ISRAEL TENNIS & EDUCATION CENTERS ITEC operates at the convergence of tennis, education, and social-impact programming in Israel. We aim to instill a “Champion for Life” drive in the hearts and minds of every child, by making tennis – and the values it teaches – accessible to all. We believe sport is a powerful vehicle for personal growth, equipping children with the physical, emotional, mental, and social resilience needed to succeed in life.
Building Mental Resilience Through Sports The greatest challenge facing Israeli children today is the growing mental health crisis. After years of war resulting in displacement and uncertainty, an entire generation is carrying the weight of chronic stress and trauma. ITEC plans to address children’s mental health at scale through a comprehensive, preventative model that reaches children where they already are—in their schools and communities. Through the power of sports, we can create safe, structured environments where children develop the physical, emotional, mental, and social resilience skills needed to thrive. Our model combines partnerships with municipalities, direct implementation in schools, and specialized coach training to create sustainable systems of support. Because it is integrated into the school day, it reaches thousands of children before challenges become crises while strengthening emotional regulation, confidence, belonging, and healthy coping skills.
Target Population
Outcomes
Evaluation
Elementary school students in grades 3–6, regardless of financial background, with a focus on children experiencing chronic stress, trauma, or adversity.
Strengthening personal, social, and classroom resilience while improving school climate, supporting positive behavior, and fostering a stronger sense of belonging.
The Szold Institute will conduct a evaluation during the program's pilot to assess implementation, effectiveness, and impact on participating children.