GB managers look for new talent

MACCABI GB are looking to unearth some new sporting gems after confirming trial dates for participants looking to represent Team GB at next summer’s Maccabiah Games in Israel.

Adam Lustigman, the joint-manager of the Masters Futsal squad, is looking to build on the success of the 2011 squad that won silver in Vienna ahead of Sunday’s trial in north London.

“Our aim for Israel 2013 is to continue with the same team spirit, dedication and enthusiasm both pretournament and at the Games,” said Lustigman. “It’s a long but worthwhile journey and the earlier we start the better prepared we will be.”

The Under 16 football squad management team of Gavin Alexander, Darren Yarlett and Jonny Meltzer believe that competition for places will be strong.

Yarlett said: “We’ve been up and down the country to watch a number of games and have seen some good young talent which excites us.

“We are surprised we have not had many more applicants from other parts of the London or Essex.

“I have been involved in Jewish football for a long time and cannot believe there aren’t at least four or five players out there from these areas.

“The opportunity to represent Great Britain in a global competition of this magnitude is going to be a thrill and experience for every member of the squad.”

The Under 16 trial take place in north London on June 3 and 24, and in Manchester on June 10.

Fresh from leading the Under 18’s to gold at the at the European Maccabi Games in Vienna, Joel Nathan and Scott Shulton are targeting more success in Israel. Josh Gordon will join them in the dugout.

Nathan said: “Having been involved in the last Maccabiah Games as coach to the under-16’s, and manager of the victorious under-16 squad at the EMG in Vienna last year, I feel extremely honoured that I have now been asked to carry on and finish the project that started in 2010. We want to bring home another gold medal at the 2013 Maccabiah.

“Scott and Josh bring with them a professional attitude that the will be instilled into the squad from day one of the trial process. I am sure they will only drive them all on to be the best Under 18 squad GB has ever produced.”

The first southern trial will be held in north London on June 3. Northern trials take place on June 10.

The junior cricket trial will be held on April 30, while the senior version takes place on May 1.

For more details or to apply, go to www.maccabigb.org.