NFL Hall of Famers in Israel Applaud Israelis for Their Sense of Family, Love of Country and "Never Giving Up"

Jacob Magid : Jun 20, 2017
Times of Israel

Patriots' owner Robert Kraft said the things he admires about Israel are their "great hope, great preparation, never giving up, and winning—and you know we like that one."

(Israel)—[Times of Israel] A number of National Football League Hall of Famers on a visit to Israel on Sunday hailed the sense of "family" shared by Israelis and their love of country. (Photo: Joe Montana waves/Jacob Magid/Times of Israel)

Eighteen NFL "Gold Jackets" were in Israel for the week-long trip hosted by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, as part of an effort to promote the sport in a country that primarily sees "football" as soccer. Still, over the past two decades, "American football" has found its niche in Israel, and currently boasts over 2,000 active players in various leagues.

On Sunday evening, over 1,000 fans flocked to Kraft Family Stadium in Jerusalem for a ceremony honoring the Patriots owner, followed by a meet-and-greet with the all-time greats. The star-studded lineup included Roger Staubach, Jim Brown, Eric Dickerson, and "Mean" Joe Greene.

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