UJS and Maccabi GB have collaborated for the upcoming academic year to reveal an exciting opportunity – one that holds the potential to revolutionise student sports.
Last year, ‘The Year of Student Sport’ initiative was brought to life by forward-thinking student leaders who were scattered across the country, with individuals like Aaron Black playing a pivotal role in this initiative. At the beginning of the last academic year opportunities for Jewish students to participate in sport on campus were few and far between, but through the efforts of these student leaders in partnership with UJS and Maccabi GB, they have collectively created a new era of sporting opportunities that has redefined the campus experience for Jewish students. For the very first time, JSoc teams from across the country benefitted from subsidies from Maccabi GB and UJS. The overarching goal has been to ensure a future brimming with abundant sports opportunities, not only for the present generation but for those to come. Going to university can be incredibly daunting, which is why a Jewish sports initiative could encourage those looking to be involved in sport in their new community whilst celebrating their Jewish identity.
In Birmingham, the Maccabi Selly Oak football team, a prominent fixture of the JSoc community, has emerged as a trailblazer, leading the charge for enhanced Jewish university sports opportunities. Sam Ucko, a dedicated student from Birmingham, took the revolutionary step of establishing the first Jewish women's university football team. Sam and the newly formed Maccabi Selly Oak Women's team have taken an active stance, advocating for the creation of a women's intramural football league within the Birmingham region. Their determined efforts extend beyond local horizons; over the forthcoming year, they aim to create additional Jewish women's university football teams across the country. In Leeds, JSoc Football team Hapoel Hyde Park, under the leadership of Jasper van Veen, has proven to be an instrumental force. Jasper’s efforts have been bolstered by the dedicated contributions of Alex Mandel, Jake Lanzkron, Jonah Lazarus and Noah Meszarich, together with the collective spirit of the entire squad. The Nottingham JSoc community has been enriched by the popularity of the Notts JSoc Netball Team and the recent introduction of the JSoc football team, Lenton Orient. Jenna Morris, the driving force behind the netball team's management, garnered recognition with a nomination for UJS's Volunteer of the Year award, Jenna's dedication has ushered in a new era for the Jewish netball movement.
Maccabi GB, UJS and NextGen Inc have joined forces for the 2023/24 academic year to help create a home away from home for Jewish students, who may miss playing at their local sport clubs or at school. The newly formed Student Sports Committee are exploring new avenues to expand the current opportunities available to Jewish students in sport. This initiative will encompass every aspect of the sporting journey, from the initial stages of registrations to the provision of sports kits, essential equipment, and even travel arrangements – all are integral components of this project. However, its scope extends far beyond the realm of existing teams. The project currently brings together ten affiliated teams spanning six campuses and a further three campuses are expected to join this month.
As we find ourselves on the verge of the 2023/24 academic year, it is set to be an exciting time for Jewish students looking to get involved in sport at their university. Whether it's the allure of the football pitch or the finesse of the netball courts, everything will be set for exciting and eagerly awaited showdowns.
This invitation is open to all Jewish students who are eager to embrace the world of sports. The expedition begins with a straightforward yet significant stride – expressing your interest by registering on www.maccabigb.org/studentsport. Seize this opportunity to proudly wear your JSoc colours and stand as a representative of your university.
The calendar will be packed with many events that aim to excite those of all sporting flavours. The initiative is looking to champion both team and individual sports, offering a platform for every student to shine. These events would also serve as great opportunities to make friends for life and connect with other Jewish students from across the UK. There are hopes that this partnership could create more opportunities for students including cross university competitions and fixtures across universities.
The revival of Student Sport is strategically positioned to encompass the diverse Jewish student population spanning the length and breadth of the nation. Regardless of your location on the map, we would love to see you get involved with this new movement. The enthusiasm and passion that surround the world of sports knows no limits, transcending any geographical boundaries. This particular juncture serves as an opportune time for you to immerse yourself fully into a vibrant community.
There will be a spring event held as part of the project, that will look to unite students from all corners of the nation. It will look to create an atmosphere where the geographical boundaries that usually keep us apart fade away, and a sense of togetherness prevails. The event will be a testament to the power of unity and the ability of sport to bring us all together.
The 2023/24 academic year is poised to be a spectacular journey that encapsulates the very essence of what it means to be a Jewish student. The call is yours to answer, the stage is yours to conquer – let the games begin! To register or to find out more information please visit www.maccabigb.org
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