Submitted by Mark Mitchell, Ph.D*, Robert D. Montgomery, Ph.D*<\/p>\n
1* Department of Marketing and Resort Tourism, Coastal Carolina University, Conway, South Carolina 29528<\/p>\n
2* Department of Marketing, University of Evansville, Evansville, Indiana 47722<\/p>\n
Mark Mitchell, DBA is Professor of Marketing and Chair of the Department of Marketing and Resort Tourism at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC.<\/p>\n
Robert D. Montgomery, DBA is Professor of Marketing at the University of Evansville in Evansville, IN.<\/p>\n
Abstract<\/strong><\/p>\n This manuscript examines the issue of in-stadium alcohol sales for collegiate sporting events. In the past decade, there has been an increase in the number of Division I FBS football programs allowing alcohol sales in their stadiums. While it is currently not the norm (25% do allow it, 75% do not allow it), the number is increasing. And, others allow alcohol sales in premium seats as well other smaller venue sports (such as baseball and basketball). This manuscript examines: (1) the reasons collegiate athletic departments might consider allowing in-stadium alcohol sales, (2) the mitigating constraints that may cause them to not allow its availability, and (3) a look a current \u2018best practices\u2019 among institutions that currently allow in-stadium alcohol sales.<\/p>\n Key words: <\/strong>in-stadium alcohol sales, beer sales, fan experience, tailgating.<\/p>\n Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n STATE U needed to renovate its on-campus baseball facility. To do so, STATE U was able to play its college baseball games at a nearby Minor League Baseball Stadium. While at the off-campus stadium, fans at the STATE U games were able to buy beer from stadium concessions. The availability of beer\/wine sales at the stadium may have increased the appeal for some fans, particularly community members seeking a relaxing day at the ballpark. Now, as renovations are being completed, STATE U will be back on-campus. STATE U must now address two very important questions:<\/p>\n 1. Is STATE U interested in selling alcohol at its on-campus facility?<\/p>\n 2. Is STATE U able to sell alcohol at its on-campus facility?<\/p>\n And, if beer sales were to be allowed at the baseball stadium, might STATE U consider expanding the program to, say, its football or basketball stadiums?<\/p>\n The availability of alcoholic beverages at professional sporting events is a long-held tradition. However, there are a growing number of universities that are adding (or that are considering adding) alcohol to the concessions available in their Collegiate Sports Stadiums. For example, beer is sold at over 20 on-campus Division I Football stadiums, an increase from 10 such schools just 10 years ago (6). When we add in off-campus stadiums, the number increases to 32 institutions (37). This number constitutes 25% of the 128 FBS football programs.<\/p>\n Many fans consume alcoholic beverages during their pre-game tailgate parties. Others enjoy drinks in the stadiums and arenas (some by sneaking alcohol into the stadiums). Until recently, West Virginia University (and others) allowed fans to leave their football stadiums at half-time and re-enter (often after having alcoholic beverages at their tailgate spots) in the third quarter (21). Colorado State University has been allowing in-stadium alcohol sales for over 35 years. With the neighboring Coors Brewery and a number of craft brewers, supporters argue the location in the \u201cNapa Valley of Beer\u201d would make it conspicuously absent to not allow beer sales at such sporting events. And, interestingly, beer sales amount to 55% of total concession revenue (19).<\/p>\n The purpose of this manuscript is to examine the issue of alcohol sales at collegiate sporting events. First, a brief look at current practices with respect to in-stadium alcohol sales is provided. Second, the reasons schools are considering alcohol sales are discussed, along with the limitations to its possible introduction. Finally, a look at \u2018Best Practices\u2019 for enhancing the fan experience and the safeguards used to limit the problems associated with fan over-consumption of alcohol are examined.<\/p>\n The Current State of Affairs<\/strong><\/p>\n Many institutions currently allow alcohol sales at basketball and baseball games. The University of Cincinnati sells beer at most on-campus sporting events \u2013 including the sale of green beer on St. Patrick\u2019s Day (40). During Spring 2014, the University of Texas began a pilot program of allowing alcohol sales at selected sporting events (5). Southern Methodist University piloted alcohol sales at Basketball games before considering its sales at all home sporting events (17). It must be noted that the NCAA limits the sale of alcohol at NCAA-sponsored events such as championships. As such, fans at the Men\u2019s Final Four Basketball Championship (AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX) were not able to buy beer and wine (5). But, fans at December and January Football Bowl games (not NCAA Championship events) can typically purchase alcohol in-stadium. From Table One, we see a mix of public and private institutions. Also, we see most schools are NOT in the elite Power 5 Conferences (ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, PAC 12, and SEC). To be clear, state laws may preclude alcohol sales on state property (15). Of the Power 5 Conferences only the SEC bans such sales while the others leave the issue to the institutions themselves (8). And, Athletic Directors are not unified in their view on the subject. Peterson (26) notes that Athletic Directors see big differences between alcohol availability in luxury boxes (where boosters pay a premium to attend events) and its mass sales to legally-aged ticketed fans throughout the stadium. The issues will be discussed in the sections that follow.<\/p>\n Drivers of Interest in Adding In-Stadium Alcohol Sales<\/strong><\/p>\n Access to New Revenue Streams<\/strong><\/p>\n Recent research by the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics (11) found that athletics expenses are rising at an annual rate of approximately 7% and that revenues (from current sources) are not expanding as quickly. NCAA research (22) found spending for athletics increased 43 percent between 2004 and 2008 while revenue increased by 33% during the same period. In December 2014, the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) elected to disband its Men\u2019s Football program citing rising costs, stagnant revenues, and needed capital expenditures in facilities upgrades. In the UAB case, the University had been providing a $20 million annual supplement to the Athletic Department\u2019s $30 million annual budget (35).<\/p>\n Additionally, the Power 5 Conferences (ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, PAC 12, and SEC) are proposing an increase in student aid known as the \u2018Full Cost of Attendance\u2019 which will increase the aid amount by $2,000 – $5,000 per student-athlete recipient (27). Further, there could be increased costs associated with court rulings on athlete compensation for earnings from use of the \u2018images\u2019 by their institutions (e.g., the O\u2019Bannon case). Finally, conference expansion has increased travel distances (and costs) for member institutions. As such, today\u2019s Athletic Administrator is looking at new ways to fund their operations. The sale of alcoholic beverages in stadiums and arenas can generate revenue in two ways; increased attendance particularly among students and more lucrative suite sales, and increased concession sales (4).<\/p>\n As noted earlier, West Virginia University used to allow re-entry into football games in Milan Puskar Stadium. That policy was changed in 2010 by Athletic Director Oliver Luck. But, concurrently, the decision was made to allow in-stadium alcohol sales. The university reported over $500,000 in new concession revenue tied to alcohol sales (21). With the introduction of Alcohol Sales at Troy (AL), it was estimated that Troy would generate an additional $200,000 in commissions in its first season. Breaking it down, Troy gets about $2 for every $5 beer sold. Troy is among 5 Sun Belt Conference schools allowing alcohol sales in stadium (along with Louisiana Lafayette, Louisiana Monroe, South Alabama, and Georgia State) (6).<\/p>\n For municipal stadiums, the access to new revenue streams can be similarly appealing. The city of Memphis, TN operates the Liberty Bowl (home to Memphis State University). The city reported annual operating losses of at least $250,000 with needed infrastructure improvements. Their decision to allow in-stadium alcohol sales was one attempt to increase stadium\/concession revenue (25).<\/p>\n Enhancing the Fan Experience<\/strong><\/p>\n In his well-known seminal piece in the Harvard Business Review titled \u201cMarketing Myopia\u201d, Professor Ted Levitt (13) warned marketers to avoid myopia in defining their markets, consumers, product uses, reasons for buying, and other consumer-related matters. Extended to athletics, today\u2019s sports marketers well-recognize they are offering an entertainment option in a crowded marketplace. In response, the in-stadium fan experience continues to evolve with the introduction of enhanced WiFi and DAS (Digital Antenna Systems) access, game-oriented smart-phone applications, unique video footage only available to in-stadium patrons, the ability to order concessions from your seats, and other innovations which are key to attracting and retaining young fans (3).<\/p>\n According to Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith, \u201cLess than 25% of our in stadium crowd uses their mobile devices during games. But of that 25%, a super majority are students,\u201d (28). Young fans want instant access to other scores, they want to take selfies, Instagram videos or tweet, and stay in touch with family and friends that are following the game but are not there. Students who enjoy the game day experience are more likely to return to the stadium as alumni, many of them with their children which expose a whole new generation to the sights, sounds and rituals of the game day experience (28).<\/p>\n For some fans, the ability to enjoy a beer (perhaps a more expensive craft beer) in-stadium may enhance their game day experience. Scott (32) suggests cold weather baseball programs in particular should consider alcohol as a means to attract fans. When the University of North Texas opened its new Apogee Stadium, alcohol availability was a constant discussion. As noted by Athletic Director Rick Villarreal, \u201cIn a market where we are in constant competition for the consumer\u2019s entertainment dollar, we have to provide the amenities sports enthusiasts expect. With the addition of beer sales in the stadium, we will now offer what venues like AT&T Stadium and the American Airlines Center have provided from day one \u201d (16).<\/p>\n Some institutions, such as the University of Toledo, make alcohol only available in premium seats\/suites (1). Many of these ticket buyers purposefully elect to \u2018buy up\u2019 to the premium seating option for the enhanced entertainment value. When asked about others offering beer in stadium, the Athletic Director at The Ohio State University responded, \u201cI understand why Akron is doing it. They\u2019re trying to enhance their atmosphere. We just don\u2019t need to do that.\u201d (1).<\/p>\n Addressing Declining Student Attendance<\/strong><\/p>\n According to a Wall Street Journal study (2), the average student attendance at college football games from 2009 \u2013 2013 was down (on average) 7.1% for all institutions (n=79) and 5.6% for the members of the 5 Power conferences. To be clear, some schools have seen increases in their student attendance but, on average, fewer students are attending college football games when all schools are added together. The decline in student attendance is attributed to a variety of factors, including rising ticket prices, more lopsided games, fewer match-ups with long-time rivals, and the proliferation of television and internet broadcasts (2). Some selected examples are provided in Table Two.<\/p>\n Related to the section above on fan experience, the availability of in-stadium alcohol sales (a legal product) sold to of-age students may be one-way to encourage greater student attendance. Louisiana \u2013 Monroe introduced in-stadium alcohol sales in 2013. As noted in Table Two, student attendance increased by over 1\/3rd for the 3 years of data provided in the study (2). ULM Athletic Director Brian Wickstrom offered the following preliminary assessment, \u201cIt went really well. We actually had no complaints from fans. We didn\u2019t have any increase in arrests. We got a little bump in revenue from beer sales. But, it actually went off really, really well\u201d (28). It is unknown if there a causal relationship between the introduction of alcohol sales and an increases in student attendance. About \u00bd of the total gain was in 2011-2012 (no alcohol sales) and the other \u00bd in 2012-2013 (alcohol sales). Prices were kept low ($4 per cup) and availability was NOT limited to premium seats.<\/p>\n Crowd Management<\/strong><\/p>\n Providing alcohol in a controlled environment may help schools overcome the challenges of binge drinking, violence, and other alcohol-related issues. The police chief of West Virginia University, Bob Roberts, stated \u201cIn 2010 we made 117 game day arrests, while in 2011 (after the implementation of in-stadium beer sales) we made 79 arrests on game day, which is nearly a 35% decrease\u201d (21). Similarly, the University of Minnesota reported fewer alcohol-related incidents when alcohol sales were allowed in stadium (29). The ability to buy a beer in the stadium may have the effect of discouraging binge drinking just before entering the stadium (6). The logic here is simple: facing a 3-hour game, some fans over-drink before entering the stadium in order to \u201ckeep their buzz\u201d for the duration of the game. Ready access to alcohol for sale may discourage this practice.<\/p>\n Colorado Mesa University used to allow students to drink in an area just outside the baseball stadium. Here, they lamented that students could drink for all 9 innings and harass opposing players (assuming an escalating matter with continued alcohol consumption). The introduction of in-stadium alcohol sales encouraged greater fan attendance while concurrently given the institution greater control over who was purchasing and consuming alcohol (21). Appealing to New Market Segments<\/strong><\/p>\n A primary target market for any university sports program is its alumni network given their connection to the institution. Yes, we can find dedicated alumni well-clad in school colors tailgating with classmates under a school logo tent while introducing their children to the institution and rituals. Enticing the casual sports fan is another matter. While planning for the introduction of alcohol at Southern Methodist University (SMU), the University\u2019s research team consistently heard the theme of \u201cbeer and wine availability\u201d among casual fans who were really looking for new entertainment experiences (such as attending SMU sporting events) (18). Also, these causal fans will often find the cost of attending collegiate games to be below the costs of professional sports.<\/p>\n Recognizing the Local Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n Each community, region, and\/or state possesses a \u2018drinking culture\u2019 and corresponding alcohol consumption patterns along with the related problems from over-consumption (10). Relating back to Table One, some pockets of availability do appear:<\/p>\n So, 3 states account for 41% of the sites where a sports fan can purchase in-stadium alcohol. This suggests some locations may be more inclined to support alcohol sales.<\/p>\n The University of Nevada is located in Reno, a community filled with downtown casinos where alcohol flows 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. In a natural extension (to some), alcohol sales are allowed in the University\u2019s Mackay Stadium (football). The same is true of the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) where athletic leaders feared they be \u201ccrucified\u201d if they did not allow public alcohol sales in their stadiums. It is argued that the availability of alcohol in casinos creates an expectation that extends to sporting events and venues (19).<\/p>\n Conversely, Syracuse University has sold beer in the on-campus Carrier Dome for both football and basketball games since 1980. When they switched conference affiliation to the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference), they found that no other schools allowed on-campus alcohol sales. The ACC schools located further south are often more rural and conservative and do not allow on-campus alcohol sales as it is inconsistent with local culture and behavioral norms (8).<\/p>\n Local craft brews may be a natural addition to concessions given their connection to local culture (1). The same may be true to allow local wines to be sold in areas where a high concentration of wineries can be found (such as California, Virginia, New York, and other states). Distilled spirits can also be concentrated in their production locations (such as Kentucky or Tennessee). Their sales or availability may bring different issues to schools. But, their presence in the local community may make perceived \u201csafer\u201d or \u201cless harmful\u201d alcohol (such as beer or wine) more likely to be welcomed.<\/p>\n Constraining Factors in the In-Stadium Sale of Alcohol<\/strong><\/p>\n Mixed Messaging (Family Affairs \u2013 Mixing Alcohol)<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n As noted earlier, college sports are one of many entertainment options available to interested fans\/consumers.\u00a0 Given their provincial nature and lower price points, college sports compared to professional sports, are often a very attractive family entertainment option.\u00a0 \u00a0It is the presence of large numbers of children that prompts discussions of the appropriateness of mixing alcohol-induced fans and a day of family fun.\u00a0 For some, they don\u2019t\u2019 believe this mix is appropriate. \u00a0Consider the National Football League (NFL) which has experienced problems of intoxication, profanity, abusive language, and violence associated with alcohol consumption.\u00a0 During the 2013 season, 8,000 NFL fans were ejected for violations of the league\u2019s code of conduct (9).<\/p>\n Promoting Alcohol Use among Young People<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) have consistently opposed any introduction of in-stadium alcohol sales given that many college-aged students are under age 21 (the legal drinking age).\u00a0 It is further argued that children are always watching adults for behavioral leads or cues (i.e., accepted behaviors).\u00a0 The organization doesn\u2019t like the implied linkage in the mind of a child.\u00a0 Noted MADD National President Jan Withers, \u201cIf they see the only way to have fun is to drink a lot, then they\u2019re going to model that.\u00a0 That\u2019s not the message we want to be sending them (24).\u201d\u00a0 Further, it is argued, it is counter-intuitive to express institutional concerns about binge drinking among college students and then allow them to buy\/consume alcohol while watching collegiate athletics.<\/p>\n Safety \/ Legal Concerns<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Each institution considering possible in-stadium alcohol sales will need to check local, state, and athletic conference regulations to see if any restrictions exist.\u00a0 For example, a state institution may find some restriction on alcohol sales.\u00a0\u00a0 The 23-school California State University system has a ban on alcohol availability in the general seating areas of sports facilities (24).\u00a0 Most athletic conferences leave the decision to provide in-stadium alcohol sales at the discretion of each member school (19).\u00a0 There is one notable exception \u2026 The Southeastern Conference (SEC) policy is provided below:<\/p>\n No alcoholic beverages shall be sold or dispensed for public consumption anywhere in the facility and the possession and\/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the public areas of the facility shall be prohibited. These prohibitions shall not apply to private, leased areas in the facility or other areas designated by the SEC. There shall be no advertising displays mentioning or promoting alcoholic beverages in the facility.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Note the policy does not preclude alcohol availability is premium-seating sections of a stadium.\u00a0 For example, fans in select premium seats and\/or suites at LSU games can get access to alcohol but fans in the broader stadium cannot (38).<\/p>\n Vendors that elect to sell alcohol are held liable under what is known as \u201cdram shop\u201d statutes which allow injured plaintiffs to recover damages from a seller or vendor of alcohol for injuries sustained as a result of a consumer\u2019s behaviors while intoxicated (15).\u00a0 Under this scenario, a fan injured by the actions of a drunken fan can seek damages from the supplier of the alcoholic beverages.\u00a0 This enhanced legal liability may discourage some institutions from allowing in-stadium sales.\u00a0 In other cases, the food and beverage partner (such as Aramark, Sodexho, or Center Plate) is the vendor of record and splits the proceeds of stadium concessions with the university at a pre-negotiated rate.\u00a0\u00a0 In fact, the University of Minnesota reported a revenue increase but incurred a net loss of $16,000 due to the compensation agreement with its food and beverage concessioner (Aramark) (23).<\/p>\n Recommended \u2018Best Practices\u2019 for In-Stadium Alcohol Sales<\/strong><\/p>\n As of this writing, a relatively small number of colleges provide for in-stadium sale and consumption of alcohol.\u00a0 It was noted that 32 Division I football programs provide for such in-stadium sales.\u00a0 A consistent theme among Athletic Directors has been the recommendation that an institution pilot alcohol sales in some venues\/sports before choosing to expand to other sports and stadiums.\u00a0 As noted above, Southern Methodist University (SMU) used basketball games as it\u2019s trial-run before considering expansion of alcohol to its football games (17).\u00a0 \u00a0Applying this trial-run logic to this manuscript, below are the currently-considered best practices reported by institutions that do allow in-stadium alcohol sales. In the diffusion of innovations, these early schools are the \u201cInnovators\u201d and \u201cEarly Adopters\u201d while broader majority of athletic departments will decide if they will follow these earlier adopters (see Rogers (30) for more information on the Diffusion of Innovations).<\/p>\n Premium Seats Only (not for general admission consumption)<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n There is a clear distinction between allowing fans in more controlled environments (such as suites or premium seats) to purchase alcohol and allowing fans in the general admission section unlimited access.\u00a0 From a policing standpoint, the more limited the area it is assumed that greater control can be exerted.\u00a0\u00a0 Purdue, for example, introduced alcohol sales in a new South End Zone Patio built in Ross-Ade Stadium.\u00a0 Here, fans pay $250 for a VIP card redeemable for beer and wine to be consumed only in the patio region.\u00a0 Interesting, the patio replaced some 6,100 bleacher seats that were removed (31).\u00a0 Louisiana Tech does not allow in-stadium alcohol sales but may well consider its introduction in a new multi-purpose facility under construction in an end zone area (38).<\/p>\n Alcohol Free Family Zones<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n To address the problems associated with alcohol consumption many stadiums have alcohol free, special family friendly sections.\u00a0 For example, Sun Life Stadium in Miami has two such sections for Miami Dolphin games and 7 sections for Miami Hurricane games (36).\u00a0 These seats are not in the best location however, as all are located in the upper end zone.\u00a0 As an additional enticement, the Cleveland Browns sell discounted tickets in their family friendly section (7).<\/p>\n Age Checks \/ Wrist Bands \/ Constant Carding<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Alcohol buyers must be at least 21 years of age.\u00a0 Some concession operators use centralized ID checking with wrist-bands where others use ID checks on a per-transaction basis.\u00a0\u00a0 Advocates suggest the availability of in-stadium sales gives schools greater control over under-age drinking.\u00a0 North Texas uses 4 hand-picked and well-trained employees per service window.\u00a0 Two people ID buyers while two others pour the beer for patrons.\u00a0 Further, North Texas security was able to reposition some security team members from tailgate patrol to in-stadium security (33). \u00a0\u00a0West Virginia introduced its \u201cHIGH FIVE RULES\u201d to help all fans (including students) to make good choices during game day.\u00a0 The High Five Rules\u201d are (41):<\/p>\n Then, an in-stadium system is used to allow fans to text security personnel when any incidents occur (19).<\/p>\n Limit Number of Drinks Sold Per Transaction<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Institutions commonly restrict the number of drinks a single buyer can purchase per transaction with 2-3 drinks being most-commonly reported.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This approach can be combined with a wrist-band with 2-3 tabs to only be removed by concession personnel at the time of beverage sale (18).\u00a0 And, clear cups can be purposefully used to allow security personnel to see what fans are drinking.<\/p>\n Additionally, the issue of cup or serving size must be determined.\u00a0 Food research suggests larger serving sizes tend to lead to larger amounts consumed.\u00a0 That is, we eat\/drink all that is served (39).\u00a0 So, whether a beer\u2019s serving size is 12 or 24 ounces \u2026 it is likely to be consumed.\u00a0 Consistent with limits on drinks sold, drink portions can be controlled with container size selection.<\/p>\n Terminate Sales at Pre-Determined Times<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Some schools, such as Syracuse University, terminate beer sales at halftime of football games to encourage safe transit home of its fans (while concurrently discouraging over-consumption of alcohol) (12). \u00a0West Virginia University extends sales until mid-third quarter (19).\u00a0 These practices are akin to baseball stadiums having \u201clast call\u201d in the 7th<\/sup> inning.\u00a0 The University of Minnesota also uses this halftime break in sales.\u00a0 Additionally, they do not begin in-stadium sales until 1 hour before kickoff (29).\u00a0 Interesting, the University of Nevada worked with its conferences to schedule more afternoon games to avoid evening games which allowed more time for pre-game alcohol consumption (29).<\/p>\n Use Higher Price Points to Influence Consumption<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n The selection of a price point will influence the profile of the in-stadium alcohol buyer.\u00a0\u00a0 Lower prices may mean more student sales whereas higher prices may equate with less student in-stadium purchase given their (assumed) lower level of disposable income. West Virginia University used an aggressive pricing strategy for beverage sales ($7 domestic bottles and $9 craft beers).\u00a0 Cash-strapped students will be less likely to over consume (1).<\/p>\n Sponsoring a Designated Driver Program<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Taking a cue from various bars and taverns, some stadiums have developed designated driver programs with complimentary beverages for each volunteer.\u00a0 For example, West Virginia University worked with Beer companies to develop\/sponsor a Designated Driver program (19).\u00a0 The University of South Florida (which plays its football games in Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers) partnered with Budweiser on its \u201cSafe Ride Home\u201d program to provide complementary soft drinks for designated drivers and free taxi rides home for intoxicated fans (34).<\/p>\n Locating Sales Points in More Remote Locations<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n The location of distribution points can have the effect of discouraging over-consumption of in-stadium alcohol.\u00a0\u00a0 Common strategies include: (a) locating beer sales outlets away from the Family Section (16); locating beer sales outlets away from the student section (20); and avoid locating beer sales outlets in the middle of corridors to avoid creating traffic jams (33).\u00a0 Also, local craft beer sales outlets can be used to repurpose sections of a stadium by making them destinations (20).<\/p>\n This issue of remote site sales is consistent with food research which suggests that increases in the barrier to retrieve a snack tend to limit snacking (39).\u00a0 Applied to in-stadium alcohol sales, the need to travel a little further to get another beer may act as a \u2018pause point\u2019 and discourage over-consumption.<\/p>\n Education and Punishment<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Starting in the 2015 season, the NFL will ban fans ejected from one stadium from attending games at all NFL stadiums.\u00a0 Ejected fans have to pass a conduct class before applying for reinstatement with the team that ejected them (9).\u00a0 Conduct classes, which started in 2010 with the Giants, Jets, and Patriots, focus on alcohol awareness, disruptive behavior and the effect it has on other fans, and coping skills for acting appropriately in public.\u00a0 Hundreds of fans have completed the class without a single repeat offender (14).<\/p>\n Concluding Remarks<\/strong><\/p>\n There are currently 32 Division I Football Championship Series (FBS) programs that allow in-stadium alcohol sales from a total of 128 FBS teams (or, 25% of teams).\u00a0 However, this number has increased in the last decade for the reasons outlined above. \u00a0\u00a0Further, other schools allow alcohol sales at baseball and basketball games and many others are considering it.\u00a0 The intent here is not to advocate a position to add (or not to add) in-stadium alcohol sales.\u00a0 Athletic Administrators must examine their own operating situation to see if they believe this is appropriate for their institutions.\u00a0 It must fit their fan base, local culture, local\/state laws, conference by-laws, and other influencers.<\/p>\n Experienced leaders know that just because you are able to some something doesn\u2019t mean you are always well-advised to do so.\u00a0 The fact that more institutions have added in-stadium alcohol sales in recent years tells us that they\u2019ve had both INTEREST and ABILITY to implement this strategy.\u00a0\u00a0 In marketing terms, innovators have introduced a new product\/service and competitors are deciding if they should follow the lead of these innovators.\u00a0 And, \u2018not following the leader\u2019 is always a strategy option.\u00a0 If the decision is made to allow alcohol sales, we have provided some existing \u2018best practices\u2019 from these innovators to help guide their peers wrestling with this interesting, important, and perhaps controversial question.\u00a0 Today, the \u2018market penetration\u2019 of alcohol sales at FBS schools is 25%.\u00a0 Looking ahead a decade, which way will this number go (up or down)?\u00a0 We\u2019ll see . . .\u00a0 but the arrow is currently pointed up.<\/p>\n References<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Table One: Alcohol Sales at Division I Football Stadiums in 2014<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n Source:<\/strong> USA TODAY (2014).\u00a0 Alcohol will be sold during college football games at these 32 stadiums.\u00a0 August 22, 2014.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Table Two \u2013 Student Attendance at College Football Games 2009 \u2013 2013<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n Source:<\/strong>\u00a0 Cohen, B. (2014). At college football games, student sections likely to have empty seats.\u00a0 \u00a0Wall Street Journal<\/em>, August 27, 2014.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Submitted by Mark Mitchell, Ph.D*, Robert D. Montgomery, Ph.D* 1* […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_is_tweetstorm":false,"jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_options":[]},"categories":[290],"tags":[553,552,557,554,556,555,558],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p4btio-zP","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":6195,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/the-migration-of-business-strategies-from-the-hospitality-industry-to-athletics-marketing\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":0},"title":"The Migration of Business Strategies from the Hospitality Industry to Athletics Marketing","date":"December 20, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Authors: Mark Mitchell, Nicholas Clark, and Taylor Damonte Corresponding Author: Mark Mitchell, DBA Professor of Marketing Associate Dean, Wall College of Business NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) Coastal Carolina University P. O. Box 261954 Conway, SC 29528 mmitchel@coastal.edu (843) 349-2392 Mark Mitchell, DBA is Professor of Marketing at Coastal Carolina\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Research"","img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":134,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/do-it-yourself-investing-in-sport-related-firms\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":1},"title":"Do-It-Yourself Investing in Sport-Related Firms","date":"February 15, 2008","format":false,"excerpt":"Submitted by: Mark Mitchell, D.B.A., Associate Professor of Marketing at the Univ. of South Carolina Spartanburg; Robert Montgomery,D.B.A., Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Evansville; Sheila Mitchell, CPA, MPAcc, Instructor of Accounting at the Univ. of South Carolina Spartanburg Introduction The American culture is a sports-oriented culture. Sports\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Contemporary Sports Issues"","img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":3534,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/the-multi-sport-sampling-plan-a-price-bundling-option-for-collegiate-athletics\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":2},"title":"The Multi-Sport Sampling Plan: A Price Bundling Option for Collegiate Athletics","date":"March 11, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Authors: Mark Mitchell*(1) and Dennis Rauch (2) (1) Mark Mitchell (DBA, Mississippi State) is Professor of Marketing and Chair of the Department of Marketing and Hospitality at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC. (2) Dennis Rauch (PhD, University of Iowa) is Professor of Marketing at Coastal Carolina University in Conway,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Contemporary Sports Issues"","img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":7771,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/concessions-traditions-and-staying-safe-considering-sport-food-and-the-lasting-impact-of-the-covid-19-pandemic\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":3},"title":"Concessions, traditions, and staying safe: Considering sport, food, and the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic","date":"January 29, 2021","format":false,"excerpt":"Author: Alana N. Seaman, PhD Corresponding Author:Alana N. Seaman, Ph.D.University of North Carolina Wilmington601 South College RoadWilmington, NC 28403-5956910-962-7568SeamanA@uncw.edu Dr. Alana Seaman is an Assistant Professor of Recreation, Sports, & Tourism at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Her research centers on heritage and tourism particularly as related to sport,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Commentary"","img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":1598,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/outsourced-marketing-in-ncaa-division-i-institutions-the-companies-perspective\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":4},"title":"Outsourced Marketing in NCAA Division I Institutions: The Companies\u2019 Perspective","date":"February 11, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Submitted by Robert Zullo, Willie Burden, Ming Li ABSTRACT Outsourcing is a crucial tool that allows sport organizations to turn over their noncore processes to external service providers. The outsourced service providers help sport organizations focus on sales efforts to maximize revenue. The purpose of this study was to examine\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Contemporary Sports Issues"","img":{"alt_text":"Screen Shot 2014-02-11 at 10.08.18 AM","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/Screen-Shot-2014-02-11-at-10.08.18-AM.png?resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":8522,"url":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/article\/environmental-sustainability-practices-in-minor-league-sports-earth-day-publication\/","url_meta":{"origin":2221,"position":5},"title":"Environmental Sustainability Practices in Minor League Sports [EARTH DAY PUBLICATION]","date":"April 21, 2023","format":false,"excerpt":"Authors: Mark Mitchell1, Melissa Clark1, and Sara Nimmo2 1Wall College of Business, Coastal Carolina University, Conway, South Carolina, USA 2University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA Corresponding Author: Professor of MarketingAssociate Dean, Wall College of BusinessNCAA Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR)Coastal Carolina UniversityP. 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Box 261954Conway, SC 29528mmitchel@coastal.edu(843) 349-2392 Mark\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Research"","img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Mitchell-Table-1-2023.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2221"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2221"}],"version-history":[{"count":22,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2221\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7244,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2221\/revisions\/7244"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2221"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2221"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thesportjournal.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2221"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\nAs noted above, alcohol was available in-stadium at 32 Division I Football programs during the 2014 season. These schools are listed in Table One.<\/p>\n
\nMany institutions have strict alcohol policies such as the presence of a \u2018dry\u2019 campus. It is a bit na\u00efve to assume alcohol consumption is not occurring in such cases. However, the institutions are not providers (or approving providers) of the banned substance for selected events (such as football games). Allowing for in-stadium sales allows a school to model good behavior while working to limit abuse of an already-legal product.<\/p>\n\n
\n
\n
\n\n
\n On-Campus Stadiums<\/strong><\/td>\n Off-Campus Stadiums<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \n \n
\n \n
\n\n
\n Example Power 5 Conference Schools<\/strong><\/td>\n Example Non-Power 5 Conference Schools<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \n \n
\n \n