Aileen Rafferty Pickleball Inspiration: At 90 years old, Aileen Rafferty is proving that age is just a number. She plays pickleball three times a week with the Ticonderoga Senior Center’s pickleball program, showing how the sport helps seniors stay active, social, and happy. Her story is inspiring seniors all over the community.
Aileen Rafferty started playing in 2017 after her husband passed away in 2015. She joined the Ticonderoga Senior Center and later picked up a pickleball paddle. Since then, she’s played regularly every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Armory.
A Community of Active Seniors
Each week, seniors gather at the Armory to play. They range in age from their late 50s to 90 years old. They come for the exercise, but also for the friendships they’ve built on and off the court.
“We’re moving,” said Mike Kennedy. “We are not sitting home watching the news 24/7.”
On the court, seniors smile, sweat, and support one another. Despite some falls and light injuries, like Rafferty’s glasses being knocked off or her hearing aids getting bumped, the group loves the energy and fun the game brings.
“It can be pretty physically intensive,” said Aileen Rafferty. “I’ve been hit in the back of the head, had my hearing aids knocked out, and my glasses knocked off my face. It’s all part of it. It’s a very competitive and very fun game.”
Pickleball’s Physical and Mental Benefits
The sport is low-impact and easy on the joints. It helps with balance, coordination, and heart health. Seniors can play at their own pace, which makes it perfect for different fitness levels.
“Pickleball is a very popular sport so you can play it elsewhere, like if you are visiting friends and family,” said Carol Keating. “It’s easier on the joints and easy to play.”
Seniors say the sport has brought them more than just fitness—it’s created a sense of family.
“Our group is very social,” said Carol Keating. “We have become a little family.”
Rafferty agreed. She felt welcomed and supported at the center. “Coming here gives me something to look forward to each day. Not that I don’t have grandchildren and family, but for people my age, it’s important to have socialization with peers who share the same interests.”
The group even celebrated Rafferty’s 90th birthday with a party filled with joy and friendship.
Growing Popularity and Plans for More Courts
When Aileen Rafferty first joined, mostly women played. Now there’s a good mix of men and women. Around 30 to 40 seniors participate in the pickleball program. Because of this growth, space at the Armory is becoming limited.
Three courts are planned for Ticonderoga’s Recreation Park to help meet the demand. Patty Hogan, former owner of Northern Lake George Paddle, is leading the project.
“Seniors love pickleball and the community built around pickleball, so having beautiful outdoor courts in Ticonderoga will be a positive part of an equation to keep our seniors and super seniors happier and healthier,” said Patty Hogan.
“There is a need for it,” added Aileen Rafferty. “Sometimes the Armory is so packed that play time is limited.”
Welcoming New Players
For those 55 and older, beginner pickleball clinics are available. Mike Tighe teaches the clinic on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon. Interested players must register through the Ticonderoga Senior Center at 123 Champlain Avenue.
“Aileen is my hero,” said senior player Sue Catroppa. “I want to be like her when I grow up.”
News in Brief: Aileen Rafferty Pickleball Inspiration
Ticonderoga’s pickleball program is helping seniors stay fit and build strong friendships. Aileen Rafferty, 90, plays three times a week and credits the sport with changing her life. With growing interest, new outdoor courts are in the works. Clinics are also available for seniors wanting to join.
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