Arab Israel Soccer/Football team represents Israel in Europe

WINNING COEXISTENCE AND MUTUAL RESPECT:
THE SAKHNIN SANE MODEL OF “CHAMPIONS OF PEACE”


Sakhnin – One of the leading Arab cities in Israel that has 22,000 inhabitants and wields a great influence on Arab Israeli society. Arab citizens represent approximately 16% of the country’s population.

The City's official football team – Bnei Sakhnin – was created in 1992 and quickly made its way up league competition until reaching the Premier League for the current 2003-2004 season. The electrified the public by winning the Israel Cup during their FIRST year of play in this top league. They will now represent Israel in UEFA international competition in Europe.

The team has been embraced, supported and cheered by Israeli Arabs and Jews alike, not only because they excellent represent winning capabilities and genuine good sportsmanship, but also due to their clear endorsement of vital social messages: co-existence, tolerance, mutual respect between Jews and Arabs in a troubled region.

Bnei Sakhnin not only talks the talk but walks the walk: The team itself is comprised of 10 Arab players, 8 Jewish players and a healthy mix of 5 foreign players (Brazil, Hungary, Cameroun). No player is cheered for his ethnicity on the playing field; he is cheered for his command of the game.

The Sakhnin team takes to the field to win the game. But win or lose, all of Israel wins because every single game emphasizes the crucial value of coexistence.

The team’s success has commanded the attention and pride of all Israelis, while earning enduring respect from all parts of Israeli society – Jewish and Arab – politicians and businesspeople – so many of whom have rallied around to support and promote the team.