Happy 80th birthday, Jeanne!

A hearty mazel tov to Jeanne Futeran on the occasion of her 80th birthday on 26 August.

Jeanne served as Chairwoman of Maccabi South Africa from 1993-1997. She has also played an influential role on the Maccabi World Union executive – she was appointed Maccabi World Union Vice-President and then President in 2001, the first woman to hold both positions. In 2009, Jeanne received the global Yakir Award for outstanding services to Maccabi.

Wishing this trailblazer and icon of the Maccabi movement a very happy birthday and many more.

It’s a Century Up for Maccabi World Union! 

Maccabi World Union (MWU) was founded on 29 August, 1921. On Sunday 29 Aug 2021, MWU kicked off its centennial year of celebrations, which will culminate at the 2022 Maccabiah.

In his speech, the President of the State of Israel, Mr. Izhak Herzog, praised the 100 years celebration held at Kfar Maccabiah.

The President’s father, Haim Herzog, the 6th President of the State of Israel was born in Ireland and competed in the Maccabi Dublin boxing club. The President spoke highly about Maccabi World Union’s role in the Jewish world as well as in the development of the State of Israel. Mr. Herzog is looking forward to the opening of the 21st Maccabiah in Teddy Stadium, Jerusalem in July 2022.

The Minister of Culture & Sports, Hili Tropper spoke about the great support of the Israeli Government and the importance of having the Maccabiah in July 2022. He also mentioned that his Ministry together with the Ministry of Health will assist with vaccines for athletes and to ensure the safety of the Maccabiah.

The Israeli Olympian medalists, Yael Arad, Arik Ze’evi, Linoy Ashram & Avishag Semberg were honoured to take part in the ceremony – Linoy and Avishag will participate in the 21st Maccabiah.

MWU also honoured past chairmen and seniors of the movement with the 100th Anniversary medal.

The ceremony was broadcast live on the Israeli Sports channel No5 with thousands of viewers. Many articles were also published in the print media both in Hebrew and English (image: Jerusalem Post).

Maccabi South Africa is very proud to have been part of this exceptional organisation for 85 years. Mazel tov!

Back to News