Darrell Edwards Pickleball Inspiration: Darrell Edwards, age 91, is the oldest player in the Baltimore County Department of Aging’s Pickleball Palooza, a senior round-robin tournament held this week. Matches are taking place at Dill Dinkers in Cockeysville and White Marsh and at Bounce in Pikesville.
Competing with Younger Players
Darrell Edwards, who began playing pickleball four years ago at the Bykota Senior Center in Towson, joined the event with fellow players from the center. He is competing alongside Pam Trainor, age 62. Because of tournament rules, the pair must compete in the younger partner’s age group.
“I can’t go out and play tennis anymore and I don’t play softball, don’t play baseball. It’s a wonderful exercise for a man of my age and condition.”(Darrell Edwards)
Staying Active and Healthy
Darrell Edwards said the sport has been key to keeping him moving and healthy.
“I have to be doing something. I move around a lot. If I was sitting at home watching television, I wouldn’t be in the condition I’m in now. For me, somebody in the nineties, I think I do pretty well.”(Darrell Edwards)
Although he and his partner did not win their matches, he shared that he felt proud of his effort.
“I look like I maybe did pretty well for my age group. I have this young lady as a partner, so she drops me down, but we, we get along together.”(Darrell Edwards)
Family Support
His daughters, Cindy Glass and Laura Edwards, praised how much pickleball has helped their father.
“Pickleball has really helped Dad. With his balance and coordination, and even a little bit with his reflex.”(Darrell Edwards)
“They were best friends,” Cindy Glass said of her parents. “They did so much together. So now having a social outlet where he gets to see people and talk to people that aren’t his daughters (laughs). That’s been really wonderful.”
Life Beyond Pickleball
Darrell Edwards plays four days a week at the senior center. He also joins the writing club and plays pool. Afterward, he often visits his favorite local bar, The Raven Inn.
“I wouldn’t have any social life ever if it wasn’t for my family and the senior center. That’s all I got.”(Darrell Edwards)
Looking Ahead
Despite not winning in this year’s Pickleball Palooza, Darrell Edwards says he plans to continue playing as long as he is able to step on the court. His love for the game and community keeps him motivated to stay active.
News in Brief: Darrell Edwards Pickleball Inspiration
Darrell Edwards, age 91, competed in the Baltimore County Pickleball Palooza, making him the oldest player in the senior tournament. Partnered with Pam Trainor, 62, he played against much younger competitors. His daughters say the sport has improved his health and social life.
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