Jerusalem Capitals & HC Tel Aviv Amped To Replicate UBS Arena Rematch
For a second straight season, IEHL rivals go head-to-head in Elmont.
While nations fight for gold at the Olympics, the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv reignite their rivalry as the Israeli Elite Hockey League returns to UBS Arena on Sunday.
Last season, over 8,000 fans attended an action-packed affair in Elmont, with Jerusalem coming away with a 7-6 overtime victory.
I, alongside my partner David Kolb, will be back on the broadcast with NESN’s Billy Jaffe doing color commentary. On the call is IEHL Executive Producer and Director of Broadcasting Ben Baruch.
“The players have dreamed about playing competitive hockey on the biggest stage,” Baruch told The Elmonters. “Last year, they put on a show in front of 8,500 fans. A storybook game that ended 7-6 in overtime. The fans strengthen their love for Israel and become inspired watching Israeli athletes compete in live sporting events.
“This league also made my dreams come true. I watched Howie Rose and now Brenden Burke call New York Islanders games, and I dreamed about one day getting their job. Even for one day in my life, I got to say that the legendary Kenny Albert was my color announcer while I did play-by-play at UBS Arena.”
Games like this grow the game.
“It’s so important to grow hockey around the world. If hockey can make it in the southern climates of the United States, it can work anywhere,” Baruch added. “This league is incredible at blending American and European hockey talent and experience with the Israeli can-do attitude. The momentum this league has driven over the past five years is incredible. The sky is truly the limit.”
Here are the rosters for the two teams:
“Reflecting on last year’s inaugural Challenge Cup, I am still moved by the sight of over 8,000 fans filling UBS Arena to celebrate Israeli and Jewish culture and friendship with the United States through the greatest sport in the world,” Marc Brunengraber, IEHL co-commisioner told The Elmonters. “It was a historic moment where the energy of the crowd and the intensity of that overtime thriller proved that our mission is resonating. To me, that night was a dream realized—a powerful testament to the unifying power of sports and a definitive stand against those who seek to demonize or marginalize Israel.
“As we return to UBS Arena this February 22nd, I am looking forward to an electric atmosphere where the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv can showcase the Israel Elite Hockey League and reignite their rivalry. My hope for this year’s game is that it continues to normalize and celebrate the spirit of Israel through world-class hockey, fostering a deeper connection between our worldwide Jewish community and our friends who stand with us, all while providing the fans with an exciting contest that celebrates the continued growth of Israeli hockey through world class hockey.”
Last year’s event was incredibly special for Isaac Levy, the captain of the Jerusalem Capitals.
“Our weekend at UBS Arena was unforgettable. Playing Jerusalem vs. Tel Aviv was already special, but captaining Jerusalem made it even more meaningful for me,” Levy told The Elmonters. “The whole trip was super fun and exciting — from sharing a big Shabbat dinner with the Great Neck community to meeting kids from the minor hockey system who love the game as much as we do. One of the most inspiring moments was meeting and skating with Ivan Gluck, a 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, which gave the experience real depth and perspective. The game itself was incredibly tight, and pulling off the win in overtime for Jerusalem had the crowd on their feet — the energy in the arena was electric.
“I’m already super excited to do it all over again. The organization and the growth of the IEHL were on point and could not have dreamed of it being better.”
Puck drop is Sunday at 5 PM ET, with the pregame show beginning at 4 PM ET.
Click HERE to get your tickets.
