Player dedication means New Zealand will be represented at this year's world softball championships in Venezuela.

Late last year it looked like New Zealand would have to withdraw from the tournament - the first time a world championship would not have a New Zealand side in attendance - when the International Softball Federation
switched the championship venue from Oklahoma City in the United States to Caracas in Venezuela. The switch could have potentially added an extra $100,000 to the White Sox travel costs and given the programme is
predominantly self funded, the players contribution would have increased considerably.

While the players were aware of the cost to them in their feedback they showed their willingness to make it happen.

"It is certainly good news," Softball New Zealand general manager Dane Dougan said.

"What came through in the player feedback was their strong desire to go and the importance for the team to be there. They certainly made it clear even though they knew there would be some cost to them. You really have to admire them for that."

The combination of that dedication and being able to source some cheaper airfares has meant the side will be going with the players contributing little more than what they would have had to for Oklahoma.

The team for the tournament, which is from June 23 to July 2, is expected to be named before the end of the week.

"This is so they have the time to organize the funds they need. While we are hopeful of some sponsorship the players are going to need to be able to make their contribution as well."