A Special Walker Gets a Special Signature
LAFAYETTE, La. — What began as an annual celebration of Louisiana athletics became a meaningful family moment at Blackham Coliseum when Ragin’ Cajuns football players gathered around 80-year-old Navy veteran Wade Plaisance, grandfather of Louisiana kicker Brek Shultz.
During the university’s annual Fan Day, Plaisance brought his newly issued off-road walker to be signed by the football team. The walker, provided through Veterans Affairs, was designed to help him navigate stadiums and other challenging terrain while dealing with mobility difficulties.
For Plaisance, however, the walker has become more than a medical aid. It has become a piece of Cajuns football history. After having his previous walker signed by the team last season, he wanted the new one to carry the signatures of the players as well.
A Veteran Who Keeps Showing Up
Despite his mobility challenges, Plaisance used his previous walker to attend nearly every Louisiana football game last season. His determination to remain part of the game-day experience has made him a familiar and beloved presence around Cajuns athletics.
His story provides a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance. Scripture says in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good.” Plaisance’s continued support of his family and the Cajuns demonstrates how limitations do not have to prevent someone from participating in the things they love.
His new walker, equipped with larger off-road wheels, will make it easier for him to navigate stadium environments as he continues attending games.
A Family Moment on Fan Day
For Shultz, seeing his grandfather surrounded by members of the football team made the occasion especially meaningful. His family had been looking forward to seeing the new walker covered with signatures.
Shultz said the team was excited to see his grandfather and enjoyed watching him receive attention from the players.
The moment also demonstrated the way sports can bring generations together. Plaisance’s support for his grandson extends beyond simply watching football. His presence has become part of the family’s shared Cajuns experience.
Proverbs 17:6 declares, “Children’s children are a crown to the aged.” Plaisance’s relationship with his grandson reflects the special bond that can exist between generations and the joy families experience when they celebrate one another.
Players Take Time to Listen
Angelique, Plaisance’s daughter and Shultz’s mother, said the football players went beyond simply signing the walker. They took time to speak with her father, answer his questions and make him feel welcome.
Some players even told the family that it was their first time signing a walker. For Plaisance, what might have been an unusual request became an opportunity for connection.
That willingness to stop and listen reflects an important biblical principle. James 1:19 encourages believers to be “quick to listen, slow to speak.” Taking time to hear another person can communicate dignity, respect and genuine care.
Fan Day Celebrates More Than Athletics
The gathering at Blackham Coliseum included fans and student-athletes from several Louisiana programs, including soccer, volleyball, cheer and Ragin’ Jazz. While the event celebrated the upcoming athletic season, Plaisance’s story offered another reminder that the heart of a sports community is often found in its people.
The Cajuns’ willingness to embrace a veteran and make his day memorable demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can leave lasting impressions.
Looking Toward a New Season
Plaisance now has another walker filled with memories and signatures as he prepares to follow the Cajuns into another season. Louisiana is scheduled to open the season September 5 against Lamar, followed by a road trip to Los Angeles in Week Two to face USC at Memorial Coliseum.
For Plaisance, the journey will be about more than football. It will be another opportunity to support his grandson, cheer for the Cajuns and show that perseverance can carry us farther than we sometimes expect.
A Prayer for Veterans, Families and the Cajuns Community
Heavenly Father, we thank You for those who have served our nation and for the families who continue to honor their sacrifices. We pray for Wade Plaisance and others facing mobility challenges, asking You to give them strength, encouragement and perseverance. Bless Brek Shultz, his family and the Louisiana athletes who took time to make this special moment possible. Help our communities recognize veterans, honor older generations and show compassion to those who face challenges. May we remember the words of Hebrews 12:1 and continue running our race with perseverance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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