Hostage Survivor Emily Damari Urges Maccabi Tel Aviv to Reverse Firing of Team Manager

Hostage survivor Emily Damari has publicly appealed to Maccabi Tel Aviv's management to reconsider their decision to dismiss team manager Yoav Ziv. Damari shared a series of emotional Instagram stories detailing her deep connection with Ziv, emphasizing his crucial support for her family during her captivity in Gaza following the October 7th attacks.

Damari described Ziv as someone whose role extended far beyond his official title. She stated that he was a constant source of support for her family during the "most difficult period of my life and my family's life," offering help without being asked and without seeking anything in return. She highlighted his dedication, noting he "simply was there," providing care, listening, and accompanying them with "great sensitivity and a huge heart."

Beyond his support for her family, Damari noted Ziv's extensive involvement with other groups affected by the conflict, including evacuees, bereaved families, the wounded, and other hostage families. She shared a video of Ziv surprising her on a film set with a birthday cake and balloons, underscoring his consistent presence and support.

Expressing her profound disappointment, Damari criticized the club's management, stating, "The decision to end his role is very painful and disappointing to me." She asserted that Ziv is integral to the club's identity, values, and heart, urging the management to rethink their choice. "A great club is also measured by the people who represent it," she concluded, adding, "Yoav is Maccabi! Maccabi is Yoav!"