The Biggest Thing in Jewish Sports? UW Gridiron Great Gabe Carimi

Often described as the latest face of Jewish football, University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Gabe Carimi, at 6'7" and 327 lbs., has proven to be a force to be reckoned with both on and off the field.

Carimi is the co-captain of the Rose Bowl-bound Badgers, the recipient of the Outland Trophy for his stellar performance as an offensive lineman (one of only two Badgers to win this national trophy), and has most recently been named first-team All American. His academic record is as impressive as his athletic execution. A civil engineering major, Carimi has balanced his academic and athletic responsibilities with finesse. His athletic achievements have not detracted from his academic accomplishments, such as his being named Academic All-Big Ten for the past four years.

Carimi’s incredible accomplishments to date have garnered comparisons to Louis Behr, UW’s acclaimed Jewish basketball star, a UW Kenneth Sterling Day Prize recipient (oddly enough for displaying essential Christian worth as evidenced by moral character), and 1928 UW Hillel president.

Born in Lake Forest, IL, and raised in Madison, WI, Carimi and his family are active in Madison’s Jewish community, and are members of Madison’s Reform synagogue. When he is not at home, Judaism continues to play a central part in Carimi’s life. He is no stranger to UW-Hillel, and was Hillel’s special guest, along with fellow Jewish Badger Football player, kicker Alec Lerner, during the 2009 Dedication Brunch event in honor of the Barbara Hochberg Center for Jewish Student Life.

In an interview with UW Hillel, Carimi emphasized that he does not view his Jewish identity as an obstacle in his life as a student athlete. His decision to fast on Yom Kippur each year, despite the fact that it often falls on game days, is noteworthy in that it demonstrates his ability to maintain his commitment to his faith and career.

Carimi’s leadership, endurance, and dedication are an inspiration for up and coming Jewish athletes and football fans alike. As he prepares for the Rose Bowl, and training for the NFL draft — Carimi is an athlete we should keep our eyes on.



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Madeline Miller

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