The LSU softball boosters are known as Diamond Backers. Their support has led to Tiger Park having one of the best atmospheres in college softball, proven by the many attendance records broken by fans.
Each person who decides to become a Diamond Backer chooses from five tiers of donation, and the more you donate, the more prizes you receive. The tiers range from $100 to $2,500 and the prizes include newsletters, advanced postseason tickets, exclusive apparel, the opportunity to throw the first pitch and more.
The fans’ generosity has turned Tiger Park into the place to be. Mary Jewell Alford has been a Diamond Backer for five years at the Grand Slam Level, which is $2,500.
Alford said she became a member because she wanted to support the staff and student athletes. She donates money to support anything the team needs, from player development to facility upgrades.
“My membership as a Diamond Backer helps build on the tradition of excellence that defines LSU softball,” Alford said.
It’s not just a bit of generosity for some people, the experience has changed the lives of the fans.
Jaci LeJeüne and her daughter have been Diamond Backers since the 2024 season. They both are from Plaquemine, Louisiana, and LeJüne has been an LSU softball fan since 1997.
“We attended the VIP night where we got to meet the players and have dinner with them,” LeJeüne said. “Hearing each of their unique stories and things they like to do outside the field is so fun because some of the things these girls say you would never imagine. It brings you closer to the team and feels more like family when you get to have those type of gatherings.”
LeJeüne said there have been several other wonderful experiences since becoming Diamond Backers including throwing out the first pitch and getting to watch the selection show for the postseason with the team.
They are also able to directly impact the gameday experience for fans by funding the pregame and between-inning games and prizes.
Although she signed up for the minimum donation of $100, she said she hopes to be able to increase that amount one day, out of support for the team.
Supporting LSU has done more than make memories for Alford and LeJüne. Just donating to improve the program they love has been a wonderful experience for them. Alford said it is well worth the money she spends every year because of the impact of the LSU softball program.
“Coach Beth [Torina] and her staff are teaching the student athletes to be successful human beings on and off the field,” Alford said.
The generosity of the Diamond Backers not only changed their lives, but it has changed the future of LSU softball. An undeniable atmosphere has made the recruitment process easier within the strong Baton Rouge culture.
