Drabik, who has driven a bus in a neighboring Illinois community for 35 years, said he has played handball for many years, "even before it was popular," and considers it a good way to stay in shape, since his job doesn't involve much exercise.
With an impish grin, Drabik admitted that he might have fooled a few of his six tourney opponents, all of whom were in their 20's and 30's, who may have considered him an easy mark because of his age.
Instead, Drabik, who resides at 16619 Morse St., disposed of the competition one after another, finally defeating Tom Paliga in two straight games for the title. Drabik received a tall trophy, and the admiration of his opposition, for his efforts.
A member of the staff at the health center noted that it was doubly unusual for a senior citizen to excel in handball, which is considered a faster sport requiring more running than racquetball, which was also included in the recent tourney.
As for Drabik, he's ready for another match, but he's willing to give the youngsters a rest before they have to take on "the old master" again.
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