Israel has changed. From the driven ideological society that saw the return to physicality as part of a Zionist vision, it is now a modern consumer state where the individual more often than not makes his or her decision based on ideas of personal reward and fulfillment that do not involve the good of the society or state. Nevertheless, underneath the surface there are still issues of national pride and service that continue to influence many. This balance of individual needs and group service can be seen in many different fields of Israeli life. We suggest that it can also be seen in the world of Israeli sport.

We began this survey by suggesting that an examination of the world of sport in Israel touches some unexpectedly rich territory. It is one interesting and rewarding way of understanding many of the deeper features of this society. May this survey, provide an opening to the complexity of the society of the State of Israel.