PARISHVILLE — The “Sports for Cancer” softball tournament Sept. 17 and 18 raised $4,731.18 for local families struggling with the financial hardships of dealing with cancer.

The tournament started nearly 10 years ago as a benefit for Dave Keleher, who was battling cancer. Keleher passed away in 2008.

“Just to think that in 2008 Dave couldn't believe that just a few teams would come together to play ball to benefit him,” his family said in a prepared statement. “We didn't just come together to play ball, we came together to help a neighbor, brother and friend.”

Keleher’s family has continued the event as a way to honor him and help local families.

“Now that Dave watches our annual tourney from above, he watches over as community members come to enjoy a great weekend of ball and donate to an organization that helps many families in our community in his honor,” she said.

The tournament included a 50/50 raffle, in which the winner donated the winnings back to “Sports for Cancer.”

The event has raised over $12,000 since it began.

Teams consisted of 10 players and the format was one pitch style.

“Bowling for Cancer” is planned for early December at Market Lanes in Potsdam to raise money for families in need of financial help for cancer-related expenses.