The Ray Bussard Invitational, Dec. 21st has been canceled.  And below is the communications we sent all the teams, so I wanted to send to you.  This was a very hard decision to make.

If you have any questions please reach out to me, 865-207-7297.

Coach Jackie Bussard-Bertucci

Dear KISL Swim Team Members, 

We regret to inform you that the Ray Bussard Invitational (RBI) will not occur during the 2024-2025 swim season. This decision was made after careful consideration, and we want to acknowledge the significant efforts of the University of Tennessee staff, the KISL Board, and many dedicated parents and coaches who worked tirelessly to explore every possible solution for the meet to occur.

The chosen date, December 21, 2024, emerged as the most viable option from a very limited set of alternatives. While this date was not ideal for all, we hoped it could accommodate our needs. However, several factors ultimately made hosting the RBI this season impractical:

• Event timing: The proximity of the date to winter break and holidays created scheduling difficulties for families, lifeguards, and other essential personnel for the running of an efficient and effective meet.
• Potential conflicts: The possibility of Knoxville hosting a college football playoff game that same weekend introduced further uncertainty with venue availability not being finalized until days before the intended meet date.
• Consideration for stakeholders: We aimed to respect the time and planning efforts of parents, athletes, coaches, and event staff by avoiding last-minute disruptions or cancellations that could impact plans with family or holiday travel.
• Pool availability: Ongoing area facility closures and the lack of alternative venues suitable for a meet of this size.

Despite the best efforts of everyone involved, these challenges could not be overcome. After evaluating these combined challenges, the KISL Board determined that canceling the RBI for this season was the most responsible course of action.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to ensuring the successful return of the Ray Bussard Invitational in the 2025-2026 swim season. The KISL Board is already exploring alternative meet formats and date options to prevent similar complications in the future.

We deeply appreciate your understanding and continued support as we work to uphold the excellence and tradition of KISL swim meets. If you have any questions or suggestions for future planning, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your patience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the KISL community.

Sincerely,

The KISL Board