By Linda Collins
For the Herald
MAD RIVER TOWNSHIP — Mad River Township Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Wise is once again putting out the call to area law enforcement, firefighters and EMS teams, and medical personnel to hit the diamond and participate in the Second Annual Heroes vs. Breast Cancer Softball Tournament.
The Clark County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #209 is sponsoring the event again this year, which is slated for Saturday, Sept. 10, with a Sunday, Sept. 11 rain date. According to Wise, who is coordinating the fundraising event, the tournament will be held on the baseball field behind the Enon VFW Post 8437, George Roger Clark Memorial, located at 5075 Enon Xenia Road.
The sheriff’s deputy noted that he is setting his goals higher this year and is anticipating upwards to eight teams of “heroes” competing in the annual softball tournament.
“We played only one game last year, but I am hoping more teams will sign up this year so the tournament will be an all-day event,” Wise said. “My goal is to have a better tournament every year and generate more money for a worthy cause.”
Pink will rule the morning of the tournament as breast cancer survivors run a “survivor lap” prior to the teams taking the field. Fans and supporters will have an opportunity to visit a concession stand full of game-time snacks, and children will have a chance to participate in a variety of games. Free parking will also be available to all participants and fans. Wise is encouraging members of the community to bring their lawn chairs and blankets and spend the day. All proceed from the softball tournament will benefit Pink Ribbon Girls.
Tracy Metzger, a 15-year breast cancer survivor, founded Pink Ribbon Girls almost 14 years ago in an effort to help other women who were also battling breast cancer. The Tipp City-based, nonprofit organization provides direct support to breast cancer patients by supplying them with free services, education and peer support. The organization currently provides free meals shipped directly to the women and their families, transportation to and from medical appointments, housekeeping services and continuous friendship and encouragement. The organization’s motto is “no one travels this road alone.”
“It’s a great opportunity for the community to support these women who are battling cancer,” said Wise.
The deadline for teams to register for the fundraising tournament is Monday, Aug. 1, and the cost for each team is $25. To register, contact Wise at [email protected]. For more information about the Pink Ribbon Girls, visit pinkribbongirls.org.
“I misspelled heroes when setting up a contact e-mail address, but any team’s registration will still be received at that e-mail address,” Wise noted.
