What started as a simple pandemic pastime has since grown into quite an exciting amateur sports league… and it all began with a Valley teen.
“Wiffle is simply nostalgic. It’s a kids’ game at heart, and everyone has some backyard memory of playing wiffle,” says Logan Rose, the 20-year-old founder of Big League Wiffle Ball (BLW).
The Phoenix Country Day School alum launched the league in 2020 when he was just 16 determined to bring people together during the isolating days of the pandemic. And this October, Scottsdale Stadium will host the sixth annual Western Wiffle Ball Classic. The Classic is for top-tier wiffle talent from across the country to compete for glory, home run bragging rights, and a place in BLW history. Set for October 18th, the day-long event features both competitive and recreational divisions, a high-energy Home Run Derby, and the kind of backyard-meets-ballpark energy that only wiffle can deliver.
Now a freshman at SMU in Dallas, Logan has grown BLW into a national phenomenon. Last year’s Final Four tournament? Held inside the dome of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys.
Oh, and fun fact: he’s the son of longtime Valley PR powerhouse Jason Rose (of Rose + Allyn Public Relations), so you could say building buzz runs in the family.
For our Kids Issue, we caught up with Logan to talk origins, what’s next, and why wiffle ball brings the best energy in the game.
What was the first tournament like?
It was put together with only a month’s notice and was a huge success. I’ll never forget walking into Scottsdale Stadium and seeing people warm up in awe of what I’d created.
Did you ever imagine it would grow this big?
I always had a vision, especially after our first tournament. Playing at AT&T Stadium? Beyond my wildest dreams.
What’s the vibe like at the Classic?
We get the best talent in the country and this mix of fun and competition. Last year, teams from over 20 states came out.
Favorite moment so far?
Definitely AT&T Stadium; but also, winning my first tournament championship last year with my closest friends and family. We had to hit walk-off home runs against some of the best teams in the country to win. Epic.
What makes this year’s tournament different?
This Classic will kick off our 2025–26 season. I’m excited to meet new talent… we’re expecting even more teams. The competition is wide open.
How does the tournament work? Who can play?
Teams register in either the Recreational or Competitive division. Everyone gets three pool play games, then the top teams advance to a single elimination bracket. Each team has 3–5 players, it’s $120 to enter, and both boys and girls are welcome. No age groups. It’s all about skill and spirit.
What has BLW taught you about leadership and community?
It’s taught me how to take initiative, communicate, and support others. Growing up in Paradise Valley definitely gave me a passion for connection and leading with purpose. We began with eight kids we knew, and it grew from there. If it’s something you love, that passion will take you far.
What’s next for BLW?
We’re lining up some amazing events for the season and expanding the professional league. Dream venues? Definitely Fenway, Wrigley, Yankee Stadium.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
If I’m lucky, maybe I’ll still be running the Big League Wiffle Ball!
Any fun league traditions?
Our World Series celebration! We pop apple cider instead of champagne for the winners.
blwiffleball.com