Samson Israel Tennis & Education Center – Beer Sheva
The first Prime Minister of Israel, David Ben Gurion, declared that the population and development of the Negev is imperative to the future of the entire nation of Israel. Many years later, Beer Sheva has become the Negev’s largest and most influential metropolis, currently the fifth largest city in Israel. In the past two decades the city’s tremendous growth can be attributed in large part to the multiple waves of immigrants from Ethiopia and the former Soviet Union who have made Beer Sheva their home. Welcomed with open arms, Beer Sheva is now home to 6,000 Ethiopian Jews. As this population continues to grow, ITEC’s goal is to successfully integrate the children of these refugees into Israeli society and ensure that they become successful and productive Israeli citizens.
To accommodate this growing community, ITEC launched its Excellence Program for Ethiopian children which aims to help Ethiopian youth gain confidence and transcend social barriers by instilling a sense of identity and belonging.
In the 2024–2025 program year, the Be’er Sheva center welcomed 137 Social Impact participants and serves more than 450 children annually. With six tennis courts, two soccer fields, three bell shelters, and one large bomb shelter, the center is both a hub of athletic excellence and a safe gathering place for children. At its heart is an oasis of joy, where young people come together to play, learn, and grow.
The center is also home to a 12,000-square-foot social service complex, featuring classrooms, recreational spaces, and supportive programming for children and families. Beyond daily activity, Be’er Sheva proudly hosts local, national, and international tournaments, making it a cornerstone of sport, community, and opportunity in the region.
Featured Social Impact Programs
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Youth At Risk
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Ethiopian Excellence
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Living Together
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Special Needs
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Girls Empowerment
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High Performance
ITEC Beer Sheva Center Manager: Yaniv Sakira
If you would like to visit ITEC Beer Sheva, please contact Sophie Katz-Sulam at sophiek@tennis.org.il
