To say the LA fires have been devastating would be an understatement. The area devastated by the fires that started in the Pacific Palisades has burned through 12,000 structures, leaving tens of thousands homeless. To put things into perspective, the area scorched by the fires is three times the size of Manhattan, according to WIFR. So, amid this epic disaster, UCLA Gymnastics has paid tribute to the ones who risked it all to save as many as they could.

“Wearing red and black ribbons, symbolizing the #ThinRedLine of Courage, to support and thank the firefighters from @losangelesfiredepartment and @lacountyfd for working tirelessly during the wildfires to keep our areas safe. Thank you is simply not enough. #LAStrong” posted the official UCAL Gymnastics page, thanking the brave souls who battled the flames.

The accompanying images showed exactly how the gymnasts paid tribute to the LA firefighters as part of their uniforms. The photos featuring Katelyn Rosen, Mika Webster-Longin, Carrisa Clay, and Clara Wren showed the gymnasts wearing red and black ribbons as hair ties. Since the post came ahead of UCLA’s clash with Maryland, girls will wear them during the routine.

So, the UCLA Gymnastics team’s entire performance against Maryland tonight will be dedicated to the brave firefighters. After all, the LAFD personnel and volunteers people fighting the fires can’t rest just yet. While the intensity of the fires has gone down, the firefighters’ job is far from over. As per WIFR, over 80,000 people are still under evacuation notice.

Meanwhile, the firefighters and volunteers continue to risk their lives not just for humans but also for the animals affected by the raging fire. In a January 14 report, the Guardian highlighted the efforts of volunteers helping animals left behind during the chaotic evacuations. However, as the inferno’s intensity has gradually reduced, the main challenge staring authorities in the face is the monumental cleanup. So with tributes such as these, teams like UCLA Gymnastics hope to inspire and find inspiration in the human spirit to overcome challenges.

UCLA Gymnastics is looking for an inspired performance against Maryland

UCLA kicked off its 2025 competitive gymnastics season on the wrong foot. However, after back-to-back losses against California and Oregon State, Jordan Chiles’ team has seemingly found their stride. Despite the two early defeats, the Bruins won the Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad Meet heading into their week three clash against Maryland.

However, despite having the home advantage against Maryland at the Xfinity Center, defeating Maryland won’t be an easy task. Thankfully, none other than Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles has stepped in to deliver a performance worthy of the indomitable spirit of the people fighting the LA fires.

Chiles set an example for her teammates following the very first round, scoring a perfect 10.000 on the uneven bars. “PERFECTION Jordan Chiles scores a on bars!” posted the Big10 Gymnastics page after the two-time Olympian’s flawless routine. The inspired performance helped UCLA take the lead in the opening round, and at the time of writing, they have widened the margin. As of Round 3, the Bruins lead Maryland 148.000 to 145.875. However, with one last round to go, it may be too early to crown the Bruins the winners.