Hometown hero honored for second Super Bowl win
March 2, 2024, was officially declared L’Jarius Sneed Day in Minden as the town celebrated native son and Super Bowl champion L’Jarius Sneed’s second Super Bowl victory with the Kansas City Chiefs. The day began with a downtown parade in Sneed’s honor, followed by a festive party at the Minden Recreation Complex (REC).
Before the party commenced, Mayor Nick Cox read a proclamation declaring the day as L’Jarius Sneed Day. Mayor Cox emphasized the rarity of Sneed’s achievement, stating, “Out of the 1.1 million kids who play football in the United States each year, only 53 will win a Super Bowl championship. One of those players is from Minden, and he’s done it twice.”
Kathy Babers, representing Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, presented Sneed with a Congressional Commendation for his Super Bowl wins and a Speaker of the House Challenge Coin. Babers praised Sneed, saying, “We just want you to know that we are so proud of you. We’re so excited that you honor your roots and honor God in all that you do.”
Supporters from near and far, including Sneed’s parents, relatives, friends, and fans from Kansas City, turned out to celebrate. Sneed’s father expressed his gratitude, saying, “To go to the Super Bowl one time is something special. I thought the first time was a mind-blowing experience until we went this time, and it was totally different. I just want to thank my son for being great.”
Two of Sneed’s former coaches from Louisiana Tech, Ed Jackson and Jeff Burris, shared stories about Sneed and thanked his parents for their support. A youth dance group entertained the large crowd that gathered in the gym of the REC to honor Sneed.
Reflecting on the day, Sneed said, “I had fun seeing all the smiles and seeing everybody celebrating me — it was a blessing.”
After the ceremony, Sneed delighted fans by signing autographs while children enjoyed hotdogs, played football, and bounced in the bounce house. The day was a fitting tribute to a hometown hero who continues to inspire Minden and beyond with his achievements on and off the football field.
