DRS freshmen take part in Shabbaton

David Renov Stahler Yeshiva High School For Boys freshmen were apparently excited as they eagerly boarded the buses on Sept. 13, ready to head to the annual freshman Shabbaton, held at Camp Kaylie. “The goal of the Shabbaton is for everyone to meet each other and create a sense of [unity] within the grade in an enjoyable and fun way,” Menahel Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky said. 

Students unpacked, prayed and then headed to the gym for Wacky Olympics. They faced off in Talmudic competitions in a variety of events, in which every student had a unique role. Students also took in a late-night barbecue and played basketball in the gym with their new friends.

On Sept. 14, there was Torah talk and then the students played a very competitive flag football tournament, and continued to bond. Then there was go-carting, swimming and more sports before preparing for Shabbat. 

After a spirited receiving of Shabbat, a meal with songs and Torah commentary the annual a Talmudic Family Feud-style competition, there was the hallmark DRS-style tisch with Rabbi Kaminetsky and rebbeim (and cholent and kugel, of course).

The spirit continued with a lively morning prayer, kiddush, a creative session highlighting the boys “Fresh Start” with another spirited meal and an intriguing Talmudic session and games throughout the day. The Shabbaton ended with slow songs and heartfelt words from Rabbi Kaminetsky. The boys said they were excited for the friendships made and the spirit experienced to last all four years of high school and beyond.