Being a professional athlete is a challenging, pressure-filled business laden with never-ending demands and moments of crisis. Imagine, then, what it is like being an Orthodox Jewish athlete, who has to deal not only with the expectations of his coaches and sponsors, but also with those of his family and spiritual guides.
The documentary 'Orthodox Stance' (airs Thursday at 10 pm on the Yes Docu channel) provides a fascinating sketch of a young, promising boxer who is struggling with the inherent contradictions presented by his career and religious lifestyle.
Salita at a fight
Dmitriy (David) Salita, 26, who's known in the ring as "Magen David", entered the world of boxing when he was 13. Born to a poor family of Ukrainian immigrants in New York and discovered by an elderly coach, Salita managed, against all odds to slowly climb his way up in this demanding sport, and at the same time preserve an observant Jewish lifestyle.
Salita with his good friend Israel
From the beginning of his career, for instance, Salita refused to fight on Shabbat, and his opponents and non-Jewish trainers supported his decision throughout the way.
Directed by Jason Hutt, the film focuses on Salita's pursuit of a professional boxing title alongside his gradually-growing religious devotion and the inevitable difficulties and dilemmas his career evokes.
'Orthodox Stance', Thursday, November 27 at 10 pm on Yes Docu
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