AUSTIN, Texas — Texas football fans got an early taste of the Longhorns on Saturday, packing Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium for UT Fan Day — a chance to buy merchandise, take photos with Bevo and the team, and watch Texas practice inside the stadium.
The event marked the Longhorns’ final practice of the spring ahead of summer conditioning and training camp in August.
Fans traveled from across the state for the day’s activities. Stephen Garcia and his family arrived from Corpus Christi and were among the first in line. Asked what time he got there, Garcia said, “5 am.” Asked why, he said, “For the fire sale. Trying to get some of the good stuff.”
The day began with a street fair featuring family activities and Texas merchandise stands in an experience similar to Bevo Boulevard. Fans also had opportunities to take pictures with the horned mascot, Smokey the Cannon, and three of Texas’ trophies from last season.
When the stadium gates opened, fans rushed inside to watch the Longhorns take the field.
Quarterback Arch Manning, heading into his second season at Texas, returned to the field after undergoing foot surgery during the offseason. Earlier this week, Manning said he’s feeling “one hundred percent.”
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For some fans, seeing Manning throw again was a highlight. Aidan Clements said, “I think it would just have to be the drills. Seeing Arch sling the ball to Cam Coleman. That’s a connection I’m really looking forward to seeing this season.”
The event also came after President Trump signed an executive order earlier this month that federally regulates NIL collectives, limits years of eligibility and limits the number of times a player can transfer. Garcia said, “There needs to be some type of rule. It’s like the wild-wild west. You got kids transferring from left to right. Kids graduating and they’ve only been there for one year.”
Texas opens its season at home against Texas State on September fifth.