UPDATE: The second annual Israel Cup concluded on September 10, 2023, in Netanya, showcasing an electrifying clash between the Tel Aviv Cheetahs and the Jerusalem Lions, featuring a vibrant mix of Australian and Israeli talent. This thrilling match ended with the Cheetahs seizing victory by a score of 112-92, marking a significant moment in the development of AFL in Israel.
Played under the lights at the prestigious Wingate Institute of Sport, the game captivated fans with its intensity and skill. The Cheetahs, composed mainly of Israeli players, initially led by two points at halftime, only to see the Lions, mostly comprised of young Australians on gap years, take the lead by the same margin after the third quarter. However, the Cheetahs delivered a stunning performance in the final moments, scoring two quick goals to secure their win.
Ethan Gabriel, a dynamic Israeli international half forward, was named Best on Ground, scoring an impressive five goals. Other standout performances came from ruckman Ofer Be’er, and full forwards Ilan Cohen and Nitzan Elad. For the Lions, Ari Fell shone in the midfield, contributing three goals to the team’s efforts.
The event also featured a mini match at halftime, showcasing the future of AFL Israel—a spirited team of 8 and 9-year-olds from northern Israel, who energized the crowd with their enthusiasm.
Israeli international Alon Fink, who spent four months playing for AJAX in Melbourne, described the event as “amazing.” He expressed gratitude for the skills learned abroad, stating, “The level was very high with physical play, clean hands, and high skill. Although we have a long way to go, I can see how much we’ve improved here in recent years.”
Former AJAX junior Ramel Chrapot, representing the Lions, also praised the competition, saying, “I’m very excited for where AFL Israel can go.”
The women’s match added to the day’s excitement, featuring two teams split between the Ibex, donning the national team’s colors, and another team in AJAX tri-colors. Despite trailing for most of the game, the Ibex rallied late, scoring four consecutive goals—three from Best on Ground Shachar Pakter—to clinch victory with a score of 55-42. Notable performances from the losing team included Sarah Drapkin, who scored three goals, and Talya Finkelstein.
Pakter, who was introduced to Aussie Rules through her cousins, expressed her excitement about the sport’s growth in Israel. “It’s exciting to be part of this growing sport in our community,” she said, highlighting the burgeoning interest in AFL among Israeli women.
This year’s Israel Cup not only showcased the competitive spirit of Australian football but also highlighted the growing enthusiasm for the sport in Israel. With both men’s and women’s teams displaying remarkable talent, the future looks bright for AFL in the region. The community eagerly anticipates the continued evolution of this captivating sport as more players join the ranks and elevate the game to new heights.
