Golden Oldies

In Celina, we are well-known for our production of amazing athletes. You need only look as far as the trophy cases at Celina High School to see that we are not short on accomplishments in any sport in which we participate.

One group that has made its way into headlines recently is the Celina Senior Center’s Golden Oldies Chair Volleyball team. Yes! You read that right, there’s a group of seniors that meet weekly a the Celina Senior Center to perfect their game.

Sher-Den Home Health in Sherman, Texas sponsors 8 local chair volleyball teams including the Celina’s Golden Oldies. Last month the team’s practice paid off as they brought home the Grand Championship trophy, awarded at Sher-Den's first ever Chair Volleyball Tournament, which was held in Sherman.

Susan Vincent, LBSW, Community Liaison for Sher-Den Home Health said the team, which was formed in February 2018, named themselves the Golden Oldies.

The goal of the program is ultimately to increase dexterity, and maintain keen hand-eye coordination, but the Golden Oldies find it to be a lot of fun.

Freda Thomason is one of the original members of the Golden Oldies and she says, "We take it very serious, but we gain a lot of friendships also."

The most "seasoned" member out of all eight teams is Celina's John Rothfus. Rothfus served in World War II and at a very young 94 years of age he has a mean spike and doesn't take it easy on the younger players.

Members of the City of Sherman Parks and Recreation Specialist Staff served as the officials of the tournament. Other teams represented included The Aces, Rusty Buckets, The Blue and The Orange Bouncers.

"It felt awesome to win," said Jackie Turner. "Afterwards, we went to Hucks to celebrate."

Although all teams were talented, none could hold their own against our Golden Oldies. Sherman came close as the Golden Oldies found themselves 8 points down in the championship game, but came back to take it all! Vincent, says that with the success and feedback from the players, they’re planning to make the chair volleyball tournament an annual wellness event.