70-Year-Old Duluth Athlete Lou Campbell Aims for Gold at US Open Pickleball Championship After Overcoming Injury
Duluth Athlete Defies Odds in Quest for Pickleball Glory
DULUTH, Minn. – At 70 years old, Lou Campbell is a testament to resilience and determination, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passions. After clinching a silver medal at last year’s US Open Pickleball Championship, Campbell is back in Naples, Florida, ready to chase the elusive gold.
Just a year ago, Campbell faced a daunting diagnosis: knee replacement surgery loomed, threatening to end his athletic pursuits. But true to his spirit, he defied expectations. “Three months later, I was on the pickleball court playing, and I thought, ‘Oh, this sport is so easy, it’s ridiculous,’” Campbell recalled with a smile.
Since that pivotal moment, Campbell has been a regular on the courts of the Duluth Indoor Sports Center (DISC), honing his skills and sharing his passion for the game. “This morning we did two hours of drilling,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of technique, especially in singles play.
Despite his hopes for gold this year, Campbell faced challenges due to an injury that hampered his preparation. “Last year, I came back with a silver medal. This year, I came back with my tail between my legs,” he admitted, after finishing with a 1-2 record at the tournament. However, his spirit remains unbroken, as he continues to refine his skills alongside new friends like fellow pickleball enthusiast Randy Orr.
Orr, who discovered the sport post-retirement, was inspired by Campbell’s dedication. “I was like, ‘Wow, this guy looks like he can kind of play,’” Orr said, laughing. Their camaraderie on the court is palpable, with both players enjoying the workout and the friendships forged through the game.
Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity, recognized as the fastest-growing sport in the nation by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association. For Campbell, this growth means more competition and the need for continuous improvement. “It’s evolving and becoming faster,” he noted, acknowledging the influx of younger players into the sport.
Yet for Campbell and Orr, pickleball is more than just competition; it’s about community and fitness. “I want it to be a good workout, and I want to have camaraderie with the people I play with,” Orr said, encapsulating the spirit of the game.
With numerous indoor and outdoor courts available in the Duluth area, pickleball enthusiasts can easily join in on the fun. For those interested in playing, the current “open play” schedule at DISC can be found here.
As Lou Campbell continues his journey, he remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that with focus and determination, anything is possible—no matter your age.
