University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Athletics
STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU-WAOW) — The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is one step closer to alcohol sales at sporting events, after a city meeting Wednesday night.
The Board of Parks Commissioners greenlit a plan to sell beer at football games at Goerke Park, and hockey games at K.B. Willet Arena, both city-owned properties.
University leaders have been working with local and university police to prevent alcohol-related incidents from affecting the fan experience. Brad Duckworth, athletic director for UW-SP, said their research has shown that alcohol sales may actually make the fan experience better.
“What we saw out of Madison was that actually, alcohol related incidents, whether it was arrests or alcohol related illnesses in Camp Randall decreased as soon as they started selling alcohol,” said Duckworth.
He said access to alcohol at the event itself likely cuts down on the amount of binge drinking before the event, or people working to sneak liquor into the event.
He said ultimately, revenue generation and fan experience are driving this decision.
Now that they have the green light from the city, university leaders will continue to work through safety plans, getting the appropriate licensing, and ensuring enough security is available for these events.
If they decide to move forward with the plan, they’ll begin selling alcohol at sporting events this fall. Duckworth said it will likely be for all sporting events on campus.
Duckworth said if they move forward, they’ll see how this year goes, then report back to the city next year with results and to talk about future plans.
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