Special Event at the Easter with LSU Team
Every year, Easter brings with it a sense of renewal, joy, and community. In the spring of 2025, this spirit was brought vividly to life at Louisiana State University, where the LSU athletic department hosted one of the most memorable community events in its recent history. What started as a simple idea to give back blossomed into a full-scale celebration of togetherness, faith, and Tiger pride.
The Vision
The concept for the Easter event came from Coach Daniel “D.J.” Jones, a charismatic figure known not just for his tactical brilliance on the football field, but for his deep involvement in community outreach. After a particularly moving church service the previous Easter, he approached LSU’s athletic director, Mary Tran, with a vision: an all-campus Easter celebration that would involve student-athletes, local families, and alumni.
“I wanted to do something more than just sports,” Coach Jones said. “We have these incredible young men and women on our teams, and I wanted the community to see them not just as athletes, but as leaders, as people of faith, and as neighbors.”
Tran, ever the champion of student-led initiatives, immediately gave her blessing. Planning began in late January, with a committee formed of athletes, coaching staff, student volunteers, and local church leaders.
Preparations and Purpose
The core idea was simple: bring the community together around Easter, involve student-athletes in leading the day, and make it about more than just games. The event would have an Easter egg hunt for children, a sunrise service, live gospel music, a charity food drive, and a meet-and-greet with the LSU Tigers — from football stars to gymnastics champs.
LSU’s campus was abuzz in the weeks leading up to Easter. The Parade Grounds, one of the most iconic locations on campus, was chosen as the central hub. Volunteers hung pastel-colored decorations, organized baskets, and worked tirelessly to set up tents and stations. Local businesses donated food, drinks, and supplies, while LSU Athletics covered logistical support and coordination.
Student-athletes, many of whom were in the middle of grueling training schedules, carved out time for planning meetings, rehearsals, and community outreach. “It wasn’t just another event for us,” said Sarah Compton, a senior sprinter on the track team. “It was a way to live our values. A lot of us come from faith backgrounds, and to celebrate that in a way that also gives back — it meant a lot.”
Easter Sunday: Sunrise and Spirit
The day began at 6:00 AM with a sunrise service at the LSU lakes, led by local pastors and accompanied by the LSU Gospel Choir. More than 500 people gathered in the soft morning light, including students, professors, families, and even some local alumni who’d driven in from nearby towns. The choir’s rendition of “Because He Lives” echoed across the water, moving many to tears.
“The sunrise service was breathtaking,” said Rev. Monica Leblanc, one of the spiritual leaders present. “It reminded us all of the resurrection message — that there is light after darkness, hope after struggle. And to share that with the LSU family made it all the more powerful.”
Coach Jones gave a short but heartfelt message, talking about second chances, unity, and the importance of servant leadership. “Easter isn’t just about what happened thousands of years ago,” he said. “It’s about what we do today to bring that love to others.”
Family Fun and Tiger Pride
By mid-morning, the Parade Grounds had transformed into a festive playground. Bright tents lined the area, with stations for face painting, arts and crafts, and a mini petting zoo. The main attraction, of course, was the Easter egg hunt — and it didn’t disappoint. With more than 10,000 eggs scattered across the field, kids in bunny ears and LSU jerseys dashed in every direction, giggling with excitement.
LSU athletes served as “Easter Buddies,” each assigned to a group of children to help them with the hunt and keep the event safe and fun. Some players even wore bunny costumes — a sight that delighted parents and made for fantastic photo ops.
Basketball captain Jason Rivers, a towering 6’8” presence, was a hit with the kids. “One little girl told me I was the biggest bunny she’d ever seen,” he laughed. “I’ll take that.”
At another tent, members of the gymnastics team helped kids build Easter-themed crafts. “We got glue, glitter, and giggles — the holy trinity of a good time,” said senior gymnast Alicia Romero. “And it was awesome seeing the parents get in on it too.”
Giving Back
While joy and laughter were the hallmarks of the day, the event also had a strong charitable focus. A large section of the grounds was dedicated to a community food and essentials drive. Attendees were encouraged to bring canned goods, hygiene items, and gently used clothes.
By the end of the day, over 3,200 pounds of food had been collected for the Baton Rouge Food Bank. Several local shelters received donations as well. “It’s amazing what we can do when we come together,” said LSU linebacker Terrell Johnson, who helped organize the drive. “We’re just trying to give back to the city that supports us all year long.”
Additionally, proceeds from merchandise sold during the event — including limited-edition “Easter with the Tigers” t-shirts — were donated to a scholarship fund supporting underprivileged youth from Baton Rouge who aspire to attend LSU.
Faith and Fellowship
One of the more intimate moments of the day came during the “Faith & Fellowship” circle, held under a large oak tree on the north side of the Parade Grounds. This gathering was open to all and offered an informal space to share testimonies, read Scripture, and reflect on the meaning of Easter.
Athletes from various teams took turns sharing how their faith had shaped their journey at LSU — the ups, the downs, the moments they questioned, and the strength they found in belief and community. Some spoke about injury and recovery. Others talked about homesickness, loss, or doubt. All spoke with authenticity.
“I didn’t grow up in a religious household,” said sophomore volleyball player Kenya Lee. “But being here, hearing these stories, and seeing people live out love and compassion — that’s what faith looks like to me now.”
The fellowship circle ended with a group prayer, hands joined in a circle that spanned over a hundred people.
A Tradition Begins
As the sun began to set and families packed up their baskets, the LSU band played a mellow, jazzy version of “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Volunteers hugged each other in exhaustion and joy. Coaches beamed with pride. And athletes, though tired, smiled as they looked over what they’d helped create.
Athletic Director Tran took the stage for closing remarks. “This,” she said, gesturing to the sea of purple, gold, and pastel, “is what it means to be part of the LSU family. This is what Tiger spirit looks like beyond the field and the court. Today, we showed that being a Tiger means loving your neighbor.”
Plans were already being discussed to make the Easter celebration an annual tradition, potentially expanding it to include student organizations, academic departments, and more regional outreach.
“We planted something beautiful today,” Coach Jones said, echoing the theme of resurrection and new beginnings. “Now let’s see how it grows.”
Reflections
In the weeks following the event, LSU’s campus continued to buzz with stories and photos from Easter Sunday. Local news stations ran features on the food drive and the positive impact on the community. Social media was filled with images of Tiger athletes holding babies, dancing with toddlers, and praying with elders.
But perhaps the most lasting impact was less visible — the strengthened bonds between the university and the community it serves. Through faith, fun, and fellowship, LSU reminded everyone that greatness isn’t just measured in wins and trophies, but in moments of unity, service, and heart.
