National Wiffleball Day

Group of children playing wiffleball in a sunny park, wearing colorful athletic clothes, surrounded by cheering friends and family..
National wiffleball day illustration

Wiffleball enthusiasts, gather 'round! It's time to celebrate National Wiffleball Day! This delightful day of commemorating the plastic-perforated wonder of baseball is here to bring endless joy and hilarious moments to your summer festivities. So grab your friends, grab your wiffleball bat, and get ready to swing for the fences!

When is Wiffleball Day?

It's national wiffleball day on the 14th August.


A Brief History of Wiffleball

What do you get when you combine a playful imagination, a perforated plastic ball, and a lightweight bat? You get the magical game of wiffleball! This iconic backyard sport was invented in 1953 by a couple of friends from Connecticut named David N. Mullany and his son, Stephen. Their vision was to create a fun and safe game that could be played in smaller spaces, without the risk of broken windows or towering home runs.

Since its creation, wiffleball has become a beloved staple of summertime fun across the United States. It gained popularity as a casual game among families and friends, with its unique plastic ball allowing for all sorts of unpredictable pitches and crazy curveballs.

Over the years, the rules of wiffleball evolved, and variations of the game popped up in different regions. Some players introduced makeshift wiffleball stadiums complete with outfield fences and designated home run zones, while others embraced the simplicity of a free-for-all game in the backyard.

Getting in the Wiffleball Spirit

Now that you know the history, it's time to make the most of National Wiffleball Day! Gather your loved ones, set up your wiffleball field, and let the game begin. Don't forget to bring your A-game and your sense of humor because wiffleball is all about the laughs and good times.

Use the hashtag #NationalWiffleballDay on social media to connect with other wiffleball enthusiasts and share your wacky moments. From epic home runs to hilarious failed catches, every play is an opportunity for joy and amusement.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the farthest recorded wiffleball home run traveled an astonishing 319 feet? That's equivalent to the length of almost three school buses parked end to end. Talk about a heaping dose of wiffleball prowess!



History behind the term 'Wiffleball'


1953

The Invention of the Wiffleball

In the year 1953, a retired semi-pro baseball player named David Nelson Mullany invented the wiffleball. Mullany, with the help of his 12-year-old son, decided to create a plastic ball with oblong holes to make it easier and safer for kids to play baseball in their backyard. The lightweight and perforated ball would allow for slower pitches and unpredictable movements, adding a new level of excitement to the game.


1954

Wiffle Ball Hits the Market

One year after its invention, the wiffleball officially hit the market. David Mullany and his son formed a company called The Wiffle Ball, Inc. to manufacture and distribute the new plastic ball. The affordability and accessibility of wiffleball made it an instant success among families and communities across the United States.


1963

The Wiffle Ball Rulebook

To standardize the rules of the game and enhance its playability, The Wiffle Ball, Inc. released the first Wiffle Ball Rulebook in 1963. The rulebook outlined various aspects of the game, including field dimensions, pitching distances, and scoring guidelines. This formalized rulebook helped establish wiffleball as a legitimate and structured sport.



1967

The National Wiffle Ball Tournament

Recognizing the growing popularity of wiffleball, The Wiffle Ball, Inc. organized the first official National Wiffle Ball Tournament in 1967. Held annually in Connecticut, the tournament attracts teams from all over the country, competing for the title of national champion. The event has become a beloved tradition, celebrating the spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie that wiffleball fosters.


2002

The Wiffle Ball Hall of Fame

In the year 2002, The Wiffle Ball Hall of Fame was established to honor and recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. Inductees include notable players, influential organizers, and dedicated supporters who have helped shape the wiffleball community and its cultural significance. The Wiffle Ball Hall of Fame ensures that the history and achievements of wiffleball are properly acknowledged and celebrated.


Did you know?

Did you know that the farthest recorded wiffleball home run traveled an astonishing 319 feet? That's equivalent to the length of almost three school buses parked end to end. Talk about a heaping dose of wiffleball prowess!

Tagged

fun loved ones sports

First identified

14th August 2017

Most mentioned on

14th August 2017

Total mentions

9

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