Oregon Senior Games Profile: Keith McConnell

Game on!

The Oregon Senior Games return to Corvallis this August. In anticipation of events to come 50plus met with participating athletes and volunteers. Their stories are fun and fascinating, and on this they all agree: “The games are a blast — for participants and spectators alike. See for yourself! Today, meet tennis player Keith McConnell.

As a teenager in Canada, Keith McConnell started knocking tennis balls around on a clay court. He came to love tennis and continued to play after coming to America, earning a doctorate and establishing a counseling practice in Cottage Grove.

“I participate in a variety of recreational endeavors and sports that I enjoy and that have tangible benefits for my health, fitness and quality of life,” he says.

At last year’s Oregon Senior Games, Keith enjoyed singles and mixed-doubles competitions. “Playing tennis is not just about winning, it’s about the competition,” he says. “Here the competition is low-key, and playing is a great way to stay active.”

RANDAL C. HILL