The Kansas City Chiefs’ wide receiver and Fresno-born professional athlete, Xavier Worthy, held a free meet-and-greet at Granite Park on Feb. 19.

Worthy, an up and coming athlete was the 28th pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. Just six months into his rookie season, Worthy played in Superbowl LIX.

Over 300 people were standing outside in line an hour before the event. Many fans were seen in Chief merchandise such as jerseys, chains and helmets.

Brodie Major, an 11-year-old boy, described himself as a mild football fan. Though when presented with the opportunity to meet Worthy, he tagged along with his grandma and younger brother, who enjoys football.

“I’m excited. It’s my first time meeting a football player,” Major said.

The average waiting time ranged between one to three hours. Regardless, fans remained in line eager to meet the star of the Central Valley.

Brayan Valenzuela, a high school football player, said the wait was worth his time because of the possibility of meeting his inspiration. He plans on transferring to Edison or Central High School, same as Worthy.

Asia DiGirolamo, an active-duty Army member stationed in San Diego, had come up to Fresno to visit her hometown for the weekend. Her sister told her about the event and she immediately headed to Fresno after her shift was over.

“I’m glad I made it,” DiGirolamo said whilst wearing her uniform.

DiGirolamo’s family arrived at the event at 3:30 p.m., and still had about 10 people in front of them in their lane, by the time it was 5:40 p.m. In total, there were four lanes dividing the waiting crowd.

Throughout the event, people’s faces were filled with pride and excitement.

Nicky Jones, Worthy’s mom, said people usually have a negative perception of Fresno when mentioning it to others.

“That’s exactly why he came back,” Jones said.

Worthy hopes to serve as an inspiration to the future generation of athletes from the Central Valley.