Staying fit isn’t confined to working out in a fitness center. The Aiken Fillies is a diverse group of women ages 16 to 71 who get their reps in on the basketball court. Formed in 2022 by Ruth Siegfried and Darcy Armstrong, the Fillies practice weekly and compete in tournaments, some in conjunction with the National Senior Games Association. What started as a way to reconnect with a beloved sport and get some exercise has transformed into a sisterhood of care and support.
The Aiken Fillies are always recruiting. If you want to lace up your high tops, visit their Facebook page to connect.
Ruth Siegfried
Occupation: Founder and President – InVision Human Services in Pennsylvania (retiring 12/31/2024).
Basketball Experience: Played basketball and other sports pre-Title IX in high school and college. I later competed in the Pennsylvania Senior Olympics women's basketball team, including three National Senior Games, before taking a hiatus to focus on horse competitions.
Why You Play with the Fillies: This team provides unparalleled support and camaraderie. During recovery from a broken ankle, teammates assisted me with appointments, brought groceries and offered companionship, showing the strength of the community we’ve built.
Kim Coleman
Occupation: Retired Parks & Recreation Superintendent
Basketball Experience: Played high school basketball.
Why You Play with the Fillies: I initially joined because of my love of basketball and exercise, but I discovered a close-knit network of friends. The team participates in local events like MS walks, fundraisers for human trafficking and social gatherings to watch college basketball and WNBA games.
Beverly Quarles
Occupation: Accountant
Basketball Experience: Played varsity basketball for four years at Wardlaw Academy
Why You Play with the Fillies: For exercise and fellowship
Lisa Burch
Occupation: Physical Therapist
Basketball Experience: Played at Frewsburg Central High in Western New York
Why You Play with the Fillies: For fun, exercise, camaraderie and competition
Lara Anderson
Occupation: Real Estate Broker/Owner and Equestrian Facility Owner
Basketball Experience: Played throughout middle school, high school and junior college
Why You Play with the Fillies: I love the sport and value the welcoming and caring atmosphere of the team.
WO1 Mahyla Davis
Occupation: Warrant Officer, U.S. Army
Basketball Experience: Played in high school and at the unit level in the Army
Why You Play with the Fillies: Originally I joined for conditioning but developed a deep connection with the team. I now consider them family.
Ivory Edwards
Occupation: Underwriter
Basketball Experience: Played in high school
Why You Play with the Fillies: I love the game and appreciate the team's inclusive and fun environment.
Darcy Armstrong
Occupation: Physical Therapist
Basketball Experience: I played varsity basketball for four years at Model High School and two years at Reinhardt College.
Why You Play with the Fillies: I joined for fun workouts and rediscovered basketball. Now, I value the sisterhood and support among teammates.
Ebony Jefferson
Occupation: Scientist
Basketball Experience: Played varsity basketball (1999–2003) and at USC-Columbia (2004–2009)
Why You Play with the Fillies: I love the game and cherish the strong sense of family and community that the Fillies embody.