At the Game

[stebo]

Something strange just came over me. I was trying to get to sleep, thinking about the whole damn game and I realized how two people can see one thing and think two completely opposite things. When I left the stadium, I told my girlfriend that the one good thing about the day was that it wasn't a conference game. We talked about it for awhile and I told her that I was wrong, that I was so happy to see that the athletic dept had finally gotten serious about having REAL ushers at the stadium. It has pissed me off to no avail watching all of my old friends take advantage of the lack of man power at Fouts for all these years. I was actually very very happy to see some ushers at the game telling people to get out of the seats they weren't supposed to be in. You know, we all go to the games and know that you can pretty much just sit anywhere that you want (up until today)... we know the system and when yuo know the system you take advantage of it. It sucks now; heck I will be the first to admit that my seats aren't in the best section and that this will force me to upgrade. I got lucky today because a group of my old fraternity brothers had two extra seats in their section and my guests that I was supposed to get tickets for didn't show up so I got to sit in my "mooched" seats rather than the ones that I would have had to sit in. But I don't care. It is time that we start acting like a Div I school.

And I don't care if seats are empty, you just can't go sit in them... go outside to the ticket window, walk up to it and say that you want to buy a ticket in that seat. I have tickes to the Mavs as well and when a seat is empty in the lower section I can't just mosey on down there and proclaim that it is my new seat since it is empty. I am stuck in the middle balcony (along with Chaddy ... Can't bring water in? Hell, you can't bring outside drinks into any sporting event... you can't even bring it into a movie theatre, why should you be able to bring it into Fouts? NT needs the money more than any other place that I can think of, they are the last people that shoudl just continue to let people take advantage of them.

I don't know about them running out of water, I was drinking Power Aid and they never ran out of it... but if they did (run out of water) than that sucks BUT it also means they must have sold a hell of a lot of it. Why do you think that is? Could it be because they actually made a few pennies off of concessions today? You say that ran out of water in the 2nd quarter? That pretty much pisses me off even more. If they could have been selling 4 times as many drinks all these years instead of letting people bring their own in then we might not have had to sign two money games this year. We might not have to go to LSU next year. Folks, our athletic department has the right to try and make some money off of these games, this is not a socialist cause where we are all entitled to our own space at no extra cost. There are water fountains in there, I took a drink out of one tonight. Buy one drink and fill it up out of the fountain if you are broke. And you can damn well be sure that they will be enforcing it even harded next time if they were able to sell that much water today. And since they now know that the problem was that people were just bringing their own in ... they will be better stocked next time.

I know that this whole new system is going to cost more for us to go to a game but quite frankly, it is about damn time. I don't feel "entitled" to anything at NT for free; expecially when there are others that are paying full price. As far as the students are concerned, the section needs to be expanded. That is a good problem to have. But the way to do it is to ask the dept for more seats through your student government association; not scream about the ushers that are just doing their job. This whole day just has a bad taste in our mouthes and we are looking for someone or something to take our frustration out on. Lets just be happy that they are finally enforcing the rules that should have been enforced since we moved back up to Div I in 1994.

Edited September 12, 2004 by stebo

[UNTFan23]

I concede that there were students that sat in the wrong spot. However, they weren't told until after the fact. It's kinda like changing the speed limit without posting what the limit is, then getting pulled over for violating the law.

My concern is that it may have pi$$ed off those students and there is a risk that they might not come back. If you don't want them there, tape the section off and park your security force there so no one tries to sit there. Since we're paying for the "hired guns," how about using them more effectively rather then butting heads with people? It'll go over a whole lot easier in the long run.

Additionally, there aren't any water fountains under the stands on the student side. This is a crime, especially when you don't carry enough product for the larger crowds we're experiencing, in hot weather no less.

Sounds like I need to email Jesse Davis (SGA Prez). He might be able to do something in favor of the students.

[stebo]

Sounds like I need to email Jesse Davis (SGA Prez). He might be able to do something in favor of the students.

I would totally encourage that. Remember, this was the "hired guns" (funny phrase for an usher) first game. I watched countless exchanges between the usher and fans that got sick of showing their ticket everytime they left to go get a drink. I get the feeling that it will be adjusted... but they had to come out strong their first week to let people know that the funny business had come to an end. The ushers, like the additions in the Sun Belt, will make our life a little tougher but will inevitably be part of the puzzle that save us from ourselves. Every time we give something away at a game there is someone that paid full price that feels like he/she just got ripped off. I have listened to it countless times on the deck from the people that actually spend money. I really don't give a damn if a moocher gets scared away, that is one less moocher we have to deal wih for decades to come. It is time to start acting like a IA program. Wait until they start scanning ID's.... and yes, they were supposed to start doing that this week but there was a software glitch. Those students that wait until the last minute to go in will be rolling in about halftime when they start scanning ID's next game... and I am sure they will be all over the boards complaining about it even though there is a huge ass sign hanging up saying that they are going to do it.

Edited September 12, 2004 by stebo

[GreenTiger_OriginalAcct]

The reason for the outlawing of water bottles is due to people taking alcohol into the stadium in water bottle or switching labels. This is common at most stadiums - get used to it.

My primary complaints were the tar on the seats in section E. Join the Mean Club, get the top seats, get to sit in tar. What benefits! And, one more time, the concession stands were out of water and most types of food and drinks and halftime.

I'm not sure if a letter need to go to Rick or a little higher. We seem to be having the same problems every single year.

[PlummMeanGreen]

While I agree with you completely that Fouts is an impersonal environment and we desperately need a new stadium, I still think that we need to fill Fouts. The reasoning is simple: how are we going to get a big donor to contribute for a new stadium if we can't prove that we need more room?

I believe that we are "keeping up with the Joneses" by building our fantastic Rec Center, and improving on academic buildings such as the new Chem building. The UNT master plan is amazing. Eventually, Fouts will need to go, but I think for the time being, UNT is doing a great job of getting all their ducks lined up to make their move as soon as we have the money. Besides, even if we do find someone generous enough to give us a new stadium, how can we afford to keep it open if there's no one there to enjoy it?

I realize I speak mostly on this topic as one who has been sitting at games at Fouts Field much longer than others who have recently only begun to do so; obviously (once again) the generation gap at work here. Spoke to one after the game last night who has been going to game there since the stadium opened which was about the time I was born.

Again, a new stadium in Denton is needed just as you would tear down an old academic bldg. that is near the "to be condemned' stage. We have torn down buildings at UNT in the past not because they were at capacity usage, but because they were about to fall down, hurt somebody and then the lawyers enter that kind of scenerio.

A new stadium will be an expensive and seemedly all but a necessary evil with some on our campus who are shying away day by day from even talking about one, but still a football program like UNT's will die on the vine even in the Sun Belt Conference without one in due time. Reminder: Still only 3 winniing seasons the last 25 years in Mean Green Country. Anyone think facilities (or lack thereof) may have had something to do with even that? An Athletic Center is not a luxury, it is what most everyone else in D1-A who UNT should really want to compete against already have along with their in-place D1-A stadiums.

Yet as of Sunday morning, September 12, 2004, does anyone else feel a sudden swing of the pendulum in the SBC even though FAU is not elgible to win the league and go bowling this Fall? If they were, would not they and Troy now be the contenders for post season play in the Big Easy? No, I have not given up on our team because haven't they comeback in worse scenarios than we are seeing now as they now try to get some new players some strategic experience B4 SBC play begins?

ALL THIS IS STILL A MOOT POINT because it is still a money thing at UNT and we all know that, but others have found a way. Of course, we could talk new stadium well into the next decade after the one we're in and according to some on this board who seem know--we will do just that.

Although we would use a new stadium at Eagle Point only 5 or 6 times a year, it is still the shining jewel for most D1-A campuses when they conclude a high school recruit's visit on their campus. Almost like buying a house; that is, a real estate agent could show a prospective buyer a nice 4 car garage, backyard swimming pool and other ancillery bells and whistles that can impress that prospect, but what will eventually seal the deal for that prospective home buyer will be the actual house. At NCAA D1-A universities in the state of Texas, your stadium IS the house.

Right now, though, guess we better work on other things than just a new stadium?

Edited September 12, 2004 by PlummMeanGreen

[untbowler]

I also noticed that about 15 minutes before the game started, the line to get into the stadium on the student side was freaking long. Like.. long enough to go back to your car and wait for 30 minutes.

Uhh it only took us maybe 5 minutes to get in 15 minutes before kick-off maybe people should start getting in earlier

but there was no scanning of ID's

[drex]

I sympathize with y'all who had the problems with the outsource goons. In section E I felt like we were always under suspicion .... Why not have the 'rules of engagement' printed in the student newspaper and posted outside the gates.

[AustinTalon]

Who else got their "weapon" taken away? Mine did late in the 4th quarter. It's fine if "weapons" are banned, but could you tell me BEFORE I go in the stadium?!

Maybe explain the situation before you turn on you "mr ass hole" personality?

Very disapointing.

"weapon" = flag poles of death and rage.

Just gives me that warm, fuzzy, "I'm a terrorist" feeling.

[GrandGreen]

Forget the problems related to the new stadium crew, why spend the money. This group is bound to be much more expensive than the past practices. Is it worth the cost when the athletic department needs all the resources it can get. I just cannot believe that this is cost effective or necessary.

[GangGreen]

This fact also really annoyed me after I had to throw out my bottled water coming in.

Yeah, that pissed me off, too. I really needed something to dilute the two beers I drank at halftime.

[wizade]

Uhh it only took us maybe 5 minutes to get in 15 minutes before kick-off maybe people should start getting in earlier

but there was no scanning of ID's

Im not saying that I waited in it.. I have season tickets on the other side, but the line was huge when I walked by.

[NTEdgex2]

What happened to the vendors down from the concession stands? I have season tickets in Sec. M (next to the students) and they've always had drinks in tubs and the sausage guys right behind us. The kettle corn was there, but that was it. Are they not allowing groups to come in and make money for their charities anymore? I always thought NT got paid a fee for letting them sell. It's a real mess to have to go to the concessions stands just for a drink. Setting up the tubs always worked great in the past. Is there a reason beyond wanting all of he concessions monies? If so, the concessions people could set up the drink tubs. Or maybe campus organizations?

[Peacock]

Who else got their "weapon" taken away? Mine did late in the 4th quarter. It's fine if "weapons" are banned, but could you tell me BEFORE I go in the stadium?!

Maybe explain the situation before you turn on you "mr ass hole" personality?

Very disapointing.

"weapon" = flag poles of death and rage.

Just gives me that warm, fuzzy, "I'm a terrorist" feeling.

Yup, I was somehow able to "sneak" my 9 ft long pvc flag pole with a 3x5 nt flag in Fouts, and was told is the 2nd that I'd have to get rid of it.

I was sat right behind the the section that security began to exile. After a little little while new students filled up the same seats.

I will chalk it up to new policies, but dadgummit there were a ton of inconsistancies both on and of the field last night...

[GangGreen]

Yup, I was somehow able to "sneak" my 9 ft long pvc flag pole with a 3x5 nt flag in Fouts, and was told is the 2nd that I'd have to get rid of it.

I was sat right behind the the section that security began to exile. After a little little while new students filled up the same seats.

I will chalk it up to new policies, but dadgummit there were a ton of inconsistancies both on and of the field last night...

Yep, just part of larger problem. If Osama walks in with a rocket launcher, they can't take it away because that would be racial profiling.

I have my helmet on if the stones start to fly.

[shaft]

This thread has gone from compliants about no outsided bottles to FB will die without a new stadium to I got my flag taken away.

You shouldn't be able to bring in outside food or water. People will bring in alcohol and throw food. It also protects the concessions market.

You shouldn't be allowed to bring in a flag pole. It dangerous, and can be used as a weapon. Also your act of school spirt blocks someone else's view.

And finally the new stadium would probably have the same "new" rules.

[GangGreen]

This thread has gone from compliants about no outsided bottles to FB will die without a new stadium to I got my flag taken away.

You shouldn't be able to bring in outside food or water.  People will bring in alcohol and throw food.  It also protects the concessions market.

You shouldn't be allowed to bring in a flag pole.  It dangerous, and can be used as a weapon.  Also your act of school spirt blocks someone else's view.

And finally the new stadium would probably have the same "new" rules.

Shaft, you have certainly softened since you threw Bumpy's hench man out of a sixth story window.

Gosh, if you have problem why always rely on "the powers that be" to solve them for you. If they block your view, then say something. That's why God gave you huevos.

I have never brought a flag into a game, but it sure would be nice to see some school spirit in the stands.

[shaft]

Flags are cool. Flag poles aren't. I don't want to get poked in the eye because someone is flailing around.

Because then of course, I'd have to throw them off the back of Fouts. Suck'a!

[GangGreen]

Flags are cool.  Flag poles aren't.  I don't want to get poked in the eye because someone is flailing around.

Because then of course, I'd have to throw them off the back of Fouts.  Suck'a!

[GangGreen]

Flags are cool.  Flag poles aren't.  I don't want to get poked in the eye because someone is flailing around.

Because then of course, I'd have to throw them off the back of Fouts.  Suck'a!

Seriously, though amigo, if I have a problem with someone else I don't ask someone else to take care of it for me. I deal with it myself.

If someone is going to poke you in eye, then you shove that pole up their arse. Why rely on the stadium goons to do it for you?

PS: I can't believe I'm arguing over something so stupid, but, what is the big deal?

Edited September 12, 2004 by GangGreen

[untgirl04]

Question: if they aren't allowing any outside food or drink into the games (although I do understand the logic) will the tortillas still be allowed in? That's been a tradition at NT for quite some time, to my understanding.

And water is a little different from alcohol. Most outside venues allow you to take water into a game - must like many restaurants give you water for free. Besides, even if some people do bring water into the game, do you think it eats up that much of the concessions? Most of their money is made on the food anyway.

But my whole point in posting in the first place was to comment on the seating issue. It's dangerous when you don't allow students to leave their seats to go to the bathroom or get a drink. That's what caused all the problems at Woodstock2000 - a lack of water, lots of heat, and too many people in too small a space. If this isn't fixed, and soon, someone could have a heat stroke up there. Then the lawyers would definitely get involved.

[GangGreen]

Besides, even if some people do bring water into the game, do you think it eats up that much of the concessions?

Not if they run out at halftime. I think they made their quota.

[willy]

I think it is pathetic the way students get treated anyway. They come to support the team and to promote school spirit and get tossed around, that sucks. That stadium is big enough to comfortably seat everyone. "Just think the Longhorns even sat with the UNT fans in Austin" Think that wasn't a little rough. But, hey we survived. If there is an empty seat fill it. If a kid wants to come in and be apart of the PAID seats so what if they are empty then "What is the harm?"

Rules can get switched around when ever it is convenient for some then why not for the student , who by the way is probably struggling paying their way to school......... Even the police harass the students and no one seems to defend them. So, when is it time to say lets help the kids and quit making it so difficult for them?

I personally enjoy celebrating with the students. They want to rally and get loud and push the Mean Green to Victory and they'll be there the next week when everyone else gives up on them.

Keep the faith kids you are the FUTURE!

Edited September 12, 2004 by willy

[Baby Arm!]

I think it is pathetic the way students get treated anyway. They come to support the team and to promote school spirit and get tossed around, that sucks. That stadium is big enough to comfortably seat everyone. "Just think the Longhorns even sat with the UNT fans in Austin" Think that wasn't a little rough. But, hey we survived. If there is an empty seat fill it. If a kid wants to come in and be apart of the PAID seats so what if they are empty then "What is the harm?"

Rules can get switched around when ever it is convenient for some then why not for the student , who by the way is probably struggling paying their way to school......... Even the police harass the students and no one seems to defend them. So, when is it time to say lets help the kids and quit making it so difficult for them?

I personally enjoy celebrating with the students. They want to rally and get loud and push the Mean Green to Victory and they'll be there the next week when everyone else gives up on them.

                          Keep the faith kids you are the FUTURE!

Ok then, let's do it like a lot of schools do it. Lets move the student and band sections into the endzone seats. They should have plenty of room there. That way we will get SOME use out of those things and it leave more sideline seats for "Paying" fans. <_<

[willy]

Sounds good to me!

[shaft]

I'm not really sure we have problem here. There seems to only be one poster who had problems with the ushers. I sat in the students section. My group was able to get up and move anytime we wanted.

You shouldn't throw things at a football game, food or other wise. Don't bring sticks or other items that may injure someone. Don't block others view of the feild with additional items. Standing is one thing, but large banners are another.

And this take care of yourself mentality only works until some hits/pushes/spits/yells/whatever.