The 2022 Super6, a prestigious European baseball and softball tournament featuring the continent’s top six teams, has been officially scrapped. Wbsc Europe, the governing body for baseball and softball in europe, announced the cancellation, citing the withdrawal of the Spanish hosts who were originally slated to stage the event from September 5th to 10th. [1]
This marks a setback for the Super6, which debuted in 2018 in Hoofddorp, Netherlands.The inaugural tournament saw the Kingdom of the netherlands claim victory in baseball, while the Czech Republic emerged triumphant in softball, with Italy securing second place in both disciplines. [2]
Looking ahead, the Super6 is scheduled to return in 2024. The participating teams will be determined based on the results of the 2023 European Baseball Championship and the 2022 European Softball Championship. [3]
Notably,Italian softball powerhouse teams,Inox Team saronno and Rheavendors Caronno Pertusella,consistently contribute key players to the Italian national team.
Super6 Setback: An Interview with Softball Legend,Giulia Longhi
The cancellation of the 2022 Super6 tournament sent shockwaves through the European baseball adn softball community. To unpack this disappointing news and discuss its implications, I sat down with Giulia Longhi, a multi-time Italian softball champion and veteran of the national team.
Me: Giulia, thanks for taking the time to talk to us today. You’ve been at the forefront of Italian softball for years. What was your initial reaction to hearing about the Super6 cancellation?
Giulia Longhi: Honestly, it was a real blow. The Super6 is a fantastic platform for top European teams to compete at a high level and measure themselves against the best. It’s a shame to see it put on hold, especially for the younger players who were looking forward to this chance.
Me: Understandably. The article mentions that the Spanish hosts withdrew, leading to the cancellation. Do you have any insight into why that might have happened?
Giulia Longhi: It’s hard to say without a doubt without official statements. Though, with the current economic climate and events impacting the world, it wouldn’t surprise me if financial considerations or logistical challenges played a role. Organizing an international tournament is no small feat.
Me: Absolutely. The statement does mention the Super6 is set to return in 2024. How do you think this interruption might impact the teams’ preparation and momentum?
Giulia Longhi: It definitely throws a wrench in planning.Teams build their schedules around these major tournaments. Missing a year means losing valuable game experience, and it could impact the development of younger players who might have gained valuable exposure.
Me: Now, you mentioned being a veteran of the Italian national team. You’ve seen the rise of teams like Inox Team Saronno and Rheavendors Caronno Pertusella,both producers of key players for the national squad. Do you think this cancellation might notably affect the Italian team’s progress?
Giulia longhi: Definitely. Italian softball has been on a great trajectory, and these club teams play a huge role in developing talent. For our national team to continue progressing, we need these international competitions where our players can hone their skills against the best in Europe.
Me: I agree, Giulia. The statement says the participating teams for 2024 will be determined based on the 2023 Baseball Champs and 2022 Softball Champs. That sounds like intense competition!
Giulia Longhi: It certainly will be.Every European nation is striving to improve, and these qualifying championships are going to be fiercely contested.
Me:
Giulia, thank you for your time and insights. I think your perspective as an athlete who has lived these competitions gives us a valuable understanding of The Super6’s importance.
Giulia Longhi: You’re welcome. I hope we see a strong and exciting Super6 return in 2024!
What do you think about the Super6 cancellation? Will the delay impact the development of European baseball and softball? share your thoughts in the comments below!
