U.S. coach Ken Eriksen was excited for his team after a 3-0 defeat of Australia for the 2012 World Cup of Softball championship. The team will seek to carry its winning feeling into the ISF Women's World Championship, which begins July 13 and ends July 22.
Eriksen said he was happy not only with outcome of the game but the experience his team gained in the tournament. The U.S. did not lose a game in the World Cup.
“I think it sets up real well because a lot of people got a lot of playing time,” said Eriksen. “If they want to be recognized as a group, that is a really good group, then they have to stick together.”
DESMOND MASON THROWS FIRST PITCH
Former Oklahoma State and NBA player Desmond Mason threw out the first pitch before the championship game. Mason said he has been a softball fan since college.
“I watched a lot of softball and baseball when I went to Oklahoma State,” Mason said. “I definitely got out and had a chance to watch some games.”
He said he's had fun watching the state grow with the tournament.
“I think it's a wonderful event, especially for Oklahoma City, not just for this country, not just for the young aspiring softball players around this community but for this state,” Mason said. “This state is progressing very fast and having an event like this here is a good thing.”
