Retired UNC Professor Spreads Joy of Fitness to Local Seniors

Lee Schimmelfing, 73, champions the Orange County Senior Games and an active lifestyle for adults 50-plus.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Lee Schimmelfing, a retired UNC professor and corporate fitness expert, is a passionate advocate for senior health and fitness. Now 73 years old, Schimmelfing participates in and promotes the Orange County Senior Games, which offers athletic competitions, artistic events, and social activities for adults aged 50 and over. Schimmelfing, nicknamed the "Hodag" by his friends, has competed in events like badminton, bocce, and basketball, and he encourages others to get involved for the benefits of physical activity and community engagement.

Why it matters

As people age, it can be easy to become isolated and less physically active. The Orange County Senior Games provide an opportunity for older adults to stay fit, make new friends, and enjoy friendly competition. Schimmelfing's advocacy helps raise awareness of these valuable programs and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle in the senior years.

The details

Schimmelfing, who earned his master's degree in exercise physiology from UNC, had a long career in corporate fitness management before transitioning to teaching at UNC for 21 years. After discovering the Senior Games around age 60, he became increasingly involved as a participant and ambassador, promoting the games and encouraging more seniors to get involved. Schimmelfing competes in a variety of events, from table tennis and cycling to his favorites, bocce and badminton, where he has won gold medals.

  • Schimmelfing discovered the Senior Games just after turning 60 years old.
  • He has been an active participant and ambassador for the Orange County Senior Games for the past 13 years, since around 2013.

The players

Lee Schimmelfing

A 73-year-old retired UNC professor, corporate fitness expert, and avid advocate for senior health and fitness who participates in and promotes the Orange County Senior Games.

Orange County Senior Games

A year-round health promotion program for adults ages 50-plus that includes athletic competitions, artistic events, and social activities.

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What they’re saying

“I think about it this way: we don't stop playing games because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing games. If you're playing games and having fun, you don't even feel as old as you really are.”

— Lee Schimmelfing (The Local Reporter)

What’s next

The Orange County Senior Games will hold their kickoff event on Thursday, April 16, followed by additional competition dates. Interested seniors aged 50 and over can register at the Senior Games website to participate in athletic, artistic, and social events.

The takeaway

Schimmelfing's story demonstrates the powerful impact that staying active and engaged can have on older adults. By promoting the Orange County Senior Games, he is helping to combat isolation and improve the health and well-being of the local senior community.