San Diego Chargers fans gathered at Qualcomm Stadium Saturday for the 2015 Chargers FanFest, a free, annual event that has become a San Diego staple.
The stadium gates opened at 9:45 a.m. with 13 former Bolts players waiting inside to sign autographs for fans, including Rolf Benirschke, Willie Buchanon, Darren Carrington, Luis Castillo, Nick Hardwick, Raylee Johnson, Anthony Miller, Lorenzo Neal, Vaughn Parker, Billy Shields, Billy Ray Smith, Doug Wilkerson and Jamal Williams.
At 10:30 a.m., the 2015 Chargers Girls made their debut before the crowd. The Bolts then took the field for a full-pads practice, which for many fans, is the highlight of FanFest.
During practice, fans got their first up-close look at their favorite players, including quarterback Philip Rivers, tight-end Antonio Gates and safety Eric Weddle. Newcomers also took the gridiron for the first time as Chargers, including first-round draft pick Melvin Gordon and wide receivers Stevie Johnson and Jacoby Jones.
The annual, family-friendly event included free parking, activities for kids and $2 hot dogs and drinks – a true stadium steal. Fans also got a chance to scope out remaining season tickets.
For some fans, the event was bittersweet. If the Chargers leave San Diego for the proposed stadium in Carson, Calif., this could be the last FanFest at The Q.
A group of fans cheered next to a large banner that read "Los Angeles Area Chargers," but the sign didn't bother some.
“I try not to really think about that. It gets me kind of sad, Bolts fan Chris Van Luin told NBC 7. “Even if they move, I'm still going to be a Charger fan.”
Local
Other fans agreed that distance won’t shake their loyalty to the team.
“If they go to L.A., I'll still go. It's not a long drive. It wouldn't be a sweat,” said fan David Garcia. “I'll be there for the Chargers.”
Fans of all ages filled the stands, excited about the upcoming season. This included the Aguirre family, and their three-month-old baby boy.
“The hype, pre-season, football – it’s all about football!” said Adriana Aguirre.
For now, at least, it’s all about the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium, and their dedicated fans.
