Support on the road is vital for athletics. Teams thrive to make their home turf a tough environment for opponents to play in and that same support is needed when teams hit the road. Southeastern and the Lion Athletic Association are taking that step to be sure the Lions know they have support on the road.
Southeastern fans will be able to caravan to Lions away games in conjunction with the Lion Athletic Association. The next road game will be against in-state rival McNeese in Lake Charles. Fans are to meet at Pat Kenelly Diamond and can leave from there to head to the game to support the Lions. Any fans willing to drive or carpool can meet with fellow fans and follow each other to away games.
“We’re starting caravans as a more fun approach. You get to do what you want to do and still have the fun of seeing everybody,” said Athletic Director Bart Bellairs.
Plans were made to caravan to the Tulane game but they were cancelled due to weather from Tropical Storm Lee. Since then, Lion fans have traveled together to Hattiesburg to support the Lions at Southern Miss.
The Lion Athletic Association has made plans to tailgate prior to games and travel to closer away games including McNeese and possibly Northwestern State in Natchitoches when the Lions face them on Oct. 15. Once fans have arrived, there will be tailgating prior to the games. During tailgating, food and drinks will be offered and fans attending are encouraged to bring their favorite tailgating dish.
“I’m intrigued by this. Being that a few games are actually in-state and not far away, many students will take interest in going if they find out they have a way or someone to follow, and other fans there to help root for the Lions,” said junior marketing major Ashley Daniels.
Football coach Mike Lucas was very appreciative in the support fans are showing for his team.
“That’s great,” said Lucas. “It means a lot to the guys to see their fans showing up on the road, and it goes a long way toward play.”
For more information contact the Lions Athletic Association at 985-549-5091 or visit www.lionsports.net.