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The Red Sea swarms into University of Phoenix Stadium to watch the Arizona Cardinals practice

Posted at 5:48 PM, Aug 06, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-06 22:33:17-04

One of the largest crowds came out to the Arizona Cardinal's Red and White Practice Saturday afternoon.

The event and parking was free to the public from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., with players spending time afterwards signing autographs on the field, as well. 

Prior to the start of practice, President Michael Bidwell and Head Coach Bruce Arians also addressed the crowd. They also commented on the big announcement about the contract extensions of both Larry Fitzgerald and Carson Palmer.

Many fans of all ages came out with their jerseys and red and white gear to show their support. 

ABC15 talked to a handful of people from the crowd and almost all said they planned on rooting the team all the way to the Super Bowl.

One of those in the crowd said, he is no fair-weather-fan. Eric Marshall said he has been apart of the #BirdGang since the team was based in Saint Louis. Marshall said, the team moved to Arizona on his birthday. 

"I've been a fan since the 1970s and I think they have a pretty good chance to make it to the Super Bowl this year, Marshall explained." So, I wanted to check out the practice."

A younger fan, Hunter Short, said he got a new football just so his favorite player could sign it.

"Who are you most excited to see," asked reporter Megan Thompson.

"Larry Fitzgerald... because he's my favorite," Hunter said.

Hunter also said, his team is going to take home a championship ring this year.  

But, Hunter - not even close to being the youngest fan ABC15 saw.

Nine-week-old George James Anderson was all dressed up in his #BirdGang onesie. 

His parents, Brian and Jamie Anderson, may be forcing to be at the stadium on Saturday, but - they hope this will make him a lifelong Cardinals fan. 

"Well, we just wanted to make sure we get him started early - get him excited and start new traditions," said Brian Anderson.

"He was born June 2, so this is his first football season," said Jamie Anderson. 

The family said, they hope to keep that spirit for the sport alive by taking him to events like this one every year.

When we asked what position their little one would play, the Anderson family answered: 'Kicker' because he did a lot of that in her stomach. 

Want to check out the action next time? Here's a link to the upcoming Cardinals pre-season and regular season games.