AJ Edelman: The National Mission of an Olympic Athlete
In this episode of All About Change, Olympic athlete AJ Edelman shares his journey from hockey player to skeleton competitor and his experience representing Israel in the 2018 Winter Olympics. The conversation explores how Edelman balanced his religious commitments with competitive sports, developing creative solutions to maintain his Jewish observances while pursuing his athletic career.
The episode also delves into Edelman's work as an athletic ambassador, his efforts to inspire young Jewish athletes through representation, and his current mission to advance Israeli bobsledding. He discusses his approach to advocacy, including his stance on mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ representation in sports, while explaining how he navigates the responsibilities of representing his country and communities on the international stage.
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1-Page Summary
Aj Edelman's Journey and Challenges as a Jewish Athlete
At age 23, Aj Edelman made an unusual transition from hockey to skeleton, despite receiving the worst scouting report at a Lake Placid training camp. Undeterred by being told he wasn't athletic enough, Edelman dedicated himself to watching over 10,000 hours of footage, ultimately becoming one of the world's better skeleton drivers.
Religious Commitments and Olympic Dreams
As a Jewish athlete, Edelman faced unique challenges balancing religious observances with sporting events. He developed creative solutions, such as staying in hotels near venues to walk to competitions on Shabbat while maintaining his religious commitments. These strategies ultimately enabled him to represent Israel in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Representation and Role Modeling
Edelman recognized a concerning pattern: the Jewish community's limited participation in sports due to a lack of visible role models. After competing in the Olympics, he actively worked to change this by donating his Olympic equipment to the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and sharing his story to inspire young Jewish athletes.
Advocacy and Identity
Edelman approaches his role as an Israeli athlete with a deep sense of responsibility, wearing his country's flag as a symbol of pride and resistance against anti-Semitism. He champions multiple causes, including mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ representation in sports, while working to propel the Israeli bobsledding team toward the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Athletic Ambassador
Edelman believes athletes should be positive ambassadors for their countries and communities. Despite losing sponsors due to his advocacy, he maintains his commitment to representing Israel positively and countering misinformation. He holds his team members to high standards, expecting them to embody values that reflect well on Israel, regardless of their athletic abilities.
1-Page Summary
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Clarifications
- Skeleton is a winter sliding sport where athletes ride a small sled down a frozen track while lying face down and head-first. It is a solo event where riders start with a running push and navigate the course for the fastest time. The sled used in skeleton is heavier and more controllable than those used in luge, allowing for precise steering. Athletes in skeleton races experience high speeds and significant g-forces during their runs.
- Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. During this time, activities like work, driving, and using electronics are typically avoided. Observant Jews engage in prayer, spend time with family, and refrain from certain actions to honor the day as a time of spiritual reflection and rest.
- The National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame is an institution that honors Jewish athletes and contributors to the sports world. It recognizes individuals who have excelled in sports and made significant societal contributions through athletics. The Hall has inducted over 500 athletes from various countries and holds annual induction ceremonies. It aims to inspire and celebrate the achievements of Jewish individuals in the realm of sports.
- Aj Edelman lost sponsors due to his advocacy work, which included championing causes like mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ representation in sports. Some sponsors may have disagreed with or felt uncomfortable supporting these causes, leading to their withdrawal of support. Edelman's commitment to these advocacy efforts, despite potential financial consequences, showcases his dedication to promoting important social issues within the sports community. This situation highlights the complexities athletes can face when balancing personal values and advocacy work with the expectations of sponsors and the broader public.
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Aj Edelman's Journey and Challenges as a Jewish Athlete
Aj Edelman's story is one of unparalleled determination and dedication to overcoming obstacles, both as an athlete and as a practitioner of his faith.
Edelman's Switch From Hockey to Skeleton Despite a Negative Athletic Report
At the age of 23, Aj Edelman made the unconventional transition from hockey to the less familiar sport of skeleton. His foray into this new arena was met with significant skepticism, particularly when, during his participation from 2014 to 2018, he received the worst scouting report at a skeleton training camp in Lake Placid. On his 23rd birthday, he was bluntly told that he was not athletic enough and would never achieve success in skeleton, let alone make it to the Olympics.
Edelman's 10,000 Hours of Footage Analysis Made Him a Top Skeleton Driver Despite Doubts
Undeterred by such a disheartening assessment, Edelman embarked on an intensive self-improvement plan. He dedicated himself to watch over 10,000 hours of footage, dissecting the nuances of the sport to elevate his driving skills. This rigorous analysis and self-training eventually paid off, turning him into one of the better skeleton drivers in the world despite the initial doubts about his athletic prowess.
Challenges for Jewish Athletes: Religious Scheduling Conflicts, Limited Community Support
Jewish athletes often face unique challenges due to religious observances, particularly when it comes to scheduling conflicts with sporting events. This is especially true for Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, which can coincide with game days.
Edelman's Unique Strategy, Like Staying In Nearby Hotels, Enabled His 2018 Winter Olympics Representation For Israel
Edelman, alig ...
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Aj Edelman's Journey and Challenges as a Jewish Athlete
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Counterarguments
- Skepticism about athletic potential is not always accurate or indicative of future success.
- Watching footage is beneficial, but practical experience and physical training are also crucial for athletic improvement.
- Unique strategies to accommodate religious practices may not be feasible or practical for all athletes.
- Representing a coun ...
Actionables
- Turn a negative assessment into a personal challenge by setting a goal to prove it wrong through consistent, targeted practice. For example, if you're told you're not good at public speaking, practice daily in front of a mirror, record yourself, and seek feedback from trusted friends to improve your skills and confidence.
- Use video analysis to master a new skill by recording your own attempts, comparing them to expert performances, and identifying areas for improvement. If you're learning to play the guitar, film your practice sessions, watch tutorials from professionals, and note the differences to refine your technique.
- Accommodate your personal beliefs and commitments when pursuing goa ...
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Decision to Represent Israel and Its Significance
AJ Edelman, who taught himself the perilous sport of skeleton by watching YouTube videos, has set out to be more than just an athlete; he aspires to be a symbol of hope and change in the Jewish sports community.
Edelman's Goal to Be a Role Model and Drive Change in Jewish Sports Community Lacking Infrastructure and Visibility
Edelman realized that there was a detrimental cycle at play: the Jewish community did not pursue sports because of a lack of visible role models. After competing in the 2018 Winter Olympics for Israel, he chose to use his platform to demonstrate the value sports could bring to the Jewish community.
Edelman: Successful Jewish Athletes Inspire and Challenge Stereotypes in Sports
His intention was to challenge the stereotype that Jews do not actively engage in sports by becoming a successful athlete himself. This drive was so strong that it led him to donate some of his Olympic equipment to the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame after the games, with the aim of showing young Jewish people that they, too, can achieve greatness in athletics.
This drive resonated with at least one child from an after-school program who was inspired by Edelman's narrative of overcoming doubt and making it to the Olympics. Edelman's journey has the potential to impact young people and encourage them to believe in their dreams and translate his experiences into their aspirations. He strives to inspire the youth by showing that you can break barriers and excel, even with minimal infrastructure.
Edelman's Pride and Responsibility Representing Israel and Jews As National Athlete
Edelman's View: National Identity and the Flag Are the Essence of His Athletic Pursuits
Edelman’s strong family values have instilled a deep sense of responsibility towards his community and the state of Israel. He expresses that without the symbolism of the flag, an athlete’s actions have less impact. It is with this se ...
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Decision to Represent Israel and Its Significance
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Counterarguments
- While Edelman's personal story is inspiring, it may not be enough to overcome the structural and cultural barriers that limit Jewish participation in sports; systemic changes may be necessary as well.
- The assumption that the Jewish community lacks interest in sports due to a lack of role models may oversimplify the issue, ignoring other potential factors such as economic barriers, cultural values, or competing interests.
- The focus on national identity and the representation of a country's flag in sports can be seen as nationalistic, and some may argue that sports should be more about individual achievement and less about national representation.
- The idea that an athlete's actions have more impact when representing their country could be challenged by the view that sports should promote universal values and unity rather than national pride.
- While Edelman's efforts to stand against anti-Semitic sentiments are commendable, some might argue that using sports as a platform for political or social statements can be divisive or distract from the spirit of international com ...
Actionables
- You can create a visual representation of your heritage and achievements to share on social media, showcasing how your personal identity shapes your successes. For instance, if you're proud of your cultural background and have accomplished something significant, like running a marathon or learning a new language, post a photo or video with a caption that ties your achievement to your heritage. This can inspire others in your community to pursue their goals with pride in their identity.
- Start a blog or vlog series highlighting stories of individuals from underrepresented groups in your community who are breaking stereotypes. Focus on interviewing local athletes, artists, or professionals who embody the spirit of overcoming societal expectations. Share their journeys and how they connect their success to their cultural or national identity, which can motivate others to follow suit and redefine perceptions.
- Engage with local youth groups by volunteering to give talks or in ...
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Advocacy for Jewish and Israeli Representation in Sports
Edelman stands at the forefront of the drive for Jewish and Israeli representation in sports, reaffirming identities, challenging stigma, and propelling cultural conversations. He dedicates himself to lifting barriers and creating inclusion not only in mental wellness contexts but also in the discourse of athletic pursuits and international competition.
Edelman's Fight Against Mental Health Stigma and for LGBTQ+ Representation in Sports
Kenneth Cole, acknowledged with the Mort and E. Ruderman Award in Inclusion, underscores the prominence of confronting mental health stigma. His efforts as the founder of the Mental Health Coalition rally support through storytelling, awareness, and action to carve a broader path for inclusion on a national scale.
Edelman's Defense of Israel and Jews Amid Anti-Semitism and Criticism
Edelman's Mental Health Coalition Awareness Campaign
As an ambassador for Israel and Jewish representation, Edelman dons a Zionist Day shirt during athletic events, recognizing the urgency to elucidate Zionism amidst widespread misperceptions. He grapples with the indifference encountered from fellow athletes towards Jewish concerns unless directly impacted themselves. Throughout these interactions, he underscores the significance of his identity and the defense of his community.
Edelman confronts the entangled nature of sports and national representation, and while the conversation begins in the context of Russia's state-sponsored programs, he pivots to the challenges Israeli athletes endure. By advocating for the exclusion of certain countries from state-level competitions, Edelman implicitly upholds the plight of Is ...
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Advocacy for Jewish and Israeli Representation in Sports
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Actionables
- You can support diversity in sports by following and engaging with athletes from underrepresented communities on social media. By liking, commenting, and sharing their content, you help increase their visibility and show solidarity with their efforts to overcome barriers in sports.
- Start conversations about mental wellness in your sports community by sharing resources and personal experiences. This could be as simple as bringing up the topic during a post-game chat or sharing articles and videos that discuss mental health in the context of athletics.
- Encourage local sports teams to host themed games ...
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Athletes' Roles and Responsibilities as Public Figures and Ambassadors
AJ Edelman, representing Israel, advocates for athletes to be positive ambassadors of their countries and communities.
Edelman's View: National Athletes Should Be Positive Ambassadors For Israel
Edelman believes that his role extends beyond competition alone; as a national athlete, there is a significant responsibility to be a positive ambassador, representing and uplifting the values of his community and Israel. He sees his work, including "carrying Israel sliding through the Olympic Games," as imbued with purpose and responsibility.
Edelman's Dedication To Using His Platform to Promote Understanding and Counter Misinformation
Edelman sees a stark contrast between himself and athletes who refrain from speaking on issues unrelated to their profession. He is dedicated to utilizing his platform for advocating understanding and countering misinformation. For Edelman, there's a strong emphasis on the responsibility to represent and defend the interests of his fellow countrymen and avoid taking sides in domestic US politics or other unrelated political issues. He calls for maintaining professionalism and good faith interaction, even amidst bad faith engagements from others, and warns against the divisiveness of politics. Instead, he believes in fostering positivity.
Edelman moves beyond the view of sport as mere competition or individual accomplishment; rather, he sees it as a means of promoting one’s country. He stresses the role of athletes as national ambassadors, and his goal is always to maintain an image of positivity for Israel.
As for the influence on the younger ...
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Athletes' Roles and Responsibilities as Public Figures and Ambassadors
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Clarifications
- AJ Edelman is a Jewish-American athlete who competes in the sport of skeleton for Israel. He is known for his advocacy of using his platform to promote positive values and represent Israel as a national athlete. Edelman's dedication to being a positive ambassador for Israel has led him to prioritize values and responsibilities beyond just athletic competition.
- Athletes often serve as representatives of their countries, embodying national values and ideals. Their actions and behaviors can impact how their nation is perceived on a global stage. This role extends beyond sports performance, requiring athletes to consider their influence and responsibilities as public figures.
- Athletes often serve as role models for the younger generation, influencing their behavior and values. Expectations are placed on athletes to embody positive qualities and behaviors that can inspire and guide young individuals. This influence can shape how young athletes perceive themselves and their responsibilities as representatives of their country or community. Athletes are expected to uphold certain standards and values that reflect positively on their nation.
- Athletes often face a delicate balance between staying true to their personal values and fu ...
Counterarguments
- Athletes may not wish to be public figures or ambassadors and might prefer to focus solely on their sport.
- The expectation for athletes to be positive ambassadors can put undue pressure on them, potentially detracting from their athletic performance.
- Athletes are individuals with their own beliefs and may not always align with the values or politics of their country.
- Using a platform to counter misinformation can be complex and may lead to athletes being drawn into controversies or debates they are not fully equipped to handle.
- Avoiding domestic politics or unrelated political issues might not always be possible or desirable, especially if those issues directly affect the athletes or their communities.
- The idea that sport is primarily a means of promoting one's country can be seen as nationalistic and may overshadow the personal achievements and stories of individual athletes.
- The role of athletes as national ambassadors can conflict with the global nature of sports, where athletes often have diverse backgrounds and compete in international settings.
- Imposing strict standards of behavior reflecting positively on the country may lead to censorship or the suppression of athletes' freedom o ...
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