WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. - The first open practice of Giants training camp drew a crowd that fit the setting: not massive, but meaningful.
Roughly 1,000 fans showed up Thursday, lining the fences and filling about half the stands around the team’s two grass fields in West Virginia. For a remote camp site, that was a strong turnout - and for season ticket holder Joe Becker, it was enough to make the long drive from Endicott, N.Y., feel easy.
Becker and his wife made the trip to see the Giants up close, and he left convinced it was time well spent.
“It’s been worth the trip,” Becker told the Daily News. “Seeing these guys up close, watching them compete and seeing how much work really goes into camp gives you a whole different perspective as a fan.”
The scene had plenty of familiar Giants faces beyond the fans. Owner John Mara watched the full practice from a golf cart with some of his grandchildren riding on the back, and Jaxson Dart’s parents were also on the sideline.
Andrew Thomas noticed the turnout too.
“I was surprised to see how many people were out here,” the left tackle said with a smile.
For Becker, the trip wasn’t just about watching practice. It was about feeling the pulse around the team.
“The energy has been great,” Becker said. “Everybody down here has been welcoming, and it definitely has me ready for the season.
“It’s also nice to see how many other Giants fans traveled down here,” he said. “There’s a lot of buzz and excitement around this team right now, and it feels good. It’s good to have a little hope after the disappointment we’ve been dealing with previous teams and seasons.”
The crowd stayed mostly quiet during the workout, even with the encouraging turnout. Still, there were a few moments that broke through. Rookie guard Sisi Mauigoa ran around after practice waving his arms to try to get the fans fired up, while players including safety Jevon Holland stopped to sign autographs and thank people for coming.
There was also a cheer for a deep catch by wide receiver Darnell Mooney, and the fans reacted to rookie kicker Dominic Zvada’s 57-yard field goal to finish practice.
“In all honesty, there’s nothing like the feeling when Giants football is finally back,” Becker said. “And baby, we are back.”
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