National Senior Games Pickleball Event: Pickleball continues to grow at the National Senior Games, with more than 800 players competing in 2025. The tournament, hosted at Picklr for the first time, welcomes athletes of all skill levels. Although this is a non-qualifying year, players are eager to compete for medals and test their skills.
Senior Athletes Showcase Dedication
Many competitors have been part of the Mississippi Senior Games for years. Janet Meaut, a former board member and now a volunteer, expressed amazement at the determination of older athletes.
“For a 92-year-old to get up and do this… it’s amazing.” – (Meaut)
Glenda Carter, who serves as co-chairman, treasurer, and registrar, has also been involved in organizing the games. She noted that despite the lack of national qualification this year, the turnout remains strong.
Burkhart Competes After Years of Organizing
One of the competitors, Tom Burkhart, previously worked as a co-tournament director for pickleball at the National Senior Games. In 2025, more than 3,000 players will compete at the national level in Des Moines, Iowa. Burkhart, who is stepping away from his role as an organizer, is now focused on competing. His approach to the game is simple.
“You can kind of get an idea. It runs usually about 10 days.” – (Tom Burkhart)
“Try to stay alive.” – (Tom Burkhart)
The tournament divides players into four skill-based divisions, with the oldest participant this year being 82 years old.
More Senior Games Events in March
Alongside pickleball, the National Senior Games include other competitions such as darts, shuffleboard, bocce, and cornhole. The 2025 edition is expected to bring exciting matches and highlight the growing popularity of pickleball among senior athletes.
News in Brief: National Senior Games Pickleball Event
Pickleball continues to gain popularity at the National Senior Games, with over 800 players competing in 2025. Hosted at Picklr for the first time, the tournament welcomes athletes of all skill levels. Tom Burkhart, a former organizer, is now competing, while other events like darts and bocce are also taking place in March.
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