Monday, June 14, 2010

Thank You, David N. Mullany

Looking at this title, you probably asked yourself, "Who is David Mullany?" And as of this morning, I had no idea myself. But after some extensive research (Wikipedia), I have made a discovery. Mullany is the inventor of Wiffle ball. So this is why I am thanking him. Today, some neighborhood friends and myself held the first of many Wiffle ball tournaments- entitled "Wiff-Fest."

The day began early. Myself and friends Mike and Luc woke up around 8:30 (it's early for a teenager) and mowed "Wiffway Park" to perfection. At 11 the festivities began. We grilled up some burgers, hauled out the Gatorade, and had a celebrity first pitch (our neighbor J.T.) Needless to say, we went all out. In fact, Sunday night we went to former Denver Bronco Tatum Bell's home, asking him to be our guest of honor. We didn't exactly fail either. Bell said he would be willing to come, but he wouldn't be home until 3 PM. Although it was disappointing, the idea that someone of his caliber would even be interested was motivating. Anyways, the first game began at about 11:30- following the National Anthem. The first matchup featured myself and my friend Nick Hehemann, the Stud Muffins, against Bryan Tanner and Nic DeHererra, the Law Tigers. They took an early lead, and won the first contest by a score of 5-2. The next matchup featured some more friends of mine- Mike Tanner and Luc DeHererra, known as "Team 2," against Steven and Jake Hays, Team Stake. This one was annihilation from the start, as Team 2 took the victory, 16-2.

Team Stake was forced into back to back contests, but this time they would put up more of a fight. Against my Stud Muffins, team Stake was in it the whole game, but fell 6-3. Three more games took place in the Round Robin part of the tourney. The Standings going into the playoffs were as follows:

1. Team 2
2. The Law Tigers
3. Stud Muffins
4. Team Stake

I don't care if it's Wiffle Ball or the World Series, playoffs are exciting. The 1-4 matchup was the first played, as Team Stake got out to a hot start, leading 6-0. But Team 2 would have none of that, locking down on both sides of the ball, winning 11-6. The next game would be arguably the closest of the tournament . My Stud Muffins would take on the Law Tigers, in an attempt for revenge. After 5 (of 6), the score was 4-3 in favor of the Tigers. After tying it in the top of the 6th, the Muffins were back in it. But a dinky ground ball to the pitcher would score Bryan Tanner, giving the Law Tigers a championship bid. The Championship game was rightfully the best game of the day. Team 2 vs The Law Tigers- Mike vs Bryan Tanner. Luc vs. Nic Dehererra. This was the matchup made in heaven. It didn't let down. After an offensive show, the Law Tigers took a one-run lead into the 6th. After a quick out (we only got 2 outs per half inning) , Mike Tanner got a double, giving Luc DeHerrera the chance to be a hero. He ripped on towards the pitcher, his brother, Nic. Nic made an incredible catch, winning the Wiff-Fest championship. They got to shake the champagne (Sparkling grape juice) and lift the trophy (a masterpiece made out of plastic bowls and aluminum foil.)

It may sound cheesy, but I can't think of anything better than a day of Wiff with your good friends. So thank you, Mr. Mullany, you were the reason today was a success.

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1 comment:

  1. Very entertaining article. Wiff-Fest brings back some great memories. So, how did you do the National Anthem? :)

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