The Vikings of Long Beach City College stepped onto Veterans Memorial Stadium for their season opener, only to see a 41-7 defeat at the hands of Riverside City College. The game marked the final home contest for the historic venue, drawing alumni and community members who gathered to celebrate its storied past.
A Moment of Remembrance
During the contest, a solemn moment of silence was observed in honor of August ‘Augie’ Luuga, a longtime supporter of LBCC athletics whose dedication had become a fixture in the stands. The tribute underscored the deep connections between the stadium, its fans, and the athletes who had once called it home.
Coach Marques Cooper, who guided the Vikings, reflected on the stadium’s transformative impact, describing it as a place that changed players' lives. He recalled its history of wins and bowl games, emphasizing how the venue had shaped the aspirations of countless athletes.
Riverside surged early, scoring 20 points in the second quarter and extending the lead to 41-0 by the fourth. The Vikings finally got on the board with a late touchdown pass from Kayde Bodine to Michael Wilson, providing a modest bright spot amid the loss.
Coach Cooper stressed that genuine growth comes from full commitment, noting that Riverside’s intensity resembled a playoff atmosphere. He urged his squad to absorb the lessons from the defeat as they prepare for the remainder of the schedule.
The Vikings are slated to travel to Mt. San Jacinto on September 12, with their next home game scheduled for September 19 against Santa Barbara. The upcoming fixtures aim to keep the historic stadium’s legacy alive for the rest of the season.