Written by Abbigail Crocker

Across the state, extreme weather conditions are significantly impacting Harding sports.  Following the winter storm that swept through the Midwest last week, many Harding sports games were either postponed or outright canceled. From indoor activities like basketball, to outdoor games such as baseball and softball, the unpredictable weather is affecting all aspects of the athletic schedule.

For instance, the Harding Women’s basketball team was set to face East Central Thursday, Feb. 20. However, the game was rescheduled to allow the East Central team, traveling from Ada, Oklahoma, an extra day to ensure safe travel. 

Women’s basketball coach Tim Kirby commented on how the weather affected the team’s routine and schedule. 

“The weather has changed our schedule a little but really hasn’t affected us too much,” Kirby said. “We moved our games back a day and practiced a little earlier than our normal times. We would rather not have to change our routine but it hasn’t been much different this week.” 

Additionally, Coach Kirby mentioned the lack of student participation this season.

“We would love to see Rhodes Field House full of students this weekend,” Kirby said. “We haven’t had very good student participation this year because of a few conflicts that have affected us. One of the conflicts is club sports scheduled during our games. Maybe playing on Friday can help with that conflict.”

Outdoor sports, like baseball, are more directly impacted by the weather. With heavy rain, snow and ice affecting Searcy, the fields and outdoor facilities have become unplayable. Coach Harrison Heffley commented on the weather.

 “The weather’s primary effect on the baseball team is that it has forced us to practice inside,” Harrison said. “Luckily, we have a group of guys that get after it no matter the time, place, or weather! We have had to cancel our scheduled Tuesday game against Ouachita, and our weekend games have been postponed from Fri/Sat to Sun/Mon. It was partially due to road conditions, but the main reason was the abnormally low temperatures and unplayable fields. We’d be closer to playing hockey than playing baseball if we tried to play on our field right now! We are hoping to make up the cancelled game at some point later this season.”

As the winter weather continues to disrupt schedules, Harding’s teams are adapting and pushing forward. While it’s a challenge, the commitment of the athletes and coaching staff ensures that, even with the weather’s setbacks, the spirit of Harding sports remains strong. We can only hope for better conditions in the weeks ahead to allow these athletes to showcase their talents and compete as planned.