Spirits rose as students and fans gathered in the War Memorial Student Union on Wednesday, Dec. 4 for a student appreciation tailgate and pep rally in anticipation for the  Lions’ first playoff game on Saturday.  
While listening to music played by KSLU, students and fans enjoyed free pizza and goodie bags filled with scantrons, pencils, snacks and more for finals week.  Also, students could enter their name into a raffle to win free tickets to the football game.
“I’m extremely excited, being here and seeing the team grow,” said Miss Southeastern, Crystal Gonzalez. “Coming to the games when I was little and coming to them now is a big difference. I’m extremely excited about the student’s pride.”
The Lions rose to new heights this football season, reaching goals they have never reached before in Lion history.  The success and spirit is reflecting positively on the fans, bringing together Hammond and Lion Nation.
Fans commented on the dynamic of the team and many stated they believe the success is due to the way they are working together, along with the positive impact of fan support.
“It’s the team as a whole.  I think they’re working really well all together,” said Gonzalez. “Coach Roberts and his staff are doing really well.  They’re pretty much playing as a team. With the community and students behind them, it’s giving them the support that they need.”
Some fans attribute the recent success to the newer additions to the team.
“I think it’s a long time coming,” said Brandon Nettles, a senior communication major “We have the new coach, Ron Roberts, and the addition of Bryan Bennett and Kody Sutton. You know the defense is amazing. I think this is the year for us. You can see the determination of the guys on the field every Saturday.”
Due to the success of the team, the fans spirits’ are thriving. Cheerleader Alyson Delhom commented on the crowd involvement this season and how the student section has been full. Unlike past years, more students have been staying in Hammond during weekends and remaining for the entire game instead of leaving during half time.
“I’m excited to be a student here while the spirit is so high and to be in Hammond during this time,” said Gonzalez.  “I just think when you win ball games, it attracts more students to the field. More students are staying in town instead of going home during the weekend, because they want to see the Lions play.”  
Southeastern is the champion of the Southland Conference and making their first appearance in the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs.  The playoff game was against Sam Houston State on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. in Strawberry Stadium.
“It should be sold out and amazing,” said Nettles.  “Most definitely I will be there with my green and gold on supporting the Lions.  Why would I be anywhere else?  Lion up, it’s all here.”