Chiefs Kingdom Takes Advantage of Access During Day One of Training Camp

“TY-REEK….KEL-CE….AL-EX,” echoes around the practice field as #ChiefsCamp opens to the public for the first time this year. Fans started arriving more than two hours before practice started waiting for the gates to open. Once opened, fans led the charge carrying chairs, blankets and sharpies to secure the best spot not only to be within ear shot of their favorite player, but also for the hopeful chance of getting that prized autograph after practice.Ryan Barkalow, a fan who has been coming to camp “since Matt Cassel was quarterback,” said camp is all about building memories. “The fact that they actually take their time to interact with fans, and take time to personally talk with you, it just makes you realize they’re actual people too,” Barkalow said. “They’re not higher than us or anything. It makes them look humble, and it just makes everyone feel equal.”Two years ago, Barkalow started coming every single day to camp. “Since Alex and Andy’s second year here. I started coming every day since then, and I’ll come every day this year,” Barkalow said. While these close interactions are special for the fans, it means a lot to the team too—and gives them some oomph.“The fans were great and I was surprised that everybody got here in the numbers that they were. It is different than players. I look forward to the rest of camp having them out here,” Coach Andy Reid said. “It gives the guys a little extra juice. I like the fact that our guys appreciate the fans and really that is important.” For a full list of the autograph schedules for training camp, click here.

Chiefs Kingdom Takes Advantage of Access During Day One of Training Camp

The connection between Chiefs' players and fans was never more evident than on Friday afternoon