GEORGIA SWARM TO PLAY SPECIAL “HOME AWAY FROM HOME” GAME IN ATHENS AT AKINS FORD ARENA

DULUTH, Ga. (October 13, 2026) – The Georgia Swarm, the state’s professional lacrosse franchise, announced today that the club will host a “Home Away From Home” game in Athens, Georgia, the team’s second such event following last year’s game in Edmonton. The game is part of a broader initiative to expand the reach of professional lacrosse and bring the Swarm closer to fans across Georgia.  

The Swarm will play at Akins Ford Arena on Saturday, January 23, at 7:30 p.m. ET. Prior to the game, pregame events, in-arena giveaways, and an elevated atmosphere will be featured to give Athens-area fans a full introduction to National Lacrosse League action. 

“The Georgia Swarm are excited to bring the highest level of professional lacrosse to Akins Ford Arena this January,” said John Arlotta, Georgia Swarm Owner. “The Athens community will love experiencing the best lacrosse players in the world competing in a fast-paced, physical game that showcases incredible skill and athleticism. Combined with the energy of the arena, music and the Swarm’s signature goal celebration, it’s an exciting, family-friendly experience that we believe will create new lacrosse fans of all ages.” 

The Athens date builds on the Swarm’s efforts to expand its footprint beyond metro Atlanta and introduce the sport to new communities across the state. Fans can expect the same in-game entertainment and family atmosphere that has become a staple of Swarm home games at Gas South Arena, now brought to a new market.  

“We are thrilled to welcome the Georgia Swarm to Akins Ford Arena this January,” said Paul Cramer, President/CEO of The Classic Center Authority. “We’re excited to experience the energy that professional lacrosse will bring to the arena during this special home game. With the Athens Rock Lobsters bringing professional hockey to Athens and the Athens Crush making football a year-round experience in Athens, we’re proud to offer our community the opportunity to experience a variety of sports right here at Akins Ford Arena.” 

Tickets for the Athens Georgia Swarm game go on sale Friday, October 16, at 10 a.m. ET on AkinsFordArena.com & georgiaswarm.com. Additional information on the pregame event, giveaways, and ticket packages will be announced in the coming weeks.  

About the Georgia Swarm: The Georgia Swarm has been Georgia’s professional box lacrosse team since 2016 and competes in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), the world’s premier professional indoor lacrosse league.   

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.