Meet the Painted Posse, the group of LSU supporters who paint their chests.
When you think of LSU football, you probably think of roaring crowds, the “Death Valley” atmosphere, and the long-standing tradition of passionate, die-hard supporters. Among those loyal fans, there is a group that stands out in both their enthusiasm and unique way of showing their love for LSU sports—The Painted Posse.
This group of dedicated LSU supporters, known for painting their chests in the team’s iconic purple and gold, has become an integral part of the LSU game-day experience. From the moment the fans begin tailgating to when they’re sitting in the stands of Tiger Stadium, the Painted Posse is there, unapologetically and loudly supporting their Tigers. But who are these fans, what drives their devotion, and how did they become such a staple of LSU sports culture? Let’s take a deep dive into the Painted Posse, their history, their impact, and why they’re a beloved part of the LSU family.
The Origins of the Painted Posse
The Painted Posse began as a small but passionate group of LSU students who wanted to stand out during football games. In the early 2000s, a few students, inspired by other fan groups around the country who painted their bodies to show support for their teams, decided to paint their chests for LSU home games. They chose purple and gold, the team’s official colors, and would sit together in the stands, proudly displaying their painted bodies and their unwavering support for the Tigers.
At first, the group was a small phenomenon, limited to just a few fans. But as the LSU football team’s success continued to grow, so did the popularity of the Painted Posse. Other fans, inspired by the group’s boldness and creativity, began to join in. Eventually, what started as a handful of LSU students turned into a beloved tradition that grew beyond just students. The group expanded to include alumni, local families, and passionate supporters of all ages.
As the Painted Posse became more prominent, their identity began to evolve. What began as a spontaneous act of support turned into an organized, tight-knit fan group that showcased a true love for LSU sports. Fans would not just paint their bodies—they’d also create themed designs, slogans, and even mascots in the colors of the Tigers, all while standing together in unity.
The Tradition of Chest-Painting and What It Means for LSU Fans
The Painted Posse’s chest-painting tradition represents something much deeper than just a creative way to support the team—it embodies the passion, energy, and dedication of LSU fans. For the members of the Painted Posse, painting their chests is not just about showing school spirit. It is a way to fully immerse themselves in the experience of LSU football and to take part in something much larger than themselves.
The Ritual of Game Day
Game day is always special in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, but for members of the Painted Posse, it’s an occasion to come together, make lasting memories, and embrace their unique tradition. The ritual begins long before the sun sets on Tiger Stadium. Fans gather in their tailgating spots, cooking jambalaya, grilling crawfish, and enjoying the camaraderie that only LSU game days can provide.
When the time arrives for the Painted Posse to prepare for the game, they often gather in designated spots to help each other with the intricate process of body painting. The colors used—purple, gold, and sometimes white—are meticulously applied to create bold, striking designs that will represent their personal connection to LSU. Some fans go for the traditional LSU logos, such as the “LSU” monogram across their chest, while others get more creative, incorporating tiger stripes, mascot faces, and even words like “Geaux Tigers” to make their bodies a canvas for their love of LSU.
For many in the Painted Posse, this is not just about game-day theatrics—it’s about honoring the legacy of LSU athletics and showing deep respect for the institution itself. Wearing LSU’s colors in such an unmistakable and personalized way is a representation of the pride they feel as fans, the pride that is felt across Baton Rouge and beyond.
Once the chest-painting process is complete, the group heads toward Tiger Stadium, where they take their positions in the stands. Their painted bodies and infectious energy immediately draw attention from everyone around them. The Painted Posse is always present when LSU’s team takes the field, leading the crowd in chants and celebrations, their painted bodies serving as a beacon of school spirit.
The Painted Posse’s Role in the LSU Fanbase
While the Painted Posse is easily identifiable by their body paint, their role in the LSU community extends beyond simply showing school spirit. They are a core part of the larger LSU fanbase and contribute to the overall energy in Tiger Stadium. From the opening kickoff to the final whistle, the Painted Posse serves as a catalyst for fan excitement, motivating the crowd and ensuring that no fan can ever feel disconnected from the game.
1. Inspiring the LSU Football Team
As one of the most visible groups in the stands, the Painted Posse is often a source of inspiration for the LSU football team. The players on the field recognize the dedication of the fans who are willing to go to such lengths to show their support, and that energy often translates into motivation during critical moments of the game. Many LSU players have commented on the enthusiasm of the Painted Posse and how it fuels their desire to perform at their best.
2. Building Tradition and Community
The Painted Posse also plays a major role in building and maintaining tradition within the LSU community. For many, becoming a part of the group is a rite of passage, particularly for LSU students. It’s a tradition that transcends generations, where former members now bring their children and grandchildren to experience the excitement and unity of LSU football games. It’s about keeping the spirit of LSU alive and creating new memories while honoring the past.
As a result, the Painted Posse has become a fixture of Tiger Stadium. The loud roars of fans cheering on their team are amplified by the visual spectacle of the Painted Posse, their painted bodies serving as a reminder of how strong the bond between LSU and its supporters truly is.
3. The Power of Unity and School Pride
The power of unity and school pride is at the heart of the Painted Posse’s existence. In a world where college football fandom can sometimes be divisive, the Painted Posse remains a shining example of how a group of individuals can come together in their love for a single team. They are a microcosm of the larger LSU family, where every fan—whether they’re a student, alumni, or simply a passionate supporter—can find common ground in their commitment to the Tigers.
The Painted Posse’s presence at LSU football games is a vivid demonstration of the energy and pride that make LSU one of the most respected and exciting programs in the country. Their body-painting tradition is a visual representation of this passion and has become synonymous with the LSU experience.
The Impact of the Painted Posse Beyond the Stadium
The influence of the Painted Posse extends beyond the walls of Tiger Stadium. The group is regularly featured in LSU’s social media posts, videos, and promotional materials, as their unique brand of support for the team is something that resonates with fans all over the country. National broadcasts of LSU games often showcase the Painted Posse, capturing their antics and spirited performances in the stands.
Their body-painting tradition also provides an opportunity for LSU fans to bond in ways that extend past the game itself. Through the years, the Painted Posse has gained a sort of celebrity status in Baton Rouge, with fans eagerly waiting to see what designs the group will unveil at the next home game. The group has even developed a following on social media, where they share pictures, videos, and behind-the-scenes looks at their game-day preparations.
Additionally, their distinctive presence has encouraged other schools’ fan bases to create similar traditions, where body-painting or other creative displays of support have become part of the collegiate football culture.
The Heart and Soul of LSU Football
The Painted Posse is more than just a group of LSU fans who paint their chests—it is a symbol of the fervor, passion, and pride that are deeply embedded in the LSU football program. Their tradition represents what it means to be part of something greater than oneself. It’s about being a part of a community, making memories, and supporting LSU through thick and thin.
Whether it’s celebrating victories, rallying during difficult moments, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of game day, the Painted Posse remains a vital part of the LSU football experience. They are an unforgettable presence in Tiger Stadium, a testament to the unyielding spirit of LSU and the power of passionate fandom. Through their painted chests and vibrant personalities, the Painted Posse serves as a living tribute to the heart and soul of LSU football—an institution where every fan, no matter how they choose to express it, is part of the legacy.
