Jerry Schletzbaum has been an active Shasta Family YMCA member for 27 years, spending most of his time playing indoor basketball, always bringing along his lucky basketball, “Oscar”, named after his pet rooster from when he was a kid.
Jerry has been an athlete his whole life. He attended Kansas State University where participated in track and field. Jerry actually competed against Wilt Chamberlain, first noticing him when Will's “tall shadow “ came over him on the field one day.
Jerry joined the Shasta Family YMCA in his late 50’s with intention to get back in shape. During his first week he met three other men - Jerry, John and Sal - and they started a basketball team together. At one point, the three men competed in the Senior Olympics and won a bronze medal for placing 3rd.
Today, Jerry is still dedicated to his Tuesday and Thursday basketball team, bringing “Oscar” along to join in the pickup basketball games during open gym time.
Jerry is amazed at the variety of members, young and old, that come out to play basketball, but also to make use of all the Shasta Family YMCA has to offer. Jerry loves the connection, and seeing everyone smiling and having fun. The Y, in return, appreciate Jerry's time at the Y and sharing a bit of his wisdom and generous smile and heart.