Hapoel Center Names Athletes and Teams of the Century

The Hapoel Center, a major Israeli sports organization, celebrated its 100th anniversary by honoring its athletes, coaches, and teams of the century. The event recognized individuals and groups who have brought international pride to Israel over the past hundred years.

Among the honorees were rhythmic gymnast Linoy Ashram, an Olympic gold medalist, and her coach Ayelet Zussman. Taekwondo athlete Asaf Yasur, a Paralympic and world champion, and his coach Yechiam Sharabi were also recognized. Sailing's Gal Fridman, Israel's first Olympic gold medalist and a coach, along with his coach Gur Steinberg, were celebrated. Moran Samuel, a world champion and Paralympic medalist in rowing, was also honored.

In the team category, Hapoel Tel Aviv Football Club, winner of the 1967 Asian Club Championship, Hapoel Jerusalem Basketball Club, winner of the 2004 EuroCup, and Hapoel Tel Aviv Basketball Club, winner of the 2024 EuroCup, were named teams of the century.

Gal Fridman expressed gratitude for Hapoel's continuous support of Israeli sports, stating, "It is a home that puts Israeli sports on the map." Linoy Ashram called her selection an "immense honor" and hoped it would inspire more young girls in Israel. Prosper Ben-Hamo, Chairman of the Hapoel Center, highlighted the organization's growth since its founding in 1926 by David Ben-Gurion and the Histadrut labor federation, now boasting approximately 350 branches nationwide.

Kineret Tzadok, CEO of the Hapoel Center, described the selection process as "impossible" due to the many deserving candidates, emphasizing that Hapoel is a home for champions and continues to foster the next generation of athletes.