Tina Charles, a former UConn star and WNBA legend, is making waves in the beer industry with her new venture, 78 Brewing Co. This unique business venture is a testament to her love for her alma mater and a celebration of her remarkable athletic career. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating story behind 78 Brewing Co., exploring its significance, personal touches, and the broader implications for UConn and women's basketball.
A Beer for the Ages
Charles' 78 Brewing Co. is a tribute to the undefeated UConn teams she played on in 2008-09 and 2009-10, which went a combined 78-0 and won two national championships. The name '78-0' is a powerful nod to this historic achievement, and the beer itself is a hazy IPA with a citrusy flavor, crafted with carefully selected hops. The dark blue can color, adorned with white and gold accents, mirrors UConn's team colors, creating a visually striking and meaningful package.
The launch party at East Rock Brewing Co. in New Haven, Connecticut, was a celebration of Charles' legacy. Her former coach, Geno Auriemma, was in attendance, adding to the significance of the event. The beer is now available at East Rock Brewing and Red Rock Cafe Storrs, and it will be featured at select UConn events, further solidifying its connection to the university.
A Personal Touch
Charles' involvement in every aspect of the brewing process is a testament to her dedication and passion. From selecting the hops to choosing the name, she has infused her personal touches throughout. This level of involvement is rare for a founder and showcases her desire to create a product that truly represents her story and her teammates.
Giving Back to the Community
The Hartford Courant reported that Charles plans to share proceeds with teammates from the 2008-10 squads, a heartwarming gesture that recognizes the collective effort of the team. Additionally, she will contribute to the UConn Foundation and support name-image-likeness funding for current UConn athletes, ensuring that her legacy extends beyond the court.
A Star's Second Act
Tina Charles' transition from basketball to brewing is an intriguing one. At 37 years old, she is reflecting on her UConn career and the impact it had on her life. Her emotional remarks about cherishing the time at UConn and the challenges they faced due to their dominance in women's basketball provide a deeper insight into the culture and pressures of elite sports.
A Legacy in Numbers
Charles' UConn career was remarkable, ranking her fifth all-time in scoring (2,346 points) and fifth in blocks for the Huskies. She also holds the career record for rebounds (1,367). Her success at UConn led to three national player of the year awards in 2010, matching the feat of her teammate, Maya Moore.
At the time of her retirement, Charles was second in WNBA history in points (8,396), behind the legendary Diana Taurasi, and first in rebounds (4,262). These impressive statistics solidify her place among the greatest players in women's basketball history.
A Beer for the Sunset
Charles has announced plans for a second beer, the 'Sunset IPA', which will pay homage to her former team, the Connecticut Sun. The relocation of the Sun to Houston after this season adds a layer of sentimentality to this project, making it a fitting tribute to her time with the team.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
Tina Charles' 78 Brewing Co. is more than just a beer company; it's a celebration of her athletic achievements, a tribute to her alma mater, and a reflection of her personal values. As she continues to build her business, Charles is leaving an indelible mark on the beer industry and ensuring that her legacy will be enjoyed by fans for years to come.
In my opinion, this venture showcases Charles' entrepreneurial spirit and her desire to create something meaningful. It's a fascinating blend of sports and business, and it will be interesting to see how her beer venture evolves and impacts the world of craft brewing.
