Like the popular film classics “Miracle on Ice” and “Rocky IV,” in which underdog American athletes triumph over heavily-favored Soviet competitors, wrestler Matt Greenberg says his gold-medal win at the 2005 international Maccabiah games against a Russian challenger felt like something out of a movie.

“Standing on the podium in Israel and hearing the American national anthem was very emotional,” said Greenberg, 32, who comes from Upper Saddle River. “It was like a Hollywood ending playing out for me.”

His experience at the Maccabiah games was the impetus behind Greenberg’s return to coaching four years ago, after earning a master’s degree and starting his career. Last year the Maccabi board of trustees appointed him head coach of the wrestling team that will represent the United States at the July 2013 games there.

More than 1,000 runners participated under sunny skies on Sunday, Mother’s Day, in the 32nd Rubin Run, an event that began in Tenafly and featured a half marathon, 10K run, and 5K run and walk.

Tbe day’s activities are used as a major fundraiser by the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades for programs dedicated to those with special needs. Event organizers projected more than $60,000 was raised by participants this year.

Coach Guy Runyon with team members Max Runyon, Lindsay Arons, Sabre Zimmer, Jordan Janowski and Emma Leipsner

The new coed basketball team at Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley won its second game against an all-boys team, 38-18, and put up a spirited fight in its third contest against a leading all-boys squad from New York City. The players, in the third, fourth, and fifth grades, showed middot tovot (great sportsmanship) during the contests.

Temple Emanuel’s team does not play or practice during religious school hours or on Shabbat and holidays.

On June 16, Father’s Day, the third annual JFS Kosher Wheels for Meals: A Ride to Fight Hunger will take place, from start to finish, at the Jewish Home at Rockleigh.

Cyclists will be given four route options of three, 10, 25, or 50 miles, or participants can enjoy a 5K walk. Registration fees vary from $30-$50. The event hopes to raise enough to cover the $180 monthly cost of meals for many elderly couples.

JFS Wheels for Meals is a family-friendly cycle and walk for people of all levels and ages. Funds raised support JFS Kosher Meals on Wheels, emergency aid, the JFS food pantry, and other vital services that stabilize families facing tragic circumstances and help turn their lives around.

Register for the event at http://www.ridetofighthunger.org. More than 95 riders and walkers have signed up so far, with $55,000 raised and 18 teams created. Newman and Leventhal Catering will provide lunch at the event.

Sponsors are:

GOLD, Optima, If You Care, Tenafly Bicycle Workshop, Jewish Home at Rockleigh, Stop&Shop, CareOne at Teaneck, TGM Marketing, The Marcus Group, and Crestron.

SILVER, Triple Threat Communications, Bank of New Jersey, Drive4Rebecca, Executive Care, Flywheel Gym, Holy Name Medical Center, iKenDesign, Unilever, Pepsico, Kind Bars, and Solar Sense.

Israel’s first New York soccer match in over 35 years will take place June 2 at 5:30 p.m. at Citi Field. The game with Honduras takes place on the same day as the Celebrate Israel Parade. Tickets start at $20 at Mets.com/Soccer and (718) 507-TIXX.

Play Fore! The Kids, the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades’ 13th annual golf classic at the Alpine Country Club, is set for July 22 this year. As always, the contest raises funds for people with special needs, provides summer camp for children with cancer and other blood disorders and with autism, and helps enrich lives. Last year, the classic raised nearly $300,00.

The day begins at 11:30 a.m. and ends with cocktails, dinner and an auction.

For sponsorship opportunities and more information, call Sharon Potolsky at 201-408-1405 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

courtesy Chabad

At Chabad Center of Passaic County Lag Ba’omer Family Fun Day, children enjoyed rock climbing and more.

courtesy JCCOTP

All are invited to take part in the annual Mother’s Day Rubin Run on Sunday, May 12. Races are scheduled for all fitness levels, whether you are a beginner or seasoned athlete. You can choose the half marathon, 10k run, or 5k run/walk. A free Mother’s Day brunch will be served and a kids carnival is offered from 9 to 11 a.m. For information, go to http://www.jccotp.org/rubinrun.