GAME DAY IN PIRATE NATION
ECU Police want your experience to be fun and safe
It’s time for Pirate Nation to prepare for another football season at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The first game is Saturday, Sept. 1 against North Carolina A&T at 6 p.m.
This year, with the stadium’s southside renovation taking shape, fans are curious as to what the construction may mean for their game day experience this year. According to Lt. Chris Sutton with the ECU Police Department, very little has changed.
Parking
“We do have some adjustments to our parking. Our primary parking that we have north of the football stadium will be open and people can access that from Charles Boulevard and Ficklen Drive,” said Sutton. “On the south side, where the construction is underway, we have one parking lot that is offline – what was the purple lot – but the white lot will be open and can be accessed from Field Side Drive and Charles Boulevard.”
Additional parking information and maps can be found at https://ecupirates.com/sports/2016/7/8/football-game-day-parking-information.aspx
ECU fans cheer during the homecoming game against BYU on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017. (Photo by Rhett Butler)
Stadium entry
There will be the same number of gates around the stadium; some on the south side may be repositioned but will be open and accessible.
“There is a construction site between gates one and two but there will be a pathway for fans to be able to access. On the north side gates five through 10 will be open,” said Sutton.
He also encouraged students to arrive around 5 p.m. for the 6 p.m. kickoff time.
“That way they get to enjoy the pregame show and pick out the seats they want,” said Sutton.
Students need to make sure they have their digital ticket open and ready to be scanned at the gate and bring their 1 Card and a photo ID.
Sutton also encouraged those attending tailgates and the game to drink plenty of water.
“It will be very hot through the week so it’s important that fans are hydrating to prepare for Saturday,” said Sutton.
Prohibited items
The list of prohibited items is also the same this year. Bags can be no larger than 10 by 10 by 10 inches. Backpacks, umbrellas and outside food and drink are not allowed. A list of prohibited items is posted at each gate entrance.
Officers will be in and around the stadium and above the crowd monitoring what’s going on throughout the day and during the game.
“We want our fans to come out and enjoy the game day experience and feel safe while they are here,” said Sutton.