Coaches Union Threatens Disciplinary Action Against Eilat Club Manager

The Israeli Football Coaches Union has sent a warning letter to Kobi Refua, the professional manager of the Bnei Eilat club in Liga Bet (the fourth tier of Israeli football), threatening disciplinary proceedings. The union alleges that Refua, who was officially registered as "Youth Department Manager" for a recent State Cup match on August 31, 2026, against Maccabi Beersheba, actively participated in the team's professional management on the field. This involvement, reportedly confirmed by media reports and Refua's own interviews, allegedly violates the Football Association's registration regulations.

According to the union's letter, the regulations stipulate that a "coach" designation includes professional managers and that all coaches must be registered members of the union. Furthermore, coaches must complete at least 15 hours of professional training over the three preceding seasons to be registered. The union claims Refua has not met these requirements, including registering with the union and completing the necessary training hours.

The union asserts that Refua's actions constitute an "unlawful circumvention" of the regulations and undermine the status of certified coaches. They demand that Bnei Eilat immediately cease employing Refua in any professional capacity that requires adherence to the Football Association's regulations, including professional management or sideline coaching, until his status is regularized and his training obligations are met.

If the club fails to rectify the situation and stop the "irregular situation," the Coaches Union stated it will petition the Football Association's prosecutor to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the club and those involved.