Why this World Cup can 'leave a lasting legacy' for Colquhoun Park

The slogan ‘#PalmyProud’ is emblazoned on all of the event team’s shirts this week at the U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup.

They certainly have a lot to be proud of.

Colquhoun Park – the home field of the Manawatu Softball Association –  was transformed ahead of the 12 best teams descending on the newly re-developed facility in Palmerston North, New Zealand.

Chairman of the local organizing committee and Palmerston North City Councillor Vaughan Dennison sees this event as the start of something bigger for Colquhoun Park.

“The vision of the board is to deliver a world class event that can leave a lasting legacy for the Manawatu Softball Association to build on,” Dennison said.

“Since being awarded hosting rights in early 2019, Colquhoun Park has had a total overhaul, with the diamonds being re-levelled and sewn, as well as the installation of permanent lighting.”

Bevan Matene is a long-time New Zealand Black Sox representative, part of New Zealand’s coaching staff and holds memories of playing in Palmerston North at the junior level.

“We started coming here with Taranaki through the U/12 and U/14 age groups,” Matene said.

“The facilities are a lot different to when I played here, both fields are immaculate and it’s fantastic to see the best teams in the world here.

“I’d love to see more tournaments here after the World Cup is finished. It’s a great, central location for domestic teams and the facility has come such a long way.”

Teams from all over the world have experienced the world-famous Kiwi hospitality, and traditional Māori culture at the welcome reception and opening ceremony.

“All teams were given a traditional Pōwhiri welcome,”  Mayor of Palmerston North Grant Smith said.

“This was important to welcome the teams and various cultures into our community.”