Updated guidelines outline entry procedures, permitted items and spectator conduct standards across all district venues
VICKSBURG, Miss. — The Vicksburg Warren School District announced its updated athletic event protocols and safety guidelines, including the continued enforcement of its Clear Bag Policy for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The protocols are designed to enhance security, expedite venue entry, and foster a safe, respectful environment for student-athletes, coaches, staff, and spectators across all district athletic facilities.
“Our athletic events are opportunities for students, families, and our community to come together and support our student-athletes,” said James Lewis, Athletic Director for the Vicksburg Warren School District. “We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in following these protocols and helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment at every event.”
CLEAR BAG POLICY HIGHLIGHTS
Beginning with the fall sports season, all spectators entering district athletic venues must adhere to bag specifications. While district officials encourage fans not to bring bags into venues, each attendee is permitted one approved bag from the following categories:
Clear tote bags made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc style).
Small clutch purses, with or without a strap, that do not exceed 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches (approximately the size of a hand).
Diaper bags are allowed when accompanied by an infant or young child. Exceptions are also granted for medically necessary equipment after visual inspection at the gate. Credentialed media and personnel may enter with non-compliant bags following inspection.
Prohibited bags include clear backpacks, fanny packs, opaque diaper bags (unaccompanied), and traditional purses or totes exceeding the clutch size limit. Prohibited bags cannot be placed inside clear bags. All bags and items are subject to visual search prior to venue admission.
PROHIBITED ITEMS & FACILITY RULES
To ensure attendee safety and compliance with Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) rules, the following items are strictly prohibited inside athletic facilities:
Weapons, alcohol, drugs, and tobacco products, including vapes of any kind.
Outside food, beverages, coolers, or rigid containers.
Throwable objects, including athletic balls.
Non-compliant artificial noisemakers, including whistles, air horns, and sound amplifiers.
Non-service animals.
Fans may bring personal items such as keys, phones, wallets, and binoculars or cameras (without cases) directly into the venue. Blankets are permitted to be carried loosely over an arm or shoulder.
ADMISSION, STUDENT ENTRY AND FAN BEHAVIOR
District administration reminds attendees of key admission policies and behavior expectations:
Student Entry: Students in junior high school or younger must be accompanied by a responsible adult for entrance. Non-compliant students will be turned away without refunds.
Credentials and Tickets: Teacher ID badges will be accepted for regular-season contests to admit the employee only. Teacher IDs will not be accepted for special events, playoff games, or the Red Carpet Bowl. Official state passes are accepted for the pass holder only. Children age 5 and younger receive complimentary admission. All ticket sales are final, and no refunds will be issued.
Restricted Access: Spectators are prohibited on fields, courts, or sideline areas at all times.
Sportsmanship: In accordance with MHSAA standards, fans are expected to maintain appropriate conduct. Heckling, taunting, vulgarity, or physical contact with fans, players, coaches, or administrators will result in immediate removal.
Failure to comply with facility rules or local law may result in refusal of entry or ejection from the venue without a refund.
MEDIA CREDENTIALS AND ACCESS
All news media, photographers, and independent journalists intending to cover Vicksburg Warren School District athletic events must receive advance credentialing approval from the VWSD Athletics Department. Unapproved media representatives will not be granted sideline or press box access. An update regarding the full media credentials policy, application procedure, and venue access guidelines will be released in the coming weeks.