:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49353029/usa-today-9200507.0.jpg)
Stringent new security measures are going into place ahead of Saturday's match against New York City FC, and it has less to do with a match against a local rival and more a new standard being implemented league-wide. According to a press release from the Philadelphia Union, "Beginning this Saturday, April 23 at Talen Energy Stadium, a new minimum standard Bag Policy and guest screening measures will be instituted to correspond with security measures taken by the other professional sports leagues in North America."
So what does it mean?
From now on, unless you have a specific medical need or are the parent of an infant child, the following items :
- Large purses
- Coolers
- Briefcases
- Backpacks
- Luggage of any kind
- Computer bags
- Camera bags
- Any bag larger than 14’’x 14’’x 6’’
If you normally bring a bag, make sure it's smaller than the requirements and isn't one of the types listed above. If you have any questions about this, contact your ticket rep.
Why are they doing this?
MLS is not immune from problems. We watch the world's game, and it makes sense that we should be cognizant that there's the chance that the world's problems may follow. It's a sad reality that we all live in. According to the press release, "The increased security policy was unanimously supported by the MLS Board of Governors and involved input from all 20 MLS clubs." It should be noted that this policy doesn't seem to vary much from that of the Phillies, the Eagles, the Flyers, or the Sixers.
How are people reacting?
As poorly as you'd expect. People have taken to twitter to vent their frustrations:
#MLS: Major League Security.
— James (@LoneStarStriker) April 19, 2016
Even to go so far as posting a picture of MLS' Senior VP of Security and Operations as some sort of shaming attempt or something:
Here's the dickhead #MLS VP of stadium security.
— ⒶMK.121 (@AhmedKayad) April 6, 2016
Hey Ray Whitworth, Just know that you can't silence our passion pic.twitter.com/CvDMIGXa7m
Who knows why people are mad online. Personally I'd rather people be mad online than have something horrible happen while I'm watching a match, but I'm weird like that.
How do you feel about this? Let us know in the comments section below.