The JCC Maccabi Steering Committee invites community members to experience the start of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games at its Opening Ceremony on Monday, Aug. 3.

This evening will bring athletes, families and the community together to celebrate the spirit of the Games.

“The Opening Ceremony will be a memorable event for athletes, coaches, host families, spectators and community members alike,” said Samantha Hammontree, Opening Ceremony committee chair. “We are creating a world-class production designed to unite and energize everyone in attendance while showcasing the spirit and significance of the Games.”

Registration is available at jccmaccabikc.org. All attendees must register by July 27 to attend the Opening Ceremony. Community members who are not already registered as volunteers or host families and wish to attend only the ceremony can register as spectators. Additional event and location details will be provided upon registration.

The Opening Ceremony will feature a variety of unique moments that celebrate the spirit and tradition of the JCC Maccabi Games. Sports broadcaster Jake Eisenberg will serve as emcee, helping guide attendees through the evening.

The evening will begin with the Parade of Athletes. This Olympic-style presentation will focus the spotlight on athletes from more than 30 delegations from around the world.

Representing the international spirit of the Games, three national anthems will be performed during the ceremony with an honor guard from Boy Scout Troop 61 presenting the colors. “The Star-Spangled Banner,” will be performed by Alisa Meireis, a member of Congregation Beth Shalom. Canada’s national anthem, “O Canada,” will be performed by Gabrielle Dubin, a member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. Israel’s national anthem, “Hatikvah,” will be performed by Logan McNay, a member of Congregation Beth Shalom.

Ruby Sokol has been selected to lead the torch relay on behalf of the Kansas City delegation, carrying the Torch of Light as a symbol of Jewish pride, leadership and unity. A senior at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, Sokol serves as Student Council president, has danced at Encore at The J for 15 years and is the 2026–27 regional president of B’nai B’rith Girls.

The torch relay ceremony will symbolize the passing of the JCC Maccabi legacy from one generation to the next. Kansas City Maccabi alumni who previously represented the community at the Games will carry the ceremonial torch alongside their children and family members who are participating in the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games.

The Berger, Buchbinder, Schlozman and Schroering families will take part in the torch relay ceremony.

“Planning the lighting of the torch for the Kansas City Maccabi Games was important to the committee,” said Tammy Ruder, JCC Maccabi Opening Ceremony producer. “The torch represents the enduring legacy of the Jewish people and the passing of traditions from one generation to the next. The committee felt the best way to represent this concept was to recognize past Kansas City Maccabi athletes whose children are now competing. This powerful moment kicks off the JCC Maccabi Games.”

Closing out the celebration, a special guest will share reflections on their connection to Israel, their Jewish heritage and the importance of community, as well as offer encouragement to athletes as they compete in the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games.

With registration now open, community members are invited to be part of a memorable evening that will showcase Kansas City’s role as host to one of the largest Jewish youth sporting events in the world. Questions can be directed to Tammy Ruder, JCC Maccabi Opening Ceremony producer, at  or (913) 981-8878.