NEW ORLEANS — The anticipation to see the Ragin’ Cajuns play in their first bowl game in 41 years was on display Friday as red-clad fans eagerly awaited today’s showdown with the San Diego State Aztecs in the R ? L Carriers New Orleans Bowl.

For fans and alumni alike, Friday’s pep rally was not only a chance to get ready for the game, but it also provided a chance to celebrate a bowl game that has been more than a generation in the making.

"I think it’s 41 years worth of waiting," Colleen Edwards said. "I’m overwhelmed with the amount of support that New Orleans has shown for UL, and I’m so proud of (UL) and thanks (to the players) for getting us here to this point today."

As expected with any UL party, the day’s events were filled with music and dancing — in this instance, played by Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin’ Cajuns — which only added to the festive mood.

Randy Guillory says UL’s bowl appearance has been long overdue, and it’s renewed a sense of community pride.

"It’s good to see people coming out that haven’t been coming out for years — it’s good to see people, from alumni and different generations, coming together to celebrate together," Guillory said with a grin. "The atmosphere is full of energy, excitement, and it’s a time that is well-deserving for the Cajun nation."

Inside a UL party at the Marriott Hotel, Guillory’s assessment rang true as generations of Ragin’ Cajuns sang, danced and cheered.

Longtime alumni were seen dancing a two-step to the music, while recent grads cheered in approval. Some of their cheers lasted only for a short time, while new parents chased their red-clad children around the hall. Each generation, albeit in different ways, came together to celebrate.

UL Alumni Director David Edmiston, enjoying the party, as well, shared the same sentiment emanating from the crowd — that UL fans have been waiting a long time to cheer during a bowl game.

"They have been really foaming at the mouth for an opportunity like this," Edmiston said. "We have some of the best alumni that anyone could have asked for, and they really stepped it up.

"Their passion is up. They have always had passion, but it is really on fire right now. It’s an exciting time to be a Ragin’ Cajun."

After the music had finished in the hotel ballroom, the Pride of Acadiana Marching Band continued the celebration, leading fans in Second Line fashion on a parade through the French Quarter — and for the second day in a row.

Thoughts were on the party throughout the day, but, just like when chatting with the team throughout the week, the serious talk switched when fans were asked about the game.

"I think it’s going to be a high-scoring game, but I think UL is going to win," Edwards said.

"We don’t have to worry about the support, because it’s out there in droves, and a W would be wonderful," Edmiston said.

"Tomorrow, you’re going to see a sea of red, and a W in the column," Guillory pronounced.

The atmosphere was festive Friday and is expected to be more so today, but fans want to see a perfect end to what they’re already calling an amazing season.