Mike Harris to Compete in Pickleball: Mike Harris, a logistics management specialist at the Aviation and Missile Command, has secured his spot at the 2025 National Senior Games in pickleball, set to take place from July 30 to August 3 in Des Moines, Iowa. Competing in the 55-59 age division, Harris will test his skills in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, representing 256-Pickleball against top senior athletes from across the country.
Qualifying for the National Senior Games
Harris, 58, earned his place in the national pickleball tournament by finishing in the top four at the Alabama Senior Games, held in Opelika last April. His dedication to the sport and rigorous training prepared him for the challenge.
“I was really excited. I had practiced a lot ahead of time to get ready for the Senior Olympics.” – (Harris)
Although he also qualified in tennis and table tennis, Harris decided to focus on pickleball, his fastest-growing sport, due to scheduling conflicts.
Teammates and Training for Nationals
Harris will compete alongside his Alabama teammates in doubles and mixed doubles, including:
- Barry Putman (Attalla)
- Kip Chappell (Oxford)
- Donnie McGinnis (Munford)
- Lori Cochran (Pell City)
- Laurie Hereford (Birmingham)
As part of 256-Pickleball, Harris has been training regularly in Oxford, where he and his teammates practice weekly in a league format to sharpen their competitive edge.
“The main objective is to play well in my sporting events and to help my teammates win their divisions.” – (Harris)
A Growing Passion for Pickleball
Pickleball has become a major focus for Harris in recent years, as he transitioned from playing tennis and table tennis to competing in one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.
While he has played in past National Senior Games, including Birmingham 2017, this will be his first time competing in pickleball on the national stage.
Harris qualified for the 2023 National Senior Games in pickleball but was unable to travel to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the event. This year, he is determined to make the most of his opportunity.
Looking Ahead to 2029 and Beyond
Harris is already setting his sights on the future of senior pickleball competition, with the 2029 National Senior Games set to return to Birmingham. His goal is to continue competing and to bring home a national medal for Alabama.
If successful, Harris and his pickleball teammates may have the opportunity to meet Alabama Governor Kay Ivey in Montgomery as part of a recognition ceremony.
News in Brief: Mike Harris to Compete in Pickleball
Mike Harris will compete in pickleball at the 2025 National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa, after qualifying in the Alabama Senior Games. He will play in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles with his 256-Pickleball teammates. With past experience in national competitions, Harris aims to make his mark on the senior pickleball circuit.
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