Young Jewish athletes arrive in our neighborhood for the 2015 Maccabi Games, via Facebook

Athletes arrive in our neighborhood for the 2015 Maccabi Games, via Facebook

I learned about the 2015 JCC Maccabi Games through an email. It wasn’t a press release, as you might expect, but a traffic advisory.

“The Jewish Community Center advises that there will be heavy traffic on Northaven Road through Friday, August 5,” the message says. “It’s related to the Maccabi games, for which they expect 5,000+ attendees.”

I was intrigued instantly, as I am by any event that draws so many spectators. Here’s what I discovered.

The Maccabi Games is like the Olympics for Jewish youth. Each year, thousands of kids from around the world come together to play volleyball, soccer, tennis, baseball and a slew of other sports. But this isn’t just about athletics. Since 1982, the Maccabi Games has instilled confidence and a sense of community in its participants. Dallas is one of three cities hosting the event this year. An elaborate opening ceremony was held last night at SMU’s Moody Coliseum. Most games will take place in our neighborhood at the Aaron Family Jewish Community Center. Attendance is free but you must click here to register.