It’s been 10 years since The Lady Ragin’ Cajuns softball team hosted an NCAA regional tournament — and for fans and players alike, the event is a big deal.

"It’s special because of what it means," said John Dugas, the associate athletic director. "It’s great for the entire community to have a team that is ranked No. 6 in the nation. Ticket sales are going crazy and we are expecting near capacity crowds. There is definitely a buzz going on right now."

Dugas said the grandstands are already sold out for the games on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, but general admission seats are still available.

For team supporters and volunteers, the tournament is also a chance to show off some Cajun hospitality and to showcase Lafayette to visiting teams and their fans.

Herman Thomassee is a local volunteer and host for the visiting softball team from Baylor University.

"It brings in a lot of money and puts the focus on UL nationwide," Thomassee said. "They come here and they have good feelings about Lafayette."

Thomassee, a former umpire and longtime softball fan, said he volunteered to host a team because he loves the sport and because it’s a chance for him use his cooking skills. During the four nights the teams are in town, he and his wife will cook and make goodie bags for the players and take care of the team’s needs.

Dugas said the tournament is also a chance for local businesses to benefit from the increase in visitors who will eat, sleep and shop in Lafayette. In turn, many of them will shower the UL team with support, and offer food and other necessities just to be a part of it all.

"We support the softball program year-round," said Mark Hutchinson, owner of Pete’s on Johnston. "There has been such a big response this season with more people coming in on game days and buzzing about softball."

Hutchinson said over the next few days he expects his restaurant will be very busy. He is also a huge fan of the game as well as a former UL baseball player.

Hutchinson also said this team in particular is ready to go all the way.

"This is a pretty special program," he said. "I don’t think for one second this team is going to let (its) guard down. They will focus and keep it one game at a time. I don’t they’ll lose this week."

Co-head coaches Michael and Stefani Lotief were with the team back in 2002, the last time UL hosted the event. They said one difference is the new Lamson Park, which will allow for more fans and better overall facility.

Although the arena has changed, the community support has not.

"This community has always been supportive of the kids," Michael said. "They have always loved this program and given the kids a chance to chase their dreams. The community is really selfless in many ways."

The four teams playing this weekend include UL, Baylor University, Stanford University and Mississippi Valley State University.

Baylor Administrator Paul Bradshaw said this trip marks his first stay in Lafayette and so far he is impressed.

"It gives Lafayette a chance to put its best foot forward," he said. "If you haven’t been to Lafayette, it just leaves a good taste in your mouth — and not just because of the food."