SURREY, B.C. – UIC softball graduate student
Christina Toniolo has been named as one of the 16 players to represent Italy in the 2023 Canada Cup International Softball Championship.
Toniolo qualified for dual citizenship, becoming an Italian citizen through both sets of her grandparents growing up in Italy. This makes her eligible to compete for Italy on the national level. `
"This one is extra special for me because I am also representing my family," Toniolo said. "I am very honored that I was chosen to wear an Italia uniform while doing what I love. Being able to face teams from around the world is an incredible opportunity. Not only will I be playing at the highest level of softball, but I will also be surrounded by an amazing group of teammates."
During her fourth season with the Flames this spring, Toniolo pitched a career-high of 173.2 innings in the circle. She tied for sixth in the Missouri Valley Conference in complete games (10) and ranked 10th in strikeouts (97). She also held the 2023 Women's College World Series champions Oklahoma to two hits in four innings in the circle on March 3.
The 2023 Canada Cup will feature eight teams competing in Surrey. Countries represented at the Canada Cup include Australia, Canada, Greece, Italy, Israel, Japan, and Mexico. After a weekend of exhibitions, the tournament will kick off with a round-robin format, followed by a double elimination tournament based on the team's records in round-robin play. The championship game will take place on July 15 at 6 p.m. PT.
Click here for more information on the
2023 Canada Cup and here if fans are interested to
live stream games.
To stay updated on Christina's performance in international play, follow UIC Softball on Twitter and Instagram @UIC_Softball.
