Tuscon, Ariz. — University of Arizona fans at Arizona Stadium were surprised to find that there was a “no re-entry” rule in place upon leaving the stadium grounds in search of restroom facilities, making it impossible for them to watch the rest of the game Sept. 24 against Oregon. What appeared to pundits as a loss of interest after the Ducks led 35-9 at the half, was in fact the result of strict security protocol and a lack of restroom facilities.
“I was really disappointed. I really wanted to see what was going to happen after that riveting first half,” said Cory Lahey, a Tuscon native and Arizona alumnus. “I just really had to go, you know?”
What appeared to be a walkout humbled the Ducks, spurring them into a rare act of charity by allowing Arizona to pick up two touchdowns in the third quarter.
After the game, running back LaMichael James said, “I really felt bad for them, you know? I broke the scoring record and then, wow. I mean, we had to give them something.”
After the Wildcats lost eight of their last nine games, the perceived exodus was no help in defending against Oregon’s crushing offense; however, had players known it was due to a security procedure, it would not have likely helped their chances nor saved their self-esteem. ESPN2 anchors, on the other hand, would have been more forgiving.
Arizona head coach Mike Stoops said, “We just need to develop some leadership … we were overwhelmed by the amount of people needing restroom facilities.”
Stadium officials are not considering any changes to the system that prevented avid fans from returning.
“Listen,” University of Arizona President Eugene Sander said. “Adding restrooms would cost money, and that’s just not something our football program can justify right now. Also, I really think people will start buying two tickets if we prevent re-entry. Maybe then we could afford some recruitment or at least blood pressure medication for Coach Stoops.”