Jake Retzlaff's journey as a collegiate athlete has been anything but conventional. While most athletes make a limited impact on their community beyond what they accomplish on the field of play, Retzlaff's Jewish faith while attending BYU, an institution sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has overshadowed anything he's done on the gridiron.
In a deal with Manischewitz, a Jewish-owned company that specializes in Kosher foods, the affectionately dubbed "BYJew" is signing NIL opportunities that tie to his faith before his athletic ability.
Additional photos from the press release. pic.twitter.com/7Efp9pNd0F
— Calvin Barrett (@SharkWaffles_) December 5, 2024
With Chanukah (Hanukkah) just around the corner, this announcement comes just in time to promote a very special season for those of Jewish descent.
“Manischewitz has always been part of my life," the quarterback explained. "I grew up with matzo with peanut butter as my favorite snack, and every Passover, my family and I made matzo pizza together. At Chanukah time our tradition was making potato latkes."
Though many local fans may be largely unfamiliar with Jewish traditions and culture, Retzlaff's ambassadorship as a Jewish leader at a predominantly LDS university has inspired many to be proud of their heritage.
"Now, at BYU, I’m able to share these traditions with my teammates. This partnership is about more than football—it’s about creating connections and celebrating Jewish pride in ways I never expected.”