Senior athletes take on water volleyball jamboree
On July 31, water volleyball teams from the East Central DeKalb Community and Helene S. Mills Senior Multipurpose Facility competed in an event designed to celebrate aging with energy and enthusiasm. More than 30 senior athletes took part in the Water Volleyball Jamboree Tournament at the Helene S. Mills facility in Atlanta. The day combined physical activity with social bonding, emphasizing the health benefits of water volleyball for older adults. The low-impact sport helps improve balance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness, making it a popular choice in metro Atlanta for active seniors. The event saw the formation of four teams — two women’s teams and two co-ed teams, with each center representing in all divisions.
From morning to afternoon, the tournament showcased the players' teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. Spectators lined the pool deck, cheering loudly as matches reached their peaks. The East Central DeKalb women’s team emerged victorious, securing the women’s division title. In the co-ed category, the Helene S. Mills team claimed the championship, ending a series of intense and closely played matches between the two senior centers. The East Central DeKalb Community and Senior Center, which opened in 2023, serves as a central hub for recreation and learning in eastern DeKalb County. With features like an indoor saltwater pool and a range of wellness and educational programs, the facility supports the well-being of older adults.
According to a news release, the center’s mission is to help seniors maintain active, healthy, and socially engaged lifestyles. Events like the jamboree are a key part of this mission. They foster a sense of community while promoting physical health. After the competition, participants from both centers came together to share meals and drinks, continuing the spirit of camaraderie. The tournament highlighted the growing appeal of water volleyball as a way to stay active and connected in later life, while also reinforcing the importance of fun and fitness among senior communities.