New York Cosmos ticket plan holders lined up behind Margiotta Hall at Shuart Stadium to get a glimpse of their idols on Sunday, following a 1-1 draw against Rayo OKC. It was Meet the Team Night, and the first 2,000 fans were treated to a free team poster courtesy of Peak Performance.

At one table sat captain Carlos Mendes and defender David Ochieng, who appeared to be putting on a musical act for fans, beating the table like a drum. At another table, Venezuelan star Juan Arango signed, chatted, and took plenty of photos with the fans.

The fans enjoyed sharing time with their favorite players up close and personal, but the players also savored the opportunity to meet the fans.

“It makes us closer. It’s like a family,” said midfielder Ruben Bover. “It makes the Cosmos family even bigger. The fans, for us, are everything. We play not only for ourselves but for them, too.”

Mendes, a Long Island native, said that he enjoys being a role model and hometown hero to many Cosmos fans.

“I think that’s an honor,” he said. “I try to lead by example and hopefully be someone that kids can look up to.”

Common bonds were forged between fans and players. Defender Alexis Velela, an 18-year-old United States youth international from San Diego, met one fan who asked for travel advice for an upcoming trip to the West Coast. Velela was pleased to offer his advice about the best tourist attractions near San Diego.

“It’s exciting because you get to meet people from everywhere, and it feels really good,” Velela said. “I think it’s always great for people to know where I’m from and actually ask me for places they want to go to. I think it’s pretty fun.”

The fourth annual Meet the Team Night was a success, and featured many signatures, pictures and laughs.

“I appreciate the fans. They always come out and support us,” said forward Lucky Mkosana. “So we always try our best to give back, showing them that we appreciate everything they do for us.”

To become a Cosmos ticket plan holder, call 855-71-COSMOS or visit nycomsos.com/tickets.