Drake University Athletics

Fans can take the ramp to either get to the concession stand and or down to behind home plate.

Fans are not permitted to bring alcohol into or out of Ron Buel Field. Alcoohl is not sold during Drake softball games.

All Drake softball home games are streamed on ESPN+ ($)

The concession stand is located near the restrooms on the 3B/LF side of the field closest to Drake Stadium.

Drake Athletics reserves the right to eject any patron(s) found violating Ron Buel Field policies or participating in behavior that is considered unsportsmanlike, unruly or illegal and patron(s) will be escorted out by event staff.

It is essential for Drake University to be prepared for any major catastrophe or natural disaster which may arise during an event held at Ron Buel Field. Please follow the lead of Drake Athletics Staff should an emergency occur. 

Drake University and Drake Athletics are committed to providing a safe, comfortable and enjoyable event experience for all fans and event participants. The Fan Code of Conduct sets clear expectations and encourages an event environment that is enjoyable for all. We strive to promote good sportsmanship, and that includes appropriate fan behavior.

We ask all fans to adhere to the following Fan Code of Conduct for Drake Athletic events to meet these goals:

• Abusive language or disorderly conduct is unacceptable and unwelcome
• Profanity, racial or sexist comments, or intimidating actions will not be tolerated
• Fans shall not interfere unduly with anyone else's right and opportunity to enjoy the event
• Fans may not go onto the playing field or throw any items onto the playing area or possess prohibited items. Violation may result in immediate ejection and arrest and prosecution
• Offensive or obscene messages on signs or clothing will not be permitted.
• Fans shall be courteous to visiting teams and guests.
• Fans shall comply with the directions and instructions of all Drake University staff and gameday personnel regarding operations and emergency response procedures.
• Fans shall be treated professionally and courteously by all Drake University staff and gameday personnel.

During games, contact the nearest Game Operations staff member or text or call our Guest Help Line at (515) 271-DOGS(3647) if another fan is interfering with your enjoyment of the game. Following the game, please contact us at guestservices@drake.edu if you would like to report inappropriate fan behavior.

Drake Students are considered representatives of the University and are therefore subject to the Code of Student Conduct as well as the Fan Code of Conduct while attending any sporting event.

Fans not adhering to the Fan Code of Conduct provisions may be subject to ejection without refund and may also be subject arrest and prosecution.

Please reach out to guestservices@drake.edu with any lost and found requests.

Parents/guardians with a lost child should contact the nearest Drake Athletics staff member on site.

All media personnel must display valid credentials to access Ron Buel Field and the designated media areas. Credentials must be requested in advance through either Jack Bluhm (jack.bluhm@drake.edu) or Dave Shindelar (david.shindelar@drake.edu), who will provide additional details regarding pickup.

Please reach out to Colin Salig (colin.salig@drake.edu, opens in new tab, opens in new tab) if interested in singing the national anthem.

Please contact the nearest usher or event staff member if you are in need a nursing room.

Outside food or beverage is prohibited inside Ron Buel Field.

Fans may park in Lot 4 and Lot 17. Additional parking can be found HERE.

The use of cameras is permitted inside Ron Buel Field. Camera bags and equipment not conforming to the clear bag policy guidelines are prohibited (see prohibited items). Game action may not be filmed.

The following items are not permitted inside of Ron Buel Field:

• Coolers and Containers
• Outside Food and Drink 
• Alcoholic Beverages, drugs, illegal substances, or any paraphernalia associated with drug use
• Smoking or Vaping 
• Fireworks
• Sport Equipment 
• Firearms or Weapons of any kind
• Umbrellas
• Lawn Chairs (Exception of seatbacks or cushions up to 18" wide)
• Pets (excluding service animals)
• Artificial Noisemakers

Restrooms are located by the concession stand on the 3B/LF side of the playing field at Ron Buel Field.

Please reach out to a Drake ushers or an event staff member should any issues arise.

Guide dogs, service dogs, and service dogs in training are permitted inside Ron Buel Field.  Emotional support and all other pets are prohibited. 

Drake University is a smoke and vape-free campus.

For non-game day events such as private parties, corporate meetings, networking events, banquets, cocktail receptions etc. Please fill out the Facilities Request Form HERE, opens in new tab

• Tailgating is limited to Lot 4 only.
• Access to Lot 4 for tailgating is allowed no earlier than 3 hours prior to game time, as space allows.
• One space per car/tailgate
• Tents may not be larger larger than 10'x10'
• Do not block paths for other vehicles or access to stalls
• No professional sound systems, DJ booths, or amplified speakers without prior written approval. Small “boom boxes” are allowed but must stay under 70 decibels and be contained within your tailgate area.
• Remove all trash and dispose of it before leaving.
• No kegs, beer balls, or hard alcohol are permitted at any time
• Under 21: No alcohol allowed on university property.
• Only cars, pickups, SUVs, and RVs with restrooms are allowed in standard lots.
• RVs must not exceed 24 feet in length and 8'6" in width.
• No pull-behind trailers or smokers.
• Travel lanes must remain clear; tailgating equipment must be moved out of them.
• Tailgaters must comply with all university and public safety policies while on site.
•  Liquid Propane and charcoal grills and LP heaters are permitted in parking lots. Do not place used charcoal, embers, or ash in trash cans, under trees, or leave it in the parking areas: it must all be taken off site with you. Empty canisters/tanks must also be removed. LP grills or heaters are limited to one 20# LP cylinder per device; no spare or additional cylinders will be allowed. All heaters or heated devices must be used according to manufacturer directions, and adequate spacing must be maintained around the heat source(s). Open wood fires or wood fires enclosed in a portable fire pit are not permitted.
• Restrictions: Alcohol use may be restricted at the discretion of Drake leadership, Athletics, Drake Public Safety, or local law enforcement.
• The right to tailgate may be revoked at any time for non-compliance, safety concerns, or operational needs.

Softball is a non-ticketed sport with the exception of hosting championships.

One factory sealed water bottle is permitted inside Ron Buel Field. Water fountains are available on both the 3B/LF side next to the restrooms.