The Univ. of Texas, SMU and the Univ. of North Texas are considering lifting the ban on alcohol sales at football and basketball games in a move that "could boost attendance and raise revenue," according to Repko & Barer of the DALLAS MORNING NEWS. SMU's proposed expansion of alcohol sales -- which are "already permitted in the football stadium’s luxury suites -- is backed by many student leaders, alumni and city officials." The school has "obtained the local and state permits, needing only approval from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission." SMU AD Rick Hart said that beer sales "could begin as early as January at Moody Coliseum." UNT also is "considering such sales, partly as a way to raise more money." UNT Senior Associate AD/Communications Eric Capper said that stadium sales "could help curb binge drinking outside before the games." Repko & Barer noted several other Texas-based schools, including Texas A&M, Baylor and TCU, "remain opposed" to alcohol sales. TAMU and Baylor indicated that stadium-wide sales "could spoil their game-day atmosphere." Like most major universities, TAMU "offers drinks in its premium seating areas or suites, often filled with alumni, donors and others paying extra." TAMU Senior Associate AD/External Affairs Jason Cook said that revenue from expanded sales "may be seen as a bonus," but schools also "have to consider increased law enforcement and training for ushers and concessionaires." The Univ. of Houston currently is the only school in the state that allows alcohol sales (DALLAS MORNING NEWS, 10/13).
