University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletics
Football Pregame Events
Pregame Events
Before every Ragin' Cajun football game, there are some events that take place to fire up the fans.
First, about two and a half hours before game time, the Ragin' Cajun football team drives up in the UL buses and are escorted by the police to alert the fans that the beloved Cajuns are arriving. The team gets out and walks down Reinhardt Drive to the Athletic Complex from Bertrand Drive. Fans are invited to line up along Reinhardt Drive to wish the Cajuns luck as they head to the Complex to get ready for the game.
Second, under the oak tree, there is a stage for the pregame band to play. The band is always a local band and will provide the fans with a good time while the game time approaches.
This season's schedule of bands is listed below.
|
Date |
Game |
Time |
Band |
|
9-20 |
vs. Kent State |
3-5 |
Bayou Boys Gumbo |
|
10-18 |
vs. Arkansas State |
3-5 |
Nathan Williams and the |
|
11-1 |
vs. Florida International |
1-3 |
Krossfyre |
|
11-8 |
vs. UTEP |
TBA |
T. K. Hulin and Smoke |
|
12-3 |
vs. Middle Tennessee |
TBA |
Craker Jackson |
Finally, about an hour before game time, the Ragin' March begins on the opposite side of the stadium. This is a parade that is lead by the police. The Ragin' Cajun Cheerleaders and the Ragin' Jazz lead the fans through cheers as the Pride of Acadiana march behind and fire up the crowd. About 20 minutes later, or 40 minutes until game time, the Ragin' March reaches the alumni tent and oak tree. The pregame pep rally begins as fans gather around. After the Ragin' March is finished, the Pride of Acadiana, Cheerleaders and the Ragin' Jazz turn and head into Cajun Field. It is now time to enter "The Swamp."
Below is a map of the routes for the Cajun Walk (red arrow) and the Ragin' March (white arrows). Click on the picture for a larger view.
