The sixth Holly Colwell Save 2nd Base Wiffle Ball Tournament took place Saturday at Hayes Playground/Bustleton Bengals fields, with proceeds going to breast cancer patients.
The event was organized by Christine Tarducci, a breast cancer survivor, and her son Nick.
Money goes to Home Runs for Holly, targeted to metastatic breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or cold cap treatments, a grueling process that allows cancer patients to retain most of their hair while undergoing chemotherapy.
Holly Colwell, a tournament supporter, underwent such treatments, which can help patients feel better emotionally and mentally. She died, at age 33, a week after the 2019 tournament.
Christine Tarducci said the word for the day was “Believe,” borrowed from Ted Lasso. She wants everyone to believe that, someday, there will be a cure for cancer.
The tournament featured 37 teams, nine in the Rec Division and 28 in the Competitive Division.
The SWBL All-Stars won the Competitive Division, going 7-0 and beating Calcium Cannons 2-1 in the final. They earned a party package at Paddy Whacks Irish Sports Pub and $500 to be donated to the charity of their choice. Team members were Denis Szychulski III, Shane Szychulski, Jack Szychulski, Ryan King and Dan McCullion. Sean Reed was the manager.
More Play All Day won the Rec Division.
The day also featured a food truck, T-shirt sales, raffles and a card game. Money was also raised through field sponsors and home runs pledges.
City Councilman Brian O’Neill provided a $3,000 grant to cover the cost of running the tournament. He also directed $450 for the extermination of bees that had infiltrated the field in the days leading up to the tournament.
Umpires donated their time throughout the day. ••
