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‘What’s Your Game Plan’ added to JMU, VCU sporting events to encourage sober driving

Rebecca Barnabi
car keys beside glass of whiskey
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The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and DRIVE SMART Virginia are adding the athletic departments of JMU and VCU to the ‘What’s Your Game Plan’ sober driving outreach campaign.

The partnership kicked off Thursday at JMU’s Atlantic Union Bank Center.

“Planning ahead for a night out is a must,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We are so grateful to DRIVE SMART, VCU and JMU for joining us in reminding sports fans that a sober ride home needs to be a part of their game day game plan.”

The ‘What’s Your Game Plan: Choose a Sober Driver and Buckle Up’ campaign highlights the need to plan ahead for a safe and sober ride after events where alcohol may be involved. Targeting college sports fans offers a great opportunity to raise awareness and encourage responsible choices.

“At every game, fans bring the passion and energy that make sporting events unforgettable. We want to ensure they get home safely after the final whistle,” Kristin Pettway, Executive Director of DRIVE SMART Virginia, said. “Whether you’re tailgating with friends or celebrating a win, having a plan for a designated driver means you can enjoy the moment without worry.”

The partnership was curated by JMU Sports Properties and VCU Sports Properties, the local, dedicated Learfield teams representing James Madison University and Virginia Commonwealth University, respectively.

The partnership marks the first time the ‘What’s Your Game Plan’ campaign will be introduced at JMU and its return to VCU, delivering the message of safe and responsible driving to both campuses during their sporting events.

“We are proud to amplify such a vital message to our respective fan bases. We want everyone to enjoy their game day traditions responsibly and this campaign is going to provide a constant reminder to plan ahead,” VCU Sports Properties General Manager Erik Lowery said.

Rebecca Barnabi

Rebecca Barnabi

Rebecca J. Barnabi is the national editor of Augusta Free Press. A graduate of the University of Mary Washington, she began her journalism career at The Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star. In 2013, she was awarded first place for feature writing in the Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia Awards Program, and was honored by the Virginia School Boards Association’s 2019 Media Honor Roll Program for her coverage of Waynesboro Schools. Her background in newspapers includes writing about features, local government, education and the arts.