The University of Minnesota is announcing enhanced security measures that will be in place for the Gophers’ upcoming home football games against Illinois and Wisconsin at TCF Bank Stadium.
While U of M leaders say there is no specific threat for the games, the school will step up its security presence at the game and strengthen the stadium’s bag policy.
“We greatly value our fans, teams, stadium personnel and the visiting team and fans, and for their safety we are enhancing security operations,” said Minnesota senior associate athletics director with event management oversight, Tom McGinnis. “We have a comprehensive security plan in place and we work closely with federal, state and local law enforcement to provide a safe experience for our fans.”
The strengthened bag policy will be similar to the current bag policy for Minnesota Vikings games.
Enhanced security in place this Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium. Details on the bag policy: https://t.co/7ZJrDVkWhO pic.twitter.com/eQEwZUEETv
— Minnesota Golden Gophers (@GopherSports) November 18, 2015
Permissible bags include
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag of similar).
- Small clutch bags (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″), approximately the size of a hand
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection
Stadium personnel will provide the clear bags to transfer any needed items, while the school is also providing a bag check in the lobby of Williams Arena.
The bag check will open at 9:30 a.m. Saturday and will close one hour following the game’s conclusion. If fans are unable to retrieve their bags in the time frame they will be able to pick them up at Williams Arena’s lost and found Monday.
