Little Fenway hosts 13th Wiffle Ball Classic to benefit Type 1 diabetes

ESSEX, VT – “The Vermont Summer Classic has been described by some as a giant hug for those with Type 1 diabetes,” said Jeff Kolok, CEO of SlamT1D.

It’s that time of year again to swing for the fences in Essex.

“It is a fundraiser and each year we seem to just crush one record after another. This year we’ve topped over $400,000,” said Kolok. “It brings a big smile, but what brings a much bigger smile is seeing everyone here having such a great time, seeing the people here with type 1 diabetes just being able to forget about such a tough disease for the weekend.”

The Wiffle balls were flying at Little Fenway, Little Wrigley, Little Field of Dreams, and for the first time Little Yankee Stadium on Saturday. The 13th annual weekend tournament for SlamT1D began a day late due to Friday’s harsh weather, but that didn’t stop over 300 players from across the map from joining in on the fun.

“We even have a little boy visiting us from London, England who saw a video of this tournament recently and we provided a grant for him to get over here with his mom,” said Kolok.

“For Mason to be a part of this has been really good for him,” said Jennifer Barnaby, Mason’s mother. “To be a part of something that’s so close to home with him being Type 1, it’s absolutely incredible… As he said earlier, what did you say? This is going to be the best day ever?”

“Yeah, the best day of my life,” responded the young Mason.

That’s not just because of the gameplay, Mason gets to meet two of his idols – Trey Flood and Jimmy Knorp – both play for Major League Wiffle Ball and also have Type 1 diabetes.

“Seeing all these people out here to raise awareness for something I have personally, means a lot to me,” said Flood, who has attended the tournament before.

“[It’s nice] to see other T1D’ers and know you’re not alone. Everyone here is super nice. Super good people,” said Knorp.

We know the highlight of Mason’s trip was was meeting Flood and Knorp, but the two Wiffle ball stars feel the same way.

“I get emotional coming here. Mason’s mom to [told] us that he started playing baseball after he saw the video of us two out here. That’s why we do it, that’s why we play the game and it’s a great feeling,” said Knorp.

“[Mason’s] a great dude, I’m so glad he could make it out. I know he’s having a great time. We all are,” said Knorp.

When asked how he has felt meeting his Flood and Knorp in person, Mason’s answer was simple. “Incredible.”

Mason is living his dream and he says, you could too. “If you’re a Type 1 diabetic, follow your dreams. There’s nothing that can stop you [from doing] it.”

The tournament continues all day on Sunday with playoff action.

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