9/11 Memorial Wiffle Ball tournament kicks off

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Opening ceremonies were held Friday night in Westfield for the fourth annual 9/11 Memorial Wiffle Ball Tournament.

The annual tournament raises money for children of fallen police officers and members of the military.  This year's tournament honored the sacrifice of Marine Corps Captain John Maloney of Chicopee who was killed in Iraq in 2005

Massachusetts State Police Trooper Christopher Dolan told 22News, "it's not about wiffle ball.  It's all about honoring the families of our fallen soldiers.  That's the heart behind the tournament.

Proceeds from the tournament go to the Community Christian School and the M assachusetts Soldiers' Legacy Fund which provides college assistance grants to the children of fallen soldiers.

Ryan Durkin is the Executive director of the Massachusetts Soldiers' Legacy Fund .  He told 22News, "we came up for the first one two years ago and then last year and this year as well.  I mean, they've done a hell of a job.  I think it's been at least $15,000 raised for our fund alone."

The tournament runs through Sunday.  Parking for the event will be at the Westfield State University South Campus Parking Lot off Western Ave.  The event is free and open to the public.