|
Live Look From Israel
Maccabiah Daily Update: July 17 & 18, 2026
As the Israel Connect journey continued, our delegation spent Friday and Saturday exploring both the history and heartbeat of Jerusalem. Friday was filled with meaningful moments as athletes walked through the Old City's historic streets, visited the Kotel to reflect and pray, and explored the Davidson Center, where ancient archaeological discoveries brought thousands of years of Jewish history to life.
Following festive Shabbat services and a delicious Shabbat dinner on Friday night, Saturday shifted from exploring Israel's past to engaging with its present. Our athletes heard from an extraordinary lineup of speakers who shared diverse perspectives, personal stories, and experiences that continue to shape Israel today. Through conversations with Iztik Gvili, Ron Segev, Orit Mark, Menachem Kalmonzon, Shalev Biton, Eylon Levy, and Yoseph Haddad, along with an impactful workshop led by the ADL and a meaningful Havdalah ceremony, the day encouraged thoughtful dialogue, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the complexities, resilience, and people of 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.
| | |
Touring the Old City of Jerusalem
and Praying at the Kotel
Our delegation explored the winding streets of Jerusalem's Old City, experiencing one of the world's most historically and spiritually significant places firsthand. As athletes made their way through the Jewish Quarter, a special musical welcome awaited them as they encountered centuries of history woven into every alleyway, marketplace, and stone pathway. Along the way, they learned about the cultures, traditions, and events that have shaped Jerusalem into the vibrant city it is today.
After lunch, our delegation gathered at the Kotel (Western Wall), one of Judaism's holiest sites, for a powerful and deeply personal experience. Many athletes took the opportunity to write personal prayers and messages before placing them into the cracks of the Wall, participating in a tradition that spans centuries.
We continued our journey through Jerusalem's history with a visit to the Davidson Center, where archaeology brings the city's ancient past to life. Walking among the excavated remains at the foot of the Temple Mount, athletes explored original streets, monumental staircases, and artifacts dating back thousands of years, gaining a tangible connection to the people and events that shaped Jewish history.
More than just a tour, the experience offered an opportunity to connect with the rich history of the Jewish people while gaining a deeper appreciation for the enduring significance of this remarkable city.
| | |
Shabbat Guest Speakers and ADL Workshop
Following Shabbat morning services, our athletes spent Saturday engaging with an exceptional lineup of speakers who shared personal stories, diverse perspectives, and firsthand experiences that offered a deeper understanding of modern Israel. Iztik Gvili, Ron Segev, Orit Mark, Menachem Kalmonzon, Shalev Biton, and Eylon Levy spoke candidly about leadership, resilience, service, advoacy, and the challenges facing Israel today, encouraging thoughtful discussion and reflection throughout the day.
The learning continued with an interactive workshop led by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), where athletes explored the importance of combating antisemitism, responding to misinformation and disinformation, and becoming confident advocates for themselves and their communities. Together, these sessions challenged participants to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and carry these conversations with them.
| |
Celebrating Havdalah
As our final Shabbat together as a delegation came to a close, we gathered for a beautiful outdoor Havdalah ceremony, marking the transition from a day of rest back into the week ahead. Surrounded by friends and teammates, athletes joined together in song and reflection, celebrating the traditions that continue to unite Jewish communities.
The ceremony provided a meaningful opportunity to pause, appreciate the experiences shared throughout Shabbat, and strengthen the sense of community that has grown throughout Israel Connect. It was a memorable moment of connection before continuing the final day of our journey together.
| |
Yoseph Haddad Speaks to Maccabi USA
On Saturday night, our delegation had the opportunity to hear from Yoseph Haddad, an Israeli Arab social activist and advocate who shared his unique perspective on Israeli society and his work building understanding between communities. Through his personal story, Haddad spoke about identity, coexistence, and the importance of engaging in honest conversations, even on the most complex issues.
His remarks encouraged athletes to listen with curiosity, ask thoughtful questions, and consider the many voices that make up Israel's diverse society. The session added another valuable perspective to a day centered on dialogue, learning, and a deeper understanding of the country and its people.
| | |
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!
| | | | |
