NATCHITOCHES – With the 2025 football season drawing near, a staple of the summer calendar is returning to Superior's Steakhouse in Shreveport.
 
The annual Northwestern State/Independence Bowl Kickoff, sponsored by John and Lynne Manno, is set for Aug. 21 at Superior's Steakhouse, located at 855 Pierremont Avenue in Shreveport. The luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., one week ahead of Northwestern's Aug. 28 season opener against Alcorn State.
 
Cost for the all-inclusive lunch is $25 and includes salad, a plated meal and dessert. Reservations are being accepted by contacting the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl office at 318-221-0721. Attendees are asked to bring cash or check to the event to cover the cost.
 
"This event, which is now in its third decade, means football season has arrived," Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. "Since I arrived in Natchitoches, I have looked forward to opening football season with a visit to Shreveport and the chance to visit with our longtime partners in this event, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl staff. Our relationship with (Independence Bowl Executive Director) Missy Setters and her staff is one we appreciate and cherish as is the opportunity to see many Northwestern State alumni who call the Shreveport-Bossier City area home."
 
The luncheon features Bostian, second-year Demon head coach Blaine McCorkle and members of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl staff. Bostian and McCorkle will preview the 2025 Northwestern State season while bowl staffers will provide updates on the 49^th annual Independence Bowl, which is scheduled for Dec. 30 at 1 p.m. in Shreveport's Independence Stadium.