Few people knew, but an amazing event took place in Austin from August 1 to 6. It was the Jewish Community Center of Austin’s (JCAA’s) annual Maccabi Games, an olympic-style event created for kids ages 13 to 16. This year more than 1,200 athletes converged on Austin to showcase their athletic skill, reconnect with old friends and hopefully make some new ones. From volleyball and bowling to basketball and hockey, kids all over the city worked hard and played harder. The Frank Erwin Center served as the backdrop for the opening ceremony on August 1 at 7 p.m., complete with a torch lighting and announcement of next year’s host city.

Days of Caring and Sharing
One of the featured events this year was Days of Caring and Sharing (D.O.C.A.S), a special time set aside for athletes to reflect on what they could accomplish in their community. Some of this year’s projects included: making flashcards for non-English speakers, filing backpacks with school supplies for Texas School for the Deaf, assembling baskets for Any Baby Can, providing dog biscuits and toys for animal shelters and much more.

Until Next Year
As the lights went down and the music got louder at the closing celebration, I could sense the importance of the event for the youth that participate each year. Much like a summer camp, the Maccabi Games represents a time when kids from all across the world come together for days filled with fun, fitness and strengthening of relationships among athletes. What’s more, they leave with a real sense of community and sportsmanship. And I could tell, for many, the chance to participate in next year’s Maccabi Games cannot come soon enough.