WBSC Men’s Softball World Championship officially opened in Prague

Celebrating the World Softball Day and in front of a fully packed Svoboda Park, the XVI WBSC Men’s Softball World Championship 2019 was officially declared open today in Prague, Czech Republic. A colourful rounded stage in left field, surrounded by the flags of the 16 participating Nations, witnessed the National Teams parade.

Opening Ceremony – WBSC Men’s Softball World Championship 2019 in Prague, Czech Republic. LIVE: https://t.co/WG8Q3lWTzn pic.twitter.com/fvtmcgIkR8

— WBSC ⚾ (@WBSC) 13 de junio de 2019

The President of the Czech Softball Association, Gabriel Waage, gave the welcome speech to the teams, officials and fans from around the world, and expressed his feelings about this historic moment for Czech softball. “I’m honoured to welcome all of you on this outstanding occasion. On behalf of the Czech Softball association, I’m very happy to introduce you to our country, our hospitality and the beauty of this historical city”.

The President of the Czech Olympic Committee, Mr Jiri Kejval, also addressed the crowd making clear it was a milestone for Czech sports. “It’s a great honour for me to be here in this historic moment, especially when you realize that softball is now an Olympic sport, even in the women’s side. I want to thank the World Baseball Softball Confederation for this idea and opportunity to host the best softball players in the world. I wish the organizers and all the players to have a successful tournament here in the Czech Republic.”

Then WBSC President Fraccari spoke about this historical event. “During the next 11 days of excitement, the spotlight will shine bright on Prague and Havlickuv Brod as softball capitals of the world, as this great country hosts the highest level of international competition for the best players in the world.

“Today we celebrate the World Softball Day. And I can’t find a better way to do it than being here, in the heart of Europe, in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, inaugurating a World Championship in front of a huge crowd of softball lovers”.

Finally, the Mr Kejval declared the WBSC Men’s Softball World Championship officially open.