West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University Athletics has outlined several gameday strategies and health and safety protocols for fans attending football games at Hanson Field. The next game against McKendree will kick off at 6:02 p.m. CST on Saturday, September 28, and will be broadcasted on ESPN+.

The timeline for the day includes:

- 1:00 pm - Tailgate lots open

- 1:30 pm - Family BBQ Day Cookoff begins

- 4:30 pm - Ticket Office opens

- 4:30 pm - All gates open

- 5:00 pm - Alcohol sales begin inside Hanson Field

- 5:30 pm - Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra opens

- 5:38 pm - WIU Football Senior Day Recognition Begins

- 5:50 pm - Team warm-ups

- 6:02 pm - Kickoff vs. McKendree

Parking lots will open at 1:00 p.m., with the Leatherneck Club Preferred parking area available for club members who have purchased season tickets. Members contributing at the Captain level and above have reserved parking locations, while those at the Varsity level can access preferred areas on a first-come, first-served basis. Other parking is free and available to the public.

Handicap accessible parking is located on the west side of Q Lot nearest to Western Hall.

The Family BBQ Day event, featuring live music, family activities, a bags tournament, and a BBQ competition, starts at 1:30 p.m. Food will be served while supplies last. Tickets, t-shirts, and packages can be pre-ordered through September 26th at noon or purchased at the event.

Students can enjoy a tailgate space located at the east end of Q Lot and gain free admission to the game with their WIU Student ID.

Leatherneck Club members at the All-American level can access the Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra, offering field-level viewing, free soft drinks and water, and alcohol for purchase.

Rocky's Kids Club presented by Clock Tower Bank will operate from a tent in the southwest corner of Hanson Field. The Kids Club captain will be honored during the third quarter of the game. Packets are available for pick up in Western Hall starting today.

For questions before, during, or after home football games, fans are encouraged to contact WIU Athletics' main office via phone at 309-298-1190.