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 third 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 role, according to the union, requires a valid coaching license and registration with the union, which Refua allegedly lacks.

The union's letter cites regulations stipulating that a "coach" includes a professional manager or general manager, and that all coaches must be registered with the union. Furthermore, it requires coaches to have completed at least 15 hours of professional training over the preceding three seasons. The union claims that Refua's involvement in professional management, as evidenced by media reports and his own interviews, constitutes a violation of these regulations and undermines the status of licensed coaches.

The union demands 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, union membership, and training requirements are met. If the club fails to comply, the union stated it will petition the Football Association's prosecutor to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the club and those involved.