Lions make it right, become more accessible to their fans

[The_Philster]

DETROIT--Ford Field and the Allen Park practice facility were supposed to be blessings for Lions fans.

After all, they'd have a state-of-the-art stadium in which to watch Lions games. And the new practice facility, an NFL showplace by all accounts, would allow the Lions to compete for the best free-agent talent on the market.

Just one thing: The fans weren't allowed at either last year to watch the Lions practice. Many, no doubt, were upset. For years, fans, at least those willing to make the drive to Saginaw Valley State, were able to take in a practice or two. ...
more (http://www.detnews.com/2003/lions/0308/02/h01-233687.htm)

[The_Philster]

About 28,000 faithful gather at Ford Field to get autographs and a look at the players
DETROIT -- Wayne Walter gave the shirt off his back Sunday to meet one of the newest members of the Detroit Lions.

Walter waited for nearly an hour in line in the atrium at Ford Field to get an autograph from Charles Rogers. When it was finally his turn, he took off his Lions T-shirt to give to Rogers to autograph -- and then proudly put it back on.

"I think he is going to be exciting to watch," said a thrilled Walter, 48, of Waterford Township. "I think we have some younger guys with positive attitudes."

Nearly 28,000 fans filled the lower bowl of Ford Field on Sunday for the Lions' free two-hour practice and a one-hour autograph session. The crowd represented a broad spectrum of Lions fans, and new coach Steve Mariucci was genuinely touched by their reaction....
more (http://www.detnews.com/2003/lions/0308/04/c01-235161.htm)