NEGROS Occidental-based softbelles, Negros First Softball Team, representing the Philippines and Asia-Pacific, will take on Florida-based Southeast squad when they open their 2018 Junior League Softball World Series in Everest Ballpark in Kirkland, Washington.
Multi-titled Coach Antonio Oquindo Jr. said it would be a tough task for the team, which traveled 16 hours to reach Kirkland with the nation's pride in their shoulder.
"We are thankful to the Filipino community here who took care and fed our players. We are also grateful to the help of Governor Alfredo Maranon Jr., Nonong Verdeflor, and the Department of Education-Negros Occidental for helping us reach the World Series," he said.
Despite the physical disadvantage, Oquindo said the team is well-prepared for the competition. "Our players have undergone tough qualifying games in the Philippines and Singapore ahead of the World Series. I think our players are ready for this challenge," he added.
The Negrense squad will compete with international teams from Canada, Italy (representing Europe-Africa) and Puerto Rico – representing Latin America, and the United States teams including Ohio (Central), Texas (Southwest), Utah (West), Rhode Island (East) and host, Redmond West.
The Negrense batters will face the host squad later today.
