Hapoel Jerusalem Launches "Rebound for Life" Program for IDF Veterans

Hapoel Jerusalem Basketball Club, in collaboration with the Jerusalem Municipality and the "Mesira Magenet" association, has launched "Rebound for Life," a unique resilience program for IDF and security forces veterans dealing with physical and mental injuries. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive sports and social framework to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into daily life.

The program's inaugural training session took place on Friday, featuring 17 registered participants under the guidance of coach Rahamim Yona. "Rebound for Life" includes weekly professional basketball training, social gatherings, team-building activities, and other content designed to foster a sense of belonging, empower participants, and create a supportive community.

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion expressed pride in the initiative, stating, "The Jerusalem Municipality and I are proud and excited to take part in this important project. IDF and security forces veterans have gone through and are going through a difficult journey, and the rehabilitation process requires strength and a supportive environment. Through basketball, a group, a community, and a place of belonging, friendship, and support are being created here, where everyone can progress at their own pace. It is important for us that you know you are not alone. Jerusalem is a city of mutual responsibility, and we will continue to be by your side, to embrace you, and to act for your benefit."

Oren Arieli, CEO of Hapoel Jerusalem, highlighted the club's commitment, saying, "As a club based on its community, we are proud and happy to lead this special program, which centers on those injured physically and mentally from the IDF and security forces. 'Rebound for Life' expresses our belief in the power of basketball to connect people, to strengthen, to empower, and in the unique power of the Hapoel Jerusalem community to be there for each other. This project is another expression of our commitment to the community."

Ofik Nissim, founder of "Mesira Magenet," added, "At 'Mesira Magenet,' we embarked on a journey to help rehabilitate IDF, security, and rescue forces veterans, physically and mentally. I am proud that a prestigious club like Hapoel Jerusalem has chosen to join us on this journey, and I especially thank Gal Mekel, Oren Arieli, and Pepi Turgeman, who have taken the project forward. Anyone injured in service, at any stage of rehabilitation and recognition, is invited to join the new group. Here they will find a community that understands them and lifelong friends."