Corey Loyd
The SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association (SPA) includes a wide range of members, but one standout group is the Octogenarians—those aged 80 to 89—who continue to impress both on and off the court. These remarkable players bring experience, tenacity, and sharp skills to every match, playing four to five times a week around golf games and other activities.
Whether in drop-ins, round-robins, or casual games, they consistently surprise opponents with their court awareness, quick hands, and well-placed shots. They call it getting “schooled,” and it happens often. Many have competed in tournaments but now enjoy the camaraderie and challenge of social play, maintaining ratings from Club 3.0 to IPTPA 3.5 and even Club 4.0—above average among SPA’s 700-plus members.
This incredible group includes Don Burkhead, Don Loranger, Dotti McKee, Aaron Plump, Harry Rosenbleet (Member No. 79 and the group’s longest-standing member), Jerry Savage, Bill Staufenberg, Gary Stithem (the highest rated), Barbara Sullenger, Ruth Thoren, Jim and Sue Wanken, and Bill Walker.
They are an inspiration to the entire SPA community. Not a player yet? Visit the Robson Pickleball Center. You’ll see what passion, spirit, and fun looks like at any age.
SPA Spotlight: Harry “Hurricane” Rosenbleet
Harry Rosenbleet, SPA Member No. 79, has been a vital part of the SaddleBrooke Pickleball community since 2008. At 88 years old, Harry’s love for the sport and his commitment to an active lifestyle continue to inspire.
Harry grew up playing basketball as a freshman/JV and tennis in high school. His pickleball journey began right here in SaddleBrooke nearly two decades ago, shortly after moving to the community.
Playing four or five times a week, Harry is both a social and competitive player. He’s participated in tournaments, earning a 3.5 IPTPA rating, and has been active in round robins, ladders, drop-ins, and more recently in the King/Queen of the Court for 3.25-3.75 rated players. He’s also a member of the groups Blazing Paddles and Daily Dinkers.
His pre-game routine includes stretching with resistance bands and using light weights. Post-game, it’s a shower and some light recovery stretching. While he once worked out at the gym, he now keeps up his fitness at home.
Harry owns 15 paddles—“not as many as some,” he jokes—and doesn’t plan on adding more. His nickname “Hurricane” comes not from his playing style or the weather, but from his days in Miami mentoring kids in “Little Haiti” and taking them to University of Miami football games.
His favorite pickleball memories? Competing with—and sometimes beating—players 20 years his junior.
Thank you, Hurricane Harry, for showing us what longevity in the sport truly looks like!