Raul 'the doctor' Geller

Geller, who was born in Peru, is more than likely the first and only Israeli soccer player to double as a player and an orthopedist. He is remembered as the player who brought Betar Jerusalem to life. To this day, Betar is a symbol of the Israeli right wing and the champion of the lower classes.

When Geller arrived at the club, they were a local phenomenon languishing in the Second Division. Geller led them to the top league and cemented their fan base with his technical excellence.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. 1936

Career Highlights:
Geller played a key part in the successful promotion campaign of club team Porvenir Mirfloris in 1960. He then played for the Peruvian national team in the 1964 Copa America.

In the mid-1960s, Geller went to Israel and joined Betar Jerusalem. His career reached its zenith during the strike-plagued 1966-67 season when Betar finally won promotion. Geller was the undisputed star, scoring 41 goals. In the next season he helped Betar avoid relegation and retired from play at the age of 34. He stands behind Uri Malmilian and Eli Ohana as Betar's third top scorer of all time although he played only four seasons with the club.

Origin:
Kiwamba, Peru

Career Dates:
Player: 1956-69

Position:
Attacking Midfielder