Since 1982, each summer, the JCC Movement has engaged more than 3,000 Jewish teens from across the globe and an additional 11,000+ family members, spectators, and volunteers through the Olympic- style magic of JCC Maccabi, one of the greatest Jewish peoplehood projects of our time. For the majority of JCC Maccabi athletes, 63% of whom report being otherwise unaffiliated with any other Jewish youth organization, JCC Maccabi remains their primary connection to the Jewish community, global Jewish life, and Israel—creating a remarkable and unmatched opportunity to engage them, support their efforts to build their Jewish identity, and have a significant and lasting impact on their lives.
Team Palisades 2026
Get Ready for the Magic of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games & Maccabi Access—Coming to Toronto, Canada!
Join thousands of teens for an unforgettable week packed with competition, community, and connection. This is more than a sporting event—it’s a life-changing experience.
Feel the Maccabi Magic
- Electrifying opening and closing ceremonies
- Meaningful community service projects
- Vibrant social and cultural events
- Friendships that last a lifetime
Important Dates
Maccabi Games: August 2–7, 2026 — Ages 13–17
Maccabi Access: August 2–5, 2026 — Ages 13–23 (individuals with special needs)
Pricing & Registration
Early Bird (through Jan 1, 2026): $2,700
Standard (after Jan 1): $2,850
Deposit: $500 to secure your spot
Payment Options: Pay in full or choose a payment plan
Sibling Discount: $200 off your second child’s registration
Join a Team!
We’re now forming boys’ and girls’ teams in:
Basketball, soccer, ice hockey, volleyball, baseball, softball, and swimming.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary global event—register today and let the excitement begin!
Contact Us at maccabi@jccotp.org
FAQs
What are The JCC Maccabi Games® ?
The JCC Maccabi Games are an international athletic competition for Jewish teenagers run much like the Olympics. Athletes have the opportunity to compete against Jewish teens from all over the United States as well as delegations from Israel, Great Britain, Mexico, Canada, and more! The games are played with a focus on “rachmanus” or sportsmanship with the intent to foster long-lasting memories and identification with Judaism and Israel. The Games also promote community involvement, teamwork, and pride in being Jewish. The Games are the largest Jewish teen event in the world.
Do you have to be Jewish to participate in the Games?
Yes. All JCC Maccabi athletes must be Jewish. Jewish is defined as the following: (i) the participant’s mother is Jewish, (ii) the participant is a convert to Judaism; or (iii) if the father is the only Jewish parent, the participant is eligible if they have been brought up Jewish. In the spirit of Maccabi, if the parent or child does not believe that they are Jewish on a year-round basis, then the athlete should not participate in the JCC Maccabi Games.
Is there an age requirement to participate?
Yes. You must be between the ages of 13 and 17 as of July 27, 2025, for any JCC Maccabi sport in Pittsburgh and Tucson. All access in Tucson includes the ages of 12-22.
Where will my teen stay?
A hallmark of the JCC Maccabi Games is the Home Hospitality Program. Each visiting athlete will be paired with a local host family from the Toronto Jewish community.
- Host families provide a safe, welcoming home for the week, including breakfast, evening activities, and transportation to and from daily events.
- This model not only fosters lifelong friendships but also helps athletes experience the warmth and hospitality of another JCC community.
- Each athlete will be able to request up to two roommates that they would like to be placed with. We will do our best to honor that.
- All host families are fully screened and approved by the host JCC’s Maccabi team.
What does a typical week look like:
A typical week in Maccabi is fast paced and super fun. The teens begin the week by arriving at their lodging location and getting settled. Later that evening, the teens will participate in an opening ceremony showcasing and celebrating our delegation. Monday-Thursday the teens will compete in their games and tournaments in the mornings. The afternoons will consist of hang time and super fun evening activities. We will end the week with a closing ceremony and return home the following day.
Can parents watch?
Parents may pay to be a spectator. Spectators may come to watch all ceremonies and games from the sidelines. They cannot take their children for any portion of the day.
Can I participate in the Games if I cannot be there all week?
No. You must commit to the entire week.
Is it free?
No. There is a charge that gives your teen an all-inclusive experience. Program fees include Games registration fees, travel/transportation, uniform, Team Palisades gear, Pre and post Games family dinners, adult supervision and coaches, practices, meals, social events/team activities, and all other accommodations throughout the experience. Teens do not need to bring any spending money except for food in the airports.
Is there financial assistance available for JCC Maccabi?
Yes! Please contact Maccabi@jccotp.org for more information.
Our family observes Shabbat and keeps kosher. Will my teen’s needs be met at Maccabi?
Yes, all food served at Maccabi is kosher and all transportation is schedule for teens to return home on Friday with plenty of time before Shabbat.
I have a lot more questions. How do I get the answers?
Please contact Maccabi@jccotp.org.