NBT Bank Stadium is now Mets Country.

The Syracuse Mets kicked off their inaugural season Thursday, welcoming in thousands of fans into NBT Bank Stadium on opening day.

“We love the Skychiefs or the Syracuse Chiefs, but we’re lifetime Mets fans,” said Mets fan Ryan Wicks. “What’s better than having your favorite team playing in your hometown?”

Months of anticipation leading up to Opening Day and fans just couldn't wait. Some lined up as early as five hours before the game to meet the Mets and to get a hat to keep warm.

“I love my fluffy warm hat,” said Mets fan Joanne Demma. “Cause you need these kinds of hats when you live around here you need these trapper hats.”

The main attraction on Thursday? Tim Tebow.

“I love Tim Tebow,” said fan William Hazard. “I love what he stands for. Good example for kids. I have two young boys, so we love Tim Tebow.”

“It’s been a long journey and I know his goal is to make the majors, so I hope that he does that,” said Demma. “And I’m praying for him. So John 3:16 cause he’s a nice Christian boy.”

“It’s very exciting,” said Wicks. “It’s good for the economy. It’s been a long time since Syracuse had a big superstar in. Good for revenue, good for the economy.”

Tebow isn’t the only superstar to see this season. With a new team, there’s a roster of new players.

The Syracuse lineup boasts thousands of games of major league experience.

“It’s the first time in many years we’ve had this much major league talent here in Syracuse, so I’m excited to see the other guys play too,” said Demma. “And I’m hoping to have a winning season.”

8,823 fans packed the ballpack on Opening Day. Unfortunately for the Mets fans, they fell to the PawSox 6-3 in 10 innings.