Live Look From Israel
Maccabiah Daily Update: July 15, 2026

Day two of Israel Connect took us through some of the country's most meaningful places, offering moments to reflect, learn, and connect. From honoring Israel's heroes at Har Herzl and bearing witness to history at Yad Vashem, to experiencing the energy of Machane Yehuda, the day highlighted the many layers that make Israel so unique.

As our delegation continues this journey beyond competition, each experience deepens our understanding of the people, history, and culture that bring us together. Here's a look back at another memorable day across Israel.

Be sure to continue following along with all the content from Israel Connect by following Maccabi USA on social media and our website here.

Follow along with all the photos from Israel Connect and the complete Maccabiah experience here.

Visit to Har Herzl

Our delegation visited Har Herzl, Israel's national cemetery, where we honored the men and women who dedicated and gave their lives in service to the State of Israel. Walking among the memorials and graves offered a powerful opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that have shaped the country and to pay tribute to those whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

As athletes, coaches, and staff stood together in reflection, the visit provided important context for the experiences to come throughout the program, reinforcing the deep connection between the land, its history, and the people who continue to shape its future.

Yad Vashem

Our delegation visited Yad Vashem, where participants engaged with the history of the Holocaust through a guided tour and the stories of the six million Jews whose lives were taken. Moving through the museum together offered a powerful opportunity to reflect on this incredibly devastating period of history for the Jewish people. The visit also reinforced the importance of remembrance and carrying these stories forward. For many in our delegation this was deeply emotional and profoundly meaningful, strengthening our shared commitment to preserving Jewish history, identity, and community for future generations.

Additionally, our athletes participated in a ceremony following the tour, where we lit the eternal flame, honored the lives of those lost, and sang Hatikvah as a group. This was a powerful experience that demonstrated that even when through the darkest of times, we still have hope and that the Jewish people will persist.

Machane Yehuda

After a day of reflection, the delegation experienced the vibrant energy of Jerusalem with a visit to Machane Yehuda Market. Participants explored local shops, sampled Israeli cuisine, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere while spending time together in the heart of the city.

The visit offered a chance to unwind, connect with teammates, and experience another side of Israel's culture, bringing the day to a close with great food, conversation, and unforgettable memories.

Israel Program Fair and World Cup Watch Party

The evening's Israel Program Fair introduced athletes to a wide range of opportunities to return to Israel after the Maccabiah comes to a close. Our delegation learned about organizations across the Jewish world as they shared information about internships, volunteer experiences, study programs, and immersive travel opportunities, encouraging participants to continue building their connection to Israel in the years ahead.

The night concluded with the delegation gathering to watch the FIFA World Cup semifinal on a giant screen in the hotel ballroom, bringing everyone together to cheer, celebrate, and enjoy the excitement of the global game.

Follow Maccabiah Coverage with Maccabi Media

and Jewish Broadcasting Service

Thank you all for keeping up with everything from the Maccabiah as covered by our Maccabi Media Team. We are excited to continue producing content throughout the Israel Connect Program with video features, articles, and recaps. Check out the Maccabi Media page on our website to catch all of the coverage from Israel!



We encourage you to watch the previously livestreamed games by our Maccabi Media students on our YouTube channel or on Jewish Broadcasting Service. Check out the great JBS Maccabiah promo video here!

Be sure to check out our new feature stories produced by our Maccabi Media Team on our YouTube channel and follow along with all of our content on social media!

Israel Connect Day 1

From Foes to Friends: Gavriella Smith and Stephanie Ratner Win Open Tennis Golds

Thank you for tuning in and cheering on the USA delegation from afar!

Be sure to tune into all of our Maccabiah content by following along on our social media linked below!

Join the Maccabi USA Supporters WhatsApp Announcement Chat for daily updates from our Maccabi USA Ambassadors during Maccabiah by clicking here!

Connect With Us