Middle Tennessee will allow 20% fan capacity in Floyd Stadium for its football home opener against Troy on Sept. 19, Director of Athletics Chris Massaro announced Wednesday.
The plan, done in collaboration with university, local and state health officials to mitigate COVID-19 risks, means that about 7,000 fans will be allowed in the stadium, which includes 1,000 seats held for students, Massaro said.
Also, tailgating will not be permitted on the MTSU campus, he said. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. and the game will be broadcast on ESPNU.
Capacity could change for later home games, Massaro said. The Return to Floyd Stadium Guidelines can be found on the athletics website, GoBlueRaiders.com.
"This plan is subject to change," he said. "The percentage could either expand or contract depending on how everyone in Floyd Stadium follows the guidelines during our home opener against Troy and the continuing decrease in COVID cases in Rutherford County."
More ticket details will be available during game week and fans will be required to utilize Middle Tennessee's mobile ticketing option.
All seats inside Floyd Stadium will be re-assigned to create proper social distancing. All patrons will be required to wear a mask at all times both inside the stadium and in the parking lots.
"We are committed to being as flexible as we can be this season and ensuring our fans have a safe, fun atmosphere to watch the Blue Raiders," Massaro said. "It will take everyone's cooperation to make game day the best experience it can be, and we appreciate everyone's patience and support. It will be a different experience for all involved."
Middle Tennessee will also increase cleaning and sanitization practices in all public areas of the stadium before, during and after the game.
"We've worked with the university, state and local health officials to make this possible, and I want to give them all my sincerest thanks for all of their hard work," Massaro said.
Other policies will remain the same at Floyd Stadium this fall, including the clear bag policy implemented in 2019.