Veronica Mark knows competition will be tough against Japan’s best softballers, so she’s been doing all she can to prepare for a tournament in August.
That includes practising with the same type of bats and balls used by the Japanese.
“The balls are lighter and bigger, and the bats are skinnier,” Veronica said.
“The Japanese teams are really good. I will learn a lot.”
The 12-year-old plays catcher and sometimes second base, and has been selected to play in the Biwako Open Tournament in Biwako, Japan from August 4-15.
The trip includes cultural experiences. “I’m looking forward to the food – particularly the sushi,” Veronica said.
Organised by Softball NSW, the team of 12 year olds will take on elementary schools from Japan during the challenge. This is the second time Softball NSW has taken a team to Japan to compete, following a successful tour in 2016.
For 12 years the All Elementary Schools have visited Sydney as part of the Blacktown Junior International Challenge.
The Glenbrook youngster plays for Blue Mountains Softball Association and for the past three years has been on representative teams for Penrith City Softball Association.
“I like always being involved in the game and seeing all the possibilities of where the ball will go,” Veronica said.
Blue Mountains Softball Association registrations will be held at Lomatia Park in Springwood on August 5 from 10am-1pm for anyone with questions and collecting uniforms.