The Seattle Seahawks announced a plan on Thursday to crack down on “illegal and unruly” fan behavior. In a statement released by the team, they said there would be undercover law enforcement officers disguised as opposing fans scattered throughout the stadium during NFL home games at Lumen Field.
The stated goal of this effort was so that police officers could “quickly detect guests violating the fan code of conduct.” This is to ensure that “all fans can enjoy the game,” stating that “law enforcement and Lumen Field event staff will proactively intervene” to prevent these behaviors.
The Seahawks are famous for their active and rowdy home fans. Designated the “12s” for being the metaphorical 12th man on the field for Seattle, Lumen Field is a famously tough place to play. Clearly, team officials and stadium staff feel the need to work more proactively to combat disruption.
The Official Statement From the Seattle Seahawks
Steph Chambers/GettySEATTLE, WASHINGTON – DECEMBER 22: Fans cheer during the game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Minnesota Vikings at Lumen Field on December 22, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Below is a transcript of the full statement released by the Seahawks official account:
“The Seahawks announced today that undercover law enforcement officers will wear opposing team jerseys at home games this season in an effort to quickly detect guests violating the fan code of conduct. Law enforcement and Lumen Field event staff will proactively intervene to support an environment where all fans free from the following behaviors, including:
- Behavior that is unruly, disruptive or illegal in nature
- Over-intoxication or other signs of alcohol or substance impairment
- Offensive language or obscene gestures, to include the use of such language or gestures concerning a person’s race, ethnicity, color, gender, religion, creed, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or natural origin; or to instigate, incite or encourage a confrontation or physical assault
- Interference with the progress of the game (including throwing objects onto the field)
- Failing to follow instructions of stadium personnel
- Verbal or physical harassment of home or opposing team fans
- Smoking/vaping, tobacco or marijuana use on Lumen Field property
- Solicitation or sale of any merchandise, tickets, food or beverage on Lumen Field property
- Unauthorized entry into the field of play or other restricted areas, interfering with the progress of any game or event, attempting any physical contact with an event participant, and/or any other disorderly conduct deemed dangerous
Fans can anonymously report any inappropriate activity that is disrupting their enjoyment during the game by texting to HAWK12 (429512)
How Will the New-Look Seahawks Perform This Season?
The Seahawks underwent significant changes this offseason. Out are QB Geno Smith and WR D.K. Metcalf, both traded away. In is new QB Sam Darnold, signed away from Minnesota, where he enjoyed a breakout season last year. Additionally, they signed former Rams WR Cooper Kupp to pair with WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, forming a new duo at receiver.
Smith and Metcalf were good players, but they weren’t leading Seattle to the heights they wanted to reach. This is a bet that some new personnel, new blood in the locker room, can spark a talented roster. The Seahawks defense is loaded, the question is just if the offense can keep up.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Seahawks Issue Warning to Lumen Field Fans Ahead of Week 1 appeared first on Heavy Sports.