AS A PRELUDE to the Philippines’ participation in the 2016 World Baseball Qualifier Classic in Sydney next month, the Sydney Blue Sox major league baseball team is holding a ‘Filipino Day at the Baseball’ on Sunday, January 24.
It will be a celebration of Filipino fare at Blacktown Sportspark’s Blue Sox Stadium with food and display stalls, hip-hop dancing, and a mixture of entertainment numbers.
The main event at 4:30pm will be an Australian Major League Baseball (MBL) game between Sydney’s Blue Sox and arch rivals Melbourne Aces.
Playing for the Aces is the only Filipino-Australian in the national MBL competition, second-baseman Jared Cruz, who has been sidelined on the injury but may play on the day.
A Philippine government official will be invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the game.
Two local junior teams will play a curtain-raiser.
The Filipino Support Group coordinator for the day’s activities, Josie Musa, said this was a great opportunity, especially for those not familiar with baseball, to be introduced to the game.
“They will experience watching baseball played not only at the junior level but also at the professional level,” Ms Musa said.
“The experience can prepare us to appreciate and enjoy the participation of the Philippines’ national baseball team at the World Baseball Qualifier Classic next month.
“How fortunate we are that this international event is being held in our backyard.
“What better way to support our kababayans in sport.”
Venue is Blue Sox Stadium, Blacktown Sportspark on Eastern Road, Doonside.
Gates open at 2pm.