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UCLA (Women):
Since the Los Angeles wildfires began several weeks ago, the ITA has kept open communication with the host institutions of Pepperdine, UCLA, and USC and the nine teams set to compete at their sites. Last Thursday, the ITA office arranged calls for hosts to share vital information and address any questions or concerns from the participating teams.
Based on the information provided by the host institutions related to air quality, travel logistics, and their ability to conduct a safe and fair event, the ITA decided on Friday of last week to move forward with play at each of the three host sites as originally scheduled. Subsequently, the University of Central Florida and Columbia University withdrew from the UCLA regional citing concerns related to travel to the affected region. While disappointed, the ITA understands the concerns of these institutions and the unique pressures that athletic administrations face in making these types of decisions.
The ITA attempted but was unsuccessful in acquiring replacement teams this close to the tournament. The ITA Kickoff Weekend Regional at UCLA now consists of only one match – between UCLA and Washington – on Saturday, January 25 at 1:00 pm PT.
Pepperdine (Women):
Due to severe winter weather in the Southeast, Florida State has withdrawn from the ITA Women’s Kickoff Weekend regional hosted at Pepperdine University. Following their withdrawal, the Pepperdine Regional was reseeded by the ITA Division I National Tournament Committee. Pepperdine will now receive a bye into the finals and Georgia Tech and Arizona will play each other in the first round.
The new schedule is:
Fri., Jan. 24 – 1:00 pm: Arizona vs Georgia Tech
Sat., Jan. 25 – 1:00 pm (Championship): Pepperdine vs TBD (Georgia Tech or Arizona)
Florida State (Men):
Due to severe winter weather in the Southeast restricting flights, UNC Wilmington has withdrawn from the ITA Men’s Kickoff Weekend regional hosted at Florida State University. The ITA was able to identify North Florida as a replacement team.
Updated Schedule:
Fri., Jan. 24 – 2:00 pm: South Carolina vs San Diego
Fri., Jan. 24 – 5:00 pm: Florida State vs North Florida
Sat., Jan. 25 – 2:00 pm: Consolation
Sat., Jan. 25 – 5:00 pm: Championship
