Dear Great Dane Fans,

In order to help provide a safer environment for our fans and student-athletes and to expedite fan entry into Casey Stadium, UAlbany Athletics has partnered with the University at Albany Police Department to implement a new Stadium Bag Policy.  This new Stadium Bag Policy is effective immediately and will be implemented for this Saturday's game, September 24, 2016, versus Saint Francis University.

PERMISSIBLE BAGS/ITEMS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• One clear bag no larger than 12" by x 6" x 12" OR a one-gallon plastic storage bag.
• One small clutch bag or purse no larger than 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a strap. Additional clothing, blankets, etc. are permitted if carried loosely or in an approved clear bag. (Blankets should be carried over the shoulder to be screened more quickly).
• Small cameras, binoculars and cell phones may be carried in loosely or in an approved clear bag.
• Guests wearing jackets, coats, cargo pants and/or baggy clothing will be subject to being searched.
• Ticket holders, including children, are limited to one clear bag or clutch purse per guest.

ADDITIONAL PROHIBITED ITEMS AND INFORMATION:

Any type of non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” in size including purses/handbags, camera or binocular cases, backpacks, fanny packs, and briefcases/computer bags.

• Portable seating or cushions of any size are not permitted. Portable seatbacks may be rented at the customer service tent located on the concourse, near the North Ticket Box.
• Bottles, cans, thermoses, coolers, alcoholic beverages, outside food or drink, portable chairs/seats, umbrellas, professional cameras and tripods, noise makers, banners/signs/sticks, chains, illegals substances, firearms, laser pointers, strollers, fireworks, aerosol cans, pets, pepper spray, and any item deemed by management as dangerous or inappropriate.
• Diaper bags are not permitted.  However, diapers and wipes may be carried in a clear bag.

The University at Albany and the Athletic Department are not responsible for items left behind, lost, stolen, or damaged.  Thank you for supporting UAlbany Athletics. If you have any questions please contact a UAlbany Athletics customer service representative at 518-442-DANE.

BAG POLICY FAQ

Why did UAlbany Athletics adopt this policy?
Fan experience and the safety of our guests is a top priority of UAlbany Athletics.  World events continue to shape the methods utilized for venue security and UAlbany – along with many other collegiate programs and professional leagues – is instituting this policy to enhance public safety and make venue access more efficient and secure by limiting the size and style of bags carried into our venues.

How does the new policy improve public safety?
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.

How does this make it more convenient for guests?
This will enable us to move guests through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the venue.  We also believe guests will realize an improved sense of safety.

How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each ticketed guest can carry one large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or the 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small clutch purse (4.5” x 6.5”). The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.

Can guests carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars, smartphones and/or cameras can be carried into the venue so long as they are not in their own case.  Guests may carry in their pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, combs, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if they choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch.

What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Guests may bring blankets by carrying them over a shoulder or arm, allowing guests to be easily screened.

What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Guests carrying bags that do not meet the criteria will be asked to return them to their vehicles.

If I have certain items that I need to bring into the venue for medical reasons and they won't fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
Guests carrying medically necessary bags or equipment into a venue will be required to have their bag inspected and tagged by security. For questions about medical equipment or other needs please contact the UAlbany Athletics customer service office at 518-442-DANE.

Are all purses prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12" by 6" by 12" clear tote bag or one-gallon freezer bag. This should enable guests to carry the same items they have in previous years and expedite entry into the venue.

Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not permissible items that are brought to a game. Therefore, guests can carry in their pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if they choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch purse (4.5” x 6.5”). And they can carry a blanket over their arms, and binoculars and/or camera around their necks or in their hands without the case. Guests can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items.

What about diaper bags?
Diapers and other baby supplies can be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, would be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the venue.