Senior Center Pool Tournament Fun All Around

By Isaac White.

The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Senior Center recently held a senior pool tournament, attracting a significant number of attendees and creating an atmosphere full of happiness, excitement, and friendly competition. The event brought together about 20 seniors from the Akwesasne community for a day of billiards challenges, conversation, and camaraderie. The tournament was open to seniors aged 55 and older and has been taking place for approximately six months, with participation growing with each new iteration.

The Senior Center in Akwesasne plays a large role in the daily life for the local elderly population, offering various activities and events to keep them engaged and connected with their peers. The pool table, which has become the centerpiece of the center's billiards tournaments, was donated by another tribal program. Its addition has had a significant impact on the involvement of men in the center's events, according to Katie Boots Lazore, the activity coordinator.

Before the arrival of the pool table, Lazore faced challenges in encouraging male seniors to participate in the center's activities. However, since the introduction of the pool table, the situation has changed dramatically. She described the pool table as the "golden ticket" that has helped increase male participation in the center's events. Lazore works tirelessly to coordinate various other activities for the seniors, including exercise classes and shopping trips, ensuring a diverse range of events to cater to different interests.

The pool tournament itself was a day filled with excitement, as seniors gathered around the table to showcase their skills or simply enjoy the company of their peers. While some were content sipping coffee and chatting, others were determined to claim the championship title. The event saw a mix of near-missed shots and successful pocketed balls, with the overall ambience characterized by fun and enjoyment for all in attendance – including the reporter present at the event.

This series of pool tournaments at the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Senior Center highlights the importance of providing engaging activities for seniors, to maintain social connections, stay active, and enjoy a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

In today's fast-paced world, it is crucial to prioritize the needs of seniors and ensure they have access to resources and events that cater to their interests and abilities. The Senior Center in Akwesasne is a prime example of how communities can come together to create a nurturing and supportive environment for elders in the community. The success of their pool tournament serves as a testament to the benefits of fostering a sense of community among seniors.

Some of the participants and observers spoke with Indian Time about the pool tournament and the senior center.

Emily Tarbell, who lost a heartbreaker just prior to speaking with Indian Time said, "I'm here for the seniors pool tournament, which is held usually twice a month. I like to come because it's fun. I'm not good, I tend to lose a lot, but it's always fun to sit and visit and have fun."

Abe Gray spoke about the tournament, "I like the pool tournaments. I come here every time they have it."

Shortly after finishing a game Donnie White told Indian Time, "I come here for exercise and Mohawk Class. Have lunch with everyone. We have fun with the pool tournament."

Moving forward, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Senior Center will continue to work for the benefit of Akwesasne seniors. The center not only offer seniors the opportunity to socialize but also promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

The winner of the tournament was Peter Back Sr. who received a $30 Bears Den gift card. Dave Mitchell came in second place and won 4 lunch certificates for the Senior Center.

The pool tournament at the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Senior Center demonstrates the positive impact that such events can have on the lives of seniors, providing them with a sense of belonging, accomplishment, and enjoyment. By continuing to offer diverse activities and events tailored to their interests, the Senior Center will ensure the well-being of seniors and create an inclusive, supportive environment for all.