News Summary

The National Senior Games are coming to Des Moines, Iowa, featuring senior athletes competing across 30 events, including a highlight on tennis. Athletes like Duane Pomeroy, Peg Schlacks, and Allwyn Chao demonstrate resilience and sportsmanship, emphasizing the importance of staying active and celebrating the joy of competition. With the games attracting over 100,000 participants annually, this event promotes health and camaraderie among seniors, challenging stereotypes about aging. As they prepare for the event, these athletes inspire others to embrace sports at any age.

National Senior Games in Des Moines to Kick-Off Exciting Tennis Events

Des Moines, Iowa is buzzing with excitement as the National Senior Games are set to take place later this month! This thrilling event celebrates senior athletes from across the country who have a passion for sports, showcasing a whopping 30 different events, including the always-popular tennis!

A Journey of Resilience

One athlete who’s poised for success is Duane Pomeroy, the energetic head coach of both boys’ and girls’ tennis at Topeka High School. Pomeroy, now competing in the 70-75 age bracket, has been looking forward to this moment for quite some time. Although he has previously qualified for the National Senior Games, this marks his debut due to a battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome in 2020, which significantly limited his ability to compete.

For him, these games are all about celebrating the joy of remaining active and pursuing a love for sports, independent of the typical competitive atmosphere. It’s not just a tournament; it’s a heartfelt celebration of athleticism and perseverance. He can’t wait to step into the spotlight during the Parade of Athletes, sharing the experience with fellow competitors who embrace the same philosophy of continued participation in sports as they age.

Hitting the courts at the local Kossover Tennis Center and a nearby Genesis club, Pomeroy is no stranger to competition. Having participated in multiple USTA National Championship tournaments, he brings his wealth of experience and infectious enthusiasm to the games.

Coaching with Purpose

For the past 31 years, Pomeroy has dedicated his efforts to nurturing young talent at Topeka High School. He started coaching tennis at the age of 42 and has built an inclusive program that welcomes all players, boasting impressive numbers of around 45 girls in the fall and 50 boys in the spring. His inclusive “no-cut” policy encourages every student to join the team, fostering a supportive atmosphere.

Pomeroy is also passionate about adaptive tennis, having previously coached athletes with disabilities, making opportunities for all students to experience the joy of competition.

Sporting an Emphasis on Enjoyment

Joining Pomeroy in the tennis events is Peg Schlacks, a spirited 74-year-old who is ready to compete while focusing on what truly matters – sportsmanship. Schlacks believes in cherishing the game rather than just chasing wins. She values learning from her peers and appreciates the skills of her opponents. While many women in her community shy away from singles matches after the age of 60, Schlacks presses on, proving age is just a number.

In a remarkable feat, she recently faced off against a 24-year-old former NCAA player and took home the victory! Schlacks, a recognized USTA Missouri Valley Adult Player of the Year (3.5 & Below), encourages fellow seniors to enjoy their time on the court, turning every match into a chance to celebrate the sport she loves.

A True Tennis Veteran

Equally inspiring is Allwyn Chao, who is now 79 years old and boasts a rich history with tennis that dates back to when he was just 14. Having first participated in the National Senior Games in 2009, Chao proved his mettle by winning a silver medal in the mixed doubles category.

For Chao, tennis is more than a physical activity; it has played a significant role in building his confidence and keeping him fit. Playing three to four matches a week, he is a strong advocate for the importance of encouraging seniors to stay active and embrace the joy that comes from participating in sports.

Celebrating the Spirit of Senior Athletes

The National Senior Games are a spectacle in itself, boasting an Olympic-style multi-sport experience that draws over 100,000 participants aged 50 and older each year. These games promote health, well-being, and camaraderie among older adults while challenging stereotypes about aging.

As the excitement simmers down, participants are already looking ahead to the next set of National Senior Games scheduled for 2025 in Des Moines. For now, athletes like Pomeroy, Schlacks, and Chao are ready to shine on the court, reminding us all that the love of the game knows no age limits!

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