Locally brewed, universally loved: Laker Lager hits the tap

John Russell Brewing Co. logo

As Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é University gears up for its centennial year in 2026, fan engagement continues to be a focal point of Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Athletics. Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é is proud to announce a partnership with John Russel Brewing Company featuring a fresh brew to its lineup—The Laker Lager.

The Laker Lager is a beer that serves as a connection between Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é University and the Erie community. Every pint represents a long-standing Laker tradition of celebrating life’s moments with one another. The beer itself is brewed at John Russell Brewing Company, located at 7520 Peach St.

Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é alumnus John Melody ’90, co-owner of John Russell Brewing and the U Pick 6 pubs around Erie County, spoke about his excitement over the release of this beer: “We are excited to be able to brew this beer for Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é. It’s a clean, crisp, refreshing lager that will appeal to students, faculty, administration, and alumni.â€

With an ABV of 4.5%, all fans of age are welcome to enjoy a cold one together. Melody added, “It was great working with Joe Spano and Andy Simon-Wambach to develop this beer and a style that will hopefully accommodate everyone!â€

Fans can purchase one of these enlivening lagers at John Russell Brewing Company, Cornerstone Bar and Grill on Pine Avenue, The Roost pub at Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é, and across Parkhurst Concessions at Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é’s sporting events.