Special Olympics Israel and the Yellow & Blue Under-17 & Under-16 teams participated in a unique event at the Kiryat Shalom Training Facility as the Special Olympics Torch Relay made its final stop before the start of the National games between Sunday evening and Tuesday afternoon at the Wingate Institute. Together with Special Olympics athletes, the two sides took part in a ceremony to mark the brand new partnership between the Maccabi Foundation and the International movement that recognizes the abilities of those with intellectual disabilities.
Josh Halickman, Head of the Foundation spoke about the importance of the collaboration and how exciting it is to have the two sets of athletes on the same playing field while Daniel Benaim, President of Special Olympics Israel discussed the amazing privilege it is to be part of the Maccabi Tel Aviv FC family. Special Olympics Israel CEO Reuven Astrachan presented Sharon Tammam, Commercial Director of the Club with an honorary award as a signed Special Olympics logo Maccabi jersey was given in exchange.
After the moving ceremony, the youth clubs ran around the pitch, hand in hand with the Special Olympics athletes holding the Torch together in unison creating a healthier, more respectful and welcoming world for all.
