The Maccabiah Torch Is on the Move

The Maccabiah Camp Experience is in full swing across North America: In partnership with Maccabi USA, the program recently visited Camp Judaea in Hendersonville, NC, where campers from 1st to 7th grade enjoyed a day filled with basketball, karate, and soccer clinics alongside Maccabiah athletes.

"This amazing activity showed our young campers that they also have the potential to train hard and maybe one day compete in the Games!", said Ilana Schlam, Camp Judaea's Assistant Director. “Meeting real athletes made their camp experience extra special and inspired them to pursue their goals.”

Israeli basketball player and Maccabiah athlete Nofar Shalom, now part of the program, shared: “I feel a deep responsibility to represent not only my country, but also the values of Israeli youth. Camps like this are a unique chance to connect with Jewish kids in the U.S., share stories and culture, and strengthen our bond as one people. Basketball is my way of life — a powerful tool to teach both professional skills and life values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and mutual respect".

Caren Lesser, USA Karate athlete and five-time Maccabiah participant, added: "Sharing our sports journeys with the next generation helps build bridges, promote health and confidence, and create a path toward the Maccabiah and Israel. It’s vital that our Jewish community feels strong and supported — and that our youth recognize their value and potential".

"The time with the campers was priceless,” she continued. “Learning from one another, building friendships, and feeling the unity reminded me of the incredible impact the Maccabiah Games have on all of us.”

Sydney Slotkin, who led the soccer sessions and was set to compete in the Maccabiah this summer before its postponement, described the experience as deeply meaningful: “I wanted these campers to get a little taste of what the Maccabiah feels like — traveling to Israel and playing the sport you love is an opportunity like no other. Through camp, I’ve seen how community is built, and I’m grateful to be part of that and share it with these kids.”

The journey continued with energetic visits to Camp Ramah Darom and Camp Coleman in Georgia, Maccabi Sports Camp near San Francisco, Habonim Dror Camp Galil, and the Alper JCC in South Florida. Campers from grades 2–10 took part in hands-on clinics and left with more than just new skills:

“I learned how to be a better team player — not just on the court, but in life,” said 14-year-old Charlie from Camp Coleman. “I learned how important it is to respect my teammates,” added Liam from JCC Maccabi Sports Camp.

At the heart of the Maccabi Camp Experience is the mission to connect young campers with the rich legacy of Maccabi World Union and the Maccabiah Games. Through exclusive sports clinics led by elite Maccabi athletes worldwide, campers develop new skills, build confidence, and discover what it means to be part of something greater.

Each day starts with torch-lighting ceremony, and every camper receives a special commemorative medal — a lasting symbol of their achievements and growing connection to the Maccabiah spirit. And this is just the beginning! The torch keeps moving – so stay tuned!