Name: Shir Bloch
Age: 26
Team: Inter Aliyah Banot
Originally from: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Favourite team: Velez Sarsfield
Position: Defender
Football idol: Fabian Cubero
Interesting fact: Despite being a tough defender, Shir is equally comfortable with either foot. Although this is the kind of trait you normally see with more offensive players, we think Shir simply loves being part of the defence and taking strikers out...
''When I was younger, growing up in a football-mad family, I had little choice but to love the sport and my father and brothers were quick to teach me the basics so I could join in on the fun.
''I came to Israel for many reasons and since making Aliyah I've never looked back, it's easily been one of the best decisions I've ever made. The ''new'' reality I created for myself here is simply the best; the social life, going to the beach, playing football, seeing the beautiful sunsets and more.
Shir deputised as goalkeeper during one of Inter Banot's friendlies
''After I found out a few of my friends were playing with Inter Aliyah, I decided to join too and the training sessions on Wednesdays have become part of my weekly routine. Also, my boyfriend, Andy, has been playing in the Liga Gimmel team since the very beginning, back in 2016.
''The fact that Inter Aliyah is made up of mainly Olim Hadashim and everyone there is from somewhere different in the world is just part of what makes it a unique place to play football. Despite our different backgrounds, we all coexist and play in enjoyable environment.
Shir (top row, third from right) at a weekly Inter Banot training session
''I've been playing in Inter Banot for over a year now and absolutely love it.''
''Shir''.