Last Updated on June 26, 2025
Athletes are honing their skills, tightening their laces, and finalizing their strategies.
In just over three weeks, the 2025 National Senior Games will kick off in Des Moines, Iowa, running from July 24–Aug. 4. About 12,000 athletes aged 50 and up are set to come together once again for the biennial Olympic-style celebration of lifelong fitness and mental fortitude.
Now in its 10th year as presenting sponsor, Humana continues its longstanding commitment to celebrating the power of movement, purpose and connection at the Games. And, we’re excited to highlight one of the Games’ most cherished traditions: honoring this year’s class of Humana Game Changers.
Since its launch in 2013, the Game Changer program has recognized more than 100 senior athletes whose personal stories of perseverance, transformation and passion for wellness reflect the very best of what aging can look like.
The 10 inspiring athletes making up the 2025 class represent a range of sports, from pickleball and table tennis to track and basketball, all united by an embodiment of healthy aging and the enduring impact of staying active, mentally and physically.
Meet the 2025 Humana Game Changers
Madelaine “Tiny” Cazel, 87 – Track and Field
The Villages, Florida
A National Senior Games veteran since 2003, Tiny competes in sprints, long jump, shot put and more. She helped pioneer women’s sports in her community and continues to train weekly with unmatched energy. Her motto: stay active, stay curious and surround yourself with support.
Pamela DeLoatch, 62 – Pickleball
Apex, North Carolina
A writer and lifelong learner, Pamela discovered pickleball by chance and now competes in leagues and tournaments. She founded “Black Girl Magic Pickleball” to create inclusive spaces for Black women to play and connect. Pamela balances her physical training with crochet, travel and meaningful conversations that keep her mind and spirit engaged.
Dilip Desai, 83 – Table Tennis
Sugar Land, Texas
A structural engineer turned table tennis enthusiast, Dilip began competing in his 70s and has since become a fixture at the National Senior Games. A prostate cancer survivor managing osteoarthritis, he credits his success to “mind over matter” and lives by the principles of determination, dedication and discipline. Off the court, he stays sharp through yoga, Bollywood dancing and mentoring greater Houston’s youth.
Ellen Demsky, 84 – Road Race, Track and Field, Power Walk, Triathlon
Tarzana, California
Ellen began running at 60 and has since completed more than 50 marathons – including four Boston Marathons and races on every continent. She now teaches courses on dementia prevention and iPhone photography at UCLA, blending physical and cognitive wellness. Her passion for movement and learning continues to inspire runners of all ages.
Gail Eppley, 86 – 3-on-3 Basketball
Charlotte, North Carolina
A lifelong basketball player and coach, Gail now competes in 3×3 basketball while staying active with swimming, pickleball and yardwork. Despite multiple joint replacements, she remains fiercely competitive and mentally sharp through puzzles and games. With 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, Gail is a matriarch of movement and motivation.
Jeremiah Hollis Jr., 71 – Pickleball
Redford, Michigan
A triple bypass survivor and Air Force veteran, Jeremiah found new purpose in pickleball after major surgeries. He’s now a decorated competitor and advocate for heart health and active aging, especially within the Black community. Off the court, he’s a golfer, puzzle-solver and community leader who believes in lighting the fire within others.
James “Jim” Hutchinson, 78 – Track and Field
Louisville, Kentucky
Inspired by a family legacy of runners, Jim has competed in track since childhood and continues to race despite past injuries. A retired entrepreneur and corporate leader, he volunteers to help community members with tax returns and keeps his mind sharp with Sudoku. After missing the 2023 Games due to injury, he’s making a strong comeback in 2025.
Denise Lawson, 59 – Track and Field
Springfield, Virginia
A lifelong runner and animal advocate, Denise returned to competitive track in her 50s after overcoming multiple injuries and a cardiac procedure. She trains alongside her retired sled dogs, whose energy and resilience inspire her every stride. Denise’s story is a testament to joyful movement, second chances and the healing power of staying active.
Joni Neidigh, 66 – Road Race
orange park, florida
A psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, Joni began running in the 1980s and returned after a long hiatus to reclaim her health and honor her late brother. She’s lost 27 pounds, gained strength and now helps others through sports hypnotherapy and public speaking. Joni challenges aging stereotypes and empowers others to find joy in movement.
John White, 74 – Triathlon
Milwaukee, wisconsin
A former professional football hopeful turned triathlete, John has completed more than 115 triathlons and 275 road races. He’s a Wisconsin Senior Olympics Hall of Famer, educator and former NSGA board member who has dedicated his life to promoting fitness and inclusion. With his wife Mary, he travels the country racing and cheering on both the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers.
To read more about the Class of 2025 and see all 113 Humana Game Changers through the years, visit NSGA.com/HumanaGameChangers .
