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
Elementary school students in grades 3–6, regardless of financial background, with a focus on children experiencing chronic stress, trauma, or adversity.
Outcomes
Strengthening personal, social, and classroom resilience while improving school climate, supporting positive behavior, and fostering a stronger sense of belonging.
Evaluation
The Szold Institute will conduct a evaluation during the program's pilot to assess implementation, effectiveness, and impact on participating children.
Partner Organizations
Israel Tennis & Education Center (ITEC) coaches will participate in certification programs from Beit Issie Shapiro and Israel Trauma Coalition, equipping them to become certified therapeutic sports practitioners and ensuring the program’s delivery is led by highly trained, trauma-informed professionals.
Following training, the Value Sports Association will work in partnership with ITEC staff to develop the program’s educational curriculum and training materials, ensuring coaches have the tools, knowledge, and resources to deliver consistent, high-quality therapeutic sports programming across ITEC centers.
Beit Issie Shapiro
A pioneering leader and innovator in the field of disabilities, advancing equal opportunity, full community inclusion, and an improved quality of life for people with disabilities.
Training Structure
The training scope includes 45 hours of theoretical-applied learning, 30 academic hours of guided practicum (on-the-job training), and 20 hours of experiential learning.
Israel Trauma Coalition
A national leader in trauma response offering leadership and resources before, during, and after a crisis. The cornerstone in the national emergency preparedness.
Training Structure
The training scope includes 5 sessions of 3 hours each, a total of 15 hours. Each session will include a teaching/practical workshop and a peer discussion section.
Value Sports Association
Israeli non-profit organization dedicated to leveraging sports as a tool to promote social, educational, and ethical values such as leadership, discipline, and respect.