The Florida Villages Senior Games 2026 is here! An annual multi-sport festival designed for residents aged 50 and over, everyone is welcome to watch the competitions and support their fellow residents. It’s the most fun!
The Villages, a sprawling retirement community in Florida, thrives on a vibrant lifestyle and prioritizes health and wellness.
The 2026 Florida Villages Senior Games are scheduled for Friday, April 17, through Sunday, April 26, featuring over 30 sports and 2,000 participants.
Why Everyone Is Talking About the Florida Senior Games Pickleball Tournament Right Now—And the Championship Story You Didn’t See Coming!
The buzz around the Florida Senior Games Pickleball Tournament is real. Courts are packed, brackets were competitive…the level of play continues to rise year after year! For many, it’s one of the most exciting showcases of skill, strategy, and community in the sport.
Villages Senior Games Pickleball Champions
This year, womens doubles partner MaryAnn Bove and Nancy Rush took home the Gold in the Villages Senior Games Pickleball Mixed Doubles Championship on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
Also, Linda used the Friday Pickleball paddle and Maryann used her Engage Pickleball paddle during game play.
The Friday Pickleball Paddle is a popular choice. Over 100,000 customers think so! The Friday paddles surface grit are amazing, it feels as if the paddle catches the ball in mid-air. At 8.3 ounces it is light enough to play with for hours.
In addition, on Wednesday, April 23, 2026, Maryann Bove and her pickleball doubles partner, Jeff Homolka, powered their way to a Gold win at the Florida Villages Senior Games Pickleball Mixed Doubles Championship.
MaryAnn’s Fit: Light Blue Tank | Lucky In Love Pickleball Skirt| K-Swiss Hypercourt Express Sneakers
The Energy Behind the Florida Villages Senior Games 2026
If you’ve never experienced the Florida Senior Games, it’s not just another tournament—it’s a celebration of longevity, athleticism, and competitive spirit. Players come from across the state (and often beyond) bringing years of experience, refined skills, and a genuine love for the game.
Friends. This isn’t casual rec-center pickleball. These matches are strategic, fast-paced, and highly competitive. The margin between winning and losing is often razor-thin, which makes every point matter.
And that’s exactly why winning here means something.
Why This Story Resonates Beyond One Tournament
Pickleball has created a space where competition doesn’t have an expiration date. Players continue improving, competing, and setting new goals well into stages of life where many other sports slow down.
This tournament is proof of that.
Additionally, it’s also a reminder that progress doesn’t stop after a certain age, competitive drive can continue to grow, and winning feels just as meaningful—if not more so.
It’s not just about who won. It’s about what’s possible!
Florida Villages Senior Games 2026 – What It Takes to Compete at This Level
Moments like this don’t happen by accident. Behind every strong performance is preparation—both on and off the court.
While skill and experience are key, having the right gear can quietly elevate performance in a noticeable way. Confidence often comes from knowing your equipment supports your game, not limits it.
A few essentials that consistently stand out among competitive players:
- Control-focused paddles that allow for precise placement and soft touch at the net
- Supportive court shoes designed for lateral movement and stability
- Grip-enhancing accessories that improve consistency during long matches
- Massage Aids that helps with muscle recovery after pickeball games
If you’ve been considering upgrading your gear, this is exactly the level of play where those decisions start to matter!
The Florida Villages Senior Games 2026 Pickleball Tournament continues to grow for a reason. It brings together talented players, meaningful competition, and moments that stay with you long after the final point is played.
And a reminder that some of the most inspiring moments in sports don’t just come from watching—they come from being part of the story together.
A History of Friendly Competition – The Villages Senior Games Tradition
The Villages Senior Games boast a rich history dating back to 2002.
Organizers conceived the event to provide residents with a fun and accessible platform to stay active while competing against peers.
Over the years, the games have grown in popularity, attracting thousands of participants annually.
The Florida Sports Foundation sanctions The Villages Senior Games, boosting their legitimacy and prestige.
Winning performances at The Villages level can even qualify residents to compete at the state and national levels, offering a chance to showcase their skills on a broader stage.
Discover the Diverse Range of Sports Offered at The Villages Senior Games 2025
The spirit of The Villages Senior Games lies in inclusivity and offering a diverse range of activities for participants of all abilities.
The games encompass a wide variety of sports categorized as follows:
Individual Sports
You can find the following individual sports to partake in or be a fan for at The Villages, Florida.
First there is Track & Field Events (e.g., walking, running events, shot put, discus throw). Next there is swimming (various strokes and distances). In addition, there is Table Tennis (singles & doubles). Next up is Billiards & Pool (singles & doubles), of course there is Bocce Ball (singles & mixed doubles). Rounding out the individual sports are Shuffleboard (singles & mixed doubles), Horse Shoes and finally Air Gun.
Team Sports
The team sports include Pickleball (singles, doubles, and mixed doubles). Also, Basketball Shooting, and Sand Volleyball.
Moreover, beyond the listed offerings, The Villages Senior Games also occasionally feature demonstration events or exhibitions.
This allows residents to discover new sports and potentially find a new passion in their golden years.
Schedule and Registration Process
Typically during a week-long period in April, The Villages Senior Games unfolds.
Furthermore, exact dates may vary slightly from year to year, but residents can usually expect the games to be held sometime between mid-April and late April.
Here’s a breakdown of the schedule process
If you are interested in taking part of The Villages Florida Senior Games, first you must be a resident of The Villages. Here is the registration process.
Most important is the registration process. Registration typically opens several weeks before the games. Information about registration deadlines and procedures is readily available through various channels.
For example, you can find more information about this at The Villages Recreation Department Website. This official website provides detailed information about The Villages Senior Games, including registration forms and deadlines.
The Villages Senior Games Schedule
Also, The Villages Lifelong Learning College Newsletter can provide detailed information. This newsletter, distributed to residents, often includes announcements and registration details for The Villages Senior Games.
Additionally, residents can visit their local recreation center to pick up a registration packet and inquire about the games.
Finally, following the registration period, a finalized schedule outlining event times and locations is released.
In fact, This allows participants to plan their week and ensure they arrive at their designated venues on time. Moreover, the schedule can typically be found on the same platforms as the registration information.
Beyond Winning: The Spirit of Community at The Villages Senior Games
While competition is certainly an element of The Villages Senior Games, the true essence lies in fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among residents. For example, the games provide a platform for residents to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for staying active and healthy.
Moreover, the atmosphere is one of friendly competition and shared enthusiasm. For example, participants often cheer each other on, creating a supportive and encouraging environment. Also, the games also offer an opportunity for residents to make new friends, build lasting connections, and combat social isolation, a common concern for older adults.
Celebrating Achievements: Where to Find The Villages Senior Games Results
Officials compile the results after the games conclude and announce them through various channels.
First, The Villages Recreation Department Website. The official website typically posts the final results, often listing winners and placing for each event. Click here to view.
Next, The Villages Daily Sun Newspaper. This local newspaper often dedicates space to publishing results and event highlights. Click here to view.
Finally, The Villages Recreation Centers. Results might be displayed at bulletin boards within the recreation centers, allowing residents to easily access them.
Looking for other Florida Senior Games?
Here are more Pickleball Florida Senior Games 2025!
The 2025 Florida Senior Games offer a vibrant array of athletic competitions tailored for individuals aged 50 and above.
Organized by the Florida Sports Foundation, these events span various locations across the state, culminating in the State Championships in December.
Below is a comprehensive list of scheduled games, providing opportunities for seniors to engage in sportsmanship, fitness, and community.
🏅 2025 Florida Senior Games Schedule
January – April
- Good Life Games of Pinellas County
Dates: January 11 – April 22, 2025
Contact: Roger Cleworth – (813) 766-3936 | rogercleworth@gmail.com
Website: http://www.goodlifegames.com
February
- Gulf Coast Games for Life (Sarasota)
Date: February 8, 2025
Location: Selby Aquatic Center, Sarasota, FL
Contact: Rick Walker – (941) 586-7833 | rwalker@sarasotasharks.org
Note: Focused on swimming events for ages 50 and up
February – March
- Lee County Senior Games
Dates: January 24 – March 9, 2025
Registration Opens: October 21, 2024
Contact: David Castano – (239) 788-4894
Website: Lee County Senior Games
Events Include: Table Tennis, Archery, Pickleball, Basketball Shooting, Swimming, Tennis, Billiards
March
- Tallahassee Senior Games
Dates: February 26 – March 18, 2025
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Contact: Cindy Mead – (850) 891-3875
Website: Talgov Senior Games
Events Include: Archery, Bag Toss, Basketball, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Horseshoes, Pickleball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track & Field
April
- The Villages Senior Games
Dates: April 18 – 27, 2025
Location: The Villages, FL
Contact: Lisa Parkyn – (352) 753-1716 | lisa.parkyn@districtgov.org
Website: The Villages Senior Games
Events Include: Air Gun, Archery, Badminton, Bag Toss, Basketball 3-on-3, Basketball Shooting, Beach Tennis, Billiards, Bocce, Bowling, Clay Shooting, Golf, Horseshoes, Lawn Bowls, Petanque, Platform Tennis, Pickleball, Sand Volleyball, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Water Volleyball
September
- Pensacola Senior Games
Dates: September 5 – 19, 2025
Contact: Cheryl Fox – (850) 912-4056 | cfox@cityofpensacola.com
Events Include: Archery, Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Billiards, Bowling, Golf, Horseshoes, Pickleball, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball - Palm Coast & the Flagler Beaches Senior Games
Dates: September 12 – 24, 2025
Contact: Geena Catalano – (386) 986-2516 | GCatalano@palmcoastgov.com
Events Include: 5K Road Race, Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Golf, Horseshoes, Pickleball, Tennis - Gainesville Senior Games
Dates: September 19 – 28, 2025
Contact: Emily Stillwell – (352) 338-9300 | egrissom@gainesvillesportscommission.com
Website: Gainesville Sports Commission
Events Include: Archery, Cycling, Golf, Pickleball, Race Walk, Swimming, Table Tennis, Track and Field - Jacksonville Senior Games
Dates: September 26 – October 4, 2025
Contact: Stacy Sanders Amparan – (904) 255-5667 | stacys@coj.net
Events Include: Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Bridge, Cycling Time Trials, Golf, Line Dancing, Mah Jong, Pickleball, Race Walk, 5K Road Race, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field, Wii Bowling
October
- Charlotte County Fit For Life Senior Games
Dates: October 1 – 31, 2025
Contact: Joele Kirkpatrick – (941) 681-6050 | RecreationDivision@CharlotteCountyFl.gov
Events Include: Bag Toss, Basketball 3-on-3, Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Disc Golf, Golf, Pickleball, RC Sailing, Softball Hitting Derby, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field - Tampa Bay Active Life Games
Dates: October 6 – 17, 2025
Contact: Troy Stewart – (813) 344-8415 | stewartwt@hcflgov.net
Events Include: Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Billiards, Bowling, Darts, Golf, Horseshoes, Lawn Bowling, Pickleball, Race Walk, Shuffleboard, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field - Ormond Beach Senior Games
Dates: October 17 – 25, 2025
Contact: David Carter – (386) 676-3291 | srgamesob@gmail.com
Events Include: Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Golf, Pickleball, Powerlifting, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field - Martin County Senior Games
Dates: October 17 – 25, 2025
Contact: Kaitlyn Commack – (772) 288-5474 | mcseniorgames@martin.fl.us
Website: Martin County Senior Games
Events Include: Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Golf, Pickleball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field
November
- Village of Pinecrest Senior Games
Dates: November 3 – 7, 2025
Contact: Gloria Zoghbi – (305) 284-0900 | gzoghbi@pinecrest-fl.gov
Events Include: Badminton, Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Billiards, Bowling, Pickleball, Race Walk, Shuffleboard, Table Tennis, Tennis - Cutler Bay Senior Games
Dates: November 13 – 21, 2025
Contact: Paolo Perez – (786) 205-5427 | pperez@cutlerbay-fl.gov
Events Include: Basketball Shooting, Billiards, Bowling, Horseshoes, Pickleball, Race Walk, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field
December
- Florida Senior Games State Championships
- Dates: December 2025 (Exact dates and location to be determined)
Note: This event serves as the culmination of the Florida Senior Games series, bringing together top qualifiers from local games across the state
🏆 Participation and Qualification
Athletes must be 50 years of age or older by December 31, year end, to participate.
Many local games serve as qualifiers for the State Championships, with the top five finishers in each age group advancin.
For specific qualification details and event rules, participants should consult the official Florida Senior Games website or contact event organizers directly.
📣 Stay Informed
For the most current information, including registration details, event updates, and contact information, please visit the official Florida Senior Games website:
👉 Florida Senior Games Official Website
Engaging in the Florida Senior Games is an excellent opportunity for seniors to showcase their athletic abilities, foster community connections, and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to the games, there’s a place for everyone to participate and thrive!
For more about the Florida Senior Games, including history and 2025 Florida Senior Game schedules and locations click here.
Article Resources
- https://nsga.com/florida/
- https://www.districtgov.org/PdfUpload/SG%202024%20EXTERNAL%20Expanded%20Schedule.pdf
- http://www.FloridaSeniorGames.com
- https://www.thevillages.com/whatsnew/reimagining-retirement/20-years-of-senior-games
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