Paula Silva / Contributing Writer
As the Fall semester approaches once more, so do the football and soccer seasons, with basketball right around the corner. To make sure both new and veteran fans of the Panthers are ready for the semester to begin, here’s a list of preparations to make sure your gameday experience goes well.
Check the map: In order to avoid losing time and getting lost around the Modesto Maidique Campus, be sure to follow a map of the area. If you’re walking to the stadium, you can look for maps around the campus, but if you’re driving to the stadium, download the FIU Mobile app. It includes a built-in map of both MMC and the Biscayne Bay Campus.
Arrive early to the stadium: Being on time is key. It’ll help you find a good parking spot, and even good seats with what’s available. If FIU is playing a rival such as the Florida Atlantic Owls, getting to the stadium even earlier is advised, as traffic will increase accordingly.
Wear comfortable clothes: Despite the winter season being closer and closer, the weather in Miami will always be hot and humid; therefore it’s recommended you find your most comfortable clothes and sports shoes to wear to gameday. In the case of evening soccer matches, bringing a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen is also a good idea.
Have your phone charged: You don’t want to miss recording the highlights of the game, or taking pictures with your friends. Either way, try to bring a portable charger so you don’t run out of battery. If you’re on campus, there are mobile charging stations at the Graham Center as a last resort.
Double check your belongings: Before you arrive at the arena, double check that you have everything you need. Whether it’s your keys, wallet, chapstick, or accessories, it’s best to be safe. The most important thing to bring will be your FIU One Card, as it doubles as your ticket to every sporting event on campus.
Be ready for rain: Checking the weather app is helpful, but sometimes it’s not precise enough. Having an umbrella at the reach of your hand is highly recommended, but also bring a spare poncho if it looks like rain clouds are up ahead.
Bring your friends: Attending games is exciting enough, but living this experience with friends by your side will make it so much better. Every student is allowed access to every sporting event on campus. For football, enjoy the pre-game festivities in front of Panther Hall, or meet up at 8th Street Kitchen for a quick bite.
Raise the roof: Nothing motivates the players quite like a good chant from their supporters. Represent FIU with some fresh merch from Barnes & Noble. Be sure to express your excitement when the Panthers score, and maybe even some displeasure if there’s a bad call. In any event, be sure to celebrate appropriately!
Enjoy a pre-game meal: If you want to head to 8th Street Kitchen before the game begins, go for it! If you can’t, however, the Riccardo Silva Stadium, Ocean Bank Convocation Center, and Baseball field all feature concession stands with plenty of options. If you’re feeling a cheeseburger, hot dog, Cuban sandwich or croquetas, there’s always something new to try.
In addition to the recommendations above, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 is still active in Miami-Dade County. While we can attend games again, we must protect each other from catching the virus. Here are some recommendations to keep yourself protected:
Wear your mask: It doesn’t matter which game you go to, fans are recommended to be wearing a face mask and practice social distancing as much as possible.
Wash and sanitize your hands: Try to keep your hands clean. Wash your hands with soap and water for 30 seconds before entering the arena and heading to the restroom. Also, keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your belongings to ensure your hands don’t get too dirty.
Bring your vaccination card: If you have received the vaccine for COVID-19, it’s handy to keep your vaccination card in your wallet, or at least keep a photo of it saved on your phone. Regardless if you’re going to a sporting event or anything else, you never know when you’re gonna need it.
Keep your distance: In order to follow the CDC guidelines, visitors must stick with their own group instead of being too close to people around them. If you’re in line to enter the stadium, the restroom, or are getting some food at the concession stand, follow social distancing guidelines.
FIU fans have been waiting a long time to head back to the stadium, and representing them this season will bring back a sense of normalcy in the world of FIU sports. Try to bring your spirit and pride with them to lift the team up. Whether you’re heading to the game or watching it from home, have fun and stay safe!
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