The UCF community enjoyed its first year of on-campus football games last season, and based on that success only a few game day policies have changed heading into the 2008 campaign. The most notable change is that the waiver of city and county open container ordinances for alcohol will end at kickoff for the home games this fall.
The new policy enjoys broad support among student government, alumni and more. Fans will be familiar with most of the other tailgating regulations this year, as they are generally the same as in 2007. UCF’s goals with tailgating are to ensure that fans have a safe and memorable game day experience and that they celebrate responsibly.
On game days, the waiver of open container laws will begin at 7 a.m., the same time that parking lots open on campus. The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited by anyone younger than 21. Anyone consuming alcohol must be prepared to show proof that he or she is 21 or older.
Glass containers, kegs and beer funnels are not allowed on campus. No alcohol is authorized inside Bright House Networks Stadium, except in stadium suites and the club lounge. Tailgating will be allowed in any ground-level parking lot but will not be permitted in any parking garage.
Tailgating activities without vehicles are allowed on most other areas on campus, and primary locations include Memory Mall, Lake Claire and the Colbourn Lawn. Fans are reminded that they cannot park along campus roadways, in residential housing parking lots or garages, or on any open grassy areas throughout campus.
The rapid, excessive or irresponsible consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited, as are drinking contests or games or any other activities that involve the rapid and/or excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Fans are expected to clean up their trash and place recyclable materials in recycling containers that will be located throughout the campus.
Propane cooking grills are highly recommended for tailgating. If using charcoal, ensure that hot coals are carefully disposed in designated barrels. All open-flame cooking appliances must be a minimum of 10 feet away from any building, structure or overhang.
For a full list of tailgating regulations, go to www.UCFGameday.com and click on the ‘Tailgating’ link under the Game Day tab. The defending Conference USAchampion Knights will play six home games this fall, beginning with South Carolina State on Aug. 30 and South Florida on Sept. 6. The Family Weekend game will be Oct. 4 against SMU, and the Homecoming game will be Nov. 8 against Southern Mississippi.
The Knights’ remaining home games include a Sunday evening game on Nov. 2 against East Carolina and the regularseason finale against Alabama-Birmingham on Nov. 29. For information on Bright House Networks Stadium, tickets, parking and more, go to www.UCFGameday.com.
