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FanFest a Hit with Fans and the Team

Posted Aug 4, 2012

Today’s Chargers practice had a distinct game day feel to it as the team held its annual FanFest Saturday morning at Qualcomm Stadium. Nearly 10,000 fans came out to support the Bolts, eager to see the 2012 team in action.

“We come every year,” said Charles Jacobs, who attended along with his wife and two sons. “It’s a tradition for us and has become like our opening kickoff. It’s great to see the team up close and personal.  I’ve been a Chargers fan my whole life, and over those 33 years or so some of my favorite memories have been (from FanFest).”

Photo Gallery: FanFest 2012 | Chargers Alumni | More Camp Photos

In addition to watching the team practice, the event included an interactive area replete with inflatable games, face painters, caricature artists, promotions and much more.  Fans also had the opportunity to meet and greet Chargers alumni for a very special autograph session.

“Anytime you get to be around the fans is great,” said former punter Darren Bennett. “They are what it’s all about so it’s a privilege to be out here with them.”

While fans were enjoying themselves in the concourse area, the highlight for many was watching the Chargers in action as they ran through an assortment of drills.  According to the team, holding practice in front of their supporters plays a big role in preparing ready for the season, which is just around the corner.

“Anytime you come to the stadium is good,” said Philip Rivers.  “It gives it more of a game feel.  We’re five days from kicking it off against Green Bay, so it’s almost here.”

Safety Eric Weddle in particular enjoys FanFest, saying he looks forward to it each and every season.

“It’s amazing,” he said, gesturing towards the stands at the fans cheering loudly. “This is what you play for.  To come out here and get the added boost and added energy to do your job from these fans is what it’s all about.  It was a great practice today and the fans had a lot to do with it.  Both sides, offense and defense, made a bunch of plays.  It’s an exciting time whenever you have an audience like that and I can’t wait to see what they will be like on Thursday.”

Head coach Norv Turner also expressed his appreciation for the fans and the opportunity to practice in front of them, stating how as a coach it helps him prepare for game like conditions.

“It’s great to be in the stadium and have a game environment,” he said. “We worked a lot of game situations today, and obviously a big part of playing in our stadium is having our fans here.  They were great today and they add a lot to what we’re trying to accomplish.”

Quick Hits

  • In addition to the nearly 10,000 fans in attendance, hundreds lined up at the box office for a chance to nab single game tickets before they went on sale to the general public.
  • Philip Rivers hit Malcom Floyd on a slant route for a big gain, much to the fans delight.
  • Floyd later wrestled the ball away from the defender for a touchdown, and celebrated by dunking the ball through the uprights.
  • Vincent Brown continued his string of unbelievable catches, this time diving full extension to haul in a completion.
  • Single game tickets are now on sale.  Click here to purchase your tickets today!
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