Professional soccer players coach kids with special needs, bringing them joy and feelings of acceptance.

For kids with special needs, the idea of playing mainstream organized sports seems nearly impossible.

However, a new Israeli soccer team is making this a reality for many children.

Hapoel Special Olympics coaches youth with special needs, including autism and mental disabilities, with the participation of professional soccer players.

One of the coaches, Yoav Gabizon, shares with i24 News how he became involved, how the team is helping the children, and why this work is so meaningful to him.