Classic City Night + B52s

CLAWSHANK REDEMPTION TIME: Athens Rock Lobsters to Host Historic Home Opener at Akins Ford Arena

Athens, GA – The wait is over, and the time for redemption is here. The Athens Rock Lobsters are thrilled to announce that the inaugural home opener will take place this Friday, December 13th, at the newly completed Akins Ford Arena, where the team will face off against the Mississippi Sea Wolves. After receiving a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), the Rock Lobsters are set to bring professional hockey to Athens, Georgia, for the very first time.

Adding to the excitement of this historic night, Athens’ very own B-52s will make a special appearance. The iconic band will be honored with customized Rock Lobsters jerseys and will participate in the ceremonial puck drop, solidifying this night as one to remember.

“This is a moment we’ve been waiting for,” said Scott Hull, Executive Vice President of the Athens Rock Lobsters. “It’s been a long time coming, but we are finally ready to hit the ice at home in front of our incredible fans. Akins Ford Arena is going to be a fantastic venue for professional hockey, and we can’t wait to share this milestone with the Athens community.”

Britton Briley, Director of Marketing & Branding for the Rock Lobsters, echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing the cultural significance of the event. “This night represents the culmination of hard work and overcoming challenges along the way. Working with Live Nation, Crush Malibu Music, and, of course, the B-52s, has been a dream. Their involvement adds a truly special touch to an already historic occasion. This is an evening you won’t want to miss.”

All festivities originally planned for December 6th will now take place during the December 13th home opener, including:

• A ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of Akins Ford Arena.

• A rally towel giveaway for the first 3,000 fans in attendance.

• Live music to set the tone for an unforgettable night.

• A player walkout, where fans can cheer their team onto the ice.

• The B-52s ceremonial puck drop and jersey awarding.

Fans who held tickets for the original December 6th date will have their tickets automatically transferred to December 13th, thanks to the efforts of the Classic Center. For those still looking to join in on the action, tickets are available now at rocklobstershockey.com.

Don’t miss this chance to witness history in the making as the Athens Rock Lobsters embark on their first season at their new home. It’s time to rally, Athens – ClawShank Redemption is here.