The University of Nevada has taken a number of steps, including putting a set of “zero tolerance” rules in place, to promote a positive and safe environment at Mackay Stadium during the Wolf Pack’s football games this season. Nevada opens its 2008 season at 6:05 p.m. Aug. 30 at home against the Grambling State Tigers.

As part of Nevada’s “zero tolerance” policy, fans who behave inappropriately will face arrest or be directed to leave the university campus as well as have their tickets confiscated. Officers from the University police department and the Washoe County Sheriffs’ department as well as additional security personnel will be stationed at every stadium gate to help keep fans safe and enhance the fan experience. Nevada will also have an alcohol response team of highly trained individuals on hand to deal with problems as well as additional volunteers to monitor alcohol sales in concessions areas.

The Wolf Pack has also established a Family Section in Section A in the west grandstands to provide families an alcohol-free environment at Nevada games.

“We have worked very hard to put together these initiatives to promote a safe and entertaining environment on gameday this season,” University Chief of Police Adam Garcia said. ”The majority of our fans are great and cheer on the Wolf Pack with enthusiasm and sportsmanship, but there is a small percent of people who cause trouble and ruin the gameday experience for others. With these measures in place, we will not tolerate any inappropriate behavior and can continue to provide all of our fans with a fun, safe and family-friendly environment at Mackay Stadium.”

Fans who appear visibly intoxicated will be denied access to Mackay Stadium and ejected from campus. Alcohol will not be allowed into the stadium or consumed while standing in line, and beer kegs will not be allowed in the tailgating areas. Fans who attempt to smuggle any amount of alcohol into the stadium or bring kegs to their tailgates will have their alcohol confiscated and be denied entry to the stadium. Smoking will not be allowed in Mackay Stadium this year except in a designated smoking area behind the bleachers in the north end zone.

Also new this season is a text-messaging number for fans who want to report inappropriate behavior. In addition to speaking to any usher, security member or events staff member, fans can text (775) 229-5564 to report any problems in the stands. The phone number will also be periodically displayed on Nevada’s videoboard during games.

Nevada has made several other changes to enhance the fan experience after gathering the feedback of more than 1,600 Wolf Pack ticketholders in a survey this spring. Among their concerns were the quality of concessions, the continuation of alcohol sales and parking for the general public. Nevada has addressed and improved many of those areas, including new and improved menu options, continued alcohol sales, more points of sale for concessions throughout the stadium and roving concessions vendors. Nevada has also opened up more general parking near the Peccole Park baseball stadium.

Fans are invited to visit Wolf Pack Alley, located on the north side of Mackay Stadium in “Pack Town.” Presented by the Nevada Alumni Association, Wolf Pack Alley includes live music, inflatable games in the Cricket Wireless Fun Zone and a variety of food vendors. There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at Wolf Pack Alley three hours before kickoff of each home game. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase from local favorites like Bully's, Domino's Pizza, The BBQ House, Quest for the Best Kettle Corn and Train Station Catering. Silver and Blue Outfitters will also be out once again to sell a variety of Wolf Pack gear. Admission is free.

“We are committed to our fans and helping to foster an enjoyable and safe environment at Wolf Pack games, and I think we have addressed many of our fans’ concerns with these enhancements,” Nevada Director of Athletics Cary Groth said. “Our great Wolf Pack fans play a vital part in the success of our program, and we know we can continue to provide all of our fans with a great gameday experience at Mackay Stadium.”

Tickets for the Wolf Pack’s six home games are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Link Piazzo Ticket Office at Legacy Hall or calling (775) 348-PACK (7225). Single-game tickets can also be purchased online at Nevada Wolf Pack or tickets.com (1-(800) 225-2277) or at the Lawlor Events Center box office.