EVENTS
MUDBALL CLASSIC
Sitka ' s End-of- Summer Tradition
Each Labor Day weekend, Sitka’ s ballfields come alive with the annual Mudball Classic, a tradition nearly five decades strong. The first tournament was organized in 1976 by brothers Mike and Pete Hagan, who worked as painting contractors throughout Southeast Alaska. As they traveled for jobs, they promoted the new event and encouraged teams from neighboring towns to make the trip. With the help of Barry Collins, who worked alongside them, their idea quickly grew into a tradition that brought outside teams into Sitka year after year.
Rain or shine, and sometimes with more mud than anyone bargained for, the Mudball Classic endures as Sitka’ s summer send-off. There are no opening ceremonies or strict themes, just Mudball. Some teams show up in costume, others in standard gear, and everyone dives in with the same spirit. Most of the lineup is familiar year after year, though squads have traveled from Whitehorse, Canada, and Seattle to join the fun. Whether sponsored by a local business or self-funded by players, every team finds a way to make it to the field.
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