Netherlands, IFAF World Champs!

This international tournament was hosted by the IFAF. We were asked to represent the United States in this first year tournament representing USA Football and the NFL. The teams were from Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Finland, Spain, Japan and Italy, The teams were 15 and under, older and bigger than most of our boys.

This was a very long day as we had to play all our games this morning and the other teams in our pool only had one game today. The tournament committee was very gracious in accommodating us for Yom Kippur yesterday. Fasting however only made our boys hungrier for a victory!

The boys really took it to another level today as the offense could not be stopped. Our offense was stopped ONLY two times all day! We found out that unlike the NFL tournament, where the teams are :"club teams", these teams were national teams composed of tryouts throughout their respective countries.

After Austria scored on the first play of our first game this morning, we never were behind all tournament.

Gavin has never had such an amazing day. He threw for 29 touchdowns and only one interception.

The boys truly played with heart and determination. The three veteran leaders Brett, Gavin and Michael, were true leaders today.

Brett was voted by all the coaches, tournament defensive MVP.

The finals were played against Japan. Just prior to the start, we stood at the 50 yard line as they played the star spangled banner. This truly was an emotional moment.

We took a two touchdown lead and were up by one touchdown at halftime. We traded scores in the second have and Gavin took a knee on the Japan one yard line as time expired.

We were proud to carry our large American flag up to the podium to receive the championship trophy and gold medals. The cheering from the spectators as well as the other teams will be lifelong memories. To our surprise, on the winners podium they then played "We Are the Champions" as we sang along loud and proud.

The boys not only played great football but were great representatives of our Jewish community and the U.S.A.

DAVID FRIED SPEECH- CLICK BELOW

2007 IFAF 15U WORLD CHAMPIONS

Mo Steel Seniors in the Miami Herald

VIEW PICTURES NOW

Tournament Web Site

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING!

It was a little over a month ago: the call that would change my life. I was in Target at the time buying school supplies, when I got a call from Fried. At first, I couldn't imagine what on earth Fried, the director of my camp, would be calling about. Then it hit me, and I answered excitedly.

That day was the first day of the rest of my life. Soon after that, we started cramming in team practices into the few short weeks we had ahead of us until we departed for Amsterdam, where we would be participating in the IFAF Junior World Flag Football Championships. I had never played serious football before, so I had a lot to learn, and I put forth all my effort in doing so.

The day we left had finally come. I had never traveled outside of the country before, only on a cruise, so that was a big deal for me. Often times you see matching teams in airports flying to some big game, well I was finally a part of that.

Boy was Europe amazing; every little thing was different. From street signs to light switches to tiny cars etc, it was a sight to be seen. Amsterdam was outstanding. The busy streets, the bicyclists left and right, the waterways, the people on motorcycles not attempting to slow down as to not hit you, and *cough* the Red Light District. It was the experience of a lifetime to see a whole other world out there.

Of course, game day. I'm not sure how we did it exactly, becoming the champions of the world, because there was so much against us. We were the shortest team by far, we only had a 7 man roster as opposed to 10, we had fasted all day the previous day due to Yom Kippur, we had to play all of our games one after another, and the whole team had only been together for about a month. What I think ultimately gave us the push over the edge to win, was our extreme 200% effort, dedication, and desire for the title of the world. Not to mention the single greatest coach ever, who has a passion for what he does, knows exactly what to do and when to do it, and is just an all-around great person, David Fried. Saying Fried is supercalifragilisticexpealidocious would be an enormous understatement. We all worked our butts off that day, the longer the stronger, and it paid off; in a huge way.

It was the last play and Gavin, our quarterback kneeled the ball. We all knew exactly what was coming and exactly what it meant, but we hadn't processed it until it happened: we are the champions of the world. Some of us I think I can say, still think it's unreal. Right after that kneel, we rushed the field and the whole team came together in a fit of joy and excitement. I would tell you how great we felt on that moment and from then on forward, but I can't; there's no words for it. It was just heaven.

This trip was one of the most spectacular experiences of my life. New bonds were formed, and countless jokes passed by that I still continue to laugh upon today. The night we returned I had gone day by day telling my parents of the whole trip for over 3 hours. I never finished, but I had to go to bed. From "y=mc2," to "I'm from Holland, where the f*** you from," to "No I'm a truck," to the "McDrive through," our trip was one bringing lifelong memories to always look back on, especially with Fried's love for pictures.

We have done it guys, "We are the champions.......of the world."

Congratulations to us, and to Coach Fried and Steve Silvers. May our luck continue.

--Matt Evans, #6

Beautiful photos. Nothing like the face of a winner!

Congrats. So happy for all of you

Karen

Un.............................................

................................................................................................

...........................................................................................Believable

I am so proud to be a part of Mo Steel Football, Team U.S.A. and this amazing accomplishment. What I find remarkable, is that these young men, as well as the not so young men, David and Steve, traveled half way around the world 2 Days before the tournament, fasted on Saturday, in respect of the Jewish holiday, played a 2 day tournament in one day, and a final, all with a new team. (only 3 experienced players ). And Won

I believe that it is of tantamount importance, more important than winning, that not only is this team representing the U.S.A. but they are also representing Jews all over the world. The teams that they were competing against understood why they could not play on Saturday, and after interacting, and spending time with our team, they learnt about Americans, specifically Jewish people, and our values. After this education, when the members of the teams representing the other countries here about the U.S.A, Israel and Jews, they have a very positive point of reference. This great experience, can only effect international relationships going forward, in a constructive, and harmonious way.

It is the most wonderful opportunity, for our boys, being able to represent one's Country, and Heritage in such a positive, and influential way. Not only are we Flag Football Champs, we are GREAT ambassadors.

I must tell you, that while I was not on this trip, while touring Japan, with the Mo Steel Family, I felt that we did wonders, representing who we were, and where we were from.

That is Mo Steel Football. ALL ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE.

I'm not going to sing anyone's praises, but we all know, who the head coach of this program is, his way with the young adults, and the successful aura, that a true champion

has around him, and those he influences.

Kol Hakavod.

Gary Heldenmuth

David, I've been associated with the JCC sports program both as a coach and parent spectator. I've known you for over 10 years, from the bottom of my heart and with all my appreciation, I've never met a more committed , dedicated teacher ,ambassador and coach to the kids and family's of our JCC and community. We all are blessed to have you. Thank you for all that you do Harry, the lexus guy

David, Steve, Gary,

Congratulations to you and your team. We can't wait for the details. I just got off the phone with Scott Hallenbeck, (Director, USA Football) and he expressed his gratitude in your team's ability to so honorably represent the US and JCCs. He would like any stories and pictures you have in order to post them on the USA Football website. Please send them to us and we will forward them on. Thank you and Mazel Tov.

Steve Becker

Yo congratulations.... You deserve it... don't let any one ever tell u u cant do anything because you

showed everyone that u can do whatever you want with who ever u want to...

let me know when you get back and again congratulations!!

.........................Benny...........................

Congratulations!!!!!!

You are a true champion!!!!

I told you that you were going to win, i had a great feeling

I am so proud of you for all your effort and for always with your head up high.

Enjoy the moment, you deserve it so

with lots of love

michele Brodsky

David,

Without you there would be no team, no tournaments, no victory- so thanks for being there, for the support, the encouragement, the drive and the motivation. You truly helped bring out the best in the team and for that we thank you!

Lara and Andy

David:

I want to congratulate you for a job “better than well done”. There were so many questions just a few weeks ago about the continuity and viability of the program. You just proved that the program survives because of great leadership. No single player is responsible for the fate of the team. Rather, it is a set of values and determination to be the best that flows from the top.

You do have a lot to be proud of. Not just once, but many times, you have proven that you can take kids and develop them into the best players in the world.

Congratulations again.

Max

David,

From the Edwards family to the Mo Steel family,
We send you the most hardiest of congratulations.
We are very proud of you and your championship team.

See you when you get back.
Rich, Jodi, Blake, Dylan and Briana

UNBELIEVABLE, I'M SO HAPPY FOR

YOU GUYS!

SEE YOU SOON!

 Peter

So proud!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! that's fabulous .

Wish i was there to see it!…. KIM

D, AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations were all real proud of u guys, Harry

I am so proud of our Michael-Ann Russell JCC Flag Foot Ball Team and our Team USA. I am so thankful to our Coach; David Fried for his amazing leadership and to our Team Manager, Dr. Steve Silvers for his inspiration and care for each team member. I am very thankful to our parents for allowing us to mold and grow with the kids. May you have continued health and happiness. I look forward to seeing the team when they return and to see each of you at the JCC.

Warm regards and best wishes. Mazel Tov and Congradulations.

Gary Bomzer,MSW

Classy people always finish first...congratulations!….. JIMMY

David –

I got goose bumps reading your letter, your words are obviously pouring out of your heart and not just your pen. People do not get how much of yourself you have given to make this thing called Mo Steel work. They just do not get it. I know because I have poured myself into the Panthers team for three years – hard, hard work. I can ONLY IMAGINE how much of yourself you have given to develop the program you have developed.

We had our best practice of the season last night and I am in good spirits today. The boys that have stuck with me are attached to me, they love me and I love them, they are just great kids...with great parents too. The ones that have departed were always not on board with what I try to do. I try to create a family atmosphere. I use you guys as a model.

Thank you for always serving as an example to follow.

JIMMY

Awesome, it brought a tear to my eyes, thanks for sharing this special moment ! Harry

Awesome, awesome, I am so excited.

Susan Fried

Gary and I are on the phone and we are thrilled.

Congratulations! Sounds like an awesome

experience and a really sweet victory.

Really happy for all of u

Love

Karen Marcus

The answer is your off to an excellent start for the 2007 - 2008 year! Congratulations, I wish I could have been there (I am a little bit jealous!) See you all when you get home! Yes it is un... beliavable!
Mitch

KISSES AND HUGS! YOU ARE AWESOME AND YOU ALL ARE BEAMING! LOVE THE PICTURES….SO PROUD OF EVERYONE…..YOU AND DAVID ARE DELICIOUS!

Adrienne Scheck

you're the best!!!… EREZ

Wow – speechless.

Keep enjoying “the view” from the top.

SHARON B FELD

Oh my g---d!!!!!!!!!!! We couldn't be more thrilled for you and the guys! And thanks to those who stepped up to the plate! (how does matt evens feel?) We are so proud of all of you and brandon wants gavin'as jersey (?)

Love you,

Andrea

David & Steve,

I hope you returned safely. Congratulations again on an outstanding job. The sportsmanship and respectfulness of your team was nothing short of exceptional. It was a true honor to be associated with your team throughout the weekend.

All of us at USA Football send our congratulations on a great accomplishment. Please send my remarks to each of the players.

Respectfully,

Ed

Way to go !!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Mazal Tov !! You and your team are DA BOMB !! - Jenny

   what happened this past weekend was something unforgettable. mo steel
football won the world championship. what was amazing was the i was
apart of it. you see my hole life i never really won anything. i was
always coming in 2 or 3 place in everything. but this weekend we
finished number 1.
   5 weeks ago i was sitting on my couch when i got a call from
David fried to play for his flag football team, to represent the
united states in Amsterdam. I immediately said yes. I had no idea what
to expect.
5 weeks later we arrived in Amsterdam. still not knowing what to
expect. all of my friends back home were doubting this football team
saying that their glory days were finished and there was no way we
were going to win this tournament. so pretty much everything was going
against us that weekend. we had to play all of our games Sunday
morning after a day of not eating or drinking. we had the smallest
team there and our team has only been together for a little over a
month. but we were determine to prove all the doubters wrong. that
Sunday we played with intensity and determination. but most of all we
played with heart and that is what a true champion is made of.
   Sunday was truly the most memorable day of my life. we showed the
world what USA football was all about. the day before i left to
Amsterdam i told my father that we were going to win a championship
and we did. but i wasn't trying to win just to show the world we were
the best. i wanted to help Michael karp win his first championship, i
wanted to prove all the doubters wrong, but mainly i wanted to put
David fried back on top of the flag football world and help him win
the championship he has been waiting for, for three years. i just want
to thank u david for everything. this past weekend will always have a
special place in my heart.

   -ELI FAITELSON

JCC Team Wins Flag Football Junior World Cup

The Michael-Ann Russell JCC’s Youth Flag Football Team, the Mo Steel Seniors, represented "Team USA" at the Junior Flag Football World Cup - hosted by the International Federation of American Football – September 22-23 in Lelystad, the Netherlands – and captured the GOLD medal.

After a bronze medal finish as "Team USA" at the NFL Youth Flag Football World Championships in New Orleans in August, the Mo Steel Seniors were invited by the International Federation of American Football to again represent "Team USA" at the Junior Flag Football World Cup in the Netherlands from Saturday, September 22 – Sunday, September 23 – dates which coincided with the Jewish Holiday of Yom Kippur (Friday evening, September 21 – Saturday evening, September 22).

For the Jewish people, Yom Kippur is a 24 hour plus period of physical abstinence where one rids oneself of one’s sins, seeking forgiveness for transgressions committed against one’s "fellow man" and God. Most mark this day of physical abstinence by fasting for more than a 24 hour period.

After traveling that day from North Miami Beach to the Netherlands, the Mo Steel Seniors attended synagogue in Amsterdam and began their fast on the evening Friday, September 21, continuing their observance through the evening of Saturday, September 22. This meant that the Mo Steel Seniors were not able to participate in the first day of the Junior Flag Football World Cup.

Hence, the Mo Steel Seniors were required to play two-days worth of tournament games in one day, on Sunday, September 23. With veteran players (Gavin Block, Michael Karp and Brett Silvers), along with new teammates (Matthew Evans, Eli Faitelson, Steven Feld, and Willy Rosenblatt), the Mo Steel Seniors defeated Team Austria, Team Finland and Team Holland to advance to the Finals – finally defeating Team Japan, 46-40. Accompanying the team were Head Coach, David Fried and Team Manager, Dr. Steve Silvers.

According to Gary Heldenmuth, Mo Steel Seniors Team Manager, "It is a wonderful opportunity for our boys - being able to represent their country and their heritage in such a positive and influential way. They are not only Flag Football Champions; they are great ambassadors."

First of all, I want to thank you Fried for the opportunity that you gave me to go on this amazing trip. The experience to me was great because I am a young player and hope to soon to be the leader of a team and I feel that watching players like Karp, Silvers and Gavin is a great learning opportunity which will help both my leadership skills and playing skills on the field. So, again, thank you.

PS: its Y=mc2

Steven Feld

David, Steven,

Delighted to hear you guys won in the Netherlands and more importantly had a great experience.

It sounds like they battled through against all odds.

I am working on a project for USA Football at the moment (though not flag related), so I dare say that as you stay involved with them our paths will cross again soon!

Congrats.

Cheers

- Mike

AMAZING, UNFORGETTABLE, INCREDIBLE. Those are just some of the words that come to my mind after this trip to Netherlands. This was by far the best trip i have gone to, not only with the team, but ever. The whole trip is something i will hold on to forever, from the moment we met at the J for our first practice as a team until the goodbyes at the airport. At the beginning i wasn't sure if we had a chance in hell considering we hadn't played a game together; but hey look at what happened, with all our hard work, sweat, blood, tears, and most of all heart we pulled off the most unbelievable thing ever. The touring in Amsterdam was amazing from the boring ass canal tour all the way to the RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Yom Kippur definitely made us hungrier for a victory, that was definitely a big bump on the road to the top of the mountain; but it is another thing that i will never forget - spending Yom Kippur in Amsterdam. The whole day of the tournament was fantastic, form the consistent waking up and not saying a word with the headphones on until the beginning of the game against "zigizaga zigizaga Austria!!" until the end of our game against Netherlands. Back to back to back games was a huge thing for us, and we won all 3. The national anthem that no one remembers on the 50-yard line - no comment. The struggle against Japan and pulling it off at the end, my first World Championship. Not only for me but for all of us, and more importantly for Karp. And then all the celebrating on the podium singing "We are the champions;" that will be in my heart forever. The last day was amazing in Amsterdam and the great food at that restaurant; followed by the nasty hookers on the Red Light District. Finally the airplane ride home, sad to be leaving but happy as hell to have won and the all the memories. I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity and tell you that i will remember this experience for the rest of my life.

Willy Rosemblat

I read it and smiled. Also in today's Neighbors. I tremendously respect the team and coaches for taking the stand on not playing on Yom Kippur. I think that shows it was not only a great football team...but a team with a real soul. You and David should be very proud.