News - 2025

Mystic Wellington Yacht Club Celebrates a Joyful and Impactful Autism Awareness Weekend

Mystic River, MA — July 27, 2025 — The Mystic Wellington Yacht Club (MWYC) once again brought the community together for its annual Autism Awareness Weekend, a heartwarming event filled with fun, fishing, and family. With perfect summer weather and a strong turnout, the weekend was a resounding success.

Sunday festivities began with the kickoff of the Freshwater Bass Tournament, sanctioned by the Massachusetts BASS Nation (MBN). Anglers from across the region, including members of the Mass Bass Fishing Federation, competed in a spirited contest. The winning team landed an impressive collection of five fish weighing over 20 pounds.

Children from The NewEngland Center for Children, The Boston Hagashi School and the Nashoba Learning Group were special guests at the event, enjoying a day designed just for them. They had the opportunity to try fishing for the first time, guided by experienced volunteers and anglers, and were even able to take the rods home as a special keepsake from the day. One young attendee shared, "This was the best day ever! I caught a fish and got to keep my fishing rod!"

Captain Chuck Nease and Captain Bill Asaro from Riverside Yacht Club generously offered free boat rides to families, giving them a scenic tour of the Mystic River. MWYC members Tom Carli, Bob Steele, and Medford City Council Candidate Nate Merritt helped coordinate the rides, ensuring everyone had a chance to enjoy the water.

The fun continued on land with a Family Fun Day that featured music, games, a bouncy hut, a water slide, and a visit from the Medford Fire Department, whose presence delighted the kids. There was no shortage of food, with plenty of burgers, hotdogs, sausage, and pizza to go around.

A highlight of the day was a K9 demonstration by Arlington Police Officer Mike Hogan and his partner Eiko, who also gave children the chance to experience what it’s like to be a first responder.

MWYC members Tom Dello Iacono, Brian Donegan, and Robert Finocchiaro amongst many others were instrumental in organizing and supporting the day’s events. Medford City Council Candidate Nate Merritt also lent a hand throughout the day, reinforcing the strong community spirit.

The event was more than just fun—it was a celebration of inclusion, awareness, and the therapeutic power of nature and community. All proceeds went toward the local autism focused schools.

A special thanks goes out to the many local donors who contributed to the event’s raffle, which featured a wide array of prizes including restaurant gift cards and cash donations. Their generosity played a key role in the event’s success.

MWYC extends heartfelt gratitude to all the MWYC & RYC member volunteers whose time, energy, and dedication made the weekend possible. Their efforts helped create lasting memories for every family in attendance.

Looking forward to another great event in 2026! Hope to see you then

13th Annual Striped Bass Tournament Makes Waves for Autism Awareness

Medford, MA — July 26, 2025

Early Saturday morning, anglers and community members gathered for the 13th Annual Saltwater Striped Bass Tournament, hosted by the Mystic Wellington Yacht Club as part of its Autism Awareness Weekend. This beloved tradition brought out seasoned fishers and first-time participants alike, all united by a shared purpose: casting lines for change.

With pristine conditions and plenty of action offshore, competitors submitted an impressive range of striped bass entries. Ultimately, it was Mike Pieropan who secured the winning catch a remarkable 47.5-inch striper that earned him first place honors.

Top Finishers:

1st Place: Mike Pieropan – 47.5"
2nd Place: Jarret Furtado – 47"
3rd Place: Eric Sabolevski – 46.5"

Honorable Mentions:

Capt. Jeremy Furtado – Multiple entries over 40"
John Shaw – 45.6", 43.75", and 40.6"
Bob Gillen – 45", 42"
Christopher Moro – 43.5", 39"

What sets this tournament apart is its unwavering commitment to advocacy: 100% of proceeds benefit local schools supporting children on the autism spectrum, reinforcing the event’s heartfelt motto—“Reel in a striper, reel in some support.”

Event organizers reflected on the milestone year with pride and gratitude. “Thirteen years ago we cast the first line with hope in our hearts,” said one founding member.

“Today, the ripples have become waves of understanding, acceptance, and support.”

With rods packed and spirits high, this year’s event closed on a note of celebration, unity, and purpose. Here’s to another year of tight lines and big hearts.

News 2024

2024 Classic and Muscle Car Show

On September 14, 2024, the Mystic Wellington Yacht Club in Medford, MA, hosted an exhilarating Classic and Muscle Car Show. The event brought together car enthusiasts from all over, showcasing a stunning array of classic and muscle cars. Attendees enjoyed a day filled with automotive beauty, engaging conversations, and a shared passion for vintage and high-performance vehicles. The picturesque setting of the yacht club added to the charm, making it a memorable day for all who attended.

The Event was a great success with over 50 classic and muscle cars on display and perfect weather. This event is becoming very popular and seems to be growing every year! Lunch was served during the car show, featuring hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chips, watermelon, and assorted ice-cold drinks, all complementary and sponsored by MWYC. Later that evening, around 8:30, there was a tremendous fireworks display on the river right in front of our club. It was an amazing ending to a fantastic day and a great way to end our boating season.

Hope to see everyone again next year!