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POSTPONED: Israel Elite Hockey Returns to NYC this Weekend

UPDATE: due to the impending blizzard for Sunday, the game has been postponed or canceled. Stay tuned for updates.



The Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL) USA Challenge Cup returns to UBS Arena on Sunday, February 22, 2026, bringing one of Israel’s most prominent hockey rivalries to the New York area. The international matchup between HC Tel Aviv and the Jerusalem Capitals is part of the Israel Elite Hockey League’s annual showcase event in the United States, allowing local fans to see Israeli professional hockey live.

The game is scheduled to begin at 5:00pm at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, the home arena of the NHL’s New York Islanders. This marks another appearance of the Challenge Cup at the modern Belmont Park venue, which previously hosted thousands of fans for this event last year.

Israeli Hockey’s Growing Presence in North America

The Israel Elite Hockey League has expanded its visibility internationally in recent years, with the USA Challenge Cup serving as a key component of that effort. The league features a mix of Israeli-born players and international talent, including athletes from North America and Europe who compete professionally in Israel.

HC Tel Aviv and the Jerusalem Capitals represent two of the league’s most recognized teams, and their rivalry has become the centerpiece of the Challenge Cup series. Previous editions of the event have drawn large crowds and provided fans with a unique opportunity to experience high-level hockey connected to Israel’s growing hockey infrastructure.

The game is expected to feature a full professional production, including arena entertainment, team merchandise, and fan engagement activities throughout the evening.

How to Buy Tickets

Tickets for the USA Challenge Cup are available through Ticketmaster. Fans can select from a wide range of seating options throughout the arena’s lower bowl and premium seating areas. There are no bad seats for this game.

Ticket prices vary by location within the arena, with entry-level seats typically starting at under $50 per ticket and premium sections offering closer views of the ice and upgraded amenities. Some premium ticket packages may include access to exclusive lounges and enhanced hospitality experiences.

Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as previous Challenge Cup events at UBS Arena have drawn strong attendance. Tickets may also be available at the UBS Arena box office on the day of the game, subject to availability.

>>> BUY TICKETS <<<

Use promo code IEHL26 for a $5 discount.

Kosher Food Available at UBS Arena

Fans attending the game will be able to purchase kosher food at UBS Arena. The arena has established kosher food options available at select concession stands, allowing attendees to enjoy kosher meals while watching the game.

Kosher Restaurants near UBS Arena

Fans traveling to Long Island who want to grab a meal before or after the game can look to Jewish communities like West Hempstead (under 15min drive from UBA Arena) with kosher restaurants that include 2 pizzerias (Pizza Block & Sauly’s Pizza), Chinese at Wing Wan, and Oma’s Sushi & Grill. Most of these eateries close around 9pm, so plan accordingly.

Further from the arena, is a multitude of kosher eateries in the 5 Towns (18-30min drive from UBS Arena), many of these restaurants are open later as well.

Make sure you have the YeahThatsKosherNearMe app downloaded to your phone to find the kosher restaurants near you.

Game Location and Arena Access

UBS Arena is located at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, near the Queens-Nassau border, just off of the Cross Island Expressway. The arena is accessible by car and public transportation, including direct access via the Long Island Rail Road’s Elmont-UBS Arena station.

The venue is one of the newest arenas in the New York area, offering modern seating, upgraded concessions, and a full NHL-caliber viewing experience.

Event Details

  • Game: USA Challenge Cup
  • Teams: HC Tel Aviv vs. Jerusalem Capitals
  • Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
  • Time: 5:00pm
  • Location: UBS Arena, Elmont, New York
  • Tickets: Ticketmaster
  • Promo Code: Use promo code IEHL26 for a $5 discount
  • Kosher Food: Available for purchase at the arena

About the author

Dani Klein

Dani Klein founded YeahThatsKosher in 2008 as a global kosher restaurant & travel resource for the Jewish community.

He is passionate about traveling the world, good kosher food / restaurants, social media & the web, technology, hiking, strategy games, and spending time with his friends & family.