Hundreds of Milwaukee Brewers fans gathered at Dick's Sporting Goods in Brookfield for a chance to meet World Series MVP William Contreras, days after the team's championship victory. The autograph signing drew a crowd whose line extended around the store, through the surrounding complex and across the street.
The appearance followed the Brewers' World Series win on Wednesday. Fans chanted “MVP” as they waited, celebrating Contreras' new honor along with the team's championship. Contreras described struggling to put his feelings into words and said he felt as though he were floating. While acknowledging the MVP recognition, he emphasized the importance of bringing the trophy to Milwaukee.
Some of the people nearest the front of the line said they had reached the store before sunrise. Gregg Parrett said his trip took an hour and that he arrived around 6 a.m. Juan Salas came directly from a 13-hour overnight shift. By the time he joined the queue at about 7 a.m., he said, it already stretched around the building.
The store distributed 250 wristbands in order of arrival, giving recipients access to the autograph signing and a photo. Fans who made it inside said meeting Contreras justified the wait. For many, the visit offered an opportunity to see in person a player they had followed throughout the season.
Alex Billmann described Contreras as his favorite Brewers player and said he had admired him since his arrival on the team. Agustin Salas said seeing Contreras after watching his performances all season was an exciting experience, adding that the player deserved the recognition. Donna Billmann described the crowd's feelings as love and admiration.
Contreras said that affection was something he could feel. He welcomed the opportunity to hear from supporters and see the children and other young fans who had come to meet him. He said their presence made him glad to take part in the event.
Among those young supporters was Lorenzo Contreras, who was proud to share the player's last name. He described their encounter as life-changing after receiving a fist bump from the MVP. Asked by FOX6 News what he would tell children hoping to follow his path, William Contreras encouraged them to work hard and believe in themselves.
Contreras also spoke about his pride in representing Venezuelans as well as Milwaukee. He said it felt good to see people from Venezuela, including many children, despite being far from their home country. Their presence, he said, was another reason for what he was doing.
