New Film 'Israel Swings for Gold' Showcases Team Israel Baseball

In a heartwarming new film, Team Israel baseball's journey to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to the pandemic) is brought to life. "Israel Swings for Gold" captures the team's experiences through the lens of six camcorders handed out by Jeremy Newberger, CEO of Ironbound Films, to the players.

"I had no idea if we got enough footage or even if the cards were received," said Nate Fish, a key figure in Israel baseball who has served as the Olympic team’s third-base coach, a member of Team Israel for three World Baseball Classics, and now CEO of Israel Baseball Americas. Eighteen months later, he was delighted to attend the film’s premiere in Atlanta.

The documentary, co-directed and produced by Daniel A. Miller, Jeremy Newberger, and Seth Kramer, provides a unique glimpse into the team's Olympic journey. Miller fondly recalls trusting Fish to capture the essence of their adventure under the unique conditions imposed by the pandemic.

"It was COVID at the time, and the Olympic Village was secure with no media allowed. We knew Nate was media savvy and could get exactly the right footage from the team," Miller explained. "They captured everything!"

The 77-minute film, which premiered at the Carole Zabar Center for Film at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, offers an intimate look at the team's experiences. From their flight to Japan alongside rival teams USA and the Dominican Republic, to the camaraderie in the Olympic Village, viewers see the athletes sharing haircuts, meals, and the excitement of the Opening Ceremonies.

One particularly entertaining scene shows the players testing the limits of the Japanese cardboard beds. The film also details each game, highlighting thrilling victories and heartbreaking losses. Despite the challenges, the team strives to maintain a sense of normalcy, though their journey as Israeli athletes is anything but ordinary.

A significant moment in the film is the display of the Israeli flag in the Olympic Village, marking the first time since the 1976 Munich Olympics. The 2020 Olympics also paid tribute to the murdered Israeli athletes of 1976 during the Opening Ceremony, adding emotional depth to the team's experience.

Viewers witness the stringent security measures the players faced in Japan, including tracking devices, facial recognition, and regular searches. The film also reveals the less welcoming aspects of their journey, such as being rebuffed by athletes from other countries and encountering Palestinian flags and chants of "Free, Free Palestine."

"Israel Swings for Gold" is more than just a sports documentary; it's a celebration of Israeli perseverance and pride. The film not only showcases the challenges and triumphs of Team Israel but also highlights the broader significance of their participation on the global stage.

Experience the passion and dedication of Team Israel, and be inspired by their story. Share this remarkable journey with others and subscribe to our newsletter for more uplifting stories about Israel and its incredible people.