A trip to the 'boy aquarium': Discovering Israel's thriving hockey scene

What began as a casual interest in the National Hockey League has led to the discovery of a surprisingly robust hockey scene within Israel. The Jerusalem Post's Shir Perets initially followed the NHL hype but soon found herself engrossed in the sport, prompting an investigation into Israel's own hockey league.

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I was born in Israel but grew up in Canada. When I was about 15, I was recruited to play for Israel’s national team because I have dual citizenship. I’ve played for Israel ever since, from the U18s all the way to the senior national team for more than 20 years.

Perets visited the "boy aquarium," as she playfully termed it, to meet Isaac Levy, captain of the Jerusalem Capitals and a key figure in the Israel Elite Hockey League. Despite initial nerves, she was welcomed by Levy and the league, finding the hockey itself to be "really good."

The league, established about five years ago, has expanded from four to eight teams, divided into northern and southern divisions. Players like Levy, who grew up in Canada and plays for Israel's national team due to dual citizenship, and Maverick Cortes, a defenseman for Hockey Club Tel Aviv who moved from Denver, Colorado, exemplify the league's blend of international talent and connection to Israel. Both players found their way to the league through different paths, combining their love for hockey with their Israeli heritage.

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I grew up in Denver, Colorado. I always heard about Israel growing up, went to Jewish school, had my bar mitzvah here, and loved it. A few years later, I was scrolling through Instagram and found the league. I thought, ‘This is perfect.’ It combines hockey with my connection to Israel.

Levy has further invested in the sport by co-opening the Blue Ice Arena in Ashdod. The league's season structure is described as tournament-like, culminating in a winner who claims a trophy and bragging rights. The Jerusalem Post was invited to witness the opening game, where the Capitals were set to compete.

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The craziest thing is: The hockey is good. Like, it’s really good