College Travel: Post-Realignment Adjustments
- The landscape of college sports has shifted dramatically,and with it,the challenges of travel have intensified.
- Oregon State baseball experienced a notably brutal travel day after a series at Nebraska. A delayed flight and a comedy of errors left the team hungry and exhausted,according...
- simultaneously occurring, UCLA women's soccer, now in the Big Ten, is grappling with coast-to-coast flights.
College sports are undergoing a radical shift, and the impact on travel is significant.Oregon State baseball and UCLA women’s soccer are at the forefront, navigating arduous journeys and new logistical hurdles due to realignment. These adjustments are crucial for maintaining peak performance. Discover how teams are using data to manage athlete fatigue and recovery amid increased travel demands, including remote learning solutions that ease academic burdens. The Pac-12 dissolution presented unique challenges, as the Bruins face coast-to-coast flights in the Big Ten. News Directory 3 provides insights into the innovative strategies athletic programs are implementing. Learn from coach Mitch Canham’s experience with delayed flights and remote learning that facilitates athlete well-being. Discover what’s next in the evolving landscape of college sports.
College Sports Realignment: Travel Takes a Toll
Updated May 29,2025
The landscape of college sports has shifted dramatically,and with it,the challenges of travel have intensified.
For teams like Oregon State baseball and UCLA women’s soccer, the realities of realignment mean longer trips and
new logistical hurdles. These programs are adapting to ensure their athletes can compete at the highest level
despite the increased demands.
Oregon State baseball experienced a notably brutal travel day after a series at Nebraska. A delayed flight
and a comedy of errors left the team hungry and exhausted,according to coach Mitch Canham. The team’s
independent schedule, a result of the Pac-12’s dissolution, presents unique challenges.
simultaneously occurring, UCLA women’s soccer, now in the Big Ten, is grappling with coast-to-coast flights. Coach Margueritte
Aozasa noted the increased fatigue among her players. The team uses GPS wearables and readiness surveys to
monitor the impact of travel and adjust recovery strategies.
Despite the challenges,Aozasa remains optimistic. She noted that remote learning has made it easier for
athletes to keep up with their studies while on the road. Additionally,she highlighted the unique
experiences her players have gained by traveling to new parts of the country.
“We’re trying to get a sandwich right before we get on the plane, because we haven’t eaten and they just start
going at each other,” Canham said. “One guy is like, ‘I quit.’ And we say, “No, not yet, man. How about we
get 30 sandwiches real swift and then you quit?'”
What’s next
As college sports realignment continues to reshape the athletic landscape, teams will need to prioritize athlete
well-being and adapt to the evolving challenges of travel. Data-driven recovery strategies and flexible
academic support will be crucial for success.