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SPOTLIGHT ON

MILITARY & SPORTS: A LEGACY OF COMMITMENT AND EXCELLENCE

Class of 2024 and Their Predecessors

When we think of the intersection of military service and sports, we imagine individuals who bring the same dedication, discipline, and grit to the field as they do to serving their country. This week, we spotlight Robert Simons(z”l), a 2024 inductee, whose life exemplified that very commitment.

Robert Simons(z”l)

Bob was a man whose love for baseball never wavered, even as he served his country during the Korean War. A standout player at Weaver High School and later at the University of Hartford, Simons took his passion for the game to the U.S. Army. He played for the Army baseball team in the Hawaiian Armed Forces League, where the diamond became a sanctuary amid the challenges of military life.

Beyond the field, Simons made significant contributions to the world of real estate, co-founding Hurwit & Simons Realtors and the Medical Management and Development Corporation. His leadership extended to community service, with active roles in the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, the Hartford Hillel Foundation, and other organizations.

Bob’s legacy is one of dedication—whether to his team, his business, or his community. As we honor him in the Hartford Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, we celebrate not just his athletic prowess but the enduring spirit he brought to every aspect of his life.

Honoring Past Inductees who also carried their passion for sports into their military service:

Leo Pinsky: As a Marine stationed on Guam during World War II, Pinsky played second base for the Marines baseball team that clinched the Guam Island Championship. His service was as sharp as his swing.

Harry Smith: Stationed in Alaska from 1944-1946, Smith played on the Army’s all-star baseball and basketball teams, proving that even in the frozen north, his passion for sports burned brightly.

Morris Borstein: While training fighter pilots in the U.S. Army and Air Force during World War II, Borstein kept his competitive edge on the basketball courts at bases in Ohio and California.

Gabriel "Gay" Bromberg: Serving with the 100th Infantry Division during World War II, Bromberg not only fought on the front lines in North Africa and Europe but also pitched for his military police platoon and coached football in post-war Germany.

Samuel Levy: During his two years in the Pacific theater with the Navy in World War II, Levy brought his love of basketball to the Navy’s team, adding to the storied tradition of sports in service.

These men embody the spirit of resilience, determination, and excellence both in sports and in service to our country. As we honor Robert Simons(z"l) and his fellow inductees, we remember that their contributions go far beyond their athletic achievements—they remind us of the enduring connection between the discipline of the field and the duty of service.

Celebrate the Class of 2024!

On Thursday, September 26, we are thrilled to induct 12 remarkable adults into the Hartford Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. This spectacular evening promises to be a celebration of excellence in sports and community.

5:30 PM - Cocktail Reception

6:30 PM - Dinner-Stadium food inspired menu. Passed hors d'oeuvres and food stations. Something for everyone!

7:30 PM - Awards Presentation

Missed a Week?

Catch Up on Past Hall of Fame Newsletters Here!

Click on the week below to read more.

• Week 1: Bruce Mandell & Coleman Levy

• Week 2: Bonnie Hittleman-Lewis & Toby Schuman



• Week 3: Thai Tran & Ronit Shoham

• Week 4: Ari Klau

• Week 5: Sheri Slobin Shea

• Week 6: Jon Cohn & Jim Solomon

Search the Hartford Jewish Sports Hall of Fame inductee archives