Personal Story:
Itay Eliyahu Martsiano, the son of Frida and Shlomo and the younger brother of Hila and Chen, grew up in Shoham. He was a curious, intelligent child with an extraordinary memory. From a young age, he showed impressive cognitive skills—by age three he could recognize all the flags of the world and name car models, and by age seven he was converting words to numbers and playing with gematria. Despite his excellence, he remained humble and kind.
He attended Nitzanim Elementary School, Yahalom Middle School, and Shoham High School. A gifted athlete, Itay played as a goalkeeper for Maccabi Shoham from the age of five. He was known for his professionalism, persistence, and encouragement of teammates. His coach described him as an outstanding goalkeeper with a calming presence. Itay was also a devoted fan of Maccabi Haifa and followed the team closely.
Beyond his love for sports, Itay had a deep passion for music. He played guitar and enjoyed singing loudly, often brightening up car rides and home gatherings with his voice and charming personality.
Surrounded by many friends who admired his warm nature, Itay spent his time hiking, playing games, and participating in social activities. His family meant everything to him—his parents, sisters, and nieces and nephews were a central part of his life, and he was beloved by all.
Itay enlisted in the IDF on December 16, 2021, joining the Paratroopers Brigade, Ep’eh Battalion. He successfully completed his training, attended the Commanders Course, and served as a platoon sergeant and instructor at the brigade’s training base. As a commander, he was deeply committed to his soldiers, leading them with humility and care. His peers and commanders described him as brave, dedicated, and compassionate. Though he was recommended for Officer School, he chose to focus on completing his regular service and planned to travel with friends afterward.
Iron Swords War:
On October 7, 2023, during a surprise attack by Hamas, Itay—on weekend leave in Shoham—received a call to report to Sderot to help defend the town. With unwavering determination, he headed south and joined a military force from the training base.
Near the Yad Mordechai junction, the force encountered civilians hiding behind a concrete barrier. Itay and his comrades exited the vehicle to protect them from approaching terrorists. In a fierce battle involving gunfire and grenades, Itay fell along with another soldier and two civilians. Thanks to his bravery and determination, the terrorists were prevented from infiltrating Kibbutz Yad Mordechai.
He was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Hadid.
The project envisions the creation of a social-educational fan section in memory of Itay Martsiano z”l, in collaboration with a leading football club, supporters, and Itay’s family. It will combine sports, education, and community engagement to instill the values Itay embodied—excellence, teamwork, and personal resilience—especially among underprivileged youth.
The project may include:
This initiative aims to build a unique community that reflects the values Itay lived by and passes them on to the younger generation through meaningful experiences rooted in football.
Connection to the Project:
Itay’s deep love for football and values like excellence, teamwork, and leadership were an inseparable part of his character. This project is designed to honor his legacy and instill those same principles in others through sports and education.
Estimated Budget: ₪75,000 for staff, equipment, and initial operations.
Iron Swords War:
On October 7, 2023, during a surprise attack by Hamas, Itay—on weekend leave in Shoham—received a call to report to Sderot to help defend the town. With unwavering determination, he headed south and joined a military force from the training base.
Near the Yad Mordechai junction, the force encountered civilians hiding behind a concrete barrier. Itay and his comrades exited the vehicle to protect them from approaching terrorists. In a fierce battle involving gunfire and grenades, Itay fell along with another soldier and two civilians. Thanks to his bravery and determination, the terrorists were prevented from infiltrating Kibbutz Yad Mordechai.
He was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Hadid.
The project envisions the creation of a social-educational fan section in memory of Itay Martsiano z”l, in collaboration with a leading football club, supporters, and Itay’s family. It will combine sports, education, and community engagement to instill the values Itay embodied—excellence, teamwork, and personal resilience—especially among underprivileged youth.
The project may include:
This initiative aims to build a unique community that reflects the values Itay lived by and passes them on to the younger generation through meaningful experiences rooted in football.
Connection to the Project:
Itay’s deep love for football and values like excellence, teamwork, and leadership were an inseparable part of his character. This project is designed to honor his legacy and instill those same principles in others through sports and education.
Estimated Budget: ₪75,000 for staff, equipment, and initial operations.
