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Report: Michigan State AD voices support for alcohol sales in Spartan Stadium

June 16, 2022
<p>Michigan State&#x27;s new athletic director Alan Haller watches the Spartans game against Northwestern. Michigan State won the season opener at Ryan Field 38-21, on Sep. 3, 2021.</p>

Michigan State's new athletic director Alan Haller watches the Spartans game against Northwestern. Michigan State won the season opener at Ryan Field 38-21, on Sep. 3, 2021.

Photo by Devin Anderson-Torrez | The State News

According to a report from Ryan Black at the Lansing State Journal, Michigan State Athletic Director Alan Haller is in support of alcohol sales within Spartan Stadium, a shift from previous athletic director Bill Beekman, who was not previously in support.

The main roadblock for Haller and Spartan fans is the current state law. Under the current law in the state of Michigan, alcohol sales are prohibited at college sporting events. Haller, according to the report, is in favor of having legislatures revisit the law.

"Those who make the decisions, I'll put it in their hands," Haller said to the Lansing State Journal.

Michigan State is one of six Big Ten programs that do not currently sell alcohol at their sporting events, including Michigan, Nebraska, Northwestern, Penn State and Wisconsin. However, Nebraska aims to have alcohol back in the stands after this fall after lifting their ban on sales and Wisconsin is viewing changing their policy as well.

One of the main factors for these schools not selling alcohol is the risk factor that comes with people maybe having a bit too much to drink. But Haller after visiting some stadiums this fall doesn't see that as an issue.

"I've done a little homework, both nationally and within the Big Ten, and what I'm trying to do is increase the enjoyment factor for the fans who come to our events," Haller said to the Lansing State Journal. "There are a portion of those who would like to have a beer or whatever at the event. I'd like to look into being able to provide that, just like there are some fans who want other things, whether it's different food items, better restrooms, larger concourses."

Alcohol sales are unlikely to begin anytime soon in Spartan Stadium with the current law and the need for approval from the MSU Board of Trustees, but Haller looks to get the ball rolling to attempt to improve the game experience.

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