The 2017 Visalia Senior Games, the Central Valley's only senior games, will be held at various locations in Visalia on March 16-19 and 24-26.

Nearly 160 athletes are already registered for the 2017 games, and many more are expected to register before the March 3rd deadline.

Pickleball, softball and track & field are the most popular events so far, based on the number of athletes registered.

The youngest athlete registered is 51 years of age, the oldest is 84. Registrants are from as far north as Citrus Heights, and as far south as Oceanside.

"We are very excited to bring the Visalia Senior Games back to the Central Valley and to the City of Visalia," said Jeannie Greenwood, director of the City of Visalia Parks and Recreation Department. "We look forward to hosting hundreds of athletes from throughout the state."

The organizing committee needs a few more volunteers to assist with athletic events and socials. Volunteers are needed for: putting together athletes' welcome packets, the Texas Hold'Em Tournament and other social events, and with the competitions in archery, bowling, disc golf, golf, horseshoes, soccer, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, the 5K/10K Road Race, other track & field events, trap shoot, and swimming.

No previous experience is required to sign-up to volunteer. Volunteers don't even have to be sports fans to sign-up, but the minimum age to volunteer is 16. Volunteering for the Visalia Senior Games can fulfill school community service requirements.

Registration can be done in person at 345 N. Jacob St., Visalia or online. American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and checks are accepted.

For more information about competing or becoming a volunteer, visit http://www.visaliaseniorgames.com, or contact the Visalia Parks and Recreation Department at (559) 713-4395 or recreation@visalia.city. The website has a registration form, rules for each event, and photos and results from the 2015 Visalia Senior Games.

Those interested in volunteering can also call Laurissa Roggenkamp, volunteer coordinator, at (559) 713-4365.