As COVID-19 cases continue to skyrocket across the United States, there are definitely concerns about fans at sporting events, especially college football. LSU is not messing around though, becoming the first SEC school to require proof of vaccination for people 12 years of age or older to gain entry into Tiger Stadium, per ESPN.

The policy will be put into effect on September 11th for the Tigers' home opener against McNeese State. If children under 12 would like to attend an LSU game, they must show proof of a negative test and will have to wear masks. Here's the statement from LSU President William F. Tate IV, via their official website:

“While we are aware of the diverse perspectives across the nation regarding masks and vaccinations, we must take all reasonable measures to protect our campus and community, not only on gamedays, but long after guests have left Tiger Stadium. The current threat to our lives, our health, and to our medical systems due to COVID-19 is overburdening our hospitals, and we must do our part to stop the spread.”

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If an LSU fan has received just one dose of the vaccine, they will be required to show proof of a negative test within 72 hours of the game. Per the CDC, only 50% of Louisiana has actually been fully vaccinated, which is one of the lowest rates in the entire US.

This is a very smart decision by LSU and hopefully, other SEC programs follow suit ahead of the CFB season.