The Chargers surprised fans all across San Diego, getting them excited for the upcoming season.
Melvin Gordon completes the gauntlet at practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Melvin Gordon reaches for a cone while protecting the football in a drill at practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
The Chargers break down practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Derek Watt reaches for a cone while protecting the football in a drill at practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Spencer Pulley prepares to snap the football during practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Artavis Scott smiles during stretches at practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Damion Square poses before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Austin Ekeler completes the gauntlet at practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Austin Ekeler secures the football during a drill in practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Corey Liuget flexes before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Russell Hansbrough puts on his helmet before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Korey Toomer and Kenny Wiggins make their way onto the field before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
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Philip Rivers prepares to take a snap during practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Philip Rivers hands the ball off to Melvin Gordon during practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Sean McGrath and Sean Culkin pose before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Jahleel Addae sprints around a dummy in practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Keenan Allen catches a football before diving onto the matt during practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
Trevor Williams points to the camera before practice on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.
From north to south, east to west, the Chargers took to the streets of San Diego to thank their fans on Wednesday. Divided into seven position groups, the team spent the afternoon surprising fans to thank them for their support and dedication.
"Today has been a good day," said Corey Liuget. "Just seeing the smiles on the people's faces (when they see us) because they always see us in our helmets. So to see their faces and see their expressions towards us is great."
"I think it's something we have to do," added Joey Bosa. "We have to give back to those who support us. Without the fans, we wouldn't have anything. We want a good showing out this season because we're going to win games and we definitely want that stadium to be packed. I think this is a good way to thank the fans."
Players, coaches, Charger Girls and front office members visited iconic San Diego landmarks like Belmont Park and the Gaslamp District. They also strolled into stores and restaurants where they got the opportunity to take pictures and sign autographs with fans.
"At first walking into the grocery store it was (quiet), and then everyone started coming and asking for pictures," Bosa said. "You really see the support around here. When we walked into the restaurant, people had no problem with us walking up to them while they ate lunch because they're happy to see us put a smile on their faces. You have to show love for everyone who supports you."
"It was very cool," mentioned one of those patrons, Marni Piedrahita. "I wish my son was here but he's going to be happy I'm coming home with some autographs and a picture!"
Some players even got put to work.
"It was amazing," said Jamie Scheppele, who had her groceries bagged by Liuget. "I'm kind of shocked because you don't normally come to the grocery store and run into the Chargers. It was kind of wild but very cool that they did that! To come out in the middle of the day and bag my groceries, I mean come on! It's crazy and awesome!"
While the players were saying "thank you" to their fans, the fans were equally as appreciative seeing how involved the team was out in the community and getting them excited for the 2016 season.
"With the show of gratitude to the town and city for their support to the team, it's nice to see the team also cares about the people," Debbie Condon said.
As much as the fans appreciated seeing their idols in person, the players equally cherished the warm reception. Knowing they were once in the same shoes growing up idolizing players they saw on the field on Sundays, they know how important it is to be able to give back."
"When I was a kid, I never had this opportunity to meet professional athletes in a setting where I wasn't even expecting it," Brandon Flowers added. "So to see these kids' faces light up, it made their day. It's a good feeling (and) I'd do it every day if I could."
