JOURNAL SPORTS

The Shreveport Rouxgaroux indoor pro football team made its first official appearance Friday night at Hirsch Coliseum, leaning heavily into the successful model of the Shreveport Mudbugs hockey franchise while staging an exhibition game.

A modest crowd was entertained during the Rouxgaroux’s 55-24 win over the Dallas Falcons. The close confines, with the Mudbugs’ hockey boards serving as the sidelines, brought the action up close and personal for fans. Shreveport players drew praise on social media for their interaction with the fans.

The artificial turf surface didn’t appear to be as smoothly-laid as desired, but it didn’t stop players from both teams from delivering full-speed hits that were eye-catching.

The local team is a start-up franchise in the National Arena League and will play in the American Division. Owners are admittedly tapping into the Mudbugs approach and received staffing support from the hockey team while preparing for Friday’s game.

Shreveport kicks off the regular season at home March 8 against the Omaha Beef,  the first of three home games in the first four weeks of the season for the Rouxgaroux.