Mustangs fans get hands-on first look at team

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- St. Joseph Mustangs fans got a first look at this year's edition of the 10-time MINK league champs at Mustangs FanFest Tuesday night.

The free event at Phil Welch Stadium invited locals to get to know players and have some fun doing so.

Competing in events including national anthem singing auditions, and a kids' home run derby.

"I was counting down this day, the day after the season ended last year," said Mustangs superfan Kevin Little, "it's just a great experience."

Kevin's grandson, Jayden Little, grew up watching the Mustangs. Now the Lafayette High School alumnus plays for them.

"It's kind of a full circle moment for me," said Little, "I get to play in the same shoes as these guys that were doing, and I just thought it was so cool as a kid, I feel like I have to be a part of it every year."

"I love it, man..." the younger Little added, reflecting on the opportunity to get to know young Mustangs fans. "Just hanging around with these kids all the time... that was me at one point. So I love to do everything I can for them. Just try to make the experience just as cool, if not better than it was for me. And just kind of pass it down."

Little's Mustangs teammate, Chris Coy, played his high school ball on the opposite side of town, for Benton High School. He believes the Mustangs offer an unmatched experience for fans.

"Nobody does summer baseball like the St. Joe Mustangs," said Coy. "Coming out to a game... I've never met a fan that doesn't love it. We have a great team. We've won a lot of MINK league championships, so come out, support us. We love having you guys. And you know, I love St. Joe more than anybody."

For Mustangs owner Ky Turner, events like FanFest encapsulate the fun that sports are supposed to offer the community.

"I love the kids' home Run Derby," said Turner. "It's just great for kids to come out here. That's what sport is supposed to be. Is for fun. And to see kids out here interacting with our Mustangs players. It's a blast."

Jayden Little offered a message for fans who didn't make it out to FanFest, who might be on the fence about attending a game this year:

"First off, if you don't plan on coming out, you have to," said Little. "It's the most fun thing you'll be a part of, even being a fan. You guys are involved in the game just as much as we are as players. So you got to come out here, and we appreciate every bit of support that you guys give us around St. Joe. So if you're not planning on coming out, you guys have to come out at some point."

The Mustangs open their season Wednesday night against the Kansas City Monarchs. First pitch is at 6:30.