What Makes the Games Great? It’s the People

Randal C. Hill

50plus Magazine

If you’ll be attending the Oregon Senior Games in Corvallis this August, chances are you’ll see Jill and Steve Schuster volunteering, competing, and generally having a blast.

Athletics has always been a part of their lives.

While not involved in team sports in high school, when not hitting the books, Jill was practicing or performing ballet. In college she became part of a synchronized swim team that performed “water ballets.” Later, she maintained her exercise regimen through aerobics and CrossFit.

Then came COVID, and her gym shut down. What to do? Determined to continue exercising — lifting barbells was her favorite activity — she connected with a local personal trainer. Eventually she joined USA Weightlifters (USAW), where she found enjoyment and success. “My proudest moment,” Jill declares, “was when I stood on a podium to receive an athletic medal — at age 62.”

Jill’s husband Steve originally ran cross country in high school. He says, “I did well in competition, but I didn’t enjoy it, so I switched to track and field events. I especially enjoyed the high jump. Three years ago, I saw a flyer for the Oregon Senior Games, and it sounded like fun. I hadn’t high-jumped since high school, but I decided to give that a try — and I won the gold! After that, I was hooked! Jill was a good role model, and she kept me motivated to go to the gym on a regular basis.”

Jill says, “As a competitive Masters Weightlifter, my successes and challenges (the occasional injury) in that arena inspired Steve to try high-jumping again. Getting back to his previous sport has been an exciting journey — from gold at the OSG to the opportunity to participate in St. George at the World Games with previous Olympic athletes. What a thrill!”

For years, this dynamic duo has been a part of the OSG, with Steve participating as an athlete and Jill as a volunteer. This August, you’ll find Jill helping at swim meets, as well as cheering on Steve in his track and field endeavors.

As volunteers, helpful folks do everything from distributing snacks and bottled water to handing out coupons for local businesses or visitor experiences.

“We enjoy the interaction with the athletes and work hard to make sure the participants feel welcome and valued,” says Jill. “We always want to help make the games successful.”

Thank you, Schusters. You are appreciated!