First-of-Its-Kind Hockey NIL Deal: Georgia Football’s Nazir Stackhouse Joins Athens Rock Lobsters for an Unforgettable Night
ATHENS, GA, December 29th, 2024 – Georgia football’s Nazir Stackhouse, a two-time National Champion, is set to make a special appearance at Akins Ford Arena on January 3rd during the Athens Rock Lobsters game. The evening, presented by local banking partner First American Bank & Trust, promises to be an extraordinary event combining the excitement of football and hockey for fans in the Athens community.
Stackhouse will kick off the evening with a pre-game meet-and-greet, where fans who purchase a specialty ticket package will have the opportunity to receive autographs, take photos, and connect with the Georgia defensive lineman. For those looking to elevate their experience, the "Stackhouse Superfan Suite" upgrade includes premium seating, complimentary food, and additional exclusive time with Stackhouse during the game.
This event marks a unique opportunity for Athens to merge its love for football—a cornerstone of the community’s identity—with the fast-paced, thrilling world of hockey. Nazir Stackhouse, known for his dominance on the gridiron, will help bridge the gap for fans who might be new to hockey, sharing insights into the game and breaking down key aspects like icing penalties, power plays, and the fast-paced action that keeps hockey fans on the edge of their seats.
“Nazir’s partnership perfectly ties Athens’ love for Georgia Football with its new energy surrounding the Rock Lobsters,” said Katelyn Sparks, Director of Partnership Fulfillment. “With the support of First American Bank & Trust, we’re excited to create a memorable night for fans of all ages and introduce the hockey experience to the Classic City.”
Adding to the excitement, the Athens Rock Lobsters will auction off a "one-of-one" Athens Rock Lobsters hockey jersey featuring Stackhouse’s nameplate and jersey number (78), autographed by the football star himself, making this a night to remember for fans of both sports.
Beyond the meet-and-greet, Stackhouse’s presence will bring a fresh perspective to hockey fans in Athens. Known for his ability to connect with people off the field, Stackhouse plans to use his platform to simplify the sport for newcomers. Whether it’s explaining the strategy behind a penalty kill or the importance of a goalie’s role, his approachable demeanor will allow fans to learn about the sport from a beginners perspective.
Director of Community Relations Lindsey Bornhorst echoed the sentiment: “This collaboration highlights the shared passion for sports in Athens - Naz is a fan favorite, and we’re thrilled to provide an opportunity for football fans to experience hockey with one of their own!”
The event underscores the Athens Rock Lobsters’ & Nazir Stackhouse’s commitment to community engagement and providing unforgettable fan experiences.
For tickets and more information, visit the Athens Rock Lobsters website. Follow the action on social media:
● Nazir Stackhouse (Instagram: @i_am_naz)
● Athens Rock Lobsters (Instagram: @athensrocklobsters)
● Gaines Group Activations (Instagram: @gainesgroup)
● First American Bank & Trust (Instagram: @fabtishere)
Gaines Group Activations continues to set the standard in NIL partnerships by highlighting their expertise in crafting memorable NIL collaborations that engage both athletes and their communities.
Nazir Stackhouse and the Athens Rock Lobsters
