Stronger Than Hate: How the PeacePlayers All-Stars Defy Division on the Court
April 09, 2025
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The PeacePlayers Middle East U14 All-Stars team knew that this particular game would be one of the toughest of the season. The atmosphere in the gym was hostile before the first whistle even blew, and as the game progressed, it became clear that the mixed Palestinian-Israeli team was unwelcome.
From the start, the opposing players made their feelings known. They muttered taunts under their breath, cursed, and singled out individual players. For Lin, a young Palestinian player, the words cut deep. Halfway through the game, tears welled up in her eyes as she ran down the court. She had tried to ignore the jeers, but then came the personal attack. “We don’t want you here,” the opposing players sneered, running after her. The words stung, and she couldn’t hold back the tears.
At halftime, frustration and exhaustion weighed on the team. But then, Ofri, an Israeli teammate who was usually quiet, did something unexpected. She stepped forward, gathering the team into a circle with fierce determination. “Girls, we’re together. No matter what happens, we have each other,” she said firmly. “Don’t listen to what they say. This is our game, and everything is in our hands. We are a team.”
In that moment, something shifted. The team felt a renewed sense of unity. It wasn’t just about basketball anymore—it was about standing together. When the game resumed, Ofri made sure to stand by Lin’s side. When another insult was thrown her way, Ofri didn’t hesitate. “Shut up,” she shot back. “She’s my friend. Don’t say anything.”
The All-Stars played with heart, determination, and an unshakable bond. Despite the hostility in the gym, despite the taunts, they won. Not just on the scoreboard, but in proving that their team was stronger than hate. In the end, their unity was what carried them through to victory.
