ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) – Following the lead of in-state rival Michigan State and a trend toward alcohol availability at college sports venues across the country, alcohol will not be allowed at Michigan Stadium starting this football season. Sales begin.
The Michigan Department of Athletics made the announcement Thursday following the successful rollout of alcohol sales at hockey and basketball arenas. The university's board of trustees voted to implement a liquor license at the “Big House” starting with the season opener against Fresno State on Aug. 31.
Last season, 55 of 69 schools sold alcohol in public areas of their stadiums, according to an Associated Press investigation of Power Five conference schools and the University of Notre Dame. Michigan State University, Kentucky State University, and Stanford University will begin selling alcohol at their football stadiums in 2023.
Michigan began selling alcohol at Yost Ice Arena and Chrysler Center in February in a trial of sales at football stadiums. The athletic department said there were no reports of problems related to alcohol consumption or medical response.
Fans will be required to show identification at the time of purchase, and each sale will be limited to two alcoholic beverages per person of legal drinking age.
The athletic department said alcohol proceeds will be used for operating costs and a portion will go to the university to fund campus research projects.
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AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
