You know it is coming. The temporary AARP card gave it away. No, it was not mine. It is only a matter of time.
Several weeks ago an old college friend sent me a Facebook message wondering if I was interested in playing in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. In my twenties I played in the 3-on-3 street tournament in the West End in Dallas, Texas. In my thirties I played in a church league. In my forties I have played in an over-40 league. Next month I may start thinking about finding a 50+ league.
Griff sent the details. “Register at nsga.com.” I clicked over to learn I had been invited to play in the National Senior Games Association event in Yukon, Oklahoma. I did not know whether to be grateful or grumble. Really? Am I old enough to play in these games?
I read through the details. The games were slotted by age. It looked like we would be playing in the 50-54-age bracket. I turn 50 next month and so qualify since my 50th birthday occurs before 12/31/2013. I signed up. They promised a t-shirt. Great, I will wear it mowing the lawn this summer.
Thursday Griff contacted me to let me know they were having trouble fielding teams. If I had a friend we would divide our team into two. The disadvantage? No substitutes. No sweat. Who needs subs? Me!
I showed up to learn there were just three teams. Two of the three teams were formed from or original team members.
We sized up the other team. I am guessing the youngest team member was near 70. One of the men played for Henry Iba at Oklahoma State University in the late 1950’s. Since there were not enough teams from other age slots we were all thrown together.
Our team of three won both our games. We won a medal. Even more, we won the privilege of watching men nearly 20 years our senior enjoying the game, playing competitively, and on their way to Cleveland for a national event.
When I get older I hope my body holds up like those men who played well today.
