SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The excitement is palpable in San Francisco as Super Bowl week unfolds, drawing football fans from all over to celebrate. The NFL Experience in downtown San Francisco is buzzing with activity as fans immerse themselves in the festivities, regardless of their team’s current standing.
Charlotte and Bennet Ducharme, Patriots fans, expressed their enjoyment of the event. “It’s super fun, it’s been fun so far yeah,” Bennet said.
Andrew Torres, a Seahawks fan, shared his disbelief at his team’s participation in the Super Bowl. “If you told me we’d be in the Super Bowl I don’t know if I woulda believed it but hey here we are,” Torres said.
The NFL Experience offers a unique opportunity for fans to see how the official game balls are made. The process involves sewing, steaming, pounding, and stretching, all handled by dedicated workers.
“These are what we even refer to as industrial athletes,” said Kasey Patton, Wilson Football Factory Manager, highlighting the physical demands of the job.
NBC’s Jennifer Bjorklund reported on the hands-on activities available, including the chance to lace up a football. “Lacing up your own football, and making the whole thing from scratch is something you can do here,” Bjorklund said.
The most important game balls are crafted immediately after the AFC and NFC championship games. “We’re at the factory Sunday Night for the AFC/NFC championship games, and as soon as the last game is over we get up and go out start making the balls,” Patton said.
These balls may end up in the spotlight during the Super Bowl or in the hands of fans who gather for the love of the game.
This Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 60, airing on KWWL. Kick-off is set for 5:30 p.m., with pre-game coverage starting at 11 a.m.