Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are going to the annual cross-city rivalry game

MADISON – Tonight marks one of most anticipated sporting events of the year in Madison, the annual Madison Bowl. The cross-rivalry football game pits Madison high schools Bob Jones and James Clemens against each other at Madison City Stadium.

Kickoff for The Madison Bowl is at 7 p.m.

“We are blessed in Madison to have two of the best high schools in Alabama,” stated Madison City Schools (MCS) superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols. “This will be an exciting evening for MCS and the Madison community when our two teams compete.”

Last year, the James Clemens Jets dominated the match-up with a 40-13 win. This year, the Patriots are coming into the contest after opening the 2024 season with two blow-out wins over Cullman and Lee, 48-12 and 63-7 respectively. The Jets played one game, a close 17-10 win over Gardendale on Aug. 23. They were off last week.

In a message to students and fans Thursday evening, Nichols shared some information and guidelines for the game tonight.

“While rivalries are fun, I would like to emphasize the importance of kindness, patience, and sportsmanship by those who attend all of our athletic events,” he said. “These wonderful athletic events are a time to focus on the young people playing, cheering, and performing.”

Nichols stated the parking lot area will open at 4 p.m. and the gates will open at 5 p.m. Any tents or tailgating will be designated to the west side of the parking area next to Garner St. After the game begins, entry into and exit from the stadium will take place via the home gate only.  The home gate will take tickets that are purchased for the entire length of the game. There will be no free admittance during the game.

Nichols added that spectators and students need to be aware of the following MCS Stadium guidelines:

• Only small purses, diaper bags, and medical bags are allowed. MCS currently does not have a clear bag policy. Spectators with oversized bags may be denied entry. All bags are subject to search. No coolers are allowed.
• No knives, guns or any other weapons are allowed on MCS property.
• Tobacco, drugs, alcohol and vaping devices are prohibited on MCS property.
• Spectators must keep walkways in the stadium area clear. Private security guards will assist in keeping the elevated walkways and railings clear.
• No running or ball-tossing inside the stadium.
• Spectators will not be allowed field access without appropriate credentials.
• Spectators who leave the stadium will have to repay admission to return to the stadium.
• MCS students attending the games are subject to the MCS Code of Student Conduct.
• Parents of elementary and middle school students are strongly encouraged to attend the game with their children. If not, please ensure that an adult at the game will accompany and serve as an emergency contact.
• Spectators are asked to be respectful and follow stadium guidelines. Those who cause problems will be asked to leave the stadium/property and will not be given a refund or allowed to return.

Be sure to check www.themadisonrecord.com and The Madison Record Facebook page after the game and this weekend as we post stories about the game and photos.