Three cheers for Maccabi!

The JCC Maccabi Games® are an international athletic competition for Jewish teenagers run much like the Olympics. Athletes can compete against Jewish teens from all over the United States as well as delegations from Israel, Great Britain, Mexico, Canada, and more. The Games are played with a focus on “rachmanus” or sportsmanship with the intent to foster long-lasting friendships, memories and connection to Judaism and Israel. This unique event is not only about being a part of the Jewish people; it comes with a mission–to make the world a betterplace and to make ourselves better people. We express these values or midot to help us remember the greater mission of the Games and Judaism. We emphasize Tikkun Olam(repairing the world), Kavod (respect), Rina (joy), Ga’ava (pride), Lev Tov (big hearted),and Amiut Yehudit (Jewish peoplehood). The Games also promote community involvement, and team work. The Games are one of the largest Jewish teen events in the world; each summer over 3,000 Jewish teens participate. Over 100,000 teens have benefited from the JCC Maccabi Games since 1982. At this Jewish Olympic style event, each athlete participates in one of fifteen sports, social events, and an opportunity to give back to the community during this week-long experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Team sports in Fort Lauderdale include: Baseball,3v3 and 5v5Basketball, Flag Football, Girl’s Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Boys Lacrosse, and Soccer.

Individual sports in Fort Lauderdale include: Dance, Swimming, Tennis, Table Tennis, Star Reporter (Sports Journalism).

2023 JCC Maccabi Games are also taking place in Israel July 5-25. For more information, check out the JCC Maccabi Games website. Colorado is not planning to send a delegation to Israel. Athletes interested in joining the Israel games will be part of a mixed city delegation.

Please note that team and individual sport offerings vary each year as they are dependent on the host city and venues available.