West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University Athletics has announced plans for game day operations and safety protocols for the upcoming football game against Charleston Southern at Hanson Field. The game is scheduled to begin at 3:02 p.m. CST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

The day's events start at 10:00 a.m. when tailgate lots open, followed by a homecoming parade at 10:30 a.m. The ticket office and stadium gates will open at 1:30 p.m. Alcohol sales and the Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra will both open at 2:30 p.m. Team warmups are set for 2:50 p.m., leading up to kickoff.

Parking for the event opens at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 18. Leatherneck Club Preferred parking, sponsored by Toyota, is reserved for club members with season tickets. Those at the Captain level and above have assigned parking spots, while Varsity level members have access on a first-come, first-served basis. All other parking is available to the public for free.

Handicapped accessible parking will be available on the west side of Q Lot, closest to Western Hall.

A clear bag policy will be enforced. Permitted bags include transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC totes no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags, and small clutch bags no larger than 5.5" x 6.5". Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after inspection at the main gate.

Students from Western Illinois University can attend the game for free with their student ID. The student tailgate area is located at the east end of Q Lot.

Leatherneck Club members at the All-American level have access to the Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra, located in the north endzone. The area provides a field-level view, complimentary soft drinks and water, and alcohol for purchase.

Rocky's Kids Club, sponsored by Clock Tower Bank, will be available in the southwest corner of Hanson Field. The Kids Club captain will be recognized on the field during the third quarter. Membership packets can be picked up in Western Hall, and admission to the club costs $25.

Fans with questions about game day can contact the WIU Athletics main office at 309-298-1190.