The Newcastle Knights' training field was transformed on Saturday morning into a celebration of red and blue when more than 1000 Knights Members converged on Knights HQ at Wests Mayfield to launch the 2015 season.
The Member exclusive event allowed unprecedented access and interaction with the players and offered up an exciting array of activities for the whole family.
After the official welcoming by CEO Matt Gidley, the 2015 playing squad were introduced to the crowd of red and blue before the players ventured out to take part in a range of activities with the Members.
Members had the opportunity to meet their favourite Knights players, race them on the giant inflatable obstacle course, have their face painted and learn a football tip or two in the mini skills clinic.
The event also featured an animal petting zoo, sausage sizzle, photo and autograph booths and a station for Members to collect their 2015 Membership inclusions.
For coach Rick Stone, the immense show of support from the Club's Members was a promising and positive start to the 2015 season.
"We've always had great support and 2015 will be no different," Stone told Knights TV.
"It's good that Members get really close access to the players and they enjoy themselves at the same time, it's a great day.
"The acccess that supporters get here is as good as anywhere, that's for sure.
"I think they (the players) are all excited, because the season is getting a bit closer and we know we have some of the best Members and fans in the competition.
"Days like today provide a little bit of an insight into how passionate the Members are and it's good to see them come out in their numbers"
Jarrod Mullen had a busy morning meeting and greeting Knights Members young and old and embraced the chance to meet some of the Club's most passionate supporters.
"It's a great turn out and the boys are always happy to do it because these are the people that come to watch us play and cheer us on," Mullen said.
"I think the way we have connected with the community in the off-season has been great and they have rewarded us today with a good turn out."
Korbin Sims echoed his teammate's appreciation of the Members loyalty and support.
"It's really good to meet all the fans, they are one of the main reasons why we play football," Sims said.
"It's good to get a good turnout and hopefully we can get them all to the games as well."
One of the squad's newer members, Nathan Ross was overwhelmed by how many Members took time out of their weekend to celebrate the approaching season with the Club.
"It's tremendous to see the smiles on their faces and know that we get to do a job that we love, and that effects people's lives so much. It makes it so much more rewarding," Ross said
"I've had people come up and say that they can't wait to watch us this year and that they can tell with the smiles on the players' faces and the interaction with the fans that is going to be a year of change and it is going to be a good year for the Knights."
It's not too late to become a Knights Member for 2015. There is a Membership package to suit every Knights fan. Click here for more information and to join.
