Yellow Warriors
Two extraordinary groups set out for the French Alps: male and female combat soldiers, all fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv and members of the legendary group who regularly occupy the “Section 11” stands in the stadium, who came together for a unique winter journey. The trip was designed to reconnect and promote emotional healing through what they called: Snow Therapy.
How “Snow Therapy” Was Born
The idea came from Tal Hollander, a Maccabi Tel Aviv fan who lost his brother in war. From this heartbreak, the initiative was born: to turn the love for the team into a community of recovery and support. Thus, Snow Therapy grew out of Section 11 and became a rare collaboration between fans, the Brothers to the Symbol association, Maccabi Fanatics, the Gate fan group, and the Maccabi Tel Aviv Foundation, all of whom were actively involved in planning, funding, and equipping every participant.
The days were spent skiing through snowy landscapes, while the evenings were dedicated to group discussions led by psychologists and emotional counselors. For the first time, participants opened up about wounds too painful to discuss in everyday life. The snow broke down barriers, conversations became honest, and the group became a family. Both physical and emotional injuries were given names, acknowledgment, and a safe space to rest.
Voices From the Field: “The Snow Made Us a Family”
Almog, one of the mission leaders, shared: “The idea started in the stands, but what happened in the Alps surpassed all imagination. Maccabi fans turned out to be a unifying and embracing force.”
Ben Orenstein, a soldier from the 932nd Battalion, recalled his most meaningful moment: “Skiing with the flag of my fallen comrade, Roi Barakat z”l, who died in battle in Nahal Oz — I felt like he was there with me. With us.”
Eyal Zano, a Golani fighter, shared a pivotal experience: “I fell on one of the tough slopes. Everyone came back with me — this time, I made it. That day, I dedicated my ski run to a friend who died beside me. I felt like he was skiing with me.”
What We Experienced There – We’ll Take With Us for Life
The participants emphasized that the partnership with Maccabi Tel Aviv wasn’t just symbolic — it was part of the healing. “The presence of the fans was an anchor,” said Eyal, echoing the words of Tal Hollander: “What we experienced up on that mountain — we’ll carry with us through life: the courage, the laughter, the embrace. And let’s not forget the first rule in our crew — smiles are mandatory!”
