DAHLONEGA - The hills that once sparked America's first gold rush are now inspiring a new tradition at the University of North Georgia. Nighthawk Athletics has partnered with local craft brewery 52 West Brewing to introduce Gold City Lager, a new co-branded beer that celebrates Dahlonega's history and the growing community of Nighthawk fans.
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Brewed just a few miles from the Dahlonega square, Gold City Lager is a Bavarian-style Helles lager inspired by the golden hills that gave the city its nickname. The smooth, balanced beer will serve as the official craft beer of North Georgia Athletics, offering fans a locally brewed way to celebrate game day.
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The launch reflects the continued partnership between UNG Athletics and 52 West Brewing, one rooted in the shared goal of strengthening community connections and creating memorable fan experiences.
 
"Gold City Lager represents the type of partnership we strive to build at North Georgia – one that is anchored in our community and aligned with the future of our athletics program," said Director of Athletics Mary Rob Plunkett. "We are proud to collaborate with 52 West to create something uniquely North Georgia while continuing to enhance the game day experience for our fans through multiple avenues."
 
As part of the partnership, Nighthawk Athletics is also introducing the 52 West Left Field Landing at Haines & Carolyn Hill Stadium at Lynn Cottrell Park. Located within the Cottrell Terrace in left field, the new space offers fans a relaxed viewing experience with high-top tables and field-level seating as a casual gathering spot where friends, families and alumni can enjoy Nighthawk games alongside a locally brewed Gold City Lager.
 
52 West Brewing opened in December 2022 at 350 Hwy. 52 West in Dahlonega and has quickly become a community gathering place just minutes from campus. Gold City Lager joins the brewery's lineup of 12 craft beers and is currently available on draft at the taproom.

"The chance to engage with Nighthawk fans and celebrate the heritage of our historic community made both the branded beer and Left Field Landing a perfect fit," said 52 West Brewing co-owner David Burns. "We are proud to produce Gold City Lager, the official craft beer of North Georgia athletics, as an easy-drinking light lager that is perfect for tailgating, enjoying gameday and giving back to the community we love one beer at a time. Cheers!"
 
In the coming weeks, the beer will also debut in 16-ounce cans at UNG Athletics events and at select local retailers.
 
Fans will get their first chance to experience the new 52 West Left Field Landing this Saturday, March 14, when the fifth-ranked UNG softball team continues its Peach Belt Conference series against USC Aiken. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m., with a ceremonial first pitch from the 52 West Brewing ownership to precede the game.