Father Recounts Son's Deep Connection to Hapoel Jerusalem FC
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
John, father of the late hostage Hirsch Goldberg-Polin, shared his son's deep connection to Hapoel Jerusalem FC and the family's ongoing grief. Hirsch, abducted in October 2023 and killed in August 2024, was a devoted fan whose passion fueled social initiatives. John spoke about coping mechanisms, memorial projects like a new basketball team, and the enduring support from fans. He also reflected on Hirsch's unique ability to connect with those holding different views, urging Israelis to foster understanding.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Hirsch Goldberg-Polin, abducted Oct. 7, 2023, was killed in captivity in August 2024.
- His father, John, discussed Hirsch's deep connection to Hapoel Jerusalem FC.
- Hirsch's fandom inspired social initiatives, including Jewish-Arab football games.
- Memorial projects include a mural and a new basketball team, Hapoel HaShisha Jerusalem.
- John highlighted Hirsch's unique ability to engage with people of different opinions.
- The family continues to receive support from Hapoel Jerusalem fans and German fans.
John, the father of Hirsch Goldberg-Polin, who was killed in captivity, spoke about his son's profound connection to the Hapoel Jerusalem Football Club and the family's ongoing struggle since his death. Hirsch, who was abducted from the Nova festival on October 7, 2023, at age 23, was held by Hamas for nearly 11 months before being murdered along with five other hostages in August 2024. From a young age, Hirsch was a devoted fan of Hapoel Jerusalem, a passion that led him to participate in social initiatives, including organizing joint football games between Jewish and Arab children. He also developed close ties with fans of the German club Werder Bremen.
Speaking on "5 Ba'avir - The Newsroom," John described how Hirsch's fandom was a significant part of his childhood, maturity, and sense of Israeli identity. He shared the immense difficulty of coping with the loss, stating, "Every day is hard, every moment is hard." He explained that the family is constantly multitasking, with Hirsch always on his mind. He misses the ordinary, everyday moments, like talking on the couch after dinner.
John also discussed various projects established in Hirsch's memory. These include a new mural outside the Arena and near Teddy Stadium depicting Hirsch and Uri Danino, another hostage who supported him in captivity. Additionally, a new basketball team, "Hapoel HaShisha Jerusalem," has been formed to honor the six hostages killed together, with its opening game scheduled for October 20 in Jerusalem. He highlighted the continued support from Hapoel Jerusalem's fans, owners, and players, as well as the visiting German fans from Bremen, as a source of strength.
Reflecting on Hirsch's character, John noted his son's unusual ability and desire to engage in conversations with people who held different views, whether on politics or sports, seeking to understand their perspectives. John expressed his own efforts to emulate this trait, encouraging dialogue and genuine listening. He concluded by emphasizing the potential for Israel to be the best country in the world, but stressed the need for continuous effort and mutual understanding.
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