Former Beitar Jerusalem player Shimon Chernocha dies at age 78

ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFAUGUST 8, 2026 03:16Former Beitar Jerusalem player Shimon Chernocha passed away on Wednesday at the age of 78, according to a KAN report.The former soccer player, the first Beitar Jerusalem member to wear the Israel National Team uniform, played for the team from 1966 to 1969 and again from 1971 to 1973.After his retirement, Chernocha continued his time with the team by coaching its youth team.KAN cited the football club, which paid tribute to Chernocha following his death."For years, Chernocha was one of the pillars of Beitar Jerusalem's defense," it said. "He was known as an uncompromising fighter, a tough defender and a leader on the pitch, one who never gave up in any fight and became one of the most beloved and respected players by the Jerusalem crowd."Fans of Beitar Jerusalem shout slogans during a match against Bnei Sakhnin as part of the Israeli Premier League (credit: REUTERS)Club owner Barak Abramov described Chernocha as "a symbol for every Beitar fan," who "wore the Beitar emblem with great pride," according to an X/Twitter post by the club on Wednesday."I share in the family's grief over the loss, and of course we will ensure to honor him before our home crowd," he said.Former player: 'Every player on the team loved him'The report further cited former team player Aviram Brokhian, who trained under Chernocha and eulogized him."He was always a listening ear, knew how to give the combative advice to the team," said Brokhian. "Every player on the team loved him.""There was a consensus regarding the respect towards him," continued Brokhian. "He demanded and also gave of himself in equal measure."Follow us on Google