USTA Missouri Valley competitors ready to make their mark at National Senior Games

The 2025 National Senior Games—the world’s largest multisport championship event for adults 50 and older—are about to begin within USTA Missouri Valley in Des Moines, Iowa.

From July 24 to Aug. 4, some of the country's top senior athletes will compete in the 30-plus individual and team sports offered at the national competition. That includes tennis, with singles, doubles and mixed doubles divisions available for players.

Get to know some of the inspiring senior tennis players from across USTA Missouri Valley who are preparing to participate in the National Senior Games.

⭐ Rick Ewald is trading forecasts for forehands at this summer's National Senior Games. The retired meteorologist from Ankeny, Iowa has played tennis the last 50 years and will make the short drive to Des Moines to compete this year. Check out Ewald's story here.

⭐ Longtime tennis coach Duane Pomeroy has played in a dozen USTA National Championship tournaments. The Topeka High School tennis head coach for the past 31 years is looking forward to participating in his first-ever National Senior Games. Read more here.

⭐ Peg Schlacks, 74, isn't chasing a medal at the National Senior Games. The reigning USTA Missouri Valley Adult Player of the Year (3.5 & Below) wants to be a learner and encourager during her stay in Des Moines. Read more here.

⭐ USTA Nebraska's Doreen Sheen found a vibrant tennis community when she picked up the sport eight years ago. The Kearney resident is excited to meet players from across the U.S. when she competes in her first National Senior Games. View Sheen's story here.

⭐ Sharon Taysi brings grit and wit to the court as she gears up for her fourth appearance in the National Senior Games. Taysi, a USTA St. Louis standout, is excited to again team up with doubles partner Judy Wagner as they shoot for a medal together. Read Taysi's story by clicking here.

⭐ At 91 years old and with 93 grandkids, Oklahoma's ageless ace, Orion Whitney, continues to compete while cultivating a legacy of faith and family. Learn more about Whitney's global tennis journey by clicking here.

Learn more about the 2025 National Senior Games taking place within USTA Missouri Valley by clicking here.