The seventh Holly Colwell Save 2nd Base Wiffle Ball Tournament took place recently at Hayes Playground/Bustleton Bengals fields, with proceeds going to breast cancer patients.
The event was organized by Christine Tarducci, a breast cancer survivor, along with her son, Nick, and husband, Vince.
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.
Insurance does not cover all of those treatments.
Holly Colwell, a tournament supporter, underwent such treatments, which can help patients feel better emotionally and mentally.
Holly died, at age 33, a week after the 2019 tournament.
Holly’s mom, Joan Lafty, and brother, Vic Lafty, were among family members at the tournament.
The July 20 tournament featured 32 teams, in both the Rec Division and the Competitive Division, that played three-inning games.
Ty’s Tots won the Competitive Division, beating the ‘23 Champs, who were seeking a repeat, in the championship game.
Ty’s Tots earned a party package at Paddy Whacks Irish Sports Pub and $500 to be donated to the charity of their choice.
The champs donated the money back to Home Runs for Holly.
A big highlight of the day was a visit by the Phillie Phanatic.
The day also featured a food truck, cornhole, volleyball, T-shirt sales, raffles and a card game.
Money was also raised through field sponsors and home runs pledges.
City Councilman Brian O’Neill (R-10th dist.), who was in attendance, provided a $4,000 grant to cover the cost of running the tournament.
The city Department of Parks and Recreation cut the grass and got the fields ready for play.
A moment of silence was observed for all people who died of breast cancer in the last year.
Umpires donated their time throughout the day. ••
