National Wiffle Ball Day

A group of smiling children playing wiffle ball in a sunny park, wearing colorful t-shirts and sneakers, surrounded by lush green trees.. — National wiffle ball day illustration

Get ready to swing for the fences, because it's National Wiffle Ball Day! This beloved sport has been capturing the hearts of both young and young-at-heart for decades. So grab your bat, lace up your sneakers, and let's dive into the fascinating world of wiffle ball!

When is Wiffle Ball Day?

It's national wiffle ball day on the 14th August.

A Brief History of Wiffle Ball

Wiffle ball, a classic backyard game, was invented in 1953 by a dad named David N. Mullany, who wanted to create a safer alternative to baseball for his son and his friends. Inspired by a black ball used to develop a slider pitch, Mullany designed a plastic ball with oblong holes, making it easier to throw curveballs and knuckleballs. And just like that, the wiffle ball was born!

Over the years, wiffle ball has gained immense popularity, not only as a recreational activity but also as a competitive sport. Tournaments and leagues have sprouted up across the nation, attracting players of all ages. From skilled pitchers mastering the art of spin to outfielders diving for spectacular catches, wiffle ball showcases the true essence of baseball in a compact and exhilarating format.

How to Play Wiffle Ball

If you're new to wiffle ball, fear not! The rules are simple, making it accessible for everyone. Grab a plastic bat and a wiffle ball, and you're good to go. The pitcher tries to strike out the batter by throwing various pitches, while the batter's main goal is to knock the ball out of the designated playing area. And just like baseball, three strikes and you're out!

Wiffle ball can be played in backyards, parks, and even indoor facilities. With its adaptable nature, you can create custom rules and modify the game to fit your play area. Whether you have a tiny yard or a sprawling field, wiffle ball brings people together for hours of laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories.

Did You Know?

In 2016, on August 14th, the internet exploded with 72 mentions of National Wiffle Ball Day! This was a glorious day for wiffle ball enthusiasts as they united online to share their love for this fantastic sport.

History behind the term 'Wiffle Ball'

1952

The Invention of the Wiffle Ball

In 1952, David N. Mullany invented the Wiffle Ball. He was struck by the idea while watching his young son and a friend play a game of stickball. The Wiffle Ball was designed to be safer and easier to throw and hit than a traditional baseball. Mullany created the ball by cutting holes into a plastic sphere, which gave it its distinctive aerodynamic properties.

1953

Patent and Production

In 1953, David Mullany patented the Wiffle Ball, and he and his son Stephen started producing the balls in their backyard in Shelton, Connecticut. They initially sold the balls for 25 cents each. The popularity of the Wiffle Ball quickly grew, and Mullany expanded production by setting up a manufacturing plant.

1964

Wiffle Ball Incorporated

In 1964, Wiffle Ball Incorporated was officially established as a company. The company began mass-producing Wiffle Balls and bats, providing an official and standardized version of the popular backyard game. Wiffle Ball quickly became a staple of summer activities and backyard gatherings, loved by both children and adults.

2000

Induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame

In the year 2000, the Wiffle Ball was rightfully recognized for its cultural significance and impact on American childhoods. It was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor that solidified its place in toy history. The Wiffle Ball's simple design and the joy it brings to countless generations made it a deserving addition to this esteemed hall of fame.

Present

Continued Popularity and Evolution

To this day, the Wiffle Ball remains a beloved and iconic backyard game. Its simple design, combined with the unique pitching and hitting techniques it requires, ensure that it continues to bring fun and laughter to those who play. The Wiffle Ball has also undergone some transformations over the years, with variations such as the Wiffle Ball Plus, which features a rubber cork center for increased durability.