Some of the best college softball teams in the country were in action this weekend at the 2024 Clearwater Invitational.

A total of 16 teams, 40 games were scheduled over four days, and 22 of those games would be aired on ESPN channels. A few top-five matchups are on the schedule, including No. 2 Tennessee vs. No. 3 Stanford on Friday afternoon.

Five participating teams — Florida State, Oklahoma State, Stanford, Tennessee and Washington — advanced to the Women's College World Series last year, so this should be a highly competitive event.

The highly anticipated Clearwater Invitational NCAA Softball Event, slated to showcase top collegiate softball talent, faced an unexpected setback as rain poured down relentlessly, leading to the cancellation of several games. Held at the Eddie C. Moore Complex in Clearwater, Florida, the event had drawn attention from fans and scouts alike, promising exciting matchups and competitive play. However, nature had other plans.

Scheduled to span several days, the tournament featured teams from various universities competing in a series of games. With the Clearwater Invitational being a prestigious event in the collegiate softball calendar, teams had been preparing diligently, aiming to make their mark early in the season. Yet, despite the efforts of organizers and participants, the relentless rainfall proved insurmountable.

The decision to cancel games was made with the safety of players and spectators in mind. Softball, like many outdoor sports, requires optimal weather conditions for fair and safe play. The risk of injury due to slippery conditions on the field, coupled with the potential for lightning strikes in the area, left organizers with no choice but to prioritize the well-being of all involved.

For the athletes, coaches, and fans eagerly anticipating the competition, the cancellation undoubtedly brought disappointment. Months of training and anticipation culminated in this event, only to be thwarted by forces beyond anyone's control. Nevertheless, resilience is inherent in sports, and while this setback may be disheartening, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor events.