Myer McKee traveled to Israel this summer with a Cincy Journeys grant, and he came home with a bronze medal. Myer captained the USA U-17 Futsal team at the Maccabiah Games, playing alongside Jewish athletes from around the world.
Getting there took months of work. Drills and conditioning, the same routine over and over, until the moves became second nature. The payoff was a spot on Team USA and a place on the medal stand.
"Representing Team USA and competing in Israel alongside Jewish athletes from around the world was an unforgettable experience," Myer said. "A huge thank you to Cincy Journeys for helping sponsor my journey and making this possible."
That is the whole idea behind Cincy Journeys, funded by the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati and administered by the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati. It helps a young person chase a dream all the way to Israel and come home changed by it. For Myer, the trip meant a spot on Team USA, a bronze medal, and a week competing beside Jewish athletes he might never have met otherwise.
The Maccabiah Games bring together Jewish athletes from dozens of countries to compete and connect in Israel. For a young player from Cincinnati, the tournament was a chance to represent both his country and his community on an international stage.
Mazel tov, Myer. We are proud of you!