Huntsman Highlight

By Cindy Messerly

The hitter spikes the ball between the block…and there’s a dive and a one-handed dig…the setter steps in and with a flick of the wrists puts a quick set behind his head…the first hitter through fakes…the second hitter…right on his back…spikes the ball…boom!!…right into the block…But the setter digs it…straight up…the same hitter jumps…too fast for the block…Boom…100 miles an hour straight down!!!…WOW!!!…What A Rally!

You might think you were listening to an Olympic volleyball match between the U.S. and Bulgaria. Well, as a matter of fact, you just might…here, this October, right in St. George. Only these games are different, special. To qualify for these games you may have played in the Olympics, but the key requirement is that you are at least 50 years old.

The Huntsman World Senior Games is held every year during the second and third weeks of October in St. George, Utah. Of the 18 sports that are hosted, volleyball claims to be one of the most exciting. Over 70 of the better teams from throughout the U.S. and numerous foreign countries vie for boasting rights (and medals) during a four day tournament, considered to be one of the top two in the Nation. Seasoned athletes compete at the highest levels, often creating sensational play, pitting skills against wile and, in these games, age against reason. Divisions for Men and Women are divided into 5 year increments, beginning at age 50 and going through 70 (some of the 80 year olds play down.)
Volleyball is a great spectator sport with continuous action that re2quires a combination of poetry, driving aggression and cat-like reflexes. Very few people ever watch a match and remain sitting, especially if they have hard-to-get seats. And for this year’s tournament there are still some court-side seats available. All one has to do in order to reserve such valuable space is volunteer.

Being part of the match is even better than watching it. The Huntsman Games is looking for volunteers who will act a scorekeepers for its volleyball Tournament. Enthusiasm and a willingness to get excited are the only qualifications. Training will be provided. Individuals, husband and wife teams and friends are welcome to participate.
So, if you like T-shirts, fresh fruit and having your socks knocked off during the third week of October, then consider this opportunity. To sign up or for additional information call Myron Hatch, (435) 656-3777.