Attending a Pittsburgh Steelers game at Acrisure Stadium can be an enjoyable experience for any fan. However, for fans with disabilities, navigating the stadium and enjoying the full gameday atmosphere can require some additional planning and preparation. This article provides tips and strategies for maximizing the gameday experience for Steeler fans with various disabilities. With a little forethought and the right tools, disabled fans can partake in all the action and traditions of Steeler Nation.
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Pittsburgh Steelers fans wave their Terrible Towels aggressively as Styx famous song, Renegade plays during a home game at then-Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA.
Getting to the Stadium
Transportation to and from the stadium deserves special consideration for fans with limited mobility. Driving and finding accessible parking close to stadium entrances is ideal, but not always possible. Taking advantage of paratransit services like Access and Port Authority's ACCESS service can be a good option for fans who qualify. For fans staying downtown, Pittsburgh's light rail system has wheelchair-accessible stops near the stadium. Just be sure to allow plenty of extra time when using public transportation.
The stadium parking lots open 4 hours before kickoff, so arrive early to get a space close to the stadium. Acrisure Stadium has accessible parking in Lots 1A, 1B, 5A, and 5B. These spots are wider, have extra space beside them, and connect directly to accessible routes to stadium gates. Make sure to have your accessible parking permit clearly displayed. If you arrive late and accessible spots are taken, ask parking attendants for help in locating the accessible overflow parking.
Navigating the Stadium
Once at Acrisure Stadium, fans with mobility limitations should seek out elevator and escalator options for accessing different levels of the stadium. Elevators are positioned at Gate A for club and suite patrons and at Gate D for general ticket holders. Consult an upper-level stadium map ahead of time to identify elevator locations nearest your seat.
Ushers at all gates can also direct fans with disabilities to the best routes, seating areas, and amenities. Don't hesitate to ask them for guidance navigating the stadium or finding accessible restrooms and concession stands. It is a good idea to scope out the stadium layout online before gameday to feel more confident getting around.
For blind or low-vision fans, Acrisure Stadium offers a sensory tour of the stadium 2 hours before kickoff at each home game. Sensory tours allow fans to touch and feel their way through different areas to become familiar with the environment. Contact the Steelers disability services hotline in advance to sign up for sensory tours.
Hearing Enhancements
Steeler fans with hearing loss have options for enhancing their gameday listening experience. Acrisure Stadium has an assistive listening system that broadcasts audio from the public address announcer directly into hearing aids equipped with T-coils. This provides direct audio transmission without the distracting sounds of the crowd.
Fans whose hearing aids lack T-coils can request special headsets from guest services that interface with the stadium's FM assistive listening system. These headsets block out environmental noise for clearer transmission of announcements, music, and in-game commentary. Just remember to bring an ID to leave as a deposit when borrowing an assistive listening headset.
Some other good advice for hearing-impaired fans is to avoid seats directly below the loudspeakers, favoring sides of the stadium instead. This avoids audio distortion from proximity. Fans who read lips should try to sit closer to the field facing the sidelines to have a direct view. Consider bringing binoculars as well for better visibility. Also, don't forget extra batteries for your hearing aids! The excited cheering and loud stadium atmosphere can drain batteries faster.
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Brett Keisel, a former defensive end for the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers, interacts with Steelers fans with his mobile device before a game in Seattle on Sunday, November 29.
Enjoying the Action
While navigating Acrisure Stadium and hearing public announcements are important, the game itself is the main event. Visually impaired fans can still enjoy play-by-play action through vivid radio commentary. The Steelers Radio Network, led by Rob King, provides exciting narration of on-field highlights. Bring a portable radio and earbuds to tune into plays as they happen.
Likewise, deaf fans can still experience the intensity of Steelers game days through visual cues. Watch for reactions from other fans to gauge excitement levels and big moments. Study player body language and referees' signals to interpret unfolding plays. And feel the rumble of the crowd during key defensive stands. With a little extra awareness, the thrill of Steelers football transcends the roar of the fans.
Food and Merchandise
Concession stands and team stores at Acrisure Stadium need to be accessible for all fans. Look for designated accessible concession windows with lowered counters. These allow wheelchair users to easily order food and drinks. If you have trouble waiting in long lines, ask a companion to order for you while you grab a table. Also, consider downloading the Acrisure Stadium app, which allows mobile ordering and delivery to your seat for select locations.
The stadium's main Pro Shop in the Highmark Gate lobby is wheelchair friendly, with wide aisles and merchandise within reach. Satellite merchandise kiosks around the stadium also offer accessibility. If you attend a game with a large crowd, shop early before popular items sell out. Special event merchandise like retro jerseys and playoff tees tend to go fast.
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Companion Seating
Having a companion, family member or friend join you at the game can provide needed assistance navigating the stadium. Acrisure Stadium offers flexible ticketing options to accommodate disabled fans and their companions. Certain sections have removable and folding companion seats for easy transitions between sitting and standing. There are also wheelchair seating platforms with adjoining companion seats available in the lower bowl.
When purchasing accessible seating tickets, you can request a companion seat directly adjacent. Specify any special needs like aisle seating or being close to amenities. Companions can help with mobility and listening assistance, food orders, gear shopping, and enjoying the gameday excitement together. Just be sure to only request the accommodations needed so other disabled fans can access companion seating as well.
Attending Pittsburgh Steelers games allows disabled fans to fully participate in the camaraderie and traditions of Steeler Nation. While getting to the stadium and navigating the facilities presents challenges, being proactive with transportation, seating choices, and listening devices can ensure an enjoyable experience. Most importantly, focusing on the sensory elements you can best interact with, whether auditory or visual, allows you to engage with the energy and excitement on the field.
