MANKATO — The Minnesota Vikings say about 69,000 football fans attended training camp in Mankato this year.

The Vikings said good-bye to local fans after the team’s last practice in Mankato Wednesday — at least until next year. Just before camp opened, the Vikings signed an agreement with Minnesota State University to host training camp through 2015.

Vikings spokesman Jeff Anderson said that attendance was strong from the first day and continued throughout the 3-week camp. Last year, 52,000 fans attended camp.

Visit Mankato spokeswoman Anna Thill says the Vikings generate about $5 million each year for the Mankato area economy.