The Carolina Panthers are preparing for their annual Fan Fest, scheduled for Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium. This event will mark the first time fans can watch the team practice in person this preseason, as ongoing construction on the indoor facility has kept spectators away from earlier sessions.
First-round draft pick Tetairoa McMillan expressed enthusiasm about performing in front of supporters for the first time. “That’s exciting for me,” McMillan said. “Obviously, just being my first time to make a first impression on the fans over here and being able to showcase my talents in front of everybody.”
The team plans to practice in full pads during Fan Fest, with head coach Dave Canales indicating that fans can expect a session similar to a live scrimmage. Outside linebacker D.J. Wonnum welcomed the announcement: “Oh, we live tomorrow?” Wonnum said, eyebrows raised. “Oh yeah, let’s do it. Let’s go. I’m excited.”
While Canales clarified that it may not be a fully live game situation, he emphasized that coaches would be able to observe how players handle increased energy levels brought by an audience and game-like atmosphere.
“I’m really excited to just get the extra energy that comes with a game-like environment,” Canales said. “It feels to me like we used to have four preseason games. It feels like that first opportunity for us to suit up. We’ll be in full pads. We’ll get all of our special teams units a couple of full-speed reps to evaluate it.
“But also just the gratification of making a play here, making a tackle, making a nice catch, or a big run. And the successes that come with that and being able to feed off the energy of the fans.”
Tickets remain available for $5 each, with proceeds benefiting Panthers Charities.
