Yavneh Academy students in grades 3-5 participated in the 2025 Maccabiah where countries from all over the world were represented. The day began with a lot of energy and excitement as Rabbi Knapp lit the traditional Lag B’Omer bonfire at the opening ceremonies. After opening ceremonies, athletes were in for a packed day of athletics, creativity and chessed. They shuttled to Petruska Park to compete for their country in soccer, basketball and track. They decorated their “locker room” door with their country colors and fun facts about their country. They created music videos that put their country’s culture on display! Finally, the athletes took the time to help those in need in the community by packing dental kits and making paper flower bouquets that were donated to the Jewish Family & Children Services of Northern New Jersey. A special thank you to past and present Yavneh dentist parents who donated supplies for this project. The day finished off with closing ceremonies where athletes watched each country’s music video and medal winners were announced. Congratulations to the medal winners who will forever have their names on the Lag B’Omer Maccabiah Banners: Gold-Mexico, Silver-Sweden, Bronze-Greece!