Matt and Kim Meister teamed up with family for a memorable round at the first-ever Golf Scramble at the National Senior Games.
When Matt and Kim Meister of Kearney, Nebraska, heard that the National Senior Games was adding a Golf Scramble event for the first time in 2025, they didn’t hesitate. “We were one of the first teams to sign up,” said Matt. “As soon as we saw that you didn’t have to qualify, we called up Ellie and John.” Ellie, Kim’s sister, and her husband John were the natural picks to round out their foursome. “They’re our all-time favorite golf partners,” the 61-year-old said.
Left to right: Matt Meister, Kim Meister, Ellie Plambeck, John Plambeck
This year marks Matt’s second time competing at the National Senior Games. He qualified in traditional golf again, but the new scramble format gave him a chance to bring more of his favorite people into the experience. Kim, 59, said she prefers scrambles because of the team dynamic: “I started golf later in life, so this has been a fun thing for me. When it gets too competitive, it doesn’t feel fun anymore. In a scramble, you can rely on other people when your shot isn’t the best.”
That trust is built into their game. Kim and Ellie typically go first, hitting “safe shots” and helping line up the putts. “I always putt first to show us the line,” Kim said with a smile.
For the Meisters, golf is about more than scores. They’ve made Tuesday night “golf date nights” during the summer and often take weekend trips to courses around Nebraska. “It’s time together. It’s a wonderful way to get away from everyone else and just spend time with the most beautiful woman in the world,” Matt said.
Matt credits much of his involvement in The Games to Kiane Davidson, his friend and the Nebraska Senior Games coordinator. “She works so hard. Our parks and rec department does amazing things, including helping get people to Nationals.” Matt is passionate about the growth of the program and admires the work Kiane has put into it. He wants to keep building the program, spreading the word and getting more people involved.
As Matt puts it, “Motion is lotion,” and staying active is key to enjoying life at any age. Sharing that movement with loved ones makes it all the more meaningful.
By: Gabi Mercurio
