Don Haskins Center Rules

# Comprehensive Guide to Rules and Policies at Don Haskins Center The Don Haskins Center, located at 151 Glory Road in El Paso, Texas 79902, United States, is a premier venue for basketball games, concerts, graduations, and other events hosted by the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). As a multi-purpose arena with a capacity of over 12,000, it prioritizes safety, accessibility, and enjoyment for all patrons. Understanding the venue’s rules and policies is essential to ensure a smooth experience. These guidelines are designed to enhance security, comply with legal standards, and accommodate diverse needs. Policies may vary slightly by event, so always check the official UTEP Special Events website or event-specific details for updates. This guide covers key areas in depth, drawing from official sources to help you prepare.

Accessibility

The Don Haskins Center is committed to providing an inclusive environment in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Wheelchair-accessible seating is available throughout the arena, including designated sections with companion seats for attendants. These seats are designed for patrons using wheelchairs or those with limited mobility who can transfer but require step-free access. ADA floor seats may be offered depending on the event setup. For visual or hearing impairments, seats with clear sightlines are provided, and accommodations like American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters can be arranged with at least two weeks’ advance notice by contacting (915) 747-5481 or [email protected], including proof of ticket purchase. Accessible entrances include the East Gate (via pathway from Mesa 1 lot or Glory Road garage), North Gate (ramp from Sun Bowl 8 or Mesa 1 lots), and West Gate. The South Gate is not ADA-accessible. Designated parking is available in lots SB8 and ME1 on a first-come, first-served basis for vehicles with valid ADA placards or plates. Restrooms feature accessible stalls in the main concourse and entrances, with floor-level options requiring a security escort if needed. In emergencies, evacuation routes include a tunnel ramp for wheelchairs and a staff-assisted wheelchair lift in the Gordon Family Courtside Club. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early to secure accommodations and inform staff of any specific needs upon entry for a seamless experience.

Animals & Service Dogs

Animals are generally prohibited to maintain a safe and hygienic environment, but service animals are welcomed under ADA guidelines. These must be trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities and remain leashed or harnessed at all times. Service animals are permitted to rest in the patron’s seating area and accompany them throughout the venue. If a guest needs to take the animal outside for relief, they must first consult a Guest Services Supervisor for approval and re-entry procedures. Service dogs in training are allowed in some contexts, such as at Sun Bowl Stadium events, but for Don Haskins Center, confirmation with venue staff is advised. Pets, emotional support animals, or therapy animals not qualifying as service animals under ADA are not permitted. This policy ensures minimal disruption while supporting accessibility. Violators may be asked to leave, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals to avoid fines or ejection.

Age Requirements

Age policies at Don Haskins Center vary by event type but emphasize safety and legal compliance. For basketball games and most events, children under two years old may sit on an adult’s lap without a ticket. Children two and older require a valid ticket and must occupy their assigned seat. Concerts or special events may have stricter rules, such as minimum age limits (e.g., 18+ for certain performances), so check event listings. Alcohol consumption is restricted to those 21 and older, per Texas law, with ID checks at purchase points. Minors found with alcohol face ejection and potential legal consequences. Family-friendly events encourage adult supervision for younger attendees, and car seats or strollers are prohibited to prevent hazards in crowded areas. These rules promote a secure atmosphere, reducing risks associated with unsupervised minors.

Bag Policy

To expedite entry and enhance security, Don Haskins Center enforces a clear bag policy for all events. Allowed bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (e.g., Ziploc), and small clutch purses up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ (clear or opaque, with or without straps). These can be carried separately or inside a clear bag. Exceptions include medically necessary bags, which are subject to inspection and approval at entry. Diaper bags may be permitted if clear and within size limits, but confirmation is recommended for family events. Non-clear backpacks, large totes, or coolers are prohibited and must be returned to vehicles. This policy, implemented for safety, reduces screening times and minimizes hidden threats. Tips: Opt for minimal items to speed up lines, and consider leaving bags at home for hassle-free access.

Entry and Security

Entry procedures prioritize safety with mandatory screenings for all guests. Doors typically open one to two hours before events, with ADA-accessible entrances at East, North, and West gates. Security inspects bags, jackets, and containers; prohibited items must be discarded or stored off-site, as no storage is provided. Re-entry is allowed with a valid scanned ticket via designated lanes. A fan code of conduct enforces zero tolerance for disruptive behavior, including harassment or intoxication, potentially leading to ejection without refund. Firearms and weapons are banned, creating an exclusion zone. Arrive early to avoid queues, and cooperate with staff for efficient processing. These measures ensure a secure environment, especially during high-attendance events like graduations or concerts.

Food, Drink & Alcohol

Outside food and beverages are prohibited to support venue concessions and maintain cleanliness, with exceptions for medical needs or special diets (e.g., baby formula), subject to inspection. One sealed plastic water bottle or empty Hydro Flask per person is allowed. Inside, concessions offer items like hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and Pepsi products. Alcohol is available to those 21+ at designated vending areas, with purchases limited to avoid overconsumption. No outside alcohol is permitted, and violations result in confiscation or ejection. This policy aligns with health and safety standards, encouraging responsible enjoyment. For events, note that glass containers are banned to prevent injuries.

Payment Options

The venue accepts various payment methods for tickets, concessions, and parking. Tickets can be bought via Ticketmaster online, by phone (accepting MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover), or in-person at the Eisenberg Family Ticket Office with cash, checks, or cards. Game-day sales occur at East end windows, opening two hours before tipoff. Concessions and merchandise typically accept major credit/debit cards and cash. Parking in lots like GR2 and SB7 costs $15 per game, payable by credit card on-site. Mobile payments may be available for digital tickets. To avoid delays, have payment ready and consider digital wallets for contactless transactions.

Photography and Recording

Personal photography is allowed with non-professional cameras (lenses under 4 inches) for editorial or personal use only. Professional cameras, tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and drones are prohibited to prevent distractions and protect performer rights. Video recording is restricted unless authorized, and commercial use requires UTEP permission. For media, credentials must be obtained in advance. These rules safeguard intellectual property and ensure unobstructed views. Attendees should respect others by avoiding flash during performances.

Prohibited Items

A comprehensive list of prohibited items enhances safety: aerosol cans, artificial noisemakers, balloons, bats/poles/sticks, car seats/strollers, coolers, large camera lenses, e-cigarettes, firearms/fireworks, flags on poles, glass bottles, illegal drugs, laser pointers, outside food/drinks (with exceptions), projectiles, tobacco products, tripods/selfie sticks, umbrellas, unauthorized drones, water bottles (beyond permitted), weapons, and any risky objects. Items must be discarded or returned to vehicles; UTEP may confiscate them. This policy prevents hazards in crowded settings. Check event-specific lists, as additions like confetti may apply.

Smoking Policy

The Don Haskins Center and UTEP campus are 100% smoke-free and tobacco-free, including electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. Smoking is prohibited indoors and outdoors within venue grounds to promote health and comply with university regulations. Designated smoking areas do not exist; patrons must exit the property. Violations lead to warnings or ejection. This strict policy supports a clean, allergen-free environment for all.