LSU Fans Ignite Omaha’s Spirit with Record-Breaking Jell-O Shot Challenge at Rocco’s Pizza
In the heart of Omaha, Nebraska, during the 2023 College World Series, a unique tradition unfolded at Rocco’s Pizza and Cantina. What began as a playful competition among college baseball fans evolved into a monumental event, thanks to the fervent support of LSU’s fanbase.
Rocco’s, a modest establishment situated across from Charles Schwab Field, introduced the Jell-O Shot Challenge in 2017. The concept was simple: fans purchase Jell-O shots in their team’s colors, and the tally is kept on a whiteboard behind the bar. The team with the most shots sold by the end of the series wins bragging rights and, more importantly, contributes to a charitable cause. Proceeds from the shots are donated to food banks associated with each participating university and to the Heartland Food Bank in Omaha .
Over the years, the challenge gained traction, with fanbases from various schools vying for the top spot. In 2022, Ole Miss set a record with 18,777 shots. However, in 2023, LSU fans shattered that record in spectacular fashion. By the fourth day of the series, LSU had already surpassed the previous high, and by the end of the event, they had sold over 68,000 Jell-O shots, clinching both the team and overall records .
A significant contributor to this achievement was Todd Graves, the founder of Raising Cane’s and an LSU alumnus. On the eve of LSU’s game against Wake Forest, Graves purchased 6,000 shots, distributing them to fans throughout the bar. This gesture not only boosted the shot count but also set a Guinness World Record for the most shots purchased by a single individual .
The atmosphere at Rocco’s during the series was electric. Fans clad in purple and gold filled the establishment, chanting “L-S-U” and celebrating their team’s journey in the College World Series. The challenge became a focal point of the event, with fans eagerly checking the whiteboard for updates and strategizing their next round of shots.
Beyond the revelry, the Jell-O Shot Challenge had a profound impact on the community. In total, Rocco’s and its patrons raised over $142,000, which was distributed among the food pantries of the participating universities and the Heartland Food Bank. This philanthropic aspect underscored the spirit of camaraderie and goodwill that transcended the competition .
The success of the 2023 challenge has left an indelible mark on Omaha’s College World Series history. While LSU’s fans may not have been present in 2024, the legacy of their participation continued to resonate. Pat McEvoy, a manager at Rocco’s, noted the difference in atmosphere, stating that the absence of LSU fans meant “there’s a lot less mopping this year than last year” .
Looking ahead, the Jell-O Shot Challenge remains a testament to the passion and unity of college baseball fans. It serves as a reminder that sports are not just about the games played on the field but also about the communities they build and the positive change they can inspire.
As the College World Series continues to evolve, one can only anticipate what new traditions and records will emerge. However, the 2023 Jell-O Shot Challenge will undoubtedly be remembered as a pinnacle of fan engagement, philanthropy, and the enduring spirit of college baseball.
