In the run-up to the European Maccabi Youth Games (EMYG) 2024 in London, the juniors of the Maccabi Germany delegation completed an intensive pre-camp in Frankfurt. It was characterised by challenging training sessions, informative educational seminars, a joint Shabbat celebration and a moving memorial ceremony for the victims of the 1972 Olympic attacks. EOA President Manfred Laemmer and Executive Officer Bastian Grueger took part in the vital event, which was also attended by high-ranking personalities such as Federal Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser and Abraham Lehrer, Vice President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany. The historical and moral obligation to keep the memory of such tragic events alive and simultaneously build a bridge to the future was impressively emphasised and shared by the EOA.
The successive EMYG 2024 in London is a remarkable event that not only celebrates the sporting talent of young Jewish athletes from all over Europe and the world but also sends a strong signal against Antisemitism. The opening ceremony marked an impressive start with over 800 participants from 12 nations, including Israel, the USA and Germany. This year’s EMYG has particular significance for the Jewish community, nine months after the devastating Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. Considered the largest pogrom against Jews since 1945, this historic attack has shaken the lives of many people. Nevertheless, by participating in these games, the Maccabi movement demonstrates determination and cohesion and sends a powerful signal in favour of peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.
The MAKKABI Germany delegation, consisting of 120 juniors aged 12 to 18, was represented in seven sports and achieved outstanding results. They won a total of 21 medals, including three gold, ten silver and eight bronze medals.
The London Games are another milestone on the road to the Maccabiah 2025 in Israel, one of the most significant sporting events in the world with over 11,000 athletes. The European Olympic Academies congratulate all participants and organisers of the European Maccabi Youth Games 2024 on this exceptional event and look forward to supporting the continuation of this vital tradition in Israel in 2025.
