Senior Games Keep Seniors Active, Provide Friendly Competition
By Madelaine B. Landry
Sure, some of us can’t “rooster like we used to,” but we were recently able to live vicariously as we observe the thrills and chills of the recent Winter Olympic games in Milan. As armchair athletes, we applauded the athleticism, discipline and sportsmanship demonstrated by competitors from all over the globe.
However, there walk (or run) among us those who like to take it a step further by participating in sporting events themselves, no matter their age. If you’re one of them, consider registering in one or more individual or team events in the SWLA District Senior Olympic Games, to be held April 16 to 24 at the McNeese State University Recreation Sports Complex.
Hosted by the Calcasieu Parish Council on Aging, the games are open to those age 50 and older. Senior athletes competing at this local level have the chance to go on to compete in the national games in Tulsa, Okla., in 2027.
More than 12,000 older adults competed in the National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa in 2025. That number is expected to increase as this year’s contestants are now training for a chance to compete in Tulsa. This multi-sport competition takes place every two years and is dedicated to participants 50 or older.
Rosalind Berry, director of the Senior Games, provided some history. “We assumed responsibility for hosting the SWLA District Senior Games from the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury (a separate entity from us) in 2022. Since then, we have partnered with McNeese State University’s Human Services Department. Student-athletes who are enrolled in the related course earn class credit by officiating the games throughout the week. Under our leadership, we have now coordinated Senior Games for four years, and this partnership has been extremely successful.
“Senior Games is not only beneficial for our seasoned adults, but also for the students involved. At the end of the event, students interested in scholarships (one male and one female), submit an essay describing their experience during Senior Games. These scholarships are funded through fundraising initiatives, on behalf of our agency as well as sponsorships that we request each year from local businesses and corporations to support this week-long event.
“In 2025, we had 365 participants, with some traveling from as far as Texas to compete. Our opening day begins with the Bean Bag Baseball Tournament. Last year we hosted 29 teams, and we expanded the tournament to two days this year to ensure a smoother schedule and a more enjoyable experience for participants.
“Throughout the week, we offer a wide range of events, including track and field, fun day activities (baitcasting, billiards at Frosty Factory, bolo golf, dominoes, horseshoes, spelling, swimming, accuracy throws and washer pitch), shuffleboard, a pickleball tournament (Ward 3), bowling, and putt- putt golf.”
Berry emphasizes that these events are open to anyone age 50 and older, regardless of skill level. “Our goal is to encourage active living, community engagement and friendly competition.”
When we turn 50, society deems that we’re suddenly “old” and perhaps can’t do much of anything athletic any longer. Senior Olympics games are designed to demonstrate the faulty logic involved in such thinking. Created in 1969, the games have grown over the decades, becoming an outlet for older adults who are willing to meet a challenge. While preparing themselves mentally and physically to join in events, they also enjoy the camaraderie and encouragement of others who are also in their second half-century of living. According to The National Senior Games Association, the athletic events “showcase the incredible abilities of older adults, provide opportunities for them to compete against their peers and challenge ageist attitudes.”
The International Olympic games have always strived to maintain three building blocks: excellence, respect and friendship. It’s the mission of the events to build a better world through sport, culture and education. That same mission applies to the Senior Games, but with a caveat: Just try to stop us!
Even if they can’t perform a perfectly executed axel, Lutz or Salchow, seniors are not ready to be put on ice. But over 25 events are available in the Senior Games that shatter senior citizen stereotypes – the pursuit of excellence will never be defined by age. Senior Olympic stories are just as much about perseverance, resilience and triumph as they are about inspiring others to get up and move.
“The Calcasieu Council on Aging encourages all seniors — whether seasoned competitors or firsttimers — to step out, stay active, and celebrate the joy of movement,” says Berry. “The SWLA District Senior Games aren’t just about winning medals; they’re about friendship, fun, and proving that staying in motion keeps us strong in body and spirit. We hope to see you on the field, the court, or the track this April — because every step forward is a victory.”
Berry graciously contacted a few former participants, who shared their experience and insights.
“Exercise … the best part of it is being able to exercise with a large group of our peers. and then there’s meeting new people each year, as well as reuniting with the one that you’ve met previous years … oh and it’s fun. It’s so much fun!” — Betty Ann Vanslyke, 78
“Working together as a team, building relationships with one another — that’s what I like about senior games.” — Pam East, 73
“It helps me stay in shape … I participate in other sports besides bean bag baseball, like outdoor sports, and this tests me in so many ways … my body and mind. Last year, I won 17 medals and was so proud of myself. It was like yeah; I still got it!” — Brenda Jones, 64.
“I enjoy playing the bean bag baseball. The comradery and competitiveness are so much fun. Getting to meet people from different areas is rewarding.” Linda Gaskin,(ageless!)
Bobsled or luge? Snowboard cross or slalom? Cross country, alpine, or Nordic? You won’t find these events in the SWLA Senior Games, but think about how often you feel like a winner just getting down the stairs without having a tight grip on a handrail. With good coaching, dedication to training, and a competitive spirit of fun, who knows what mountains are ahead of you just waiting to be conquered?
Feeling motivated or merely curious? Register today at calcoa.org.
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