By Ball State Sports—
MUNCIE, IN—Ball State Athletics has initiated a new “clear bag” policy at its ticketed athletic events (plus baseball and softball games), starting with the upcoming 2025-26 academic year.
The new policy was put in place to enhance existing security and public safety measures at Scheumann Stadium, Worthen Arena, Shebek Stadium and the Ball State Softball Stadium. Now a standard at many college and most pro sports facilities, the policy is designed to regulate the size and types of bags that may be carried into the venue for all events.
Benefits of the clear bag policy include quicker and more effective bag checks at venue entrances, reducing wait times for entry and improving the overall fan experience. The policy also helps standardize security measures across all venues and it helps prevent prohibited items from entering the event space.
Clear bags branded with the team or school logo will be available for purchase at the campus book store to encourage compliance.
“This will be a new process for everyone this year, and we appreciate the cooperation of our fans to ensure their experience on game days is a positive one,” said Director of Athletics Jeff Mitchell. “We are committed to providing a safe and fun environment for all individuals attending our events, and as a best practice across college and professional sports, the clear bag policy will help us achieve this goal.”
The policy will first be enforced for the women’s volleyball exhibition match against Cedarville University on Saturday, Aug. 23 (2 p.m.). The first time the policy will be enacted at Scheumann Stadium is on Sept. 13 when the football team hosts New Hampshire in its home opener at 2 p.m. (Tailgate lots open at 10:00 a.m.).
Permissible bags include:
– Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″.
– Small clutch bags, no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, with or without a handle or strap.
– One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar).
– Spectators will be allowed to carry other items into the stadium, such as binoculars, non-professional cameras and smart phones, etc., but cases for these items are not permitted.
– Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items, but only after proper inspection.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
– Large purses
– Coolers
– Backpacks and briefcases
– Fanny packs
– Mesh bags
– Tinted or pattern-designed plastic bags
– Any bag larger than the permissible size
Non-compliant bags may not be placed into acceptable bags. Oversized bags may not be rolled, folded or otherwise manipulated to meet the sizing requirements.
Working personnel, including credentialed media members, will be subject to screening and bag inspections.
A complete list of prohibited items is available at BallStateSports.com
