University of Minnesota enhances security for Wisconsin, Illinois games

To ensure the comfort and safety for fans in light of recent worldwide events, the Department of Athletics and Department of Public Safety are announcing enhanced security measures to be in place for Minnesota’s upcoming football games against Illinois on Nov. 21 and Wisconsin on Nov. 28 at TCF Bank Stadium.

While there are currently no known threats against collegiate stadiums, University of Minnesota leaders have opted to increase security measures this weekend for the safety of TCF Bank Stadium attendees.

In addition to increased presence of public safety personnel on campus, the University will be allowing only clear bags in the stadium, similar to the current Minnesota Vikings policy. Stadium personnel will provide clear bags in which to transfer any needed items, and a bag check will also be provided in the Williams Arena lobby located on the South side of the building off University Avenue. Bag check will open at 9:30 am and close one hour following the game’s conclusion. Fans unable to retrieve their bags in the time frame will be able to pick them up at Williams Arena lost and found on Monday.

Permissible Bags include:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12."

• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).

• Small clutch bags (no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”), approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bags.

• An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at any gates.

Outside of the new bag policy, all other permissible and non-permissible items remain unchanged. Non-battery/non-electric blankets will still be permitted.

Prohibited items include: Purses, Backpacks, Clear Backpacks, Tinted Plastic Totes, Printed Pattern Plastic Bags, Over-sized Tote Bags, Mesh Bags, Diaper Bags, Computer Bags, Camera Cases, Binocular Cases, Fanny Packs, and non-approved Seat Cushions.

The University encourages fans to arrive early to provide adequate time to enter the stadium.

“We greatly value our fans, teams, stadium personnel and the visiting team and fans, and for their safety we are enhancing security operations,” said Tom McGinnis, Minnesota senior associate athletics director with event management oversight. “We have a comprehensive security plan in place and we work closely with federal, state and local law enforcement to provide a safe experience for our fans.

“While we know this may be an inconvenience for some, we ask for everyone’s patience so that we can get fans into the stadium in time for the 11 a.m. kickoff. The safety and security of our community is our number one priority, and everyone’s help is needed and appreciated.”

Anyone who notices suspicious activity or activities out of the ordinary at any event is asked to immediately call 911.