Former pro footballer joins Maccabi GB board

Joe Jacobson getting his honorary doctorate from Buckinghamshire New University with lecturer Ze'ev Portner[Missing Credit]

Jacobson said of his new role: “It is a hugely proud moment for me to join the board of such an incredible and well-established organisation”.

Maccabi GB Chair Jonathan Prevezer commented: “Joe brings a rare combination of elite sporting experience, modern football leadership, and deep personal understanding of Jewish identity and belonging.

“His credibility within the game will be a huge asset to Maccabi GB as we continue to grow out impact and ambition. We are delighted to welcome him to the board”.

As well as this new role and his continued affiliation with Kick it Out, Jacobson is currently serving as co-CEO of Reading FC.

Jacobson was also one of three Jewish sportspeople celebrated in Maccabi GB’s inaugural Jewish Sports Awards last month.

He was presented with a certificate recognising both his career and his activism on the steps of 10 Downing Street.

Natalie Kenton was also commemorated for her transformative leadership in Jewish netball, dramatically increasing the sport’s visibility among Jewish girls and women.

“Nat’s Netball Club”, founded in 2012, is now England Netball-affiliated and engages 800 girls in the sport weekly, with dozens of teams and programmes, and many players have progressed onto elite pathways and competitions.

Ashley Lerner, CEO of Maccabi GB, said: “Natalie has truly transformed girls’ and women’s netball within the community and beyond, creating pathways and opportunities that have shaped the journeys of thousands of young players through her club and her work with Maccabi GB.”

Natalie Kenton and Joe Jacobson (right) with their Maccabi awards (Photo: Maccabi GB)[Missing Credit]

The third recipient was Dal Darroch, who was presented his award by Lerner, alongside the UK Government Advisor on Antisemitism Lord Mann, at the FA’s Chanukah celebration.

Darroch is the FA’s head of diversity and inclusion strategic programmes and was recognised for his work supporting Jewish communities and interfaith activities.

Dal Darroch receiving his award from Maccabi GB (Photo by Tom Dulat - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)The FA via Getty Images

Lerner commented: “Dal is a genuine leader in inclusion. For him, allyship and compassion go far beyond a job title, and he has been a true partner in tackling antisemitism in football, while championing the power of the game to strengthen community cohesion.”