In an illustrious ceremony hosted by the Federation for Non-Olympic Sports in Israel held in Modi'in this evening, the U15 cricket team received a special award for their fantastic performance at the 2001 European "B" Championships, where they won the silver medal. The federation honored all teams and individuals who won medals in European and other international competitions in 2001. This was the first time that cricket has received such an award.

Captain Gal Matz, together with vice-captain Dani Hotz, received the award on behalf of their team from the Minister of Sport, Mr. Matan Vilnai.

In his address, the minister pointed out the need for all Israelis to continue with their daily lives, which includes all sporting and recreational activities, despite the extremely difficult security situation Israel currently faces. He thanked the thousands of sportsmen and administrators who dedicate so much of their time and resources to the successful continuation of all the smaller, non-Olympic sports in Israel, that lack the funding and support of the mainstream sports.

Tel Aviv Cricket Club was also awarded with a prize for having won the 2001 domestic league

© Israel Cricket Association