UConn Husky Mascot on Beer Billboard Sparks Controversy

The University of Connecticut is working to remove the school’s Husky mascot from Coors billboards that have popped up along Interstates 84 and 91, NBC Connecticut reports.

UConn officials aren’t thrilled that the mascot, whose marketing rights are held by IMG Sports, is appearing alongside a beer brand with the words, “Huskies Love the Cold.” IMG reportedly has a sponsorship contract with Coors, which is how the mascot appeared on the billboard.

“Over the past week, the University has been working with IMG to facilitate the removal of the Coors billboards. As of today, the advertisement has been taken off the electronic billboards where it appeared, and IMG is working to remove the ad from static billboards,” UConn Athletic Director Warde Manuel said in a statement.

Manuel also said that “UConn does not condone irresponsible drinking” and would continue to “promote safe and healthy living habits.”

UConn Board of Trustees Chairman Lawrence McHugh and University President Susan Herbst reinforced Manuel’s sentiment in a joint statement on Wednesday, saying that they believe the billboards sent the wrong message and they are happy they’re being taken down.

“Adults are free to drink responsibly, but UConn cannot appear to endorse drinking among our students, particularly if they are under 21,” the statement said.

The University seems pleased now, but the question remains: Is the school overreacting that its mascot was associated with alcohol in an advertisement, or is the objection justified due to the large population of its students being under 21?

Photo courtesy of Dave Donohue (@dave_donohue) via Twitter.com