"Back in the Game" Through Basketball: Special Basketball Teams for IDF Veterans Coping with PTSD
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: 10 hours ago
The Israel Basketball Association, the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization (ZDVO), and the Center for Jewish Impact recently held a special launch event marking the establishment of dedicated basketball teams for IDF veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The initiative was created in response to a growing need expressed by members of the ZDVO, who emphasized that basketball plays a meaningful role in their rehabilitation process and helps them cope with the emotional and psychological challenges they carry. The project is led by former Israeli National Team player, Raviv Limonad.
As part of the initiative, four teams have been established across Israel — in Ashdod, Netanya, the Upper Galilee, and Gush Etzion. The teams train on a weekly basis under the guidance of certified coaches from the Israel Basketball Association, alongside psychologists and rehabilitation professionals who provide continuous support throughout the process.
The official launch event featured a tournament between the four teams, with the Samaria team taking first place following a dramatic final game.
Amos Frishman, Chairman of the Israel Basketball Association: “Establishing basketball teams for soldiers coping with post-traumatic stress disorder is both a deeply meaningful and important initiative for me personally and for the Israel Basketball Association. After these brave men and women sacrificed so much for the State of Israel on the battlefield, it is now our responsibility to stand beside them and support their rehabilitation journey. Seeing the players smiling, competing, and rediscovering their strength through sport makes every effort worthwhile. I would like to thank the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization and the Center for Jewish Impact for their partnership and dedication to this important initiative.
Sonia Gomes de Mesquita, CEO of the Center for Jewish Impact: “The ability of individuals and communities to heal is rooted in connection, belonging, and shared purpose. This collaboration demonstrates how the partnership between civil society, sport, and community can become a powerful platform for recovery and resilience. We are especially grateful to Richard Deitz, whose vision, leadership, and commitment helped bring this important initiative to life. As part of our ‘Embrace Campaign,’ we see it as a privilege to support programs that help wounded veterans rebuild routine, confidence, and a renewed sense of meaning.”
Yossi Matityahu, CEO of the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization: “Recovery and rehabilitation often begin in the small moments — returning to practice, learning to trust those around you again, and realizing that you are not alone. The ‘Back in the Game’ groups, together with additional sports initiatives, provide our heroes with a source of strength, connection, and hope. The Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization supports thousands of wounded IDF soldiers and members of Israel’s security forces — physically and emotionally — across the country. We view sport as a powerful rehabilitative tool. Watching participants step onto the court with energy, determination, and smiles on their faces is a powerful reminder of sport’s extraordinary ability to heal. Our partnership with the Israel Basketball Association, the Association’s Friendship Fund, and the Center for Jewish Impact enables us to expand these activities and reach even more wounded veterans who sacrificed so much for all of us.”