Staying in the game

TORRINGTON – Now in its fourth year, the North Platte Valley Board of Realtors annual softball tournament is swinging for the fences in its mission to help Goshen County residents who are battling cancer.
In order to participate in the double-elimination tournament – scheduled this year for Saturday, June 17, at Jirdon Park baseball fields – teams pay an entry fee of $300. Businesses may also sponsor a group of charity-minded individuals. NPVBR is available to help put together a team, if necessary.
“We really need applications,” realtor Irene Reese said. “There’s no age limit.”
In the past, the event has raised around $2,000 for area families.

“We gave money to four different families last year – $500 apiece,” Reese said. “That’s what we raise all this money for. One hundred percent of it is to give away to families in need.
“If people have someone they know is battling cancer who could use some help, let us know,” she added.
The first NPVBR tournament honored broker Bill Speidel, and another year, the event was held in memory of realtor Brenda Haeffelin. In 2017, the board simply wants to give hope to those facing cancer locally.
“Our goal is to raise as much as we can,” Reese said.
The NPVBR also accepts donations if individuals or businesses do not want to play or sponsor a team.
“There are trophies for the winners,” Reese said. “All of the umpires and scorekeepers are volunteers, so we’re looking for (people) for those areas, too.”
Applications can be picked up at the Goshen County Chamber of Commerce or Platte Valley Bank, and completed applications may be dropped off at the bank.
“The teams love to play ball – and it’s for a great cause,” Reese said. “It’s always good fun.”