Israeli Basketball Player Beniya Sarur Balances Religious Observance with National Team Duties

Beniya Sarur, a basketball player recently called up to the Israeli national team for the first time, faces a unique challenge balancing his religious lifestyle with his professional sports commitments. Sarur, who played last season for Elitzur Netanya, is preparing for upcoming friendly matches against Germany and Croatia. Despite the excitement of his debut, he maintains strict adherence to his religious practices, including fasting on the fast day of the 17th of Tammuz while continuing to train with the team.

The national team has made accommodations for Sarur's observance, providing kosher food throughout training camps and travel, and arranging for representatives to visit Chabad houses to secure necessary provisions. Ahead of the trip to Croatia, Sarur will join the team after Shabbat ends on Sunday to avoid violating the Sabbath. He is expected to play in the match against Germany, which takes place during Shabbat, and will travel with the team to the game since it starts before Shabbat ends. However, on the return trip, he plans to walk approximately 35 minutes back to the hotel, accompanied by a security guard, to comply with Sabbath restrictions.

The team and staff are making concerted efforts to support Sarur in integrating his religious commitments with his role on the national team, highlighting the complexities athletes face when balancing faith and professional sports.