Tiger Bookstore, located on Walker Avenue, sells clear bags in many sizes. The Liberty Bowl Stadium will be adopting a new clear bag policy for all ticketed events.
Before tailgating and cheering on the Tigers this football season, University of Memphis students and fans might need to double check what they’re bringing to the game.
The Liberty Bowl Stadium is adopting a clear bag policy, prohibiting bags like backpacks and purses for the 2017-18 season during all ticketed events.
Mark Alnutt, U of M deputy athletic director, said the policy is nation-wide.
“(The policy) helps from a safety standpoint, but it also helps customer service by simplifying the inspection process,†Alnutt said.
Acceptable bags include clear plastic, vinyl or PVC that do not exceed 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags and small clutch bags that can fit in one’s hand. This policy does not include tailgating, so fans’ pregame rituals will not be affected.
Tiger Bookstore is selling clear bags for the new stadium policy, so students can be prepared. However, if an individual does not bring a bag of this variety to the Liberty Bowl, they can purchase one at the stadium.
Caleb Enzor, a biochemistry junior, said this new policy will help game-days run more smoothly.
“I think this new process will help security and cut the inspection time in half,†Enzor said. “This helps us as students to get in the stadium more quickly and painlessly.â€
Press bags for journalists and medical bags for those with specific needs are a few exceptions to the policy.
This change in policy has made its way from NFL programs to a collegiate level. Â Along with the U of M, all SEC schools will implement the clear bag policy for the 2017-18 football season.
The Liberty Bowl Stadium follows The NFL policy closely. The same motivations in aiming for better customer service and safety conditionscan be found in the NFL Stadium Bag Policy. While it does require some work on the consumer end, it is ultimately to help the consumer.
Erica Henderson, a junior music business major, said she knew this change in policy was bound to happen sooner or later.
“This policy has been popular among big venues, such as NFL games and concerts for a while now,†Henderson said. “I’m not surprised it’s made its way to the collegiate football sector.â€
So, Tiger fans, don’t forget to grab your clear bags before the game this Thursday and cheer on the Tigers.
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