Clemson football reduces Memorial Stadium capacity to 19,000 fans

Memorial Stadium will welcome up to 19,000 fans when the Clemson Tigers take the field this fall.

Clemson Athletics announced the reduced capacity via a school statement on Thursday that included additional information for to-be spectators hoping to watch the Tigers play in-person.

Tailgating and large groups are prohibited, and traditions such as the Tiger Band parade, Tiger Walk, and Gathering at the Paw won't take place. Fans will be seated in pods of two or four affiliated guests, and those pods will be socially distanced. Face coverings, such as masks, are required for customers not actively eating or drinking.

Clemson athletics director Dan Radakovich said:

“We are thankful for the careful review and approval from Governor McMaster, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control for our plan to host fans in our venues this fall. Our IPTAY and athletic staff have worked tirelessly and taken a comprehensive look at the gameday experience.

“Clemson sought input from external medical, public health and facility planning experts during the process, as well as the University Strategic Operations Group. With the information available today, we are confident in our ability to safely allow fans at games, which is incredibly important to our student-athletes, coaches, fans, and local community. We’ll continue to monitor guidance and make adjustments if necessary.”

Clemson opens the season at Wake Forest on Sept. 12.