How Did Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns Get Their Name?
The Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns, the athletic teams of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, have a fascinating history that dates back to 1901. But how did they get their unique name? Let's dive into the story.
A Nod to Local Heritage
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was founded in 1898 as the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute (SLII). Initially, the school's athletic teams were known as the Bulldogs. This name persisted even when the school underwent name changes, becoming the Southwestern Louisiana Institute (SLI) in 1921 and the University of Southwestern Louisiana (USL) in 1960.
The Evolution of "Ragin'"
In 1963, the university's football team had an unusually strong roster of homegrown talent. Out of 39 players, 35 were from Louisiana, and 30 lived within 100 miles of Lafayette. Recognizing this local flair, coach Russ Faulkinberry decided to change the team's nickname to the "Raging Cajuns," paying homage to the Cajun ethnic group based in south Louisiana.
The Name Stays, Despite More Changes
In 1984, the university briefly changed its name to the University of Louisiana but reverted to the University of Southwestern Louisiana due to a court challenge. Finally, in 1999, it became the University of Louisiana at Lafayette but retained the Ragin' Cajuns nickname.
A Name That Resonates
Today, the Ragin' Cajuns name is more than just a nickname for athletic teams; it's a symbol of local culture, heritage, and pride. It reflects the university's deep roots in the Lafayette community and the broader Cajun region of Louisiana.
