Western Illinois University Athletics has several gameday strategies and health and safety protocols in place to ensure all fans have a great experience at Hanson Field during football game days. Check out the Know Before You Go guide below:
The game will kick off at 3:02 p.m. CST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Game Day Timeline
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10:00 a.m. – Tailgate lots presented by Toyota open
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1:30 p.m. – Ticket Office opens
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1:30 p.m. – All gates open
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2:00 p.m. – Alcohol sales begin inside Hanson Field
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2:30 p.m. – Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra opens
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2:50 p.m. – Team warm-ups
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3:02 p.m. – Kickoff vs. Tennessee Tech
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Halftime – 2024 Hall of Fame Class Honored on-field
Parking
Parking lots will open at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 19, for WIU’s matchup against Tennessee Tech. The Leatherneck Club Preferred parking area, presented by Toyota, is for Leatherneck Club members who have purchased season tickets. Members with season tickets contributing at the Captain level and above have RESERVED parking locations within that area. Members with season tickets contributing at the Varsity level have access to the preferred area on a first-come, first-served basis.
All other parking is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tailgate Policies
Information on tailgating policies can be seen here.
Clear Bag Policy
The only bags that will now be permitted inside Hanson Field include:
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Bags that are transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″
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One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar)
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Small clutch bags no larger than 5.5″x 6.5″
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An exception will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after proper inspection at the main gate
For more information on the clear bag policy, click here.
Handicapped Accessible Parking
Handicap-accessible parking is located on the west side of Q Lot nearest to Western Hall.
General Fan Information for October 19:
Hall of Fame Weekend: Join WIU Athletics in congratulating the newest Hall of Fame inductees! The 2024 class will be officially inducted into the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame on Friday, October 18. For more information on the Hall of Fame event, click here.
Student Tailgate: The Student Tailgate space is located at the east end of Q Lot. WIU Students are admitted to the football game for free with their WIU Student ID.
Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra: Starting this year, Leatherneck Club members at the All-American level have access to the Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra! The area features a field-level viewing area, free soft drinks and water, and alcohol for purchase. The terrace is located in the north endzone of Hanson Field.
Rocky’s Kids Club presented by Clock Tower Bank: Rocky’s Kids Club is located at the tent and tables in the southwest corner of Hanson Field. The Rocky’s Kids Club captain will be honored on the field during the third quarter of the game.
Buffalo Wild Wings and Leatherneck Sacks: Whenever the Leathernecks register a sack of the opposing quarterback at home, fans can use their game tickets to score free wings from Buffalo Wild Wings in Macomb! One sack = six free wings with purchase. Terms apply. Check season ticket backs for more details.
Guest Services
Fans with questions before, during, and after all Leatherneck home Football games are encouraged to contact the WIU Athletics main office via phone at 309-298-1190.
