Athens, GA (July 22nd 2026) — Ghost Brands, The Creative Branding Agency, has officially been named the Agency of Record for the University of Georgia Ice Dawgs Hockey 2026-27 season, further expanding the agency’s growing footprint within the Northeast Georgia sports and entertainment landscape.
The partnership marks another significant milestone for Ghost Brands as the agency continues to establish itself as one of the Southeast’s leading sports marketing, branding, and fan engagement firms. Through the partnership, Ghost Brands will provide strategic branding, marketing, content creation, digital communications, fan engagement initiatives, promotional planning, and overall creative support for the Ice Dawgs organization as it continues to build upon its legacy as one of the most recognized club hockey programs in the country.
The UGA Ice Dawgs have long been a staple within the Athens sports community, creating a passionate following that extends beyond the university campus and throughout the region. As the program continues to grow both competitively and commercially, Ghost Brands will work alongside leadership to strengthen the organization’s brand presence, elevate the fan experience, and create new opportunities for engagement throughout their season at Akins Ford Arena.
“This partnership represents much more than hockey,” said Britton Briley, Founder and CEO of Ghost Brands. “The University of Georgia is one of the most recognizable institutions in the country, and the Ice Dawgs have built an incredible culture and following over the years. We are excited to help amplify that story, connect with fans in new ways, and support the organization’s long-term vision both on and off the ice.”
“Athens has become one of the most exciting sports communities in the Southeast, and the Ice Dawgs are proud to be a part of that momentum,” said John Camp, Head Coach of the UGA Ice Dawgs. “As our program continues to grow, it’s important that we align ourselves with partners who understand how to build brands, engage fans, and create lasting experiences. Ghost Brands has already helped shape the sports landscape in Athens, and we’re excited to work together as we continue building upon the legacy of UGA Hockey.”
The addition of the UGA Ice Dawgs further solidifies Ghost Brands’ growing influence within the Athens market. Over the past several years, the agency has played a pivotal role in helping shape the region’s rapidly expanding sports and entertainment sector.
Most notably, Ghost Brands served as a foundational partner in the launch of the Athens Rock Lobsters, helping lead the organization’s branding, marketing strategy, creative development, fan engagement initiatives, and inaugural season communications. The franchise quickly emerged as one of the most successful launches in professional hockey, generating record attendance figures, surpassing 100,000 fans at Akins Ford Arena during its inaugural season, and creating a passionate fan base known as “Crustacean Nation.”
In addition to its work with the Rock Lobsters, Ghost Brands has been actively involved in the launch and promotion of Akins Ford Arena’s newest professional sports venture, Athens’ upcoming indoor football league franchise, helping support branding, communications, and community awareness efforts as football prepares to become a year-round entertainment experience within the market.
“Ghost Brands has helped make the Athens Rock Lobsters a stand-out name in the community through creative fan engagement and exciting theme nights that make every home game memorable,” said Paul Cramer, President/CEO of The Classic Center Authority. “We’re excited to see them bring that same level of creativity and energy to their partnership with the UGA Ice Dawgs and the new Athens Indoor Football League team.”
Combined with its partnerships throughout professional soccer, baseball, hockey, and entertainment venues across the Southeast, Ghost Brands continues to demonstrate its ability to build brands, drive fan engagement, and create meaningful community connections.
“Our success in Athens has always been rooted in the people, organizations, and community leaders who believe in building something special,” Briley added. “The addition of the Ice Dawgs is another opportunity to contribute to the momentum that continues to make Athens one of the most exciting sports markets in the region.”
The UGA Ice Dawgs join an expanding Ghost Brands sports and entertainment portfolio that includes partnerships with the Athens Rock Lobsters, Greenville Triumph & Liberty, Hub City Spartanburgers, Fifth Third Park, Greenville Swamp Rabbits, GE Vernova Park, and numerous other organizations throughout the Southeast.
As Ghost Brands continues its growth throughout Georgia and the Carolinas, the agency remains committed to helping organizations create stronger brands, unforgettable experiences, and deeper connections with the communities they serve.
About Ghost Brands®
Ghost Brands is a full-service creative branding, marketing, and communications agency headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina. Serving clients throughout the United States, Ghost Brands specializes in branding, content creation, digital marketing, public relations, experiential marketing, website development, fan engagement, and strategic communications. The agency has become a recognized leader within the sports and entertainment industry, partnering with professional teams, venues, events, and organizations to drive growth and create lasting impact. Learn more at GhostBrands.com.
About Akins Ford Arena
Located in Athens, Georgia, Akins Ford Arena enhances the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens by providing an exceptional venue for both local and visiting guests. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, concerts, family shows, and sports tournaments, accommodating over 8,000 fans. Part of The Classic Center Authority, Akins Ford Arena is driven by entertainment and is dedicated to providing top-tier entertainment and unparalleled experience for all.