Central Michigan University Athletics
Know Before You Go: Central Michigan Football Game Day A-Z
9/10/2026 2:26:00 PM | Football
New Fan Fest experience will debut on stadium’s North Side; CMU to celebrate Family & Friends Weekend/Extra Yard for Teachers/Football Alumni Day; Kelly/Shorts Stadium is a cashless venue in all areas including parking, concessions, and ticketing; Members First Credit Union will serve as Saturday’s game day sponsor.
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich.—Central Michigan hosts Colgate for its home opener on Saturday, Sept. 12 at Kramer/Deromedi Field at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Kickoff is at 1:02 p.m. ET. Members First Credit Union will serve as official game sponsor.
Here are a few things that you need to know before you attend Saturday's game:
NEW THIS YEAR: FAN FEST!
Opening three hours prior to kickoff for each Saturday home game, Fan Fest will give Chippewa fans a destination to eat, drink, and enjoy a variety of activities before entering the stadium.
Fan Fest will feature the new Gold Post BBQ & Beer on the Fabiano Brothers Patio, where fans can purchase beer and smoked barbecue from CMU Dining Services. The pre-game experience will also include the Meijer Kids' Zone with bounce houses, yard games, and a coloring station; face painting; a photo booth; sponsor tents and interactive activities; appearances and performances from CMU spirit groups; autograph sessions featuring Chippewa student-athletes from other athletic programs; the traditional Spirit Walk; and the new Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show.
Hosted by Voice of the Chippewas Adam Jaksa, the Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show will begin two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff and bring fans closer to the upcoming matchup with live pre-game coverage from the Fan Fest stage, along with special guests throughout the season.
The Spirit Walk will remain a centerpiece of the Chippewa pre-game tradition, taking place two hours and five minutes prior to kickoff as the football team makes its way from the west entrance of the Courtyard Marriott to the main doors of the Chippewa Champions Center alongside fans, the Marching Chips, and CMU cheer and dance teams.
CENTRAL MICHIGAN FOOTBALL GAME DAY A-Z
Accessibility – Handicapped Patrons
Accessible seating is available. Fans requiring special assistance are urged to make ticketing arrangements through Ticket Central (989-774-3045) in advance.
Alcohol
It is strictly prohibited to bring alcohol into Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Individuals violating this policy are subject to ejection from the stadium. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased inside the stadium at designated locations.
ATM
There are no ATMs located inside the stadium. We recommend visiting an ATM prior to arriving on campus.
Bag Policy
To enhance security measures and help speed entry, Central Michigan has implemented a clear bag policy for all football games. Each spectator is permitted to enter Kelly/Shorts Stadium with one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag not to exceed 12 x 6 x 12 and one clutch or wallet no larger than 4.5 x 6.5.
Camera Policy
Small cameras are allowed; however, camera bags are not permitted in the stadium.
Cashless Venue
Central Michigan Athletics has transitioned to cashless payment on game days for all events. Central Michigan has initiated a new digital parking system. Payment by credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay is accepted at all stadium concessions stands, and day-of tickets can be purchased using the same services. Apple Pay and Google Pay are available with the new parking system as well as credit and debit cards.
Central Michigan Merchandise
For official Central Michigan Chippewas merchandise, look no further than the CMU Bookstore. Once the gates open, stop in our Chippewas Varsity Shop stocked with the latest gear from the Adidas sideline collection. Our other game day location is on the island between lots 62 and 63 at the North end of the facility.
Chippewa Pride
We are honored to be known as the Chippewas and we are very proud of our close relationship with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. The mimicking, stereotyping, and misrepresentation of Native American cultures and people are attitudes and behaviors that will not be tolerated. Offensive behavior or insensitive actions are not tolerated at any athletic events and will be subject for removal.
Clear Bag Policy
Kelly/Shorts Stadium has a clear bag policy. Fans may enter with a clear tote or storage bag and one handbag. Details on each are listed below:
Clear Tote: plastic, vinyl, or PVC no larger than 12x6x12".
Storage Bag: 1-gallon clear plastic reusable bag.
One Handbag: no larger than 4.5x6.5" with or without strap.
CMU Chippewa Sports Network presented by Fabiano Brothers
Play-by-play announcer Adam Jaksa and color commentator Brock Gutierrez bring fans every first down, touchdown, and goal line stand throughout the season. Listen to all games locally on 98.5 WUPS, at www.CMUChippewas.com or the Central Michigan Athletics App.
Concessions
Concessions stands are located throughout the entire main (west) and east concourses, at club level and the south entrance. From traditional stadium flare to local flavors, concession stands are located throughout the East and West concourses, at Club Level, and at the South entrance. All points of sale are cashless; FLEX dollars, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted as payment.
Conduct
Central Michigan Athletics expects all fans to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times before, during and after the game. We expect all fans to treat other fans, players, coaches, and officials with courtesy. Fans should contact a stadium official or a police officer if they feel someone is not acting appropriately. Fans may also report game day problems, unruly fans, or suspicious activity by calling (989) 774-3081.
Digital Ticketing & Home Football Game Tickets
Central Michigan utilizes a digital parking system. Fans need to download their apple wallet or google wallet to allow for seamless entry into the lots. The digital parking system will only accept debit card, credit card, apple pay and google pay. Game day lots are located on the south side (scoreboard side of the stadium) in lots 63 and 73. All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff.
Visit the 2026 Ticket Central page for information on how to purchase digital tickets and parking passes on a single-game or full-season basis. Accessible seating is available. Fans requiring special assistance are urged to make ticketing arrangements through Ticket Central (989-774-3045) in advance.
Central Michigan Athletics uses digital tickets for student admission to all ticketed athletic events. Admission remains free for all Central Michigan students, but students are required to present a digital pass upon entrance to ticketed events instead of using a CMU-issued ID.
Fan Fest
Opening three hours prior to kickoff for each Saturday home game, Fan Fest will give Chippewa fans a destination to eat, drink, and enjoy a variety of activities before entering the stadium.
Fan Fest will feature the new Gold Post BBQ & Beer on the Fabiano Brothers Patio, where fans can purchase beer and smoked barbecue from CMU Dining Services. The pre-game experience will also include the Meijer Kids' Zone with bounce houses, yard games, and a coloring station; face painting; a photo booth; sponsor tents and interactive activities; appearances and performances from CMU spirit groups; autograph sessions featuring Chippewa student-athletes from other athletic programs; the traditional Spirit Walk; and the new Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show.
Hosted by Voice of the Chippewas Adam Jaksa, the Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show will begin two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff and bring fans closer to the upcoming matchup with live pre-game coverage from the Fan Fest stage, along with special guests throughout the season.
First Aid/Emergency Medical Assistance
First aid is available next to section A on the NW corner of the stadium. The first aid section is operated by MyMichigan Health in partnership with CMU Athletics. In case of emergency, please seek out the nearest police officer, usher, or security guard for assistance, or call Central Michigan Police at (989) 774-3081 or 911.
Food and Beverage
Outside food and beverages are prohibited.
Gates
All gates to Kelly/Shorts Stadium open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. All bags should adhere to CMU's clear bag policy and are subject to search. There are gates located on all four corners (Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, or Southeast) of the stadium.
Game Programs
Official digital game programs and the 2026 CMU Football Yearbook are now free! The latest digital game program and CMU Football Digital Yearbook can be found at www.CMUChippewas.com.
Guest Services/Lost and Found
Information regarding Kelly/Shorts Stadium can be found at the Fan Central kiosk located just inside the Northwest gate. If any article is lost or found in the stadium, please inquire about or report it to the Fan Central kiosk. Articles not claimed prior to the end of the game are turned over to the CMU Police, who can be reached at (989) 774-3081.
Permitted Items
The following items may be brought into the stadium:
Prohibited Items
For the safety and game day experience of all fans, the following items are prohibited from entering the stadium:
Central Michigan University reserves the right to deny anyone or anything from entering the stadium. Items that are left behind at point of entry are not the responsibility of the university.
Parking
All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff and remain open until kickoff. Tailgate lots will shut down at kickoff. Chippewa Club members and season ticket holders can save money by purchasing a season pass. Contact Ticket Central at (989) 774-3045 or visit the Ticket Central Page for more information.
Chippewa Club Parking Lot Hierarchy:
Lot 64 VIP
Lot 64
Lot 62W
Lot 62E
Any patron interested in parking may purchase passes in lots 63 and 71 based on availability. Parking passes can be purchased in advance at Ticket Central, or through Central Michigan's digital partnership with Paciolan. Fans need to download their apple wallet or google wallet to allow for seamless entry into the lots. The digital parking system will only accept debit card, credit card, apple pay and google pay. Game day lots are located on the south side (scoreboard side of the stadium) in lots 63 and 71. All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff.
Pets
All pets (including dogs) are prohibited inside Kelly/Shorts Stadium and tailgate areas. (Exception: Service animals are allowed to assist those with disabilities.)
Security
Our emergency action plan is designed in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security to keep all fans safe while providing a pleasant game day experience. This is accomplished by all fans being aware of their surroundings and reporting any issues to police or security. Security personnel, trained annually for emergency procedures, are located throughout the stadium. All fans are subject to search as they enter the stadium to ensure a safe and secure environment.
Spirit Walk
Fans are encouraged to join the Marching Chips, CMU Cheer, and CMU Dance as they cheer on the CMU Chippewas when they make their walk from the Courtyard Marriott to the Chippewa Champions Center ahead of the game!
Strollers
Strollers are allowed but can't be left unattended in the concourse or areas of the stands. They are subject to search at the gates.
Student Access Passes
Central Michigan Athletics has transitioned to using digital tickets for student admission to all ticketed athletic events. Admission remains free for all Central Michigan students, but students are required to present a digital pass upon entrance to ticketed events instead of using a CMU-issued ID.
Text Hotline
Central Michigan has initiated a text hotline for issues and emergencies that arise on game day. Fans are encouraged to text (989) 546-3641 to report issues via Switchbase. A Central Michigan administrator will respond to each inquiry.
Tobacco Use
Central Michigan University establishes the following tobacco free policy, for all CMU properties, facilities, and vehicles in which university functions are offered or carried out, regardless of location. This includes all CMU sites whether owned or leased. As used herein, tobacco products includes traditional cigarettes, ecigarettes, chew, pipes, cigars, hookah or waterpipe smoking, snus, snuff, etc.
Tickets
Tickets may be purchased on in advance or on game day by visiting one of the ticket booths at the stadium. For pricing information, visit the Ticket Central Page. Ticket windows and public will call windows open three hours prior to kickoff. All others will call windows open 1 1/2 hours prior to kickoff.
CMU students receive free admission to all CMU sporting events with their student ID card. The student gates are located at the Northeast and Southeast gates of the stadium.
50/50 Raffle
50/50 raffle tickets are available at each home game. Ticket sellers can be found throughout the stadium. The winning ticket number is announced in the third quarter.
Here are a few things that you need to know before you attend Saturday's game:
NEW THIS YEAR: FAN FEST!
Opening three hours prior to kickoff for each Saturday home game, Fan Fest will give Chippewa fans a destination to eat, drink, and enjoy a variety of activities before entering the stadium.
Fan Fest will feature the new Gold Post BBQ & Beer on the Fabiano Brothers Patio, where fans can purchase beer and smoked barbecue from CMU Dining Services. The pre-game experience will also include the Meijer Kids' Zone with bounce houses, yard games, and a coloring station; face painting; a photo booth; sponsor tents and interactive activities; appearances and performances from CMU spirit groups; autograph sessions featuring Chippewa student-athletes from other athletic programs; the traditional Spirit Walk; and the new Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show.
Hosted by Voice of the Chippewas Adam Jaksa, the Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show will begin two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff and bring fans closer to the upcoming matchup with live pre-game coverage from the Fan Fest stage, along with special guests throughout the season.
The Spirit Walk will remain a centerpiece of the Chippewa pre-game tradition, taking place two hours and five minutes prior to kickoff as the football team makes its way from the west entrance of the Courtyard Marriott to the main doors of the Chippewa Champions Center alongside fans, the Marching Chips, and CMU cheer and dance teams.
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CENTRAL MICHIGAN FOOTBALL GAME DAY A-Z
Accessibility – Handicapped Patrons
Accessible seating is available. Fans requiring special assistance are urged to make ticketing arrangements through Ticket Central (989-774-3045) in advance.
Alcohol
It is strictly prohibited to bring alcohol into Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Individuals violating this policy are subject to ejection from the stadium. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased inside the stadium at designated locations.
ATM
There are no ATMs located inside the stadium. We recommend visiting an ATM prior to arriving on campus.
Bag Policy
To enhance security measures and help speed entry, Central Michigan has implemented a clear bag policy for all football games. Each spectator is permitted to enter Kelly/Shorts Stadium with one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag not to exceed 12 x 6 x 12 and one clutch or wallet no larger than 4.5 x 6.5.
Camera Policy
Small cameras are allowed; however, camera bags are not permitted in the stadium.
Cashless Venue
Central Michigan Athletics has transitioned to cashless payment on game days for all events. Central Michigan has initiated a new digital parking system. Payment by credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay is accepted at all stadium concessions stands, and day-of tickets can be purchased using the same services. Apple Pay and Google Pay are available with the new parking system as well as credit and debit cards.
Central Michigan Merchandise
For official Central Michigan Chippewas merchandise, look no further than the CMU Bookstore. Once the gates open, stop in our Chippewas Varsity Shop stocked with the latest gear from the Adidas sideline collection. Our other game day location is on the island between lots 62 and 63 at the North end of the facility.
Chippewa Pride
We are honored to be known as the Chippewas and we are very proud of our close relationship with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. The mimicking, stereotyping, and misrepresentation of Native American cultures and people are attitudes and behaviors that will not be tolerated. Offensive behavior or insensitive actions are not tolerated at any athletic events and will be subject for removal.
Clear Bag Policy
Kelly/Shorts Stadium has a clear bag policy. Fans may enter with a clear tote or storage bag and one handbag. Details on each are listed below:
Clear Tote: plastic, vinyl, or PVC no larger than 12x6x12".
Storage Bag: 1-gallon clear plastic reusable bag.
One Handbag: no larger than 4.5x6.5" with or without strap.
CMU Chippewa Sports Network presented by Fabiano Brothers
Play-by-play announcer Adam Jaksa and color commentator Brock Gutierrez bring fans every first down, touchdown, and goal line stand throughout the season. Listen to all games locally on 98.5 WUPS, at www.CMUChippewas.com or the Central Michigan Athletics App.
Concessions
Concessions stands are located throughout the entire main (west) and east concourses, at club level and the south entrance. From traditional stadium flare to local flavors, concession stands are located throughout the East and West concourses, at Club Level, and at the South entrance. All points of sale are cashless; FLEX dollars, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted as payment.
Conduct
Central Michigan Athletics expects all fans to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times before, during and after the game. We expect all fans to treat other fans, players, coaches, and officials with courtesy. Fans should contact a stadium official or a police officer if they feel someone is not acting appropriately. Fans may also report game day problems, unruly fans, or suspicious activity by calling (989) 774-3081.
Digital Ticketing & Home Football Game Tickets
Central Michigan utilizes a digital parking system. Fans need to download their apple wallet or google wallet to allow for seamless entry into the lots. The digital parking system will only accept debit card, credit card, apple pay and google pay. Game day lots are located on the south side (scoreboard side of the stadium) in lots 63 and 73. All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff.
Visit the 2026 Ticket Central page for information on how to purchase digital tickets and parking passes on a single-game or full-season basis. Accessible seating is available. Fans requiring special assistance are urged to make ticketing arrangements through Ticket Central (989-774-3045) in advance.
Central Michigan Athletics uses digital tickets for student admission to all ticketed athletic events. Admission remains free for all Central Michigan students, but students are required to present a digital pass upon entrance to ticketed events instead of using a CMU-issued ID.
Fan Fest
Opening three hours prior to kickoff for each Saturday home game, Fan Fest will give Chippewa fans a destination to eat, drink, and enjoy a variety of activities before entering the stadium.
Fan Fest will feature the new Gold Post BBQ & Beer on the Fabiano Brothers Patio, where fans can purchase beer and smoked barbecue from CMU Dining Services. The pre-game experience will also include the Meijer Kids' Zone with bounce houses, yard games, and a coloring station; face painting; a photo booth; sponsor tents and interactive activities; appearances and performances from CMU spirit groups; autograph sessions featuring Chippewa student-athletes from other athletic programs; the traditional Spirit Walk; and the new Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show.
Hosted by Voice of the Chippewas Adam Jaksa, the Central Michigan Football Tailgate Show will begin two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff and bring fans closer to the upcoming matchup with live pre-game coverage from the Fan Fest stage, along with special guests throughout the season.
First Aid/Emergency Medical Assistance
First aid is available next to section A on the NW corner of the stadium. The first aid section is operated by MyMichigan Health in partnership with CMU Athletics. In case of emergency, please seek out the nearest police officer, usher, or security guard for assistance, or call Central Michigan Police at (989) 774-3081 or 911.
Food and Beverage
Outside food and beverages are prohibited.
Gates
All gates to Kelly/Shorts Stadium open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. All bags should adhere to CMU's clear bag policy and are subject to search. There are gates located on all four corners (Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, or Southeast) of the stadium.
Game Programs
Official digital game programs and the 2026 CMU Football Yearbook are now free! The latest digital game program and CMU Football Digital Yearbook can be found at www.CMUChippewas.com.
Guest Services/Lost and Found
Information regarding Kelly/Shorts Stadium can be found at the Fan Central kiosk located just inside the Northwest gate. If any article is lost or found in the stadium, please inquire about or report it to the Fan Central kiosk. Articles not claimed prior to the end of the game are turned over to the CMU Police, who can be reached at (989) 774-3081.
Permitted Items
The following items may be brought into the stadium:
- One clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag not to exceed 12x6x12
- One clutch or wallet no larger than 4.5x6.5
- Seat cushions (no pockets)
- Seatbacks (no pockets)
- Binoculars
- Cell phones
- Small non-professional cameras and radios
- Blankets and rain apparel
- Signs
Prohibited Items
For the safety and game day experience of all fans, the following items are prohibited from entering the stadium:
- Non-clear bags larger than 4.5 x 6.5 (exception of medical bags and diaper bags)
- Camera bags
- Binocular cases
- Computer bags
- Luggage
- Backpacks
- Fanny packs
- Outside food and drink including bottled water
- Aerosol and spray cans
- Weapons
- Drones
- Umbrellas regardless of size
- Animals (exception of service animals)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Coolers, thermoses, cups, bottles, cans, or flasks
- Artificial noisemakers
- Smoking in the stadium
- Signs on poles that block the view of other fans or stadium advertisement
Central Michigan University reserves the right to deny anyone or anything from entering the stadium. Items that are left behind at point of entry are not the responsibility of the university.
Parking
All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff and remain open until kickoff. Tailgate lots will shut down at kickoff. Chippewa Club members and season ticket holders can save money by purchasing a season pass. Contact Ticket Central at (989) 774-3045 or visit the Ticket Central Page for more information.
Chippewa Club Parking Lot Hierarchy:
Lot 64 VIP
Lot 64
Lot 62W
Lot 62E
Any patron interested in parking may purchase passes in lots 63 and 71 based on availability. Parking passes can be purchased in advance at Ticket Central, or through Central Michigan's digital partnership with Paciolan. Fans need to download their apple wallet or google wallet to allow for seamless entry into the lots. The digital parking system will only accept debit card, credit card, apple pay and google pay. Game day lots are located on the south side (scoreboard side of the stadium) in lots 63 and 71. All parking lots open four hours prior to kickoff.
Pets
All pets (including dogs) are prohibited inside Kelly/Shorts Stadium and tailgate areas. (Exception: Service animals are allowed to assist those with disabilities.)
Security
Our emergency action plan is designed in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security to keep all fans safe while providing a pleasant game day experience. This is accomplished by all fans being aware of their surroundings and reporting any issues to police or security. Security personnel, trained annually for emergency procedures, are located throughout the stadium. All fans are subject to search as they enter the stadium to ensure a safe and secure environment.
Spirit Walk
Fans are encouraged to join the Marching Chips, CMU Cheer, and CMU Dance as they cheer on the CMU Chippewas when they make their walk from the Courtyard Marriott to the Chippewa Champions Center ahead of the game!
Strollers
Strollers are allowed but can't be left unattended in the concourse or areas of the stands. They are subject to search at the gates.
Student Access Passes
Central Michigan Athletics has transitioned to using digital tickets for student admission to all ticketed athletic events. Admission remains free for all Central Michigan students, but students are required to present a digital pass upon entrance to ticketed events instead of using a CMU-issued ID.
Text Hotline
Central Michigan has initiated a text hotline for issues and emergencies that arise on game day. Fans are encouraged to text (989) 546-3641 to report issues via Switchbase. A Central Michigan administrator will respond to each inquiry.
Tobacco Use
Central Michigan University establishes the following tobacco free policy, for all CMU properties, facilities, and vehicles in which university functions are offered or carried out, regardless of location. This includes all CMU sites whether owned or leased. As used herein, tobacco products includes traditional cigarettes, ecigarettes, chew, pipes, cigars, hookah or waterpipe smoking, snus, snuff, etc.
Tickets
Tickets may be purchased on in advance or on game day by visiting one of the ticket booths at the stadium. For pricing information, visit the Ticket Central Page. Ticket windows and public will call windows open three hours prior to kickoff. All others will call windows open 1 1/2 hours prior to kickoff.
CMU students receive free admission to all CMU sporting events with their student ID card. The student gates are located at the Northeast and Southeast gates of the stadium.
50/50 Raffle
50/50 raffle tickets are available at each home game. Ticket sellers can be found throughout the stadium. The winning ticket number is announced in the third quarter.
Saturday, September 12
Thursday, September 10
Thursday, September 10
Thursday, September 10