Nebraska Senior Games

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Nebraska Senior Games The most important thing in the Nebraska Senior Games is not to win but to take part, just as the mos

The Nebraska Senior Games is the qualifying event for the biennial National Senior Games. The Nebraska Senior Games have been conducted in Kearney since 1989. The City of Kearney has partnered with the Kearney Visitor Bureau to work together to coordinate the Games. The Games are "open," meaning people from out of state may compete. Athletes of all abilities are encouraged to participate in over 15 sports which include 55 plus events. Age categories begin at 50, and increase in five year increments (for example 50-54, 55-59, etc). Competition is divided into male and female divisions, as well as mixed competition in several doubles events.

2026 Female Athlete of the Year - Jane WassermanJane Wasserman has been a proud participant in the Nebraska Senior Games...
08/26/2026

2026 Female Athlete of the Year - Jane Wasserman

Jane Wasserman has been a proud participant in the Nebraska Senior Games since 2016 and is celebrating her 10th year of competition.
Jane competes in the 50-meter sprint and table tennis, and she enjoys both events so much that she can't choose a favorite. Table tennis is the sport she has participated in the most throughout her time at the Games.
When asked what keeps her coming back each year, Jane's answer was simple: everything. She enjoys the competition, appreciates the kindness and support of her fellow participants, and values the opportunity to meet new people. For Jane, the Nebraska Senior Games have been a truly rewarding experience.
Jane has many memorable moments from the Games. One of her favorites was last year when she and her table tennis partner, David, won three matches in a row.
Another highlight was competing in the 50-meter sprint for the very first time.
Despite never having participated in track before, she won her race. That accomplishment left her feeling proud and gave her the confidence to realize she was capable of more than she had imagined.
Outside of the Nebraska Senior Games, Jane plays table tennis twice a week and stays active through community activities she greatly enjoys.
Jane's theory is that everyone has something to teach us. She believes we should take the time to listen to one another because no one knows everything a perspective that reflects her curiosity, humility, and appreciation for others.

2026 Male Athlete of the Year - Terry MedjoTerry Medjo has been a dedicated competitor in the Nebraska Senior Games sinc...
08/26/2026

2026 Male Athlete of the Year - Terry Medjo

Terry Medjo has been a dedicated competitor in the Nebraska Senior Games since 2015 and is celebrating his 12th year of participation.
This year, Terry is competing in golf, swimming, and track and field. While disc golf was once his favorite event, an injury led him to shift his focus to swimming, which has since become his favorite competition.
When asked about his most memorable Nebraska Senior Games experience, Terry simply said that he loves participating. That response speaks to his appreciation for the friendships he's made, a welcoming atmosphere, and opportunity to compete.
Beyond the Nebraska Senior Games, Terry devoted nearly 50 years to teaching and coaching. He is also a commercial fisherman, reflecting a lifetime of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

2026 Sport Coordinator of the Year - Justin DiestlerJustin Diestler is someone who truly represents what the Senior Game...
08/26/2026

2026 Sport Coordinator of the Year - Justin Diestler

Justin Diestler is someone who truly represents what the Senior Games are all about: dedication, community, friendship, and a love for seeing others succeed.

For at least 30 years, Justin has given his time and energy to the Senior Games. Three decades is an incredible amount of time to give to something, but when you ask Justin why he keeps coming back year after year, his answer is simple: the people.

Over the years, Justin has built countless relationships and friendships with the athletes. He has gotten to know them, cheered them on, celebrated their accomplishments, and become a familiar and valued part of their Senior Games experience. These relationships are what have kept him coming back all these years.

When asked about his most memorable moment, Justin says it happens every year. And that says a lot about what makes the Senior Games so special to him.

It’s watching everyone cheer each other on, seeing athletes celebrate one another’s successes.

Justin, thank you for all the time, energy, and heart you have given to the Senior Games. More importantly, thank you for the friendships you’ve built and for being someone who continues to show up and celebrate others.

It is truly our pleasure to recognize you as the Sports Coordinator of the Year.

08/17/2026

Athletes 50 and older competed in the Nebraska Senior Games during the first week of August, including an 81-year-old nun.

08/14/2026
What an incredible 5 days of competition to witness at the Nebraska Senior Games! With 614 athletes, from 21 states, we ...
08/13/2026

What an incredible 5 days of competition to witness at the Nebraska Senior Games! With 614 athletes, from 21 states, we made lots of new friends and created memories that will last forever! Congratulations to all the athletes!

We cannot wait to host you again next year!

2026 Nebraska Senior Games pt. 3
08/13/2026

2026 Nebraska Senior Games pt. 3

2026 Nebraska Senior Games pt. 2
08/13/2026

2026 Nebraska Senior Games pt. 2

08/13/2026
2026 NE Senior Games Results:Pickleball
08/10/2026

2026 NE Senior Games Results:

Pickleball

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Kearney, NE

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