An Experience of a Lifetime: 2026 Maccabiah Games
The 2026 Maccabiah Games in Israel were a deeply meaningful experience in my life. Unfortunately, the previous year’s Maccabiah Games had been canceled because of the War, and I was devastated when I learned I would not have the opportunity to compete. When the Games got rescheduled for 2026, I was ecstatic!
I was selected to represent the United States on the U17 Futsal Team. I arrived in Israel by plane with a few of my teammates whom I had only met virtually or for short training weekends. Then we drove to the hotel by bus to meet the rest of our teammates. In total, there were 10 players from across the US, 2 goalies, and 8 field players. Our coach set up some team bonding to get to know each other and our backgrounds. After a week of intense competitive practices and team-building exercises, we built a stronger team, deeper trust, and the confidence to perform together.
Our first main introduction to the entirety of the 2026 Maccabiah Games was the opening ceremony. And what an experience that was! Families from across Israel gathered in the stands waiting for the entry of all the Jewish competitors. The players entered by country in alphabetical order, except Israel, which was honorarily saved for last. When the US delegation walked together into the stadium wearing our country’s colors and waving American flags, the energy was palpable. Looking around at the stands of people gathered from Israel and at the thousands of Jewish athletes assembled from around the world made me realize I was part of something bigger than just a futsal tournament. Among the many influential voices and entertainers at this event were Benjamin Netanyahu and Isaac Herzog. The main message was to welcome us to our homeland and be proud of being Jewish.
Once the competition began, every match was exciting, physical, challenging, and unforgettable. We faced competitive teams from various countries. It was intense and meaningful to all the players. The atmosphere inside each arena was incredible, with fans proudly waving their flags, banging on drums, chanting, and cheering. Seeing fans from different countries come together to support their teams was really something special. What was even more notable was being named team captain by both my coaches and my teammates. As captain, I tried to lead my team by encouraging them, communicating on the court, and setting a good example. As the tournament went on, our team continued to grow and improve together. In the end, our hard work and camaraderie led to us winning a bronze medal!
Following the first 2 weeks was another week of the Israel Connect Program, where my teammates and I had the opportunity to travel throughout Israel and experience the country in a different way. We visited important historical and cultural sites, like the Western Wall and the Nova Festival Victims Memorial. We also learned about Israel’s history and created memories outside of the competition. Traveling with my teammates made these experiences even more enjoyable because we were able to share these moments together after everything we accomplished on the court.
Looking back, the Maccabiah Games were about much more than winning a bronze medal. It allowed me to represent my country, connect with Jewish athletes from across the globe, grow as a leader, and form friendships that will last a lifetime. I am very grateful for this experience. I will always remember the people I met, the lessons I learned, and the memories I made in Israel.
I want to say a special thank you to my parents and family for supporting me throughout this incredible experience. And last, but most certainly not least, I want to say a huge thank you to Cincy Journeys for helping sponsor my unforgettable journey.
