Orono, Maine – The University of Maine athletic department has announced new enhancements and initiatives for the football gameday experience in 2023

Enhancements to the in-stadium audio and public address system have also been added along with an updated video board graphics package, and the addition of the 'Kids Zone', presented by Hannaford.

Starting with Maine's game against Stony Brook on Sept. 30, fans will have the opportunity for additional time to tailgate as the athletic department has announced that tailgating will move from a start time of three hours prior to kickoff to four hours. This new start time will allow fans to enjoy the atmosphere of a gameday in Orono for an additional hour and assist with improving traffic flow. This new four hour tailgate will serve as a pilot period for the 2023 season. Following the season, the new policy will be evaluated before decisions are made for the 2024 tailgate policy.

Fans are encouraged to gather along Long Road in the tailgate lots and officially welcome the Black Bears to Memorial Gymnasium at 1 p.m. as the team will march up Long Road and into the locker room in a newly revamped 'Black Bear Walk'. At 2 p.m. fans are encouraged to gather in front of the fieldhouse and enjoy a special, pregame performance by the Screamin' Black Bears Marching Band, UMaine Dance Team, and the UMaine Cheer Team.

The University of Maine's new concessionaire, Sodexo, will debut new food and beverage options which will include additional points of sale in the main grandstands and a new service pattern at the concession stands which will assist in improving the customer experience.

For tickets to all Maine Athletics events, please visit GoBlackBears.com/tickets, call 207-581-BEAR, or stop by the Maine Athletics box office located at Alfond Arena.

-UMaine-