JCC Maccabi provides such a special and unique opportunity for Jewish teens to come together. Having the chance to be a part of Maccabi for so many years has been a real honor. Traveling all around the country and to Israel meeting other delegations and learning about Jewish communities around the world makes it easy to come back year after year. Supporting my players in honing their Jewish identity, learning how to communicate, and building camaraderie both on and off the court is what it’s all about for me.

JCC Maccabi is more than just sports- it’s a family. I have been lucky enough to find friendships, Jewish pride and a true sense of community. I am forever grateful to be able to experience this again.

The friendships we made, the pride we felt for our Jewish heritage and identity,
and the connection we experienced to the land of Israel have left an incredible impression. When we look back at summer 2023, there’s no doubt we will say
JCC Maccabi in Israel changed and impacted us for the rest of our lives.

I've had the benefit of participating in the JCC Maccabi Games in five different roles. Each of them was challenging and rewarding. The common thread in all my experiences has been great people and the community we built through JCC Maccabi. I love the experience and the impact it has on Jewish teens.

I never knew what Jewish peoplehood meant until I stood at the opening
ceremony, singing Hatikvah with thousands of my peers from all over the world,
and I realized I had a place among my people.