41ST JUNIOR CARNIVAL UNITING JEWISH YOUTH ACROSS AUSTRALIA

41^ST JUNIOR CARNIVAL UNITING JEWISH YOUTH ACROSS AUSTRALIA

The 41st Maccabi Junior Carnival, a highly anticipated sporting event for Jewish youth in Australia, took place from Sunday January 15th to Sunday January 22nd in Melbourne. The Maccabi Junior Carnival, hosted by Maccabi Victoria, brought together over 200 Jewish youth from year 7 to year 10 from various states across Australia for a week of fun, friendship, and competition.

This year’s Junior Carnival featured a diverse array of sport competitions, including netball, basketball, badminton, volleyball, futsal, soccer, tennis, and table tennis, which were held at various sporting fields and venues throughout Melbourne. Teams from different states competed for medals across all sports. There were some great goals, skilful passing and power smashes but most importantly, Carni Kids showcased incredible teamwork, respect and sportsmanship.

Alongside the sports competitions, participants also engaged in a variety of fun social activities in the evenings, fostering bonds and friendships in a fun, relaxed and enjoyable setting. The program included an arcade night, pool party, dance party, silent disco and a carnival night, full of games and carnival food.

There are numerous reasons why Maccabi Junior Carnival have been so successful but without a doubt the underlying factor has been the philosophy of ‘participation’ and ‘involvement’. Encouraging youth to take part and be active in Carnival has been key in fostering a sense of community and belonging among Jewish youth in Australia. The emphasis on inclusion and engagement has created an environment that promotes fun, friendship, and celebration all while uniting kids through their shared love of sport!

The 41st Junior Carnival was a resounding success thanks to the hard work and dedication of Tali Friede, Carnival Manager, Shari Cohen, Maccabi VIC GM, Ruth Clare, Carnival Event Manager, Martin Jona, Sports Manager and all team managers, youth leaders, volunteers, and Maccabi professional staff – their contributions were invaluable and greatly appreciated. We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to our patron Sam Parasol OAM, Solomons Kosher Butcher, The Fruit Box, Party Higher, and the Glen Eira Council.