“The impact of having our own shoes is major,” says Janiro Hawkins, Co-Founder, and Event Coordinator of the SEA. “No other awards ceremony has its own shoe. It has really helped build the SEA brand.” The idea of a shoe collection for SEA came from Gametime Athletics owner, Checliss ‘Big C’ Rice, a supporter of the event since its inception. Rice is featured on the cover of this year’s SEA program book, a commemorative issue of DV8 Magazine, the event’s exclusive magazine sponsor. “I figured the SEA shoe was a way to grow both of our brands and just a chance to do something different. And, it’s never been done before” says Rice. The concept of “never been done before” is a tradition at Gametime Athletics.

Last spring, the company introduced its line of M-Town footwear, namely dedicated to Memphis and its’ residents. Last summer, the company gained first-ever success throughout the NBA in presenting a shoe collection for Memphis Grizzlies’ fans. Gametime Athletics attributes much of its growth to the powerful opportunities developed at the Southern Entertainment Awards. “The SEA shoe is a result of the relationship we have because it’s an event that encourages the importance of networking and supporting other businesses” says Rice.

The Southern Entertainment Awards is a 4-day event that recognizes those responsible for the growth of southern urban music by highlighting the accomplishments of the top DJ’s, Producers, Recording Artists, Labels, Websites, Retail Stores, Models, and Clothing companies in the South covering all 11 states: (TN, GA, OK, TX, MS, FL, AR, AL, NC, SC and LA). The event’s top priority is to bring together music professionals, artists, DJs, fans, media outlets and more to network, build relationships and celebrate the southern culture in urban entertainment. The weekend is packed with conference sessions, artist showcases, networking opportunities and ends with an awards ceremony. The SEA features award categories such as ‘Independent Rap Artist of the Year’ and ‘Club DJ of the Year’. Last year, ‘Clothing Line of the Year’ honors went to Gametime Athletics with a repeat nomination at this year’s ceremony.

Over 2,500 people are expected to attend the 2007 Southern Entertainment Awards. “We are probably the only conference and awards ceremony that people can attend for less than $50 [Attendees receive] information and entertainment all for a low price. We have some surprises for everyone, so people will be pleased,” says Hawkins.

The limited edition SEA shoe collection is just the beginning of surprises that Gametime Athletics will unveil in 2007. Next up is “The Faceoff,” a collection that personalizes a digital image of a face on each side of the sneaker and inside its’ sole. A follow-up of last year’s M-Towns, ‘Cashville’ shoe collection for Nashville is making its official debut. Both collections are set to launch in February. More clothing is expected from Gametime Athletics as its ‘Skyline’ collection of denim jeans featuring a Memphis cityscape in metallic embroidery hits stores in April.
The SEA limited edition shoe is priced at $65 for leather and $70 for patent leather. Four styles and colors are available in all sizes. For more information on items in the Gametime Athletics catalogue or to place custom orders, please visit www.gametime-athletics.com or call 901.312.3160.