Gilad was born on August 24, 2002, in northern Israel, and tragically fell in battle in Gaza on November 9, 2023, during the Iron Swords War.
Gilad was a vibrant and determined child, full of joy, a passionate soccer fan, and an avid amateur player. From a young age, he played on the field in his home community of Kibbutz Ginegar, and was a devoted supporter of Hapoel Haifa.
Thanks to his exceptional initiative and charisma, he established a connection with the team’s spokesperson as a teenager, became their mascot, and shortly after joined their operations team, remaining an integral part of the club until his enlistment in the IDF
For Gilad, a middle child with two older and two younger siblings, who struggled with learning difficulties and dealt with anger and frustration when faced with challenges, soccer was much more than just a game.
Through soccer, Gilad found belonging and pride. The game helped him develop self control, refine perseverance and commitment to others, strengthen his ability to overcome difficulties, and learn to be a part of a team-handling failures and celebrating successes. Soccer provided Gilad with a positive and supportive space where he could grow and thrive.
Out of our pain and love for Gilad, we chose to honor his memory by creating a soccer field in his name.
This Field will be a place where children and youth can connect to the game and its value: equality, friendship, perseverance, and coping with challenges. We believe that soccer is an empowering and growth-oriented activity for every child, especially for those who struggle to find their place or face personal and environment challenges.
Gilad’s success in overcoming his personal struggles through soccer serves as the guiding inspiration for this important project.
Building the field will allow us to provide children and youth with a loving and supportive meeting place-a safe and inclusive space, especially for those facing difficulties. Ultimately, it will be a place to grow stronger, to dream, and to succeed!
We invite you to take part in turning “Gilad’s Field” from a dream into a vibrant and meaningful space where every child can enjoy, grow, and achieve through the game-just as Gilad did.
Thank you for your support and assistance in honoring Gilad in a way that impacts and strengthens the next generation.
