UTRGV Athletics has implemented a clear bag policy for home athletic events to keep attendees safe and to ensure weapons as well as other items, such as purses and noisemakers, are not brought.
The most recent event that prompted the creation of the policy was the May 24 shooting at Robb Elementary School in the southwest Texas city of Uvalde, according to Vice President and Athletics Director Chasse Conque.
“It’s all about the safety of our fans and our student athletes and those that come in our venue, especially … in light of what’s happened here in the state of Texas, and some of the unfortunate situations, that we’ve all seen happen,” Conque said.
A gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at the Uvalde elementary school.
The UTRGV policy was researched and modeled after other venues that have had success with their policies, according to Sara Hernandez, Athletics director for Marketing and Strategic Initiatives.
“So, the first thing we did was go out and do some research to see what other, not only universities, but also other venues, like H-E-B Park, for example, and the Bert Ogden Arena,” Hernandez said. “So we did a lot of research, to see, kind of, what the standard was and what was applicable. We know it’s something that our fans may not be used to.
“So we wanted it to be something that they might have seen somewhere else. So, I think the main thing was looking at research to see what things apply to us and what things didn’t. And we kind of went from there and came up with what we thought was best for our venues.”
To make sure everyone is aware of the policy before attending sporting events, the Athletics Department has been advertising on social media.
“We’ve been hammering it down on Instagram as well, quite a bit,” Hernandez said. “And also, once people get to the Fieldhouse, there will be some signage, in case you missed everything.”
Psychology freshman Maria Espinoza attends volleyball games regularly and her reaction to the policy has been positive.
“I think, with what has been happening in the country, a policy like this is necessary to keep everyone at an event safe,” Espinoza said. “Most of the items that are listed shouldn’t be brought anyway. Most people won’t be affected by the policy and those that are can buy clear bags. I do think not allowing purses is a bit much but if it means we will be safer, I’m all for it.”
Clear bags may not exceed 12-by-6-by-12 inches. Exceptions will be made for diaper or medically necessary bags.
For more information on the policy, visit goutrgv.com/news/2022/8/17/general-utrgv-athletics-announces-clear-bag-policy.aspx
