As the scorching sun beat down on Wareham crossing on Thursday, multitudes of Wareham Gatemen fans were determined to beat the heat in order to meet their favorite players.

“I love going to their games, so it’s really cool to meet them in real life,” said Timothy, 9, who received autographs from several of his favorite Gatemen.

The Gatemen Day event, which is held every year, is an opportunity for Gatemen fans to meet players and collect autographs, as well as play games and enjoy other activities, such as face painting.

For the players themselves, meeting fans is a great opportunity to feel the support that the Wareham community throws behind them.

“It lets you know that people are watching you. It’s a good experience,” says infielder Ethan Gross of the University of Memphis.

When asked what it’s like to sign autographs for young fans, Gatemen second baseman Tino Lipson of UC Davis said, “I know how I felt about players when I was a kid, put yourself in their shoes and it’s pretty awesome.”

The Gatemen regularly participate in community activities like Gatemen Day, even running a summer baseball camp for young players.

While Thursday’s event may have been hot, it didn’t stop young fans from showing their support for the Gatemen.