The terror threats on seven NFL stadiums three weeks ago proved to be nothing more then an Internet hoax by some message board posters. Still, the aftermath did spark conversation that sporting events could someday be a prime target for acts of violence.
In the past six years we’ve learned that nothing is off limits when it comes to the sick world of terrorism.
The events of 9/11 changed America’s thoughts on mainland terrorism yet somehow sporting events seemed unaffected, judging by attendance at regular season games, the 2001 World Series (in New York that year), the incredible gathering for the 2001 Super Bowl in New Orleans, and the Winter Olympics that followed in Salt Lake City the following February.
“Bag check, no fly zones, bomb checks, and mainly increases in staffing. Across the board sports venues are much more prepared then ever before,” says Jason Bauman, associate athletic director/ athletic facilities and operations at UVA. “We know what we are looking for, we get good info from the Department of Homeland Security. We plan and are prepared…if we had an incident, I think it is more well thought out. We know what we are going to do.”
So now five years later, how secure do you feel at a sporting event? How concerned are you with safety? Does the thought even cross your mind? Or is it not even an afterthought?
People might feel awkward or overly sensitive or overly dramatic when discussing the possibility of a terrorist attack at a UVA football game. The truth is, Bauman is briefed weekly, sometimes daily, by the Department of Homeland Security. That’s not to cause greater concern but rather ensure a sense of security.
But there are privacy issues too.
Gordon Johnston, a 60-year-old high school teacher in Tampa, sued the Tampa Sports Authority, which oversees security for Tampa Bay Buccaneers games, in 2005. Johnston won and pat-downs of fans were halted at Raymond James Stadium.
The Washington Redskins continue pat- downs this season. The UVA Cavaliers do not.
“Every venue is very different,” said Bauman. “In Washington D.C., you are in the nation’s capital. Their restrictions, their security is likely to be very different than a venue in the Midwest, West, or even in Charlottesville. Every venue looks at the security, what is the best for them.”
So how should a Virginia fan feel on a 1-10 scale with 1 being the least confident and 10 being the most secure?
“Although we strive for perfection,” says Bauman, “I don’t know if we can really ever get there, but I easily say 8 or 9. Very high. I feel very good with the plan we have in place.”
Wes McElroy hosts “The Final Round” on ESPN 840.