Owls have 1st home opener in 4 years

For the first time since FAU Stadium’s inaugural game in 2012, Florida Atlantic will open its football season at home when the Owls host Southern Illinois on Saturday at 6 p.m.

“I love that we have a home game for our fans,” coach Charlie Partridge said. “I’m just excited for our fans that we have eight [games] in Florida and start with a home game.”

Since joining Division I-A (now the Football Bowl Subdivision) in 2004, FAU is 4-8 in season openers, though it has won both at home. The Owls beat Middle Tennessee in 2007 and Wagner in 2012.

Partridge announced festivities in the lead up to Saturday’s game. FAU students will hold a “nocturnal tailgate” Friday night from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. in Lot 5. On Saturday, parking lots will open at 2 p.m., four hours before game time.

Parking is $15 on game day, but can be purchased in advance for $12. Shuttles will be available to take fans from the parking lot to the stadium and back, beginning two hours before the game and ending one hour after it finishes.

FAU also changed its bag policy for entering the stadium. Small clutch bags (approximately the size of a hand) will be allowed with a clear plastic bag that cannot exceed12 inches by six inches by12 inches.

The Owl Walk, where the band and cheerleaders welcome the teamto the north side of the stadium, is scheduled for 3:55 p.m.