jcc maccabi games: FAQS

What are The JCC Maccabi Games^®?
The JCC Maccabi Games are an international athletic competition for Jewish teenagers modeled after the Olympics. Athletes compete against Jewish teens from across the United States as well as delegations from Israel, Great Britain, Mexico, Canada and more. The Games emphasize rachmanus (sportsmanship), with the goal of fostering long-lasting friendships, meaningful memories and deeper connections to Judaism and Israel.

This unique event is not only about athletic competition—it’s also about the mission of making the world a better place and becoming better individuals. We express these values, or middot, to help us remember the greater purpose of both the Games and Judaism. We emphasize tikkun olam (repairing the world), kavod (respect), rina (joy), ga’ava (pride), lev tov (big-heartedness), and Amiut Yehudit (Jewish peoplehood). The Games also promote community involvement and teamwork.

The JCC Maccabi Games are one of the largest Jewish teen events in the world. Each summer, more than 3,000 Jewish teens participate, and since 1982, over 100,000 have benefited from this incredible experience. During this week-long “Jewish Olympic-style” event, athletes participate in one of fifteen sports, enjoy social activities and take part in a community service project—creating memories that last a lifetime.

Where and when are the Games this year?
Toronto, Canada | August 2–7, 2026

Who is eligible to participate in the JCC Maccabi Games?

• Jewish teens between the ages of 13 as of August 2, 2026, and no older than 17 as of August 7, 2026, are eligible to participate with Team Peninsula Palo Alto.
• “Jewish” is defined as having at least one Jewish parent and being raised Jewish or the athlete is a Jew by choice and is being raised Jewish.

What sports are being offered in Toronto?
Team sports: Boys Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Girls Softball, Girls Volleyball, Ice Hockey
Individual sports: Dance, Golf, Star Reporter, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field

What is a delegation?
Just as Olympic athletes represent their home countries, teens at the JCC Maccabi Games represent their local JCC delegations. Typically, a delegation is the JCC closest to an athlete’s home. In our case, we combine forces to represent both the OFJCC and PJCC as one delegation—Team Peninsula Palo Alto!

What is a mixed team?
A mixed team is composed of athletes from multiple delegations. If we are unable to field a full team in a particular sport, athletes will be combined with other delegations (except for Boys Basketball 5v5).

Being on a mixed team is a great opportunity to build friendships with Jewish teens from around the world. Because our delegation focuses on the overall experience rather than filling specific rosters, we welcome athletes in all sports—which means many participants may compete on mixed teams.

Will there be tryouts?
Tryouts may occur if a particular sport has more interested athletes than available spots. However, most athletes will be able to participate in their sport of choice without trying out.

There’s a wide range of skill levels represented at the Games, and our goal is for everyone with a passion for their sport and the spirit of the Games to feel welcome.

How will athletes travel to and from the Games?
Our delegation will begin the adventure together by meeting at the airport (likely SFO) to fly to Toronto. At the end of the week, parents will pick up their athletes at the airport upon our return. Travel plans are not yet finalized; additional details will be shared closer to the event.

Where do the athletes stay during the Games?
Teens will stay with wonderful volunteer host families from the local Jewish community. Host families are background-checked, screened and required to attend an orientation.

Teens can request hosts that meet specific needs (e.g., dietary restrictions, pet allergies) and can also request a specific roommate. Otherwise, they will be paired with another teen from their delegation, typically within the same sport.

On rare occasions, delegations may be housed in alternative accommodations (e.g., hotels or dorms), but we anticipate staying with host families in Toronto.

Who are the adult chaperones at the JCC Maccabi Games?
The JCC requires a minimum ratio of 1 adult to every 8 teens. Our delegation will include co-Delegation Heads, coaches, and other support staff, depending on need.

All adults are carefully selected to serve as positive role models and must pass background checks conducted through both the FBI and DOJ.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?
In the event of a medical emergency, Delegation Heads will act as the participant’s guardian and coordinate with parents to ensure proper care. Because this is an athletic event, injuries can happen, but our staff is trained and prepared to support athletes in any situation.

What is security like at the JCC Maccabi Games?
Security is taken very seriously. All adults involved undergo background checks, and everyone—including participants, spectators, coaches, host families and volunteers—must wear official credentials to access any JCC Maccabi facility.

The host community works closely with local, state and federal law enforcement to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

When will registration open? 
Registration for the 2026 Team Peninsula Palo Alto Delegation opened November 13, 2025.

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis, though we may reserve spots in certain sports to maintain balance within our delegation.

What is the cost for participating?
The total cost for the JCC Maccabi Games is $2,650.

This fee covers all costs related to the Games, including travel, uniforms, meals, pre- and post-Games events and more. A small amount of spending money is allowed but not necessary.

Will there be opportunities for scholarships?
Yes—need-based financial assistance is available to help make participation accessible for all families. For more information, please contact Dave Rosenfeld at [email protected].

Can parents be spectators at the JCC Maccabi Games?
Absolutely! Parents, family members and friends are welcome to attend the Games as spectators. A spectator pass grants access to the Opening Ceremony and sporting events.

All spectators must wear an official credential to enter any Games venue. Once registration opens, you can register as a spectator through the same website used to register your teen.

How can I stay up to date with information about Team Peninsula Palo Alto?
To receive the latest updates—including registration details, information nights and more—please complete the JCC Maccabi Games Interest Form, which will add you to our Maccabi Games mailing list.

If you have any questions or would like to speak with someone directly, feel free to reach out to either of our Delegation Heads:

• Dave Rosenfeld (OFJCC) | (650) 223-8607 | [email protected]
• Claire Greason (PJCC) | (650) 378-2667 | [email protected]