The Covid pandemic was a challenging time for many. Some businesses did not survive, while others were started as a result. After the closure of a sports bar and separate entertainment venue that shared space at 4825 Hopyard Road, married couple Debbi and Tom Del Conte leased the building in 2021 and put their own stamp on the businesses when they reopened. In 2021, The Draft Sports Pub & Grill was launched in September and Mavericks in October. During the summer, The Draft is open every day but Sunday. Mavericks, a country nightclub that features live music and line dancing, is open to customers aged 21 and over on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 pm to 2 am. The two venues share staff and a menu that goes beyond the usual pub fare.

"Most people who come into Mavericks or the Draft for the first time probably think all they can get is a burger," says Co-Owner Debbi Del Conte. "We actually have a pretty extensive menu for lunch or dinner. What's probably most surprising to new customers is realizing how extensive our menu is on any given day." In addition to the usual burgers and hot dogs, the menu also offers portobello mushroom burgers, vegetarian lasagna, grilled shrimp or fish tacos, shepherd's pie, and a variety of salads, sides, and flatbreads.

The nightclub holds line dancing lessons at the beginning of each Friday and Saturday evening, and plans to open for lessons only one additional evening each week. Regulars range in age and come for the live music, dancing, and mechanical bull. Mavericks is also a great event space, according to Del Conte. It is available for business or private events during the week as well as Sunday and Saturday afternoons.

"If you're having any kind of a special event, reach out to us," she says. Catering is available at Mavericks, which holds up to 300 people for a standing-only event. If desired, private rentals can include line dancing lessons and use of the nightclub's mechanical bull. The facilities at both venues were recently updated, and the nightclub's dance floor was replaced this month.

Sports fans flock to The Draft Sports Pub & Grill in part for the 19 televisions broadcasting major sports events as well as the full bar and fireplace. The owners are working to make the pub an appealing community hub. A regular Trivia Night takes place on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm and a Karaoke Night on Saturdays at 9 pm. According to Del Conte, adding board games to the bar is under consideration.

"We want to be that kind of place where everybody feels comfortable to come in, hang out, and have fun. We want people to feel welcome and almost like they're at home," notes Del Conte. "We value what our customers have to say. We value what our staff has to say. Basically, our mission statement is to enhance the quality of life for all stakeholders. Our stakeholders are, number one, our customers. Number two, are our employees. Number three are the vendors. Number four is the company as a whole. Last but not least, are the owners."

"We offer very good food for the lunch crowd in Hacienda, and their after-work unwind," adds Tom. "We are here for local community culture."

For more information about the Draft Sports Pub & Grill, please visit www.thedraftpleasanton.com, www.facebook.com/TheDraftPleasanton, or www.instagram.com/thedraft_pleasanton.

For more information about Mavericks, please visit www.maverickspleasanton.com, www.facebook.com/MavericksPleasanton, or www.instagram.com/MavericksPleasanton.