Photos by: Andy Barron | Written by: Orchee Sorker | February 13, 2025 FINNEAS kicked off his highly anticipated 'CRYING OUT LOUD' North American Tour with a sold-out performance in Music City. From start to finish, the evening was an immersive experience, blending heartfelt storytelling, masterful musicianship, and a few surprises along the way. Kicking off the night was indie-rock Bad Suns, who delivered a fiery ten-song set that had the crowd on their feet from the start. Their infectious energy set the perfect tone for the evening, with standout performances of fan-favorite hits like *Daft Pretty Boys*, *Life Was Easier When I Only Cared About Me*, and their breakthrough single, *Cardiac Arrest*. The band’s dynamic stage presence and anthemic sound ensured that the audience was fully engaged, eagerly anticipating what was to come. As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of Star ****** rang through the iconic venue, a wave of anticipation swept through the crowd. From that moment on, FINNEAS took fans on a 90-minute journey, performing 20 songs that showcased his signature blend of introspective lyricism, rich melodies, and raw emotion. The setlist spanned his career, offering everything from fan favorites like *The Kids Are All Dying* and *Let’s Fall in Love for the Night* to deeper cuts such as *Cleats* and *Sweet Cherries*. The night wasn’t just about the music; FINNEAS took time to engage with the audience, seamlessly blending brief conversations with his performances. His charisma and authenticity made the night feel personal. Towards the end of the night, the crowd erupted in cheers. FINNEAS welcomed Nashville’s own Hayley Williams to the stage for a rendition of Paramore’s *crushcrushcrush*. The surprise collaboration was an unforgettable moment, as Williams’ commanding vocals blended effortlessly with FINNEAS’ performance. FINNEAS left the audience in awe, proving once again why he is one of the most compelling artists of this generation. His ability to craft an experience that is both deeply personal and universally resonant is a testament to his artistry. As the 'CRYING OUT LOUD' Tour kicks off, fans across North America are in for an unforgettable ride.

Photos by: Katie Romo | August 11, 2025

By Camila Molina

Photographer: Maegan Grendell December 1, 2022 | Salt Lake City, Utah

Covered by Director of Press Orchee Sorker / March 6, 2022 Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN With over fifty-one cities planned, Conan Gray begins his World Tour 2022 in the beginning of March. Opening artists for his tour include Bülow for North America and Mallrat for Europe dates. With his authentic and rich vocals, fans await to watch Conan Gray perform live. His show starts with “Wish You Were Sober” and ends with the famous hit “Heather”. About sixteen songs make up his set, allowing the show length to be approximately 1.5 hours.

Photos By: Josue Cambara | October 18, 2024

Gallery by So Kim In an emotional night at Tim Hortons Field, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats paid tribute to late GM Ted Goveia and then secured a 32 - 21 win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers . Re-live the action below. These photos are owned by Hazze Media and The Hamilton Ti-Cats (CFL). They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by So Kim AFC Toronto clinched a spot in the playoffs with a dominant 7 - 0 win over Vancouver Rise FC, with goals from Esther Okoronkwo (2), Kaylee Hunter (2), Kaela Hansen, Sarah Stratigakis, and Jade Kovacevic. These photos are owned by Hazze Media and AFC Toronto. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Christina Winnegar The spotlight was on Week 3 of the SOFLO league at The Rink on the Beach (July 23–26), where teams Kodsi , Cheremeta , Vets , Kent , and Blachy  took the ice battling in a 3v3 faceoff. Whether it’s the sharp sweaters, locked-in faces, or the culture, the essence is the seasoned pros of SOFLO joining together to challenge one another. This week at the rink, another very special event happened: the Pucks for Autism charity game on Saturday. Exhibiting not only SOFLO's love for the game, but also the community. These photos are owned by Hazze Media and SOFLO Hockey League. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Allison Cho California State University, Northridge and Seattle University battled to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the matchup in Northridge, CA on September 4, 2025. From close chances to big defensive stops, both sides left it all on the field. Check out the gallery below to relive the action. These photos are owned by Hazze Media and California State University, Northridge. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Christina Winnegar The Clearwater Threshers battled against the Tampa Tarpons, leading the Tarpons to fall short in game 1 of the double-header on Wednesday, 07/30 at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Check out the full game gallery below! These photos are owned by Hazze Media and Minor League Baseball (MiLB). They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

By: Allison Cho Kendrick “KJ” Makins didn’t grow up surrounded by football trophies or blueprints for success. He was raised in a part of South Carolina where football is everything, but opportunity isn’t. The people around him weren’t always the best influences, and the road ahead wasn’t clear. But even as a kid, he understood that comfort could kill focus. “I always wanted more,” he said. “I never got too comfortable. Because I felt like as soon as I get too comfortable, I’m stuck there.” He didn’t want to survive his environment; he wanted to rise out of it. Football wasn’t just a game for KJ, as it was a way forward. He spent years watching it from a distance, asking his mom over and over to let him play. When she finally said yes, it didn’t spark tears or celebration. It sparked stillness. “I was just in the back seat, looking out the window, smiling,” he remembered. Football became his outlet, and eventually, his voice. And from that first Parks & Rec practice on, he knew that this wasn’t just something he loved. It was something he needed. Photo Provided by KJ Makins “Whatever you want to do in life, put yourself around that,” he said. “Because it’s a lot around you that may not be for you… It’s best that you be around what is inspiring you, or where you want to be in life.” From the first day KJ stepped onto a football field, it was never about being flashy but about being focused. Parks & Rec gave him a jersey and a playbook, but what stuck with him most was the structure.  “It taught me how to be a man.” It was the one place where being locked in wasn’t optional, because it was a matter of survival. “It isn’t just glitter and gold,” he said. “To be what I want to be, I gotta get it. Nothing’s gonna be given to me.” In a community where football meant everything, he began to shape his identity in between the whistles. The game taught him accountability, and it gave him something to care about. It also gave him a reason to stay sharp when things around him threatened to blur. He played everything from football and basketball to track and field. Each one pushed him in different ways, but football hit him in a particularly profound way. It wasn’t just about skill. It was about mindset.  Football was the sport that stuck with KJ, but it was the players who came before him that showed him what was possible. Players like DJ Swearinger and Josh Norman weren’t just stars; they were role models and inspirations. Their grit, intensity, and fearlessness lit a fire in him. If they could do it, he could too. Parks & Rec may have given him his first taste of the game, but by the time he reached high school, that discipline had turned into a mindset. “It’s not just talent, though,” he said. “It’s a habit. That’s what separates you.”  KJ learned early on that his work ethic had to speak louder than any highlight reel. “I’m gonna show up, and I’m gonna outwork you. Period. I don’t need to be seen. I just need to be ready.” His awareness became his armor. While other kids followed crowds, KJ watched quietly. He studied the energy in the room, the pull of his environment, and the weight of his choices.  Photo Provided by KJ Makins He never needed to announce his dreams. He just needed a chance to chase them. However, witnessing the struggles within his family made KJ realize that his journey wasn’t just about him. It was about creating something bigger than himself.  College wasn’t just a personal goal anymore. It became a symbol of breaking generational limits and rewriting the story for those who came after him, such as his nieces and nephews. Every step he took felt like it carried more weight because he wasn’t just representing himself anymore.  “I’m the black sheep,” he said. “I’m the only boy in the family outside of my cousins… Everything I’m doing, I’m the first ever to do it in my family.” This has driven him to keep going, aim higher, and redefine what was possible.  He doesn’t say it with arrogance. He says it like a quiet declaration. That’s how he carries everything: with calm, but with weight. From a young age, KJ knew he wasn’t wired like everyone else.  He couldn’t always explain it, but he felt it. A quiet intensity. A hunger to do more. A mindset that saw past limits. He especially knew it when he trained alone during the COVID-19 pandemic. When COVID shut everything down in his senior year of high school, KJ didn’t just sit around. He didn’t complain about closed gyms or canceled team lifts. Instead, he got creative.  “I was training in the front yard, backyard, around the block, and trying to get in any kind of training I could get.” Photo Provided by KJ Makins He also had some help. His longtime trainer, who had been with him since sixth or seventh grade, sent him daily full-body workouts, giving him no room for excuses. While others waited around for the world to return to normal, KJ didn’t let it slow him down. “What it taught me was: maximize what you have instead of making an excuse for what you don’t have,” he said. “If you really want it…, you have to be motivated to do it instead of trying to find the excuse of why you can’t do it.” That season became a test of how badly he really wanted it, a personal reckoning with adversity and ambition. He learned that chasing greatness isn’t easy, but it’s grit, pain, and persistence. If he wanted to be who he claimed to be, he had to earn it. Nothing was going to be handed to him. KJ trained like someone who already had something to prove. Not to anyone else, but to himself. To his future. “I’ve always been the person who doesn’t ask questions. Just do what I gotta do,” he said. “Handle what I can control. That’s just who I am.” Even when nobody’s looking, even when the circumstances don’t feel fair, KJ shows up. Football also gave him direction. “It inspired me seeing all the love people had for the game, and seeing it as a way I could go to college with a scholarship,” KJ mentioned. His teammates might have partied after games, but KJ kept his head down. He studied film and paid attention to the small details. “That’s how I learned how to win,” he said. “I watched. I learned. I moved differently.”  While others focused on the moment, KJ was already thinking two steps ahead. His play style wasn’t built on reaction but on readiness. That’s the difference that earned him his first scholarship offer as a ninth grader, a quiet reward for years of quiet work. Photo Provided by KJ Makins After his first scholarship offer, KJ’s path took him to play two seasons at Lenoir-Rhyne University. It was a stepping stone, an early test of how badly he wanted to keep climbing.  KJ’s fierce yet calm mindset in every part of his life is precisely what makes him built for one of football’s most demanding roles. Some positions allow you to blend in with the team. Cornerback does the opposite.  It puts you on an island, exposed, isolated, and responsible for every inch behind you. One mistake, and it’s six points the other way. One misstep, and it’s a highlight for someone else. “I wouldn’t want it any other way,” he said. “Corner… is one of the hardest positions. It’s a detailed position, and you gotta do everything backwards. I feel like I’m the person who can handle that.”  One moment, you’re locking down a receiver, and the next, you’re getting burned. However, for KJ, the volatility fits his personality. He’s never been the type to spiral, whether things go great or fall apart.  “That next-play mentality goes along with my position,” he explained. “There are highs and lows to it. But if you don’t have a short-term memory, then it’s kind of not the position for you.”  No matter what happens, good or bad, KJ knows he has to keep it moving. Dwelling on mistakes only makes them heavier, and getting too caught up in success leaves you wide open for the next hit. It’s about staying level and focused, always ready for the next play. KJ’s mental balance is setting him up for success. It didn’t even start on the field. It started with how he lives. “I stay true to myself, stay real with myself,” he said. “I don’t compare or try to be like anybody else. Just being who I am, trusting who I am, and never pulling away from the roots of my foundation.” He not only wanted the wins and cheers, but he wanted the challenges, the ones where the margin for error is small, and only the mentally locked in survive. That’s part of why the cornerback position stuck. The game forced him to stay sharp, humble, and ready, which also paved the way for his transfer to Houston Christian University.  Photo Provided by KJ Makins Transferring to HCU in 2023 after another two seasons meant leaving behind familiarity and comfort. He was walking into the unknown with nothing but belief, discipline, and three suitcases.  “I had three suitcases,” he said. “ I knew I couldn’t go back home, because I didn’t have anywhere to go. So I had to make this work.” This was going to be his home for the next few years, so KJ wasn’t about to waste this opportunity. He leaned on the locker room early. While he didn’t know his new teammates at first, those strangers quickly became something more. “I gained a brotherhood… those boys are still my brothers,” he said. “We came from different places. I'm from South Carolina, you from Chicago, you from Texas… but at the end of the day, we all play football, and we are trying to go to the same place in life.” Even with strong friendships and on-field growth, adversity still came. A surgery forced him to the sidelines. For someone whose identity is tied to hard work, being off the field is a significant loss. But he didn’t let it break him.  His faith never wavered, but when it mattered the most, KJ leaned into it. “The whole time I was praying. I feel like that really helped me mentally,” he said. “I wasn’t down on myself. It was just like… God got me.” That faith gave him the strength as he healed, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Even when he was off the field, he stayed in meetings, attended practices, and continued to study the game. He refused to fold. And as his body caught up with his mind, KJ started looking ahead. KJ also realized he couldn’t separate being a student from being an athlete, because if he missed an assignment in the classroom, how could he expect himself not to miss an assignment on the field? Discipline had to be holistic. He couldn’t expect precision between the lines if he didn’t live with precision everywhere else. With renewed clarity and drive, he mapped out his next chapter and took the leap earlier this year to the Big 12 stage at Baylor University for the 2025-26 season, where the lights are brighter, the pace is faster, and the competition never lets up. But even then, the pressure never rattled KJ.  What has helped him stay grounded in the transition is something different from the support he’s had in the past. “Having Nilson in my corner has meant a lot,” he said. “It’s a resource I never had… and knowing that they want what’s best for me, not just what’s best for the brand.”  This partnership between Nilson and KJ has allowed him to lean into each moment, striving to be the best person and player he can be in every aspect of his life. Photo Provided by KJ Makins KJ Makins doesn’t need flashy praise to feel validated. He doesn’t chase clout or compare timelines. He puts his head down and gets to work. In silence, adversity, and the shadows of programs and platforms, he’s been building something real. He’s never asked for shortcuts, only chances. He’s taken every challenge and setback as fuel. He trained when nobody was watching. He recovered when people thought he was done. But now, at Baylor University, he’s stepping onto a new stage with the same foundation that’s carried him from the beginning: faith, discipline, and fire.  KJ doesn’t just want to play the game. He wants to reshape what it looks like by leading by example through discipline, silence, and steel focus. Every rep is calculated, and every snap is another chance to prove that everything he has invested into the sport was worth it. Now, he’s ready to “Sic ’Em” as a Baylor Bear, knowing this isn’t the end for him, but another step toward the man and athlete he’s working to become. Disclaimer: The thoughts, experiences, and opinions shared in this article are solely those of KJ Mackins  and are based on his personal journey. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations, sponsors, or institutions with which KJ  may be associated with. To ensure accuracy and maintain context, KJ Mackins and Nilson Sports  reviewed this article before publication. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this material is strictly prohibited. For any inquiries or concerns regarding this article, please contact info@hazzemedia.com For any press/NIL/ or brand inquiries for KJ Mackins, you can contact Nilson Sports .

By Christina Winnegar Photos Provided By Cole Kodsi Growing up in South Florida, the hockey dream is like trying to start a fire in the middle of a storm. Nothing in the surrounding environment fuels your spark, yet you guard it with everything you have until, finally, the fire catches. Ice is scarce, rinks are scattered, and the sport, while growing, still lives in the shadows of those grinding on fields in cleats.  But from the time he could walk, Cole Kodsi’s world was already revolving around the ice. His dad, a native of one of the original six cities, Montreal, constantly kept the Canadiens games on television in the house. It didn’t take long before the game weaved its way into Cole’s identity as well. His love for hockey never faded. If anything, the rarity and uniqueness of hockey in Florida sharpened it. While other kids in the neighborhood took a different path in athletics, he fully embraced being the outlier. “I think it gave me a sense of pride,” he said. “It made me super determined and hungry to want to be a player that can come out of Florida and make it, while also being a role model and pave the way for younger players in Florida coming up.” His early teams were a mix of local programs, competitive enough to keep him moving forward, but average by national standards. The limited exposure meant his support system had to be all in. They were. Good coaches and mentors stepped in when the overall lack of opportunity fell short, helping build the habits that would carry him forward forever. Cole never had a moment where he questioned if he belonged in the sport. The difficulty of creating that fire didn’t isolate him; it drove him. By 14 years old, his drive to immerse himself in hockey had pulled him far beyond the comfort zone for most 14-year-olds. He left home for an opportunity at a prep school in Massachusetts, where he learned to live independently while adjusting to playing at a significantly higher level. The move meant more than a new locker room and a new roster; it meant trading the warmth of home for an entirely new culture surrounding the sport he loved.   Hockey was just as much of an adjustment to the lifestyle. The pace was faster, the expectations were higher, and the heritage surrounding the sport was different - more ingrained, more demanding.  The following year, Cole made the move to New Jersey to join the North Jersey Avalanche, one of the top 16U programs in the country. The jump in competition was immediate. “I was around some of the best players and coaches in the country at the 16U level,” he said, and the standard was relentless. Talent was everywhere, but so was accountability, taking every drill, every rep, every shift, like they were one step closer to the end of the tunnel. It was in those rinks that he began to see the potential harvest; it became his future. The attention from scouts, commitments, and recognition for all the sacrifices made in pursuit of growth continued to fuel the determination to stand out from the rest. The environment itself pushed the culture forward, and players either chose to rise to the occasion or to be left behind.  Photos Provided By Cole Kodsi When he returned to Florida at 16 years old the next year, his training took a turn that would quietly shape the rest of his career. He began skating with a small group of older Florida-born players who had already carved their paths – Brandon Duhaime, Andrew Peeke, Nico Blachman, Timmy Kent, Mark Cheremeta, among others. These were NCAA and pro-level athletes, and Cole was the young one pushing his limits to keep pace. The small 3v3 games were fast, physical, and unforgiving, but being pushed by them forced him to raise every part of his game. “I was fortunate to be around older players… all elite guys that took me in and allowed me to train with them as a younger player,” he recalls. “I recognized that I was a great player and that I needed to train extremely hard to maintain that and continue to get better and chase my dream.” That summer in Florida sharpened his edges and raised his standard for his game, and when the season rolled around, he carried that momentum with him. The next step meant taking that mindset into the national spotlight.  The junior hockey years took him to Omaha, Nebraska, where he played two seasons in the USHL, the top junior league in the United States. It was another leap forward to spark that fire. But this time, the challenge wasn’t just the speed, skill level, or unfamiliarity with seeing new faces on the bench; it was the grind. Every opponent was vying for a spot on a Division I roster, and every shift was an opportunity for coaches, scouts, and anyone watching. Cole secured that opportunity, leading to the next chapter of his career, college.  Photos Provided By Cole Kodsi This chapter proved to be anything but straightforward. Spending 3 years at Bentley University, transferring to Union University for one season, then ending with a post-grad year at Canisius University. Before the transfer portal became common among athletes, moving schools was a rare occurrence. Each change was bold and coupled with the pressure to prove his role all over again. Despite the discomfort of switching schools, one thing remained true: his belief in his success. If the moves were complex, the injuries were brutal—a broken hand, a broken wrist. Each one meant the same painful routine: building momentum, then watching from the stands while his teammates battled without him. At times when many would consider hanging up their skates for good, he took adversity as a redirection to grow. “It made me extremely grateful for the game,” Cole said. “It made me realize that at any moment it could be taken away from me… Every time I got injured, it fueled me more and more.” Those setbacks forced him to lean on mental toughness as much as physical rehab. Learning to reshape his mindset around adversity made him stronger, and without that, he wouldn’t be where he is today.  Through it all, his identity on the ice solidified. He learned how to utilize his size and power on skates as a strength, a role that shaped his position on the ice. The clarity gained after working through the hardships in that chapter unknowingly set him up for his next. Cole’s college career ended in a playoff loss, but the transition to pro hockey was immediate. “I lost in the Atlantic Hockey playoffs in college, and the next day I was on a flight to Orlando, playing the next day,” he recalled. Photos Provided By Cole Kodsi Despite transitioning with hardly a moment to spare, the jump from college to the ECHL’s Orlando Solar Bears didn’t feel overwhelming for him in the slightest. In Orlando, he found his footing quickly, as his role as a power forward transitioned seamlessly to the next level. Producing points, bringing that physical edge, even dropping gloves at one point, he was made for this. But just as momentum started to build once again, the shoulder injury cut the season short. “It was upsetting for sure,” he shared. “I wouldn’t say it was necessarily easier [because I’d been through it before], but being in that position gave me the confidence and belief to know I will be back soon and better and stronger.”  While his playing career progressed, another project quietly took shape. The project had been growing its roots in the background for years: the founding of SOFLO Hockey.  The same rink in Pompano from the summer Cole was 16 years old, wasn’t anything glamorous at first: a small sheet of ice, bright overhead lights, and the sound of skates cutting into the ice. Most days, it was the same group of friends, sometimes swapping jerseys to switch up the teams. There was just a bench and the heart that came with growing the sport in South Florida.  At first, it was just about hockey –pure, raw competition with no cameras and no audience. But word began to travel. Soon, what once was just training in the offseason with friends who became family turned into NHL players lacing up their skates alongside the next generation of stars, all sharing the same sheet of ice with a mutual love of the game. Over time, the Instagram account, created primarily for laughs, where they would post quick clips and interviews — nothing polished — evolved into something greater. The more they posted, the more their following grew. Before long, what had started in that small rink in Pompano was attracting sponsors, media crews, and a growing roster of players from across the hockey world.  “What we’ve built in South Florida is something truly special,” Cole expresses. “A tight-knit, competitive group of elite hockey players and close friends whose bond goes back years. That kind of chemistry creates a culture that naturally spreads… It doesn’t matter who you are. You bring your game, not your name.” Founding and running SOFLO hasn’t become just a small part of himself. It has changed his life entirely, introducing him to another aspect of his identity: an entrepreneur.  When it all began, it was small. Now, in the summer of 2025, it has evolved into managing a media team, over 100 to 150 players, sponsors, merchandise, ticket sales, and more. A lot of different layers to tackle, as well as being one of the athletes showcased on the ice himself. Cole’s gone from designing logos and coordinating skate schedules for fun to working with brands, negotiating partnerships, and figuring out how to keep the energy fresh as each summer rolls around.  The business side of himself gave him something hockey alone couldn’t: balance. “When you’re thinking about the game too much… you start to overthink,” Cole said. “SOFLO allows me to get away from that side of the game… It’s good for me.” It becomes as much of a mental outlet as it does physical, constantly sharpening those parts of himself in a creative yet active environment. A place where he goes during the summer, and his competitive spirit remains, but the joy of the culture comes first.  Nothing about his journey has been easy; people have been writing his aspirations off from the very beginning. “Kid from South Florida, ‘he’s not gonna play Division I.’ Then I play D1. A couple injuries, a little bit of adversity, ‘he’s not gonna play pro.’ Now I’m playing pro. Same with SOFLO.At first, people were laughing at it… I see visions, I write them down, and then they (come) to fruition,” he remembered.  At his core, Cole is driven by competition, connection, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. He wants SOFLO to inspire the next generation of Florida players to chase opportunities fearlessly, blocking out the noise. And when his playing days are over, he hopes to be remembered not just for his stats on the ice, but for the culture he helped build. Hopefully, one that will outlive him. In Cole’s story, the spark became a fire, and the fire became a legacy. It was the determination in his spirit, the kind that keeps showing up even when the odds are stacked against him—the true mark of a hustler’s ambition.  Disclaimer: The thoughts, experiences, and opinions shared in this article are solely those of Cole Kodsi  and are based on his personal journey. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations, sponsors, or institutions with which Cole  may be associated with. To ensure accuracy and maintain context, Cole Kodsi reviewed this article before publication. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this material is strictly prohibited. For any inquiries or concerns regarding this article, please contact info@hazzemedia.com

By : Ezzah Rafique Talent:  Tajh Barnes Stylist: Jai Simmons -  @jaimaofficial Stylist Assistant: Jadah Noelle - @jadahnoelle Photographer: Tiffany Le - Le @tiffanyy_le MUA/Grooming: Dre -  @makeupwdre What first sparked your passion for fashion at such a young age, and how did your childhood experiences shape your creative vision?  TB : I think being from Miami definitely sparked my acknowledgment of the importance of being fly. Miami is all about flossin, so the way to get respect in any room without even saying a word is having that sh*t on. My parents were also super fly and always kept me laced in the finest garments. I recently found a bag of all my old clothes from a child — Geanfranco Ferre, Moschino, etc. I was super shy growing up, so I always used fashion and creativity as an outlet to express myself, and gained a lot of notoriety What challenges did you face breaking into the fashion industry from Miami, and how did your background influence your approach?  TB : Being from Miami, I feel like there’s a ceiling when it comes to breaking into the industry. I wanted more than just “hood fame”. I was well respected by everyone in my city but having travelled all over the world and scrolling social media, I knew there was more. Although I would travel to Paris frequently for vacation, I wanted to start attending these fashion shows and be respected by these fashion houses— make a name for myself in this industry. My mom always said if you’re going to do anything, do it to the best of your ability or not at all,  so I knew I had to take things up a notch.   What is your process for conceptualizing a look, whether for yourself or a client?  TB : I think it’s all about a feeling—How you feel yourself, and the feelings you want to invoke in others. I wish I had a cooler story for my process, Lol How do you balance creativity with the needs and personality of the person you’re styling?  TB : I love when a client gives me 100% creative control and trusts me. If there’s ever a client [who] is more opinionated, I always try to come to a happy medium. If the client isn’t happy or comfortable, no matter how “good” the look is, the uncomfortability will overshadow the clothes. It’s all about a feeling– confidence  Were there any behind-the-scenes challenges or surprises you encountered working on high-profile projects or events? TB : This industry is always last-minute! More times than not, there’s behind-the-scenes chaos before big events.  Q: Can you share a behind-the-scenes story from a shoot or event that captures the collaborative energy of your work? TB : A former client of mine was receiving the Global Icon Award at the VMA’S and we co-designed a look with Dolce Gabbana. The Dolce atelier team flew in from Milan maybe 2 days before, and we had to re-dye and re-design the look at least 5 times before we got the exact silhouette and shade of red that the client approved. We also had to spray paint shoes minutes before the client hit the stage in, of course, a very specific shade of red to match the look.  What key insights or skills did you gain from your time assisting the City Girls’ stylist and scaling up to work with Kollin Carter and Law Roach? TB : I first learned that styling was an actual career once I met Kat Lee, and she showed me the ropes. I’ve had so many “firsts” with Kollin, and getting a peek into how the fashion and entertainment industry really works after having done countless red carpet events, fashion weeks, and Met Galas, sharpening my eye and aesthetic along the way. Whether working or just having conversations with Law, I learned so much about the psychology and business side of doing what we do. I advise anybody aspiring to work in fashion to buy his book; he drops so many gems!  How did their leadership or creative process influence the way you now work with clients or collaborators?  TB : It was a blessing getting to witness Kollin in real time, having to sometimes make something out of nothing with little time, and how he handles each situation with total peace and confidence, which then rubs off on the clients. Law taught me the psychology and finesse behind being a stylist and dealing with clients. Seeing it in real time was even more dope! We had to dress a very notable actress for a red carpet and didn’t have many options. The way he worked the room and sold the look to the client was incredible! He later told me, it’s all about the feeling you give them—confidence! And of course, the look has to be good.  Did any of your experiences on the runway inform your work as a stylist, and vice versa?  TB : Both dressing clients in runway garments, and walking them down the runway myself, definitely confirmed for me that it’s all about a feeling and emotion you are trying to invoke with fashion. Fashion is supposed to be fun! Sometimes you wear things to certain events, or on a runway that you would probably never wear on your own time in your personal life, but it’s fun to “step into character” and sell it.  Where do you see your career evolving in the next few years? TB : God willing, I am in a position to retire in the next few years. Lol. After having accomplished major milestones, of course — Hollywood Reporter Cover, Vogue coverage, etc, just like Law Kollin. I often joke with my friends that I am on a mission to complete the “Holy Trinity” of Fashion. Haha Are there new creative directions or associations you hope to explore?  TB : I would love to creative direct and consult with luxury brands. I think it would be dope to see someone “of the culture” and actually in the streets, hearing what people want and seeing what people are wearing, in the offices making decisions. I also want to do something in the culinary space. I’m a great cook! Not sure if that means having my own restaurant in the future, but whatever God has planned for me, I'm sure it’ll be greater than anything I can ever imagine.  How did it feel to see Teyana Taylor wear your design in her "Undercover" music video? What initial emotions did you experience? TB : I couldn’t believe it! I’ve always admired Teyana and all of her many different artistic outlets, so for her to include my designs in her music video was really special to me. Later, getting to collaborate and work with her almost 7 years later was a full-circle moment.  Looking back, what are you most proud of in your journey so far? Do you have any upcoming projects you are most excited to share? TB : I am most proud of never giving up when things got tough. And I mean up and moving to LA and sleeping in cars, tough. I now see the Hollywood sign from my balcony and have credits in some of the most iconic moments of our time. I've been approached to take on a couple [of] new clients for tours and fashion weeks which, although is very exhausting, it’s always a good time. I love what I do.

By Christina Winnegar Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports Dreams manifest under the stadium lights, but for Trevon, it didn’t begin there. Times before the pressure of the dream came to fruition, the field was blank. He was nothing more than a young boy, wearing a helmet, with his eyes closed, visualizing the room that felt as big as a stadium to him, unaware that it would soon become his tangible future. Before talks of being on a team were even a thought, football had already managed to wrap itself around his imagination. His path, born in childhood innocence, carried him through the pain of injury, the politics of recruitment, and silence. Years later, with the weight of the armor he’s worn both on and off the field, that same dream now carries him into his final shot at chasing the life he has always imagined. For every great story of grind and gratitude, there is a meaningful moment or person that shapes everything for them. For Trevon, it was his godfather.  Moving in with him at ten years old taught him not only to envision his love for the game but also taught him how to live it. The structure, work ethic, and toughness he didn’t just preach; he lived them. “He showed me what hard work and dedication are,” he said. And Trevon watched closely.  The hustle continued, fueled by the lessons he watched through his own eyes growing up.  His journey's hunger for growth started casually, with Sunday runs at East Field, where Trevon and his cousins would run alongside grown men twice their size. They’d let him tag along, but not for long; it soon became a realization. He wasn’t there to watch on the sidelines; he belonged in the game. Although he was still years away from putting on pads, these recreational games, meant for family bonding, became tests along the way. Continuously driving him further down his field of dreams. No whistles. No recruitment pressure. No highlight reels. Just a kid proving his gift for the game. When the time rolled around for Trevon to join leagues, there were no such things as growing pains. He was already playing up, mentally, physically, and competitively. What began as pretend football with a helmet and playing pickup games with his family on Sundays rapidly turned into reality. He was no longer modeling the older players; he was outperforming them.  At the beginning of his teenage years, Trevon began playing flag football with his goddad, along with grown men, many with college, and even professional experience within the game. In one of his earliest games, he scored four touchdowns. Despite his goddad being the quarterback, the spotlight belonged to Trevon. “I just remember dominating…just to go out there at 14 years old and dominate like that…I knew that I had a real chance,” he said.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports The confidence wasn’t without intention: it was built upon results. Before high school, Trevon had a long list of credentials, but the majority of players don’t experience it until much later on in their careers, if at all. Even when he played quarterback in his Little League, he went on to break the rushing league record, all without throwing a single touchdown pass. It was all in the way the turf grounded him. All instinct. All heart. Even in the time spent away from the field, he was always finding ways to remain one with the game. Spending hours dominating Madden, crafting scenarios in which he was already living the reality of his dream. “Playing Madden when I was younger…just creating myself in the game, and feeling like I was a part of the NFL already,” he recalled. To others, it might’ve seemed like a kid being a kid. But with Trevon’s character, it was all a play into what was to come.  Dissimilar to all of his early successes, Trevon’s high school career was a reminder that talent alone doesn’t guarantee opportunity. The silence sometimes allows skills to cultivate, to continue to foster, turning skill into something unimaginable.   Starting at Central Tech, playing strictly defense, wasn’t what he had imagined. However, he stayed patient, trusting the process. Then came the shift, combining all of the high schools, creating the now Erie High. Trevon no longer commanded attention. Going from the loudest voice in a quiet room to a faint whisper in a sold-out stadium.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports That changed in Week 7.  Moving to defensive back late in the season, he made it impossible to overlook him. Picking off five passes in five games, including one in the District 10 Championship against a powerhouse like McDowell. Erie won that title by a single point.  “I remember just getting that opportunity my sophomore year, and I felt good, I felt confident, but that was DB,” he stated.  Following this high came junior year, and with it, the injury that nearly changed everything. Juggling playing quarterback and DB, Trevon separated his AC joint nearly two weeks into the season. The timing was unforgiving. Interest from schools like Iowa and Northern Illinois had begun to build as he showcased his growing talent. But as soon as he was labeled injured, it went quiet. Very quiet.  “That was very challenging… Little did I know that was only the start of those kinds of backtracking events happening in my life,” he reflected. With his arm out of commission and in recovery, he focused on training his legs, focusing on footwork, and showing up even when he wasn’t snapping the ball. With time, the pain subsided, and he debuted his return to the turf just in time to finish out the final two games. Ending the season strong with over a hundred rushing yards and a touchdown, against a major opponent, the team that ultimately went to the state championship.  That off-season, he didn’t rest; he tirelessly pushed to rebuild.  “I dedicated my whole summer to just training for football…I knew that this had to be a big year for me, and it was one of my last opportunities,” Trevon said.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports In his final year, Trevon delivered the unspoken promises to himself and the turf. He racked up over 1,000 rushing yards, 800+ passing yards, 28 total touchdowns, and more than 2,000 all-purpose yards, factoring in returns and receptions. But despite the numbers, the D1 offers he wished for still weren’t coming in, at least not for offense. Coaches wanted him on defense. However, Trevon knew better. That senior season confirmed what he had always felt. He wasn’t meant to react to plays; he was meant to make them. College was meant to be the catalyst. Instead, it became a crash course in patience, pain, and perseverance.  Trevon committed to Mercyhurst, a Division II program with solid competition and a chance to keep developing in an offensive position. However, in line with his story, this didn’t come easily. He had to prove himself in practice, fight for his way into the rotation, and wait longer than desired to touch the field. This was hard but manageable in his eyes, a problem that could be untangled with hard work, a method he was familiar with. What came next in his story hit harder. Right when things were finally starting to click, Trevon suffered a Jones fracture, a break in his foot that would put him in the shadow on the sidelines again. Another opportunity slipping through his fingers, another season gone before it ever truly started.  “So when I finally felt like it was my time to have that big year, came the Jones fracture, and it kind of set me back. And that was mentally challenging too, because it’s like, setback after setback,” he recalled. Despite the familiar feeling, Trevon refused to sit in the negativity. “Mentality is like… You can’t focus on the negative stuff, especially in a situation like that. So I just tried to think positively and realize, okay, I can get this season back from a redshirt, and it doesn’t count towards me that way,” he expressed. While he went through the grueling process of healing an injury again, he never stopped with his can-do mindset. He continued to sharpen his mind. He poured time into film, studying other wide receivers, and found ways, no matter how small, to grow while his body recovered. For Trevon, football has never been just a game; it’s been a lifestyle.   Then came the moment that could’ve broken his spirit.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports After transferring from Mercyhurst and committing to Clarion University, he was still recovering and trying to figure out the next step in pursuing a Division I career when he received the news. Mercyhurst was going to upgrade to Division I.  Not only was this tough news to process alone, but it also came with a lot of noise. “I had a lot of people who were at school with me, kind of mocking me. I had people prank calling me and stuff like that. It was kind of crazy,” Trevon recalled. At that moment, it would’ve been easy to quit. To lose focus. To let his mind drift toward the idea of having a backup plan. But he never did. Trevon looked inward and forward. “It was a lot on me mentally…especially because I’ve always dreamed of playing Division I football. And then the school I was just at, transferring up… that took a toll on me, kind of. But the same thing — I just had to be grateful for the situation I was in. I was still playing college football at the end of the day. It’s not a lot of people that get to do that,” he expressed. Rather than dwelling on what he couldn’t control, he kept working, kept believing. And when Clarion finally gave him a shot, he took it without looking back.  Clarion proved Trevon could lead an offense. The stats spoke for themselves. Ranking 7th in the nation at the D-2 level in receiving yards per game and 8th in total receiving yards. The tapes showed it. But even after having a standout season, providing Clarion with an answer to the explosive offense they were in search of, he knew his journey wasn’t finished. Deep down, that little boy with the helmet on the blanket still wanted to chase something bigger. Division I still mattered. When he entered the portal for the second time, Trevon wasn’t walking in with question marks anymore; he was walking in with proof. He let the numbers do the talking. And this time, schools were tuning in.  Tennessee-Martin was next on the list. However familiar to the rest of Trevon’s journey, the transfer did not come easily. He was faced with yet another adversity off the field, one, according to the Ohio Valley Conference, that made him ineligible to play. After countless phone calls to receive the credit waiver needed to get him back on the sidelines, Trevon had had enough. He walked into the compliance office and refused to walk out until they provided him with what he needed to be where he belonged.  Though his time spent there was short-lived, he left with fulfillment. Taking the practice film from the spring into his third time entering the portal, it began circulating. “I dominated in the spring at UTM as well…And I had all that film, so I was posting that and just showing, I can produce,” Trevon says. Coaches were beginning to see more than they ever had before. The film leaves a lasting impression. Across each chapter of his journey, the unwavering presence of Trevon’s agency played a big factor in getting to the destination he’s dreamed of. Working tirelessly behind the scenes to help him navigate the transfer portal, credit evaluations, and the compliance issues that often derail careers. Their support, combined with the commitment of UTEP, led him right where his path had been pointing all along.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports Finally, after all of the consistency, perseverance, and more importantly, the chances Trevon took on himself, the call finally came from his current home, UTEP. “They shot an offer quick without even knowing, like, the situation that I was in. I didn’t even know myself,” he expresses. However, what mattered more than any offer was what followed: consistency. While other schools faded or dragged their feet during his eligibility process, UTEP’s drive to make a spot for him on their roster never wavered. “Through that whole situation, they stayed consistent… They stayed by my side and tried to help me figure things out, as well as letting me know that I was needed in the program,” Trevon shared.  As a result of all of the hours, the dedication, and the sacrifices, UTEP finally gave him what he had been chasing for all along: a platform. One to prove what he could do, not despite his path, but because of it.  With Trevon’s arrival at UTEP, he wasn’t showing up as just a wide receiver. He was a seasoned voice, a leader, a man of his faith, and the kind of teammate who doesn’t just show up on the screen; he shows up for people. Years in the game, along with the shadows on the sidelines, gave him perspective. He’s seen just about everything in his career thus far: injuries, comebacks, transfers, and doubted dreams.  However, Trevon’s pursuit of football isn’t just about his successes; it’s proving something much more profound, to himself, to his support system, to the silent supporters, wondering if it’s still worth chasing the thing they love. He is quite the opposite of shy when it comes to his goals, writing them down, speaking them out loud, and living by these mantras every single day. The dream of playing in the NFL isn’t just a fantasy; it’s a routine. Woven into the simplest ways of life, how he wakes up, trains, and makes his way through the world.  “Literally, it’s everything to me… I’m willing to do whatever it takes. Obviously, if you look at my journey, you know that I’m not scared to take necessary risks… to put myself in uncomfortable situations,” Trevon expressed.  There is no Plan B for Trevon, not implying he lacks perspective, but instead meaning he’s fully committed to Plan A. And that commitment had carried him through things that many would’ve walked away from when confronted with. The multiple injuries, transfers, lost opportunities, and noise met with silence.  Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports True in his character, it is not just about reaching the league; it is also about paying tribute to the people who have always supported him. Trevon often mentioned his family, wanting to be a light for them. And for anyone else with a complicated journey who may believe their setbacks disqualify them from a comeback.  Trevon’s story began on a blanket. A little boy, a helmet gifted, the vision that felt bigger than his mind could imagine. Not knowing what it would take, the trials and tribulations that he’d have to learn to navigate, but he always knew who he wanted to be when he laced up his cleats. And now, all these years later, he’s still chasing that same version of himself. Only now the helmet fits, the field is real, and the stakes are everything. Photos Provided By Trevon Tate & Nilson Sports His journey did not lead him here by accident. He is here because he never stopped showing up for the grind, his teams, and his younger self. Every obstacle he faced didn’t test his will, but sharpened him. Digging deeper into his love for the game. The kind of commitment that comes with Trevon’s mentality might scare some people, but not him. Because even if draft day comes and he doesn’t get that call, he’s prepared to reshape and revise in any way to be in that stadium, with “Tate” jerseys filling the stands someday.  But first, he’s going to give everything he has to this season, his last chance, because the goal has never, and will never, change. The weight of the dream remains, but the helmet still fits just fine.  Disclaimer: The thoughts, experiences, and opinions shared in this article are solely those of Trevon Tate  and are based on his personal journey. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations, sponsors, or institutions with which Trevon  may be associated with. To ensure accuracy and maintain context, Trevon Tate and Nilson Sports  reviewed this article before publication. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this material is strictly prohibited. For any inquiries or concerns regarding this article, please contact info@hazzemedia.com For any press/NIL/ or brand inquiries for Trevon Tate, you can contact Nilson Sports .