Israeli Volleyball League Coaches Discuss Expectations for 2026-27 Season

The Israeli Men's Volleyball Premier League is set to commence its 2026-27 season on Tuesday, featuring 11 teams, including the newly added Hapoel Husam Nazareth. The league's structure includes a first stage of two full rounds, followed by a second stage where the top six teams advance to an upper bracket and the remaining five compete in a lower bracket. The knockout stage will see the top four teams reach the playoff semifinals, with the winners proceeding to a best-of-five championship series.

Coaches from various teams shared their perspectives on the upcoming season, highlighting expectations, roster changes, team chemistry, and individual challenges. Noam Katz of Hapoel Mate Asher, the reigning champion, aims to defend titles, emphasizing the need for quick team cohesion with a largely new roster. Maccabi "Yedim" Tel Aviv's coach, Gal Galili, is focused on securing both domestic titles and advancing in the European Challenge Cup, noting good initial chemistry despite pending foreign player signings.

Chen Himplerov of Hapoel Kfar Saba aims for the upper playoff bracket, prioritizing the development of young players and strong team chemistry, bolstered by returning foreign players and new leadership. Adi Tdmar of Hapoel HaMaozpil/Emek Hefer/Menashe is targeting a spot in the upper bracket, stressing excellent chemistry and respect among players, with improvements in key positions and a focus on professional support.

Omer Marshensky of Maccabi SVA Rehovot seeks a professional leap forward, emphasizing team chemistry, character, and the integration of talented young homegrown players. Moran Tzur Lok of Maccabi Ashdod is building a team with a blend of energetic foreign players and young Israeli talent, prioritizing the development of local players. Alexander Shapranovich of Maccabi Musayoun Hod Hasharon aims for a competitive season with quality volleyball and strong team cohesion, especially after significant roster changes.

Vadim Dolgikh of Hapoel Jerusalem is focused on building a stable, competitive team capable of challenging any opponent, emphasizing faster play and a balance between risk-taking and patience. Simaan Simaan of M.S. Ailaboun has upgraded the team and aims for a top-four finish, highlighting a strong cross player and a mix of experienced and talented young players. Fouad Hajiyev of Maccabi Ironi Kiryat Ata, after finishing last season at the bottom, aims to improve the team's standing and develop young homegrown players, incorporating South American players for better social cohesion.

Saher Samaan of Hapoel Husam Nazareth, in their debut Premier League season, aims to remain in the league and foster the development of young players, emphasizing energy, discipline, and fighting spirit. The coaches also shared personal insights, mentioning favorite travel destinations and their individual challenges in motivating and developing their teams.