Electronics and smartphones were set aside in place of family, friends and board games during the 4th annual Jewish Settlers of Catan Tournament at the Lincolnwood Jewish Congregation on Aug. 23.
Settlers of Catan is a board game where, according to its website, players build settlements, develop and harvest resources and grow into thriving civilizations.
Nearly 30 people attended the event which began at 11 a.m. and lasted into the evening. Children and adults alike competed to win one of many prizes, including two signed posters and two autographed hockey pucks from the Chicago Blackhawks. According to Max Gordon, one of the founders, the NHL team has been a long time supporter since the tournament began four years ago.
“They’ve been really supportive, along with so many other groups,” he said.
After four rounds and a constellation bracket, Matthew Altman took home the trophy, winning his second tournament since it began.
Gordon and his friend Sammy Schefler started the tournament when they were 19 after spending a year in Israel during Gap year – a time when Jewish students are encouraged to spend a year in the Holy Land.
Following the Sabbath and other religious constructs, Settlers of Catan was one of the few board games they could play and enjoy, Gordon said. “We have been playing this game since high school, too.”
More Top Picks Ooni Karu 2
After returning home, Gordon inquired about competing in a local Settlers tournament, but found that most landed on the Sabbath – a day devoted to “worshipping God and being with family and community,” Rabbi James Gordon, Max’s father, said.
“Why don’t we just make our own tournament,” Gordon said he asked Schefler. The two presented the idea to Gordon’s father, which he then presented to the synagogue.
Since then the event has seen participation from residents in Lincolnwood, Skokie, Evanston and other communities surrounding the North Shore.
“In my humble opinion it has been a success these last four years,” Gordon said. “But it wouldn’t have been a success without the support of my dad, my friends and everyone else who participated. It’s really something I’m passionate about.”
During the tournament, although Rabbi Gordon’s role is to make sure “it’s a place for people to have a good time,” he humorously added he has no interest in participating in the event.
“I myself do not know how to play the game, nor have any ambition to learn,” Rabbi Gordon said with a smile. “[However], for people of all ages and all backgrounds it’s a very popular game.”
According to Gordon, Mayfair Games, of Skokie, donated over 35 board games for the tournament. The competition takes place once a year at the end of summer, and while Gordon hopes more people will attend in the years to come, “I just want people to have a great time.”
All money raised is given to the synagogue, select Jewish charities and even Israel relief funds, Gordon said.
Lindsey Compton is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
This story was updated on Aug. 26 to correct the spelling of Matthew Altman’s name.