http://67.225.139.201/baguio/national-softball-tourney-slated-may

PROVINCIAL teams are expected to give Metro Manila teams a run for their money in the Summer Grandslam IV - 2010 National Softball Open Championships slated May 1 to 7 in Baguio City.

National teams which includes 2009 champion Air Force and other provincial teams are expected to suit up in the weeklong tournament organized by the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines.

Coinciding with the tournament is the election of officers of Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil), the national sports association for softball, headed by Jean Henri Lhuiller.

Baguio teams are also expected to suit up in an effort to reclaim the city’s lost glory in the diamond.

The women’s side will also see action in the tournament which aims to help sustain the promotion of softball in the country.

Organizers are hopeful more teams from the provinces will join just like the one held last year in Pasig City.

Air Force easily beat Taguig, 7-3, to win last year’s tournament, which attracted 27 teams.

The Legends of Pampanga took the national championship on its very first try by defeating Adamsom-Manila.

Air Force already confirmed it would be back to defend its crown but the Legends teams will not be joining as most of their players are playing in Brunei.

The Blu Girls, currently preparing for the Asian Games later this year, will be competing in the men’s division as a guest team as part of their training.

For inquiries contact Jun Veloso at 571 1211, 0916 4938937, and 0922 5204062, or email Asaphil at asaphil2006@yahoo.com.ph.(Roderick Osis)