The Philadelphia Force of National Pro Fastpitch has announced the signing free agent, Melissa Ramirez. Ramirez is a native of Chula Vista, California and is a recent graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In 2006, Ramirez will make her debut as a professional softball player with the Force.

The third baseman out of UTC finished her career ranked first in home runs (25), RBI (178), hits (286), doubles (63) and total bases (423). Ramirez struck out only 47 times in 902 plate appearances during her collegiate career. In 2004, as a junior, Ramirez finished the season ranked sixth in the nation for Division 1 softball players in the Toughest to Strikeout category.

Ramirez feels that her experience at UTC has definitely prepared her to play at the next level. “At UTC we played a tough schedule, played in some big tournaments each year and competed in the NCAA regionals three out of the four years that I attend UTC. We faced a lot of the top teams, which also meant the top pitchers. UTC has an awesome softball facility, both outside and inside, so being able to workout all the time certainly improved my game.”

Although Ramirez aspires to be a firefighter someday, her real dream was always to play professional softball. “It has always been a dream of mine to play after college. When I finally realized it happened, I was speechless. Now I’m anxious and excited to get going to prove I can play at the next level.”

Don’t miss Melissa Ramirez and the rest of the Force on opening day, June 7, 2006 against the Connecticut Brakettes at ECTB Stadium at Bicentennial Field in Allentown, Pennsylvania. According to Ramirez, one thing you will be certain to see is “intensity, 110% effort from each of us athletes on and off the field.”

For more information visit www.philadelphiaforce.com.

Press Contact: Jennifer Carlo, Assistant GM or (215) 441-8600 x303.

Photo Credit: UTC Athletic Department