Maccabi SA unfolds its exciting new image

JACK MILNER
      

As part of its strategic evolution, Maccabi SA conducted a thorough brand and communications analysis during the course of 2015.

“The two key areas identified were the need for a refreshed image to accompany our new strategic direction, as well as improved communications platforms to better connect with our audience. In simple terms, we needed a bit of a makeover,” said Maccabi in a media release.

The previous scroll logo has proudly represented Maccabi SA’s heritage and achievements for 20 years, however the timing was right for an update. The new modern logo, developed by Johannesburg creative director Dave Doubell, consists of a Magen David enclosing stylised Hebrew text that reads, from right to left, “Maccabi”.

“It presents a strong connection to our roots and our global family as the Magen David and Hebrew font is inspired by the logo of our governing body, Maccabi World Union (MWU).”

The logo of Maccabi World Union has also been incorporated by many federations for their own emblems, and by Maccabi SA using it as well it creates a link between Maccabi SA and its worldwide counterparts.

“The two shades of blue in our logo are a connection to both MWU and Israel, while the green and gold sporting colours of South Africa represent our enduring national pride. Overall, we think the new Maccabi SA logo is a fitting illustration of our revitalised identity and corporate vision. We hope that the emblem is one which the Jewish sporting community can relate to and be proud to be associated with.”

The brand makeover includes the launch of an informative and user-friendly website – www.maccabi.co.za – which now serves as its core communications tool. The site is packed with a variety of content including the latest Maccabi and community sporting news and nachas, information of upcoming events and the 2017 Maccabiah, photo galleries and 80 years of Team Maccabi SA’s achievements since 1935.

“We look forward to engaging and connecting with the community via this website as well as through our growing social media channels on Facebook (Maccabi South Africa) and Twitter (@MaccabiSA).

“We are proud and excited to embark on this new era for Maccabi SA, dressed for success in our new brand identity and with a fantastic new online home.”

Maccabi SA feels it is appropriate that it launches during Chanukah, which celebrates the re-dedication of the Temple following victory over the Seleucids by Judah Maccabee, after whom the movement is named.

Maccabi SA has a variety of exciting projects planned for 2016, and of course is eagerly looking forward to the 2017 Maccabiah in Israel, the organisation promises.

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New kid golf croquet looks a real hit

Long before soccer, cricket, rugby and basketball ruled the sports earth, there was croquet. Forms of the game go back more than 1 000 years but a form of the game as we know it was being played in England in the early 1600s.

The oldest document to bear the word croquet with a description of the modern game, is the set of rules registered by Isaac Spratt in November 1856 with the Stationers’ Company in London. This record is now in the Public Record Office.

In 1868 the first croquet all-comers’ meeting was held at Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire and in the same year the All England Croquet Club was formed at Wimbledon, London.

The All England Club still exists but not much croquet gets played at Wimbledon these days!

However, anyone who has played it, will vouch that it can be a lot of fun and there is an opportunity for Johannesburgers who are willing to try it out.

The Golden Mallet Club plays at Hilson Bowling Club (entrance between High School and Dolls House) on Louis Botha Avenue from 09:00 on Tuesdays and Fridays.

A game lasts about 45 minutes and players of all ages are welcome. Mallets can be loaned and coaching is provided.

Ruben Ezekowitz is the contact at the club and can be reached on 083-284-1828.