| Independence Bowl News: |
| The Independence Bowl can trace its roots back to 1975 when the board of directors of the Shreveport-Bossier City Sports Foundation conceived the idea of bringing a postseason football game to northwest Louisiana. Applying to the National Collegiate Athletic Association for certification, the group’s efforts were rewarded with the approval of a December 13, 1976 game.
In honor of the United States’ 200th birthday, and the strong military presence in the Shreveport-Bossier City area, the Sports Foundation’s board of directors felt that the name “Independence Bowl” would be a fitting tribute to the men and women who have fought for the United States’ freedom and independence. During the first five years of the Bowl’s existence, it enjoyed a good working relationship with the Southland Conference (SLC) which provided the host team for the annual event. The events of 1981 signaled a major turning point in the development of the Independence Bowl. The Directors of the bowl ended their agreement with the SLC, which provided them the opportunity to scour the country for the best teams available in the NCAA Division I-A ranks. After 30 successful and memorable years, the Independence Bowl embarked upon a new era in the game's history in 2006. On August 21, the Independence Bowl partnered with PetroSun, Inc., giving the bowl its fourth title sponsor. Four months and seven days later, one of the most exciting games in Independence Bowl history was played in front of more than 45,000 fans at Independence Stadium, as the Alabama Crimson Tide fell to the Oklahoma State Cowboys 34-31, as OSU kicker Jason Ricks booted the game-winning field goal with nine seconds remaining in the game. The game took place on Thursday, December 28. |
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