The sun dips low on the horizon, casting long shadows as the game reaches its most intense moment. With one out and runners on second and third, Jr. Zachary Jongekryg steps up to the plate. His team trails three to five. The pitcher fires a blazing curveball to the left—strike one. Jongekryg shakes it off and readies himself again. The next pitch drops just before the strike zone, tricky enough to draw another swing and another miss. The chance to win feels just out of reach, but Jongekryg doesn’t back down. As the ball speeds in, he swings hard and sends it soaring over the horizon and into the woods. What looks like a lost opportunity turns into a game-winning blast, as Jongekryg rounds the bases in victory.

   At first glance, this might seem like the thrilling end to a baseball game. However, this is wiffleball, a fast-paced, high-energy sport that takes the essence of baseball and twists it with its own unique style. Played with lightweight plastic bats and hollow plastic balls, wiffleball offers all the excitement of the classic game but in a smaller, more lively package. Games are shorter, with just three innings instead of nine, and only two outs per inning, keeping the pace quick and the tension high. The plastic ball allows pitchers to throw wild curves, rising fastballs, and tricky sliders that can confuse even the best hitters.

  Inspired by the YouTube channel Major League Wiffle Ball (MLW), a group of West Ottawa students came together to form their own league, the National League of Wiffle Ball (NLW). What started two years ago as a casual idea has grown into a structured league, featuring ten dedicated players and games occurring every other week. In an effort to keep the league competitive and fair, the group introduced a combine. Each player went through a series of skill-based drills, testing everything from pitching accuracy to batting power and fielding ability. The results were then reviewed and used to help balance teams as evenly as possible. Although final rosters haven’t been set for the upcoming season, the league plans to form two official teams by summer, each made up of four to six players. Games will follow a best-of-three format and rotate between four different and well-loved locations. Each location brings its own quirks to the field.

Meet the players:

Joaquin Rosales – Keno

   Jr. Rosales stands at 5’7 and is a tough opponent. He has an explosive swing and gets home fast. Rosales has been participating for two years and has quickly established himself as a key player. He thrives in the outfield, using his exceptional coordination to his advantage. Last season, he dominated at the plate and made several game-changing defensive plays, and he is still not done making history. Known for being quite aggressive, Rosales is a fierce player no one wants to mess with. His relentless drive and competitive spirit push him to improve, inspiring his teammates and intimidating his rivals.

Colin Schneider – C Schwizzy

   Jr. Schneider stands tall at 6’2, making him a commanding presence on the field. He is known not only for his strong pitching abilities but also for his ability to boost team morale, keeping spirits high even in the toughest moments. Having been part of the league for two years, Schneider has developed into a reliable force both on the mound and in the clubhouse. Watch out when he is on the field—his relentless smack talk is as fierce as his pitching, and he is always ready to back it up with skill and precision. His competitive edge and confident attitude make him a player opponents love to hate, while his teammates count on him to bring intensity and energy to every game. With every pitch and every word, Schneider keeps the pressure on, driving his team forward and leaving no doubt that he is here to compete.

Lukas Woudwyk- Woody

   Jr. Lukas Woudwyk stands at 5’10 and possesses a cannon for an arm that few can match. As one of the team’s main pitchers, Woudwyk has mastered a wide range of pitches, making him a formidable presence on the mound. His arsenal includes a vicious riser that fools even the sharpest hitters and a fast slider that cuts sharply across the strike zone. He’s constantly working to add new tricks to his collection, keeping opponents guessing every time he steps up to pitch. But Woudwyk is not a one-dimensional player. He’s a heck of a batter too, making him a true dual threat on the field. With a batting average of .500, he consistently delivers multiple hits each game, swinging with power and precision. Whether on the mound or at the plate, Woudwyk’s skill and determination make him a critical player his team relies on to change the game.

Zachary Jongekryg- Zachy poo poo

   This 5’6 Jr. is a batter no pitcher wants to face. With every hit carrying the power of a home run, Jongekryg dominated the last spring training game, capitalizing on his opponents’ mistakes and punishing them with crushing blows. Pitchers have to be incredibly strategic when facing him. One mistake, one poorly placed pitch, and that ball is flying out of the park before anyone can react. But Jongekryg isn’t just a powerhouse at the plate. He has been putting in serious work on his pitching as well, training relentlessly to become a true dual threat. His dedication to mastering both offense and defense is turning him into a player who can change the course of a game from either side, making him an even more dangerous presence on the field.

Joel Cosgrove – J Cosy

This 6-foot Jr. is a versatile player who excels when it counts the most. While he may not dominate any one aspect of the game, his all-around skills make him a valuable asset on the field. He consistently shows flashes of brilliance, using his speed and athleticism to gain the upper hand in crucial moments. Whether it’s making a key play in the outfield or hustling down the bases, his energy and determination often turn the tide in his team’s favor. With a knack for stepping up under pressure, he’s the kind of player who may not always steal the spotlight but is always making a difference when it matters most.

Drew Rothstien – Drewski

   Jr. Rothstein holds a commanding presence despite his 5’6 stature. Known for his fierce competitive nature, he never hesitates to fire up his teammates with words of “encouragement” that keep the energy high on the field. His sharp coordination makes him a strong hitter and a reliable outfielder, able to track down tough fly balls and deliver solid contact at the plate. Rothstein’s passion for the game and leadership qualities make him a key player, someone who not only contributes through skill but also lifts the entire team’s spirit during every game.

Myles Wilkinson – M Wizzy

   If opponents don’t watch out, Jr. Wilkinson will. Standing at 5’10, he has a remarkable ability to read pitches like an open book, anticipating every move with sharp focus and ease. His sharp eye and quick reflexes make him a constant threat on the field, forcing pitchers to bring their best every time he steps up to bat. No one wants to face him; many would rather stand alongside him, drawn by his infectious energy and confidence. His presence lifts the team and changes the momentum of the game before a single pitch is even thrown. Simply put, Wilkinson brings the vibes. 

Justin Heck – Juddy

   Heck, a proud West Ottawa alumnus, covers a lot of ground on the field. Standing tall at 6’2, his impressive wingspan gives him the ability to field nearly every ball that comes his way. Whether he is patrolling the outfield or stepping up in key defensive moments, Heck’s presence is felt wherever he is placed. His commitment to the league runs deep, and he consistently makes a strong impact both with his play and his leadership. Beyond his skill, he is known as a great teammate, always supportive, reliable, and ready to lift those around him. Heck’s combination of size, talent, and dedication makes him an invaluable part of the team’s success.

Brandon Rockafellow – B rock/rizz

   As one of the founders of the league, Jr. Rockafellow played a crucial role in getting the games started, providing much of the equipment needed to keep things rolling. Standing at 5‘10, he brings a fierce presence to the field with an impressive collection of pitches that keep batters guessing. When it’s time to swing, Rockafellow hits big, delivering clutch moments that can turn the tide of the game. Opponents dread facing him at the plate, and pitchers are equally wary when he steps up to bat. His intensity and confidence command respect, often leaving others to cower in his mere presence. Rockafellow’s leadership and skill have made him a cornerstone of the league and a player everyone watches closely.

Brody Sayrath – Lil Brody

   Sayrath stands at 5’6 but plays far bigger than his height suggests. A versatile player, he contributes wherever he is placed on the field, whether making sharp defensive plays or supporting teammates with quick, smart decisions. His skills as a fielder are impressive, showing agility and focus that help keep the game flowing smoothly. While Sayrath can get mad easily, it’s all driven by his intense competitive spirit. That fire fuels his determination and passion, making him a key part of the team’s energy and a crucial piece in maintaining the fluidity of play. As a sophomore, Sayrath continues to grow into his role and consistently raises the level of the game.

Locations:

Rockafellow’s House

  Rockafellow’s backyard was the original go-to spot, known for its clear home run zone and plenty of shade, perfect for a laid-back game. With the woods serving as a fence for home runs, there is almost no debate over whether a ball clears the line. The setup makes for a smooth, low-conflict game, especially when the sun starts to dip and the trees cast long shadows over the field. However, there are a few quirks to watch out for. The frequent “landmines” left by the dog and the maple tree in the back right corner of the field create some occasional obstacles. The tree has a habit of interfering with deep shots, sometimes blocking what would’ve been a clean home run and turning it into an out. The “landmines” make the outfield a bit of a hazard zone, especially for players chasing down fly balls at full speed. Still, despite its imperfections, the backyard holds a lot of history and remains one of the best and most nostalgic spots to play.   

The State Park
  The state park shines on warm summer days. The sandy surface adds a twist, making it tougher to sprint the bases or field cleanly, often leading to unexpected slips or bobbled plays. Wind is a wildcard here as it can totally throw off a pitch or pop fly, turning routine outs into chaos. This location adds the best vibes to the game, with sunsets as the backdrop for most matchups and the sounds of nature filling the air. The occasional breeze off the nearby lake can feel refreshing, even if it messes with pitches. Although a windy place, it’s a beautiful location for a game of wiffleball and always brings a laid-back, summer feel that keeps players coming back. Pro tip: Don’t forget sunglasses, or players will be squinting the whole game.

Harbor Lights Football Stadium
  This location offers the cleanest, most straightforward game. With a wide-open grassy field and no major obstacles, it’s ideal for a smooth and competitive match. No surprises here, just solid gameplay and room to show skill without the distractions of tricky terrain. The grass is a little longer than most spots, which slows down ground balls and adds a bit more challenge when fielding. There’s no clear home run area, so cones are a must to mark the appropriate distance, which usually sparks some pre-game debate about where the line should go. A light breeze is common, but it rarely affects the game in any major way. Overall, it’s an open field that brings a simple, classic feel to each matchup, making it a reliable and fun place to play.

Beechwood Park
  Beechwood Park is another solid option, with plenty of space and decent grass coverage that holds up well during most games. Just watch out for the uneven patches in the outfield, as they’ve been known to trip up more than a few players. The field sits near a row of big oak trees, which not only add shade but also scatter small, sharp sticks across the ground, adding to the natural hazards. Fielders need to stay alert, especially when tracking down fly balls near the edge. On the plus side, that same line of towering trees creates a clear and consistent home run boundary, cutting down on debates about whether a ball was out. Recently added as a location this season, Beechwood might not be the smoothest field around, but it brings its own character and charm. It’s still a very fun and competitive place to play, despite the rough patches.

Favorite moments:

   It has been two years since the league was first established, and in that time, the players have built a collection of unforgettable memories and thrilling, game-winning moments that continue to define the spirit of the NLW.

  One of the most historic performances came during a recent spring training game, when Jongekryg had the game of his life.

   “I couldn’t miss—every pitch thrown at me was gone into the trees,” said Jongekryg. “I think I had like six home runs through the two games we played, which is insane. No matter the pitcher, it was the same result: a home run. To put it into perspective, out of the eleven or so runs we scored between both games, I had like nine of them. I single-handedly carried my team. That game definitely made me love the game of wiffleball even more, and I’ll never forget it.”

   Heck also recalls a notable moment from last season in a game played at the middle school, where a casual swing turned into a game highlight.

   “There was one time toward the end of a game at the middle school, I hit one of Brandon’s pitches with one hand,” said Heck. “I wasn’t thinking much—just having fun, you know. It flew over toward second base and I thought Joel was definitely going to catch it, so I was just jogging to first. But then the funniest thing happened—he bobbled it like he was playing hot potato and dropped it in the home run area. So I ended up getting a one-handed home run off an error, which was pretty funny,” said Heck.

   The first spring training game of this season, held at Beechwood, led to a nail-biting finish that quickly became Woudwyk’s favorite memory.

   “We were in like the fifth inning in overtime, and the game felt like it would never end,” said Woudwyk. “We had my little brother Collin play just so we had enough players. Before the game, I promised him a Twizzler for every good play he made. So the game is tied eight to eight, and he’s up to bat. Honestly, I didn’t have much hope—he’s still new to the game. I was on first, and Brandon was giving Collin advice before the at-bat, and even joked that if he hit a walk-off, I had to buy him two whole packs of Twizzlers. Then, to my surprise, he steps up and hits an absolute bomb. He did what I thought was impossible and won us the game. It was crazy.” said Woudwyk

   With so many game-winning plays or funny moments, it can be hard to choose one singular moment, which became an obstacle for Sayrath. 

   “I don’t exactly have just one favorite moment, or at least I can’t remember one. All I can say is that some of my favorite times are spent playing wiffleball. Being able to hangout in various places with my friends, playing a sport that brings us all joy and entertainment. It’s just another way we can all have fun and mess around together,” said Sayrath

   As the NLW approaches another summer, one thing is for certain: These students will continue to grow their love for the game and create even more memories to be cherished. In this group of friends, the simple game of wiffleball has grown from a hobby to a serious league, sparking friendly rivalries and unforgettable moments, further strengthening friendships. The NLW continues to write its story one pitch at a time.