IEHL, Israel's pro hockey league, returns to UBS Arena to renew rivalry, bring together New York's Jewish community | amNewYork

"On most of the teams he played on growing up, Jonny Lazarus found himself the only Jewish player in the locker room. Lazarus has always had a deep connection to hockey and Judaism. When he got an opportunity to get involved with the Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL) Israel's premier professional hockey league he saw an opportunity to make Jewish players feel more represented in the game."

"Our players don't have the name recognition of an NHL player, so to actually have fans meet them, take pictures with them, shake hands, get a few words in together, I think that's critical to grow our brand, our league, and the sport in Israel itself, or the fans here in New York, Marc Brunengraber, the IEHL's commissioner, said."

"The event will bring together fans to support Israel and the local Jewish community through an authentic Israeli ice hockey experience featuring several Israeli singers as entertainment, meet-and-greet experiences, merchandise, and giveaways."

Jonny Lazarus often was the only Jewish player on his youth teams and maintains a strong connection to both hockey and Judaism. He joined the Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL) to help Jewish players feel more represented in the sport. The IEHL USA Challenge Cup returns to UBS Arena featuring HC Tel Aviv versus the Jerusalem Capitals, showcasing one of Israel's top hockey rivalries. The event includes Israeli singers, meet-and-greets, merchandise, and giveaways to engage fans and the Jewish community. IEHL leadership emphasizes fan access to players as essential to growing the league and the sport in Israel.

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