By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE – For only the second time in school history East St. John retired the number of one of its former greats on Wednesday night, as Leroy Labat’s No. 22 joined Ryan Perrilloux’s No. 11 in that exclusive club.

As Labat sat among family and friends at a central table, he was honored during the East St. John football team’s annual banquet.

“Tonight we’re honoring a living legend,” said ESJ coach Larry Dauterive in a speech to the assembled mass. “And as far as I’m concerned, it’s long overdue.”

Labat, 79, was a standout at then-Leon Godchaux High School from 1945 to 1948 and would go on to play at LSU. Nicknamed “The Black Stallion of the Bayous”, his physical, yet elusive running style made him numerous fans and his name imprinted on the local record books.

He scored 31 touchdowns as a senior and led Godchaux to the first undefeated and untied regular season in school history. It would go on to become state runner-up, losing to Bossier City in the state championship game. Over half of Labat’s 31 touchdowns went for 50-yards or more.

In his speech, Dauterive recalled meeting Labat for the first time last year.

“Once I was in his presence, I knew I was sitting with a true icon,” he said. “I marveled at his recollection of events that happened 60 years ago.

“Clearly, Leroy Labat was responsible for putting Reserve on the map.”

He also highlighted his belief that the athletes are today are put on a pedestal at the expense of those that came before.

“Too often we get caught up in who the greatest athletes are now, that we forget the great players of the past.”

Dauterive presented a special commemorative plaque to Labat, who then said a few words thanking the school and everyone in attendance.

After the event, Labat called the night a great honor.

“It was wonderful,” said Labat, who now lives in LaPlace. “I appreciate East St. John and Coach Dauterive for this. To be put in the same category as a Ryan Perrilloux, a guy I think is a great, great athlete is really nice.

Labat led LSU in rushing in 1951 with 574 yards and six touchdowns. He also participated in the first All-American high school football game, in which he was named Most Valuable Player. He concluded his collegiate career with two more All-Star game MVP performances, in the North-South and Blue-Gray All-Star games.

Labat was drafted by the NFL’s Baltimore Colts, but instead went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps. He went on to become a successful businessman and figure in St. John Parish.

Now his jersey will be on display for all to see at the school.

Just never again on the field.

“The whole night just exceeded my expectations. I wasn’t expecting so much. But it brings back old memories and certainly makes me feel young again.”