Lion pride found its way to start off a memorable night in the streets of downtown Hammond at Lionpawlooza Pep Rally during the annual Hot August Night. The event took place Friday, Aug. 16 around La Carreta.  
The rally was hosted by Southeastern Athletics, bringing many student athletes to pump up the community for the upcoming season. Head coach Ron Roberts took the stage at the start of Lionpawlooza to excite the crowd for what is to come.
“I think, especially in the Hammond area, there are some fans around that are normally attracted to some other schools,” said John Roberts, a Southeastern football player, about why Lionpawlooza is important for the community. “But it’s time we keep them in town and give them something to be proud of.”
This included not only a pep rally, but also entertainment by Southeastern cheerleaders, Lionettes, the Spirit of the Southland marching band and music by KSLU-FM.  The athletes also gathered around after the pep rally to sign autographs for fans.
“It helps get the fans into the football season, and they are able to get the signatures of all the football players so it allows them to get pumped up for the rest of the season,” said Alisha Bravata, Southeastern cheerleader. “I hope to see them win a lot.  I hope to see a lot of fans come out and support them.”
While fans took photos with Roomie the Lion, Southeastern’s mascot, and spun a wheel to win Lion prizes, multiple athletes commented on the hopeful season to come.
“I think it’s going to be a really good year,” said Megan Simon, a Lion soccer player.  “It’s a young team, but we’re melding pretty well and with the new talent coming in it’s really great.  We practiced a lot this summer. We worked really hard.”
A similar tale can be told for the football team.
“Our goal is to win the conference,” said John Roberts, football player. “We’ve been working hard all camp. We brought in a lot of good talent. The coaches are working hard to bring in money and get us some good things, so hopefully we can reap the benefits of it and win some games.”
Lionpawlooza started Hot August Night with positivity and lion pride.