Seattle Sounders FC today announced that the team is implementing a clear bag policy for all Sounders FC home games, beginning with the team’s 2017 home opener against the New York Red Bulls on Sunday, March 19.
The bag policy – which was in place during Copa America Centenario matches across the United States last summer and has been in place league-wide for all NFL events for several years – has been implemented to provide fans with a safer environment and expedited entry on matchday. The policy places limits on the size and type of bags that fans may carry into CenturyLink Field for Sounders FC matches, providing a consistent fan experience for all stadium events moving forward.
“Providing a safe and enjoyable matchday for our fans is always our club’s primary concern,” said Sounders FC Chief Operating Officer Bart Wiley. “Aligning our bag policy with the policy already utilized for other events at CenturyLink Field was a natural step in our commitment to those concerns as we move forward.”
Under the new policy, each fan attending a game may carry into CenturyLink Field no more than one approved clear bag – not to exceed 12”x6”x12” – and up to one small clutch-style bag – not to exceed 4.5”x6.5”. One-gallon sized clear plastic freezer bags also meet the new standards.
The policy only restricts the size and type of containers used to carry items; the list of approved items has not changed. Fans may still carry usual items such as keys, wallets, makeup, cell phones, etc., in pockets or jackets, in addition to the approved containers. Medical exemptions may be made to the clear bag regulations, though medically-exempt non-clear bags must still fit the previously mentioned dimensions. All exempt fans must enter through VIP gate entrances at Northwest VIP, Northeast VIP, Southwest VIP or Club and Suite entrances.
Season Ticket Members are being provided one Sounders FC-branded clear bag per ticket in their account. These bags are being distributed in the annual Season Ticket Member boxes. Additional clear bags are available for purchase by all fans at the Pro Shop while supplies last.
While fans are encouraged not to bring along with them any bags that do not meet the standards of the new policy, Walker’s Lockers will be available to bag check non-approved bags. These bag check lockers are available in the northwest corner of the CenturyLink Field North Lot and on the corner of South Royal Brougham Way and Occidental Avenue. A fee of $10 per checked bag applies. For the first three home matches of the season and as supplies last each matchday, fans who check a bag will be provided with a clear Ziploc-style bag for their items while their bag is stored if needed.
2017 Season Ticket Memberships, including new seat options in the upper bowl, are still available by calling 877-MLS-GOAL or emailing Sales@SoundersFC.com. Single-match tickets recently went on sale and be purchased via the following link: SoundersFC.com/Tickets/Single-Match-Tickets. Seating for all games is subject to availability at time of purchase. Complete information on all Sounders FC ticket packages can be found at SoundersFC.com/Tickets.
