Share your story Tennessee Senior Olympics story with us.

In 2002, I sat across the table at the senior awards' luncheon from Jan Saunders of Sunbright, Tenn. I was alone as my  doubles tennis partner did not come and Jan  was alone for the same reason.The  luncheon ended with the state official telling us to play together as we had both qualified. That was the beginning of a long lasting partnership still in 2009.  We also combined our efforts and published a book together called Shira's Song.  I would have never met Jan who lives an hour away from me if it had not been for senior games. When we roomed together for events we wrote our book and Jan now comes to Fairfield once a week to play tennis with a group we are both members of.  We have partnered in USTA events and have won  medals in local and state levels. Thanks to senior games we have more than a tennis love relationship.    Beverly LaHote Schwind, Fairfield Glade, TN - 10 year participate - Subitted July, 2009

I became involved in the Senior Games in 1993. At that time I was still employed as a church secretary. I retired in 1997 so I could play more! I have made so many good friends through the years. I have also attended all the Nationals since 1995 in San Antonio. My best sport is horseshoes, but my favorite is basketball. This year my 49 year old son Michael joined me in playing table tennis. I love the games and can't imagine my life without them. Thank you for all you do for seniors to help keep them healthy and active. I plan to compete until I'm 100 - so far, so good.   Joyce G. Manis, Kingsport, TN - 16 year participant  -  Submitted July, 2008

A couple of years ago I was on the operating table with open heart surgery on the District qualifying date..Naturally, I didn't get to qualify for the State Finals.  So I just attended with my wife Jane who did qualify and participated..Some old Coots moving around getting ready..One said: "Hey, Wade, we missed you at District. Where ya been?" Well, I told them:"I had three bypasses with open heart surgery." Somebody in the group said: "Heck!I had 5 bypasses and a new hip put in, where's the discus?" I didn't even get to have a pity party...Go getum old Coots....Wade Odom, Baxter, TN - 10 year participant    -   Submitted June, 2008