A Tribute to Athens: Rock Lobsters Unveil the Classic City Cage by Will Eskridge

Introducing the Classic City Cage: A One-of-a-Kind Helmet Celebrating Athens Culture

ATHENS, GA (April 8th, 2026) – The Athens Rock Lobsters are proud to unveil the Classic City Cage, a one-of-a-kind custom hockey helmet designed in partnership with Athens-based artist Will Eskridge. This special piece celebrates the spirit, creativity, and cultural identity of Athens, Georgia, while continuing the Rock Lobsters’ commitment to blending sport, art, and community into a fan-first experience.

The Classic City Cage captures the essence of Athens through a vibrant visual storytelling approach, incorporating recognizable local elements and artistic nods that reflect the city’s heritage. Known for his bold and distinctive style seen throughout the Athens creative scene, Eskridge brings a fresh perspective to the world of hockey design, transforming a traditional helmet into a meaningful representation of the Classic City.

“Working on this helmet has been an incredible pleasure,” said Eskridge. “My wife, son and I have become major Rock Lobster fans and for me to be able to represent our home of Athens in all its iconic glory is a dream. With this unique project, I show off parts of Athens’ cultural history in a fun and uplifting approach. I included icons that everyone in our community can recognize and appreciate while also celebrating our fantastic first hockey team.”

The collaboration continues the Rock Lobsters’ ongoing effort to highlight local talent and integrate the community into the identity of Crustacean Nation. By commissioning artists from the region, the organization continues to strengthen its connection with fans and reinforce the idea that the team belongs to the community it represents.

“We have seen Will’s incredible work throughout Athens, and it immediately stood out as something authentic to the culture of this city,” said Britton Briley, Chief Marketing Officer for the Athens Rock Lobsters. “Tapping into Will’s creative mind and seeing his amazing work in Athens, we knew we needed to commission him for this piece. The Classic City Cage reflects exactly what we aim to build with this organization; something rooted in community, creativity, and pride.”

Fans will have the opportunity to view the Classic City Cage in person on April 17th, when the Rock Lobsters host Playoff Game One of Round One at Akins Ford Arena, also known as The Tank. Eskridge will be honored during the evening with a ceremonial puck drop and special recognition celebrating his contribution to the team and the Athens arts community.

Grab game one playoff tickets here and come see the Classic City Cage in person. 

As the Rock Lobsters continue to build momentum both on and off the ice, the Classic City Cage stands as another example of how the organization is pushing the boundaries of what a sports brand can represent; bringing together art, culture, and hockey in a way that is uniquely Athens.

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Playoff Game One Tickets