Pickleball Champion Minnie LaPoint: In the vibrant pickleball community, Minnie LaPoint stands out as a living proof to the sport’s enduring appeal and its ability to transcend age. At the remarkable age of 99, LaPoint represents how pickleball can invigorate one’s life and build a spirited, active lifestyle well into one’s senior years.
LaPoint’s entry into pickleball began a decade ago, spurred by the encouragement of her daughter and son-in-law. Reflecting on her introduction to the sport, LaPoint shared, “I thought it’d be kind of interesting. She coached me along and I’ve been playing ever since.” This enthusiasm for pickleball is just another chapter in a life filled with adventurous pursuits.
Originally from Traverse City, LaPoint’s move to Kalamazoo was driven by her quest for new experiences. Her life has been a series of exhilarating activities, including picking up tennis at 54, participating in a Polar Plunge at 84, and skydiving for the first time at 88. These accomplishments highlight her unyielding spirit and readiness to embrace new challenges. Her daughter, Yvonne Hackenberg, reflects on her mother’s adaptability: “Everything else goes by the wayside and she really adapted to it quickly and was excited to play.”
At The Point on the edge of Kalamazoo, LaPoint can be seen playing pickleball twice a week, where her dedication and skill continue to shine. “I’ve met so many friends and everyone’s out there for a helping hand,” LaPoint notes, emphasizing the camaraderie and supportive environment of the pickleball community.
Minnie LaPoint’s story is a powerful illustration of how one can live life to the fullest regardless of age. Her zest for pickleball and the joy it brings her serve as an inspiring reminder of the sport’s ability to enhance life’s quality. “It’s all happiness. I’m ready to go! Can’t get to (the court) fast enough,” LaPoint says with a smile. “(Pickleball) will take off all your worries. You’ll think positive every day.”
News in Brief: Pickleball Champion Minnie LaPoint
At 99, Minnie LaPoint from Kalamazoo, Mich., is an inspiring figure in the pickleball community. LaPoint took up the sport a decade ago, encouraged by her daughter and son-in-law, and quickly embraced it. Her adventurous spirit extends beyond pickleball; she started tennis at 54, participated in a Polar Plunge at 84, and tried skydiving at 88. Now playing twice a week at The Point in Kalamazoo, LaPoint continues to impress with her dedication and skill. Her story highlights how pickleball and a positive attitude can redefine aging and keep one active and engaged in life.
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