Netanya Launches Youth Soccer League with Former Players

The Netanya Municipality has launched a new neighborhood soccer league for teenagers in 10th to 12th grades. The league, which will run from November to June, aims to foster a sense of belonging and pride among local youth. Eight teams, representing different neighborhoods and areas of the city, will participate.

The program includes twice-weekly training sessions, inter-team matches, and personal guidance from professional coaches and mentors from the soccer world. Slobodan Drapić will lead the league professionally, with former player Eyal Golasa serving as the chief mentor. Other notable figures involved include Amiya Taga, Chen Ezra, Shir Tzedek, Eden Shamir, Yarden Cohen, Dudu Biton, and Ravid Gazal.

Initiated by Deputy Mayor Shai Elgali and encouraged by Mayor Avi Salama, the project's goal is to place youth at the center, strengthen neighborhood identity, and create a sports, social, and values-based framework. Mentors will share their professional and personal experiences to help young participants develop perseverance, responsibility, and teamwork.

The vision is to use soccer as a tool to connect young people with their neighborhoods, strengthen the community, and provide an opportunity for every boy and girl to grow, believe in themselves, and dream big.