2023 Visalia Senior Games Ready to Begin

The City of Visalia Parks and Recreation Department is ready for the 2023 Visalia Senior Games to begin over the weekend of November 4-5. The games will be the first since the pandemic.

This year's games will offer competitions in pickleball and table tennis.

Registration closed on October 20, and competitions in archery and disc golf were cancelled due to low registration numbers, according to Eric Ferreira, recreation coordinator for the City of Visalia Parks & Recreation Department.

"(Registration) is less than anticipated but we did somewhat anticipate having fewer people," he said. "All over California, we're seeing a decrease in participation since the pandemic, even for the (larger senior games)."

Even so, some participants from out of the area are expected.

"I'm seeing quite a few registrations from outside the area," said Ferreira, who has noticed registrants with 661, 909 and 864 area codes.

But October is apparently not the best month for the games. Because of the weather, there are usually fewer participants in sports such as swimming and track in the fall.

Ferreira explained that securing locations and getting volunteers (such as lifeguards and race timers) is much easier in the spring.

"We wanted to get something together this year," he said. "We are projecting doing it again in spring 2024."

Participating the 2023 Games

Those interested in volunteering should call (559) 713-4365 or email recreation@visalia.city. No previous experience is required to sign up to volunteer.

Volunteers don't even have to be sports fans to sign up, but the minimum age to volunteer is 16. Volunteering for the Visalia Senior Games can fulfill school community service requirements.

Seniors interested in competing should visit http://www.liveand playvisalia.com for registration forms and rules for the events. Registration was closed on October 20, so those who register for the two sports will be put on a waiting list.

For more information about the 2023 Senior Games, call (559) 713-4365 or visit http://www.liveandplayvisalia.com.