SGA recently addressed the increase in intoxicated students entering Jordan-Hare stadium and sneaking alcohol in as well.
SGA advisor Brad Smith said he's noticed the change over the past few years, particularly at the Arkansas State game three weeks ago.
“I’ve worked with the student gates for about four or five years now at football games and this is probably the worst week I’ve seen when it comes to the student body being intoxicated,” Smith said. “Help us be leaders in that, whether that’s your own personal decisions or the decisions that you’re watching your friends and peers make on Saturdays sitting at the games - and any day for that matter.”
SGA President Jesse Westerhouse said he's not certain how many students are bringing alcohol into the stadium.
“I don’t know if I can speak to the number of students who are getting alcohol into the student section, because I don’t know how many are,” Westerhouse said. “However, we are thankful for the work Athletics and Student Affairs have done to keep our student section safe on game days."
the Athletics Department and Student Affairs are working to increase game day security, Westerhouse said.
"There has been an increase of both male and female officers and cooperation across the board to limit the amount of alcohol brought into the student section.”
Westerhouse said Auburn's student section has one of the best reputations in the SEC.
“From what I have seen over the years and through talking with others, I would say Auburn is doing a better job than peer institutions as far as drinking on game days goes,” Westerhouse said. “We consistently have one of the best, if not the best game day experiences in the SEC.
Westerhouse said Auburn is no worse in addressing intoxicated students in the student section than other SEC schools.
"There is no data to suggest that this problem is worse at Auburn than other schools," Westerhouse said.
SGA has no comprehensive plan to counteract the presence of alcohol in football games, however Westerhouse said the best way to prevent alcohol from causing problems is to be mindful of the decisions students are making on a case-by-case basis.
Assistant Vice President of Athletics James Harris said SGA will continue to advise students to be on their best behavior on game days.
“As we always have, SGA will continue to encourage students to make wise decisions on game days,” Harris said. “Athletics is doing all they can with increased police checks at the gates, but the issue is students’ choices throughout game day before they enter the stadium.”
The best way to address this is to encourage fans to make good decisions throughout the day before kick-off, Westerhouse said.
“As always, SGA encourages the student body to stay safe and hydrated on game days regardless of if they are intoxicated or not,” Westerhouse said. “There are hydration stations throughout the student section, and students are encouraged to use those, especially on the hot game days.”
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
