As excitement builds for the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games in Kansas City, The J will host Junior Maccabi Sports Day on Sunday, May 31, from 1-3:30 p.m. at the Fitness Center at The J.
The free community event is open to all Jewish children entering 5th-through-7th grade in fall 2026, with registration required in advance at thejkc.org/juniormaccabi.
“It is a great way to meet other Jewish kids who also enjoy playing sports,” said Bob Hennecke, games director of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games. “Participants can expect a fun time playing a variety of sports while experiencing the spirit of the Maccabi Games, as we bring Jewish youth together through sports for competition, social interaction and connection with Jewish heritage.”
Held in partnership with PJ Our Way, BBYO and the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games Kansas City host committee, Junior Maccabi Sports Day will give participants the opportunity to experience the excitement surrounding the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games coming to Kansas City this summer. The afternoon will feature small-sided basketball, soccer, flag football games and pickleball. Additional activities are designed to introduce younger athletes to the Maccabi experience in a fun and welcoming environment.
“With Kansas City hosting the JCC Maccabi Games this summer, we wanted to create an opportunity for younger kids to feel connected to the excitement and energy surrounding the event,” said Stefan McMillan, director of sports and recreation at The J. “Junior Maccabi Sports Day gives incoming 5th-through-7th graders a chance to experience the spirit of Maccabi while introducing them to the friendships, pride and community that make the Games so special.”
Community members can also get involved in the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games through volunteer opportunities throughout the week of the Games. Volunteers ages 18 and older are needed to assist with hospitality, event operations and athlete experiences as Kansas City welcomes Jewish teen athletes from around the world this summer.
The Kansas City host committee is also seeking local families interested in serving as host families for visiting athletes during the week of the Games. Host families provide athletes with a welcoming home environment while experiencing the spirit of Maccabi firsthand and building meaningful connections with Jewish teens from across the country and around the world.
More information about the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games in Kansas City is available at jcckcmaccabi.org. Those interested in volunteering or hosting athletes can email or .
For more information about Junior Maccabi Sports Day, contact McMillan at (816) 981-8870 or .
