Well, what a topic! Getting a field pass to an NFL game sounds like a dream come true to me! I mean, there’s so much good stuff to do on the field – t-shirt tossing freebies, pre-game warm ups, post-game locker room interviews, the list goes on! But how in the world do you get your hands on a field pass? Let me take you through the process so you can feel like a VIP when it comes to NFL games.
First things first, you’re gonna need some connections. The field pass lottery isn’t too common for the big games, and you’re far more likely to score one through a hookup from a team official, or even a trusted member of the media. If that’s not an option though, it’s time to start digging up some dough! The price tag on these puppies can be pretty hefty, especially for those of us on a tight budget. I’ve seen them go as high as $1,000!
Second, take your time in researching game schedules and finding the best dates for your field pass. Going during a rivalry or rivalry-adjacent game, or even a divisional game, will increase your chances of getting a pass since these are often considered “bigger” games. And if you’re a season ticket holder, that’s even better, since you may have priority access to the highly coveted field passes!
Third, be ready to wait – especially if you’re going the retail route. Teams usually aren’t super quick to release tickets, so keep your eyes peeled on their social media and newsletter accounts, since that’s where you’ll hear the first news. Then the waiting game will begin: You’ll make a bid, wait, and hope your offer was accepted. Finally, the moment of truth – did you get what you wanted, or was it already scooped up by someone else?
Fourth, be prepared to show proper identification. Usually you’ll be asked to flash a driver’s license or another form of government-issued ID in order to show the team that you are who you say you are. And sometimes a designation of a ‘glorified security guard’ may tag along with you to make sure you don’t do anything crazy on the field that could harm yourself or anyone else. So, don’t go onto the field looking to high five your favorite player – respect the rules or risk having your field pass revoked.
Fifth, scout out the team store and pick up some gear. Your field pass isn’t complete without the jersey or t-shirt that goes along with it, and you can guarantee the store will be the best place to find it. While you’re there, pick up something special from the team shop, since these can be great souvenirs from a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Sixth, make sure you know any guidelines in place before you step out onto the field. Some teams require you to wait in line outside the playing field area, so be sure to check with your contacts before making any moves. Give yourself plenty of time, too – some teams will only allow access to certain areas for a certain amount of time. That means you’ll have to hustle if you want to see all the action!
Lastly, be sure to tell your friends and family “thank you” for helping you make this happen. With gifts, donations, guidance and support, they’ve made your dream to get there a reality. Make sure to include them in your photos and adventures, and give them a chance to inspire others with their own field pass stories.
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After you’ve gotten the pass, the real fun begins! You’ll be able to walk out onto the field with your jersey on and your head held high, ready to enjoy the game with thousands of other fans in the stands. It’ll be a unique experience to be right next to the players, and you won’t ever forget that feeling when you capture that first touchdown on the sidelines!
Even if you can’t always get a field pass for each game, there are still plenty of other ways to enjoy the NFL at the stadium. If you know someone who has season tickets, you could always sweet talk them into giving you their extra seat for a game. Or you can splurge for the nosebleeds – you won’t be as close to the action, but the fuzzy view of the game may be just a fun.
Whatever you decide to do, be sure to bring your camera and capture the moment! Sitting in the stadium with your friends and family is one of the most special ways to enjoy the NFL, and if you get a chance to get onto the field, make sure to take a bunch of pictures with your fantastic view of the field in the background.
Another really great option would be to search for NFL package deals. Hotels and travel sites often bundle tickets and tickets with accommodation so you can really save some money in the long run and make a mini-vacation out of it!
Getting access to a field can be really tricky, so if you don’t score a field pass, don’t despair. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the game – from the tailgate parties, to standing in the stadium with thousands of other fans, to even watching it from your living room!
With the right contacts and resources, you never know when you might score a field pass to enjoy the experience up close and personal. Be prepared, and have patience, and hopefully you’ll get the field pass of your dreams!