Story and photos by KEVIN SHANNAHAN, Journal Services

NATCHITOCHES — Season ticket pickup for the NSU Demons’ upcoming football season was a fun family-friendly event this year as the athletic department held “Fan Fest 25” at the Don Kelly Fieldhouse, Saturday, August 9.

Several hundred eager Demon fans came to campus to pick up their season tickets, enjoy a superb free jambalaya lunch, and meet the young men of the Northwestern football team. Two talented students from NSU’s Art Department painted children’s faces while members of NSU’ Tri-Sigma sorority helped children make NSU spirit bracelets.

Winnfield’s Deep Water Rehab performed their signature mix of classics and original songs. Frontman Thomas Little is a 2016 NSU alumni as well as a four year player on the Demon football squad as a two-year starting center, and his cousin Eli is a redshirt freshman offensive lineman on the current team. They both are former Winnfield Tigers.

The Demons’ extended scrimmage was the cornerstone event Saturday and contributed to the palpable sense of excitement surrounding the rebuilding program as Coach Blaine McCorkle embarks upon his second year at the helm. This year’s team has a distinctly Louisiana flavor with many of the players coming from a 150-mile area around Natchitoches. In fact, 81 percent of the players McCorkle and staff have brought in are Louisiana natives.

The Demons will count on a player from the storied North DeSoto High School program. Former Griffin Brian Banks will be continuing his football career as a running back – be sure to look for number 24 on the field!

Next season he will be joined by current NDHS senior quarterback Luke Delafield, who has announced his commitment to continue a deep family tradition by playing at Northwestern.

The 105 young men in practice at NSU currently are in high spirits and working hard. The intensity is easy to see. This team is gearing up to show progress this season.

The Demons’ home opener is Thursday, August 28 at 7:00 in Turpin Stadium against Alcorn State. For a modest admission price, you can watch some hard-hitting gridiron action, a superb halftime show from the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band as well as enjoy a family-friendly tailgate before the game.

The Journal Services family is donating access to the photographs from last Saturday’s event. Fans, players and families are welcome to download any photos they wish.