By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports
The first very public sign of Shreveport’s pride in the NAIA World Series champion and undefeated LSU Shreveport Pilots baseball team was a sight to see Sunday night.
The Texas Avenue bridge, officially recognized as the Bakowski Bridge of Lights, was beaming in LSUS Pilot colors — purple, gold, and white — Sunday night and will again Monday evening. This symbolic gesture by the City of Shreveport will be followed today by lunchtime festivities downtown.
An LSUS national championship celebration is slated from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport and the public is encouraged to join the party. With a roster filled with players from far-flung hometowns, today’s event will be the first of probably a only select few public recognitions of the entire squad before some chase professional opportunities and others head home.
There will be a visit to the state Capitol, probably next week, said LSUS officials.
There’s already discussion of other possible celebrations, even a possible trip to the White House, and a slew of officials have chimed in with congratulations while national media outlets are taking notice of LSUS’ unique feat.
The Pilots (59-0) broke the collegiate baseball record with their 58th straight win Thursday night and dispatched Southeastern (Fla.) 13-7 Friday night in the NAIA World Series at Lewiston, Idaho, to capture the national championship, the first in LSUS history. It is the first unbeaten championship season by a college baseball team at any level.
When the team arrived home by bus from the DFW Airport Sunday evening, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux was there along with university officials and fans. Among the surprises: team members found gift cards on their windshields for Baskin-Robbins from an anonymous admirer.
“This team has shown the heart, discipline, and relentless drive that define champions,” said Arceneaux in a statement announcing today’s event and distributed before Friday night’s championship game. “No matter what the outcome, the City of Shreveport is immensely proud of what they’ve accomplished, and we look forward to honoring them with the celebration they’ve earned.”
“It’s been a privilege to watch this team in their historic pursuit of perfection,” said LSUS Chancellor Dr. Robert Smith. “They’ve represented LSU Shreveport in the best possible way on a national stage.”
The public celebration will include remarks by players and coaches, and from university and city leadership, along with music, food trucks, and other attractions. Attendees are encouraged to wear LSUS gear.