Peace and reconciliation through Rugby in Israel

Coexistence Through Rugby – September 2025 Update

As the Coexistence ATLAS Programme continues to grow in impact and reach, we are actively seeking long-term pledges to secure its future. This initiative thrives on consistency and trust — and sustainable funding is essential to maintain the year-round coaching, joint events, leadership development, and educational workshops that bring Arab and Jewish children together through sport. By making a pledge, you are not only supporting rugby sessions — you are investing in a future built on mutual respect, understanding, and peace. Whether you are an individual, trust, or corporate supporter, your commitment will help ensure that this beacon of hope continues to shine in one of the world’s most divided regions. Make a pledge today.

In a region still impacted by conflict, this initiative has never been more vital. Through the unifying power of rugby, we continue to show that coexistence is possible - that we can live, play, and grow together.

Thanks to the steadfast support of The Atlas Foundation, the programme now engages 160 pupils, both Arab and Jewish, from four schools, with participants drawn from Year 5 and Year 6. Tag Rugby forms the heart of the programme, but it is so much more than sport: pupils share conversations, learn together, and explore topics like gender equality, health, and well-being — all while having fun.

Updates since May:

The school year just started and the programme began last week, this will be the 5th year running. In the same 4 schools as of past two years, 160 pupils. Since June were on school summer holiday. Back now with exciting plans ahead.

Nora, a young Arab PE teacher, successfully completed the national rugby coaching course and this year begins coaching both boys’ and girls’ teams at Al-Ahmadiya School. For the first time, the school will participate in Israel’s national school tag rugby league. Her story is a strong example of women’s empowerment in Arab society, showing how rugby creates leadership opportunities for young women. In addition, We have encouraged Nora to launch a new community initiative with the emphasis of Al-Hiwar School: three enrichment days per year (December, April, July) for students from low-income families. These days will combine workshops on health and hygiene, training sessions with National team players, and shared meals – all free of charge for the disadvantaged.

Nora's Perspective: 

"When I first joined the programme, I didn’t know rugby at all. With the support I received, I’ve discovered a sport that teaches teamwork, respect, and discipline. Coaching both boys and girls in my community shows that rugby is for everyone. What excites me most is starting the new project with Al-Hiwar – giving children from families with financial struggles a day to feel joy, learn, and belong. This is what sport should be about."

Looking ahead: 

Through rugby, we, in the Israel Rugby Union together with ATLAS support, continue to promote shared society, reconciliation, and positive youth development, creating opportunities for diverse communities to come together.

Coexistence Through Rugby – May 2025 Update

As the Coexistence ATLAS Programme continues to grow in impact and reach, we are actively seeking long-term pledges to secure its future. This initiative thrives on consistency and trust — and sustainable funding is essential to maintain the year-round coaching, joint events, leadership development, and educational workshops that bring Arab and Jewish children together through sport. By making a pledge, you are not only supporting rugby sessions — you are investing in a future built on mutual respect, understanding, and peace. Whether you are an individual, trust, or corporate supporter, your commitment will help ensure that this beacon of hope continues to shine in one of the world’s most divided regions. Make a pledge today.

In a region still impacted by conflict, this initiative has never been more vital. Through the unifying power of rugby, we continue to show that coexistence is possible - that we can live, play, and grow together.

Thanks to the steadfast support of The Atlas Foundation, the programme now engages 160 pupils, both Arab and Jewish, from four schools, with participants drawn from Year 5 and Year 6. Tag Rugby forms the heart of the programme, but it is so much more than sport: pupils share conversations, learn together, and explore topics like gender equality, health, and well-being — all while having fun.

This year, we’ve already seen exciting progress:

• Former Israel Women’s 7s Captain delivered an inspiring talk, highlighting the values of sport, the spirit of rugby, and the crucial importance of female leadership in society.

• Two successful joint events took place this month, bringing pupils together to strengthen friendships, foster understanding, and build lasting memories.

We’re also delighted to share that the Year 6 Leadership Team at El-Hiwar School in Haifa is once again up and running, led by the passionate guidance of Coach Nura and Coach Erez. This team — made up of boys and girls with past programme experience — now supports coaches in leading weekly Year 5 sessions and upcoming tournaments, developing confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Looking ahead, excitement is building for our next joint tournament, taking place on grass in just two weeks. Events like these are more than games — they are moments of connection and unity.

The programme continues to grow, with additional updates expected from our partner schools in the coming weeks. All activities are guided by an external consultant specialising in sport-based mediation, ensuring that our work always promotes empathy, respect, and collaboration. Every session is co-led by Arabic-speaking and Hebrew-speaking coaches, modelling true cooperation.

As we move through the year, the journey will culminate in our National Tag Rugby Tournament, a celebration of everything we’ve built together — a powerful reminder that sport can overcome division and create a shared future.

Links:

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