In a meeting with the Board of Regents on Thursday, Texas Tech Athletics proposed the sale of alcohol in the general seating areas at athletic events. Shortly after that, the regents then approved it.
“The landscape is changing and technology is changing. There are more games on TV than ever before and consumers can make choices. Do I want to come to Jones AT&T Stadium or do I want to tailgate or do I want to stay at home,” said Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt
Currently, Tech allows alcohol sales in premium seats. Hocutt believed the proposition would “enhance the game day experience.”
“We have to have an experience that delivers all the amenities you can get at home that are affordable options and an experience that is unrivaled that you cant get by staying at home.
Hocutt said according to research, the sale of alcohol at games reduces binge drinking and the number of alcohol-related incidences.
If approved, the proposal would include the sale of wine and beer at all athletic events. Hocutt projeted this could bring in a revenue between $800,000 and $1.4 million at least.
However, Hocutt said the proposal would eliminate the current re-entry policy at football games. That means fans cannot reenter after leaving.
This proposal has the support of many officials in the city, law enforcement, and community members, according to Hocutt.
If negotiations with their vender are successful, Hocutt said they plan to begin selling alcohol and reducing prices on food and drinks by the first Big 12 conference game in January.
