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 2025
Tucson, AZ July 27- Aug 1 (Ages 13-17)
ACCESS Tucson, AZ July 27- Aug 1 (Ages 12-22)
Pittsburgh, PA Aug 3-8 (Ages 13-17)
We are now forming teams for boys and girls ages 9 – 12!
In Pittsburgh and in Tucson, teens ages 13-17 will feel the magic of the week-long competition that brings over 1,000 Jewish athletes from around the world together. This year, Tucson includes Access for those athletes with Disabilities.
We are now forming teams for boys and girls ages 13-17! Specialties include:
Basketball
Soccer
Ice Hockey
Volleyball
Swimming
Tennis
Baseball
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?
During the week in Pittsburgh, teens will be staying in what we are calling, the athletes village. This will take place on the University of Pittsburgh’s campus. This will be a unique and fun experience to dorm together throughout the week of the games. During the week of Maccabi in Tucson, athletes will stay with host families. Many teens say that the host families were one of their favorite parts of the experience. Host families are Jewish homes in Tucson that are part of their greater JCC communities. Host families are background checked, screened, and required to attend a mandatory orientation. Teens can request specific homes that meet their needs such as dietary and pet allergies. Participants may not arrange their own housing or stay in hotels. The home hospitality experience is an important part of the Games experience. We are very gracious to these host families as they serve as interim parents for the week transporting the teens to and from Maccabi, provide breakfast, laundry, and give your teen an unforgettable home hospitality experience. Many teens will stay in touch with host families for years to come!
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.