AFTER its exemplary performance in local tournaments and a strong finish as a guest team in the 2017 Inter-Collegiate Girls Softball Championships held last April in Marikina, Team Manila has formed a formidable line up that will battle the world’s best 18-under batters when they see action in the prestigious 2017 PONY International 18-U Girls Softball World Series to be held on July 24 to 30 at Hemet, California, USA.
Participants of this event are the elite Girls’ teams from around the US, Europe, Caribbean and Asia.
This will only be the second time that the Philippines or Asia will be sending a girls’ softball team to this World Series after Team Manila qualified to represent the country in the event.
The Big City softbelles, backed by Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Philippine Airlines, and the International Container Terminal Services Inc., is composed of the finest from UAAP 7-peat champions Adamson University, National University, Ateneo de Manila University, Makati and Bulacan.
Expected to deliver are Team Manila – Philippines’ upcoming young stars led by short stops Mary Nichole Padasas of Adamson and Angelu Gabriel of Fort Bonifacio High School, pitcher Alma Tauli and 3rd baseman Madelene Domaug of Fortunato Halili National Agricultural School, and right fielder Krisha Cantor of Adamson.
Three standout pitchers, led by Tauli, Shirlette Maygay of Adamson and Mery Ann Ramos of NU will power Team Manila – Philippines, which is gearing up with a series of grueling practice games with the national youth and seniors teams.
Team Manila softball president Rafael “Che” Borromeo is upbeat of their chances in the World Series.
“I think this is quite a strong team and the girls will give a good account of themselves in the World Series,” said Borromeo.
“Tingin ko mas buo at malakas ang team na ito, pinaghalong beterano at rookies. Malaki ang tsansa natin na makalaro ng championship game,” said head coach Anna Santiago, the multi-titled coach of Adamson and head coach of the national team, who will be assisted by Sheirylou Valenzuela.
Completing its powerhouse roster are 1st baseman Honey Grace Alegarme, catchers Aliza Pichon and Shaina Camacho of Adamson, pitcher and 3rd baseman Kevyn Anne Lacson of Ateneo, pitcher and 2nd baseman Marie Therese Macasaet of St. Pedro Poveda College, pitcher and 3rd baseman Mariana Solitaria of Beacon Academy, left fielder Jojielyn Lim of Fortunato Halili National School, and center fielder Marie Christine Bautista of Fort Bonifacio High School.