Rayburn Pickleballers: “86 and Under” and Playing Like They’re Still Varsity
- Rita Shipp
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
LAKE SAM RAYBURN, TX — If you wander near the pickleball courts at Rayburn Country on any given morning, you’ll hear it long before you see it — the pop of paddles hitting a ball, bursts of laughter, and the kind of playful trash-talk usually reserved for teenagers on a basketball court.
Meet the Rayburn Pickleballers, a group of local players who don’t just show up to play — they show up with energy, attitude, and a competitive spark that refuses to age out. They proudly describe themselves as “ages 86 and under,” and based on the hustle happening on these courts, they mean it.
What began as a few friends looking for a fun way to stay active has evolved into a thriving community built around movement, humor, and connection. These players don’t care who wins the point — they care who can make everyone else laugh about it.
“Old age and treachery still beats youth and enthusiasm,” said one player between serves. “We might stretch a little longer and laugh a little louder, but we still show up to play.”
A ‘Yearbook-Style’ Photo Shoot — On the Court
On October 21, 2025, the group got together for what can only be described as a high school yearbook–style photo shoot, complete with playful poses, action shots, lineup photos, and enough personality to power a pep rally.
The pictures capture everything that makes this group special:
Focus and intensity during volleys
Big personalities during playful poses
Friendship and community in the group lineup shots
Photos taken October 21, 2025, during a Rayburn Pickleball play day at Rayburn Country.
The enthusiasm is unmistakable: these players aren’t just exercising — they’re creating memories.
More Than a Sport
Pickleball may be what brings them to the courts, but the real magic is the camaraderie.
They show up for movement — and stay for each other.
They stay active, stay laughing, and stay connected.
Because here, the score isn’t the point.
The point is that these players still love showing up to play.
They are living proof of something simple and powerful:
You don’t stop playing because you get old.
You get old because you stop playing.
Want to Join Them?
If you hear the laughter across the courts at Rayburn Country, don’t linger on the sidelines.
Walk up.
Ask to learn.
Grab a paddle.
They’ll make room.
Because being part of this group has never been about skill — it’s about showing up, moving your body, and having fun.
.png)
