Alamodome details COVID-19 plan for UTSA football

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Julia Maenius

The UTSA Department of Intercollegiate Athletics released guidelines for the upcoming football season for the safety of fans and teams in the Alamodome.

Julia Maenius, Assistant Sports Editor

Roadrunner football will return to the Alamodome to face the Stephen F. Austin State University Lumberjacks on Sept. 19. As the team and fans suit up for the 2020 season, Conference USA (C-USA) and the UTSA Department of Intercollegiate Athletics have released safety guidelines for players and others returning to the stadium.

C-USA has created a comprehensive COVID-19 plan to ensure the safety of the athletes and coaches as the start of the season approaches. Football student athletes will be tested for COVID-19 three times per week, and game day and support staff must meet NCAA and C-USA guidelines for testing. The conference has been working with a team of health professionals to create an in-depth safety plan and provide input.

Though the ‘Runners will return to their home field this season, games will look different than in past years. The stadium will only hold 17% capacity, permitting close to 11,000 fans to enter the stadium. The UTSA clear bag policy will remain in effect this season.

Doors will open 90 minutes prior to kick off with entrances designated by ticket group. Those entering the Alamodome will be subject to temperature checks. Temperatures reaching over 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit will be taken to a secondary location and retested.  

Alamodome staff and vendors must undergo COVID-19 training and will implement cleaning products and protocols that align with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules and regulations. Sanitation stations will be set up throughout the stadium. A food ordering app and cashless pay will be put in place to ensure the safety of fans and vendors.

Elevator access will only be granted to disabled guests and those who need vertical transportation. The maximum capacity for elevators is four people, including the elevator operator.

Masks will be required for all in the stadium with the exception of young children and those who cannot adjust or remove face masks by themselves. Masks can be taken off only while eating and drinking.

The Spirit of San Antonio will not be able to perform in on-field performances in the Alamodome this season. There will also be no tailgating outside the stadium.

Season ticket holders will receive new seating assignments for the 2020 season only. The seat assignments will be assigned in adherence with social distancing protocols. Students will still receive free tickets for the season. Information will be sent to students’ preferred emails with more information. Digital tickets are encouraged for all who attend games.