Hawai’i pulls out of bowl game due to COVID-19 issues

SimonGibbs_UserImageby:Simon Gibbs•12/23/21•

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The Hawai’i Bowl, featuring the 6-7 Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors and 6-6 Memphis Tigers, has been cancelled primarily due to a COVID-19 outbreak within Hawai’i’s program, according to a release.

Hawai’i’s press release mentioned a combination of COVID-19 issues “along with season-ending injuries and transfers” as reason for the Rainbow Warriors to call the game off. According to Memphis’ Twitter, the Tigers have been in Hawai’i since Dec. 20.

“We are disappointed our season has to end this way,” Rainbow Warriors head coach Todd Graham said in a press release. “As competitive as we are and as much as we want to play the game, we cannot put the health and safety of our student-athletes at risk.”

Following Hawai’i’s decision to pull out of the bowl game, ESPN posted a statement on Twitter Thursday confirming the cancellation of the contest.

“We are aware of the University of Hawaii’s decision not to participate in the 2021 EasyPost Hawai’i Bowl,” ESPN said. “While we are disappointed that the bowl will not be played despite considerable efforts from our many stakeholders, sponsors, supporters and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this game a reality, we thank the University of Memphis program and its fans for making the long trip, and we hope they were able to enjoy the unique experience that this event offers in the Aloha State.

“The health and safety of our student-athletes is the most important part of this decision,” athletic director David Matlin added. “The recent surge in COVID-19 cases has forced us to not participate in the game. We are disappointed for our players, coaches, and fans. ESPN and the EasyPost Hawai’i Bowl staff did everything they could for us and we appreciate their valiant effort throughout the week. We want to thank the Memphis Tigers for making the long trip to Hawai’i. We are disappointed we can’t compete on the football field.”

The Hawai’i Bowl was scheduled to kick off on Friday, Dec. 24 at 8:00 p.m., marking the program’s 10th appearance in its local bowl game. Memphis, on the other hand, was preparing to participate in the program’s eighth consecutive bowl game and second in two years under head coach Ryan Silverfield.