The Friuli-Venezia Giulia government hosted the presentation of the XVII WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Group C at its headquarters in Udine.
Softball is one of the assets of this wealthy north-eastern region of Italy.
Andrea Marcon, the 44-year-old president of the Italian Baseball Federation (FIBS) grew up as a softball fan in Castions di Strada, one of the two venues of the Women's Softball World Cup. He later became an international softball umpire.
"I witnessed the whole event's organization," said Marcon, "I saw it growing. I was impressed by the effort the cities of Buttrio and Castions di Strada put into organizing the event. I noticed how they partnered with Porpetto and Ronchi dei Legionari to guarantee every participant equal training opportunities. It's time to say I'm grateful to the local clubs, the Italian Government Department of Sports, our partners, the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Governor Fedriga. This is a dream come true, and we will make the softball world proud."
"We will be up to the challenge," said deputy governor Mario Anzil. "All the Friuli Venezia Giulia people care for is getting the job done. I expect a lot of positive influence on the future of our softball. The region believes in the value of softball as an asset. In 2024, expect the World Championship stage to be even better."
The Mayor of Buttrio Elano Bassi and the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) Regional Delegate Giorgio Brandolin also participated in the presentation.
The XVII WBSC Women's Softball World Cup-Group C will open on Saturday, 22 July.,
