CONTACT: Chief David Perry, (850) 644-1240; <dlperry@admin.fsu.edu>

Sept. 4, 2008

FSU FOOTBALL FANS ADVISED TO MAKE EARLY ARRIVAL PART OF GAME PLAN

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- As the Florida State University Seminoles gear up for the first of seven home football games to be played in Tallahassee this season, FSU police are urging fans to be aware of several changes that could affect their entry into Doak Campbell Stadium.

“Several gate entry areas have changed since last year,” said FSU Police Chief David Perry. “Gates G, L and M are designated for students only; students must have their FSU ID with them to enter with a student ticket. In addition, for security purposes, all football tickets now have barcodes that will be individually scanned before each fan is permitted to enter the stadium, and no one will be allowed to re-enter the stadium once he or she exits.

“With these and other changes, we encourage FSU football fans to arrive early so they don’t miss any of the action on the field,” Perry said.

Perry added that university police will begin closing off roads and posting “no parking” signs in various locations around the stadium the afternoon prior to each home game. Fans who park in prohibited areas, such as landscaped areas and sidewalks, are subject to being ticketed or having their vehicle towed. Westbound traffic on West Jefferson Street before, during and after FSU games will not have access to stadium parking; all stadium parking traffic must use Pensacola Street.

In addition, Doak Campbell Stadium will be closed at 2 p.m. on the afternoon preceding each game; Stadium Drive will be closed down at 5 a.m. on each game day; and Coyle E. Moore Athletic Center will be closed to fans two hours before each home game.

Football fans are encouraged to park at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center or neighboring state parking garages and take the Spirit Express shuttle to the stadium. The shuttle costs $3 per person for the round trip, and children under 12 ride free. The shuttle service begins two hours prior to kickoff.

A link containing helpful game-day information and maps can be found on the FSU Police Department’s Web site, <www.police.fsu.edu>.

Perry reminded fans that once inside the stadium, they must abide by the following rules:

• No coolers, ice chests, ice bags, large backpacks, umbrellas, large flags or banners on sticks will be allowed.
• No smoking is permitted except in designated outdoor areas (including gate areas B and L).
• No baby carriages or chair backs too large for a single seat are allowed.
• No alcohol is permitted. Possession of alcoholic beverages in the stands will result in ejection and possible criminal charges.
• No beach balls or passing people over fans’ heads will be allowed.

Should fans attending the game have any problems with unruly or abusive behavior in their section, they are encouraged to call a special number, (850) 645-JERK (5375). Law enforcement officers will respond promptly and take appropriate action if needed.

Once inside Doak Campbell Stadium, FSU fans will notice a number of new changes. Among them:

• Two enormous new scoreboards featuring high-definition video screens and several LED message boards will make their debut.
• A new introduction of the football team, featuring the FSU Marching Chiefs as well as Osceola and Renegade, will be unveiled.
• A new spot in the North End Zone stands will be reserved for six former FSU players each year.
• Five automated teller machines will be located inside the stadium. (See the game-day link above for locations.)

“As always, we’re looking forward to a safe and successful football season,” Perry said. “If all fans attending FSU home games will familiarize themselves with the rules and procedures, and leave themselves plenty of time to get to each game, it will make for a much more enjoyable experience for everyone.”

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