Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 11)— The Philippine women’s softball team is determined to double down on its preparations for the upcoming World Cup as it also appealed for more support for the sport in the country.
The RP Blu Girls secured a slot in the prestigious tourney after their top four finish in the recently-concluded Asia Cup held in South Korea.
“Kung ano ‘yung ginawa naming hirap before pumunta ng Korea, mas dodoblehin namin ‘yung efforts sa World Cup,” said Ann Antolihao, team captain of the Blu Girls.
“Though ang labo po talaga ng chance pero we will do our best talaga,” she added.
[Translation: Whatever hard training we had before going to Korea, we will double our efforts for the World Cup. It’s a long shot but we will really do our best.]
Cristy Joy Roa, another member of the national team, also expressed hope that softball can gain more recognition in the Philippines.
“Sana isa rin kami sa mga sports at masali kami sa iilan sa mga sports sa Pilipinas na laging binibigyan ng recognition,” Roa said. “Kung ano pa ‘yung kaya namin patunayan sa bansa natin, na kami po nagbibigay din kami ng parangal sa bansa natin.”
[Translation: I hope our sport can be among those always recognized. We’re also bringing glory for the Philippines.]
Currently ranked No. 30 in the world, the Philippines is set to compete against higher-ranked teams Italy, Japan, Canada, Venezuela, and New Zealand in Group C of the tournament.
The group stage will take place on July 11 to 26 in Italy.
CNN Philippines correspondent Pauline Verzosa contributed to this report.
