About Ibdaa's Sports Program

Sports are among the most popular activities at Ibdaa, providing a respite from the realities of life and an avenue for young people to have fun, engage with one another, and excel. There is no space in the crowded camp for sports activities so Ibdaa's teams are a rare opportunity for children and youth to play in the fields and halls in the surrounding towns and villages. Ibdaa has over 220 official players in its basketball, ping-pong, football, and volleyball teams. In addition, although sports are generally considered a male domain, Ibdaa established the first women's basketball team and the first women's volleyball team from a Palestinian refugee camp.

Basketball

There are three men's and two women's basketball teams in Ibdaa's basketball program, with players ranging in age from 10 to 35. Ibdaa regularly hosts and organizes tournaments for Palestinian teams across the West Bank, Gaza, and inside Israel. The men's basketball team is consistently ranked number one in Palestine and was ranked number two in the Arab world in 2005. Following Ibdaa's tradition of passing skills from one generation to the next, former players coach the basketball teams.

 

Football

Ibdaa coordinates football teams for Dheisheh's youth who, like many children around the world, begin playing football at a very young age in the narrow streets and alleys of the camp. During the summer, Ibdaa has access to a concrete schoolyard for practices, but must rent a football field in another city for games. In the winter, practices are held in a public hall since there is no outdoor space available. Despite these obstacles, football is one of Ibdaa's most popular sports, with three teams that continue to improve their football skills and enjoy their games, practices, and team bonding experiences.

Volleyball

Ibdaa currently has two men's teams and one women's team in its volleyball program. The 60 players range in age from thirteen to twenty-five. The men's team placed first in the southern West Bank and the women's team is ranked number two in the whole West Bank.

Ping Pong

Ibdaa's Ping Pong team includes Palestinian Christian and Muslim players from all over the Bethlehem and Hebron districts. They regularly place first in championships and have just joined the professional league.