Pickleball isn’t just new tricks for old dogs; it’s an athletic and engaging sport for all ages. Jeremiah Hollis found this out firsthand and is now a pickleball competitor at 71 years old.
But before making waves in the pickleball world, he underwent a triple bypass surgery, two knee replacements, and a hip replacement. It was during his recovery that he discovered pickleball, which has since become his passion.
Hollis is an Air Force veteran, a retired auto worker, and a lifelong athlete. After four years as a staff sergeant, he left the service and moved to Philadelphia, where his half-brother played for the Eagles. Hollis played recreational basketball alongside pro football Hall of Famer Reggie White and NBA Hall of Famer Julius Erving (also known as Dr. J). Now, he will compete in pickleball at the 2025 National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa.
The National Senior Games, also known as the Senior Olympics, is a biennial multi-sport event featuring over 20 different sports for individuals aged 50 and above. It is the largest qualified multi-sport event for seniors globally.
These events exemplify the benefits of competition, fitness, and active aging. Hollis has won 16 medals and is a leader in the senior and veteran communities. He is also among a rare few, one of only 10 out of some 12,000 nationwide, who have been named Humana Game Changers this year. Selection is defined by the athlete exemplifying the spirit of active aging and inspiring people of all ages to embrace lifelong health and wellness.
WATM: Why did you join the Air Force?
Hollis: I got into the Air Force by accident and was dating an Air Force ROTC cadet. I was debating what I wanted to do after college. I had been interning at General Motors as an engineer and thought about working for them. Then realized that was kind of boring. My girlfriend asked me, “Why don’t you come into the Air Force with me, and we can see the world?”
I enlisted and…it was one of the best decisions I ever made. I learned so many different things and was in the Military Airlift Command (MAC), and just proud to serve. My unit supported the transportation of equipment to Grenada during Operation Urgent Fury.
By the way, the young lady I dated, within one year of joining, I never saw her again.
WATM: What advice would you give to fellow vets for staying healthy?
Hollis: You don’t have to push yourself past your limits. Any physical activity is good for you. You just need to take the first step in finding something that is fun and comfortable for you. Even if it is just walking around the block, find. Find a friend to walk with. Just make sure to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. My message is simple: fitness for life. If you stay active physically and mentally, you’ll survive.
WATM: How did your service shape your mindset and recovery?
Hollis: It shaped my mindset because in the military, you never give up. You talk about mission and mission statements, and you learn how to manage stress. Having played sports as well, you just learn that this, too, shall pass. When I had injuries to my knees, my military training and sports experiences pushed me through recovery after surgery.
WATM: What is your workout regimen?
Hollis: I do an hour’s worth of stretching, I jump rope, punch, slice, and do dinking drills. It’s been two and a half years since I began playing this game after my triple bypass. When I started pickleball, I wore an Apple Watch, where my heart rate was going crazy. I investigated it, and the Apple Watch saved my life. Had I never questioned it, I would have never known my issues and within a month of playing pickleball, I had a heart attack. I love competing with people my age and seeing the same people compete year after year. Being a Humana Game Changer is a bonus. I feel truly blessed.
WATM: What does it mean to be a Humana Game Changer?
Hollis: I am honored to be selected as one of the 10 Game Changers. As part of the group, more than 100 athletes have been given this award since its inception. It’s terrific to be recognized for doing something that I love, and hopefully it inspires other seniors to get active.
The National Senior Games will be held in Des Moines, Iowa, from July 24 to August 4, 2025. Updates can be found on the @SeniorGames1 Facebook, Instagram, and the official National Senior Games website. The games will, unfortunately, not be televised or streamed.
