6/28/17: 20th World Maccabiah Games Update: First Day
Message from Jeff Bukantz, USA General Chairman
To paraphrase the catchphrase of pro wrestling legend The Rock, “Finally, Team USA has come back…to Israel!" After the many months of preparation and anticipation, it is hard to believe that we’re here at the 20th World Maccabiah Games.
Team USA is 1,127 strong and representing 44 states. We have athletes ranging from 14-85 (junior, youth, open, masters, grand-masters) who will comprise a total of 79 teams competing in 34 sports.
As I’ve said before, there is a distinct difference between the Maccabiah (also known as “The Jewish Olympics”) and the Olympics. At the Olympics, Team USA’s success is solely measured by the number of medals the athletes bring back home.
