Are You in a Beer League?

The city is putting an end to recreational “beer league” hockey players sipping suds in local dressing rooms after games.

In a recent letter, addressed to city leagues and arena users, officials announced that anyone caught consuming alcohol without a permit from the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission — as well as permission from the city’s community services department — will face serious consequences.

According to the letter — dated Jan. 17 — a zero tolerance policy is in effect.

Anyone discovered consuming alcohol on arena grounds will not only face suspension, but could also jeopardize the rest of their league. The city policy was introduced years ago.

“If the offending party is a member of a league, the organization will be notified,” states the new mandate.

“A failure of the organization to immediately suspend the offending party will result in the suspension of the entire league.”

Greg Witt, a supervisor for facility bookings with the city, said local arenas have been dealing with a small percentage of people who celebrate with booze in arena locker-rooms for some time.

“Really, what’s happening is the guys having a couple beers in the dressing room are breaking the law and puts us at increased liability.”

Along with alcohol, any player caught smoking on city facility grounds will face the same repercussions.