Dan Jacobs admits he is looking to repeat the podium finish he guided the Team GB Masters 35+ Men’s Football after being appointed manager of the squad competing at the 20th Maccabiah Games in 2017.
Jacobs takes the helm three years after guiding Team GB to a third place finish. Jacobs is a staple of the Anglo Jewish sports scene, having been one of only a handful of participants to have represented Great Britain at the Maccabiah, European and Pan-American Maccabi Games.
After an impressive playing career, Jacobs turned his hand to management 10 years ago with the then London Lions team who plied their trade in the Spartan League. For the last four years he has focused his attentions on developing the Maccabi London Lions’ 35+ Masters side.
The process has been a successful one and seen them compete in the Garston Vets League as well as various prestigious cup competitions. His selection is a positive step for the Masters Team who have the opportunity to build on the fantastic achievements of his 2013 squad.
"My management team and I were extremely proud of what we delivered for our squad in 2013 [at the 19th Maccabiah Games], with the bronze medal a tangible reward for the huge efforts and collective spirit the squad created,” said a delighted Jacobs.
"Whilst the focus will, of course, be on the football I’m keen to stress from the outset that, for those lucky enough to come on board, this is about creating a totally unique and utterly unforgettable 12 month experience from the trial process to the closing ceremony of the Maccabiah Games in Israel in 2017 and beyond. It is journeys like this where friends are made for life."
Assisting Jacobs will be Elan Ovits, a European Maccabi Games 1999 gold medal-winner, who has been making headlines with his work in guiding North London Raiders to consecutive Maccabi Masters Football League (MMFL) titles.
Ovits’ knowledge of the league - a division that is growing annually in both strength and quality - and the players which meet the Team GB selection criteria for the age category, coupled with his incredible enthusiasm for the task ahead, convinced MGB that he was perfectly placed to tackle the role.
Ovits commented: "A prestigious tournament this big is an opportunity too good to turn down. To be a part of Team GB at the Maccabiah Games is a real honour.
"Having heard so many great stories about previous squads, I’m determined to deliver success and plot with Dan and the Management team a high quality programme which will hopefully result in a medal and a wonderful experience both on and off the pitch.
"If you are fit and will be 35 before December 31m 2017 then we want to hear from you. We make no promises you will get in, but can promise that if you don’t apply you definitely won’t."
The Masters squad are looking to recruit a professional coach. Trial dates in April, May and June will be confirmed soon.
