MTA stars brought smiles to the faces of the children from the "Bigger than Life" Association at a Purim Carnival held at the Arlozoroff train station

Maccabi Tel Aviv stars arrived at the Arlozoroff train station in Tel Aviv yesterday but with a destination of a very special kind.  They were there to climb aboard the "Train Made for Smiles", one of many events held by the "Bigger than Life" Association to bring joy to the hearts of children suffering from cancer. And with Purim just around the corner, what could be more joyful than a Purim Carnival with clowns, games, treats and of course your favourite football hero! And let's not forget "Maccabino", the Maccabi Tel Aviv mascot, who brought smiles to the faces of one and all.

Maccabi stars Sheran Yeini, Eitan Tibi, Yoav Ziv, Omer Vered and "Maccabino" all joined in with the children and were at their complete service for well over an hour. They answered questions, had their pictures taken with the children and of course were dutiful in handing out the ice-lollies. And what would a Purim Carnival be without all the varieties of costumes the children were wearing, adding to the festive atmosphere. But if you felt your costume wasn't quite complete, not to worry! A make-up booth was at the ready to add the final touches, operated by representatives of "Achim Lesemel", the Maccabi Tel Aviv Fan Club's own community support group.

Afterwards, Maccabi's Yoav Ziv described what it was like to spend time with the children of the "Bigger than Life" Association: "It's great fun to help these kids enjoy themselves. It feels good for yourself too, to know you can give part of yourself and do nice things for other people. I can't imagine any player saying no to an opportunity like this, everybody wants to be a part of events like these that support and help children."