SLU Homecoming

by Mike Miller

October 16, 2009 - It really is football season again! The first dip in temperature and the smell of barbecue is in the air, not to mention a first place team to cheer. Southeastern Louisiana University celebrates its Homecoming this Saturday (Oct. 17) on campus with all the usual activities capped off by a game against Southland Conference rival Sam Houston State at 6 p.m.
 

“It’s great to be home again,” said an excited Head Coach Mike Lucas as his SLU Lions prepare for their Homecoming game. “We haven’t played at home in four weeks.”
 

The Lions(3-2,1-0 SLC) hope to build on the momentum of a thrilling come-from-behind 51-50 overtime win over defending Southland Conference champion Texas State. “We’re 1-0{in the conference} and working very hard to be 2-0”, added Lucas. SLU running back Jasper Duckworth was named the SLC Offensive Player of the Week.

For Lucas, there will not be much time to celebrate.
 

“We have over 100 recruits coming in for unofficial visits,” said Lucas. “It will be their first time on campus.” SLU hopes the spirited atmosphere of Homecoming, and the brand new 8,000-square foot, state-of-the art weight room will help SLU to attract the kind of talent the program needs to compete with the Southland Conference powers.
 

“We’re going to give them a tour around campus,” said Lucas, “but we can’t pay for any meals.” The NCAA has tight rules concerning just what the school can and cannot do with recruits coming in for visits.
 

For SLU, this year’s recruiting efforts will be important as the Lions seek to replace senior QB Brian Babin and senior running back Jasper Duckworth and a pair of veteran receivers off of one of the Southland Conference’s most high-powered offenses. The defense looks to add size and depth.
 

The “Lion Walk” of current SLU players and former SLU players will start at the Pottle Music Building following the Homecoming Parade, go through the tailgating area of Friendship Circle, and then enter the Dugas Athletic Center. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. with both Southeastern and Sam Houston State coming in with 1-0 SLC records.