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UK Orthopaedics State Football Finals – Gameday Information

December 14, 2020 Football Blog Updates

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ALL OF THE INFORMATION BELOW IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY POINT.

Some key reminders as we prepare for this week’s state finals…

HEALTHY AT SPORTS FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP PLAN

The KHSAA is utilizing the identical plan that was approved and utilized for the home games of the University of Kentucky, including requirements regarding social distancing, ticketing, field operations and allowances, and all other mitigation measures utilized for the 2020 college contests.

TICKETING

No tailgating

  • In addition to masks, gaiters of two-ply material are now permissible
  • Please remember to wear a mask or gaiter at all times inside the stadium, except when actively eating or drinking
  • Fans are welcome to bring stadium seats or seat cushions to the game; the seats or cushions should be no wider than 18 inches

Thanks for your cooperation.

GENERAL SUMMARY

After consulting with health experts from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the University of Kentucky and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UK Athletics implemented a number of new initiatives and regulations regarding football games at Kroger Field this fall. The health and well-being of the student-athletes, fans and staff are our top priorities and will continue to guide our decisions.

In August, the Southeastern Conference announced several conference-wide fan health and safety guidelines for all member institutions regarding football this fall. Measures specifically related to Kentucky games are listed below and will be followed by the KHSAA. These regulations are in line with, and in addition to, the SEC’s guidelines.

Exposure to COVID-19 is an inherent risk in any public location where people are present. We cannot guarantee you will not be exposed during your visit to Kroger Field.


Prior to arriving on the UK campus, we encourage all fans to check their temperature and conduct a health self-screening. Fans who have a temperature at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit are asked to stay home and isolate. Fans who have existing health complications and are therefore vulnerable are asked to proceed with the utmost caution and to consider staying home and isolating.

Face coverings, over the nose and mouth, are required for all fans as they enter, exit, and move around Kroger Field, as well as any time fans are unable to maintain the recommended physical distance from other fans not in their immediate party/household. Children two (2) and under are not required to wear a mask. If you are for any other reason unable to wear a mask, you are asked not to attend.

Physical distancing measures have been put in place at Kroger Field, including physically distance lines for concessions, bathrooms and other spots where lines generally form.

A significant number of sanitizing opportunities, including hand sanitizers and hand-washing stations, have been added inside Kroger Field.

UK Athletics staff will take additional measures to clean and sanitize Kroger Field, including high touch-point areas, which will be cleaned more frequently.

This year, the KHSAA transitioned to digital tickets for all events. Fans are to purchase their tickets in advance of arriving at Kroger Field.

The KHSAA, in partnership with University of Kentucky Athletics, seeks to provide the safest environment possible for all spectators, staff and participants. A risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place, including sporting events at the University of Kentucky. Fans with pre-existing health conditions or who are otherwise at risk should consider not attending on-campus sporting events during this unprecedented time.

Those who are not permitted to attend football games at Kroger Field:

  • Tested positive or defined as a close contact and not yet cleared by the health department to exit quarantine
  • Were tested and have not received the results
  • Informed that they may have been exposed
  • Experiencing any symptoms

UKAD EMS crew will be on site to answer questions regarding symptoms.

Failure to comply with the requirements outlined above may result in individuals being removed from and denied future access to Kroger Field and other University of Kentucky athletic venues.

REQUIREMENTS FOR FANS

  • Masks are required at all times other than while eating or drinking, while seated.
  • Keep six feet of social distance where possible at all times.
  • Clear bags are required
  • Masks should:
    • Always be required to be worn, including while seated in the stands, riding on shuttles, traveling through the venue, going to the restrooms, purchasing food & beverages and inside the premium spaces.
    • Cover mouth and nose
    • Fit snugly but comfortably
    • Be secured with ties or ear loops
    • Gaiters made of two-ply material are now allowed
    • Be made of multiple layers of fabric or medical grade disposable
    • Allow for breathing without restriction
    • Masks should not be worn by anyone under 2-years old
    • Fabrics masks must be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape
    • If you are for any other reason unable to wear a mask, you are asked not to attend.
    • Face shields do not replace wearing a mask
    • If spectators are unable to wear masks, they are encouraged not to attend games in person for the sake of their health and the health of others
    • Mask enforcement will be treated similarly to other policies enforced at Kroger Field, including no smoking/tobacco products, alcohol beverage use, artificial noisemakers, etc.
      • Ushers or Event Staff will approach those not in compliance with policies and request they comply
      • If they are faced with push back, they will involve University of Kentucky Police or the police agency assigned to that section/area
      • If needed, those not in compliance will be removed from the premise without refund

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FANS

  • No bags
    • Medical bags only permitted through special admissions entry
  • Arrive early – Pay attention to your suggested gate
  • Limit time spent on the concourse – no loitering or congregating
  • Utilize hand sanitizer and wash hands as frequently as possible
  • Plan to use credit cards, no cash
  • A game ticket is required to be on the premise of Kroger Field on football game days.
  • If you feel bad, stay home.

DIRECTIONS TO KROGER FIELD

From Bluegrass Parkway

When the parkway ends you exit right onto route 60 (Versailles Road), go approximately 10 miles and turn right on Mason Headley Road beside Cardinal Hill Hospital. Continue straight through the lights, you will pass a golf course and the Campbell House Inn. At the light continue straight through the intersection onto Waller Ave. along side St. Joseph’s Hospital. Pass over the railroad tracks and continue straight through the light to the intersection of Nicholasville Rd. and Cooper Drive. Kroger Field is located on the right hand side.

Going South I-75/I-64 E or W Towards Lexington

Take exit 113 (marked Paris/Lexington), turn right off the exit ramp onto N. Broadway (U.S. 68), and continue through downtown for approximately 6 miles. After Logan’s Steakhouse take a left at the intersection onto Waller Ave. along side St. Joseph Hospital. Pass over the railroad tracks and continue straight through the light at the intersection of Nicholasville Rd. to Cooper Drive. Kroger Field is located on the right hand side.

Going North on I-75 From Knoxville

Take exit 104 (marked Athens/ Lexington), turn left off of the ramp onto Athens Boonesboro Road. Take a left at the intersection of Richmond Rd. & Man OGo’ War. Follow Man O’ War to the intersection at Alumni Dr. and take a right. Follow Alumni Drive through the Tates Creek intersection. Kroger Field is located on the right hand side.


A digital ticket to the event will serve as a parking pass to all of the general parking areas around the stadium.
UK Athletics’ goal, in partnership with the KHSAA, is to provide a safe parking environment for all ticket holders.

  • Parking lots will open one (1) hour before kickoff.
  • Spectators will be strongly required to physical distance, wear a proper mask, hand sanitizer, etc.
  • No tailgating, no tents, generators, trailers, grills or cooking of any kind are permitted
  • Hand Sanitizer stations will be placed throughout lots. UK Athletics will distribute small bottles of sanitizer at lot entrances
  • Informational signs will be placed that will encourage policies
  • Ticket holders will be encouraged to arrive when lots open and enter the stadium to avoid crowds
  • There will be no RV parking in Kroger Field lots in 2020

UK Athletics’ goal, in partnership with the KHSAA, is to provide safe parking environment for all ticket holders.

  • No tailgating, no tents, generators, trailers, grills or cooking of any kind are permitted
  • Parking lots will open one (1) hour prior to kick off for the first game each day
  • Spectators will be strongly required to physical distance, wear a proper mask, hand sanitize etc.
  • Hand Sanitizer stations will be placed throughout lots. UK Athletics will distribute small bottles of sanitizer at lot entrances
  • Informational signs will be placed that will encourage policies
  • Ticket holders will be encouraged to arrive when lots open and enter the stadium to avoid crowds
  • There will be no RV parking in Kroger Field lots in 2020

Due to the health and safety protocols implemented relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, UK Athletics has made several changes to the football game day experience. This includes adjustments and/or elimination of some popular game day traditions.

UK Athletics is providing these guidelines:

  • Fans are asked to perform self-screening evaluations and to stay home if they feel sick or may have been exposed to COVID-19
  • Parking lots will open one (1) hour before kickoff
  • Only those with parking permits may park on campus on game days
  • No tailgate parties, no tents, generators, trailers, grills or cooking of any kind are permitted
  • Informational signs will be placed that will encourage policies outlined above
  • Ticket holders will be encouraged to arrive when lots open and enter the stadium to avoid crowds
  • All of these regulations are subject to change, especially if guidelines are not followed.
  • UK Athletics thanks fans in advance for complying with these necessary gameday policies and helping to promote the health and safety of the UK campus
  • Security at all Kroger Field gates will remain the same as in the past with the security check taking place outside the stadium gates prior to tickets being scanned. Spectators are encouraged not to bring bags to limit the amount of touch points upon entry.

ELEVATORS

  • Each elevator will have an operator in proper PPE. Operator will select buttons and manage floors.
  • Elevators will operate intentionally, separating different groups traveling to different areas. i.e. – those traveling to Central Bank Press Box will have designated elevator.
  • Premium Spaces (Woodford Reserve Club): Accessible from the Commonwealth Tower Lobby between Gates 10 & 11
  • Media: Accessible from the Commonwealth Tower Lobby between Gates 10 & 11
  • Elevators will be limited to 3 guests in addition to the operator.
  • Hand sanitizer stations will be available on the elevator and at each stop.

CONCESSIONS

  • Grab and go options will be available at each location
  • Fountain drinks will be unavailable, all drinks will be sold bottled
  • Condiments will be pre-packaged in portion control packs and distributed from concession stands. Counters where condiments previously sat will be unavailable.
  • High touch points inside concession stands will be sanitized regularly

SPECTATOR LIMITED MOBILITY CART

Golf carts should be deployed around the immediate exterior of Kroger Field to transport those who are limited in mobility to their preferred gate. One passenger will be permitted to ride on the back of the cart at a time. The golf cart driver will be responsible for sanitation of carts between passengers.


  • UK Athletics will limit the overall capacity of Kroger Field to no more than 20%
  • Spectator seating will be reconfigured throughout the general seating bowl and in the Woodford Reserve and Central Bank Club to provide physical distancing between seat blocks
  • Seating pods will be arranged so that ticket holders have no one sitting directly in front or behind them. We will also allow 3-4 empty seats between pods on the same row to create physical separation between groups
  • Only the lower level seating bowl will be utilized for the finals.

Kroger Field Seating Chart


  • The KHSAA has transitioned to digital ticketing for all state events this season. Digital ticketing enhances convenience and safety for all fans, while providing flexibility and safeguarding against counterfeit tickets. Digital tickets will provide quick and contactless entry to Kroger Field, which is the most sanitary and efficient way to enter the stadium.
  • Tickets will be issued via digital delivery. Ticket holders will access their tickets on their phones and can transfer them electronically to other members in their party when necessary.
  • Mobile help locations will be set up on the exterior of the stadium at the Guest Services booths to assist spectators with Wi-Fi connectivity and accessing their tickets. Spectators will be strongly encouraged to save their digital tickets in their smart phone’s digital wallet prior to arriving at Kroger Field.

BOX OFFICE OPERATIONS

  • At the main box office, every other ticket window will be closed. Stanchions will be arranged for one-way traffic routes at the ticket windows.
  • Advance ticket sales will be promoted. With limited capacity, The KHSAA, in partnership with UK Athletics, does not anticipate selling walk-up tickets on day of event.
  • If sales are necessary, credit cards are the only allowed method of payment.
  • The main box office between gates 9 & 10 will be open for ticket resolution.

  • Gates will open one (1) hour prior to kickoff for each game.
  • Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early.
  • Fans should enter at the assigned gate that will be listed on their mobile ticket. When departing the stadium, fans should exit via the same gate through which they entered.
  • Physical distancing reminders will be visible in gate lines and points of entry to allow the proper distance between fans.
  • All bags must adhere to the UK Athletics Clear Bag policy. All bags and items will be searched. To avoid additional touchpoints, fans are strongly encouraged to not bring unnecessary bags to Kroger Field.
  • Fans with necessary medical bags will only be permitted through special admissions entry at Gate 9.5.
  • Security at all Kroger Field gates will remain the same as in the past with the security check taking place outside the stadium gates prior to tickets being scanned. Spectators are encouraged not to bring bags to limit the number of touchpoints upon entry.
  • You will be asked these questions at or near the entrance:
    • Do you have a new cough, runny nose, congestion, headache or sore throat unrelated to seasonal allergies?
    • Do you have shortness of breath?
    • Do you have new muscle aches/pain/fatigue unrelated to training/workouts?
    • Have you had nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours?
    • Have you experienced a new loss of taste or smell?
    • Have you been in close contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19?
    • Have you had any fever greater than 100.0 or chills in the last 24 hours?

STADIUM GATES

  • Gates 2, 4 and 9 will be open on game day.
  • The Commonwealth Tower Lobby will also be open for media and Woodford Reserve Club ticketed patrons.

  • Physical distancing measures have been put in place at Kroger Field, including physically distanced lines for concessions, bathrooms and other spots where lines generally form.
  • Please keep a distance of at least six feet between yourself and other fans who are not in your party. Signs around Kroger Field will serve as a reminder.
  • Please sit only in your assigned seat. This will help to maintain the required physical distancing between fans in the stadium bowl.
  • Please be aware of physical distancing protocols when on the concourse area and when entering or exiting the stadium.

There will be a number of cleaning and disinfecting opportunities in place throughout Kroger Field.

  • Barriers will be placed between staff and spectators when physical distancing is not possible
  • Employees will wipe down workstations regularly
  • Doors will be propped open when possible
  • Signage around the stadium will remind fans of regulations
  • Hand sanitizer stations will be readily available throughout Kroger Field

KROGER FIELD A-Z

ANIMALS
Animals or pets of any kind are prohibited with the exception of service animals. Service animals are welcome inside Kroger Field but must remain on a leash or harness at all times. If guests intend to bring a service animal to the stadium, please notify your ticket representative at the time of purchase so that an aisle seat may be reserved.

ATMS
Located next to the public elevator doors on the lower concourse inside Gates 1 & 9. Credit cards are accepted at most concession stand and merchandise locations.

AUTOMOBILE ASSISTANCE
Guests with minor automobile problems (jump start, flat tire, etc.) can seek game day assistance from AAA at (859) 255-7600.

BAG POLICY
Please see the new Kroger Field Clear Bag Policy

CELL PHONES & COMPUTERS
Cell phones, tablets and laptops are allowed in the stadium as long as their use does not interfere with other guest’s enjoyment of the event. No devices can be plugged into the building’s electrical outlets.

CODE OF CONDUCT
In order to keep the state finals as enjoyable as possible for all, the KHSAA, in partnership with the University of Kentucky, asks that all patrons respect those around them. The University of Kentucky reserves the right to remove any individual from Kroger Field who displays conduct that may endanger or disrupt players, coaches, officials or other patrons. No refunds are given in such cases.

DIAPER CHANGING STATIONS
Diaper changing stations are available in all public and family restrooms in Kroger Field.

DRONES
The use of drones and any other unmanned or remote control aircraft is expressly prohibited both inside and in the vicinity of the Kroger Field complex on game day. Any such use is defined as a Violation of National Defense Airspace by the Federal Aviation Administration and violators may be subject to criminal penalties.

EMERGENCIES AND EVACUATIONS
In the case of an emergency, please follow the instructions of any KHSAA or UK Athletics staff member and public address announcer, proceed to the nearest exit in a calm and safe manner. Guests should use the stairs and ramps as a means of evacuation. Elevators may not be working at the time.

ENTRY
Fans are encouraged to make an early entry to Kroger Field for all games. Long lines develop at some stadium gates just prior to kickoff. Spectators can ease congestion by entering earlier.

FAMILY RESTROOMS
There are family restrooms located on the lower concourse near sections 4 and 24.

FIRST AID LOCATIONS
North side lower concourse near section 9 and South side lower concourse near section 22.

GAME DAY ASSISTANCE
The Game Day Assistance program enables fans to start a conversation with UK Athletics staff. Fans can text UK MESSAGE & SEAT LOCATION to 69050.

GAME FIELD
In the interest of participant, staff and spectator safety, public access to the playing field, at any time, is strictly prohibited.

GOLF CARTS
In the interest of safety for all guests and pedestrians, guests’ golf cart use will be prohibited in the Kroger Field Complex to include all parking lots, sidewalks, streets, etc.

This policy includes motorized scooters, coolers, mopeds etc. Guests are asked not to bring golf carts to the complex.

LOST CHILDREN
Parents and guardians with a lost child should contact the nearest police officer, KHSAA staff member or UK Athletics staff member. If a child gets separated, he or she should notify the nearest police officer, KHSAA staff member or UK Athletics staff member.

NURSING MOTHERS
There are six family restrooms located throughout the stadium that will accommodate nursing mothers. They are located on the lower concourse near section 4 and 24.

PETS
Pets, with the exception for service dogs, are prohibited from entering Kroger Field and surrounding parking lots/tailgating areas.

PHONE NUMBERS (area code 859)
First Aid – 323-3819
Lost & Found – 257-1616 (UK Police Department)
UK Police – 257-1616
University Switch Board – 257-9000

POLICE ASSISTANCE LOCATION
Between Ramps 3 & 4 on the north lower concourse.

PROHIBITED ITEMS
The following items are welcome inside: Unopened bottle of water, smaller than one liter; personal chair backs (maximum width 18 inches); One bag per person, must be clear and not exceed 12 x 6 x 12, all bags are subject to search; small collapsible strollers that fit under a stadium seat (strollers are subject to search); camera lenses (maximum six (6) inches, no detachable lenses); service animals accompanied by guests with disabilities or a trainer.

The following items are NOT welcome inside: Outside food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages; outside food and drink containers, including hard-shell koozies; all weapons, including firearms, carried either concealed or openly are prohibited items at UK’s Kroger Field per KRS 237.115 (anyone in violation of this will not be granted entrance into Kroger Field); portable heaters & combustibles; glass, aluminum containers and ice chests; artificial noisemakers, irritants and laser pointers; all illegal substances, tobacco products and electronic cigarettes; large bags; pets; unmanned aircrafts; inflatables; poles, extensions or selfie sticks; backpacks; purses larger than a clutch that are not clear.

PROJECTILES
To ensure the safety of all guests and participants, the throwing of any objects is strictly prohibited. Guests identified throwing any objects are subject to ejection and potential prosecution.

RE-ENTRY POLICY
As per KHSAA and UK Athletics policy, guests are not permitted to exit and re-enter Kroger Field on the same ticket.

RESALE & AUTHORIZED PURCHASE
The KHSAA, in partnership with UK Athletics, cautions against purchasing tickets through unauthorized sellers. Only tickets purchased directly through the following outlets are guaranteed to be valid:

  • KHSAA
  • Ticketmaster
  • UK Ticket Office

SMOKING & TOBACCO
The use of all tobacco products and electronic cigarettes is prohibited inside and outside on University of Kentucky’s campus, including Kroger Field and surrounding parking lots.

STADIUM GATES
As you enter/exit Kroger Field gates, please be extremely cautious of vehicle traffic in surrounding lots and follow instructions of parking lot attendants. Gates 2, 4 and 9 will open one (1) hour prior to kickoff.

STADIUM SEAT SAFETY
Standing or stepping on stadium seats may lead to serious bodily injury. The KHSAA, in partnership with UK Athletics, requests, for your safety and other stadium guests, that you do not step, stand or use seats in a manner other than intended at Kroger Field.

UMBRELLAS
Umbrellas may be brought to the stadium but may not be opened in the seating areas.

WATER
Guests are permitted to enter with one unopened bottle of water smaller than a liter through the entry gates at Kroger Field.

WEAPONS
All weapons, including firearms, carried either concealed or openly are prohibited items at UK’s Kroger Field per KRS 237.115. Anyone in violation of this will not be granted entrance into Kroger Field.

 

 
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