Alright, folks, let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind lately – the new bag policy at Innovative Field. I’ve been a season ticket holder for the Rochester Red Wings for years, and I gotta say, this new policy threw me for a loop.
So, a couple of weeks ago, I got an email from the Red Wings organization. The subject line was something like “Important Update Regarding Innovative Field Policies.” My first thought was, “Oh boy, what’s this about?” I opened it up, and sure enough, they were announcing a new bag policy for the upcoming season.
Now, I’m all for safety and security, don’t get me wrong. But as someone who likes to bring a few essentials to the ballpark – you know, sunscreen, a hat, a scorecard, maybe a snack or two – I was a bit concerned. The email detailed the new restrictions, and let me tell you, it was a lot to take in.
Basically, they said that only clear bags no larger than 12″x6″x12″ would be allowed, or small clutch bags no bigger than 6.5″x4.5″. They also mentioned that one-gallon clear freezer bags were okay. Anything else, like backpacks, briefcases, or regular-sized purses, were a no-go. I have used to carry my backpack for daily things before, now I can’t use it anymore!
My first reaction was to dig out my old backpack and measure it. Nope, definitely too big. Then I started rummaging through my closet, trying to find something that would fit the new requirements. I found a small, clear tote bag that I had gotten at some promotional event years ago. It was a little dusty, but it looked like it would do the trick. I also found a small zipper pouch that was roughly the size of a clutch bag, but there was no strap on it.
- The Clear Bag: I used the clear tote bag to carry my larger items, like my sunscreen, hat, and scorecard. I also threw in a water bottle and a small bag of peanuts.
- The Small Pouch: I put my phone, wallet, and keys in the small pouch. Since it didn’t have a strap, I just carried it in my hand or tucked it into my pocket.
- Acceptable Bag Size: Make sure your clear bag is no bigger than 12″x6″x12″, and your small clutch is no bigger than 6.5″x4.5″. No backpacks, briefcases, or regular-sized purses!
- Medical Exceptions: If you have a medical bag, a diaper bag, or need to carry things like breast pumps or Epi-pens, those are allowed, but they might get searched.
Here’s what I ended up doing:
On opening day, I headed to the ballpark, a little nervous about whether my makeshift bag situation would pass muster. When I got to the gate, the security staff took a quick look at my clear bag and the small pouch, and waved me through. No problems at all! I just went through it!
Throughout the game, I saw a lot of other fans with clear bags of various shapes and sizes. Some people had those one-gallon freezer bags, which seemed a bit flimsy to me, but hey, whatever works. I even saw a few folks with fanny packs, but they were the small, clear kind.
Honestly, once I got inside and settled into my seat, I barely thought about the bag policy anymore. I was just happy to be back at the ballpark, watching some baseball.
So, my takeaway from this whole experience is that the new bag policy at Innovative Field isn’t as bad as it seems. It just takes a little bit of planning and maybe a little bit of creativity to make it work. And hey, if it means a safer and more secure environment for everyone, then I’m all for it. Just remember to leave your backpack at home!
