Uniontown, Pa. – The beloved community wiffle‑ball tournament founded by former Connellsville pitcher Nick Damico will take place at Bailey Park on Sept. 19. The 27th annual event, now in its sixth year supporting the Miracle League of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, promises a day of family‑friendly competition and charitable giving.
Organizer steps back to focus on logistics
Damico, who played collegiately at PennWest California, has been both organizer and participant since the tournament’s inception in 2000. In recent years he has stepped back from playing to ensure the event runs smoothly. “I love playing but I haven’t been able to for the last couple of years,” he said. “The event used to be private, but now it’s public, and I need to make sure everything is running smoothly.”
City council approval opens new venue
Uniontown City Council approved the request to use Bailey Park during its regular monthly meeting on Aug. 6, after a proposal from Mark “Mookie” John. The council’s decision cleared the way for the tournament to move from private fields at Damico’s family homes to a public park that can accommodate more spectators.
“We are excited to be using Bailey Park for the tournament,” Damico said. “Mookie has a lot of positive ties with the city, and he really came through and helped us a lot. We are going to use the softball field at Bailey Park. I am going to go down the night before the tournament to set everything up. It seems to get easier each year.”
Schedule and charitable focus
The first game is slated for 12 p.m., with the final match expected around 6 p.m. A player from the Miracle League will throw out the first pitch, underscoring the event’s charitable purpose. T‑shirts priced at $20 include tournament entry, with all proceeds directed to the Miracle League of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands program, which provides inclusive baseball experiences for children with disabilities.
Local impact and personal notes
Damico, now director of special education for the Frazier School District, highlighted the importance of community involvement. “Playing at Bailey Park will make it more accessible and provide an experience for everyone to enjoy,” he said. “It is a fun time for all ages.” He also shared that he recently became a father, adding a personal dimension to his commitment to family‑focused events.
Under Damico’s leadership, the Frazier School District serves roughly 900 students, allowing him to give more individualized attention—a principle he brings to the tournament’s organization.
Looking ahead
Efforts are underway to have local radio station WMBS broadcast the tournament, further expanding its reach within the community. Organizers hope the event’s success will encourage other local groups to partner with city facilities for charitable recreation.
The Damico Wiffle Ball Tournament exemplifies Uniontown’s tradition of community service, faith‑based generosity, and family‑centered recreation, reinforcing the town’s commitment to supporting children with special needs while providing a wholesome weekend activity for residents.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
