Proposed bill would allow beer sales at Gopher hockey, basketball games

These guys need more beer. Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

Following a successful inaugural year of beer sales at TCF Bank Stadium following a discussion at the state capitol last year, one state lawmaker wants to expand the flow of beer to Mariucci and Williams arenas.

Rep. Dan Schoen of St Paul Park introduced a bill on Thursday that would make beer available for purchase at Gopher hockey and basketball games.

While alcohol sales have been restricted to premium seats at either arenas in the past, if the bill is passed, beer would be made available for all attendees over the age of 21.

The university collected more than $900,000 from beer sales at TCF Bank Stadium in the fall and opening it up to basketball and hockey home games would be a treasure trove for the university.

Nearly everyone around the University of Minnesota has a story that goes something along the lines of being too drunk at a Gopher event and yada yada (no where as bad as this story, I can guarantee you that), but thanks to a rather tamed crowd this past season at TCF Bank Stadium, lawmaker Schoen feels that an expansion is in the works.

“Armageddon did not happen,” were the words that were used to describe the 2012 Gopher football season. While fans could argue differently about the outcome of the season, I suppose what he’s saying about beer and Gopher fans last is true.

Although considering the steep price of beer at TCF Bank Stadium and how far the beer gardens were located from the student section (props to you, University of Minnesota) and multiple that with how awful the Gophers were in 2012, I can’t say I’m too surprised Armageddon did not happen.

Opponents of the bill will argue that allowing sales at basketball and hockey games will only open a flood gate of more alcohol sales at other campus events  — “What’s next? Graduation?”

Just kidding, as I doubt anybody would actually say that, but nevertheless, fans will definitely come out victories as I would be surprised if the arenas stay dry for another season.