Vaughan Gears Up
to Host 2026
JCC Maccabi
Games® & Access

In summer 2026, Vaughan will welcome more than 20,000 athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, and spectators from across North America for the JCC Maccabi Games® & Access, the largest Jewish youth sporting event in the world.

For the first time in forty years, the Games are returning to the Greater Toronto Area, proudly hosted by the Schwartz/Reisman Centre and Prosserman JCC. More than 2,000 teen athletes from 75 communities across North America, South America, Europe, and Israel will compete in Olympic-style events across Vaughan’s premier athletic facilities, representing their home communities through sport, service, and shared values.

“The City of Vaughan is home to one of the largest Jewish communities outside of Israel, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive, tolerant and welcoming city for all,” said Gila Martow, Ward 5 Councillor for the City of Vaughan.
“Hosting the JCC Maccabi Games® is a reflection of that spirit, it brings people together through sport, teamwork and community pride.”

First launched in 1982, the JCC Maccabi Games® began with just 300 participants. Since then, the event has grown exponentially, with thousands of teens taking part every year. Co-sponsored by the JCC Association of North America,
Maccabi World Union, Maccabi Canada and Maccabi USA, the Games have become a cornerstone youth event that combines athletic excellence with cultural connection and leadership development.

Athletes will have the opportunity to compete in a range of sports including basketball, soccer, baseball, tennis,
swimming, and more. But the Games are about more than just medals; they feature an inspiring Opening Ceremony, meaningful JCC Cares community service projects, and vibrant social programming that celebrates Jewish pride, teamwork, diversity, and inclusion.

Partnering with the Miles Nadal JCC, organizers are also proud to welcome JCC Maccabi Access as part of the 2026 Games. JCC Maccabi Access is a meaningful and inclusive experience designed for athletes aged 13 to 23 with
intellectual and developmental disabilities. With one-to-one support, Access athletes participate in both unified and
specialized programming, joining thousands of peers in celebrating sports, friendship, and community. Over the past 40 years, more than 130,000 teens have taken part in the JCC Maccabi Games®, gaining not only athletic experience but also lasting friendships and a sense of global community. For many participants, the event serves as a formative experience that goes far beyond competition.

As preparations begin for 2026, excitement is building across the city. Local volunteers, sports organizations and
community groups are expected to play a key role in bringing the event to life. Community members interested in learning more about athlete tryouts, volunteering, or hosting visiting teens can visit torontojccmaccabi.com for updates and
opportunities to get involved.

“There’s a tremendous sense of excitement as we prepare to bring the JCC Maccabi Games® & Access to Vaughan in
2026,” said David Brinder, Games Director. “The City of Vaughan has been a true partner in helping us realize our vision, and together we’re preparing to welcome the world to a celebration of community, resilience, and joy.”

For Vaughan, hosting the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access represents an opportunity to showcase the city’s facilities, community spirit and commitment to youth development. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing and most diverse cities, Vaughan is ready to welcome the world, and to make the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access an unforgettable celebration of sport and unity.