Summer on an Israeli field of dreams: To these kids, baseball is life

Photo: Robert Kerzner

At summer baseball camp in Israel, young players listen to coaches intently. 

As part of our #JNF #SummerLovin series focusing on lesser-known Israeli summer happenings that also happen to be #PoweredByJNF, we bring you the story of a baseball camp where young players dream big.    

By Leslie Katz

Ido Peled wants to play in the Major Leagues one day. So does Uri Federman, Nadav Schwartz, Yair Chen, and virtually every other Israeli boy crowded into the bleachers of a Petah Tikvah baseball field on a sticky late morning in July.

For these 12- to 15-year-olds attending summer baseball training camp in Israel, America's favorite pastime is far more than just a pastime. 

"Baseball," Gal Partouche says simply, "is my life." His baseball buddies would surely echo the sentiment.

Baseball, goats, and glida: #JNF #SummerLovin uncovers hidden treasures

Photo: Robert Kerzner

Been to Israel in the summer? Then you've probably spent a balmy evening walking Jerusalem's Old City, floated in the warm waters of the Dead Sea, and downed a cold beer in a bustling outdoor cafe on Dizengoff Street.

But have you ever enjoyed a nighttime concert at a desert amphitheater? Wound your way through Israel's sun-drenched wineries? Pitched a tent just feet from a gaggle of goats?

You can, and throughout August, we'll tell you how. To celebrate summer in Israel, JNF-style, we'll feature stories of some of the country's best kept summer secrets, all #PoweredByJNF.