JERRY NORTHWOOD … “Captain America” …
Long time Master’s competitor Jerry Northwood passed away at the age of 87, at his home in Crawfordville, Florida on June 30, 2024. Just shy of a year later, he was followed by his wife Claudene on June 17, 2025. The couple had resided in Prescott, Arizona for many years before retiring to Florida in 2020 and now rest together at the National Cemetery in Tallahassee.
A US Army veteran, Jerry served as a First Lieutenant during the Vietnam era and later enjoyed a successful civilian career as a life insurance broker. On court he earned the moniker “Captain America” for always being decked out in red, white and blue themed gear. His patriotism extended to support of the Military Racquetball Federation (MRF), where he coached special programs for Military Adaptive Court Sports through 2020.
Jerry’s own racquetball career spanned a broad range of play, from earning a #8 national ranking spot in Men’s 60+ singles in 1998, to steady competition at both National Masters Championships and IRF World Senior Championships over decades. Just a few of his many finishes included a double-medal at the 2002 NMRA Championships (silver in M65+ singles; bronze in doubles), winner of the Huntsman Senior Games M70+ Doubles title in 2008, USAR National Doubles 70+ Champion in 2009, and double-gold at the IRF World Seniors (M75+ singles; Mixed 70+ doubles) in 2012.
His travels and accomplishments were a regular feature in local sports reporting by The Daily Courier in Prescott Valley, and he was often recognized for his added community engagement with youth in sports. It’s certain that – among his many Master’s Racquetball peers, friends and family – Jerry’s smiling face, generosity, and legacy will live on.
Compiled by Linda Mojer from published archive material, online posts and contributions by Ed Mooney, Terry Rogers and Frank Taddonio. Photo edit: Dawn Ceizler.