See photos from the inaugural JCC Maccabi Campus Games at Pitt

The University of Pittsburgh made history this August as the first college campus to host the JCC Maccabi Games, the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event.

Nearly 2,000 Jewish teen athletes from six countries stayed and competed at Pitt as part of the newly introduced JCC Maccabi Campus Games Aug. 3-8. Participants aged 13-17 took part in Olympic-style competitions while also engaging in community service, social activities and Jewish educational programming all centered on Pitt’s campus.

The University’s Pittsburgh campus, including its residence halls, dining facilities and athletic venues, served as the hub for the six-day event. Many athletes lived in on-campus housing, ate on campus and explored the city through coordinated events.

“It was an honor for the University of Pittsburgh to welcome the JCC Maccabi Games to our campus, and to our city, for the first time in the event’s history,” said Kevin Washo, senior vice chancellor for external relations. “This was a unique chance to showcase world-class facilities and campus, our vibrant community, and Pittsburgh’s welcoming spirit to athletes, families, and visitors from around the world.”

Founded in 1982, the JCC Maccabi Games aim to promote health, fitness, cultural pride and Jewish values through sport and community engagement. Each year, the Games offer thousands of teens the chance to form lasting friendships and connections — both on and off the field.

Organized in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh, Pitt and UPMC, this year’s Games were fully hosted on a university campus for the first time in the event’s 40-year history. Volunteers from the across the University and Pittsburgh community helped coordinate logistics and support for visiting delegations.

In addition to competition, athletes participated in Jewish education and community service programs in partnership with campus faith organizations, giving participants a full view of college life — and a glimpse of what’s possible beyond high school.

“The power of this moment isn’t just what we have built; it is what we have believed,” said Jason Kunzman, president and CEO of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. “We have said loudly and clearly: We believe in our youth. We believe in Jewish connection. We believe in experiences that last a lifetime.”