High school students from Johnson County faced off against senior citizens in the fourth annual ‘Battle of the Ages Pickleball Games’ on Wednesday. Despite rain on and off during the day, the senior players won by a single point in a shortened tournament, marking their fourth straight victory.
The pickleball event took place at outdoor courts in Johnson County and brought together two different age groups for a fun, lighthearted sports competition. Students and seniors teamed up and faced each other in several matches before the rain eventually cut the day short.
Senior Center Board Member, Deborah Poisson said, “It’s amazing. It introduces people to the sport and gets the people together. What we found by bringing these two different groups of people to come together and learn the game of pickleball is that they continue on after the tournament. So in the summer, you’ll find all ages out here on these courts. And you would hope the older folk would pour some wisdom into the younger folk.”
Families Face Off on the Court
One of the highlights of the day was a match between Joe Savery and his granddaughter Emma. It was the first time either of them had played pickleball, but both picked it up quickly and found joy in the sport.
“I’ve never played before, but here I am. I’ve been out ever since I signed up about three times a week. When I told him about it, he was like ‘oh I want to play.’ He’d never played either. Our family is a big ping-pong family and I love playing tennis, as well. So it’s the perfect medium between the two. I like the competitiveness without as high intensity.” – (emma)
“It has been wonderful. The community has come together in every aspect. And it’s such a gift too, being a grandfather and getting to play my granddaughter. What a gift it is and something the whole community gets.” – (Joe Savery)
Pickles for the Losers, Medals for the Winners
Though the pickleball tournament was all in good fun, there were still prizes. The winning team earned medals and a trophy. The losing team received a jar of pickles.
The seniors once again claimed victory and avoided the pickles. But the student team showed improvement and may have a shot at winning next year. The fifth annual ‘Battle of the Ages Pickleball Games’ is expected in 2026.
News in Brief: Battle of the Ages Pickleball Games
Johnson County hosted the fourth ‘Battle of the Ages Pickleball Games’ on Wednesday. Senior citizens narrowly beat local high school students despite rain delays. Family teams, like Joe and Emma Savery, added warmth to the event. The seniors claimed medals, while students walked away with pickles—and hope for next year.