LSU's Inaugural Field Trip Game a Success
ESPN Analyst Amanda Scarborough had circled the 11:00 AM start time for the Texas at LSU game, anticipating a quiet stadium due to the early hour.
But LSU Head Coach Beth Torina had different plans.
Torina announced the inaugural Field Trip game, turning what could have been a subdued atmosphere into a raucous event with 700 elementary school children cheering on the Tigers, fueled by Chick-fil-A sandwiches and chips.
You’ve got to love @BethTorina for bringing in 700 second graders to cheer on the Tigers.
I’ve seen a few horns down 😂 ruthless pic.twitter.com/uElapL00Oq
— Tara Henry (@notarabledays) March 12, 2024
The transformation of Tiger Park was remarkable. The stands were filled with families, the Tiger Terrance bustling with fans on blankets, and the grandstands above the Texas dugout packed with enthusiastic second graders.
What stood out most was the engagement of the second-grade attendees, fully immersed in the game, highlighting the impact of providing young fans the opportunity to witness high-level women’s sports.
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Following the game, Amanda and I discussed the game’s significance over lunch at Parrain’s charbroiled oyster, our conversation centered not on rankings, but on the lasting impression made on those young fans and the time of day.
Yes this was cool to see TODAY…
…but what’s even cooler is the potential impact months or years from today of taking these little ones to a women’s sporting event- for both the boys and the girls…
…opening their eyes to new dreams, role models, opportunity & support. https://t.co/apI1mB430z
— Amanda Scarborough (@ascarborough) March 12, 2024
LSU’s initiative to accommodate Texas’s scheduling request paid off, leading to a convincing 7-4 victory and challenging preconceived notions about rankings.
Here’s why LSU’s win mattered:
- Executing a Plan: LSU capitalized on Texas pitcher Teagan Kavan’s vulnerabilities, scoring five runs in the first inning without swinging and missing on a single pitch.
- Trusting your Gut: Sophomore Sydney Berzon showcased her best performance, communicating effectively with the pitching staff and adjusting strategies mid-game to secure the win.
- LSU’s Family Culture: From Coach Torina’s hospitality to the warmth extended by the entire LSU community, the sense of family permeated every aspect of the experience.
Welcome to the inaugural Field Trip Game at Tiger Park!#GeauxTigers pic.twitter.com/yfrmoLAqGQ
— LSU Softball (@LSUsoftball) March 12, 2024
While a No.1 ranking may not seem to carry much weight, LSU’s performance demonstrated their sustained excellence on the field and the significance of fostering a supportive and inclusive sports culture. With a perfect record and a sense of unity, LSU’s journey to Oklahoma City seems more promising than ever.