Playing on the worlds biggest stage is no small feat, but what about when you are just weeks away from turning 71 years old?

“As a small guy, to be able to have this kind of acknowledgement. As a young man, I always looked for it, but now I’m able to, with my ability, be able to show myself that I can do these things. So, you know, I don’t have to tell people I’m good or anything like that. I can show that I have a high skill level.”

Lou Campbell certainly has the skill level; the soon to be 71 year old is headed to his second U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, which is the worlds biggest tournament for the sport.

Campbell’s dedication is unparalleled, practicing 2-5 hours a week for six days a week. It’s not the physicality that keeps Campbell sharp on the court though.

“For a long time, it was an old person’s game,” said Campbell. “Younger people are seeing how fast it can go. It’s not just for the old people anymore. You can hit the ball harder. The thinking game is obviously for an older crowd, but it’s so fun to come out here and hit the ball hard.”

It’s a sport that’s rewarding – and addictive – for the mind, and for self confidence.

“There’s a lot of people who are playing now who are never able to win anything in their life. It’s more than just coming out here and hitting the ball. It’s going home and looking in the mirror and going, ‘that was pretty good. I had a great shot.'”

Campbell’s training has him poised for a strong showing at the Open, but the beauty of the sport to him is that anyone can pick up a paddle and be just as good.