In a city known for its sunny skies, beach culture, and boundless energy, it should come as no surprise that some of San Diego’s most inspiring athletes are also some of its most seasoned.
Meet the fierce, fearless women of the San Diego Senior Women’s Basketball Association—a nonprofit team of ten women, all over the age of 60, who are setting their sights on something big: representing the U.S. at the 17th World MaxiBasketball Championship in Ticino, Switzerland this summer.
Their story is about basketball, yes—but it’s also about friendship, resilience, and rewriting the playbook for what life can look like after 60.
More Than a Game
The team is made up of women from all corners of San Diego County—some retired, others navigating fixed incomes, all bonded by a love of the sport and a commitment to community. They practice twice a week, hustle up and down the court, and play with a passion that rivals athletes half their age.
“I’m 66 years young,” says Team Captain Cyrce Mellor.
“When you’re on the court, you are 20 again. Your spirit is alive again.”
They’ll be competing against 31 other international teams—but they’re the only U.S. female team in their age bracket, making their journey as symbolic as it is athletic.
Representing San Diego—and So Much More
If they make it to Switzerland, they’ll be carrying more than basketballs in their luggage. They’ll be representing the United States, the city of San Diego, and every woman who’s ever wondered if it’s too late to chase a dream.
Sue Gerzabek, who’s leading the fundraising efforts, calls it,
“A whole other layer of joy at this chapter in our lives.”
And for many of the team members, this experience means more than just international travel—it’s personal.
Martha Kimbrell joined the team after losing her husband.
“We had dreams of traveling and doing different things… once I lost him, it was like, ‘what do I do?’”
The team became her answer—a community, a purpose, and a place where she could laugh again, compete again, and find new dreams to chase.
A Community That Listens—and Understands
These women have lived full lives. They’ve raised children, supported families, and worked careers. Now, they’re supporting one another.
“Most of us have been mothers, and we are grandmothers,” Mellor says. “Now I have friends who listen, who understand me, and who have been through life.”
The team has become more than just a group of athletes. It’s a safe landing place—a space where grief, joy, and strength are shared
equally.
How You Can Help
The team has launched a GoFundMe with a goal of raising $20,000 to help cover travel
and competition costs. With airfare, lodging, and tournament fees stacking up, they’re hoping the San Diego community (and beyond) will step up and support this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a proud San Diegan, or just someone who believes in second chances and new beginnings—this is your chance to be part of something remarkable.
Why It Matters
These women prove that age is no limit to greatness. In fact, it might just be the secret weapon.
As they prepare to represent the U.S. on an international stage, they remind us all that reinvention is always possible—and that the game is never over as long as your heart’s still in it.
So when these women step onto the court in Switzerland, they won’t just be playing for points. They’ll be playing for every woman who’s ever wanted one more shot.
