Despite the weather’s best efforts, Lions fans continued with the celebration of football returning to Hammond with LionPawLooza.
As a part of the 17th annual Hot August Night, head coach Ron Roberts and the Lion football team greeted their fans in a preseason pep rally. Along with the team, the Spirit of the Southland Marching Band, cheerleaders and Roomie himself pumped up the crowd with an inspired afternoon event.
The Mayor of Hammond Mayson Foster implored fans to come out and support the Lions before Roberts made his appearance.
“I’m really excited about having all of the people back at Southeastern,” said Foster. “I live by the stadium, and I hear these guys every day, working hard so that we can have a great team.”
Music provided by KSLU 90.9, along with fan support, gave a raucous introduction for the new head coach. Roberts told fans that his team had been working hard to bring results to Southeastern and its supporters.
“We can’t wait until September 8, our home opener, to show you what we are capable of doing,” said head coach Ron Roberts. “We are excited to pack Strawberry Stadium, rock the house and make this place an unbelievable place on Saturday afternoons.”
Players were also on stage with Roberts. Paul Roppolo, a senior offensive lineman, told fans that the Lions would bring home a win against Missouri and continue their success when South Dakota State travels to Hammond for the Lions’ home opener.
“We’re going to keep on rolling to a conference championship and eventually a national championship,” said Roppolo. “Come out and support us September 8. Go Lions!”
Members of the football and volleyball teams were then made available to autograph schedules for fans.
After another losing season last year and the letting go of Mike Lucas, Roberts looks to take Southeastern to a winning season. The last time the Lions achieved that mark was in 2009.
The Lions leave home to take on Southeastern Conference newcomer Missouri on Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. KSLU 90.9 will have the call on the radio. The Lions then make their home debut a week later against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits at 7 p.m.