Category:Sports in Israel

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The main article for this category is Sports in Israel.

When it comes to sport in Israel, the emphasis has traditionally been on participation rather than the production of elite athletes. Part of the reason for this is the necessary compulsory military service that almost all Israeli perform after turning 18 years old. Another reason may be in the Jewish ethos and psyche that has tradtionally considered it important to have a healthly mind and healthy body, but has not always endorsed athletic pursuits as a form of competition. This can be seen in the story of the Maccabees (and Chanukah) and their rejection of the Ancient Olympic ideals.

Nonetheless, many modern Israelis follow football and basketball sporting teams almost as ardently as many other Europeans do. In the Olympic Games, Israel has won medals in judo, fencing, and sailboarding.

From a participatory perspective, many Israelis enjoy non-competitive activities such as swimming, going on tiyul (hiking trips), and playing Matkot on the beach.