Have fun tailgating, but not too much fun

<p>Students partake in a game of beer pong at tailgate activities. DN FILE PHOTO ALAINA JAYE HALSEY.</p>

Students partake in a game of beer pong at tailgate activities. DN FILE PHOTO ALAINA JAYE HALSEY.

Ball State Athletics 2015 Tailgating Guidelines

  • Tailgating will begin three hours before kickoff
  • One vehicle is allowed per parking space
  • For those who are 21 or older, alcohol consumption is permitted in designated locations. All individuals must carry and present identification to appropriate law enforcement or university personnel when requested to do so.
  • All beverages should be in aluminum cans, plastic bottles or paper or plastic cups. Glass containers are not permitted.
  • No kegs of any sort or hard liquor are permitted. Drinking games and drinking game apparatuses are also not allowed.
  • No tents larger than 10 feet by 10 feet are allowed
  • Couches and other indoor furniture are prohibited.
  • RV's, buses, oversized vehicles (not pick-up trucks) and large grills which are pulled behind a vehicle will be assigned to a parking spot on the baseball parking lot. These vehicles should enter the baseball parking lot by driving from McGalliard Road onto Tillotson Avenue and turning right into the lot.
  • Portable restroom facilities are available in the tail gate area.
  • The tailgating area will be cleared 15 minutes prior to the start of the game. Tailgating activities must cease at that time.

Homecoming is the time of year when thousands of alumni, students and parents all come together to drink and have fun, but tailgaters need to know the rules before they celebrate. 

Although tailgating is open to everyone, University Police Department Chief Jim Duckham said students should act responsibly while they enjoy sporting festivities.

“Tailgating usually isn’t an issue here, but we’re keeping our eyes out for people who are disrupting the good spirit or are causing problems of any sort,“ Duckham said. “We want to ensure that it’s a friendly atmosphere for students, families and alumni. If alcohol becomes problematic, it will be addressed.”

Duckham emphasized alcohol consumption is only for those who are 21 and older.

Brandon Thomas, Excise Police public information officer, wouldn't confirm excise's presence at tailgate this weekend, but said officers have usually attended Homecoming tailgates in the past. He  said alcohol consumption is allowed at tailgating, but those who drink should use caution.

“Any behaviors that pose a risk to themselves or others is not acceptable," Thomas said. "In years past we’ve witnessed fighting and urinating in public, and that will not be tolerated.”

Michael Clark, associate athletics director for strategic communications, said they want everyone to come out and have a good, safe time while they support the school and team.

“Tailgating is a fun tradition, and we’re looking forward to having a lot of students check out the fun there is before the game, too," he said. 

13 tips for a great tailgate. 

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