Countdown to Maccabiah Games

 

DAVID WEINER 

THE countdown to the 18th Maccabiah Games is well and truly on, after NSW Premier Nathan Rees bid adieu to the Sydney members of the squad at a function at Governor Macquarie Towers on June 22.

Rees hailed the Games as a “great sporting event”, before telling the 200-strong NSW contingent that “you go to these games with the blessing and good wishes of every sports-loving Australian”.¬†

The Premier told the audience, clad in their green and gold tracksuits, that the Games are an opportunity for the competitors to promote “our skills, diversity and way of life to the rest of the world”, but above all¬† Maccabiah is a “unique celebration of faith”.

“The Maccabiah Games are an expression of Jewish pride,” he said. “Pride of a great and indestructible faith pride in the story of the Jewish people, their fortitude and strength and pride in the story of modern Israel.”¬†Rees reflected fondly on his trip to Israel last year, when he led a delegation for the Australian-Israel Chamber of Commerce, which he described as “one of the most extraordinary events of my life. It had a profound impact on me.”¬†Australia’s head of delegation Tom Goldman added that for the 8000 athletes from 60 countries, the 18th Maccabiah Games will provide a lifetime of memories.¬†

“For each participant at the Maccabiah Games, they are two weeks to experience, and a lifetime to remember. For many the Maccabiah provides a significant connection to Israel and for some, Judaism itself,” he said.¬†”It provides us with an opportunity to connect with Jewish contemporaries from around the far reaches of the world in the land of Jewish roots and inspires an awakening of Jewish life.”¬†Five-time participant Bert Rosenberg beamed when talking of his excitement at travelling to Israel again, this time for the Masters 75-80 Tennis competition.¬†

“Yes, very excited,” he enthused. It’ll be a family affair for the Rosenbergs in July, with Bert’s sons Lance and Justin, and grandson Matthew all competing at the Games. It’s the first time he’ll be joined by youngest son Justin, who will contest opens tennis.¬†Husband and wife duo Peter and Tammy Keller will try their hand in the mixed doubles competition.¬†The Masters competitors are also making their Maccabiah debut, and are just as excited as all the young kids going for the first time.¬†”I’m looking forward to it,” Tammy said. “The opening ceremony should be amazing.”¬†Also champing at the bit are the squad’s juniors. The green and gold will boast a healthy contingent across basketball, football, futsal, tennis, swimming and netball, as well as in gymnastics, karate and athletics.