Thomas Jefferson University Athletics Tailgating Policy
The Thomas Jefferson University Department of Athletics, in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety, encourages spectators to create a positive game-day atmosphere at home athletic contests. The following guidelines are designed to provide a safe, responsible, and family-friendly environment on campus:
- Individuals and groups are expected to follow all relevant federal, state, and local laws as well as official university policies and procedures. Tailgaters are expected to follow instructions provided by official university staff members acting in accordance with the duties of their job.
- Spectators, regardless of age, are not permitted to consume or possess open alcoholic beverages (including bottles, cans, kegs, beer balls, drinking-game paraphernalia, etc.) during tailgates, except during official university-sponsored functions. The consumption of alcohol by minors (those under 21 years of age) or the serving of alcohol to minors is a violation of federal and state law as well as the University alcohol policy. Alcoholic beverages and containers are strictly prohibited from the competition venue.
- Tailgaters are not permitted to use adjacent parking spaces or obstruct driving lanes or pedestrian walkways when setting up personal tables, chairs, tents, and games/activities. All tents must be securely anchored. It is recommended that tailgaters use grass areas adjacent to the playing field to set up tents.
- The use of propane or charcoal grills as well as open fires in the parking lots is strictly prohibited.
- Tailgaters are expected to dispose of trash in proper receptacles prior to and after the athletic contest. Pre-game tailgating activities should conclude at the start of the contest. Post-game tailgating should conclude approximately one hour after the end of the contest. Public Safety officers may direct tailgaters to clear parking lots outside of these established time periods.
- Animals must be kept on a leash at all times and are not to be left alone and/or unattended in a vehicle. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
- Tailgating (with the exception of official University-sponsored activities) is prohibited at any off-campus venue.
- Visiting athletic teams or parent groups interested in holding a post-game meal or reception on campus must contact Coordinator of Equipment, Transportation and Recreational Programming Rob Nelson at (215) 951-2723 or robert.nelson@jefferson.edu at least one week prior to the scheduled contest so that appropriate reservations and accommodations can be made. Jefferson Athletics has a limited number of tables that can be used by visiting teams for post-game gatherings. It is strongly recommended that groups provide their own tables. On game-day, visiting groups should speak with the assigned event manager at the competition venue for further instructions and help finding the designated reception location. Alcohol is not permitted at post-game meals or receptions.
- Persons acting in a disruptive, disrespectful, or disorderly manner may be asked to leave the premises or subject to citation. Thomas Jefferson University students may be charged with a violation of the Code of Conduct and subject to disciplinary action.
- Thomas Jefferson University is not responsible or to be held liable for accidents, damages, loss or theft of materials, items, or personal property.
- In the case of an emergency, please contact the Department of Public Safety at (215) 951-2999.
