WARRENSBURG, Mo. -- UCM Athletics has announced that it will begin implementing a clear bag policy for Mules football games at Audrey J. Walton Stadium/Vernon Kennedy Field beginning with the upcoming 2024 season. The policy will be implemented for football games only and will not be in effect for other sports at this time. In addition, members of the Cardinal and Black Fund will be given a free UCM branded clear bag as a membership gift to be used to enter the stadium.
The goal of the policy is to promote safety and reduce wait time for entry into Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field for fans on game day. Security personnel will be able to identify items without extensive bag searches, reducing wait times.
"Clear bags allow for more efficient searches, enabling our police officers to better maintain a secure and fan friendly environment for everyone," Chief Bill Brinkley, Director of Public Safety at UCM, said.
Clear bags (typically made of plastic, vinyl or PVC) that are 12 x 6 x 12 inches or smaller will be permitted. One-gallon, resealable, clear plastic storage bags are also allowed. Small bags, the size of a "clutch", no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches are also permitted. Finally, items purchased at the University Bookstore and carried in a bag from the bookstore will be allowed.
Fans will be allowed to bring in factory sealed full clear water bottles and empty clear plastic water containers. Exceptions will also be made for diaper bags for small children and medically necessary equipment.
Prohibited bags include non-clear or oversized purses, backpacks, printed pattern plastic bags, tinted plastic bags, duffle bags, fanny packs, reusable grocery totes, mesh or straw bags, large totes and cases (for camera, binoculars, etc.). Clear water bottles that are not factory sealed may be brought in if they are empty. If there are contents in the bottle, fans will be asked to dispose of the contents before the come into the gate. Nonclear water bottles (including but limited to metal, tinted, or colored bottles) are not allowed.
Members of the Cardinal & Black Fund may pick up their clear bags with Assistant AD of Development, Ryan Snyder prior to the season or at each of the Cardinal & Black Fund Tailgate area prior to each home football game. The No. 2-ranked Mules open their season on Saturday, September 7th at 1 p.m. when they host Northeastern State at Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field.
UCM Clear Bag Policy Q&A
Why is this policy being adopted for UCM football games?
The goal of the policy is to promote safety and reduce wait time for entry into Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field for fans on game day. Security personnel will be able to identify items without extensive bag searches, reducing wait times. This policy will also allow security personnel to more quickly and easily identify possible security threats.
What types of bags are permitted at Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field?
Approved bags include clear (typically plastic, vinyl, or PVC) bags that do not exceed 12"x 6"x 12"; one gallon clear, resealable plastic storage bags; and small clutch bags no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand) with or without a handle or strap.
Is this policy in effect at other UCM Athletics events besides football?
At this time, the policy will only be in place for Mules football games.
Are purses or handbags permitted at ticketed events?
All bags that enter the venue must be clear and meet sizing requirements, regardless of bag type. So only purses or handbags that meet the requirements will be allowed.
How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each person is permitted one (1) clear plastic bag and one (1) small clutch per the size restrictions outlined above. This includes children.
If I am a Cardinal and Black Fund Member, how do I get my free clear bag?
Members of the Cardinal & Black Fund may pick up their clear bags with Assistant AD of Development, Ryan Snyder prior to the season or at each of the Cardinal & Black Fund Tailgate area prior to each home football game.
Can I carry items such as cameras, binoculars, phones, or tablets separately from what I put in a clear bag?
Yes. Fans can continue to carry approved items (such as keys, phones, wallets, blankets, seat cushions, etc.). They do not need to be inside the bag or clutch. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the stadium.
Are diaper bags allowed into Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field?
Yes. Families with small children will be allowed to bring in diaper bags. But they will be subject to search for security purposes.
What happens if I show up at the entrance with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans with a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the stadium with their bag. They will need to return their belongings to their vehicle if their bag does not meet the guidelines.
If I have certain medical items/equipment that I need to bring into the venue what do I do?
Fans with medically necessary items may enter at any gate but will be subject to additional screening.
What if I shop at the UCM Bookstore on game day?
Fans who purchase items from the UCM Bookstore will be permitted to bring their shopping bag into Walton Stadium/Kennedy Field, subject to search.
