The ACC Media Days have officially kicked off in Charlotte, with ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips opening the event at 8 a.m. by announcing a new policy regarding court and field storming.
Speaking on the ACC Network, Phillips said the ACC is adding fines for schools that break the new safety rules about fans rushing the field or court.
“In the sports of football and men’s and women’s basketball, our conference has elevated its expectations around court and field safety,” Phillips said. “Members are required to continue developing event security plans, which will now include an independent third-party review, to ensure that only participants, coaches, officials, and authorized personnel are allowed in the competition area before, during, and at the conclusion of any competition."
He added, “Plans may allow spectators to access the competition area following a contest, but only after the visiting team and officials have safely exited. With these elevated safety expectations, it’s critical to ensure adequate time is provided for all members of the visiting team to leave the field or court safely. In addition, a corresponding fine structure is in place for any breaches of this new policy.”
Momentum for this policy shifted after Duke head coach Jon Scheyer publicly pushed for stronger protections following a February 2024 incident, in which Duke forward Kyle Filipowski was injured during a court storm at Wake Forest.
This new rule definitely affects the Clemson fans. For those who dont know Clemson’s “Gathering at the Paw" which after the alma mater, fans are invited onto the field to gather around the giant Tiger Paw at the 50-yard line to meet players, snap photos, sing together, and celebrate could be effected.
Phillips said the fines are $50,000 for the first time, $100,000 if it happens again, and $200,000 for a third time.
While Miami hasn’t had any recent field rushes at Hard Rock Stadium, court stormings at the Watsco Center have occurred in the past.
