Metal Detectors
Furthering its commitment to a first class and secure environment at home athletic events, William & Mary will implement the use of walk-through metal detectors at the entrances to athletic venues (both ticketed and non-ticketed events) beginning in the fall of 2025. This enhanced security method mirrors standard practice at most major professional and intercollegiate athletic events throughout the country and compliments the Clear Bag Policy already in place. Through the use of these contactless walk-through metal detectors, attendees will have a more efficient experience upon arrival compared to previous seasons. The detectors will be placed at the entry to the venue, and all fans will receive guidance from trained security staff throughout the process.
Fans will proceed through metal detectors prior to having their tickets scanned for venue entry. Entrants will not need to remove items such as belts, cell phones, coins, jackets, jewelry, watches, wallets, shoes or other small objects.
If additional screening is necessary, security staff will ask the individual to proceed to a secondary screening area, where they will be asked to divest themselves of certain items and pass through again until clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to empty my clear bag or pockets to walk through the metal detector?
A: Fans will not have to empty their clear bags or pockets, and will not have to place cell phones, keys, money or other belongings to the side because the state-of-art metal detectors are designed to be completely pass through. Only if a problem is detected, and the alarm sounds, will fans have to proceed to an additional area and be checked separately with a security wand.
Q: What pace do I need to walk through the metal detector?
A: Please proceed through the detectors at a normal pace.
Q: What are my options if a prohibited item is detected?
A: Those who have prohibited items will have to dispose of them or return those items to their cars before entering the facility. Weapons will be handled in accordance with the
applicable criminal and administrative code.
Clear Bag Policy
William & Mary Athletics, in conjunction with the William & Mary Police Department, implemented a clear bag policy that regulates the size and type of bag that may be carried into William & Mary Athletics facilities.
Fans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new policies before arriving at venues to minimize time at security checkpoints.
This policy is consistent with many of the venues in the CAA and other non-conference venues W&M will compete at throughout the season.
Bags that are approved include:
- Clear tote bags made of plastic, vinyl or PVC that do not exceed 24″ x 12″ x 24″
- One-gallon clear plastic zip-style bags
- Small purses or clutch bags that do not exceed 6.5″ x 4.5"
- Medical or diaper bags – diaper bags must be accompanied by a child
Bags are that not permitted include:
- Backpacks
- Printed or tinted plastic bags
- Cinch or drawstring bags
- Fanny packs
- Camera or binocular cases
- Large purses or bags
A full list of items prohibited in any athletics venue can be found
here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does this expedite my entry into the venue?
A. This policy enables us to move guests through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the venue.
Q. How does this new policy improve public safety?
A. The clear bag is easily searched by security staff. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
Q. Do I have to put everything I am carrying in a permissible bag?
A. No. This policy is designed to limit only the of type bags carried into the venue, not the permissible items that are brought into the game. A full list of items prohibited in athletics venues can be found
here.
Q. What happens if I arrive and do not have a permissible bag?
A. Guests will not be allowed into the venue with a non-approved bag. Fans will be asked to return the items to their vehicle.
Q. How many permissible bags may I bring to the venue?
A. One bag is permitted per guest as long as it is an approved bag such as: one-gallon zip-style bag or the 24" x 12" x 24" clear bag, plus a small clutch that does not exceed 6.5" x 4.5"
Q. What about diaper/medical supply bags?
A. Medical bags, diapers and other baby supplies are permitted, but will be subject to screening and temporarily tagged, showing that the bag has been screened and approved. Each bag will be searched upon entry. A diaper bag must be accompanied by a child.
Q. Are seat cushions/backs allowed to be carried into the venue?
A. Approved seat cushions & seat backs may be carried into the venue provided they are no wider than 16" and have no arms or pockets.
Q. Does this policy apply to me if I am working the game?
A. Credentialed individuals will continue to enter the stadium through designated gates. These individuals and any items that they bring into the stadium will continue to be screened based on procedures that are already in place.
