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About Shabbat Schmooze - Strength In Spirit: The Athlete's Journey On And Off The Field

Join us for a special Shabbat Schmooze featuring an inspiring conversation on grit, glory, and grounding — on and off the field. Hear firsthand from athletes who have pushed physical and mental limits, and discover how spirit, resilience, and community continue to guide their journeys.

Featuring Guest Presenters and Panelists:

⭐ Zev Aron — Founder and Captain of AJAX Sunday Thirds

Zev pioneered Sunday football for Shomrei Shabbat players in Melbourne. Under his leadership, AJAX achieved multiple finals appearances and two Harmony Cup championships. A passionate community builder, Zev also loves yoga, swimming, and traveling.

⭐ Noam Kolakofsky — Program Coordinator of Maccabi Little Strikers, Professional Soccer Player, and Personal Trainer

Noam has represented Israel's U16 and U17 national teams, played across Israel, the U.S., and Australia, and now contributes to youth development through Maccabi Melbourne. His journey celebrates the power of sport to build community and identity.

⭐ Catherine Arlove — Olympian | Elite Judoka & Wrestler | Pioneering Australian Combat Sportswoman

Three-time Olympian and one of Australia’s most accomplished judokas, Catherine competed nationally in wrestling and cycling. Beyond elite sport, she’s a physiotherapist, MBA and Law graduate, mother of two, and a fierce advocate for resilience, leadership, and lifelong physical wellbeing.

⭐ Valerian Zaitsev (Moderator) — Former Amateur Judoka and Sports Enthusiast

international tournament winner, and sprinter with Glenhuntly Athletics. Today, Valerian balances his passion for lifting, leadership studies, and philosophy, bringing a thoughtful lens to sports and personal growth.

Dinner. Drinks. Schmoozing & Inspiring Conversation!

No Cost. RSVP Essential.

Round up the crew and join us for an impactful Shabbat dinner night out!

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Shabbat Schmooze - Strength In Spirit: The Athlete's Journey On And Off The Field

Join us for a special Shabbat Schmooze featuring an inspiring conversation on grit, glory, and grounding — on and off the field. Hear firsthand from athletes who have pushed physical and mental limits, and discover how spirit, resilience, and community continue to guide their journeys.

Friday 2 May 2025

8:30 am

Moshe & Dina Kahn Residence

More upcoming YJP events.

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CHANUKAH SPEED DATING MEGA EVENT 2025

On Wednesday, December 17th, meet up to 7 personalised matches in the largest Chanukah virtual speed dating event for Jewish singles!

17 December 2025 at 2:00:00 am

ONLINE EVENT

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YJP Singles Retreat - EOI NOW OPEN

6 - 8 MARCH 2026 | SAVE THE DATE!

6 March 2026 at 6:00:00 am

Pt Leo Retreat

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YJP Mission to Israel - March 2026!

YJP Melbourne invites you to join us on a mission to the holy land in March 2026!

Open to ages 25-45 💙🤍

7 March 2026 at 9:00:00 pm

Jerusalem Israel - HOLY LAND!

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Chanukah Rooftop Party

Rise above the city and light up the night! Join us for a rooftop Chanukah celebration featuring a mega menorah lighting set against Melbourne’s skyline 🕎

18 December 2025 at 9:00:00 am

Balaclava Location on Sign Up

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No More Swiping; Just Striking - YJP Singles Night!

🎳 No More Swiping… It’s Time for STRIKING!

Singles Night at Strike Bowling – Wednesday December 17, 2025

Get ready to roll — literally.

16 December 2025 at 1:00:00 pm

Strike Chadstone

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YJP Summer Retreat 2026 | Australia Day Long Weekend - Reconnect. Refresh. Recharge!

Breakaway from the city and join us for a long weekend away on in the picturesque, heritage-listed surroundings of the Murray River 🏞️

22 January 2026 at 5:00:00 am

Kookaburra Camp Site

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Chanukah 2026 - Pillars of Light @ Federation Square

YJP Melbourne and Chabad Campus are joining forces once again as part of the Pillars of Light program to present a FREE live Chanukah concert at Federation Square!

21 December 2025 at 7:30:00 am

Federation Square

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YJP NextGen Featuring: Harry Sheezel, Andy McGrath & Emma Murray

We’re excited to announce our next YJP Next Gen Melbourne event…

Join us for YJP Next Gen: Health, Psychology and Sport with Harry Sheezel and Andrew McGrath.

4 December 2025 at 7:30:00 am

Provided on Booking

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