MAC's 65+ Players Find Their Sweet Spot in City League

Never assume that because you’re getting older, you can’t be a cagey competitor. That’s what co-captains Julie Nichols and Sue Griffith say to their teammates on MAC’s new Greater Portland City League S Division tennis team. “S” stands for senior — although “super” would better describe them.

Portland City League recognized the need for active women players ages 65 and older to have a place to compete and formed the “S” division in 2021. It has proved to be a wildly successful experiment, with 12 clubs participating, and some with multiple teams. Elaine Sibley, longtime City League participant and current City League board member and S Division representative, was instrumental in creating the new division. She reported that players, “specifically requested a place, once older, to play with players in their same age range and ability.” Sibley rejoices upon learning that, “Players say it’s fun, challenging, and friendly.”

The MAC S team was formed over the summer and started competing in September. The team has completed half its season and is vying for the No. 2 spot behind Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation team. Matches take place midday on Thursdays from September through early May in the greater Portland area. Each match consists of four doubles teams. Lineups are arranged in order of player strength (based upon recent City League levels or equivalents), making it competitive yet equitable and enjoyable for all levels of play. “This is a competitive, dignified opportunity to enjoy team-level tennis,” Nichols would tell you, “and makes you feel good.”

So, if “cagey” tennis is something you think you’d be interested in, registration opens in the spring for City League, and the senior division will be an option. Sue Basham says, “The response and popularity has been so overwhelmingly positive,” so if you’re over 65 or turning 65 during the City League Tennis season, check it out.

— Julie Nichols & Sue Griffith