Former Israeli Goalkeeper Avi Liberman Reflects on Career and Personal Life

Avi Liberman, a notable Israeli goalkeeper who played primarily for Beitar Tel Aviv during the 1970s and 1980s, shared insights about his sports career and personal background. Born on May 15, 1955, in Ness Ziona to parents who immigrated from Poland and Vilna, Liberman excelled in multiple sports during his youth, including basketball and athletics. He began his football career as a goalkeeper for Ness Ziona's senior team at age 16 and later served in the IDF's Nahal brigade after initially starting in a prestigious flight course.

Liberman's professional football journey included significant stints at Beitar Tel Aviv, where he was signed for a high transfer fee of 65,000 Israeli lira, and later at Maccabi Jaffa and Maccabi Sha'arayim. Despite a severe back injury at age 27 that required surgery and sidelined him for a year, he made a strong comeback. He was recognized as the most valuable player of the year by Ma'ariv newspaper, although he narrowly missed out on goalkeeper of the year honors.

A memorable episode in his career involved a decisive match between Beitar Tel Aviv and Hakoah Ramat Gan, where Liberman, after a morning of diving and fishing at Palmachim beach, stepped in to play and delivered an outstanding performance, helping his team win 1-0. Later, after contract disputes with Beitar Tel Aviv, he joined Hapoel Be'er Sheva, where he won the League Cup in 1988 and the Toto Cup in 1989.

Liberman is also remembered for his penalty-saving skills, notably stopping four penalties in a single cup match. After retiring from professional football, he lived in Had Nes in the Golan Heights and managed the Jordan Park. He is married to Mimi, with three children and eight grandchildren. Tragically, his son Asaf was killed 14 years ago in a drunk-driving accident. His son Gal continues the family legacy as a goalkeeper in Ness Ziona.