The turn of the year brings with it renewed hope and expectation for Jewish sportsmen and women across the globe.
The European Maccabi Games is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown as far as 2015 goes, with athletes, coaches and managers alike cranking up their preparations for the historic event in Berlin.
It also promises to be an exciting few months for the Israel football team who will be looking to cement their place in the Euro finals for the first time.
Opportunity is knocking for the Group B pace-setters, with double-headers against the highly-fancied Belgium and Wales teams on the horizon.
In terms of my ones to watch, let’s start with Israel. Much depends on the performances of goalkeeper Ofir Marciano and striker Omer Damari who have helped put Israel in such a strong position. Filling the gloves of stalwart Dudu Awat was never going to be an easy task, but Marciano has shown he is just the man for the job.
Damari has also shown he is a player for the big occasion and with a good nose for goal, he will be looking to outshine the likes of Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard for a place in the finals in France next year.
On the domestic front, hotshot Daniel Garfinkle has shot to fame since his summer move from Hendon to Redbridge. If he can maintain form and fitness, the chances are that manager Jon Jacobs will get the prize of Premier Division football he’s long been dreaming of.
Much the same can be said of AFC Flixton marksman Leor Sidle who is having an outstanding first season at AFC Flixton. Last season’s Accountants League Division One champions have turned heads in their first season in the top flight, and if there is one player capable of taking the Peter Morrison Trophy up north, it’s Leor.
It’s also worth keeping an eye on Paul Lenchner. The striker has helped London Lions Vets reach two cup semi-finals. ‘Lench’ has been in cracking form on the pitch and when he eventually hangs up his boots, he looks destined for a career in comedy. Just ask Laura Marks.
See Danny Caro’s weekend round-up at thejc.com. Email dcaro@thejc.com and/or follow Danny on Twitter:@djcaro
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