If you’re planning on heading to any Mississippi State football games this season, you’ll want to allow for a little extra time to get into the stadium.
Metal detectors have been added to the gates at Davis Wade Stadium as MSU becomes one of the first SEC schools to implement a policy that requires each stadium to have the new security measure by 2020.
According to a news release from MSU, fans will be asked to place large metal items such as phones, keys, cameras, seat cushions and even cowbells in containers or in their clear bag on screening tables before passing through the metal detectors. Unlike an airport, you will be able to keep your shoes, belt, jewelry and jackets on while going through.
“Mississippi State University and the University of Alabama are taking the lead in implementing safety and security measures including metal detectors that will be required of all Southeastern Conference universities by 2020,” said MSU President Mark E. Keenum. “Here at MSU, we have made systematic strides in recent years to maximize security while also maximizing the very best possible fan experience for our Bulldog family and our guests. I encourage our loyal fans to embrace this necessary initiative.”
Davis Wade Stadium isn’t the first venue on campus to get the security upgrade as metal detectors have been in place at Humphrey Coliseum during the last two basketball seasons.
“The safety and well-being of our fans and student-athletes has and will always be of the utmost importance to us,” said MSU Director of Athletics John Cohen. “With walk-through metal detectors becoming a conference-wide initiative in football by 2020, we want to ensure a smooth transition for all fans who visit Davis Wade Stadium. We encourage our fans to become familiar with the process before they arrive on campus on Sept. 1.”
Fans are encouraged to arrive at Davis Wade Stadium gates approximately 30 minutes earlier than normal to ensure a smooth entry. A complete FAQ on the walk-through metal detectors process at Davis Wade Stadium is available at HailState.com/metaldetector.
Fans interested in becoming familiar with the new entry process into Davis Wade Stadium in person are encouraged to attend MSU Fan Day on Saturday, Aug. 25. Though Fan Day is being held at the Palmeiro Center, walk-through metal detectors will be set up at Davis Wade Stadium for any fans interested in getting a preview of the gameday setup.
