LSU requiring proof of vaccination or negative COVID test for fans 12 and older at Tiger Stadium

One SEC school is taking its COVID-19 protocols to the next level. LSU just announced it will require all fans 12 and older to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to entry at Tiger Stadium. The policy will be in effect starting on September 11 for LSU’s home opener vs. McNeese State.

The decision was made in conjunction with Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards, LSU President William F. Tate IV, LSU’s Board of Supervisors, Tiger Athletic Foundation, and Director of Athletics Scott Woodward.

“As the flagship institution of the state of Louisiana, our foremost responsibility is to ensure the safety of our students, our supporters, and our community,” LSU President William F. Tate IV said. “While we are aware of the diverse perspectives across the nation regarding masks and vaccinations, we must take all reasonable measures to protect our campus and community, not only on game days, but long after guests have left Tiger Stadium. The current threat to our lives, our health, and to our medical systems due to COVID-19 is overburdening our hospitals, and we must do our part to stop the spread.”

“We have the best fans in college football, and we are doing everything we can to ensure their experience in Tiger Stadium this fall is safe and enjoyable,” LSU Director of Athletics Scott Woodward said. “When our fans arrive on Saturdays to cheer on the Tigers, they will have confidence that we have taken measures to mitigate their health risks. Our football team has reached 99.1% vaccination, and we are incredibly proud of them for doing their part to protect their team and their community. We are confident our fans will do the same, and I encourage all Tiger fans to receive vaccinations today.”

At least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine or negative test required

Fans 12 or older must show proof of at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in form of a vaccination card or photo or photocopy of a vaccination card or verified digital proof of vaccination. Those who have not yet received a dose of a COVID-19 vaccination must present digital or hard copy proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of kickoff prior to entering the stadium. Guests younger than 12 will not need to present a negative test. Masks will be encouraged for children younger than 5 and required for children ages 5 to 11 years old.

Is Kentucky next?

On Sunday, Matt Jones reported that Kentucky’s current game day plan is to require masks indoors, in elevators, and in crowded areas at Kroger Field. UK Athletics lists those areas as:

• Restrooms,
• Longship Club,
• Central Bank Club,
• Inside of the Lexus Loge,
• The Central Bank Press Box,
• All elevators,
• The KFB Recruit Room,
• The Player/Guest Entrance,
• First Aid rooms,
• Offices,
• and any other spaces that are fully enclosed.

As it stands now, masks will not be required for vaccinated fans when entering, while in the seating bowl, or in individual suites. Unvaccinated fans need to wear a mask at all times both indoors and outdoors, UK notes. The full COVID-19/mask policy can be found on UKAthletics.com.

Will Kentucky and other SEC schools follow LSU’s lead? With 11 days to go until kickoff, the clock is ticking.