On the heels of a report that New Belgium and NC State University would be collaborating to create a new beer, another Triangle area university has revealed plans to market its own alcoholic beverage.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill announced Tuesday that it would be partnering with Smirnoff to release Tar Heel Ice, a new edition to the Smirnoff Ice line.
“We are excited about this new partnership,” Smirnoff spokesperson Gregg Leonard told reporters. “Smirnoff Ice is one of the most popular drinks in Chapel Hill, so we can’t wait for Tar Heel Ice to hit the shelves.”
UNC Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham echoed Leonard’s excitement.
“A nationally known college athletic program deserves a nationally known drink,” Cunningham said. “We’re also hoping the state government passes that law to allow beer to be sold at college games. Then Tar Heel Ice will become the official drink of all our athletic venues.”
“Obviously this does not mean that the University of North Carolina condones underage drinking.”
The idea has also been well-received among UNC students, with 68% of those polled responding that they were “super duper pumped” about the idea.
“Bro, we’re getting our own beer!” One student, who asked to remain anonymous, said. “Tar Heel Ice and me, were gonna get babes 24/7, bro.”
Outgoing NC State Athletic Director Debbie Yow was less than enthusiastic about the news.
“And they say we’re not their rival,” Yow said. “Tar Heel Ice? The catchphrase should be ‘goes down easy, just like our football team’.”
yonkaholic 