From Beit Hanan to Burlington: Yaniv Bazini's Championship Journey

A Halftime Ritual and a Historic Win

The roar of the crowd faded as the clock ticked down to zero in the first half of the NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Championship. Amidst the electric atmosphere of WakeMed Soccer Park, Yaniv Bazini, a forward for the University of Vermont, retreated to the familiar concrete walls of the locker room. There, amidst the strategic discussions and motivational speeches, he found a moment of quiet reflection. He performed his customary halftime ritual: reciting the Shema, a Jewish prayer of affirmation. Little did he know, this simple act of faith preceded the biggest second half of his life, a half that would culminate in a national championship victory.

From Israeli Turf to American Soil

Bazini's journey began on the sun-baked fields of Beit Hanan, Israel. Honing his skills from the age of five, he played for various Israeli clubs, including Sektzia Ness Ziona and Hapoel Rishon Lezion's youth team. Even the COVID-19 pandemic couldn't halt his progress, as he continued playing for Yermiyahu Holon, a professional team in Israel's third division. But Bazini's ambition extended beyond Israel's borders. He dreamt of playing in the United States, a dream that would soon become a reality.

Finding His Place: From NC State to UVM

After completing his mandatory service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Bazini received a scholarship to play Division I soccer at North Carolina State University. "I knew I wanted to be a soccer player from day one," Bazini said, reflecting on his unwavering dedication. While NC State offered exposure in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference, Bazini felt a disconnect. Seeking a more nurturing environment, he transferred to the University of Vermont, a decision he describes as "the best college decision I ever made."

The Rise of a Catamount: A Legacy in the Making

Bazini's arrival at UVM marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter. He quickly established himself as a key player, scoring crucial goals and leading the Catamounts to deep runs in the NCAA tournament. Between seasons, he represented Team USA at the 2023 Pan American Maccabi Games in Buenos Aires, an experience that reinforced his connection to his Jewish heritage, especially in the wake of challenging global events. Back at UVM, Bazini continued to shine, racking up accolades and breaking records. His senior year saw him achieve a career-high 14 goals, solidifying his place in UVM men's soccer history.

A Cinderella Story: Defying the Odds

Unranked and underestimated, the Vermont Catamounts entered the 2024 NCAA tournament with a focused "one game at a time" mentality. They embraced the underdog label, transforming it into a source of motivation. “They called us underdogs… so we crossed out the under and just wrote dogs,” Bazini shared, illustrating the team's unwavering determination. Their unwavering focus propelled them past ranked opponents, including a thrilling penalty shootout victory that secured their place in the National Championship game.

A National Champion: A Moment of Triumph

The championship game against Marshall University was a tense affair, culminating in a sudden-death overtime. Just five minutes in, teammate Maximillian Kissel found the back of the net, etching their names in history as UVM's first-ever national champions in any team sport. As the stadium erupted, Bazini, draped in an Israeli flag, celebrated a victory that resonated far beyond the field. "I still can't completely comprehend it," he said humbly, acknowledging the significance of the win for Vermont, the Jewish community, and his home country of Israel.

Looking Ahead: A Future Filled with Promise

With the championship title secured, Bazini sets his sights on the future, aspiring to play at the highest level in Europe. He remains committed to representing his community and using his platform for good. "Since October 7, I have wanted to be the best ambassador possible," Bazini stated, highlighting his dedication to showcasing the positive aspects of his heritage. Driven by an unwavering work ethic and a deep sense of purpose, Yaniv Bazini's journey is far from over.

"Don't call them Cinderella, you can call them national champions!" - ESPN's Dalen Cuff