ST. LOUIS — Members of the Southern Arkansas University family got to personally congratulate one of their favorite players, Jordan Babineaux, number 27 of the Seattle Seahawks, when the Seahawks defeated the St. Louis Rams Sunday, November 25.
Babineaux, whose nickname among some Seattle fans is “Big Play Babs,” was named as recipient of the Distinguished Young Alumni Award this October during the SAU Homecoming. However, because his football schedule prevented Babineaux from picking up his award in person, a group composed of alumni representatives, other administration and their family members took the trip to St. Louis to deliver the award in person.
The Mulerider fans were thrilled with the 24-19 victory of the Seahawks over the Rams. SAU President Dr. David Rankin attended the football game with his wife Toni and their daughter Beth Anne Rankin.
Carrying a sign reading “Mulerider For Life,” members of the SAU group gave Babineaux celebrity treatment by asking for numerous autographs and pictures following the game. Each of the 13 SAU fans who went to the game wore SAU jerseys with Babineaux’s college jersey number, 2, printed on the back.
“It was a pleasure to present to Jordan Babineaux the Distinguished Young Alumni Award,” Rankin said. “He had a fine record here at SAU, both academically and athletically, and has achieved great success with the Seattle Seahawks. It was fitting that Jordan receive this award after a great defensive effort in St. Louis.”
Babineaux, a 2004 graduate of SAU, earned second-team All-American honors for his football skills. His academic skills were impressive as well. He took a load of 23 hours his final semester so he could complete his bachelor’s degree in mass communication in four years.
Alumni Director Ceil Bridges said although Babineaux has an entirely new fan base now that he plays for the National Football League, he seemed to enjoy seeing familiar faces who have cheered for him from the sidelines since he wore SAU’s blue and gold colors.
“He loved it, he was so excited,” Bridges said. “He was humble and gracious even though he has so many fans from Seattle.”
Babineaux wrote Bridges an email following the meeting that confirmed her thoughts that the visitors had made an impression on the former SAU student who signed a five year contract extension with the Seahawks this September.
“I’m glad to know everyone had a great time,” he wrote in an email to Bridges. “Always good to see the extended family. See you next year!”
Bridges said the association will continue the tradition next year and encourage even more SAU fans to come along and show their support.
“It was a great opportunity for the alumni association,” Bridges said. “This is what our organization is all about, supporting the alumni of the University.”
