With the winter sports season in full swing, Merrimack College is excited to announce a new addition to the game-day beverage menu at Lawler Arena thanks to a new partnership with a locally-owned Massachusetts brewery.
The College and Riverwalk Brewing Company, based in Newburyport, MA, collaborated to create Mack Attack, a limited edition American Light Lager. Mack Attack will be available exclusively on Merrimack’s campus beginning Friday, Dec. 1, at the women’s basketball home game against the University of California Riverside and at all future Merrimack ice hockey and basketball home games this season. Some of Riverwalk’s most popular beers have already been available at Merrimack athletic events this year.
“We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Riverwalk and celebrate the launch of the new Mack Attack American Light Lager,” said Jeremy Gibson, Merrimack College’s Vice President and Director of Athletics. “Mack Attack is the perfect beer for cheering on the Warriors and will foster greater pride among our fans, alumni and campus community.”
Riverwalk was founded in 2012 by Steve and Betsy Sanderson and is based in a state-of-the-art production facility and taproom in Newburyport, along with a restaurant in Beverly, MA. The brewery’s unique approach combines traditional brewing with innovative techniques, powered by solar and wind energy.
“We are extremely excited about the opportunity to collaborate with Merrimack College,” said Riverwalk owner and founder Steve Sanderson. “It’s a chance for us to showcase our brand and our dedication to engaging with and supporting the local community. By showcasing our beer at Merrimack College’s sporting events, we’re tapping into a unique opportunity to connect with a new and diverse audience.”
Mack Attack is described as pouring a golden yellow with a taste that is light and crisp, with 4.2 percent alcohol by volume and brewed with Hallertau hops. Mack Attack will be sold in 16-ounce cans. It features a label designed by Brie Guilfoyle, Merrimack’s assistant vice president of brand and special projects, that includes the Merrimack shield and pops of the College’s traditional blue and yellow.
The name Mack Attack was selected following a contest that saw more than 250 submissions by Merrimack students who are 21+. Those who submitted the winning name each received a gift card to the Merrimack Bookstore.
“The name Mack Attack embodies the Merrimack College Warrior spirit and our community’s passionate support for our athletic teams,” said Courtney Johanson, Merrimack’s senior vice president for institutional advancement, marketing and the chief marketing officer. “As Merrimack’s brand continues to grow, so too will the opportunities for more external partnerships that will enhance the College’s reputation.”
