Hold up, Missouri fans; you’re going to have to check your bag. The SEC has implemented a “clear bag policy” starting this fall.
If you’re like me, then you probably preferred the lightweight convenience of a drawstring backpack. It fits any emergency supplies such as rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, mittens–you get the idea–perfectly! This fall, fans will have to be a little more cautious, if they need to bring those extra game-day essentials with them.
Gone are the days of strapping on a fanny pack (does anyone still use these?) to carry any incidentals with them into the stadium, unless they’re clear.
"“SEC football stadiums are among the largest venues in the world of sports, so safety and security are issues that must always remain a priority for our events. We believe this policy is an important enhancement to the security measures already put in place by our institutions.”"
Missouri Tigers Football
The good news for others, is that for the foreseeable future, some grandsons will be spared having to hold granny’s purse while waiting in line. While some SEC schools previously implemented their own bag policy, Mizzou will begin enforcing the SEC’s bag policy in 2017.
The newly implemented bag policy, approved by a unanimous vote of the league’s athletic directors, outlines a variety of specifications, including size, type, and even logo size (not to exceed 4.5″ x 3.4″) will be required to comply with new standards.
Fans will still be permitted to bring items such as makeup, car keys, cameras, mobile phones, combs, wallets, binoculars, etc. Blankets are permissible, provided that the fan “tosses it over a shoulder or arm.”
There is no limit to the number of bags in a group of people, but will be limited to one bag per person. The bag may be a gallon-sized Ziplock-style or made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and may not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12,” plus a small clutch that does not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5,” thus allowing privacy for any small personal items that may be easily searched.
Items of medical necessity will be permitted, but there will be a specially designated entrances to allow for the screening of these items.
The SEC’s policy states that seat cushions are still permissible, but fans are encouraged to check the University of Missouri Athletic Department’s policy, to decide whether seat cushions are allowed and to view a complete breakdown of the “do’s and don’ts” beginning fall 2017.