Alan Sherman, a pioneer in strengthening connections between U.S. and Israeli sports for five decades, died on July 29 at his home in Potomac, MD. He was 87.

He was instrumental in creating the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, a world resource for the contributions of Jews in sports. He was also the long-time vice president of the Maccabi USA/Sports for Israel, and introduced the U.S. to participation in the World Maccabiah Games. He also created the North American Maccabi Youth Games for athletes 16 years and under. He and his family also supported the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled.