Nov. 11, 2005

The Southeastern Conference and the University of South Carolina department of athletics are encouraging all fans to enjoy the remainder of the football games this season while maintaining good sportsmanship.

Access to the competition areas will be limited to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials, support personnel and properly credentialed individuals. For the safety of participants and spectators alike, spectators will not be permitted to enter the competition area.

Institutional penalties against individuals who improperly enter the competition area will include, but not be limited to, expulsion from the facility, arrest for trespassing and loss of future ticket privileges. Students who violate the policy will be subject to institutional disciplinary measures.

“This policy is designed to create a safe environment for everyone who participates and attends our atheltic contests,” said SEC Commissioner Mike Slive. “I understand the exuberance of the moment, but the security and protection of our student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans are our primary concern.”

The policy, approved by all 12 SEC institutions in 2004, imposes financial penalties for violations in the sports of football and men’s and women’s basketball, at the discretion of the commissioner. Institutional financial penalties range from $5,000 for a first offense to fines of up to $25,000 for a second offense and up to $50,000 for a third and subsequent offense.