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Updates and Transactions

December 19, 2025

OHIO BOCCE LEAGUE ANNOUNCES BLOCKBUSTER TRADE: CHAMPIONSHIP PIECES SWAPPED BETWEEN KOPPEL AND WICKLIFFE

YOUNGSTOWN, OH – Ohio Bocce League (OBL) Commissioner Danny Catullo officially announced today a high-stakes player transaction that sends championship-winner Chris “Chim” Chmielewski to the Koppel Gamblers in exchange for standout pointer Cory “Witt” Wittway, who joins the defending champion Wickliffe Barbarians.

The trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises as they prepare for Season 2. Chmielewski departs a Barbarians squad he helped lead to the first-ever OBL title, while Wittway moves from a Koppel team looking to secure the final pieces of a championship-caliber roster.

Strategic Depth for Koppel For the Koppel Gamblers, the acquisition of Chmielewski provides the elite shooting and veteran leadership necessary to contend for a title. Gamblers Owner/Player Matt Taylor moved aggressively to secure the veteran.

“After the Gamblers fell short of our goal in the playoffs, I took a hard look at the Gambler roster,” said Taylor. “Quickly realizing that we needed more depth at the shooting position, I moved aggressively to fill that need. Chris fell to my lap for the price of Cory. Knowing the caliber of player and teammate Cory is, my heart hurt, but it was certainly in the best interest of the Gamblers. The addition of Chris adds an enormous amount of roster versatility. The Barbarians refused to use him in enough big spots, and Chris will get plenty of those opportunities here.”

Chmielewski expressed his readiness for the new challenge: “Honored to be a part of a team that wants me to help them. I am ready to bring my heart and soul and be the last piece of the puzzle that brings the Gamblers the next OBL CHAMPIONSHIP. I also want it known that I love being a part of the Barbarians and was proud of what we accomplished.”

Enhancing the Barbarians’ Dynasty The Wickliffe Barbarians receive Wittway, a player known for his composure and precision. Barbarians Owner/Player Bob Gallese believes “Witt” is the perfect fit for their campaign to repeat. “I will miss Chris’ intensity and knowledge of the game of bocce. He was our emotional leader and helped the Barbarians win the first-ever OBL championship!” said Gallese. “I know he will get much more court time, which he deserves, and help the Gamblers with his hitting. Cory is someone I’ve watched play over the years. He’s a top-notch pointer and doesn’t get rattled by much. Although the Barbarians have some great pointers, Cory will only enhance our pointing position and I’m sure he will gel very well with all the Barbarians! Welcome aboard, Cory, and I look forward to season two!”

Wittway shared his gratitude for the move: “First, I want to thank owner Matt Taylor for the opportunity to be part of the Ohio Bocce League. Playing with the Koppel Gamblers has been a valuable experience, and I hold it in high regard. I am now eager to bring my skills and knowledge to the championship team, the Wickliffe Barbarians, for the upcoming season. I also want to thank owner Bob Gallese for this opportunity to perform for the Barbarians for our bid to repeat as champions.”

Commissioner’s Approval OBL Commissioner Danny Catullo approved the trade, noting the shift in the league’s competitive balance. “This trade demonstrates the commitment our owners have to winning,” said Catullo. “Seeing a championship contributor and great shooter like Chmielewski move to a hungry Koppel team creates an incredible storyline for the upcoming season. The Barbarians are also hungry in their quest for a second championship and are getting an outstanding roller with a cool, calm demeanor on and off the court. The OBL continues to evolve and moves like this keep our fans on the edge of their seats.”

By the Numbers: Regular Season Stats

Chris Chmielewski (to Gamblers):

• Shooting: 68% (19 for 28)

• Rolling: 55% (6 for 11)

Cory Wittway (to Barbarians):

• Shooting: 50% (1 for 2)

• Rolling: 72% (67 for 93)