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OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Freshman utility player Jenica Silvas and the U-18 Mexico National Softball Team will compete in the World Baseball Softball Confederation's (WBSC) U-18 Women's Softball World Cup from Sept. 27 through Oct. 1 at Devon Park, also home to the prestigious NCAA Women's College World Series and LA28 Olympic Games. 

The international tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups. Group A includes Canada, China, Chinese Taipei, and the USA, while Group B features Czechia, Japan, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Following two days of Opening Round play, the top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Round, with the World Championship Final scheduled for Oct. 1. All games will be streamed live on GameTime.

For Silvas and her teammates, the World Cup represents an opportunity to secure Mexico's first-ever title and medal. While the tournament has historically been dominated by the USA (8 titles), Japan (5 titles), and China (1 title), Team Mexico has the potential to compete at the highest level.

"Staying aggressive and working together is going to really benefit us out on the field," Silvas said. "Although language barriers sometimes make it difficult to bond, I feel like we already have that connection and are ready to showcase it out on the field."

Coach Jorge Araujo, who has served as the associate head coach for Titans Softball and head coach of the Mexico National Team, first identified the Twentynine Palms native's potential at the Triple Crown International Challenge in Colorado, a showcase event allowing U.S.-born players to represent their heritage. 

In 2024, Silvas joined Araujo and his Mexico National Team in Puerto Rico, where they took gold at the International Challenger. 

"Jenica has been part of the process for a couple of years now, and Puerto Rico was one of the places where we identified her," Araujo said. "She did well, and at that point, I knew she would definitely be a big piece for the junior team. She's got a big role to play."

Silvas is particularly comfortable in the shortstop position, where she excels as a vocal leader on the field. Her ability to control the game and communicate effectively with her teammates has made her a key contributor to her teams' successes.

"Shortstop is my go-to," Silvas said. "I am most comfortable on the left side of the field, and I love talking and being in control." 

Beyond her skills, Silvas credits former Titans Softball star and now professional softball player Daisy Muñoz with teaching a sense of discipline and attention to detail to the finer aspects of the game in her early years with Team Mexico. 

"Daisy definitely did not take it easy on me at first," Silvas said. "I remember a specific play where I threw a ball low to her from second to first base, and she said, 'Hey! Get it up!' That really pushed me to step up my game."

"She is such a leader on the field," Muñoz said. "Although she was one of our youngest, she was not afraid to show up and show who she was. As an infielder, it's always good to have a shortstop who can be in command, and she did that without realizing." 

The ability to represent Mexico on the international stage is something Silvas cherishes deeply. Her grandparents, who immigrated from Chihuahua, Mexico, instilled in her a deep pride in her heritage, which continues to fuel her ambition.

"My grandparents immigrated here from Chihuahua, Mexico, and seeing the love my mom has for them and the love I have for my mom, I just want to do it for them," Silvas said.

Araujo recognizes the impact that international competition leaves on younger players like Silvas. 

"The World Games showcase the best players from each country. It gives us an idea of what's ahead in the future of not just Team Mexico, but the talent coming through the pipeline," Araujo said. "Jenica's grit to beat every pitch, every ground ball, or make sure she is running a full 60 feet prove how her presence and leadership skills will benefit her when playing internationally and collegiately."

Silvas is part of a growing legacy of Titans Softball athletes who have represented international teams. Alongside current teammates Alexia Lopez and Sarah Perez, as well as former Titans Muñoz and Jessi Alcala, Silvas continues to elevate the program's reputation.

"Playing internationally is somewhat different compared to collegiate softball, and she was able to adapt very well," Munoz said. "She has such an amazing attitude and is so fun to play with, I cannot wait to step on the same field with her again soon." 

Silvas will be supported by her mom, dad, and stepmom as Mexico looks for a historic run at the World Cup Finals. Mexico's first game is scheduled against Puerto Rico on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 9:00 a.m. PST. 

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