Want to go to Virginia State University’s homecoming football game on Oct. 23? What about the “Take a Kid to the Game” day this Saturday, Oct. 9, at Rogers Stadium on the Ettrick campus?

If so, make sure you take your COVID-19 vaccination card with you.

VSU officials announced last week that, effective immediately, all guests at Rogers Stadium and other campus athletic events are required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination before entry.

The new requirement is part of an effort to ensure the health and wellness of the VSU community and campus visitors.

“Right now, our campus has an infection rate below 1 percent,” stated Peggy Davis, VSU’s associate vice president for intercollegiate athletics. “Our goal is to maintain or even reduce our already low positivity rate in an effort to eradicate the virus on campus all together. At all times, the safety of our students comes first and this step further demonstrates that as our priority.”

Anyone 18 and older will need to provide proof of vaccination, along with a photo I.D.

Masks also are required to be worn outdoors at VSU, except when eating or drinking.

University officials stated that the requirements will be enforced, including at the homecoming game against Lincoln University.