We’re less than 48 hours away from kick-off of the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns Football season.
Saturday, the Cajuns will take on Grambling State University.
Now, there’s a certain hustle and bustle in the air at Cajun Field as crews work to put the finishing touches on the stadium. The Cajuns want fans to arrive early, wear red, be loud and stay late.
“Get rowdy, let’s have some fun and show them what the Billy Napier era will be about with football,” said Nico Yantko, Deputy Director of Athletics and External Operations.
The biggest change for fans is that general parking is no longer free. It will now cost you $10 to park across from Cajun Field and you can only pay with a card.
“Fans will now be able to invest those dollars back into the student-athlete experience,” said Yantko. “That’s everything we do with any dollar generated by the athletic department. Whether its investors through RCAF, parking revenues, concessions, just understand that’s what that money is going towards.”
Parking inside Cajun Field is for Ragin’ Cajuns Athletic Foundation members, RV’s with a pass and those with a handicap tag.
Once inside the stadium, fans can expect an enhanced experience. The north side of Cajun Field is the kids zone. Behind the Red Zone Student Section is the new Graduate Sports Bar and Grill.
“Anybody can go in there and cool off, we’ll have some misting fans, DJ’s, trailers with other games across the country playing in there and fan friendly menu items,” Yantko said.
Thursday afternoon, Marlene Theriot and her husband Wayne were stocking up on their Cajuns gear. They’re preparing for the game and look forward to tailgating with family and friends.
“They all tell us that they want that to be part of their inheritance because they’ve been doing that since they were little ones,” Theriot said. “Now, they’re bringing their kids and the grandkids. It’s a lot of fun.”
Yantko said, “I think it’s a really good start to see Coach Napier and the team to take on their first game here at home and I think you’re going to see a leaner, more disciplined team here on the field.”
Also new for the 2018 season, fans will not be allowed to re-enter Cajun Field during the game.
To receive updates on parking, tailgating, entry into Cajun Field, and other game day information, follow the Louisiana Gameday Updates Facebook page (/ragincajunsgameday) or Twitter page (@LAGameday).
You can also click here for answers to frequently asked questions about game day.
