A small community in Cherokee, North Carolina has defied its size to send a large and competitive delegation to the National Senior Games, including over 40 Cornhole players!
The 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana has brought together thousands of athletes from across the country. However, a small town in North Carolina is making an outsized impact.
Cherokee, a community within the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) reservation with a population of just under 2,000, sent one of the largest contingents of athletes from one city to the National Senior Games this year. This strong showing is a result of the tribe’s commitment to honoring their elders by providing the resources and support necessary to pursue an active lifestyle.
Kamiyo Lanning, Recreation Manager for the tribe, explained that the strong connection to the games is rooted in their culture. “We want to support and make sure that our elders have every opportunity for living a healthy lifestyle,” she said. The tribe covers travel expenses and registration fees for their athletes.
The enthusiasm around the EBCI delegation is particularly centered on Cornhole competition. Kamiyo noted that this year’s large cornhole roster was a direct result of Hurricane Helene, which prevented the team from traveling to the North Carolina Senior Games. To ensure their elders still had an opportunity to compete, the tribe brought them to the national competition instead.
Among the EBCI athletes are husband-and-wife duo Bernice and Lyman Clayton. For them, The Games are more than just a tournament, they’re a way to stay healthy and connected. “It’s a good exercise for us seniors,” Bernice explains. “It makes us look forward to the next year and trying to keep in good health for ourselves.”
“This is something we do on and off all year long,” says Lyman. “It kind of keeps us off the rocking chair back home.”
The EBCI team’s participation also serves as a powerful message. “We view the Senior Games as a good example for younger people,” Bernice said. “No matter what your limitations are, get up and keep moving. And look at us.”
The community’s efforts have been met with an equally welcoming spirit from the event itself. Kamiyo noted the elders “always feel welcome” at The Games and the tribe appreciates “all the support and everything that has been provided to us.”
By: Danielle Brown
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