NEW ORELANS – The 2002 State Farm Bayou Classic XXIX has come and gone, but there is no reason to stop celebrating. This year’s Bayou Classic goes down in record books as one of the most exciting and spirited. It continued the tradition of friendly rivalry and reunion.
Even though the game is the main attraction, there are several reasons for supporters to flock to the city of New Orleans for the “Battle of the Big Cats.” The Bayou Classic has something for everyone.
Every year, the festive weekend unites the families of Southern University and Grambling State University.
“I attend the Bayou Classic every year to give my support to Southern and to see my best friend who is a Grambling alum. We live so far apart; this is a perfect opportunity for us to get together and catch up,” said Alberta Monroe, a Southern alum.
Of course there are those fans who are there for football. “I am a proud Jag football supporter and I come to the Bayou Classic every year to see if the football team can pull out a victory,” said Jefferson Levy, also an alum of Southern.
Many people like the Battle of the Bands more than anything else. “The bands blow me away every year. Every year Southern’s band takes their performance to a new level,” said Jatari Lewis, a sophomore marketing major here at Southern.
There are many people who go to New Orleans during the Bayou Classic weekend just for the party atmosphere. There are a variety of parties throughout the weekend. “The Bayou Classic weekend is the last time you get to hang out with your friends before the end of the semester,” said Kelly Auzout, a sophomore mass communications major.
The atmosphere of the weekend was positive. There was a lot of spirit and unity displayed by both schools. There were no petty fights over who went to the better school. Everyone seemed to let go of negative feelings and enjoyed the festivities. It seemed as if everyone figured out that we all are family. This installment of the Bayou Classic was truly a memorable experience for the Jaguar Nation and others.
Categories:
Bayou Classic
December 6, 2002
Photo by Gary Holloway/Jaguar Yearbook
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