The NFL's new All Clear Policy. Go Carolina Panthers!

Although my favorite sport is baseball, every so often I need a football fix. I usually get it watching my favorite college team, the Canes. I went to school in Miami so I feel loyal to team. Bu it's a little different when it comes to regular football.

I grew up in Los Angeles so I was a Rams fan but then they moved and then the Raiders moved and then I just stopped following them. In Miami, I tried following the Dolphins but since I had a college team I didn't latch onto them. And now that I live in North Carolina, I am partial to the Carolina Panthers. Yes, I am very fickle when it comes to football.


This year, we decided we would head over to Charlotte for a long weekend and take in a Carolina Panthers game and also take in some of Charlotte's sites. We love doing short trips during the school year since hubby works and doesn't have that much time off.

But when I heard about the NFL's new policy on not allowing purses or backpacks into the stadium, I was not happy. I think the reason is because my purse is like another appendage. I cannot live without my purse. I take it everywhere and the only time I am not attached to it is when I am at home. But even then, it is close by. How can I not have my wallet, money, lip gloss, business cards, mints and all the other junk that seems to accumulate, right?

I could not imagine attending a NFL game without my purse. But once I thought more and more about it, it
made perfect sense. I understand the safety concerns that the NFL has. Since the Boston Marathon bombing, I think many of us have concerns when attending large events with thousands of people. I know that I am always vigilant when attending big events. I am more vigilant now.

With so many people in one place, it is a tempting place to do bad things. That is why when I thought about the new NFL policy, it made sense to me. They NFL is only doing what they believe is the right thing. And, I appreciate that. They are following what is in place for other stadiums and also college stadiums as well. Plus, I realized that the NFL had banned coolers and backpacks in 2001, which also made sense.

It might seem a little harsh to purse loving women like me but if I have to get my bags checked at the airport, Disney and other places, it is not a big deal. Plus, you can buy a clear bag and bring in all the stuff in your purse. Many teams are also providing clear bags and bag-check facilities as well. My favorite part is that the NFL is selling the cutest little clear bags that have your team logo on them!

So, I guess now I have to go shopping and buy a new bag for myself, right? I can't wait. The Carolina Panther bag is adorable! Plus, the bags are a great size. I think I can manage to fit everything in my purse now into the new All Clear teams bags. YAY!

In a post 9/11 world, we must make sacrifices in order to be safe. If that means buying a new cute clear bag to go see a football game, so be it! I would definitely rather be safe than sorry and I am glad the NFL is being proactive.

What do you think about the new policy? Follow me on Twitter @carogonza and join in on the discussion about the new #NFLAllCLear policy. On August 28th there will be a Twitter Party with The Online Mom. Join us at 9:00 EST and let us know what you think about the new All Clear policy. We would love to hear your thoughts!!

Disclosure: I am an ambassador for the #NFLAllClear campaign. This is a sponsored post but all opinions are mine.