Pitt will host the JCC Maccabi Games in summer 2025

In summer 2025, the University of Pittsburgh will host the world’s largest in-person Jewish youth sporting event in partnership with the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Pittsburgh and the JCC Association of North America.

The JCC Maccabi Games are the world’s largest in-person Jewish youth sporting event and has engaged more than 500,000 people globally over the last four decades. Beyond the teen experience, the Games are a powerful opportunity to galvanize thousands of volunteers, spectators, partners and sponsors of diverse ages and interests in a monumental planning process and community-building endeavor.

“We are delighted to partner with our local JCC and the continental JCC community in piloting an innovative new model of the JCC Maccabi Games,” said Chancellor Joan Gabel. “The University of Pittsburgh looks forward to welcoming the athletes and their families in support of the Games’ mission to transform lives through competition, friendship, community service and social and cultural engagement.”

The first-of-its-kind campus model will allow athletes to live, eat and compete on Pitt’s campus in an Olympic-style atmosphere, removing significant capacity constraints that have been plaguing the Games for the last several years. More than 6,000 athletes, coaches and family members are expected to attend.

“This model offers top-notch facilities and a transformative experience for Jewish teen athletes from all over the world while enabling hundreds more to experience the magic of JCC Maccabi than has been possible in its 40-year history,” said Samantha Cohen, senior vice president and director of JCC Maccabi at JCC Association of North America.

Featured sports and event venues will be announced in coming weeks. In addition to a full slate of athletic competitions across team and individual sports, athletes will engage in volunteer and community support experiences through JCC Cares, the Games’ service arm that brings to life its value of tikkun olam — repairing the world.

“Our region is ready to provide an unforgettable experience for all participants and visitors, with our rich history and welcoming and collaborative spirit,” Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said. “We look forward to welcoming them and witnessing how these teens will leave a lasting imprint on our community.”

“As one of the nation’s premier sports cities, we relish the opportunity bring young athletes to our city and are particularly enthused by Maccabi’s commitment to give back as part of the program,” Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey said.

The Games are a partnership by the JCC Association of North America, Maccabi World Union, Maccabi Canada and Maccabi USA. The Office of Business, Hospitality and Auxiliary Services will oversee planning and execution for Pitt.

Read more coverage from TribLive, Pittsburgh Business Times and the Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle.