Jeremiah Hollis Jr Pickleball Journey: Jeremiah Hollis Jr., a 71-year-old Air Force veteran, continues to live an active and meaningful life after overcoming several serious health challenges. Despite two knee replacements, a hip replacement, and triple bypass surgery, he stays healthy through pickleball, time with loved ones, and community service.
A New View on Aging
Jeremiah Hollis Jr. retired after working as an engineer in the auto industry and in both federal and local government. After losing his father, Jeremiah Hollis Sr., just two years into retirement, Hollis decided not to follow the same path.
“One of the last things my father said was, ‘Don’t do it like I did. Don’t be a workaholic,’”. “He didn’t have time to enjoy his retirement.
I saw how it destroyed him, not being able to do things and enjoy life. So I decided that I’m not going to do that.”(Jeremiah Hollis Jr)
This moment gave him a new outlook on retirement, one focused on health, fun, and relationships.
Pickleball Brings Purpose
During his 60s, Jeremiah Hollis Jr. stayed fit by golfing, biking, and walking with his wife. Then came a series of health problems that required major surgeries. But he didn’t give up. Instead, he worked hard in physical therapy to rebuild his strength.
Once cleared by doctors, he joined a drop-in pickleball game with a golf buddy. He was hooked right away.
“It felt like a natural progression,”. “The acceleration, the coordination, the precision shots—it all drew me in. It uses a lot of energy.”
Jeremiah Hollis Jr. now has 16 pickleball medals and has played in two national competitions, including the National Senior Games presented by Humana.
Health and Happiness Through Play
Pickleball has helped Jeremiah Hollis Jr. stay fit and mentally sharp. Dr. Isabel Souffront of Conviva Senior Primary Care explains,
“Keeping yourself balanced, focusing on the ball—you’re moving and increasing oxygen throughout your body and strengthening your muscles. Pickleball and similar activities challenge hand-eye coordination. That’s brain exercise, too.”
For Hollis, the sport also provides a strong social connection.
“You get the icing on the cake with the socialization of it all. I’ve made a lot of new friends,”.
More Than Just a Sport
Beyond pickleball, Jeremiah Hollis Jr. enjoys helping others. He volunteers with charities and veterans’ groups, and believes in keeping his mind active.
“You’ve got to exercise your brain. It’s like anything in life,”.
He also values family time. He and his wife hold game nights with their six children and three grandchildren. They play board games and solve puzzles together. “It’s a time to relax, have fun, and share legacy moments,” he said.
Looking Toward the Future
Jeremiah Hollis Jr. recently took part in the National Veterans Golden Age Games in Memphis, Tennessee. He plans to compete again this summer at the National Senior Olympics in Des Moines, Iowa, where he hopes to win another medal.
He will also be honored as a Humana Game Changer—one of 10 athletes chosen for their dedication to staying physically and mentally strong.
For those who can’t attend in person, the Humana Cognitive Games™ are taking place online from July 14 to August 11. These games help keep the brain active and healthy. Dr. Isabel Souffront says,
“Playing stimulating games can reduce the chance of brain fog. You’re challenging yourself, you’re stimulating your brain—and that helps protect against mental decline.”
News in Brief: Jeremiah Hollis Jr Pickleball Journey
Jeremiah Hollis Jr., a 71-year-old veteran, stays healthy and active through pickleball, volunteering, and family time. After major surgeries, he found purpose in sport and friendship. Hollis continues to compete, now aiming for the National Senior Olympics while inspiring others to stay strong—physically, mentally, and socially.
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