MGB U16 football squad unveiled for Euro Games

The selection comes just months after the management announcement of Danny Schweiger, Mark Stewart, Sammy Kingston and Steve Grenfell, who between them have represented MGB 25 times at international games.

On the selection process, Schweiger said: “Competing at a Maccabiah or European Maccabi Games is the pinnacle for any Jewish sportsperson. We never thought the selection process would be so difficult but with over 70 very talented boys at our trials we had a huge task on our hands to pick a squad for the Games.

“Our squad has a great mix of experience and age, and although it is always tough to get the northerners involved, we are delighted that we have representation from Leeds and Manchester coming to Budapest next year.”

Speaking about their aims for the Games, Stewart said: “Ultimately we want our team to bring home the gold meda.! In the build-up though, we want the squad to have an incredible experience, working together for a common goal in a tournament that will undoubtedly change their lives in many ways.

“We hope that each player in the squad will come home from the tournament with a stronger understanding of themselves as a footballer having made lifelong friendships and a deeper connection to their Jewish Identity.”

Kingston commented on the balance of the group, and remarked: “It is fantastic to see a mix of new and familiar faces, as we welcome back those who have previous represented MGB at the Maccabi Youth Games or JCC Games.

“It’s clear these boys have loved their previous international games experience with MGB and they have come back hungry for more.”

U16 BOYS FOOTBALL SQUAD

Joseph Abrahams

Ben Barnett

Solly Bradley

Joseph Bregman

Jason Burns

Zack Cohen

Aaron Cowland

Sam Goldberg

Tyler Gordon

Scott Leslie