Northwestern University Athletics
Northwestern Implements Heightened Security at Ryan Field
9/24/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 24, 2001
In response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., Northwestern University will step up security precautions at Ryan Field to ensure the safety of football fans attending games this season, starting with Saturday's home game vs. Michigan State.
"We're encouraging fans to come early and expect delays at stadium entrances," said Northwestern Athletic Director Rick Taylor. "We want our fans to enjoy the game in a safe environment, yet realize they may have to make some personal sacrifices. The best rule of thumb may be: don't bring it if you don't need it."
In addition to previously banned items such as noisemakers, alcohol and glass objects, Northwestern officials will prohibit fans from bringing large purses, coolers, bags, backpacks and fanny packs into the stadium. Any smaller items brought into the stadium are subject to inspection by authorized officials. Anybody attempting to bring any prohibited items into Ryan Field will be asked to return them to their vehicle.
Among the additional safety and stadium gameday procedures which will be in place in and around Ryan Field for the remainder of the season:
* Increased number of security and stadium personnel.
* A "no-fly zone" within a one-nautical-mile radius of Ryan Field. For instance, the no-fly zone was in effect from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the Sept. 29 Michigan State game.
Prohibited items include: alcohol, video cameras, large lens cameras, tripods, wine skins, strollers, glass or cans, thermoses of any size, picnic baskets, ice chests, horns of any kind, fanny packs, and leaflets not approved by the University.
In addition, fans are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to uniformed security personnel at the stadium.
The Wildcat football team, as well as all NU varsity squads, will be wearing a U.S. flag on their uniforms for the season.
