Sports
Michigan Athlete, 70, Competes In Tennis At National Senior Games
The Northville resident is honored as a Humana Game Changer for inspiring others with his passion for staying active.
The National Senior Games, presented by Humana, is the largest multi-sport event in the world for people aged 50+. Ever since the first Games in 1987 in St. Louis, the National Senior Games has sought to motivate adults to lead active, healthy lifestyles.
The 2023 National Senior Games, held in Pittsburgh, included nearly 12,000 athletes from across the country competing in 21 unique sports.
Since 2013, Humana has recognized outstanding athletes – those who exemplify active aging and provide encouragement, motivation, and inspiration for people of all ages to pursue lifelong health – as Humana Game Changers.
Today, Patch is shining a spotlight on Charlie Siracusa, 70, from Northville, who competed in men’s tennis singles at the National Senior Games. Not only does he love playing tennis, but he is also passionate about inspiring and motivating others to be active no matter their age.
Below, Charlie talks about competing in the 2023 National Senior Games and shares advice for other seniors looking to stay active.
Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
How long have you been participating in this sport and how did you get started?
I have been playing tennis since 1985 after meeting my friend Charlie Kasper at Walker Park on Staten Island, New York. He taught me to play the sport, and after he passed as a heroic firefighter on 9/11, I dedicated all my matches to him.
Can you describe any challenges, health or otherwise, that you had to overcome in order to compete in the National Senior Games?
I have been fortunate that I don’t have many health challenges at this time, largely due to my consistent and disciplined fitness routine. The only challenge I have is getting more court time!
You were one of 28 athletes selected from the thousands competing at the 2023 National Senior Games for the national honor of being named a Humana Game Changer. Can you tell us more about this honor and what it means to you?
I am honored, blessed, and humbled with an attitude of deep gratitude to be recognized by an organization like Humana and use this platform to encourage and inspire others to “live their lives out loud” with focus, patience and discipline. It is an extraordinary recognition.
Why is living a healthy, active lifestyle important to you?
A healthy, active lifestyle is the foundation for positive thinking, emotional and spiritual strength, as well as focus and clarity.
What advice do you have for people wanting to be more active who feel like they don’t know where to start?
Just get started – however and wherever you can. Also, do some meditation, breath work, walking, etc., and write down everything you do in a journal every day. Trust me, it’s the key. And finally, stop scrolling on the internet and social media. You will be amazed by the time you give back to yourself.
Please tell us about your experience competing in the 2023 National Senior Games. What was the best part?
The absolute honor of receiving the Humana Game Changer award was the highlight of my experience, along with creating new friendships and relationships.
Congratulations, Charlie, on your athletic achievements and helping motivate other seniors to lead healthy, active lifestyles!
More about Humana: Since 2007, Humana has sponsored the National Senior Games and celebrated senior athletes with the NSGA. Specifically, Humana supports the National Senior Games’ mission to keep active adults healthy through education, fitness and sport.
