Story and photo by KEVIN SHANNAHAN, Journal Staff
The Natchitoches Events Center was at full capacity as 800 Chiefs football fans packed the venue for the fourth annual NCHS Football Victory Club “Meet the Chiefs” Night on Aug. 15. The event served both as a fundraiser and as an opportunity to introduce Coach Brad Laird, his staff, and the 100 hard-working young men of the Chiefs’ football team to the community.
Arriving guests were able to purchase season tickets as they entered the event center’s main hall. Guests socialized and perused the absolutely amazing variety of sports memorabilia and other items featured in the evening’s silent and live auctions. Lasyone’s Restaurant catered the event with their superb Louisiana cuisine.
Mayor Williams, Superintendent Eloi and Principal Coleman delivered the opening remarks, after which the NCHS Cheerleaders and Maroon Line pumped up the crowd with high energy performances. Laird, in his third year at the helm of the Chiefs, led the 2025 team to a 6-4 regular-season record and a state playoff berth. He previewed the upcoming season, which includes games against teams that reached the state finals last year. He introduced his coaching staff after which the seniors were spotlighted. After the senior introductions, the juniors, sophomores, freshmen and trainers were recognized. An auctioneer kept a lively pace as Chiefs fans bid on a range of sports memorabilia and other items and guests responded generously to raise thousands to support the program.
The 100 young men of Chiefs football take to the field Sept. 4 vs. Sam Houston at Turpin Stadium for the season’s first home game. Before then, they face the Pineville High Rebels in a scrimmage at home Aug. 21. They will also play in the 10-team NRMC Battle of the Bricks Jamboree at Turpin Stadium on Aug. 29.
The Meet the Chiefs Night was an amazing display of support from the entire community for a group of deserving young men. From the coaches, teachers, and parents to the area businesses who donated items and services, to the guests who came to the event and gave generously, people of every race and circumstance came together in a common cause.
