By Elizabeth Clarke, LCU News
PINEVILLE, La. (LCU News) – Louisiana Christian University will dedicate the Blaine and Christine Broussard Sports Court on Wednesday, March 23.
LCU President Rick Brewer said he has wanted, for several years, to have an outdoor court where students and others could get together for a friendly pick-up game of basketball.
“Once I had significant financial support for the project the wheels began to roll during the Christmas break,” Brewer said. “Two alums, a husband and wife, were installing a similar court and because of their love and support for LCU. I asked if they would help do the same at the university, and they did. We worked with Sport Court South, a professional outdoor courts, from Little Rock, Arkansas, owned by Paul LeFleur. They were great people to work with who made sure our correct university colors and sports logo were applied to the court.”
While the court near Tudor Hall will not be officially dedicated until Wednesday, students have enjoyed playing Brewer and others in basketball on the outdoor court.
“It’s nice seeing the president come out of his way to interact with his students,” said Caleb Howe, a senior secondary education major. “It shows he cares for us and wants the best for LCU, and the new court is awesome. It’s a nice addition to the campus and it is a place to let loose, have fun and get away from the tests, papers and stress.”
His brother, Aaron, a 2021 LCU biology graduate who plans to attend medical school in the fall, echoed his brother’s praise.
“There’s no denying the basketball/competitive culture of Louisiana Christian’s campus,” Aaron Howe said. “The court gives students another outlet to get outside, get active and compete with their peers, and playing with Dr. Brewer is always a great time. He brings an uplifting, lively vibe to any pickup game. He’s also the best pick-and-roll man, he sets some strong screens. The court gives him another opportunity to do what he does best, actively engage with students on campus.”
Gracee Bryant, a senior business administration/accounting major, said she loves that the court gives LCU students another opportunity to get outside and get active.
“I can tell already that it has been a big hit,” Bryant said. “It will be great for student organizations, activities like intramurals and ResLife events as well. It also increases the friendly competitive spirit at LCU. Even if you don’t play, coming to watch never disappoints.”
The dedication, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, is open to the public.