TAMPA - At 2 a.m. Saturday, Laquntas Marcus got out of bed and began ironing her sons' clothes. After all, things had to be just right.
By 7, Marcus, husband Milton and sons Milton Jr., 11, Terrance and Keith, 10, and Emaji, 2, were dressed in full Buccaneers ensemble and began the drive from their Lakeland home to the Bucs Fanfest at Raymond James Stadium.
Keith said he wanted Ronde Barber's autograph. Terrance and dad wanted Keenan McCardell's. Milton Jr. wanted them all.
"What we have here is a chance to inspire the kids," Milton Marcus said. "They all play football and they are all huge Bucs fans. Whatever they want to do, I back them. When you have an event like this, it gives them inspiration to come out and see the players, realize that they are human and see just how big the stadium is. They have never been in the stadium so it's a good experience. And to meet their heroes, it's even better."
The Bucs are banking that for an estimated 45,000 who braved scorching temperatures, herded from one concourse to the other, the experience was as rewarding.
"This is special because it's the one time you get a chance to come out and show how much you appreciate the fans and their support throughout the season," third-year safety John Howell said. "Without the fans, we don't have a job. They're important and we should never take them for granted. They show us their support and it's our turn to show them our support."
The players, coaches and owners, including Malcolm Glazer, did that and then some. Nearly the entire team signed autographs, posed for pictures, shook hands and generally spread some good will to the thousands who routinely pack their venue.
"There's a time and a place for everything," linebacker Derrick Brooks said. "I enjoy it. As long as I can stay humble by this experience, and I think we all pretty much do, then it's a great experience."
By splitting the autograph sessions into two shifts and ensuring fans could get only one item signed, lines moved with relative ease. To keep fans and players out of the heat, all autograph sessions were in the mid-level concourse or third-level suites.
Defensive tackle Warren Sapp ignored his phobia about traveling on Friday the 13th and flew from Houston to be in Tampa.
"Yesterday, I had to get on a plane and fly home to be here," Sapp said. "I normally won't make that decision to get on a plane on Friday 13, but I did. It's part of the obligation you have as a Buc. ... The merchandise has gotten a little different, though. They say, "Champions' on them. I noticed that."
Fullback Mike Alstott said spending two hours signing autographs is no chore.
"I think it's kind of an honor, really," Alstott said. "I guess you could look at it the other way - if they don't want your autograph then something's wrong. It's a professional duty, but the fans make things happen."
NOTABLE ABSENTEES: Quarterback Brad Johnson, receiver Keyshawn Johnson and defensive end Simeon Rice did not attend. Brad Johnson had a commitment with his football camp in Tampa. Saturday's event originally was scheduled for June 7 but was rescheduled to coincide with the team's private ring ceremony party Saturday night.
Running back Michael Pittman, scheduled to be arraigned on two felony counts of aggravated assault Thursday in Phoenix, was also absent.
NO SPECIAL TREATMENT: Coach Jon Gruden, who revved up fans during his question and answer session, did not play favorites.
"I've got three little boys and they are all standing in line today trying to get players' autographs," Gruden said of Jon, 9, Michael, 6, and Jayson, 3. "They're in line. They're doing it the right way. That's the way it's supposed to be. As a kid, I did the same thing."
POLITICAL PRESENCE: Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio dropped by to schmooze with players and coaches and said Saturday's packed house is further proof of the important role of professional franchises and professional athletes in the community.
"To these young people, these guys are role models," said Iorio, who attended with her 13-year-old son, Graham Woodard. "What strikes me is the young kids here today and how they really look up to these athletes. Many of these athletes do so much in the community. They are role models. ... The big deal about these guys is what it took to get there. You have to be disciplined and meet failure and keep going. When you're a city of Super Bowl champions it sets an example of what it takes to succeed in life."
MICHAEL'S LEGACY: In memory of their son, Michael William, who died on March 24, receiver Joe Jurevicius and his wife, Meagan, are trying to help find the cure for sialidosis, a cellular genetic disease. The couple asks that donations to be sent "In memory of Michael William Jurevicius/Research," March of Dimes, 405 N Reo St. Suite 105, Tampa, FL 33609.
