NFL legends visit Israel in solidarity amid ongoing challenges

NFL legends Nick Lowery and Tony Richardson visited Israel last week on a solidarity mission, meeting with survivors of the October 7 Hamas attack, the families of hostages held in Gaza, and IDF soldiers. Their visit, made possible by Athletes for Israel and Project Max, aimed to combat antisemitism and promote a positive narrative about Israel through sports.

The former football stars visited key sites, including the Nova Festival memorial, kibbutzim affected by Hamas’s massacre, and the Druze village of Majdal Shams, where 12 children were killed in a Hezbollah attack while playing soccer.

During their visit, Lowery and Richardson met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, expressing their unwavering support for Israel and its people.

“We’re here to say we love and support you no matter what,” Lowery told President Herzog after meeting hostage families, including the relatives of Na’ama Levy, who remains in Hamas captivity.

Richardson echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of being a voice for those who do not have one.

The visit to Majdal Shams was particularly emotional. Eric Rubin, CEO of Project Max, described how their mission was inspired by a prior visit with NBA champion Josh Powell, where they met survivors recovering in Ichilov Hospital.

“We heard the horror stories, but also saw the resilience of the children and their families. I committed to them that I would do what I could to make sure the world didn’t forget what happened,” Rubin said.

Bringing Lowery and Richardson to Majdal Shams was part of fulfilling that promise.

“At the same time, it was important to meet with the families, hear the dreams of the children who were brutally murdered, and bring hope, love, and support to our beautiful Druze cousins,” he added.

The NFL greats also toured Jerusalem, visiting the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, immersing themselves in the spiritual and historical heart of Israel.

After the trip, Rubin shared how deeply moved Lowery and Richardson were:

“Nick and Tony both told me this was the most meaningful trip of their lives. They feel a strong bond to the people of Israel. They are amazed by the bravery, the heroes, and most importantly, Israeli resilience. They now know why we can’t be defeated.”

Amid global challenges, Israel’s spirit remains unbreakable. Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel’s latest developments.