Israeli Ninja Athlete Gil Marantz Highlights Pride and Unity at Maccabiah Games

Gil Marantz, a prominent Israeli ninja athlete, spoke at the Maccabiah City event held at Expo Tel Aviv during the Israeli Ninja Championship. Marantz emphasized that the Maccabiah Games represent much more than sports, especially in the current period, stating, "At this time, we need to feel the most pride and unity. There is no better way to show the world who we are than through sports."

Marantz shared his unconventional path to success, noting that he only began engaging in sports toward the end of his military service. Initially, he started by going to the gym, then became a coach, learned various training methods, and eventually found his way into ninja sports, which changed his life. Despite rapid progress, he acknowledged the significant personal sacrifices, particularly giving up much of his social life to pursue his athletic career.

He also reflected on a key lesson learned over the years: for a long time, he tied his identity and self-worth to his achievements. Marantz now understands that accomplishments are a bonus and do not define who he is. He aims to instill this mindset in the children and teenagers he coaches, viewing sports as a tool for building self-confidence, resilience, and a sense of capability. "You have no choice but to get up after every fall," he said, adding that ninja sports uniquely foster this feeling of empowerment for him.