And so it begins, the summer of sport in Israel. The Uefa under-21 Championship finals kicked-off in style, amid a fanfare of colour – an ocean of blue and white.
There is a great sense of excitement around the country right now and next month the very same hotels that are currently crammed with the continent’s finest young footballers will be packed to the rafters with Maccabiah athletes and supporters.
There is always a great buzz when the draws for all the various sports take place, especially when a British team pulls Germany out of the hat.
One cannot help but get excited about the prospect of what promises to be the biggest and best Jewish Olympics yet.
Across the globe, Jewish sportsmen and women are putting the final preparations in place for an event that will not disappoint. Over the next few weeks, squad managers and coaches will be adding the final touches for what will be the hottest ticket in town.
It has certainly been an incredible few months for Brad Sharp. Since joining Brady Maccabi from North West Neasden, he’s won the Peter Morrison Trophy and was recently called up to the Team GB Open Football squad.
Speaking about his selection, he told me: “I’m absolutely buzzing. Training is immense and everyone is so up for it.”
* The curtain will officially be drawn on the JC MSFL season 2012/13 at the annual awards on Monday. At one stage it looked as though several teams would struggle to complete their matches, when snow, ice and rain set in, but they got there in the end.
All eyes are now on which player will win the top prize. My money would be on Dan Howard who has really matured into a top-class defender for the double-winning Faithfold team.
Team captain Alex Levack, the league’s top player in 1999/2000, is another strong contender.
The Safe Hands accolade is harder to call. Faithfold’s Ben Law, the 2008/09 winner, is the favourite after conceding just 14 goals in the league, but Los Blancos’ Josh Cohen and Brady Maccabi B’s Sam Singer are also in the mix.
* Blizzard Storm manager Simon Linden has made his intentions clear for the new Maccabi League season with two big new signings.
Linden has broken the bank to sign former double winner Adam Levene and Louis Taylor from North West Neasden B. Linden described the acquisitions as “wonderful news for the club".
* JAMI are looking for two teams of four to take part in their Charity Golf Day at the Shire Golf Club in Barnet on June 20. For further details, contact lynsey.lever@jamiuk.org.
