by Guisela Chiarella
The Friuli Venezia Giulia region has embraced the international stage with the commencement of the XVII Softball World Cup, running from July 15 to 20. Featuring teams from eight nations, this prestigious event underscores the region’s ambition to establish itself as a premier host of international competitions.
The Softball World Cup, held in Castions di Strada, represents a significant milestone for Friuli Venezia Giulia. Organized by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) in collaboration with the Italian Baseball Softball Federation (FIBS), and supported by the regional government, this year’s tournament is the first to adopt a two-phase format. The region previously hosted one of the qualifying group matches last year, affirming its capability to manage major sporting events.
Group A includes powerhouse teams from Italy, Canada, and the United States, while Group B features Australia, Japan, the Netherlands, and Puerto Rico. The competition promises intense matchups, culminating in the Super Round on July 18 and 19, where the top two teams from each group will vie for positions in the finals. Meanwhile, the remaining teams will compete for final placements ranging from fifth to eighth place.
During an interview, Rachel Garcia, a prominent player from the American team, shared her excitement about the event and praised the local organization. Garcia’s sentiments reflect the broader enthusiasm among participants, highlighting the region’s successful efforts to foster a welcoming and competitive environment.
For more details on the tournament schedule and updates, visit the official FIBS website.
