Softball is going to be reintroduced in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. It was a women’s sport staple of the quadrennial event from 1996 to 2008. It was removed in succeeding Olympics, along with baseball, but returned temporarily for the Tokyo Games. Since then, stakeholders in the sport have battled behind the scenes to restore it to its former glory. For now, they have succeeded.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Blu Girls have finished fourth in the recent Women’s Softball Asia Cup in China. They were set to battle for third place, but inclement weather forced the cancellation of the playoffs. The organizers relied instead on the final team standings, and the Philippines unfortunately was fourth, a spot short of qualifying outright for the World Cup. Nevertheless, the team, supported mightily by Cebuana Lhuillier, is optimistic that things will get even better.
“We were hoping for a podium finish to make it to the World Cup,” said assistant coach and fielding and hitting coach Anthony Santos. “But there’s still a chance we could get a wild card, like last time, when the Asia Cup was held in Korea. It’s not yet sure, but we’ll find a way.”
This coming UAAP season, the national team will be able to scout for new players. There are very few opportunities to do so at the collegiate level in the country. Nevertheless, the current crop has matured enough to carry the sport to the next level. They’ve learned how to deal with diversity, and conditions that are less than ideal.
“The pressure will always be there,” admitted team captain Charlotte Sales. “But over time, I’ve learned how to handle it. I tell myself that I’ve been playing this sport for a long time, and I can do it.”
The Philippine Blu Girls have lofty goals. A very strong fielding team, they are not working to upgrade. Their hitting as well. Size is not that big of a factor in softball, and the players have the speed and ability to play great defense on the field. All they are waiting for is a chance to get onto the biggest stage, and show what they can do. With their sponsors like Cebuana Lhuillier, and the support of the government, they will continue to make us proud.