Clear bag policy at TAMUK

TAMUK prohibits non-clear bags at athletic events

The fall semester has begun and fall sports are back here at TAMUK. New rules and regulations were set at the beginning of the 2022-2023 fall season for all sports including new clear bag policy.  

These guidelines limit the size of your bag and the type of bag you bring into Javelina Stadium or any athletic venue at the university. 

Athletic Director Steve Roach said the policy is about safety.  

“The LSC (Lone Star Conference) has made this kind of thing really common practice as of late,” Roach said. “We also want to ensure safety amongst the fans, making sure there is no alcohol being snuck into our venues and other things of that nature.” 

The exact guidelines are: bags that are clear and do not exceed 12 inches long by 12 inches high by six inches wide, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag, small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, not exceeding 4 ½ inches by 6 1/2 inches, and clear backpacks that do not exceed 12 by 6 by 12 inches. 

The specific items not allowed in the stadiums will remain the same, prohibiting things such as alcohol, tobacco, outside food and drinks, noisemakers, ice chests and pets. 

“The policy does not really affect me in a certain way,” freshman Abigail said. “If the reason is for safety, then it will make it safer to attend the sporting events here in my free time.” 

Cameras, binoculars, electronics and seating cushions are not prohibited if they are not concealed in unauthorized bags upon entry of the Pepsi Field or the SPEC.  

Alex Smith, defensive lineman for the Javelina football team, supports this new policy and sees its benefits. 

“Keeping our fans safe is the first step to opening more to the community and getting more people in the stands for this upcoming year,” Smith said. 

This university brings in all manner of athletes from different regions of the country and from overseas.  Roach assures that the number one priority is to provide the safest environment for the young men and women who chose to be Javelinas in their athletic careers. 

“My job is to not only provide coaches with the tools to give a great experience, but to take care of the children of parents who trust this university as a place for their children,” Roach said. “The safety of our student-athletes, coaches and spectators are always first.”