Despite the lack of UCLA sporting events over the summer, there is much for the spectator to enjoy on and around the UCLA campus during the summer.
The Countrywide Classic
This annual tennis tournament is usually headlined by some big names in the tennis world. This year, James Blake, Tommy Haas, Fernando Gonzalez and Andy Murray are among those already committed for the tournament, which will take place from July 16-22 at the Los Angeles Tennis Center (located on Bruin Walk just east of De Neve Plaza). There are usually merchandise stations and games set up within the entrance, including a serving game, where you can see how fast your serve is.
Besides all the side action, there is the tennis itself. Last year, the tournament was very competitive, before eventual champion Haas outlasted surprise finalist Dmitry Tursunov to take the trophy.
And if you can’t afford to go into the LATC, you can stand on Bruin Walk and catch a glimpse of the action.
SayNo Basketball League
Typically, most of the younger UCLA players play in this summer league where they compete against plenty of other southland players. Last year, Russell Westbrook and James Keefe were among those participating.
This year, incoming recruit Chace Stanback is likely to play in the summer league, although it is doubtful that star recruit Kevin Love will be competing in the league.
This league, which is essentially run-and-gun play without much organization on defense, would not be conducive to Love’s style of play. In fact, it does little for these players besides getting them familiar with playing with each other and keeping them in shape.
Still, it is a fun way to get a glimpse of the players who will be competing for the basketball team in the winter. The league usually lasts most of the summer, and more information can be found at saynoclassic.com.
European soccer teams
Last year, British soccer team Chelsea spent a week in Westwood practicing for a friendly against an American team. Chelsea used the Intramural Field to practice, and between their practices they were willing to sign autographs for a throng of fans waiting on Bruin Walk. Two years ago, Real Madrid had a summer friendly against the Los Angeles Galaxy. There is a decent chance that this year another European team could show up in Southern California.
Football practice
Typically, UCLA football practice starts in early August. This is the first opportunity to see the new recruits in Bruin uniforms and see how the team is shaping up for the start of the year. Usually, the team has at least one open practice, as well as the fall scrimmage at the end, which is open to all fans.
There is much to be excited about for UCLA students over the summer, despite the major sports being in their deep summer hibernation. Go outside. See what’s going on.