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About UsThe New Orleans Silver Slammers represent a vibrant community of women aged 50 and above, united in our passion for basketball and wellness. We transcend being merely a basketball team to become a beacon of joy and companionship, actively combating the loneliness epidemic and fostering health and vitality among older women. Through basketball, core, balance, and strength training, we are committed to active living to mitigate age-related conditions and promote well-being. Proudly representing New Orleans and Louisiana on national stages, we embody the spirit and resilience of our community.
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Organization History: The Journey of the New Orleans Silver SlammersSince launching in spring 1992 with just four pioneering members, the New Orleans Silver Slammers have transformed from a modest ensemble into a formidable presence in senior women's basketball, now celebrated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our path, marked by unwavering dedication, has consistently brought us to the final 8 at the National Senior Games, yielding an impressive array of medals across age groups, including landmark golds for our 50's and 70's teams, and a recent bronze for our 55+ team, which includes a former Olympic athlete, in 2023. Representing New Orleans with pride, our team reflects a wide age range from 50 to 87 and welcomes members from many other states, creating a vibrant community united by competitive spirit and camaraderie. This inclusivity speaks to our mission's heart, especially considering our founder and many senior members were once barred from sports by pre-Title IX restrictions. Our 80's team, notably including our esteemed founding member, aims for gold in the 2025 National Games, a goal that represents both a personal and collective ambition. This pursuit of excellence on a national stage highlights not just our competitive spirit but the deep value we find in the journey — practices, camaraderie, and community give-back — that enriches our lives beyond the court. The Silver Slammers stand as more than a basketball team; we are a testament to active, engaged aging. Challenging societal norms that undervalue aging, especially for women in a culture obsessed with youth and beauty, we proudly declare our age. Our story inspires resilience, passion, and unity, aiming to welcome more women into our ranks and redefine athletic achievement at any age. In doing so, we offer a platform for women across the nation to celebrate their age and rediscover the empowerment that comes with active participation in sports and community.
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Mission StatementThe Silver Slammers are dedicated to promoting inclusivity, empowerment, senior health, and camaraderie among older women around the sport of basketball. Our mission is to provide a platform for older adult women of all races, orientations, and backgrounds to showcase their skills, maintain an active lifestyle, and combat social isolation. Established in New Orleans, we strive to celebrate diversity, promote women in sports, and create lasting connections that transcend the basketball court.
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Engagement & ExpansionFeatured in over 50 articles and TV appearances, we're dedicated to expanding our community and fostering active, engaged lifestyles for aging adults. We are committed to making a meaningful impact, donating to women's shelters and volunteering at high school sporting events. Continually exploring new ways to support the health of senior women and promote women in sports, we strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging active participation and showcasing the importance of women's roles in sports and community health.
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Join UsJoining the Silver Slammers represents more than just participating in a sport; it signifies embracing the best aspects of turning 50 for a woman. It's about becoming part of a supportive, vibrant community that values health, wellness, and mutual support, making it one of the most rewarding experiences a woman can have at this stage of life.
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How Games Are PlayedGames are played in a 3-on-3 (half court) format, using NSGA and NCAA women’s basketball rules. They are 30 minutes running time in length (two 15 minutes halves).
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How Practices Are ConductedPractices include conditioning exercises, drills in shooting, passing, ball handling, play making, and game settings. Injuries and sore muscles are minimized by conditioning new players gradually, and by taking players in and out of scrimmages based on appearance of fatigue or by their request. All players should proceed at their own pace and are encouraged to request a rest before they become too fatigued. We also recommend appropriate footwear, which will help prevent ankle injury, one of the leading causes of injury in women’s basketball.
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Membership Benefits and ContributionYour membership dues support essential expenses, including tournament fees, coach's travel, and initiatives promoting health and well-being. As a member, you'll receive benefits such as a Silver Slammer uniform, practice sessions, access to gatherings, our quarterly newsletter, and future opportunities for growth. Your contribution is invaluable to our journey towards health and community. We're grateful for your support and excited to have you as part of our Silver Slammer family.
Together, we're not just playing basketball; we're building a legacy of health, friendship, and empowerment for senior women in New Orleans and beyond.
Featured Slammer
Lorraine Rizutto

Introducing Lorraine Rizutto: The Trailblazing Founder of Silver Slammers
At the 30th Silver Slammers Anniversary Party on December 2, 2023, Lorraine Rizutto
was honored with the prestigious Founders Award for her pivotal role in igniting the
Silver Slammers legacy.
Lorraine's journey began in the spring of 1992, when a casual
conversation in a hot tub at Elmwood Fitness Center sparked the idea of forming a basketball team.
Alongside Gail Compagno, Carolyn Schuler, and Shirley Johnson, Lorraine seized the opportunity to create something extraordinary. Their endeavor was
not just about basketball—it was a celebration of camaraderie and empowerment, inspired by the spirit of Title IX and its commitment to gender equality in sports.
With none of the ladies having played basketball since high school, they embarked on a
remarkable journey that laid the foundation for Silver Slammers.
As the team flourished,
it soon split into two distinct entities in 1992: a 55+ team and a 60+ team, reflecting the
diverse range of talents and passions within the Silver Slammers community.
Today, Lorraine stands as the last remaining original member, a testament to her unwavering
dedication and pioneering spirit.
Lorraine's remarkable story embodies the essence of Silver Slammers—a testament to
friendship, empowerment, and the transformative power of sport.
Her vision continues to inspire generations of women to embrace the joy of play and rewrite the rules of aging with grace and vitality, carrying forward the legacy of Title IX into a new era of athletic achievement and inclusion.
Together, we can combat loneliness, celebrate life at every stage, and enjoy the benefits of an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Get ready to unleash your inner champion and embark on a journey towards vitality, meaningful connections, and a greater sense of purpose.

We bring together individuals from every decade between the lively 50s to the seasoned 90s.
Unlock your potential and embark on an unforgettable journey towards vitality!
Join us in our mission to promote a vibrant and connected community while embracing the joy of friendly competition.
Board Members
Aja Sanzone, MD
President
Cheryl Taylor
Vice President
Gayle Calato
Treasurer
Maria Stephenson, Esq.
Secretary
Phyllis Scarsone
Board Member
Ann Hassenboehler
Board Member
Bridget Bane, Esq.
Board Member