In the late 1930s, antisemitic riots threatened the Jewish population of Bratislava in Europe. A young Imi Lichtenfeld would piece together a technique to fight back against anti-Jewish gangs roving the streets, not knowing that it would later be practiced worldwide. At the beginning of creating what would become known as Krav Maga, is another beloved Jewish tradition - the Maccabi Games, both of which continue today right here at Jewish Peninsula.

Together with other Jewish boxers and wrestlers, Lichtenfeld helped to defend his Jewish neighborhood against escalating violence. He quickly began developing a system of techniques for practical self-defense in life-threatening situations. Fast forward a few years... Imi attended the Maccabi Games as a wrestler, along with his fellow Jewish peers. From this formative visit the foundation of Krav Maga was formed.

The Maccabi Games, sometimes referred to as the "Jewish Olympics,” is an international multi-sport event with summer and winter sports competitions, featuring Jews and Israelis regardless of religion. With over 10,000 competing athletes, the International Maccabiah Games is the third-largest sporting event in the world by number of competitors, behind the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup. It recognizes over 40 sports today and historically has included everything from swimming to squash.

Unfortunately for Imi, he would sit out of the competition due to a broken rib he incurred while on the road training. Fortunately for us however, this gave Imi the time to be a spectator of all different events from the sidelines, refining the principles of the evolving sport that would one day be known as Krav Maga. Taking nods from wrestling, boxing, and judo, Krav Maga is an eclectic but efficient system that is simple for any age to learn. Embedded into training is also practical life lessons centered around respect and self-discipline.

We’re proud to offer both Krav Maga and Maccabi Games to our community here at Jewish Peninsula. Partnering with Krav Maga of Hampton Roads, an all-ages group has started learning the basics of this amazing sport right here at the J.

Next summer in August, nearly 2,000 Jewish teens and thousands of families will gather to celebrate Jewish life in a historic display of pride, unity and sportsmanship. Bring your “eh” game because the Maccabi Games, for the first time in 40 years, is headed to Toronto!

Come to the J on February 8th, for an info session on how you and your teen can get in on these truly historic Maccabi Games.