ROSSFORD, Ohio — It's not uncommon to enjoy your backyard during the summertime. After all, lush green grass and a grill provide the perfect get together.
Yet, one Rossford family has turned their patch of land into a Wiffle Ball field that not only provides for competitors, but for charity.
"If you build it, they will come," creator & homeowner Heather Post said. "It's true in Rossford."
On Saturday, the annual tournament hit its 11th year.
"We originally started with three teams and we now have to cap it at eight because there's other teams that want to play," Post said. "We have a waiting list from time to time, but word of mouth is working out well."
"Everybody thinks Wiffle Ball is easy until you actually get out here and try to do it," 4th year player Troy Adams added. "You can do some amazing things with a Wiffle Ball, but it's not Wiffle Ball when you were a kid."
Each year, dozens of players from across the region converge to the backyard field, including some who have never played before.
"My first impression was this isn't normal Wiffle Ball," first timer Lucas Groll said. That was a good thing because there's not as much running. Yet, a lot of competitiveness."
The 2022 Back 40 Fun Fest Wiffle Ball Tournament consisted of eight team on Saturday in a double-elimination format. Teams competed for a trophy, medals & of course bragging rights to help fuel the desire to swing for the fences.
Yet, what makes this event so special is the fact it also gives back.
"Each team captain gets an opportunity to bring a charity to the table," Post said. "Everyone who comes in and plays or anyone who is a visitor and donates, they get a vote and that vote goes in."
"Last year, we did a lot for the Anthony Dia Foundation," Adams added. "Gave back I think $750."
This year's proceeds went to the Til Valhalla Project, an organization aimed at memorializing fallen heroes.
Yes, bats and balls are a part of the game but the biggest rule everyone must follow is to have fun.
"I was like 'We should field our own team,' because that would be a lot of fun, even if we lose two games in a row," Groll said. "It's still fun with the Home Run Derby, raffles and everything like that."
"Just great to be around some of the guys and girls, it's just a great hometown atmosphere," Adams proclaimed.