In a landmark moment for Israeli ice hockey, the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv faced off at UBS Arena in New York on Sunday, marking the first time Israeli teams have competed in North America.
The game, which attracted around 8,000 spectators, showcased the growing strength of the sport in Israel, with many fans waving Israeli flags and singing in Hebrew.
The Jerusalem Capitals clinched a thrilling 7-6 overtime victory, with Denis Zaychik scoring the game-winning goal just over two minutes into extra play. One of the standout performances came from 16-year-old forward Nikita Zitserman of Jerusalem, who recorded a hat trick. Zitserman, a rising star in Israeli hockey, currently plays in Germany’s U17 league and is considered a prospect for future NHL drafts.
Adding to the event’s emotional significance, 87-year-old Holocaust survivor Ivan Gluck was honored as the Jerusalem Capitals’ honorary captain, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd.
This game is part of a broader effort to expand the reach of the Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL), which was founded in 2020. The league has worked to develop the sport in Israel, attracting international players and growing its domestic fanbase. By bringing Israeli hockey to a global stage, this event marks a major step toward increasing the sport’s visibility and competitiveness.