Fans in Laramie are buzzing with excitement over the return of Josh Allen, the former University of Wyoming quarterback and current NFL MVP. His highly anticipated visit coincides with the retirement of his iconic No. 17 jersey, scheduled for halftime on Saturday.
Josh Allen’s Historic Return to Laramie
Allen has deep roots in Wyoming. He first gained recognition under then-head coach Craig Bohl, who was pivotal in bringing him to the University as a standout talent from a community college. This weekend, he is celebrating his significant return to the town that embraced him.
The Atmosphere in Laramie
The city is awash with excitement as fans from all over the area flock to local businesses. The Brown & Gold Outlet is particularly busy, with merchandise like Josh Allen bobbleheads flying off the shelves. Many fans are eager to capture a piece of history associated with Allen’s remarkable journey.
- Visitors are purchasing new Allen-themed gear.
- Local bars and eateries are seeing an increase in patrons.
- Long lines of fans form as early as 6 a.m. for the best seats at the game.
Denise Streeter, a lifelong resident of Laramie, expressed her enthusiasm, noting, “What a perfect weekend.” This sentiment resonates with many residents who fondly recall Allen’s college days.
Anticipating the Ceremony
During his visit, Allen is expected to interact with current UW football players. Many locals are optimistic about potentially spotting him at popular pre-game events, such as “Breakfast at the Buck,” held at the Buckhorn Bar & Parlor.
With the jersey retirement ceremony approaching, fans are reflecting on what Allen’s legacy means to them. Country music star Chancey Williams remarked, “It’s a huge deal,” reinforcing the sentiment shared by many in the community.
Impact on Local Businesses
The influx of fans has resulted in a notable boost for local businesses. Dioselyn Alatorre, store manager of Brown & Gold, shared that they had prepared for this weekend by hiring extra staff and stocking up on merchandise. “We received 10,000 Josh Allen bobbleheads, and the demand has been overwhelming,” she stated.
The return of Allen has not only excited fans but also significantly benefited Laramie’s economy, particularly for small, family-owned businesses.
A Unifying Figure for Wyoming
Allen has become a symbol of pride for Wyoming. Nolan Carter, owner of local apparel stores, expressed his admiration, stating, “He’s the perfect guy to represent Wyoming as a professional athlete.” His commitment to the community has endeared him to fans, ensuring he remains a celebrated figure in the state.
As the anticipation builds for the jersey retirement ceremony and his continued involvement in the community, fans are reflecting on their shared experiences. Many hope to catch a glimpse of Allen and ask him the question on many minds: “Aren’t you glad you came to Wyoming?”
