This season has been filled with incredible achievements, international competitions, and community milestones at the Israel ParaSport Center. From podium finishes to new partnerships and programs, our athletes continue to inspire.
Table Tennis
Caroline Tabib continues to dazzle the world, taking gold at the ITTF World Para Future & Elite in Spokane, followed by a silver in the Elite Spokane finals, and a bronze in Sao Paulo. Meanwhile, Yehonatan Levi is on the rise, finishing 5th in Spokane and showing strong form in Sao Paulo as he works toward his goal of entering the top 30 in the world by year’s end.
Rising stars Omer Gadot and 15-year-old Tomer Almog are making waves, with Omer winning competitions in Rishon Lezion and Netanya, and Tomer taking 1st place at the Federation Championship. Under the guidance of Coach Idan Levy, who led an international training camp in Slovenia, The Center’s table tennis talent is stronger than ever.
Wheelchair Tennis
Guy Sasson has been unstoppable, reaching the singles semifinals at the US Open, claiming the doubles title with Niels Vink, and advancing to the finals at the French Riviera Open — all while welcoming a new sponsorship with Jerusalem Bank.
Maayan Zikri shone in doubles as well, winning gold at the Austrian Open and taking the title in Taipei alongside partner Abbie Breakwell (GBR). Adam Berdichevsky returned home to train under Coach Ofer Sala, showing impressive form at the Montfermeil ITFFS tournament, while Sergei Lysov made it to the doubles finals at BNP Paribas Yvelines.
Wheelchair Basketball
The Israel National Wheelchair Basketball Team opened the Nations Cup in Cologne, Germany, with a thrilling victory over Germany under new head coach Lior Dror. Unfortunately, at the European Championships, the team faced tough competition, finishing 11th and experiencing relegation to Division B for next year.
The tournament also brought moments of international attention off the court. During the Israeli national anthem, the British team initially turned their backs, a gesture that was later addressed by international Paralympic leadership with formal apologies and commitments to respect all athletes. Despite these challenges, our players and coaches remained focused, demonstrating resilience and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
Shay Barbibai also scored a personal win, signing with Gran Canaria, Spain, one of Europe’s top-ranked teams.
Kayaking
Roman Ternik continues an inspiring journey, competing at the 2025 Para Kayaking World Championships and reaching the B Final. After surviving a war-related injury and leg amputation, Roman is pushing toward the 2028 Paralympics. Mushka Cohen also represented Israel at the championships, showcasing strength and determination in every stroke.
Boccia
Former table tennis player Ariel Veksler has made an impressive transition to boccia, winning his first international match against the world #11 at Olbia 2025.
Nadav Levi and Orit Kelner brought home silver from the Boccia European Championship, proving once again the depth of talent in Israel’s para-athlete community.
Community & Programs
This season wasn’t just about competition, it was about community. We celebrated new partnerships with Hapoel Tel Aviv, welcomed enthusiastic participants back to the Adult Program, and completed major upgrades at the Luski Aquatic Center, including a renovated semi-Olympic pool roof and new solar panels.
We also honored remarkable contributions, from table tennis coach Rina’s certificate of recognition to stories of resilience shared in True Magic, a local school publication featuring Paralympic athletes.
Amid the excitement, we paused to remember Roei Shalev, a Nova survivor who passed away in October, and reflected on the ongoing healing within our community. Athletes also competed in the Sportiada event in Eilat, taking home four medals while bringing joy and inspiration to all who watched.
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