A couple hundred people showed up last night to jump around in the cold and get pumped up for Sporting KC in the playoffs. It wasn’t necessary. This city is already pretty amped up. But that doesn’t mean the fans didn’t have a good time at the event, which was yet another testament to how much the organization cares about the fans.

Check out the video from the event, or read my quick summary below:

The highlights: Manager Peter Vermes rallied the crowd and honestly answered questions about who we’re looking to face. He mirrored the sentiment of all SKC fans, saying his eyes would be glued to the TV tonight to see the outcome of the Houston vs. Chicago match, the winner of which plays Sporting on November 4th. Owner and CEO Robb Heineman also took the mic, admitting that the best seat in the stadium is in the supporters section (yes, he often hangs out there during games) and that the owner’s goal all along has been to bring trophies to Kansas City. Then the players came on stage! Defender Matt Besler gave his own rendition of the Tim Tebow “I promise” speech and then handed the mic to US MNT star Graham Zusi, who led the crowd in KC’s favorite chant: I Believe That We Will Win.

However, the best was saved for last. Local rapper B Double E debuted his new song on stage. Warning: if you listen, I BE SPORTING KC will be stuck in your head all day, but you’ll have the joy of watching the players’ reactions as he raps (my favorite is Sinovic). My insider info tells me the rapper will be filming the music video at the stadium tonight, so get excited for that!

In other Sporting KC news, the team revealed its nominations for the 2012 MLS awards.

Matt Besler and Jimmy Nielsen

MVP finalist: Graham Zusi

Coach of the Year: Peter Vermes

Allstate Goalkeeper of the Year: Jimmy Nielsen

Defender of the Year: Matt Besler

MLS W.O.R.K.S. Humanitarian of the Year: Kei Kamara

These awesome guys and I will see you in the playoffs!