Pepperdine Sports Persevere Amidst Malibu Wildfire Challenges
written by a member of the WCB
In recent weeks, the Pepperdine University community has faced significant challenges due to the devastating wildfires sweeping through the greater Los Angeles area, including Malibu. Despite these obstacles, the resilience of the Pepperdine Waves, particularly the women's basketball team, shines through as they navigate an unpredictable season.
The impact of the wildfires on Pepperdine's athletic programs became evident when the women's basketball team had to postpone their game against Portland, originally scheduled for a Thursday night at Firestone Field House on the Malibu campus. This decision came as part of broader safety measures, with the university canceling classes and restricting access to its coastal campus.
However, the Waves are not letting these setbacks dampen their spirit. The team is set to face Pacific in Stockton before welcoming the Portland Pilots back to Malibu for a rescheduled match. This resilience reflects the broader Pepperdine community's response to the crisis.
University President Jim Gash highlighted the extraordinary support and sacrifice witnessed during this challenging time. "Moments like this define who we are at Pepperdine, the deep connections we share, and the strength we draw from those bonds," Gash stated.
Pepperdine has taken a proactive role in supporting both its community and the wider Malibu area. The university's Malibu campus has become a strategic staging site for local relief efforts. It has hosted the City of Malibu's Emergency Operations Committee and provided space for SoCalGas to establish an incident command center, facilitating quicker responses to affected neighborhoods.
In a show of solidarity and support, Pepperdine has initiated several programs to aid those affected by the fires:
1. The Pepperdine Strong Fund was created to assist students, staff, and faculty members facing loss and displacement.
2. The Caruso School of Law is setting up pro bono legal clinics to provide disaster relief assistance, helping residents with FEMA claims and insurance issues.
3. The university's Student Health Center and Counseling Center have remained open, offering medical and mental healthcare services, including access through the Timelycare App.
As the Waves prepare for their upcoming games, they're not just playing for victories on the court. They're embodying the resilience and community spirit that defines Pepperdine during this challenging time. The rescheduled game against Portland, when it happens, will be more than just a basketball match – it will be a symbol of Pepperdine's ability to overcome adversity.
For fans planning to attend future games, the university has announced a special initiative. The first 50 fans at an upcoming contest against Portland will receive a free Pepperdine belt bag, adding a touch of school spirit to the community's recovery efforts.
While the wildfires have undoubtedly disrupted the normal flow of campus life and athletic schedules, they have also highlighted the strength and unity of the Pepperdine community. As the Waves continue their season, they carry with them the support and resilience of a community that has faced challenges head-on and emerged stronger.
The story of Pepperdine's response to the wildfires goes beyond sports, touching on themes of community service, educational commitment, and the power of coming together in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder that while natural disasters can disrupt our plans, they can also reveal the best in our communities.
As Pepperdine moves forward, the women's basketball team and the entire athletic department stand as symbols of the university's unwavering spirit. Their perseverance on and off the court reflects the broader community's determination to overcome challenges and support one another through difficult times.