Subsequent to West Virginia recently implementing a Campus Carry Law, Marshall University in Huntington has announced "Safe to Stay with the Herd," a policy that brings adjustments for fans entering and leaving Joan C. Edwards Stadium and other athletic venues this fall.
As reported by MetroNews, Marshall’s new policy, which took effect July 1st, considers athletic venues gun-free zones, one of 12 exceptions to the new law that allows licensed individuals to carry concealed weapons on state university and college campuses.
Marshall has issued a policy statement on the new Campus Carry law that says the university “is dedicated to ensuring a secure atmosphere for all students, staff, university associates and guests while also honoring the rights of individuals who are licensed to carry a handgun in accordance with West Virginia law. Marshall University is bound to adhere strictly to West Virginia statutes and cannot implement policies or measures that contravene state law.”
According to Marshall University Police chief Jim Terry, the two key policy changes are weapon screening and a no re-entry policy without being screened at athletic events.
“Allowing patrons to exit and re-enter increases the risk of unauthorized access of prohibited items into the venue,” Terry said, as reported by MetroNews. “Managing a large crowd is already challenging for event organizers and staff, so we want to take these measures for the wellbeing and safety of everyone attending Marshall Athletics events.”
The policies will be in place at any venue where at least 1,000 fans are expected to attend and will include Edwards Stadium, the Cam Henderson Center, Jack Cook Field and Hoops Family Soccer Field.
To accommodate the expanded security screening and overall fan convenience, expanded concourses at Edwards Stadium will allow expanded concessions and retail opportunities, as well as games and activities for fans.
Edwards Stadium gates will open two hours before events to allow fans plenty of time to enter and enjoy the new fan experience zones within the stadium.
All other athletic venues will still open one hour prior to start time.
Herd director of athletics Christian Spears said Marshall is following NCAA and Sun Belt Conference standards with the new venue policies, including not allowing fans who leave the stadium during a game to re-enter prior to re-screening and showing a scanned game ticket.
“We have new dynamics that require us to manage entry and re-entry similarly to other college and professional teams,” Spears said, as reported by MetroNews. “This will be a big change for us all, but with the improvements that came with change, I’m confident we can create an awesome environment for all of our teams. We appreciate everyone’s support in advance.”
