BACOLOD CITY – The Philippines, represented by the softball team of Negros Occidental, clinched the championship in the 2024 PONY Girls Under-16 International World Series held in McAllen, Texas, in the United States on Monday (PH time).
The Filipino squad, composed mostly of players from Sagay City, beat the local Bambinas, 5-2.
“Congratulates to the team for a job well done. We are beaming with so much pride,” Mayor Narciso Javelosa Jr. and Vice Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
The Negrense softbelles ended the tournament undefeated in eight matches.
They also won against Mexico, San Antonio-Texas, Texas Selection, Texas Ball Club, Mayhem-Texas and Culiacan-Mexico.
In the semifinals, they conquered Mexico anew, 4-1, to set up the championship match against the Bambinas.
The Philippines’ pitcher, Nadine Pajotal, was awarded Most Valuable Player.
The team was coached by Rey Fuentes, Marciano Sta. Maria Jr., Rodgen Dolorito and Nelsa Delagente.
Cueva underscored the importance of grassroots sports program.
“We applaud the athletes for their determination. We should continue inspiring youth athletes to discover their sports competency,” he said. (PNA)
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