There are moments like these, when national pride floods and unites us all. And sometimes such a moment emerges into our lives without prior preparation, and as the size of the surprise - so does the intensity of excitement and pride.
The moment we were all informed this week about the amazing achievement of the Israeli youth football team was undoubtedly one of those classes of refined pride.
Thanks to their team spirit, thanks to the determination, and of course thanks to the talent that was someone who knew how to locate, nurture and polish, from the family to the association, associations and clubs.
For as long as I can remember, the love of football has been a significant part of my world.
I grew up in a home of football lovers, and my sons also live football and are accompanied by great interest and devotion to many games, in Israel and around the world.
But this time the heart beats vigorously not because of the universal dimension of this marvelous sport, which manages to excite us - its lovers - every time anew, but because today we will be there with them - in our overflowing heart.
This team is one of the special ones we got to see.
I look with appreciation and sympathy at the amazing process these boys went through - from the daily training in the country to the summit of the important tournament in Europe.
I see how coach Ofir Haim - who is an amazing combination of soul, uncompromising professionalism, endless determination and inspiring sensitivity - talks about his players, and how much faith he instills in them - and believes in their individual and team ability to succeed and win.
I long for more and more of these values in all areas of our lives here.
It was the spirit of their team - so Israeli - that brought the great achievement that managed to make an entire country happy, and I wish it would continue to bring us the trophy.
We all hold fingers for the boys who will fight on the lawn, with the flag, the emblem and the people of Israel giving them a windfall.
Whatever the final outcome, one thing is clear to us: for us, they are the big winners anyway.
Thanks to the commitment, thanks to the way, thanks to the impressive process, thanks to the Israeliness.
Champions like you - good luck!
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