Preparing for an overhead is 84-year-old Jim Dittmann who can be found on the pickleball courts several times a week.
Jeff Dunn
Racquet sports have emerged as powerful predictors of longevity, offering some of the highest life expectancy gains among physical activities. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Cottonwood Pickleball Club where 40 active members over the age of 80 prove that staying active can be both joyful and life-extending.
While the physical benefits of pickleball are undeniable, it’s the social connections that truly make an impact. “Of course we get a great workout when we play,” said Janie Blake-Zunino, “but what I truly cherish is the camaraderie—the laughter, the friendships, and the sheer joy of being part of our club. You can always tell when you’re close to the courts by the sound of laughter.”
Bob Thomas, 84, agrees. “Pickleball is the most socially interactive event I’ve ever been involved in,” he said. He and his wife Ann first discovered the sport in the Seattle area in the late ‘70s, but it wasn’t until moving to Sun Lakes in 2017 that they became regular players.
“I play for three reasons,” added 82-year-old Bill Rethke with a grin. “It keeps me feeling young, my social life revolves around the incredible friends I’ve made—and I’ll admit, I get a kick out of putting a smackdown on players 20 years my junior.”
Don’t be fooled into thinking these octogenarians are just tapping the ball around. They’re quick, agile, and competitive—often rivaling players in their 60s.
Take 89-year-old Bev Krueger who still plays and teaches. She discovered pickleball at a clinic led by Sun Lakes legend David Zapatka and quickly rose to prominence, winning multiple national championships, including the 2014 75+ Mixed Doubles and both Mixed and Women’s Doubles titles in 2016. Janie Blake-Zunino also captured the Women’s 70+ Doubles National Championship in 2018. These women are living proof that age is no barrier to excellence.
And you don’t have to be an active player to enjoy the Cottonwood Pickleball Club. For just $25 a year, the club offers a social membership for those who want to be part of the fun without stepping on the court. Members enjoy organized events, informal gatherings, and a strong sense of community—an antidote to isolation and a boost to mental well-being.
“We’re always excited to welcome new faces,” said Club President David Douglas. “Whether you’re a seasoned player, curious to try pickleball, or simply want to enjoy the social side, there’s a place for you here.”
To learn more or to join the club, visit www.slpcc.net.