camp started and if we did it over again there is literally nothing I would change. I am so honored to have the staff and 14ers alongside me so we could end that day in the lake. 14ers, you’ll remember this team for the rest of your lives, enjoy that. Everyone we picked balled out like crazy, couldn’t have asked for any more. We did it for Peljo. White Mavericks: We’re going to have a great week and I’m so excited for what’s to come. Let’s ball out and end this summer off strong.
If this is it, Avoda, thank you for everything you’re truly one of the most special places on earth.
BENNY HASENBERG
SC Bunk 12 - 2k21 14
1st LT White Raptors, 1st LT Blue Wolverines, Sr Hoops Coach, Sr Softball Coach, Co-Athletic Director, Co-Head of Ige, Assistant Host of Avoda Love Island
2k21- what a summer. Unreal to have the numbers we did and we ran camp. I couldn’t go 5 minutes without seeing one of the boys and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Went by so fast and I can’t believe I’m writing this right now. I love you boys. We’ve got one more in us for sure.
White Raptors- What a clinic. I honestly did not ever think it could go that perfectly. From the first meeting it was clear our staff just worked. Probably my favorite day I’ve ever had at this camp. Thank you all so much for your hard work the whole month and on the day of. David and Johnny yall are the best aides I’ve seen at this camp. 14 always wins
Blue Wolverines- I can’t believe we actually got this staff. We’ve been grinding so far and I know it will pay off. I am so excited for this week. Go Blue
Bunk 12- 12 you guys are the boys and right now I can see you are really starting to unite. I had a great time with yall and I think you guys can be a great 14. Can’t wait to see what’s ahead next summer.
Probably my favorite summer yet. This is the best job in the world and I will be back next summer. Two months went by way too fast.
ERIC HERNANDEZ
Bunk 12, 2K2014
Asst. Waterfront Director, 3rd LT. White Raptors, Coach of Ultimate Frisbee
This has been one remarkable summer and I can’t be more thankful for all of camp, administration, staff, and campers for their hand in its notoriety. I had an amazing time, some great laughs, and plenty of refreshing appointments.
2K20: Once more we found ourselves smaller than ever before, but yet larger than initially expected. I am so thankful for each and every one of you. You all mean a lot to me and I couldn’t have wished for a different set of guys to return year after year.
Smoked Gouda: This has been an electric summer both on and off the field and I’m so glad to have had this phenomenal team around me through it all. It always made my day whether I saw you around camp or on the field.
Griff, Benny, Itchy: Such a pleasure, way to be boys, had a blast. I hope to run it back.
Waterfront Staff: Always love that choppy water, cherish it.
Bunk 11: I can genuinely say I had an amazing time this summer and you guys are a massive part of that. While you may not have all always been the easiest campers you guys gave me many laughs and I had a really great summer spent with you guys. Best of luck next year, enjoy it.
BRETT ITCHKOW
SC Bunk 12, 2k2014
Assistant Waterfront Director, Head of First Aid Kits, Canoe Trip
Winning General, Smoked Gouda Co-coach, Jewish Life Staff
JASON KARAS
SC Bunk 14 - 2k2014
- General White Mavericks
I thought I was done - I was wrong (Thank Gd). Unbelievable to be back for another summer; and what a summer it was. I can’t believe its already over but you just have to live in the moment and enjoy the now. Avoda is the gift that keeps on giving. Please don’t ever let it change.
2k20: Way to be boys we had a great summer let’s stay strong. We are running camp next summer. As a note, we were a little too heavy on defense and barely played any offense so let’s work on that for the future.
Bagels, Benny, Griffin: What a group of kids. That’s all there is to say. Loved the ride with you guys, but wow- what a group of kids.
Waterfront Staff: Hubba Dubba Wubba! You know who you are and we kept it locked down especially when it came to making our appointments on time.
Reese: So grateful every summer we get to “work” together.
Can’t wait to see what next year will bring.
Bagels: youre my co-coach, co-assistant loterfront director and co-counselor. We do Avoda together. That’s how it should be. Thoughts on Summer ‘26? (ps don’t forget the White Chiefs)
Smoked Gouda: You guys were awesome. We had a great season together boys and watching you grow was so cool. Thank you for teaching me so much about coaching for my 1 period a day off the waterfront.
Bunk 12: You guys really showed me a whole different aspect of being a counselor. That’s not a compliment, it’s just true.
As year 10 comes to an end, it leaves me very sad but also excited for the future. To start, 2k20- although we lost a lot of people this summer, we still had a great time. All of you guys are the boys and there is no one else I would rather be with for the summer. 2k2414- Watching you guys grow up into the leaders of this camp was so cool. You guys were a fire 14 and I am so glad I was your counselor. Danny- So insane we are a team together. Truly a dream come true. So hyped to watch you grow onto staff. White Mavericks- lets get it. So much preparation for the week we are so dialed, lets get in that lake. Chuck - best summer in 14 we couldve imagined. Georgy- The boyyy. Daniel Weiner- The boyyyy.
Reese - so happy we got closer this year and next year will be amazing. Staff - I love you boys, see you next summer.
REESE SOCK
SC Bunk 14 - 2k2018
- Waterfront Director
Wow! what an amazing 5th summer here at Camp Avoda! Shout out to a fantastic waterfront staff, Itchy, Bagels, Vexler and Jacoby could not have done it with out you! Chuck and Jason what a great summer could not have asked for better Cos to run 14 this year… and ofc 2k24 thank you boys for being such great campers u guys are a strong but mighty bunk can’t wait to see u boys as CITs next year! Thank you all for an amazing summer can’t wait for more summers to come!
CHARLIE ZUKER
SC Bunk 14 - 2k1914
- General Blue Wolverines
Another great summer at Avoda. 2k2414 ur the guys please keep coming back this place is like no other. Wolverines let’s have a week. GO BLUE!
