MACOMB, Ill. -- Western Illinois University Athletics has several game day strategies and health and safety protocols in place to ensure all fans have a great experience at Hanson Field during football game days. Check out the Know Before You Go guide below: 

The game will kickoff at 6:02 p.m. CST and will be broadcasted on ESPN+.

Game Day Timeline

• 1:00 pm - Tailgate lots open 

• 1:30 pm - Family BBQ Day Cook-off begins 

• 4:30 pm - Ticket Office opens 

• 4:30 pm - All gates open 

• 5:00 pm - Alcohol sales begin inside Hanson Field

• 5:30 pm - Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra opens

• 5:38 pm - WIU Football Senior Day Recognition Begins

• 5:50 pm - Team warm ups 

• 6:02 pm - Kickoff vs. McKendree

Parking

Parking lots will open at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, for WIU's matchup against McKendree. The Leatherneck Club Preferred parking area, presented by Toyota, is for Leatherneck Club members who have purchased season tickets. Members with season tickets contributing at the Captain level and above have RESERVED parking locations within that area. Members with season tickets contributing at the Varsity level have access to the preferred area on a first-come, first-served basis.

All other parking is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Handicapped Accessible Parking

Handicap accessible parking is located on the west side of Q Lot nearest to Western Hall.

Clear Bag Policy
The only bags that will now be permitted inside Hanson Field include:

• Bags that are transparent plastic, vinyl or PVC tote and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar)
• Small clutch bags no larger than 5.5"x 6.5"
• An exception will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after proper inspection at the main gate

For more information on the clear bag policy, click here.

General Fan Information for September 28

Family BBQ Day: Join the WIU School of Agriculture and the Office of Student Engagement as we look forward to the sixth annual Food, Family, Farming, Football BBQ Competition on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The event begins at 1:30 pm and features: 

• Live music

• Family activities 

• Bags tournament

• The battle for the best BBQ around 

**Food will be served while supplies last.**

Tickets, t-shirts, and packages can be pre-ordered through September 26th at noon. These items can also be purchased at the event, while supplies last. 
 

Student Tailgate: The Student Tailgate space is located at the east end of Q Lot. WIU Students are admitted to the football game for free with their WIU Student ID.

Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra: Starting this year, Leatherneck Club members at the All-American level have access to the Touchdown Terrace presented by Michelob Ultra! The area features a field-level viewing area, free soft drinks and water, and alcohol for purchase. The terrace is located in the north endzone of Hanson Field.

Rocky's Kids Club presented by Clock Tower Bank: Rocky's Kids Club is located at the tent and tables in the southwest corner of Hanson Field. The Rocky's Kids Club captain will be honored on the field during the third quarter of the game. Kids Club packets are available for pick up in Western Hall starting today, Wednesday, September 25. 

Guest Services

Fans with questions before, during and after all Leatherneck home Football games are encouraged to contact the WIU Athletics main office via phone at 309-298-1190.