Maccabi

Maccabi is the name used for a global network of Jewish sports clubs and associations. The term derives from the Maccabees, the ancient Jewish military-religious group, and has become a symbol of communal identity in sport. The best-known umbrella organization is the Maccabi World Union, which coordinates affiliated clubs and supports athletic programs in Jewish communities around the world.

The Maccabi movement began in the early 20th century among Jewish communities in Europe and in areas that would later become Israel. It grew as a federation of clubs that promote sport as a means of cultural connection, education, and national building. A central feature of the movement is the Maccabiah Games, established in the British Mandate of Palestine and later held in Israel; the event is often described as the Jewish Olympics and gathers athletes from many countries.

In Israel, many sports clubs carry the Maccabi name, including well-known football clubs such as Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, and Maccabi Netanya. These clubs compete across a range of sports, including football (soccer), basketball, tennis, volleyball, and swimming, among others. Internationally, Maccabi clubs operate in numerous countries, offering youth programs, leagues, and competitions aligned with the federation’s goals.

Today, the Maccabi movement remains a prominent facet of Jewish sports life, aiming to foster athletic development, community ties, and cultural identity through sport across continents.