Colorado athletic director Rick George sends letter to student body about in-game behavior
Colorado athletic director Rick George is all for the Buffaloes’ fanbase going wild to see their football program succeeding — but to a certain extent.
He penned a letter to the Colorado student body ahead of Saturday’s home game to reassess expectations for behavior in the student section, especially in regard to anything that could cause harm to them, or those around them.
“We want to remind [students] of our expectations of fan conduct during games,” the statement read. “We expect all our fans to refrain from vulgar language, verbal or physical abuse, underage drinking, and overall intoxication.
“This type of conduct will not be tolerated at our home sporting events, and I have instructed our gameday staff and members of law enforcement to enhance their monitoring efforts of our fans’ conduct. … In addition, I ask you to refrain from entering the field after games.”
In addition, George also called on the entire fanbase to refrain from rushing the field in the event the Buffaloes pull off the shocking upset of the USC Trojans inside Folsom Field.
After a 1-11 season a year ago, winning on the level that Colorado has done this year is reason enough for fans to celebrate on that magnitude. A win on Saturday would be even more reason, but George made his expectations clear in the letter.
“Although ‘rushing the field’ has long been a college football tradition, in recent years, many schools and conferences are cracking down on the practice, as it greatly jeopardizes the safety of players, coaches, staff and other fans,” the statement continued. “Rushing the field is in violation of University and Pac-12 regulations.
“Unfortunately, after both of our first two home games, we received an inordinate number of complaints regarding fan conduct (especially student conduct), and after both of our home game victories, students and fans ‘rushed the field.’ Such conduct is unacceptable, and I ask you to please refrain from such behavior for any future events.”
George summed up the letter by telling the Buffaloes’ faithful to stay safe and that he can’t wait to see the student body out in full force was Colorado takes on No. 8 USC this Saturday.
Kickoff between the Buffaloes and Trojans is set for Noon ET live on FOX. USC is a 21.5-point betting favorite, per Vegas Insider, despite battling Colorado on the road. The over/under total is set at 73.5 heading into the weekend.