Notre Dame Stadium is expanding its guest services this season with a new sensory room designed for fans who need a break from the noise and crowd energy. The initiative is a partnership between Notre Dame and LOGAN Community Resources, Inc.
Positioned off the upper east concourse near Section 108 in Corbett Family Hall, the space offers a calm, quiet setting during home football games. The room opens 90 minutes before kickoff, when stadium gates open, and stays open through the end of the third quarter. LOGAN staff will be on hand to support visitors alongside comfort K9s from the Notre Dame Police Department.
"Gameday at Notre Dame is electric, but for guests with sensory processing needs, that intensity can become overwhelming," said Lee Sicinski, executive director of University Events. "Partnering with LOGAN lets us offer a dedicated space where fans and families can step away, reset, and return to enjoy the game. Our goal is to make sure every member of our campus and visiting community feels welcome."
In partnership with LOGAN and the Notre Dame Psychology Department, the University curated sensory-friendly rooms inside Notre Dame Stadium through a generous gift from '97 graduate Mike DeBiasi and his wife, Gretchen. Inspired by their son Alex, who is on the autism spectrum and finds the game day environment overwhelming, these dedicated spaces now offer a welcoming space for any fan struggling with sensory overload.
"For more than 70 years, LOGAN has worked to remove barriers and empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead full and meaningful lives. Partnering with Notre Dame allows us to extend that mission by providing resources, support, and accommodations that ensure every fan can experience the unforgettable tradition of Notre Dame Football," said Christina Tembo, chief marketing officer at LOGAN.
The Sensory Room was created primarily to support individuals with sensory processing disorders, autism, and other conditions that can make sensory input such as noise, lights, and crowds especially challenging to regulate. While many fans may occasionally feel overwhelmed by the excitement and energy of a game, the room is intended as an accommodation for those with ongoing sensory needs. Because space is limited, we prioritize access for individuals who rely on this type of environment as a support for their disability or sensory condition.
For fans who prefer to stay in their seats, sensory bags packed with noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools remain available for checkout at Guest Services booths throughout the stadium.
For more information about stadium accessibility and services, click here.