SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – The Missouri State Bears kick off their home opener for their first football season in Conference USA Saturday. And students are ready for it.
The 2:30 p.m. kickoff against Southern Methodist University is not just the first home game with the Bears in the FBS; it’s the first home game with a few notable changes and shiny new details added to Plaster Stadium, like fresh turf, stadium lights capable of producing light shows, and more options at the concession stand.
The school is expecting a nearly sold-out crowd. A bigger crowd size also comes with changes to student tailgating, moving it to a larger parking lot.
Students are excited about the huge crowd for the recognition it will bring to their school.
“I love seeing the environment,” said junior Monique Fiagan. “I love seeing all the alumni and just people that want to support Missouri State in their future endeavors and how we can grow as a school.”
They’re also excited for the recognition it will bring to the football team and those cheering them on the loudest.
“It was super exciting for all of us once we found out that the football team was going to be moving conferences,” said Pride Band member Elisa Valbuena. “Because it also opened up opportunities for us. I just know the energy will be something that we will definitely feed off of, and that it’s just gonna make the team and us and everyone just have such a great experience.”
To ensure the larger crowd is as safe as possible, a clear bag policy will be in effect, requiring all bags to be clear plastic and no larger than 12 by 12 inches. Additionally, small clutch bags will be permitted, but must be no larger than 5.5 by 7.5 inches.
With the summer heat coming back in full swing, the state of Missouri is allowing fans to bring in one clear plastic, unopened water bottle. There will also be water fountains and water stations set up throughout the area.
“I basically feel like I’m really in college,” said sophomore Ella Hayes. “Like it makes me feel like Monsters University.”
“Yeah, like the college that you see in the movies,” Fiagan said.“ It’s like I’m living that life now to see the pride band, the color guard, and everybody come out, it’s amazing.”
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