University of Virginia To Implement New Security Measures At Home Football Games

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September 21

CHARLOTTESVILLE – In the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, University of Virginia officials announced today new security procedures for home football games. The procedures will be implemented beginning with the Cavaliers’ Sept. 29 game against Duke.

“We’re asking U.Va.’s football fans for their support in this matter as we work together to reasonably ensure the safety of everyone attending home games in Scott Stadium – including our students, faculty, alumni, staff, and guests,” said Paul E. Norris Jr., U.Va. chief of police. “We are among the hundreds of colleges and universities nationwide that are instituting these necessary precautions.”

The University’s procedures, developed in consultation with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, include:

o Ticket holders will not be allowed to leave the stadium and return during the game. The FBI has recommended that colleges and universities institute this “no pass” policy.

o Backpacks, bags, carryalls and totes will no longer be allowed inside the stadium. People should expect that diaper bags or bags holding essential medicines will be checked.

o Alcohol, food, umbrellas, containers, coolers and video cameras continue to be prohibited.

o Banners, flags and signs attached to sticks or poles also continue to be prohibited.

o The Federal Aviation Administration will restrict air space over the stadium.

“We hope our fans will understand that these policies have been implemented for the safety and security of everyone attending football games at the University of Virginia,” said Craig Littlepage, director of athletics. “We realize that the re-entry policy has been important to many of our fans, but security concerns must come before all else. The Atlantic Coast Conference athletic directors, faculty representatives, and Commissioner John Swofford have talked extensively about these measures, and the procedures we’re implementing are recommended by the ACC.”

The additional security measures may cause some delays at the gates, so ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early at the Carl Smith Center, home of Scott Stadium. The gates for Virginia home football games open two hours before kickoff. The Duke game is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m., with the gates opening at 11 a.m.