The third annual Bell County Relay for Life Knock Cancer Out of the Park Co-Ed Softball Tournament will be held June 9-10.

Melissa Ramsey, the chair for the Bell County Relay For Life and business manager for nursing services at Middlesboro ARH, spoke about the upcoming tournament.

Ramsey’s history in the Relay For Life dates back to 2003 as a member of the Food City team. She has since participated with many teams in both Bell and Claiborne counties.

“I have participated in Relay For Life for 15 years now. Over the course of those years, I have lost loved ones, co-workers and friends to cancer. I love that Relay gives me an opportunity to make a difference. We celebrate with the survivors and honor the ones we have lost by continuing to fight for them. There will be a cure one day,” said Ramsey.

The idea for a softball tournament came about in 2016 when the various teams got together to speak of what kind of fundraiser they could put on that would appeal to the community — thus, a softball tournament. The turnout was strong and the event ended up raising over $2,00o that first year.

“I feel like this tournament and Relay are great ways to create unity in the community — like-minded people coming together to support a great cause. Is there anyone out there who can say that they do not know someone who has been touched by cancer? It is so important that we all come together as a community to fight cancer. We can make a difference. And we can have a good time while we do it. I encourage people to come to our softball tournament, to come to Relay and see what it is all about. They won’t be disappointed,” said Ramsey.

To join the tournament, you must 18 years or older. No special requirements are needed to play, just a love for the game and a desire to help fight cancer. There are 14 registered players on a team. The teams are co-ed. The deadline for registration is June 1 and the price for team registration is $250.

The tournament is open to the public and refreshments will be sold.

For more information contact Melissa Ramsey at 865-585-1071 or at mramsey@arh.org.