WBSC U-18 Women's Softball World Cup Finals officially opened

The Opening Ceremony of the WBSC U-18 Women's Softball World Cup Finals took place on Saturday at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, USA in front of approximately 2,500 softball fans. During the ceremony, WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari and USA Softball CEO Craig Cress opened the event at Devon Park.

"It is a true privilege to be here at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, in this beautiful and historic stadium," said Fraccari during his address. "This venue is one of the most iconic in the world of softball. And in less than three years, it will welcome the Olympic Games as the host of the LA28 softball competition. This will add yet another chapter to the legendary history and legacy of this field and of our sport."

President Fraccari also stressed the importance of this event for the development of softball across the years. "Throughout this tournament’s 44-year history, this competition has been the starting point for so many international stars," he said. "Of the 90 athletes who played at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, 46 first competed in this event. Today, 128 athletes take the field. I cannot wait to see how many of you will be back here in 2028, under the five Olympic Rings."

With all eight teams on the field, Cress welcomed them to Oklahoma City and invited the fans to keep coming to Devon Park. "I'd like to welcome everyone to the Softball Capital World. It's going to be a great week of softball," he said. "We look forward to the next decade, as we continue to host many, many high level events. We know the Olympics are going to be here in about three years. However, I'm very proud to say that USA Softball hosts up to over 30 events a year in this facility." 

During the ceremony, the Oklahoma City Native Dance Troupe represented the traditions of Native American culture with different dancing styles and songs.