New ticketing, security measures to Maverik Stadium

*Editor’s note: This article has been changed to reflect new information.

Over the past week, Utah State University rolled out several measures that will affect game days, namely new security measures in the Maverick Stadium and a new digital ticket-claiming service for students. Amid questions and confusion, the Utah Statesman asked questions to better understand these changes. 

Security

Several security updates have been added to the Maverick Stadium in conjunction with recommendations by the Department of Homeland Security and local law enforcement. According to Bobby Nash, the deputy athletic director over external engagement, these changes are industry standards and bring USU into alignment with similar schools and programs. 

“The safety of fans is our top priority,” Nash said.

Entry and Bag Policy

According to a press release on the USU Athletics website, clear bags ­—12 inch by 12 inches by 6 inches or smaller)— are allowed through any gate, while diaper and medical bags will only be permitted through gates B and E. Gates A and K are now limiting entry to credentialed staff and media.

The major change for students will be a new “no re-entry policy,” wherein people who leave the stadium will not be allowed to come back in. There are possible exceptions, which will have to be requested and approved by the facility and event management command of the stadium. Nash advised students to ensure they have everything they need for the game and get a clear bag for smoother sailing. 

Parking

The press release shared parking will also be adjusted for games. Four hours before kickoff, parts of 800 East close to the stadium will be blocked off, and two hours later, parts of 1000 North will also close. Alternative routes to parking lots can be found on the athletics website. There are also changes with parking payment.

“All single-game parking passes will be cashless and can be purchased in advance online for $10 or on game days at the F lot entrances for $15,” the press release said.

Ticketing

Student tickets have also changed since last season. This year, students must claim virtual tickets ahead of time to attend games. Many students expressed concern regarding this change. Dallin Wilson, the athletics & campus rec executive director, along with Nash, sympathized with student concerns.

“Change is hard, and we definitely recognize that,” Wilson said. 

Tickets are still free. For those concerned about getting seats, Wilson shared that HURD Premium members will have an earlier ticket claiming time and can still get in 15 minutes earlier than students without HURD Premium. 

“While we know it’s a change, it’s only on the front end,” Nash said. “The only major difference is  scanning a digital ticket instead of student ID.”

Nash said this change has been in the works for years and will help modernize the process.

Wilson also shared that this allows for new ease in adding tickets to virtual wallets, along with the possibility of earlier troubleshooting. In times past, students would come to scan their tickets before discovering they might have an issue, such as an unpaid fine. With the process of reserving ahead, students can discover and resolve these holds before they’re already in line at the game.

These changes also allow for more adaptable planning for the HURD and athletic department for tailgates and giveaways. 

In conclusion

All these changes were designed to keep students and fans safe and happy while cheering on the Aggies, according to Nash. 

“We’re here to support our fans and our students,” Nash said.