For the first time, Israel’s women’s national basketball team will be led by a female head coach. Shira Haelion was officially named head coach on Tuesday, after her appointment was approved by the professional committee of the Israeli Basketball Association. The team begins its EuroBasket Qualifiers campaign in November.
Haelion, regarded as one of the most successful coaches in the Israeli women’s league, called the appointment “an incredible honor and a dream come true.” She added, “It’s a huge privilege to earn the trust to lead the national team, especially at such a pivotal moment. We have outstanding Israeli players, and I’m excited to begin working with them ahead of our first challenge in November.”
Limor Peleg, who coached Hapoel Lev Jerusalem to back-to-back appearances in the State Cup final, winning the trophy in historic fashion last season, has been appointed as Haelion’s assistant. The pair form the first all-female coaching staff in the history of the national team.
Liron Cohen, chair of the women’s basketball committee, praised the appointments. “Shira was selected for her professional skills, extensive experience and shared vision for the future of Israeli women’s basketball,” Cohen said.
“This is a major step forward in advancing the role of deserving women in Israeli sports. Shira is the first woman ever appointed as head coach of the senior national team, and we’re proud to make history with her."
Cohen, a former longtime player for the national team, added: “I’m proud to continue contributing to the program in a managerial role.”
Haelion began her coaching career with Hapoel Tel Aviv before moving to Hapoel Rishon Le'zion, leading the team to a strong playoff run.
She has coached top clubs including Elitzur Ramla, Maccabi Ramat Gan and the men’s team of Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Last season, she guided Maccabi Ashdod to a historic treble, winning the Winner Cup, the State Cup and the league championship.
She has also coached at every level of the women’s national program, including the reserve, youth and cadet teams, and previously served as an assistant to former head coach Eli Rabi.
Israel has been drawn into a qualifying group with Luxembourg, Ireland and Bosnia. The first qualifying window in November includes three games, with three more scheduled for February.
First published: 15:34, 09.09.25