Kaminsky Honors West Hempstead teen

West Hempstead teen, Estee Ackerman, was recently honored by Senator Todd Kaminsky for her extraordinary successes at the game of Table Tennis, and for her unwavering commitment to her religious beliefs.

In the past year, Ackerman -- who is a rising Sophomore at Yeshiva High School for Girls in Queens (aka “Central”) -- won two gold medals at the AAU Junior Olympics, was a finalist in Division B of the USATT Junior National Singles Open, achieved first place in the Under 3700 Junior Doubles Event at the 2016 US Nationals Table Tennis Championship, won a bronze medal in Jr. Girls Teams and came in 9th place in the Cadet Girls Team Trials.

This past February Ackerman forfeited two opportunities to qualify for the 2016 summer Olympic Games in Brazil because the qualifying matches fell on the Shabbos.

“I’m blown away by Estee’s unwavering commitment – both to her convictions and to her sport,” said Kaminsky. “It was my privilege to honor such a dedicated young person for her hard-earned accomplishments.”

Estee and her father visited Senator Kaminsky’s office on Friday afternoon, where she was presented with a proclamation to recognize her athletic achievement and religious commitment.  

“I’d like to thank Senator Kaminsky – it’s an honor that he has recognized my hard work and talent,” said Ackerman.  “I was in the Junior Olympics and won first in the girls 16 and under age group.  Being that I didn’t make it to Rio, I’m happy to have made it to the Junior Olympics.  I might not have won an actual Olympic gold medal, but I’m trying to win a gold medal in life.”