Manila softbelles take crack at WS

MANILA, Philippines - Team Manila-Philippines goes for history as it shoots for a first-ever crown in the Little League World Series Championship slated Aug. 2-10 in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The Manila Softbelles, who earned the right to represent the Asia Pacific Region after ruling the Big League Softball Division in Bacolod City recently, finished third in the World Series Championship in 2001 and 2005 while finishing first runner-up in the 2008 and 2010 editions of the annual tournament.

Manila Little League Charter officials Rafael “Che” Borromeo and Rey Riesa believe that the team is capable of winning the title in this year’s edition but they would need all the financial support particularly from the government and private corporate sectors.

“We are still short of funds to cover the expenses for the said event which include air transportation, food and lodging fees,” said delegation head Borromeo. “While the government agencies and top business sectors support some team sports that are yet to qualify in world competitions, Team Manila-Philippines had been competing and would compete anew for the World Series and has a strong chance to win the title. That’s why we are appealing to all sectors for their assistance.”

Team Manila-Philippines-Big League Softball Division (16-18 years old) is composed of Veronica Belleza (pitcher), Annalie Benjamen (pitcher/2nd base), Glesyl Opjer (pitcher/outfield), Michelle Lentija (pitcher/2nd base), Chariz Palma (catcher), Cindy Carol Banay (short stop), Gene Joy Parilla (outfielder), Rizza Bernardino (pitcher/first base), Francesca Altamonte, Chichiro Bamba, Laura Victoria Lehmann and Maria Isabel Gabriela Trinidad. Coaches are Anna Maria Santiago, Carmelita Velasco, Sheirylon Valenzuela and Randy Dizer.