2021 Predictions: Will we make it all the way to the NCAA national championships without the season getting canceled?

There’s less than a week left until the start of the long-awaited 2021 season. While this year may look a bit different than we’re used to, the gymnastics is still the same—and it wouldn’t be a new season without some predictions. Taking a page out of The Athletic’s book, we’ll be answering one pressing question over the course of 10 days as we gear up for the first meet. Check out the previous days’ questions and predictions here.

Will we make it all the way to the NCAA national championships without the season getting canceled?

Winner: Yes (12 votes)

Elizabeth: I say yes. There are a number of factors that will line up and make it happen, including the vaccine, as well as the coaches seeming adamant that they don’t want a repeat of last year.

Talitha: Probably yes—hopefully without too many scary moments and cancellations…

Katherine: I think so. I expect plenty of regular season cancellations and at least one cancelled conference championship, but I think the national championships is happening come hell or high water. 

Katie: Yes, I think we will make it to the national championships. However, cancelled meets and last minute lineup changes will be more apparent than ever. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see some of the lower or unranked teams turn down competing at regionals or conference championships to avoid catching COVID. Many college football teams have recently turned down competing in bowl games.

Emily M: Yeah, but I’m kind of mad about it. Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad to have gymnastics to watch, but at what cost, right?

Brandis: Optimistically yes, but not without plenty of bumps in the road along the way.

Mary Emma: I think yes. Football is still plugging along despite the obstacles, and the trajectory of the pandemic seems more and more optimistic every day.

Jenna: Yes. With the vaccine being rolled out and with the college football season wrapping up, I don’t think we’ll see the college gymnastics season canceled at any point. I’m sure there will be plenty of canceled meets, though.

Izzi: Yes, but I think it will be very rocky.

Tara: Yes. While there will likely be obstacles, we’ve seen other college sports trucking along despite those. It’ll be different and teams will have to adapt, but I think we’ll make it to the end.

Claire: Yes, but… I’m steeling myself for lots of anxiety, frustration and heartbreak. 

Kalley: Yes, but I think it will look very different with a lot of canceled meets along the way.

Article by Elizabeth Grimsley, Talitha Ilacqua, Katherine Weaver, Katie Walsh, Emily Minehart, Brandis Heffner, Tara Graeve, Mary Emma Burton, Jenna King, Izzi Baskin, Claire Billman and Kalley Leer

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