AUSTIN, Texas \u2014 Texas football fans got an early taste of the Longhorns on Saturday, packing Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium for UT Fan Day \u2014 a chance to buy merchandise, take photos with Bevo and the team, and watch Texas practice inside the stadium.<\/p>\n
The event marked the Longhorns\u2019 final practice of the spring ahead of summer conditioning and training camp in August.<\/p>\n
Fans traveled from across the state for the day\u2019s 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, \u201c5 am.\u201d Asked why, he said, \u201cFor the fire sale. Trying to get some of the good stuff.\u201d<\/p>\n
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\u2019 trophies from last season.<\/p>\n
When the stadium gates opened, fans rushed inside to watch the Longhorns take the field.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s feeling \u201cone hundred percent.\u201d<\/p>\n