Having represented MGB at 17 Maccabiahs, EMG and Pan American Maccabi Games, Mancunian Schweiger is one of GB’s most decorated athletes winning an incredible 7 medals.
Speaking about the appointment Schweiger said, “To be selected as a manager for Budapest is a huge honour. Having played in many international Games with MGB, I felt it was time to give something back. The Maccabi spirit is simply in my blood and as my playing days are numbered, it was obvious that management was the natural progression for me.
“Returning home from Budapest with a harmonious, happy and buzzing squad who have connected to their Jewish identity, the Maccabi spirit and hopefully a medal would be a dream come true for me.”
Stewart began playing Jewish football aged 10 for South Manchester Sports Club. He later went on to captain and manage the team before representing MGB in 2003. He went on to win bronze as part of the Masters 35s Football squad in Israel in 2013.
“The experiences I’ve had with MGB had a huge effect on my enthusiasm to stay involved with the Maccabi movement - either as a player or manager.
“I am keen to help other people have the same incredible experiences I have done, making lifelong friends and playing football with and against some fantastic players.
“In Budapest, we want our squad to be winners on and off the pitch. We want the players to feel that they have given their all to the competition but also to have experienced a life-affirming ten days, which helps to shape them both as footballers and as young men. Win or lose, the boys will come away from the tournament desperate to do it all again, just like we have.”
The management set-up is completed by assistant-manager Sammy Kingston and coach Steve Grenfell. Kingston is currently enjoying the role as player/co-manager of Maccabi London Lions where he has featured for the past 12 years. During this time, he has completed his Level 1 FA coaching qualification and represented MGB at the EMG in 2011 in Vienna and at the 2013 Maccabiah Games, both as an athlete.
In preparation for Budapest, Kingston is also overseeing the U16 Boys Football squad who will compete at the Maccabi Youth Games this July.
Kingston commented: “I’m delighted to have the chance to see the other side of representing my country and community. I can't wait to get going as we all share the same belief in experiencing the magic of the Games and making sure that everyone has the best possible experience.”
Coach Steve Grenfell brings a wealth of experience, having also coached the Tottenham Hotspur Academy, London Lions, the MGB Maccabiah Open football squad and various and youth teams for the past ten years.
He said: “I am looking forward to coaching some of the best junior footballers in the community and to giving them the best opportunity to succeed at such an important event.”