JESSE LISHINSKY
Hometown: NY
School: Smithtown West
Position: Center Field
For Jesse Lishinsky, baseball has been a 10-year journey filled with competition, friendships, and a growing love for the game. Representing Smithtown West, Jesse brought his energy and athleticism to center field while becoming part of a 2026 JCC Maccabi Games team that created memories that will last a lifetime.
Jesse’s favorite Maccabi memory came from experiencing two of the things that make the games so special—friendship and winning. “Creating friendships with my teammates and winning the gold” was the highlight of his experience. While the gold medal was the ultimate reward on the field, the friendships Jesse formed with his teammates were just as important.
Being part of Team Maccabi also gave Jesse a greater sense of pride in his Jewish identity. “It made me take pride in being Jewish,” he says. That pride extended to his family as well, making the opportunity to compete as part of Team Maccabi particularly meaningful. “It meant a lot to me and my family,” Jesse explains.
Jesse has been playing baseball for 10 years and has played for Five Star Mafia. His primary position is center field, where he loves the excitement that comes with making difficult defensive plays. “I love making diving plays,” he says—a fitting description for an outfielder who isn't afraid to leave his feet to make a big play for his team.
His biggest influence in baseball has been his dad, who has been there to support and guide him throughout his baseball journey. That support has helped Jesse develop both as a player and as a young man.
While Jesse has not yet mapped out exactly where baseball will take him, he knows he wants to continue his education and graduate from college. His academic goals reflect his desire to build a successful future both on and off the field.
Jesse’s favorite MLB player is Derek Jeter, a player whose leadership, consistency, and commitment to his team made him one of baseball’s most respected figures. It’s an appropriate inspiration for Jesse, who values the importance of being part of a team and making a difference whenever his number is called.
Away from baseball, Jesse has another passion that might surprise some of his teammates—he loves listening to music. Whether he's on the field making a diving catch or relaxing away from the game with his favorite songs, music provides another part of Jesse’s life beyond baseball.
Jesse Lishinsky is more than a center fielder. He is a proud Jewish athlete, a loyal teammate, and a young man who understands that some of the most important victories aren't always measured on the scoreboard. His 2026 Maccabi experience gave him a gold medal, new friendships, and an even greater sense of pride in who he is—and those are memories he and his family will carry with them for years to come.
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