Homecoming Safety

Savannah State University is excited to welcome alumni, students, faculty, staff, and guests back to campus for Homecoming Week!

To ensure everyone enjoys a fun and memorable celebration, we ask all Tigers and visitors to review the safety guidelines and event policies before arriving on campus.

Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where you can celebrate traditions, reconnect with friends, and show your Tiger pride responsibly. Please familiarize yourself with parking information, event protocols, and emergency procedures listed below so we can all enjoy a safe and spirited Homecoming at SSU.

Savannah State Clear Bag Policy

For security purposes, all attendees are required to use clear bags when entering the event venues including all events held in the Tiger Arena and the T.A. Wright Stadium. Clear bags facilitate a quick and efficient security check, ensuring a smooth entry process. Please refrain from bringing large purses, backpacks or non-clear bags.
View the Clear Bag Policy!

Metal Detectors

To enhance safety, metal detectors and/or wands will be in use at the entrance points. We ask for your cooperation during the screening process. Arriving a little early will help you get through security in a timely manner, allowing you to enjoy the event without delays.

K-9 Units

Trained police dogs will be present on campus on Homecoming Game Day to assist our security team. Please be aware and follow their handlers' instructions. These dogs are here to ensure everyone's safety.

Emergency Procedures

Familiarize yourself with the emergency exits at the venue. In case of any emergency, please follow the instructions provided by event staff, security, or university officials.

Pet Policy

For the safety and comfort of all guests, pets and animals are not permitted at any Savannah State University Homecoming events. Only service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed on campus.

Active Surveillance Monitoring

For the safety and comfort of all guests, Savannah State University will have active surveillance monitoring in place during Homecoming events.

See something? Say something!

Notify any suspicious activity by calling campus police at 912.358.3004 or 911.

  • Secure all valuable items and do not leave them visible in your car.
  • Do not accept open container drinks from strangers.
  • Have a designated driver for the ride home or use a ride share service.

Homecoming Week Evening Access & Guest Policy

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable Homecoming experience for everyone, Savannah State University’s campus will close at 10 p.m. each night during Homecoming Week.

After 10 p.m., no visitation or guests will be permitted in campus housing. This policy is in place to maintain a secure and positive environment for all members of the SSU community.

Limited Entry Points and Gate Information on Game Day

General Information

  • LaRoche Avenue gate will close at 7 a.m. No vehicles may enter or exit. The LaRoche gate will remain closed throughout the day for the safety of pedestrians.
  • It is strongly advised that all fans/students/faculty/staff enter and exit campus through the Whatley, Jasmine and Falligant Gates. They will be open from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • The Jasmine Gate will be a one-way, entrance-only gate from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Jasmine gate will go back to two-way (entrance and exit) from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Tiger Arena West lot and the Student Union parking lot will be closed to the public from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Tailgating opens at 11:00 a.m. 
  • Stadium gates open at 1 p.m.  

Students

  • Students with valid residential and commuter decals will be permitted to enter campus at no charge and park in student-designated areas.
  • Parking at the University Village lot next to Building 2 will be closed beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25. All parking entrances and exits at the University Village will be suspended from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on game day.
  • Students with valid ID will be allowed access to the game and tailgating area at no charge.

Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff with valid university decals will be permitted to enter campus at no charge and park in general parking areas. 

Re-Entry

Wristbands will be provided to patrons after entry with game ticket or credential. Wristbands will only allow reentry access to the tailgating area. Patrons cannot access football game entrances with wristbands.

Tickets

All patrons are encouraged to purchase advanced tickets and parking online at SSUAthletics.com/tickets.

Game tickets can be purchased at the stadium tickets booths beginning at 10 a.m. Parking fees begin at 7 a.m. and can be purchased at the entrance gates. To avoid lines, we encourage everyone to purchase tickets in advance.

Only patrons who have either purchased a game ticket or tailgating space will be allowed in the tailgating area.

Both home and away will call gates will be located by the visitor's gate entrance.

Tailgating spots are sold out.

Access and Setup

Special setup for RVs and vendors in the tailgating area will be on Friday, Oct. 25 from
2 - 8 p.m.

General setup for individuals who have purchased Tailgating, RV or vendor spots will be on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 7 - 9:30 a.m.

No tailgating, RV or vendor spots will be sold on game day.

Stay hydrated and look out for one another!

Homecoming events can be lively and crowded. Remember to stay hydrated, especially if you’re participating in outdoor activities. Look out for your fellow attendees. If you see someone who needs assistance, please notify event staff or security personnel.

Virtual Advisor