Israeli Football Association Launches League for Disabled Veterans and Combatants
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
The Israel Football Association, Beit HaLochem, and the Organization of Disabled IDF Veterans have launched a special football league for disabled veterans and combatants, many of whom found solace in the sport after October 7th. Top Israeli clubs are providing support, with the Association managing league operations. Chairman Shino Zuarz called the initiative a 'sacred' effort to support those who fought for Israel, emphasizing its therapeutic benefits and the inspiration drawn from the participants.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel Football Association launched a league for disabled veterans and combatants.
- The initiative provides therapy through football for those affected since October 7th.
- Major Israeli clubs like Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv are participating.
- The league aims to strengthen the bond between fans and their clubs.
- Chairman Shino Zuarz praised the league as a 'sacred' and therapeutic endeavor.
The Israel Football Association, in collaboration with Beit HaLochem and the Organization of Disabled IDF Veterans, has launched a special league for disabled veterans and combatants. The initiative was established following a significant increase in combatants experiencing PTSD since the October 7th attacks, many of whom have found therapy in football.
Several prominent Israeli football clubs, including Maccabi Haifa, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, MS Ashdod, and Beitar Jerusalem, are participating. The league is open to any combatant recognized by the Organization of Disabled IDF Veterans who supports one of the participating clubs, thereby strengthening the connection between the fans and their teams. The clubs are responsible for providing facilities, uniforms, and logistics, while the Football Association manages the league and provides referees.
Future events are planned, including a match against a veteran national team and another event in December, similar to the reservists' league. The goal is to create an educational framework through football in cooperation with the Association.
Shino Zuarz, Chairman of the Football Association, stated that the project began two years ago after a visit to Beit HaLochem. He expressed his happiness at the successful collaboration, emphasizing its importance for those who fought and defended Israel. Zuarz described the league as primarily for 'fun,' beneficial for 'heart and soul,' and hoped it would continue beyond a one-time event.
Zuarz also highlighted the crucial role of football in supporting the nation since October 7th, connecting society and aiding those in need. He called this work 'sacred' and praised the participants as a source of inspiration for their resilience and enjoyment despite their experiences. Looking ahead to the national team's upcoming matches, he expressed hope for improved performance and results, acknowledging the significant initiatives undertaken by clubs and their fans.
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