A change will go into effect regarding clear bags at high school sporting events due to safety concerns at surrounding schools in the area on Friday, March 1, 2024.
According to the Wake County Public School System, guests may have ¨One clear bag no larger than 12¨ x 15¨ x 3¨. In addition to one clear bag, event attendees may carry a small clutch bag/wristlet no larger than 4¨x 6¨x 1.”
Attendees will also be allowed to bring bags containing medical necessities and baby bags, for example, diaper bags.
Bags that are not allowed at sporting events include small pouches like a fanny pack or a belt bag. Spectating students will not be allowed to bring their backpacks or any larger bags into the stadium or stands.
Athletes and parents are upset about this rule because most people do not have a clear bag lying around their homes. People don’t always have the extra money to buy a new bag, so they will end up missing out on their child’s game.
This rule directly affects the students and spectators of Fuquay-Varina High School because most students stay after school until their game and bring their belongings, including their backpacks, to the sporting event or game. This new rule will put most students in the situation of having to find somewhere else to leave their things. Leaving belongings in unsecured spots leaves your possessions more vulnerable to being stolen or tampered with.
¨I got a yearbook pass so that I can still bring my big bags like my camera, my snack bag, and my jacket bag. Other team parents are upset about the rule because the rising cost of getting into games and the rising cost of getting bougie ziplock bags is a barrier to many families, ¨ said English teacher and parent Bonnie Halle.
With the increase in ticket prices and the increase in bag prices, this new rule is going to stir up a lot of drama with the teams’ parents. Many families may not be aware of this new rule or they may not be able to afford to buy a clear bag.
We will see what happens at the first games on Friday, March 1, at the FVHS versus Pinecrest High School varsity mens lacrosse game at home at 6 p.m. and the FVHS versus Holly Springs High School varsity mens baseball game at home at 7 p.m.
