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Team GB ready for Maccabiah Games lift-off

Joel Nathan, the General Team Manager of the Team Maccabi GB delegation, speaks to Danny Caro ahead of the 20th Maccabiah Games in Israel.

June 27, 2017 14:35
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5 min read

Q: After a highly success EMG 2015, what are you hopes for the Maccabiah Games, both in terms of medals and in general?
A: EMG 2015 was better than all of our expectations, both on and off the sporting front, but the Maccabiah is another level up. For me the first aim is to hope all of our athletes compete to the best of their ability, and whilst beating our medal haul of 24 medals in 2013 is a goal, I will not be a disappointed man if we did not reach that target.

Q:  Putting the finishing touches to squad preparations, what is the mood like in the camp?
A: From speaking to some of the squad members at Kit Day a few weeks ago, everyone is chomping at the bit to get on those planes and get to Israel so that they can take part in what will hopefully be an experience they will never forget. I have been trying to visit as many squad training sessions as possible and I can tell you the preparations the athletes are putting in is second to none.

Q:  How happy are you with the mix of Maccabiah veterans and debutantes?
A: I am very happy with the mix; it was always our goal to get as many new athletes involved as possible and it is going to be great to watch our Lacrosse team take part in the first Maccabiah Lacrosse tournament as well our Gymnastics (artistic and Rhythmic). Of course, there are some veterans taking part like Bernard Davidson who is competing in his ninth Maccabiah for Lawn Bowls and what a great night it will be to see him walk out in the Opening Ceremony with his two granddaughters Ella (Girl’s Netball) and Jazi (Girl’s Football).

Q: What would make a successful Maccabiah 2017 for Team MGB?
A: All of our athletes are representing  the Jewish community of Great Britain and as long as every member of Team MGB has given their all, and had an experience they will never forget, whilst making friends with Jews from all over the world, then for me they have experienced what the Maccabiah is all about.