Maccabi GB have started the search for athletes to represent Team Great Britain at the 2015 European Maccabi Games in Berlin.

More than 250 participants are expected to be part of the GB delegation, competing in 23 sports across the Open, Juniors and Masters categories.

As well as the request for past representatives of Team GB to apply, there has also been a ‘call-to-arms’ for those who have yet to wear the Union Jack at an International Jewish sporting event. One area Maccabi GB is looking to gain more applicants for the European Maccabi Games is through the Community’s sportswomen.

The Berlin Games will be particularly historic, as they will be the first Jewish International Games that will be held in Germany – making the whole event even more memorable and meaningful to those involved.

GB Head of Delegation Daniel Collins said: “We implore all those within the community who love sport, and believe they can compete to a high standard, to come forward and represent Team GB.

"Wearing your country’s colours on a sporting stage is one of the highest honours a sportsperson can have, and to compete in Germany – one of the most significant places in our religion’s history – alongside other Jewish athletes, makes the occasion even more poignant."

Team manager Joel Nathan commented: "We already have a vast knowledge of British Jewish athletes who could represent Team GB exceptionally in 2015. However, there are always those who may stay under the radar and we say to them, do not be shy in putting yourself forward"!

"Everyone who applies will go through the same process and we are especially keen to cast our net far if you, or someone you know, feels they can do Maccabi GB proud in Berlin.

"There will be a strong recruitment drive from this point onwards and we are specifically looking to boost the number of female athletes in our squad for this tournament, and use it as a foundation for future European and Maccabiah Games."

GB took a delegation of 240 to Vienna at the last European Maccabi Games in 2011, winning 78 medals in total.

Applications are now being accepted at www.maccabigb.org/emg.