Wright State alum partners with alma mater to brew a Raider-branded beer

Fans can now enjoy Wright State University-branded beer while cheering on the Raiders.

Wright State Athletics and Southern Ohio Brewing collaborated to produce the first-ever Raider-branded beer, Rowdy Blonde Ale, which is now available at Wright State sporting events, Southern Ohio Brewing and local restaurants with pouring rights.

“We are extremely excited to announce this partnership with Southern Ohio Brewing. Southern Ohio Brewing is a natural fit for a branded-beer collaboration,” said Joylynn Brown, director of athletics at Wright State. “We’re proud to partner with a Raider-owned, local brewery that will resonate with our fanbase.”

The officially licensed Rowdy Blonde Ale pays homage to Wright State University Athletics, incorporating the Raiders’ current logo while also featuring the vintage Viking Raider logo.

Located only a few miles from the Dayton Campus, Southern Ohio Brewing is co-owned by Wright State University 1991 graduate James Williams.

“For me, it’s a way to give back to a place that has given so much to me,” said Williams.

Rowdy Blonde Ale is a classic blonde ale crafted to be enjoyed throughout games with a bit of a rowdy character. The beer features hops from the Pacific Northwest and a unique citrus profile making it the perfect gameday beer.

“Fifty cents from every sale goes back to Wright State Athletics,” said Brown.

About 100 Wright State faculty, staff and alumni helped select the beer during a beer tasting at Southern Ohio Brewing in July. Participants were able to vote on two different craft beers, with the blonde ale receiving the most votes.

Jason Franklin, deputy athletics director, attended classes at Wright State with Williams and helped bring the craft beer to campus.

“We are just excited to have our own beer inside the Nutter Center,” said Franklin. “It just makes so much sense.”