For most people, the phrase “Team USA” brings to mind Olympians or World Cup teams. This December, though, a group of Central Ohio seniors will be wearing the red, white, and blue for a Rocket League tournament.
The local gamers are preparing to compete against Senior Team Belgium during the 2026 Global Esports Games, taking place December 1-7 in Los Angeles as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Rocket League, a video game that’s basically soccer played with rocket-powered cars, is exactly as chaotic as it sounds. It’s also the game this Central Ohio team has been practicing every week at Game Arena in Columbus.
The players are part of the Health-e-Gamer Foundation’s LevelUpLand program, which combines competitive gaming with wellness, digital literacy, and social connection. Since launching, the program has engaged more than 2,500 older adults.
The final competition roster of six to ten players will be announced in August, but everyone in the program trains together.
Along with sharpening their Rocket League skills, participants receive coaching focused on physical fitness, cognitive health, nutrition, emotional wellness, and teamwork.
The program is built around the idea that gaming can be a tool for healthy aging. Beyond competition, participants are building technology skills, staying socially connected, and challenging outdated assumptions about who plays video games.
“We’re proud to support innovative programs that keep older adults active, connected and engaged,” said Chanda Wingo, director of the Franklin County Office on Aging. “Seeing these seniors represent our community, and our country, shows what’s possible when we invest in healthy aging.”
The initiative has also earned support from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the City of Columbus, both of which have backed the team’s preparation for international competition.
As December draws closer, organizers are looking for additional community and corporate sponsors to help cover travel, equipment, meals, software, and training expenses.
Hopefully, you’re all ready to cheer, because Columbus will have a hometown team to root for when the tournament begins in Los Angeles.
