When Puerto Rico opens their WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup Finals campaign on July 15th in Italy, facing the Netherlands, they will enter the tournament as one of the top contenders.
Their impressive performance in last year’s Women’s Softball World Cup Group B, where they finished with a 5-1 record and impressive stats, has propelled them to the No. 2 spot in the WBSC/KONAMI Women’s Softball World Ranking. Their victory at the Pan American Championship further solidified their position.
“Being ranked No. 2 feels great,” said Puerto Rico’s head coach, David Santos. “Our main goal, however, is to win the World Cup. We are determined to give our all on the field to bring joy to our people back home as Puerto Rico has never medaled in team sports world competitions.”
Group B of the WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup Finals 2024 promises fierce competition. Following their match against the Netherlands, Puerto Rico will face Japan and Australia on July 16 and 17, respectively.
Coach Santos emphasized the importance of facing strong opponents, stating that “to be the best, you have to beat the best.” He believes that his team’s unity and attitude will be their strongest assets and acknowledges the skill of their competitors.
“Unfortunately, we will be without Aminah Vega, our starting shortstop, due to an injury she sustained during her college season at Duke University in the United States. We may also need to make adjustments to our pitching staff,” Santos revealed.
“Nevertheless, we have a deep pool of talent and have put in the work to perform at a high level. I am confident that we will field a team on par with last year’s success.”
The Softball Federation of Puerto Rico oversees a high-performance Women’s Softball League with 12 teams, development programs for various age groups, and a U-22 league in the off-season.
Coach Santos, who prioritizes his family roles before his coaching duties, has been leading Puerto Rico’s Women’s Softball National Team since 2021 and has been the technical director of the Puerto Rico Softball Federation since 2009. He also serves as a pastor and has been coaching softball since 2002.
Puerto Rico will prepare for the Finals in Italy by competing in an international tournament alongside other Women’s Softball World Cup Finalists. More details and the schedule will be announced soon.
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