'Concerning Incidents' Spark Change In Framingham High Spectator Rules

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham High School students must show their school ID or be turned away at future events at Bowditch Field, the district announced this week.

The move is part of other new spectator guidelines and was sparked by previous stadium incidents, Athletic Director Paul Spear said.

"We have had a series of concerning incidents and crowd safety requires additional measures that we are taking," said Spear. "Safety of those who participate and attend school sponsored events is the primary concern of the Framingham Athletic Department."

Officials won't allow any balls, drinks, pets or bags to enter Bowditch, and all student pocketbooks and handbags at school-sponsored events are "subject to search at the discretion of the Framingham Public School Staff."

No students will be allowed to bring backpacks into Bowditch Field for any reason.

These new guidelines also affect middle and elementary school students, as it's now mandatory that a parent, guardian or caregiver is in attendance at games with those children.

"Students should not be running around the facility unattended. All spectators should be in the bleachers to view the game," officials said.

A new bathroom policy is in effect, in which no groups of people are allowed to enter together. The district is instead enforcing a "one in one out" policy, which adults will be considered part of.

Framingham's football team faces Needham on Friday at Bowditch Field. The game is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

Here's what else to know:

• Anyone seen throwing any object inside the Bowditch complex whether toward the field or not will be subject to removal from the game.
• Once students leave the game, re-entry is not permitted.
• Loitering in common areas or underneath the stands is not allowed during the game.