GRAND FORKS, N.D. – University of North Dakota Athletics and Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships are partnering with Rhombus Guys Brewing Company to introduce "1883 Ale," the official beer of UND. The university-branded beer, which is licensed through UND's licensing company, CLC, will be introduced this week at a public launch party on Wednesday, September 28, at Rhombus Guys Brewing Company from 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, following the Homecoming pep rally in Town Square.
The new 1883 Ale gets its name from the university's founding year and builds on the current athletic sponsorship held by Rhombus Guys Brewing Company, the newest concept in the line of successful Rhombus Guys branded restaurant and lifestyle ventures.
"We are honored to be the brewers of 1883 Ale, UND's official beer, and to expand our partnership with the university," said Matt Winjum, a founder of Rhombus Guys Brewing Company who earned his MBA from UND. "As an alumnus of UND and employer of countless students over the years, the university is special to us, and we are excited to deliver our uniquely branded ale to the Fighting Hawks community."
The university's trademark licensing office, Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships, and Rhombus Guys Brewing Company engaged CLC to develop the brand label for the beer. The 1883 Ale will be available at Rhombus, as well the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center and Ralph Engelstad Arena during UND athletic and campus events. Additionally, specially designed 1883 Ale apparel will be available soon at the Sioux Shop.
In addition to 1883 Ale, the university has also licensed consumables such as coffees, wine, ice cream, and cookies. A portion of proceeds from the sale of 1883 Ale goes back to support the University of North Dakota.
About University of North Dakota
Founded in 1883, six years before the state itself was established, UND gave North Dakota its name when the former Dakota territories separated into two distinct states. Today, UND is a busy 521-acre campus, the state's largest. We've emerged as a leader in engineering, medicine, aviation, space, and unmanned aircraft systems.
About CLC
CLC is the nation's leading collegiate trademark licensing company with a mission to elevate college brands through insight and innovation. The company is uniquely positioned to deliver consumer connections and brand visibility for institutions through data-based, customized solutions that include impactful licensed merchandise strategies and innovative marketing platforms to navigate the ever-evolving consumer and retail marketplace. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, CLC is guided by values to serve others, build trust, lead well, innovate often, and be passionate. Founded in 1981, CLC is a part of LEARFIELD, the leading media and technology services company in intercollegiate athletics.
About Rhombus Guys
Rhombus Guys is a locally owned and operated hospitality business that has been a key part of the community since 2006. Long known as the best pizza around, Rhombus opened a brewery in 2015. Rhombus Guys has won many awards in the restaurant and brewing industries. They have been an important partner with UND for many years. Expanding the partnership with the release of 1883 Ale was a natural fit!
Media contacts:
Alec Stocker Johnson, UND, alec.stocker.johnson@und.edu
Matt Winjum, Rhombus Guys Brewing Company, mwinjum@rhombusguys.com
Tammy Purves, CLC, tammy.purves@clc.com, 770-799-3275
