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Multiple Florida Bills Plan to Criminalize Field Storming and Court Storming

Florida could soon issue a clear statement on the legality and safety of storming courts and fields. In Florida, multiple bills have been introduced that would make field-storming illegal and court-storming illegal.

Corey Simon via Our Tallahassee YouTube

One of these bills, SB 764, introduced by Republican Senator Corey Simon. Simon is a former Florida State football player. It would allow you to enter the country if it is passed. “covered area” A first-degree misdemeanor is not allowed in an arena or stadium.

For violating this law, the penalty would be a year in prison or a $2,500 fine. Additionally, the bill defines “a”. “covered area” As “any area designated for use by players, coaches, officials, performers, or personnel administering a covered event that is on, or adjacent to, the area of performance or play.”

#13 Ole Miss at Tennessee - 2021
Because of a continuing practice of throwing things onto the field, the cheerleaders, band and other personnel were removed in 2021 from the Ole Miss at Tennessee match via PSC Highlights YouTube

Court-storming would be punished, as would anyone who throws or drops objects into the sandbox. “covered area” Moreover, they would be prosecuted. HB 319 is a nearly identical bill that was introduced in the House of Representatives. These bills could have major implications for Florida sports fans.

They would be effective October 1, if passed by the Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. If they don’t want to be in trouble with the law, college football fans in Florida will have to start field-storming in the first month 2023 season.

FSU storms the field after beating Florida - 2022
FSU storms the field following a win over Florida via PSC Highlights

Although the bills are not yet law, they have reignited debate about whether field-storming should still be permitted.

Some argue that the tradition behind storming the court or field after a big win is essential to the fan experience. It creates an electric atmosphere that can be inspiring for the team.

South Carolina Celebrates Victory
South Carolina won against Clemson for the first time in eight years. Fans stormed Death Valley to celebrate. South Carolina Gamecocks YouTube

They claim that field-storming allows fans and their teams to express their excitement. It’s an unforgettable moment of pure joy that can’t be replicated. Fans can enjoy the victory with other fans, take photos with coaches and players, and collect souvenirs like turf and goalposts. Some others argue that field-storming could be dangerous and not worth the associated penalty.

Storming the field can have severe consequences. After a win over a rival team, fans stormed the field and cost the University of Tennessee $100,000. LSU was also fined $500,000 after fans stormed the field twice during this season.

Ole Miss fans climb the goalpost after defeating Alabama in 2014
Ole Miss fans celebrate the victory over Alabama via AL.com YouTube

Even more, fans can inflict injuries on the field. One Harvard freshman was paralysed after fans knocked down the goalpost.

In this case, the new goals that can be lower after regulation will suffice.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey via CBS Sports YouTube

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey Recent announcements by Sankey and other officials about their plans to study post-game celebrations offer hope for field-stormers. Sankey might be open to considering alternative ways to regulate these events and ensure safety for attendees. The study will see schools make recommendations to the SEC at its media days next spring.

Sankey stated in his announcement: “Our institutions remain current and vigilant in crowd control best practices and continue to work with local law enforcement to develop effective security protocols at SEC venues.”

Old Dominion University fans take to the field after Virginia Tech’s defeat via PSC Highlights YouTube

It remains to be seen if other states will follow Florida’s lead and criminalize storming the court and field. One thing is certain, however: the debate about field-storming legality and safety isn’t over.

What do you think?

NEXT: Virginia Tech tight end Connor Blumrick issues an apology to a fan after he hit him during an upset loss to Old Dominion University


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