Roosters met with Rabbi Eli Schlanger days before Bondi attack
Five days before one of Australia's darkest days, a group of Sydney Roosters players visited a Bondi synagogue. What happened next would change the meaning of that meeting forever.
On December 9, 2025, Sydney Roosters players met with Rabbi Eli Schlanger and community leaders in the Eastern Suburbs Jewish community. The group included Hugo Savala, Cody Ramsay, and Billy Smith. They dined on kosher food, learned Jewish customs at Chabad of Bondi, and walked the beachfront. Days later, a devastating terror attack occurred at Bondi Beach, resulting in the death of Rabbi Schlanger.
Ten months later, the Roosters were preparing for a grand final against a Newcastle team seen as community-minded underdogs. The club's involvement and support during the attack's aftermath showcased their deep community ties. Rabbi Ulman, Schlanger's father-in-law, described the players' curiosity and interest in understanding Jewish customs.
Roosters CEO Joe Kelly noted the players' immediate liking for Rabbi Schlanger, who was known for connecting with people. Rabbi Ulman highlighted the players' grief over the attack, which had a significant impact on both the club and the community. The Tricolores held a coin toss and delivered the ball at the club's first home game of the new year, honoring their late teammate.
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