Gang Green is taking over Cortland. The New York Jets arrived in town Thursday for the start of their training camp. Our Kat De Maria was there and brings us to the festivities.

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CORTLAND, N.Y. -- It was a brief stop on the way to their 2012 training camp. But the fans were waiting on Main Street in Cortland with a big welcome for the New York Jets.

"I came here to watch the Jets," Antonio Palmer said.

"Everybody gets together and welcomes them. I think it's great," said Judy Shanley.

Cortland is glad to have the team back after a one year hiatus due to the NFL lockout.

Cortland Mayor Brian Tobin said, "When people get here, there are a lot of nice places to eat, have a beverage, shops."

The owner of the Dark Horse Tavern, the site of the biggest party Thursday, says he's hoping to add another quarterback to his list of patrons.

"With Mark coming in town today and Tim, we've never met Tim, so we're looking forward to that. The guys like to come down here and hang out," Dark Horse Tavern owner George Seibel said.

The Dark Horse must have the inside scoop because he's right!

"I can't tell you how much we missed you. It obviously showed on the field," coach Rex Ryan said.

People in Cortland proudly pointed out that the Jets went to the AFC championship game both years they trained in the city. Fans are hoping for the Superbowl this year. And then of course there's the added excitement of Gang Green's newest member.

"With Tebow here, it's going to bring a lot more people obviously. But it's good to see the regular Jets fans who are out there, who have been Jets fans forever. Like my mother," Chris Hendriks said.

Coach Ryan acknowledges that fans who come to Cortland have been patient. And he says their warm welcome won't be in vain.

Ryan said, "We're going to give you plenty to cheer about this season."

The first practice open to the public is Saturday at 8 a.m. at SUNY Cortland. YNN will be providing complete coverage throughout training camp.

The City of Cortland welcomed the Jets to the city on Thursday. You can watch that welcome below.

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