May-June 2019 Issue of Inside Northside Magazine

rise to these standards, but they were quick to cut any coaches who didn’t live by them. “We’ve actually cut more coaches than players,” he adds.

The team’s first year, 2016, was one of learning and growing.

With fifty players on the roster, ten coaches and a home field at Lakeshore High School in Mandeville, the Cardinals were ready to spread their wings. And their loyal fans were right there with them. In the first game, Cardinals fans outnumbered those of the home team. To everyone’s surprise but their own, the Cardinals won that first game 22-0. From then on, the league knew they were legitimate. The Birds only lost to the #1 and #2 teams in the league by a combined total of two points. Both of those teams were ranked in the top 15 in the nation.

By their second year, Narcisse had found sponsors to help defray the $750-$1,350 expenses for home and away games.

Jim Quakenbush of Gators Quick Stop on Hwy. 434 was one of the earliest to show support. “I buy into this team for two reasons. My wife is from Lacombe, and Gerrin is a dedicated man who wants to help the community, its families and kids.

Idle hands get into trouble; the Cardinals keep many idle hands busy,” he adds. “Plus, the team gives back to the community”— just like Quakenbush, who redeems Cardinals ticket stubs for a free hot dog and an entry into a raffle for a free tank of gas.

In year three, Narcisse spent the offseason solidifying the Cardinal’s non-profit status, marketing the team to businesses and promoting partnerships. One such community partner, Northshore Technical Community College, offers grants to players to further their education and transition to life after football.

Brandon Dolliole is one of seven players currently enrolled in the college. “I was working as a waiter but wanted to do better for my family,” he says. “On Coach Narcisse’s recommendation, I enrolled in a two-year welding course at Northshore Tech.” With graduation only a year away, Brandon’s already had two job offers.

“I wish I had done this eight years earlier,” he says.

Today, the Cardinals are in their third year and flying high with a 4-0 record. As word spreads about the fun, familyoriented games, the halftime entertainment, mini-cheerleaders and great concessions, attendance is swelling. (There were about >> May-June 2019 89