It's that time of year again for a new school wardrobe. But I'm not talking about designer jeans and sweaters, but rather new jerseys and sweatshirts in your favorite collegiate colors. Fall means college football, parties and tailgating, which requires the appropriate gear. These items and many more can all be found at Sports Authentics in Rochester Hills.

Memorabilia, clothing, and accessories represent your favorite teams. Red Wings, Lions, Tigers, Pistons, University of Michigan, Michigan State, Oakland University and Central Michigan have all found their home at Sports Authentics. The clothes are nice and the accessories are plentiful but there are two things that really make this store unique and special, the framed memorabilia and the store's involvement with local fundraisers.

Many sporting memorabilia shops have historical photos in nice frames but owners, Brian King and Thom Muir, have gone above and beyond in framing sporting treasures. Along with the photos; original tickets, programs and patches adorn these distinctive plaques. There are many examples of these unique pieces of "sports artwork" in the store. One example is the plaque of the first day that Tiger Stadium opened its doors. A beautiful picture is matted and framed along with a program of the historical day and a ticket. King and Muir also limit the number of each plaque set up to 50 to secure its rareness and even then each one is framed and matted differently.

Another specialty of Sports Authentics is its involvement with fundraising. Muir and King help their clients by putting together silent auctions for great causes. They interact with your guests providing pertinent and background information about the items; the sport personalities, history of the event, lead ups and consequences, basically, the information that will spark interest and additional bids.

Sports Authentics has been involved with charitable organizations, police and fire benefits, college and schools, local team fundraisers, and individual memorials for over sixteen years. They have interacted, supported, and assisted over 300 galas, golf outings, and events.

They distribute the product, provide credit card access and give the charity financial retribution on the same day as the event.

So whether you are in need of a new Michigan Jersey, looking for a different gift idea or need help with a fundraising event, Sports Authentics has it all!

Sports Authentics is located at 3092 Walton Blvd. Rochester Hills.

Written by Lindsey Bryant