Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Iowa does not have a bear population; it will occasionally get a wandering bear from neighboring states. Now, Iowa wants more bears in their state, Chicago Bear Fans, that is, and the whole organization. Iowa enters the fray with lawmakers pitching the “Iowa Bears." In a surprising turn for the ongoing Chicago Bears stadium saga, Iowa has officially entered the race to become the next home of the historic NFL franchise. On February 10, 2026, a group of Republican state senators introduced Senate File 2252, a bill specifically designed to lure the team across the Mississippi River by offering massive financial incentives for a new world-class facility. The "Hail Mary" Proposal The proposed legislation seeks to expand Iowa’s Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program. Originally intended for advanced manufacturing and biosciences, the bill would modify the program to include professional sports stadiums costing $1 billion or more. If approved, the Bears could receive a suite of incentives, including: Sales and tax refunds Qualifying investment tax credits Withholding tax credits Public infrastructure support for roads and utilities "While Illinois and Indiana squabble over this issue, we are ready to get off the sidelines and into the game," stated Senator Kerry Gruenhagen, one of the bill's primary sponsors. Location and Logistics Proponents of the bill, including Senator Scott Webster, have suggested the Quad Cities, specifically the Iowa side near Davenport or Bettendorf, as the most logical location. Webster argues that a stadium in eastern Iowa would serve as a central hub, drawing fans not just from Chicago but also from Des Moines, Madison, and St. Louis. However, critics point out significant geographical hurdles. The Quad Cities are approximately 130 miles west of Chicago's suburbs, a nearly three-hour drive. For comparison, the furthest an NFL team currently plays from its namesake city is the San Francisco 49ers, whose Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara is roughly 42 miles away. A Three-Way Border War Iowa’s late entry transforms the stadium search into a three-state competition: Illinois : Currently the frontrunner. Reports on February 9, 2026, indicated that Governor J.B. Pritzker and state lawmakers are nearing a deal to provide infrastructure funding for a $5 billion domed stadium and entertainment district in Arlington Heights . Indiana : Has already passed legislation to create the Northwest Indiana Sports Authority. Recent proposals include "Halas Harbor" in Portage  and potential sites in Gary  and Hammond . Iowa : Pitching "tax certainty" and a conservative regulatory environment as the ultimate alternative to Illinois' "punitive" climate. The Chicago Bears have not yet commented on the Iowa proposal. While the team’s primary focus remains on the 326-acre property they already own in Arlington Heights, President and CEO Kevin Warren has confirmed the search is wide open due to past property tax stalemates in Cook County.  Sources close to the negotiations expect a final decision on the team's future home within the next few weeks, as both Indiana and Illinois stake their claims in this evolving saga of professional football.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Boulder Flatirons   will not take the field during the 2026 season, as the Front Range League  has announced that the team will go on hiatus due to a shortage of available home dates at Scott Carpenter Park. The Flatirons were created when the league assumed control of the Boulder 64s (Collegians)  franchise last September and began building a new expansion team. The decision to form the Flatirons followed the prior ownership's transfer of the franchise to the Front Range League, citing their inability to manage multiple teams. In a surprising twist, the former ownership of the 64s resurfaced, claiming rights to the Collegians brand. To avoid a prolonged dispute over what the league viewed as a low-value entity, the Front Range League opted to move forward with the Flatirons, maintaining a willingness to share Scott Carpenter Park. Initially, league officials proposed an alternating schedule, and the City of Boulder committed to ensuring a fair distribution of available dates. However, the Collegians later submitted a request for 30 home dates, significantly exceeding their typical allotment of 8 to 10 dates. Granting them priority as returning tenants further complicated matters, as most of these sought-after dates fell on valuable weekends. With only a few scattered weekday openings left, the Front Range League concluded that the Flatirons could not support a viable season in 2026. Looking ahead, the league plans to regroup and continue collaboration with the City of Boulder, aiming to launch the Flatirons in 2027. The long-term vision remains to provide affordable, family-friendly baseball at Scott Carpenter Park and establish a strong presence within the Boulder community. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos Courtesy of Populous The Buffalo Bills will walk into a brand-new Highmark Stadium this season. In an era defined by billion-dollar domes and multi-purpose entertainment complexes, the new Bills stadium was designed for football and to embrace the area’s cold and brutal winters. A More Intimate, Intense Fan Experience Newer venues, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, and US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, all feature retractable or fixed roofs for all-weather events, synthetic turf, glass-heavy designs, and multi-use functionality for concerts, festivals, and global events. They’re designed to make money, even after the last snap is taken for the football season. However, Buffalo chose a different angle when constructing its modern stadium - it won’t have a roof. Proposed stadium projects in Cleveland , Nashville , and Chicago all feature a covering over the stadium. The Buffalo region receives 95 inches of snow annually. Wouldn’t a roof be mandatory? The exterior features 4,400 steel panels perforated with holes shaped like the Bills’ charging buffalo logo. They manipulate airflow by disrupting wind patterns, slowing gusts before they enter the seating bowl. This reduces wind chill for fans and minimizes interference with gameplay—especially important for quarterbacks like Josh Allen. Photos Courtesy of Populous Design for Comfort, Despite Being Outdoors The stadium’s canopy incorporates one of the largest snow-melt systems in the NFL. When snow begins to fall, sensors activate a hydronic heating system that pumps hot water through pipes embedded in the canopy. This melts snow on contact and radiates heat downward toward spectators. Additional heating systems are installed beneath the playing surface and within the concrete seating areas. These systems keep both the field and seating functional during extreme winter conditions. The steel canopy is also designed to trap sound from the spectators. Its angled structure reflects crowd noise toward the field, intensifying the stadium atmosphere and making communication difficult for opposing teams. The “Bills Mafia” is known to be among the most passionate and loudest in the league; the new canopy hopes to let visitors know exactly how deafening it can be during a close game. Photos Courtesy of Populous A Modern Stadium That Honors Tradition The stadium will have a capacity of 60,000, a decrease of 12,000 seats. The lower seating will allow for fans to be positioned closer to the field, increase noise levels, and provide more intimate viewing experiences (upper deck seating will be the closest to the field in the league). There will also be 5,000 to 10,000 standing-room-only sections. The stadium’s façade features iron-spot brick and pays homage to the city’s industrial past, referencing historical buildings such as the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium , where the Buffalo Sabres played from 1970 to 1996. The design creates a window open to the past and an eye towards the future. The Bills will open the new Highmark Stadium this fall, and it will symbolize the franchise’s commitment to Buffalo and Western New York, providing Bills fans with a football plant built specifically for them. It will be designed specifically for football and usher in a new era of Buffalo Bills football. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Hamilton Stadium 64 Melrose Ave. N Hamilton, ON L8L 8C1 Force FC website Tim Hortons Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 23,218 Lighting the Forge Editor's Note: On December 18, 2024, it was announced that the stadium will undergo a naming rights change, and will be temporarily rebranded as Hamilton Stadium until a new naming rights sponsor is found. In 2018, the Canadian Premier League took the pitch for the inaugural season, planting the new league as the top tier of professional soccer in Canada, outside of the three teams that play in Major League Soccer. Bob Young, the “Caretaker” of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League was instrumental in the formation of the new league. The CPL features a quota for Canadian players with the goal being to develop more Canadian soccer players. Bob Young would take the helm of one of the inaugural teams, Forge FC, which is owned by Young’s Hamilton Sports Group and play in the home of the Tiger-Cats, Tim Hortons Field. Located on the same spot where the iconic Ivor Wynne Stadium once stood, Tim Hortons Field opened in 2014 and has one of the largest capacities in the CPL at over 23,000. Forge FC has been the most successful team in the league, winning the league championship in 2019, 2020, and 2022. Food & Beverage 4 Concession options at Tim Hortons Field are limited to the lower deck on the east side, but there are plenty of options to keep fans happy. The Butcher Burger Bar, Poutine Provisions, Pizza Pizza, Stipley Snacks, and Tim Hortons are all great options. Coca-cola products are the soft drink of choice at Tim Hortons Field and Tim Hortons beverages are also available. Lincoln Lager by Bench Brewing is the feature local brew, which goes along with the other macro brews. There are plenty of options and fans will be happy. Atmosphere 4 Tim Hortons Field is located in the Stipley neighbourhood of Hamilton. It is nestled into the existing neighbourhood and essentially features two large east and west grandstands on the east and west sides. The exterior is not unattractive but is fairly simplistic. The largest gathering area is at the southeast corner of the block. The team shop can be found at this corner. Inside the stadium, the pitch runs from south to north and the main grandstand on the east side is where the majority of seating is. Club seating is on the west side, which probably gives a better view as the view from the east side has a bit of an empty feeling with the entirety of the west lower level being empty. Forge FC markings throughout the stadium are not over the top, but not invisible. Fans will surely know that Tim Hortons Field is the home of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, but they will also feel at home as Forge FC supporters. Facia on the east side features Forge banners and the “Together We Forge” mantra and markings for the 2019, 2020, and 2022 North Star Shield winners as Canadian Premier League champions are proudly displayed. One advantage to playing in a CFL stadium is the use of the excellent video board, which stands in the north end. A pleasant surprise at Tim Hortons Field was the lack of football lines for the soccer experience, making it feel a little more professional and a little more like a genuine soccer pitch. The gameday production for Forge FC is fairly simple, but not unlike most soccer experiences. Forge FC makes great use of the video board. The mascot, Sparx, can be found interacting with fans and traversing the crowd. The supporters section offers its entertainment with the chants and smoke that are typical at a high-level soccer match. Cheerleaders can be found on the pitch level or in the end leading the fans in support of Forge. Neighbourhood 2 Tim Hortons Field is absolutely a neighbourhood stadium. Located in the Stipley neighbourhood of Hamilton, on the location of the former Ivor Wynne Stadium, Tim Hortons Field suffers from the same location issues as its predecessor. Bob Young attempted to get a different location for the stadium when negotiating with the City of Hamilton, however, the long and drawn-out process ended with no change in location, only a change in orientation. There are not many spots for pre or post-game food or drinks near the stadium. The Capitol Bar and Festival Cafe are nearby. There are a couple of fast food options on Barton Street, but nothing too exciting. The best bet is to hop into the car or take public transit and head to Hess Village. The Gown and Gavel is a good selection as is the Lazy Flamingo. Other selections downtown include Electric Diner and Radius. The Canadian Football Hall of Fame is located at the club level at Tim Hortons Field and is open during non-game hours. Hamilton Place and the FirstOntario Centre are the other big entertainment spots in the city, hosting concerts and other shows and they are located downtown. A must-see experience in Hamilton is the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. For those looking for other sporting experiences, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the CFL share Tim Hortons Field with Forge FC. If lacrosse is the jam, then seeing the Toronto Rock at FirstOntario Centre is the way to go, although they will be moving to Mississauga temporarily during renovations on the arena. Also, McMaster University fields athletic teams as well. The McMaster Marauders football team plays at Les Prince Field @ Ron Joyce Stadium and the basketball team plays at Burridge Gymnasium @ Ivor Wynne Centre . Hamilton also has an Intercounty Baseball League team the Hamilton Cardinals . For fans needing to stay in the area, downtown is again the spot to be. The Crowne Plaza and Sheraton are good selections on King Street. Fans 3 Forge FC fans are among the best in the Canadian Premier League. In the 2023 season, Forge FC have attracted an average of over 5,000 fans per match, good for 2nd in the league. In the previous season, Forge attracted almost 3,500 fans per match which was good for 4th. The Forge FC supporters group, Barton Street Battalion, is found in the northeast corner of the stadium and is loud and supportive of Forge. Unfortunately, Tim Hortons Field has a capacity of over 23,000, and even a strong attendance of over 5,000 fans still leaves a massive number of empty seats for each match. Access 3 Getting to Tim Hortons Field can be a challenge. The Stipley is far from the major highways and fans coming in from out of town will have to travel through the city. It is located east of Highway 403, west of Red Hill Parkway, and significantly south of the Queen Elizabeth Way. King and Main Streets are the main access points to the neighbourhood, but both streets being one-way, means that the traffic does flow well. Parking around Tim Hortons Field is a huge issue for football games, but for the smaller soccer crowd, it is less of an issue. There are not too many parking lots. There are a couple that will charge $15 to $20 and some residents will sell their driveway for the evening. Getting there early to find parking is the best idea if bringing the car to Tim Hortons Field. Fans interested in tailgating should head early to the lot at Chapele and Lloyd, Parking Lot E. The response to the parking situation is a significant public transit effort. There are several buses that travel to King, Barton, and Cannon Streets. There are some Park and Ride lots throughout the city also. Public Transit is free on Tiger-Cat game days with a valid ticket. However, the same situation is not in place for Forge FC matches. More information can be found on the HSR website . Getting around the stadium isn’t terrible. There are many sets of stairs at Tim Hortons Field and a couple of escalators to take the pressure off of the elevators would help also. Washroom facilities are more than adequate at Tim Hortons Field. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Forge FC are a bit on the expensive side as compared to MLS NextPro or other CPL experiences. Tickets for Forge FC begin at $29 and go up to $50. Club seats go for $67. Parking is not too expensive and concessions are, although a bit expensive, offer high quality and variety. The action on the pitch is very good and Forge FC does what it can to produce a high-quality, professional product. Fans will have a good time at a Forge FC match. Extras 2 An extra mark for the 905 Derby that Forge FC enjoys with their rival York United FC. An extra mark for the success Forge FC has enjoyed on the pitch. Forge FC has won the North Star Shield three times and the regular season championship once. They have been the Voyageurs Cup (Canadian Club) Champion Runner-Up once and participated in the CONCACAF Champions League twice. Final Thoughts The spark of Forge FC has helped the fledgling Canadian Premier League grab a piece of the soccer market in Canada. The CPL continues to grow and with the success Forge FC has enjoyed on the pitch, the future looks bright for both the team and league. Fans should head to Tim Hortons Field to check out Forge FC and enjoy some soccer action. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads , and Instagram @profan9.

Photo by Matt Fiedler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Trinity Health Stadium 250 Huyshope Ave Hartford, CT 06106 Hartford Athletic website Trinity Health Stadium website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 5,500 Soccer in the Nutmeg State The Hartford Athletic has been around since 2018 and in that short span of time the USL Championship league has seen a lot of change. New teams have been added and there’s a greater buzz for soccer as a whole in the U.S.A. in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup. The Hartford Athletic call Trinity Health Stadium home and it definitely provides a solid atmosphere to take in a soccer match. At 5,500 seats, the capacity isn’t gigantic but it isn’t tiny either. It provides an intimate venue where you won’t find a bad seat to take in the action. Trinity Health Stadium, initially known as Dillon Stadium,as built in 1935. In 2018, in anticipation of the Hartford Athletic coming into existence, the city of Hartford undertook a $10 million renovation to bring Trinity Health Stadium into the modern era. The result was a stadium that is perfect for minor league soccer and a place fans should definitely check out if they find themselves in central CT. Food & Beverage 5 Trinity Health Stadium has a great assortment of food and beverage to fit nearly every taste and craving. They have a unique mix of stationary concessions and food trucks. Fans can find plenty of the usual stadium fare like popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, peanuts, and chips. There are also tasty items like southwest chicken wraps and ultimate nachos which can be found at the Fresh Classics Stand. Another great option for fans is the Wooster Street Pizza location near the entrance to the stadium. Fans call also find some specialty cocktails, wine, and an assortment of beer at the Jim Beam Cross Bar. The prices at these locations are fairly in line with the prices you’d expect to see at your typical stadium/arena but there are certainly bargains to be had. While the stationary concessions are tasty, the real crown jewel of food and beverage at Trinity Health Stadium is the food trucks. Food trucks that offer cuisine from sausage + peppers, steamed cheeseburgers, hot wings, gyros, apple cider donuts, and even Chick-fil-A can be found at Trinity Health Stadium. This is a great way to provide concessions as it allows for more options and also has the flexibility to rotate different food trucks in. So whether you’re looking for something sweet or something savory, there’s something for you at Trinity Health Stadium. Atmosphere 3 Trinity Health Stadium provides a solid atmosphere for a soccer match. The bells and whistles that you get from a soccer match are out in force. The supporters section is rowdy and gives the constant drum beat of energy that you expect from a soccer match There are also some great activities for kids at Trinity Health Stadium. At halftime you’ll see youth soccer teams on the field and a crossbar challenge where a fan tries to hit the crossbar on 3 tries. There’s also a great family fun zone area with activities like cornhole, face painting, and more! This is definitely a family friendly atmosphere where people of all ages can have a great time. If you’re expecting an intense English Premier League atmosphere you’ll be disappointed. But if you expect to see quality soccer in a family friendly atmosphere then you’ll have a great time at a Hartford Athletic match. Fans 4 The fans of the Hartford Athletic really know their stuff. They’re a smart group of fans who get loud at the right moments. While attending a game against North Carolina FC I saw a few opposing fans and none of them were being given a hard time by the Hartford Athletic supporters. So, if you’re a visiting fan you can be assured that you won’t be hassled. As is the case with soccer crowds there is a dedicated section for supporters who are loud throughout the match. If you’d like to sit near the very passionate supporters this writer would recommend grabbing a seat near them. Trinity Health Stadium has a capacity of 5,500 fans. During the 2024 season they’ve averaged 4,496 fans per contest. That comes out to an average capacity of 90% which shows the support they have in the Hartford community. As professional soccer leagues have become more popular so has the support for Hartford Athletic. Fans have also become more acquainted with the sport of soccer over the years and even more so with the ramp up to the 2026 World Cup which will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Neighborhood 3 Trinity Health Stadium is located south of the center of Hartford along the Connecticut River. The neighborhood is close to a variety of restaurants and entertainment options downtown. In the summer you could easily double dip and take in a Hartford Yard Goats game at Dunkin' Park before or after the Hartford Athletic Match. During the early and late portion of the season you could also take a trip to the XL Center to check out the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL. There are also a number of great restaurants to try while in Hartford including Salute, Trumbull Kitchen, and Black Eyed Sally’s. The area around the stadium is also home to a few great parks like Colt Park which are a great spot to take children before the match. If you’re driving to the match I would suggest trying to park in the lots immediately adjacent to the stadium. There are several lots around the stadium but some of them require a decent walk to and from the match. Access 4 Trinity Health Stadium is very easy to access. While it’s not in the middle of downtown Hartford, it’s a short drive from the center of the city. It is also located directly off of route 91 and also located near route 84. Trinity Health Stadium is an hour and 40 minutes from Providence, an hour and 45 minutes from Boston, and two hours and 20 minutes from NYC by car. The concourses at Trinity Health Stadium are fairly spacious and easy to maneuver. The only caveat is that the concession/food truck area can get crowded, particularly at halftime, so if you’re going to get food be sure to grab some before the lines get long at the half. There are restrooms located at each end of the stadium, 2 are near the concession area and 2 are near the family fun zone. If attending in the spring or later in the fall be advised that it gets chilly at night so bring a jacket to stay warm. Return on Investment 4 Taking in a Hartford Athletic game isn’t something that will break the bank by any means. Tickets can mostly be found for under $40 and there are also some free lots to park in if you’re willing to walk a little farther. If you park closer to the stadium parking is $18 on the day of the match of $15 if you purchase in advance. Fans can also score deals like $2 beer and $1 hot dogs on Saturdays and also $5 drafts before each match an hour before kickoff at the Jim Beam Crossbar. The concessions are also quite affordable and not out of the ordinary for a sporting event. For example, a southwest chicken wrap is $6, a bag of chips is $3, and a bottle of water is $5. So you’re looking at $14 for a filling meal. Fans also are getting a solid return on investment because they get to see a high level of skill on the pitch. This soccer is just a notch below MLS and there’s a lot of talent at each and every match. Throw in the fact that the Hartford Athletic has several activities to keep young kids occupied and you have the recipe for a great night that won’t hurt your wallet too much. Extras 3 One extra star goes to the the excellent Brass Bonanza goal song. It is a beautiful homage to the Hartford Whalers who used that as their goal song. A second star goes to the local flair around the stadium. From the aforementioned Brass Bonanza to the local food, there’s certainly a distinctly Hartford atmosphere. This writer recommends grabbing a steamed cheeseburger or a slice from Wooster Street Pizza. A final extra star goes to the supporters section which remained rowdy and loud for the entire match. They had the proper amount of enthusiasm without getting too wild. Final Thoughts Trinity Health Stadium has been around a long time but has been completely refreshed in the last few years and now has a vibrant and exciting occupant. The Hartford Athletic provide a great match experience to take in. From the excellent on field product, to the local food, to the activities for kids, it’s a great experience attending a Hartford Athletic match. It is definitely something to check out during the summer or early fall.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Children’s Mercy Park 1 Sporting Way Kansas City, KS 66111 Sporting KC website Children's Mercy Park website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 18,467 A Home to be Proud Of Children’s Mercy Park is home to both Sporting KC of Major League Soccer and the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League. The stadium opened in 2011 on day that saw Sporting KC and the Chicago Fire play to a 0-0 draw. Over the years, Children’s Mercy Park has won numerous awards. It is also the only venue to host the MLS All-Star Game, the United States Men’s National Team, and the MLS Cup all in the same year. The stadium has also held numerous World Cup qualifiers, Olympic qualifiers, CONCACAF Gold Cups, and international friendlies. Food & Beverage 4 Children’s Mercy Park is cashless, so plan accordingly. The park offers up a litany of different food options. I you want to know what’s available and where before heading to the game, the team’s website lists all the concessions available and where they are located. It’s a very handy feature. Further, Sporting KC also has an app that is recommended. Within the app, you can order food/drinks and pick it up thereby cutting down your time in line waiting for the food. I’d recommend the El Capitan stand. They offer a variety of Mexican food. The Chicken Hatch Chili taquitos are really tasty as are the fish tacos. If Mexican food isn’t your thing, not to worry. Being in Kansas City, there are numerous BBQ options of course including pulled pork, burnt ends, and pulled pork nachos. Additionally, chicken sandwiches, burgers, Dominos Pizza, and vegan Italian sausage are among the many other options. Typical snacks such as popcorn, pretzels, candy, etc are also available. Coke products are the soda of choice along with Bodyarmor flavors, tea, and Powerade. As for adult beverages, Goose, Corona, Modelo, Bud Light, Kona Big Wave, Michelob Ultra, wine, and a few mixed drinks are options. Overall, the food and drink options are great, although the portions could be a little bigger for the cost, which is about average of what you would pay in most stadiums. Atmosphere 4 The stadium was built for soccer so the layout inside is very easy to maneuver and logical. Concession areas are sprinkled throughout along with 32 restrooms. The stadium is bathed in blue and indigo, the colors of Sporting KC. There are no bad seats in anywhere. Many of the seats in the corners of the stadium are angled so you get a better view of the entire pitch without having to constantly turn your head. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. The supporter’s stand is on the north side of the stadium. This is general admission and sitting in this area means you will be amongst the crew that sings and chants for the entirety of the game. The south side stands are also GA and are the cheapest tickets available. Pregame festivities include a video and fireworks display when introducing the home team. This is when the supporters crew starts their singing/chanting and they don’t stop until games’ end. Once kickoff occurs, it’s all about soccer. With the constant chanting and ebbs and flows of the crowd overall, it’s hard not to enjoy your time watching the game. Neighborhood 4 Children’s Mercy Park is located just off I-435. The area is a mixture of retail and a few interesting places. Just across State Avenue is the Kansas Speedway. A great NASCAR track, it’s fun to be able to see another great sporting venue. On the property of the racetrack is the Hollywood Casino. Within the casino are three different restaurants, including “Turn 2” which gives you great views of the racetrack. There are numerous food and drink options within walking distance. Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que is a great option. Other options include LongHorn Steakhouse, El Toro Loco Mexican Bar & Grill, and Granite City Food and Brewery. With the racetrack and casino, there are plenty of lodging options including a Best Western and Hampton Inn which are right across the street from Children’s Mercy Park. If you’ve never been to Kansas City before, there is plenty to see. Take some time to explore before or after the game and make sure to see the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the World War I museum. Fans 5 As of this review, Sporting KC is averaging about 18,500 fans per game, which happens to be about what their capacity is. As such, you can expect a full house more often than not. Many fans arrive early and wait for the gates to open. Once kickoff occurs, fans are engaged and other than halftime, there is a constant buzz in the stadium. Access 4 There is a clear bag policy is effect here. The stadium is easily accessible, just off I-435. If you don’t feel like battling post-game traffic, public transportation is available and will drop you off right next to the stadium. Once inside, getting around is not an issue. The concourses are plenty wide and the restrooms are sufficient to handle the crowds. Post-game is a little slow getting out of the stadium because you have about 18,000 people heading out all at once. Plenty of ADA seating is also available. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices will average $30-$60 depending upon where you choose to sit, which seems about average for MLS. There are a few different parking options. For $20, you can park directly across the street and be out of your car and in the stadium in just a couple minutes. A little further away, you can find free parking. The final option is parking at Hollywood Casino and you can take a shuttle to the stadium. This is the best option if you want to avoid some of the post-game traffic issues that occur at every sporting event. With concession prices being the norm and the great atmosphere of the game, you get an above average return for your dollar. Extras 3 Be sure to get the Sporting KC app before going to the game. It will save some time on concessions and has other helpful hints and information. A nice feature here is that important announcements are made in both English and Spanish. Another point goes to the ushers who are very helpful and polite, whether you simply need directions or assistance carrying food and drinks to your seats. Final Thoughts I’d heard good things about Children’s Mercy Park and I wasn’t disappointed with the experience. The stadium is clean and roomy, the atmosphere provides an air of excitement, and the experience is quite enjoyable throughout. It’s not surprising that Sporting KC has won numerous awards for their presentation and stadium…this is a great place to catch a game. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram : @stadiumjwriter

Photos Courtesy of MANICA The Chicago Bears and Illinois lawmakers are negotiating a deal to keep the NFL team in Illinois, aiming to prevent a potential relocation to Indiana. This agreement centers around public funding for infrastructure improvements at the proposed Arlington Heights stadium site. Details of the Proposal The plan, known as PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes), would facilitate the Bears in financing the construction of their new stadium while allowing for negotiations on long-term property tax agreements with the local village. Key points include: Support from Leaders: Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and legislative leaders are reportedly backing the funding package. Ongoing Discussions: Governor Pritzker noted that negotiations with the Bears are ongoing and productive, emphasizing a commitment to infrastructure improvements while protecting taxpayers. Infrastructure Focus: The initiative aims to enhance the essential infrastructure surrounding the proposed stadium, potentially boosting the local economy. Competition from Indiana Meanwhile, Indiana remains aggressively seeking to attract the Bears. Recent developments include: Indiana lawmakers passed a bill establishing the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which aims to construct a new stadium near the Illinois border. Governor Mike Braun has expressed strong support for attracting the franchise, maintaining pressure on the Bears as discussions with Illinois continue. As the Indiana legislative session runs through the end of February, the situation remains fluid, with a relocation still in play if an agreement with Illinois does not materialize. Context of the Bears Relocation Plans The Bears have been exploring a move from Soldier Field to the Arlington Heights property since 2023, which includes a purchase agreement for the 326-acre Arlington International Racecourse. The team's motivations for this relocation stem from: Capacity Restrictions: The stadium has the smallest seating capacity at 61,500. Current Limitations: The current stadium has limited capacity and amenities. Revenue Generation: The desire to create a facility that can be utilized for multiple major events throughout the year. This ongoing saga will continue to develop as both states vie for the NFL franchise's future. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Subaru Park 1 Stadium Dr Chester, PA 19013 Philadelphia Union website Subaru Park website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 18,500 Sons of Philadelphia The Philadelphia Union competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Eastern Conference of the league. They began in 2010 as an expansion team. Earlier attempts to bring the MLS to the area failed at Trenton, New Jersey, and at Rowan University (also in New Jersey). The MLS is soccer’s highest level in both the United States and Canada. Subaru Park opened in 2010 in Chester, PA, and has also been called PPL Park and Talen Energy Stadium. Besides soccer, there have been “Battle of the Blue” football games played here between the University of Delaware and Villanova. The stadium has also hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship, the Major League Lacrosse’s Championship known as the Steinfeld Cup, the ACC Lacrosse Championship, and the NCAA Division I and Division III Women’s Lacrosse Championship, as well as numerous rugby matches and concerts. Chester is a city located southwest of Philadelphia towards Wilmington, Delaware, and is directly on the Delaware River. Food & Beverage 5 Subaru Park has a pretty incredible variety of food options. The concourse has a large variety of almost every food type. This is the Philadelphia area so cheesesteaks are always prevalent. Philips Steaks is a great option for this item. Chickie’s and Pete’s has as their staple item the Crab Fries. You must try them at least once. They also offer a pretty good chicken cutlet sandwich, available plain or in buffalo style. There are a few other unique options around the concourse such as Scoops N’ Smiles, P.J. Whelihans, and Chank’s Pizza Cones. Prices are normal prices for a venue of this size, which means not that cheap. Atmosphere 4 The tailgate scene in the parking lot is pretty strong. It looks like the parking lot of Lincoln Financial Field, or some other football stadium. There are many more people out there than I expected. The various supporter groups each have strong showings. Once inside the stadium, you will find a U-shaped set of three grandstands, with an additional smaller stand at the riverside. This is called the “River End” and is where the team’s supporter groups sit during the game. That area can get pretty rowdy and lively. I like that it seems like a European stadium in that the team name is spelled out in the East stand seats. Facing River at Subaru Park, Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey The main complaint is that there is only one scoreboard, located in the north end, and is hard to see for many fans. Neighborhood 1 The neighborhood is terrible. Chester is a downtrodden community that is not showing much life. The area around the stadium is safe on game days but you will not want to venture too far away. And, frankly, there is no reason to do so as there are limited local establishments worth going to. Keep to the local parking lots and areas where there are fans. The one exception at this time is The Larimer Beer Company, a short walk away from the Union’s training complex. It appears to be mainly open on game days and offers some nice drink options. No food is offered there although they may have an occasional food truck outside. Harrah’s Casino is right down Delaware Avenue from the stadium. If you are the gambling type this may be worth a visit. They offer gaming, as well as OTB and live harness racing. The track was built over a top part of the river, so it is worth checking out. There is a nice entrance plaza, where kids can expect to play some interactive games and participate in various vendor giveaways. There are additional plans calling for a riverwalk amidst other entertainment, retail, and residential projects in the area. None of these are currently close to opening. Fans 5 The most famous of the Union fans are the Sons of Ben supporter group. They were founded in January of 2007, way before the team was actually in existence. The group is a registered nonprofit, with more than 5,000 members. There are other supporter groups that crowd the River’s End part of the stadium. They all provide a great match-time atmosphere. The rest of the fans are also good. The stadium is loud and fans know and understand the sport very well. Access 3 The stadium can be pretty easy to get to. It is not far from I-95 via Route 322 towards New Jersey. If you cross the Commodore Barry Bridge from Pennsylvania you have gone too far. Delaware Avenue is the main street right by the stadium and runs north all the way to the Philadelphia International Airport. Parking is pretty expensive but is fairly plentiful. There are also shuttles to the SEPTA Chester Transportation Center for the regional train, but I don’t really think it is a popular option. There is also an Uber and Lyft-specific lot located near the stadium. Access getting out after the games is much more difficult. There will be a lot of cars slowly trying to get back onto Route 322 West. Expect delays as no one sticks around the area after the game. If coming from the south we recommend getting off I-495 in Claymont, DE, and driving through Marcus Hook, PA, and the south part of Chester, PA along US Route 13. Return on Investment 4 The parking is pricey so that drives down the return on investment. But the tickets are generally average by MLS standards. $25 to $50 will get you a seat, while the sideline seats are the best value. Extras 4 The dramatic view of the Commodore Barry Bridge makes this stadium stand out. It provides a cool atmosphere for watching the matches. While marveling at the bridge, you can also admire the River’s End seating area. That lively set of groups stands and cheers the whole match. If you can handle the constant drumming and chanting you are good to go. Tailgating is quite good at the stadium. I did not expect to see that level of support for American soccer. You should also wander around the concourse and look at the various soccer memorabilia presented. The team is really trying to be a member of the local soccer community. While in this area you should also stop by the well-stocked Union fan store to see the many ways you can support the team by wearing their merchandise. Final Thoughts Subaru Park is a well-designed soccer stadium located in a beautiful setting along the Delaware River. The only bad thing is that the neighboring areas of the city of Chester are not as idyllic as the setting.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Scotiabank Arena 40 Bay St Toronto, ON M5J 2X2 Toronto Raptors website Scotiabank Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 19,800 Jurassic Resurgence After the miracle run that saw the Toronto Raptors win the 2019 NBA Championship, the Raptors have seen plenty of change. Not all of it has been positive, and the Raptors have fallen in the standings in the Eastern Conference.  The 2025-26 NBA season has seen a resurgence, and the Raptors have moved back up and into the playoff picture.  One of the major changes for the Raptors has been in the front office.  At the time of writing, Rogers Communications was in the process of buying out the shares of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment held by Bell Media.  This will give Rogers majority control over the Raptors and all of the other sports properties in MLSE.  The Raptors were established in 1995 and were brought into the MLSE fold in 1998. Scotiabank Arena was built to be the permanent home of the Raptors after beginning their existence in what is now known as Rogers Centre.  The Maple Leafs purchased the Raptors in 1998, as well as the site for what is now Scotiabank Arena, and folded them into the newly minted Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.  A quick redesign was completed, and the arena, built on the former site of the Toronto Postal Delivery Building, would also be the replacement for the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens.  The arena opened in 1999 and has been home to the Raptors ever since, quickly becoming one of the top fan experiences in the NBA. Food & Beverage 5 Scotiabank Arena offers a culinary experience that is as good as any franchise in sports.  MLSE is very conscious of the concessions that it offers, and the Scotiabank Arena website provides a comprehensive accounting of all of the options.  All of the expected staples are available, usually found in the Food Junction stands.  Also new to Scotiabank Arena are a few grab-and-go areas.  There are many specialty stands throughout the area that take the culinary experience to the next level.  Some of these include Cherry Street BBQ, Chingchein Rice Dog, Kibo Sushi, Hogtown Gourmet Hot Dogs, Hot Stove Carve, Molson Canadian Brewhouse, Pizza Pizza, The Poutinerie, St. Patties, Tim Hortons, and Wicked Carib.  There are also a number of premium dining experiences, as well as six different bars.  Overall, it seems that there is little a fan could want that is not on the menu. Atmosphere 5 What is the actual front of Scotiabank Arena is not recognized by most.  Although the Bay Street address brings fans to the concrete and glass exterior, keeping the traditional Toronto Postal Building facade, it is the opposite side that draws fans in.  Maple Leaf Square, on the west side of the building, is the perfect pregame meeting place and is the location of the trend-setting Jurassic Park, which is full of fans watching on the massive exterior videoboard on the facade.  The iconic “Search Light, Star Light, Spot Light” sculpture, which was part of the old Air Canada Centre logo, is a focal point in Maple Leaf Square and gives the arena a unique, artistic look.  Legends Row, a series of bronze statues of Toronto Maple Leaf legends, is among the top spots at Scotiabank Arena for photos.  The Scotiabank Arena has benefited from a recent renovation.  The lower-level concourse was a focus for this round.  LED ribbon boards and a refresh of the concourse improve the cleanliness of the arena.  At Gate 5, a new production area for the pregame show, Gate 5 Live has been completed, and the Union Station gate now has an innovative LED ceiling for fans to marvel at as they enter.  The concourse does have a modern, fresh look; however, the tunnel entries to the seating bowl, which used to feature a variety of pictures of important Scotiabank Arena moments, have been replaced with a benign, uniform mosaic consistent with the Scotiabank Arena brand.  The most recent renovation also included a revamping of the 500 and 600-level suites.  Up next is the 300-level concourse, amongst other changes.  The full renovation rundown can be found on the Scotiabank Arena website. Highlights for Raptors fans in the main concourse are the Vince Carter collage, along with the Raptor Windmill Dunk bronze statue in a glass case commemorating the iconic Slam Dunk Contest Dunk from the 2000 event. The seating bowl is two-tiered, and although fans are bombarded with Maple Leafs nostalgia, there are a couple of Toronto Raptors nods.  The court is east-west oriented, and the spot to get that perfect centre court logo picture is from the south.  A huge, yet not overwhelming, state-of-the-art video board hangs above centre court.  Raptors banners hang in the centre of the arena with Atlantic Division Champions, 2019 Conference Champions, and 2019 World Champions banners to the west and the retired number 15 of Vince Carter to the east. The gameday production at a Raptors game is what one would expect for a current NBA game.  It is a constant sensory overload.  There is pretty much no downtime during stoppages in play.  Toronto’s mascot, The Raptor, takes part in the pregame introductions, signalling the opening tip with the beating of a large Raptors drum, waving flags, and taking part in promotions.  The in-house DJ, 4Corners, sets up in the west end and plays music throughout the game and stoppages.  The Northside Crew, one of the first diverse dance groups in the NBA, performs during the pregame and throughout the game.  It is probably not possible for the Toronto Raptors to pack anything else into the time from pregame to the final buzzer. Neighbourhood 5 Scotiabank Arena has a prime location that is among the best in the NBA.  Scotiabank Arena is located right in the heart of the excitement in Toronto, one of the top tourist cities in North America.  Toronto is a vastly cosmopolitan city that offers just about anything that visitors could want. The restaurant scene in Toronto is fantastic, and there are a multitude of pre and post-game spots for food and drink within mere steps of Scotiabank Arena.  Real Sports is located right in Maple Leaf Square, as is e11even.  The Loose Moose, The Fox, Miller Tavern, Taverna Mercatto, and Kellys Landing, to name a few,  are all great options that are within walking distance.  A unique dining experience fans could choose to partake in is at the top of the CN Tower, which features excellent food and the best view of the city.  Toronto is also a sports fan haven, offering a ton of other sporting options.  Scotiabank Arena is shared with the Toronto Maple Leafs , and just down the road is Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays .  Heading west along Lakeshore Blvd. will bring fans to Exhibition Place, which has BMO Field and Coca-Cola Coliseum on the grounds.  These are the homes of the Toronto Argonauts , Toronto FC , Toronto Sceptres and Toronto Marlies .  A pilgrimage to the old Maple Leaf Gardens may be of interest.  The hockey  and basketball  teams of Toronto Metropolitan University can be found here.  Just north is the University of Toronto, where the Varsity Blues have a variety of athletic teams, including hockey , basketball , and football . There are plenty of other tourist destinations in the immediate area.  The CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium are worth checking out.  The Eaton Centre is an iconic Toronto shopping destination, and there are always events going on at Harbourfront.  A trip to see the hallowed Hockey Hall of Fame is also a must when in Toronto.  Just a few blocks from Scotiabank Arena, it is arguably as good as Cooperstown and warrants multiple trips. For fans wishing to stay near the Scotiabank Arena, the Westin Harbour Castle is close.  However, any downtown option will be on the pricey side. Fans 5 For the 2025-26 season, the Raptors have averaged 18,700 fans per game and rank 11th in the NBA.  Toronto had similar attendance figures in the previous season.  Attendance was a little better during the winning seasons, but there is not too much wiggle room here.  The crowd at a Raptors game is significantly more vocal than a Maple Leafs crowd.  However, the ever-increasing cost of attending a game has left some seats empty in the lower bowl.   Access 4 Getting to the Scotiabank Arena by car will force fans to traverse the Toronto traffic, which can be a real challenge.  The Lakeshore is quite far from Highway 401 in the north, so using Lakeshore Blvd or the Gardiner Expressway to travel east or west along the lake will be required.  There are plenty of parking options around, which can be found for $20 or more. The real travesty is that the City of Toronto has not taken any lessons from other cities when events are put on.  Upon exiting Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Police are not present to aid in the movement of traffic, leaving drivers on their own to get out of downtown.  On the plus side, public transit downtown is very good. Union Station is attached to the Scotiabank Arena.  TTC subways and GO Transit trains, along with Via Rail trains, can be found here.  Fans should check the TTC  or GO Transit websites for maps, fares, and schedules. Getting around the Scotiabank Arena is not difficult; however, fans need to keep in mind that there is rarely less than a full house in the arena, and intermissions will be congested.  Washroom facilities are more than adequate, but will have lineups during intermissions as well. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto Raptors and Scotiabank Arena  websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the arena. Return on Investment 3 Toronto Raptors tickets begin at $68 for standing room in the upper deck.  There are some seats in the upper deck for just under $100, making affordability just about as much of a concern for a Raptors game as it is for a Maple Leafs game.  Parking can be found for $25, and concessions, although high quality and variety, are on the expensive side.  The return is excellent at a Raptors game, but the investment is now significant. Extras 3 An extra mark for Toronto’s claim to the very first NBA game, which was played at Maple Leaf Gardens with the Toronto Huskies and New York Knicks in 1946. An extra mark for Toronto’s celebrity factor, where Nav Bhatia has become a local celebrity sitting courtside for every game since day one.  Fans may also get a glimpse of Drake, who often sits near the Raptors bench. An extra mark for Herbie Kuhn, the PA announcer, who has been with the Raptors since the SkyDome days and brings energy and excitement to the experience. Final Thoughts The Toronto Raptors find themselves back in contention in the Eastern Conference.  Even when they were in the midst of their rebuild, the Raptors put together one of the elite NBA experiences at Scotiabank Arena, one that fans should not miss out on. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  , and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Kimmel Arena 227 Campus Drive Asheville, NC 28804 UNC-Asheville Bulldogs website Kimmel Arena website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 3,200 All in AVL Basketball has been part of UNC Asheville’s campus culture since 1964. The program began at the NAIA level before transitioning to NCAA Division I and the Big South Conference in the mid-1980s. The Bulldogs joined the league in its second season in 1984, and are among its longest continuous members, representing the Big South in the NCAA Tournament five times. Early Bulldog teams played in modest, multipurpose campus gymnasiums before moving into the Justice Center in the early 1970s. The pit-style venue became synonymous with Bulldogs basketball, serving as the program’s home for more than four decades through its NAIA years, its Division I transition, and all five NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2017 the Bulldogs moved into Kimmel Arena, a modern facility that marked a clear departure from the Justice Center. The new arena brought increased space, modern amenities, and a more contemporary game-day environment for both fans and the program.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at Kimmel Arena are a bit limited, but what’s available is stronger than expected. Just inside the entrance, a small concession stand offers a straightforward menu of pretzels, popcorn, candy, and Bulldog Rice Krispies treats – nothing flashy, but enough to cover the basics. What truly elevates the food and beverage experience here, however, is Bear’s BBQ Smokehouse. A staple of the Asheville area, with additional locations near the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Bear’s brings a genuine local presence into the arena. Brisket, pulled pork, and BBQ sandwiches anchor the menu, complemented by comfort-food sides like mac and cheese and brisket chili. Vegan options are also available via Impossible Meat, while nachos and cheese, pretzels, hot dogs, and chili dogs round out the offerings for fans looking to keep things simple. Pepsi products serve as the arena’s soft drink option, while the beer selection wisely leans into Asheville’s reputation as one of the country’s premier craft beer cities. Hi-Wire Lager, Pernicious IPA, and Highland Gaelic Ale headline the local lineup, with New Belgium’s Fruit Smash seltzer, Noble Cider, and Barefoot wines, cabernet and pinot grigio providing solid alternatives. In the end, Kimmel Arena may not overwhelm with variety, but the inclusion of Bear’s BBQ and a thoughtfully curated local beverage selection ensures fans aren’t sacrificing quality for convenience, a clear win for an arena of this size.   Atmosphere   3 Kimmel Arena’s design emulates the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains that run just outside of Asheville. From the building’s exterior to the aesthetics of the concourse and into the arena itself, the mountain influence is everywhere, even down to the tile work on the restroom walls, which echoes the ridgeline just beyond the city. Large windows along the building’s southern end even pull those mountain views directly into the arena. In addition, inside the concourse, woodwork along the walls plus curated artwork help transition the space from the neighboring Sherrill Center, while reinforcing the natural theme. The interior of the arena features a single-bowl setup, with entry points at either end of the court and open concourses running along each side. Smaller, traditional scoreboards sit in opposite corners of the arena, displaying basic time, score, and foul information, while a modest four-sided video board hangs above center court. The center-hung scoreboard carries a live game feed along with the score and game clock, serving as the arena’s visual focal point. Breaks in play are typically filled with on-court recognitions and pre-recorded music, complemented by the school’s pep band. While there isn’t much in the way of an in-game host running crowd contests or promotions, the existing elements do a solid job of filling the downtime before play resumes. The atmosphere inside Kimmel Arena is not overwhelming or particularly intimidating for visiting teams, but for an NCAA Division I venue, it generates a surprising amount of energy. That excitement is especially noticeable during key moments or in tight games down the stretch, when the building comes alive just when it needs to.   Neighborhood   4 The University of North Carolina Asheville campus sits just under five miles from downtown Asheville, a city known for its arts scene and thriving craft beer culture. Nearly 30 breweries are within walking distance downtown, with around 50 more in the surrounding area; Sierra Nevada, just south of the city, offers a striking complex, while New Belgium sits along the banks of the French Broad River. Beyond beer, the city also offers attractions for a variety of tastes – the world-famous Biltmore Estate is nearby, and the Asheville Pinball Museum adds a quirky stop. And, for the heartier soles who might be up for a winter hike, the surrounding trails provide stunning views of the surrounding area. Asheville’s arts district along the French Broad River took a major hit during Hurricane Helene and is still recovering, with some scars remaining. A debris pile that is still being processed sits at the base of the UNC Asheville campus, serving as a visible reminder of the storm’s impact on Asheville.   Fans   3 UNC Asheville typically sits in the middle of the Big South in terms of attendance, averaging around 1,200 fans per game. Those numbers climb noticeably on weekends, particularly once conference play begins. For a school with just over 3,000 students, the student presence punches above its weight; “The Blue Zoo” is consistently well-filled and paired with the pep band, the students do their part in creating an atmosphere that feels unmistakably like college basketball.   Access   4 The University of North Carolina at Asheville sits just off Interstate 26, which runs through the city and connects the city to Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Johnson City in East Tennessee. As a result, getting to the area is fairly straightforward, though navigating Asheville itself can be challenging during the evening rush. Parking for Kimmel Arena is conveniently located just steps from the main points of entry. Several lots on the north side of the facility provide ample parking and require only a short walk. Once inside, the concourse runs above the seating bowl and is rather simple to navigate throughout the game. While the crowd typically is decent sized, it rarely creates congestion on the concourse, making movement around the arena relatively hassle-free.   Return on Investment   3 Ticket prices start at $15 for reserved seats, with just a $1.50 fee added to online ticket sales. This is about standard for other programs at this level. Concession pricing is generally fair for what’s offered. BBQ items sit at the higher end of the menu, but given that much of the food selection centers around it, the prices are in line with what fans would expect from local BBQ spots.   Extras   4 The concourse is home to the UNC Asheville Hall of Fame, offering visitors a look at the individuals who have shaped Bulldogs athletic history. Among those enshrined are former men’s basketball coach Eddie Biedenbach, Major League Baseball player Ty Wigginton, and manager Mike Shildt. Also on display is the jersey of Bulldog legend Kenny George. Standing 7-foot-8, George left an indelible mark on the Asheville record book, recording the program’s first triple-double, setting a single-game record with 10 blocks, and leading all of NCAA men’s basketball in field goal percentage (69.6%) during the 2008 season. His dominance earned him Big South Defensive Player of the Year honors that same year. The rafters of Kimmel Arena recognize Bulldog postseason achievements, along with the retired numbers of Josh Pittman (4) on the men’s side and Sheila Ford Duncan (54) for the women’s program. Bulldog mascot Rocky is a constant presence on game-day, making the rounds along the concourse before tipoff and patrolling the sidelines throughout the game.   Final Thoughts Facilities at the lower levels of NCAA Division I can vary widely from school to school. Prior to the opening of Kimmel Arena, UNC Asheville played at the Justice Center, a cozy but dated, pit-style gymnasium that lacked many of the modern comforts fans now expect. Since opening in 2017, Kimmel Arena has provided the Bulldogs with a significant upgrade. The venue offers a more modern feel, additional space, and amenities that many programs at a similar level simply don’t have, improving the game-day experience for both fans and the university’s athletic programs.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 ESL Ballpark One Morrie Silver Way Rochester, NY 14608 Rochester Red Wings website ESL Ballpark website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 13,500 The Rochester Miracle Wings Editor's Note: On February 10, 2026, he Rochester Red Wings announced they had entered into a 10-year naming rights deal with Rochester-based ESL Federal Credit Union. The deal is worth $550,000 over the ten year period, with options to extend the deal for up to 30 years. Rochester, New York is the quintessential minor league city. There are few places around the country that offer a full-complement of minor league sports like Rochester does, with little competition from the big leagues or big-time colleges. At the center of Rochester’s sports identity is the Rochester Red Wings of Minor League Baseball’s International League. The Red Wings are currently the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and have been around since 1899. The Red Wings were saved in 1957 after their affiliation with the St. Louis Cardinals ended and it looked like baseball in Rochester was for naught. Morrie Silver led the 72 Day Miracle, which sold over 8,000 shares to over 200 shareholders to purchase the team and stadium and keep Rochester baseball strong. Members of the Silver family still work for the Red Wings and the street outside Frontier Field is named Morrie Silver Way. Since 1989 the home for the Red Wings has been Frontier Field. Replacing venerable Silver Stadium, Frontier Field has also been home to soccer and lacrosse. The Red Wings experience offers plenty to the baseball fan and is a must-do for baseball fans. Note: Frontier Field’s name is changing to Innovative Field during the 2022 off-season. Food & Beverage 5 Frontier Field offers some of the best concessions in baseball. There are numerous concession stands and each one has a unique menu. All of the ballpark favourites are present, of course, and there are some local favourites as well. Altobelli’s Deli offers some sub and wrap deli options; Red Osier has the Western New York staple Beef on Weck, and variations of the sandwich; Ice Cream Plus has a host of different ice cream options; Sup Dog offers Zweigle’s hot dogs and sausages. Burgers, pizza and nachos are also available at different stands. For something truly unique to Rochester, fans should head to Home Plate for a Trash Can, the Frontier Field take on the Garbage Plate. The 10th Inning bar area has a whole host of local craft beers and local Genesee beer can be found throughout the park also. Labatt Blue, which is popular in Western New York, is also prevalent in the park. It is hard to fathom that there is anything that a fan would want to eat at the ballpark that can’t be found at Frontier Field. Atmosphere 4 Frontier Field will not awe fans with striking beauty or a bevy of unique features. That being said, Frontier Field is a solid ballpark that has everything that fans would want in a Minor League Baseball experience. The exterior of the stadium is not imposing. A simple design that features a sunken field and to go with the red brick is more functional than beautiful. Frontier Field incorporates what was once an old firehouse on the left field side of the stadium for offices. Fans who enter the front gate, behind home plate, will be welcomed first by Rochester baseball legend, Morrie Silver and a couple kids, in bronze statue form. There are also some original seats from old Silver Stadium that can be used as a meeting place for friends and family. Upon entering the stadium, fans will find more items to catch their attention. A statue of a horse made of baseball gloves, a large red wing bird and a classic bullpen cart all sit right outside of the team store, which is on the left of the main gate. The main concourse has banners for honoured members of the Red Wings including Johnny Oates, Cal Ripken Jr., Luke Easter, Morrie Silver and Mr. Rochester Baseball, Joe Altobelli. The Red Wings Hall of Fame can be found on the right field side and is worth some exploring for members of memories past. Also, a high school baseball hall of fame can be found. Upon exiting, on the left field side, fans can pass the bronze statue of Joe Altobelli. The seating bowl for Frontier Field is a separated, two tier seating area with some of the left and right field side seating covered with some sun protection. Alternative seating including berms, pavilion and picnic areas are also available. The sightlines at Frontier Field are excellent; there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Frontier Field has videoboard beyond both left Center and right Center field. They are probably coming to the end of their lives, but do the job. Often, videoboards try to cram so much information on at a time that the result is text that is too small to easily see. The Red Wings are not guilty of this and feature pitching statistics on one board and hitting statistics on the other. The outfield wall in left Center displays the retired numbers of Jackie Robinson, Luke Easter, Joe Altobelli and Morrie Silver. The number 8,222 represents the original number of shares in Rochester baseball that were sold to keep a Minor League team in the city. The ten Governors’ Cup Championships are on display on the wall in right center. The gameday atmosphere is not over-the-top in Rochester as it is in other Minor League venues. The staple promos are there including the mascot race (featuring Joe Altobelli, Luke Easter and Cal Ripken Jr.), 50/50 draw and other promos. Organ music is still a staple at Red Wings games and organist Fred Costello has been at it for a long time. Neighbourhood 4 Frontier Field is located near Downtown Rochester, just outside of the Inner Loop in the Brown Square neighbourhood. There are a few options that are close to Frontier Field, but the best bet is to hop in the car and take a two or three minute drive to the preferred destination. Some options fans may consider include the Genesee Brew House, 809 Sports Bar and Rocky’s. Over by the Blue Cross Arena, fans will find the old train station that is currently home to the Stadium Journey favourite Dinosaur BBQ. Also, it may be of interest to hit up the founder of the Garbage Plate, Nick Tahou Hots. Other sporting options in Rochester would include the Rochester Americans of the AHL and Rochester Knighthawks of the NLL. Fans could also head to Henrietta to take in some RIT Tigers hockey at the Gene Polisseni Center. The other main attraction that fans must absolutely consider taking in is The Strong National Museum of Play which is fantastic! For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Holiday Inn and Hyatt are among options that are not too far away. Fans 4 The Rochester Red Wings maintain a strong attendance and have the longevity to be envious of. The Red Wings consistently average in the top 20 in all of Minor League Baseball. They usually attract over 6,000 fans per game. Normally the fans are fairly laid back and reserved, but know when to make some noise as the intelligent baseball fans that they are. Access 5 Frontier Field is located in Brown Square in Rochester, at the junction of the Inner Loop highway and I-490. Getting to the ballpark is pretty easy. If you are interested in public transit to the ballpark, the Rochester-Genesee Transit Authority has buses that travel on Broad, Main, Plymouth and State Streets. Check out the RTS website for maps, schedules and fares. There is plenty of parking available for Red Wing games in the lots of the Kodak Tower. Parking goes for only a few dollars and the local police do a great job of making it easy to get in and out of the parking lots. The main ticketing gates are behind homeplate, in the main square by Morrie Silver Way. At times lineups can be a bit of an issue for the late purchasing crowd, so being prepared is always a good idea. Another gate for entry is near the old fire station at Morrie Silver Way and Plymouth Ave, in left field. Getting around the stadium is no problem at all. There is a spacious inner concourse, where all of the concessions can be found and an outer concourse to travel by as well. There are also plenty of washroom facilities. Return on Investment 5 With ticket prices at $13 to $17, discounted for presale, the Rochester Red Wings offer an extremely affordable product that is what every baseball fan is looking for. Parking will go for $6 ot $10 and concession prices are not over the top. The environment and laid back feeling at Red Wings games is excellent. Overall, the return on investment for a Red Wings game is fantastic! Extras 3 An extra mark for organist Fred Costello, who in 2022 set a record for his 46th season as organist of the Red Wings, the longest-reigning sports organist in history. An extra mark for Morrie Silver and the 72 Day Miracle that saved baseball in Rochester and made the Red Wings a truly community team. An extra mark for the view of the iconic Kodak building beyond left field. Although Kodak is no longer, the building is currently used by Monroe Community College. Final Thoughts The Rochester Red Wings are a cornerstone franchise in the International League. They have weathered the ups and downs of Minor League Baseball and come out the other end still strong. Fans looking for a solid baseball experience that will offer tremendous value should absolutely check out the Rochester Red Wings at Frontier Field. Morrie will be glad you came! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

The Beanpot Trophy. Photo Courtesy of the NCAA. Not that it will garner much (if any) sympathy west of the Connecticut River, but New England suffered a pretty demoralizing loss on the gridiron Sunday night. While local sports radio personalities debate whether Drake Maye can recover from the beating he took over the course of the playoffs and whether Josh McDaniels could have made better adjustments to the offense during halftime, and if the Patriots can repeat this season’s Cinderella run next year with a target placed firmly on their backs while facing a first-place schedule, the sporting calendar waits for no fan. A loss like the one suffered by the Patriots on Sunday night might paralyze many fan bases for days, if not weeks. But it’s February in Boston, and there’s one sure cure for getting over a sports hangover such as this: The Beanpot. Held annually on the first two Mondays in February, the Beanpot Hockey Tournament is the oldest and most prestigious college hockey tournament in the country. Pitting the four Division One hockey teams in Boston (Northeastern, Harvard, Boston College, and Boston University) against each other, the tournament consists of back-to-back doubleheaders on the aforementioned Mondays. The tournament dates back to 1952, having been contested at three sites: the Boston Arena, the Boston Garden, and now the TD Garden. Initially started as a way to fill a couple of empty dates at the old Boston Arena (better known for years as Matthews Arena), the Beanpot has grown exponentially since its inception. The Beanpot is Boston hockey’s unofficial championship. It almost doesn’t matter what happens afterwards in conference play or even the subsequent national tournament. In Boston, if your team wins the Beanpot, you are Boston’s college hockey champions. Ask any of the dozens of NHL players who participated in the tournament during their college days, and they will list these two Monday nights among their favorite hockey memories. Beanpot Championship Banners Hang at TD Garden. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. The winning team has its names raised to the rafters of the TD Garden, and the trophy is skated around the ice with all the reverence usually reserved for the Stanley Cup itself. The 73rd edition of the Beanpot, held this year on February 2 nd and 9 th , pits the Boston College Eagles against the Boston University Terriers in the championship game, as both teams were victorious in their openers last Monday night. It’s almost a guarantee that at least one of the teams competing will be nationally ranked, and 2026 is no different. Even in a down year for the four Boston squads, Boston College still represents at number 14, with Boston University sitting just outside the top 20. The Beanpot has been used by mediocre teams to salvage a lost season, or as a springboard to bigger things, as Boston University did last year, carrying their momentum from their Beanpot title all the way to the Frozen Four and the championship game. From a fan’s perspective, it doesn’t get much better than this. Tickets range in price from $35 to $75, and include admission to both games. Take everything you love about college hockey and multiply it by four, and you have the Beanpot experience. Four rowdy student sections, four bands, four sets of rabid fans, and a crowd of close to 17,000 make the Beanpot a bucket list item for any hockey fan, or any fan of college sports, for that matter. Beans, beans are truly good for the heart. Boston University Celebrates the 2025 Beanpot Championship. Photo Courtesy of Boston University Athletics.

Photo by Arup and David Chipperfield Architects The Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, a centerpiece for the 2026 Winter Olympics, emerged from significant construction hurdles, barely making it in time for the games. Initially troubled by delays and last-minute fixes, the arena is finally ready to host teams, though reactions from players and organizers reflect mixed feelings. Arena Condition: A Work in Progress Final touches were still being applied just days before the Olympics kicked off. The 11,600-seat Santagiulia Arena , one of the largest venues, was contentious due to ongoing construction, which led to it being described as chaotic and frantic. Reports indicated that areas within the facility were still strewn with construction materials and dust, leaving paint odors lingering in the air. Player Reactions: From Skepticism to Acceptance On the first official game day (February 5, 2026), players described the rink’s ice surface as unusually soft, making it feel like skating on an "indoor lake." Pierre-Édouard Bellemare, captain of the French team, noted the ice quality was "decent" but acknowledged that players might experience adaptations due to the unique conditions. He commented, “It does feel like you're on a lake a little bit,” referencing the shallow construction underneath the ice. Despite initial concerns, players have rallied to maintain a positive outlook. Bellemare remarked that he remained optimistic despite the potential shortcomings, saying, “It’s going to be the same for every team.” This sentiment was echoed by other players who are ready to adapt to the conditions, emphasizing that every venue presents its own challenges. Organizational Challenges and Forward Movement Don Moffatt, the ice master responsible for getting the rink ready, described his experiences as daunting, comparing it to “a horror story” filled with challenges. He faced a frantic timeline and a muddy Zamboni entrance just a few days before the opening game. However, he expressed relief at seeing the arena come together, stating that the ice's final condition was satisfactory, and he felt confident about its readiness for competition. Olympic organizers emphasized that while the arena's aesthetics may not have been ideal, functionally, it was equipped to host the scheduled matches. They assured audiences that any necessary cosmetic improvements would be made after the games, allowing the focus to remain on the athletic competition. Men's Hockey Schedule February 11, 2026 10:40 AM: Slovakia vs. Finland 3:10 PM: Sweden vs. Italy February 12, 2026 11:10 AM: Switzerland vs. France 3:10 PM: Czech Republic vs. Canada 3:10 PM: Latvia vs. USA February 13, 2026 11:10 AM: Finland vs. Sweden 3:40 PM: France vs. Czech Republic 8:10 PM: Canada vs. Switzerland February 14, 2026 11:10 AM: Sweden vs. Slovakia 3:40 PM: Finland vs. Italy 8:10 PM: USA vs. Denmark February 15, 2026 11:10 AM: Switzerland vs. Czech Republic 3:40 PM: Canada vs. France 8:10 PM: USA vs. Germany February 17, 2026 Qualification playoff rounds, 6:10 AM and 3:10 PM. February 18, 2026 Quarterfinals at 6:10 AM and 10:40 AM. February 20, 2026 Semifinals at 10:40 AM and 3:10 PM. February 21, 2026 Bronze medal game at 2:40 PM. February 22, 2026 Gold medal game at 8:10 AM. A Shared Olympic Experience The anticipation surrounding the Milan Cortina Olympics has highlighted the resilience and adaptability of athletes and organizers alike. While the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena faced a tumultuous journey to completion, both players and management are now focusing on the excitement of the games rather than past frustrations. The commitment from all involved signifies a determination to rise above the initial challenges, transforming the arena into a focal point of Olympic spirit and camaraderie. The overall sentiment is one of enthusiasm despite the hurdles, embodying the essence of the Olympic spirit: competing together amidst adversity. As attention shifts to the performance, the resilience of the Santagiulia Arena serves as a reminder of the hard work that culminates in global competition.

Championship photo courtesy of Boston College athletics All other Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 TD Garden 100 Legends Way Boston, MA 02114 Dunkin' Beanpot website TD Garden website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 17,850 The Beanpot   Some events are uniquely Boston. The Marathon. The Head of the Charles. A ballgame at Fenway. On par with these events is a college hockey tournament held every year on the first two Mondays in February. Pitting the four Division One hockey teams located within Boston’s city limits ( Boston College , Boston University , Harvard  and Northeastern ) against each other, the Beanpot is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious college hockey tournament.   The Beanpot started in 1952 as a way to fill a couple of empty dates at the old Boston Arena. Now held at TD Garden, the Beanpot is Boston hockey’s unofficial championship. No matter what happens in conference play or the national tournament, if your team wins the Beanpot, you are Boston’s college hockey champion.   In 2023 The Beanpot entered into a sponsorship agreement with Dunkin’, rechristening the tournament as “The Dunkin’ Beanpot.” This is the first time the tournament has had a title sponsor.   The TD Garden is the home of both the NBA’s Boston Celtics  and the NHL’s Boston Bruins . When the facility was under construction in the mid-1990s, plans stated the arena would be located “just north” of the Boston Garden. “Just north” ended up being nine inches away.   Food and Beverage 4   The concession experience at TD Garden has never been at the forefront of the Bruins game day routine. Over the years, the concessions have improved here in both variety and quality. But be warned that concession prices here are among the highest in the NHL.     Stands at the TD Garden are organized by their menus, so hungry fans may have to do some searching to find what they want. Vegetarian, vegan, kosher and gluten free items are available throughout TD Garden. Some of the most popular items are the oversized pizza slices from Sal’s Pizza. For some of the more unique items on the menu, head to the Test Kitchen on Level 4. A more in-depth description of the menu, including a map of all concessions, can be  found here.   Coca-Cola products are featured at TD Garden.   Fans looking for an adult beverage will have no problem finding what they want at TD Garden. Brews from local favorites Sam Adams and Harpoon Brewery are featured among the national brands. For a great selection of local brews, head to the Sam Adams Brewzone on Level 4 or the Craft Beer Garden on Level 7.    Atmosphere 5   Among the best facets of any college hockey game are the noise and excitement generated by a school’s pep band and student section. At the Beanpot, you get four of each. Not only do the players compete, but so do the student sections and the bands. It makes for an electric atmosphere. The maximum score in this category just doesn’t do the atmosphere at the Beanpot justice.   At the Beanpot, you have four schools where hockey is the premier winter sport vying for bragging rights in a city where pucks are king. Student sections compete to one-up each other in a (mostly) friendly back and forth. There is no need for piped in music here, the pep bands make sure the Garden is filled with noise during all play stoppages. Competitions between students during play stoppages add to the raucous atmosphere at the Beanpot.   Despite the fact that three of these schools are members of the Hockey East Conference, and Beanpot games do not count in league standings, these are no mere exhibition games. You would be hard pressed to find a more intense atmosphere, even during the national tournament. The battle for Boston hockey bragging rights is taken most seriously, both on the ice and in the stands.   Neighborhood 5   The TD Garden is located adjacent to Boston’s historic North End, the city’s version of “Little Italy.” While visiting, hockey fans flock to Bruin legend Ray Bourque’s restaurant, Tresca. Be sure to grab a couple of cannolis from Mike’s Pastry while here, or head to Regina’s Pizzeria, one of the top places to get a slice of pizza in the country. Many visiting fans enjoy walking down Hanover Street, taking in the sights and smells.     While many legendary restaurants around TD Garden have closed their doors in recent years, there are still plenty of dining and lodging options right just steps from the venue. The Harp, Hurricane’s at the Garden and of course, Halftime King of Pizza are just a few of the many options from which to choose. Fans looking for convenient lodging will find a Courtyard by Marriot, CitizenM Downtown and Onyx Boston all in the immediate vicinity.   Walk a few blocks further south, and you will arrive at Faneuil Hall, a collection of restaurants, shops and clubs that is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Be sure to check out the Union Oyster House, Boston’s oldest restaurant and home of the city’s best clam chowder. Statues of Celtics legends Red Auerbach and Bill Russell and be found here among all the historic sites.   Fans looking to explore Boston’s rich history can follow the Freedom Trail, which passes a few blocks from the Garden. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long brick-lined route that connects several of Boston’s most significant historic sites.  This walking tour winds throughout the city and is one of the best ways to explore Boston.   Fans 5   There is an old adage in American hockey circles that states to find the most knowledgeable, passionate fans in the United States, head to the three “M’s” (Massachusetts, Minnesota and Michigan). Having four teams from the “Hub of Hockey” matched up over two Mondays in February is an annual highlight of the Boston winter sports scene.   All four schools represent in full force for the Beanpot, with rivalries switching like some reality show based on the day’s matchups. In addition to packed student sections in the balcony, alums and local fans come out to support their teams in great numbers.   Crowds at the Beanpot annually total over 14,000 for both days, with capacity crowds not an unusual occurrence. While it is possible to get tickets at the last minute, it’s not recommended. For the best Beanpot experience, get tickets to the second Monday, when the championship is decided.   Access 3   Boston can be a difficult city to drive in, especially for a visitor who doesn’t know their way around. The best way to get to TD Garden is to take public transportation, known in Boston as the “T.” The arena is located directly on top of the North Station MBTA commuter rail station, bringing in fans from all parts of suburban Boston. For fans taking the subway, both the green and orange lines stop at North Station, right across the street from TD Garden. The $2.75 one-way fare makes the “T” Stadium Journey’s recommendation for avoiding the hassle of driving.   Although there are many options for parking in the area around the Garden it can be quite expensive to park here. The 5-level garage located directly underneath the Garden charges $65 for event parking. There are several surface lots and garages in the immediate area which charge $30-$50 on game night. Despite the Garden’s downtown location, there is little on-street parking around.   Over the years the TD Garden has undergone a great deal of renovation designed to improve flow into and around the venue as well as the creation of several new social gathering areas throughout the Garden. Some of these areas, such as the Rafters on Level 9, are among the most coveted tickets in the building.   All tickets for TD Garden events are now electronic. The arena’s bag policy prohibits all bags larger than 6” x 4” x 1.5”. The facility is cash-free and provides cash-to-card options for those without plastic. Complete details can be found here .   Return on Investment 2   The Beanpot is a single admission event, with one ticket granting access to both games. Face value of tickets run about $70-150. Tickets do go fast, but deals can be found on the secondary market. Look for big discounts on the second Monday, as fans whose schools are eliminated look to get rid of their unwanted tickets.   An unfortunate side effect of holding a tournament at an NHL facility is that you will be paying major league prices for parking and concessions. Parking at the North Station Garage will cost a staggering $65. Using parking apps to find spots in local garages and lots will reduce prices significantly, but you can still expect to pay $35 and up to park. There are no discounts on concessions for the Beanpot, and the prices at the Garden rank among the highest in the NHL.   As mentioned earlier, taking the “T” to the Garden not only saves fans the aggravation of fighting the always-present Boston traffic, but is much more economical. A one-way ticket on the T costs $2.40, eliminating the hassle of dealing with rush hour traffic and overpriced parking. The Commuter Rail drops fans off directly beneath the arena, and both the green and orange lines stop right across the street from the TD Garden.   Extras 5   The Beanpot has proven to be such an iconic event that the four schools also compete in a women’s Beanpot Tournament (the finals are also held at the TD Garden), and a baseball Beanpot played at Fenway Park. Other Beanpots have popped up over the years, including soccer, softball, basketball, lacrosse, rowing, cycling, a concert band Beanpot, a Beanpot of Comedy, and a rice and Beanpot-burrito eating competition.   The Beanpot has its own Hall of Fame, commemorating those players who have distinguished themselves over their Beanpot careers. Countless NHL players have played in the Beanpot, including Hockey Hall of Famers Joe Mullen, Fern Flaman and Cooney Weiland.   Proudly displayed among the many Bruins and Celtics banners hanging from the TD Garden rafters are a pair of banners dedicated to the men’s and women’s Beanpot. There is also a display on the concourse displaying the Beanpot trophy.   The Sports Museum is perhaps the greatest hidden sporting gem in Boston, it’s a must see for any sports fan visiting the city. Located on levels 5 and 6 of the Garden, The Sports Museum features items celebrating the city’s long and storied sports history, from the pros to high school teams. Located within walking distance of the Garden are statues honoring Boston sports icons Bobby Orr, Red Auerbach and Bill Russell.   A final point is awarded for the Beanpot Trophy presentation. Immediately upon conclusion of the championship, the Beanpot banner is lowered from the rafters and the new champion’s name is attached. When the Beanpot is awarded to the tournament champions, the players parade it around the ice just like the pros do with the Stanley Cup.   Final Thoughts   Boston’s unofficial hockey championship is the premier college hockey tournament in the nation. Combining four schools located within five miles of each other, which are annually among the top-ranked teams in the country makes for a legendary event. The Beanpot is a bucket list item for any sports fan, whether or not you follow college hockey.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith and Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Butcher Athletic Center 478 W Campus Drive Shepherdstown, WV 25443 Shephard Rams website Butcher Athletic Center website Year Opened: Unknown Capacity: 3,600 A Ram-a-Lama-Ding-Dong Shepherd University, established in 1871, serves as a public liberal arts college located in the Shenandoah Valley on the banks of the Potomac River. The campus is situated in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, a location noted for its distinction as the oldest town in the state. The university has a long-standing athletic tradition and is a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), having moved from the Mountain East Conference to face new regional rivalries. The athletics program sponsors nearly 15 varsity sports, with the Rams serving as a focal point for the local community's sporting interests. Tyson Bagent of the Chicago Bears played at Shepherd. The Butcher Athletic Center, often referred to simply as the Butcher Center, serves as the home court for the men’s and women’s basketball teams as well as the volleyball program. Opened in 1989, the facility was named to honor Harry L. Butcher, a long-serving educator and administrator at the college. Food & Beverage 2 There is one small concession stand located on the second floor of the Butcher Athletic Center. Beverage options include a variety of bottled sodas, water, and sports drinks. The setup is straightforward, designed to provide quick snacks for fans during halftime or between games of a doubleheader. A frozen lemonade vendor was also in the corner at floor level of the gym itself. Atmosphere 2 A Shepherd game is a minimalist affair. Between the basic scoreboards and the aging sound system, the 'barebones' label fits, though an enthusiastic PA announcer does his best to keep the energy high. For the best experience, grab a seat in the chair-back section rather than the general admission side. There will often be cheerleaders and a lively pep band to enhance the atmosphere. Neighborhood 2 Shepherdstown offers a distinct and historic setting that significantly enhances the travel experience. As the oldest town in West Virginia, the area surrounding the campus is walkable and filled with preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. German Street, the main thoroughfare, is located just a short walk from the Butcher Center and features a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. For dining, the Blue Moon Cafe is a popular spot among students and visitors. Located on High Street, it offers an eclectic menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and vegetarian options in a unique setting that includes outdoor seating by a stream. Another notable option is the Bavarian Inn, a European-inspired resort and restaurant perched on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. The Inn provides upscale dining with a focus on German cuisine and is a well-known landmark in the region. Visitors looking for history can explore the local museum or walk to the Potomac River to view the site of James Rumsey’s early steamboat experiments. The proximity of the campus to the downtown area allows fans to easily combine a game with a tour of the town’s historic sites. Civil War historians can drive across the Potomac River to visit the historic battlefield at Antietam, Maryland. Fans 3 Spectators are generally knowledgeable about the game and the conference rivalries. The move to the PSAC has introduced new opponents, but the loyalty of the fan base remains tied to the Rams' identity. Interactions in the stands are typically friendly and community-oriented, reflecting the small-town nature of the location. While the arena rarely reaches its full capacity for regular-season basketball games, the density of the crowd in the bleacher sections creates a respectable game-day environment. Access 3 Reaching Shepherdstown requires travel on secondary roads, as the town is situated away from major interstates. Visitors typically approach via Route 45 or Route 480. The drive offers scenic views of the West Virginia panhandle but can be slow-moving due to the two-lane roads. Once in town, the Butcher Center is located on the western side of the campus, easily accessible from University Drive. Parking is generally available in the lots adjacent to the Butcher Center and the nearby wellness center. For most regular-season games, parking is free and ample, with spaces located within a short walking distance of the arena entrance. Return on Investment 4 At just $6 for single games and $8 for doubleheaders, the pricing is a steal, and the concessions are equally budget-friendly. Extras 2  Free programs with rosters and statistics are available at the entrance. The second-floor lobby serves as a shrine to Shepherd athletics, housing both the Athletic Hall of Fame and a comprehensive trophy case honoring past achievements. Final Thoughts While the atmosphere at Shepherd University is a world away from the high-octane Division I environment found in Morgantown, its simplicity is its strength. If you're looking for honest, no-frills basketball without the grueling trek through the Allegheny Mountains, Shepherdstown offers a refreshing alternative. It may not have the bells and whistles of a major program, but the chance to catch an entire afternoon of hoops for the cost of a light lunch makes it a worthwhile destination for any local fan.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Scott's Miracle-Gro Field 96 Columbus Crew Way Columbus, OH 43215 Columbus Crew website Scotts Miracle-Gro Field website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 20,371 The House the Fans Built Editor's Note: On November 25, 2025, the Columbus Crew announced they were expanding their partnership with the Scotts Miracle-Gro company and were renaming their field for the 2026 MLS season. There was a time when the thought of the Columbus Crew relocating elsewhere was a reality, but after a campaign to keep the club in town and a new ownership group, the result would be the $314 million Lower.com Field for the club to call home. The 20,371-seat venue is located in the Arena District next to Huntington Park and a few blocks west of Nationwide Arena . The stadium offers a field with a hydroponic heater that can raise the field temperature by 20 degrees if needed and water can drain in less than 3 minutes. The Nordecke supporters section is the steepest and second-largest of its kind in the MLS while offering a beer garden on the concourse. Access has been improved with facilities a few steps away from the seating bowl and views of the pitch in a majority of the venue. The canopy roof directs the sound of the crowd directly back into the stadium, perfect for home matches for the Crew and the US Men’s National Team. The structure’s design will blend into the future 33-acre Astor Park neighborhood that will develop the underused land into a live, work, and play development over the next few years. The site will feature 404 residential apartments, a 2.5-acre riverfront park, outdoor pavilions, retail shops, and public art once completed. Lower.com Field replaced Historic Crew Stadium, the first soccer-specific facility in the MLS in 1999, located 4 miles away at the state fairgrounds. The team played its last game on June 18, 2021, and waved goodbye to an old friend that put the city on the map in terms of professional sports. However, let’s look at the future of soccer in the city and what the new venue has to offer fans in attendance. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage feature local establishments offering menu items throughout the stadium, almost 40 percent. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, Preston’s: A Burger Joint, Dirty Frank’s, Dos Hermanos, Hot Chicken Takeover, Barrio Tacos, Crafter Culture Brewing, Legacy Smokehouse, and Donatos Pizza are among the choices for fans. The hot chicken sandwiches and pieces are plump and juicy, the brisket looks like it was smoked in Texas, the hot dogs and burgers are juicy, and the street tacos are served with roasted jalapenos. There is a healthy dose of local and national breweries that feature Land-Grant Brewing Company, Platform Beer Company, and Rhinegiest. A few highlights include the haystack from Pit Masters, which is mac and cheese with your choice of pulled pork or brisket and crushed corn chips. There is also the spicy Bahama Mama from Schmidt’s served al carte or with a side of German potato salad and sauerkraut. Also, be sure to save room for one of the company’s famous jumbo cream puffs. Dirty Frank’s has a Hot Frankie topped with coney sauce, cheddar cheese, sriracha cream cheese, and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The options here are luxurious compared to other venues but also follow trends at many newer MLS grounds. Long lines form at the 42 numerous locations on the stadium’s concourse, along with a few grab-and-go spots for fans on the run. It should be noted that the prices are a tad higher for these local products, but you are also paying for the quality of the product. Atmosphere 4 Lower.com Field offers many vantage points throughout the 360º concourse, including rows 13 feet closer to the field. The stadium’s distinct feature is the large canopy roof that covers every seat in the house. The black steel design replaces the standard floodlights and features an angular pattern that connects to the club’s crest. It also helps reverberate noise back to the pitch for home-field advantage. Another mass area is the Nordecke supporter’s section which seats 3,364 people. The seating area features a rake of 34 to 37 degrees, about 70 percent steeper than the Crew old home. It is where the soul of the stadium is, with supporters waving flags, banging drums, and leading the stadium into their rendition of the Elvis classic “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” before every match. Underneath the Nordecke is a beer garden that is a spot where fans can sit down on bench tables and eat and drink their food before the game. The area features trees and is open to the public during the day when the Crew is not playing. It’s the first beer garden specifically designed for a supporters club in the league. The southwest plaza is home to pregame festivities that include concerts, games, children’s activities, and photo ops with the Crew official mascots – Crew Cat and S.C. The area is utilized on non-game days and house watch parties when applicable. The Crew House Pub and team shop are located in this corner of the stadium. The pub can hold anywhere between 250 to 300 people and opens before the game and non-game days. There are two scoreboards on the north and south ends of the stadium; the biggest is 24 feet tall and 104 feet wide. There are family spaces that include two sensory rooms, two nursery rooms, and a 1,000-square-foot playroom. Five premium areas include 34 suites on the west end of the stadium and 1,900 club suites. The Lower Lounge has 10 bunker-style luxury suites with seats at eye level to the pitch and an outdoor patio with fireplaces. Neighborhood 4 Lower.com Field is part of the Arena District that includes the home of the Columbus Clippers baseball team Huntington Park and the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets hockey club Nationwide Arena . The district offers mixed-used plan development of residential and retail space. There are more than 22 different eateries and bars located within a few steps of the building that are hopping before and after the game. The R Bar is the official hockey watering hole that sits across a small pedestrian bridge offering 16 beers on tap and 32 bottles and cans. Goodwood Brewery and Restaurant and Whistle & Key are also in this area providing outdoor seating and plenty of people-watching. If with the kids, Boston’s Pizza and Ted’s Montana Grill are two nearby choices. The indoor and outdoor concert venue KEMBA Live! and A&R Music Bar is located next to the arena, which provides an ideal later-night atmosphere. The future 33-acre Astor Park neighborhood will develop the underused land into a live, work, and play development over the next few years. Once completed, the site will feature 404 residential apartments, a 2.5-acre riverfront park, outdoor pavilions, retail shops, and public art. Fans 4 The colors black and yellow are dominant with the majority of the fans at the game. The Crew supporters and fans proved their loyalty by saving the team from relocating to Austin a few years ago. It provides a great soundtrack to the stadium’s atmosphere, and the Nordeck supporters are at the center of the revelry. Check them out as they march down Nationwide Blvd. and blow off a little yellow smoke along the way, expect to see that after a goal. Access 4 Getting inside the stadium is becoming easier with facial recognition ticketing, turnstiles where fans can scan their phones to enter, and wands to check for metal objects in their pocket without going through a security checkpoint. The menu options include frictionless and touchless environments. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket on the secondary market averages close to $39 plus taxes and fees. It also depends on the opponent, with FC Cincinnati tickets commanding a $64 fee. There are 6,300 parking spaces within a 10-minute walk with prices between $20 and $25 per vehicle. The beer and drink prices are somewhat on the high side but on par with other MLS venues. Fans should not see a huge sticker shock on menu options inside the building for top-quality foods. Extras 5 Lower.com Field earns a point for the largest supporters section in the league, the Nordecke. The area is steep and comes in at a 34-degree rake, among the steepest in the MLS. Another point of the beer garden is for fans to have a seat and enjoy something to eat and drink. The Southeast Plaza is a fantastic spot for pre-game festivities, concerts, games, and a chance to get ready for the match. A final point is for the canopied seating that protects every fan in their seat. Final Thoughts The Columbus Crew has a fine-looking soccer facility that provides fantastic views of the pitch, quality food, a boisterous atmosphere, and a passionate fanbase. The neighborhood around the facility will blossom in the coming years, making it quite the experience for hometown fans and first-time visitors. The original club in the MLS is right where they belong. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and Instagram .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Memorial Gymnasium 1201 Lions Path Rushville, IN 46173 Rushville High School website Memorial Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1926 Capacity: 2,600 A Century of High School Basketball in Rushville Memorial Gymnasium in Rushville, Indiana, has been a centerpiece of high school basketball for a century. Today, it serves as the home court for the Rushville Consolidated High School Lions. Despite being 100 years old , the 2,600-seat gym remains in excellent condition, having been carefully preserved over the decades.  The gymnasium’s origins date back to 1925, when community leaders formed the Rushville High School Athletic Corporation to raise funds for a dedicated basketball facility. Through the sale of special bonds, the group collected $27,000 toward the project.  The gym was completed the following year at a total cost of $80,000 and was fully paid off by 1944 using revenue from ticket sales. Originally designed to seat 5,000 spectators, the venue was renovated in 1988, reducing its capacity to about half that number. The first varsity game was held on February 5, 1926, in front of 4,000 spectators with a 32-21 victory over Greensburg. Memorial Gymnasium quickly became an important venue for tournament play, hosting sectional games from 1926 to 1971, regional contests from 1926 to 1958, and county tournaments from 1926 to 1968. Its presence elevated Rushville’s status as a basketball destination for many years. Both the boys’ basketball programs experienced tremendous success while calling the gym home. They captured 56 sectional titles, 19 regional championships, and one semi-state title. The boys’ team made its only state finals appearance in 1976, falling in a close 82–76 game to Marion High School.  Meanwhile, the ladies have won a state record 33 sectional championship titles, with 18 consecutive between 1980 and 1997. They reached the championship game four times, most recently in 2010, when the fell to Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran 59-48. In addition, the gym played an important role in student life, housing physical education classes when the original high school was located six blocks away. One of its most unusual features was a rifle range beneath the north bleachers, where participants would lie prone and shoot at targets—an uncommon but memorable use of the facility. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand in the lobby that offers freshly popped popcorn. Fans can grab a bag from the machine while waiting in line, then grab a bottle of Pepsi products before heading to the main stand for more items. These food options include soft pretzels, hot dogs, candy, and Pizza King pizza by the slice. These food options include soft pretzels, hot dogs, candy, and Pizza King pizza by the slice. All food options are in the price range of $2 to $4, and they accept cash and credit cards. Atmosphere 3 What Memorial Gym lacks in size, it more than compensates for with charm and a sense of history. It stands as a classic example of gymnasiums from an earlier era, once common before the sprawling facilities of the 1950s and 1960s became the norm. The small-town atmosphere is unmistakable in the moments leading up to the varsity game. The band assembles on the stage while fans drift in from the main entrance, making their way to their seats. The anticipation builds steadily—soon, it will be time for tip-off. The varsity team charges onto the court, followed closely by cheerleaders waving flags. The crowd rises as one, clapping and cheering for the Lions. The band erupts with energy as players are introduced over the P.A. system. Home supporters fill much of the seating, visiting fans gather in their designated section, and the student section packs in behind the baskets opposite the stage. The bleachers, crafted from blonde wood and meticulously maintained, form a horseshoe that rises 15 rows from the floor. Though modest in size, the seating arrangement creates an ideal basketball environment. When the crowd comes alive, the intensity is palpable, giving the home team a formidable advantage. Near the entrance, a glass display case preserves memorabilia from the former Rush County schools, with items dating back to the 1930s. Gym shoes, varsity sweaters, belted shorts, photographs, and the Good Luck Horseshoe—once awarded to the Rush County Tournament champion—offer a tangible connection to the past. Above the entryway, the original gymnasium blueprint serves as a final reminder of the building’s enduring legacy. Neighborhood 3 The gymnasium is in a residential neighborhood one mile north of downtown; there are a few places to visit before the game. The revitalized area features 19th-century buildings and includes Fish Moon Brewing . The popular gathering places offer IPAs and pub food, and across the street is th e Princess Theatre (built in 1917), which shows movies and concerts. P izza King is one of my guilty pleasures; their pies are cracker-thin and can be served with crumbled sausage or pepperoni. Just north of the gymnasium are fast food chains and restaurants; however, there are a couple of local places worth visiting. Just Rite serves burgers, chicken sandwiches, tenderloins, and salads. Mezcal Bar & Gril l offers a full bar and generous servings of Mexican cuisine. Fans 4 The fans quickly fill their seats inside the gymnasium and stand and cheer for the team as they march onto the playing court. The game has been embedded in the community for over a century, and generations of fans have attended games in the facility since 1926. There are many stories to pass on to a younger audience, and the mix of people inside varies in age. Access 3 The town of Rushville is located 40 miles southwest of Indianapolis on SR-52, a very nice drive through a few small towns in the state. The city is also 17 miles from I-74 at the Shelbyville exit. Inside, the arena access is quite efficient, and bathrooms and concessions are located in the lobby. Return on Investment 3 The price of an adult ticket is $6, along the same lines as many other high school basketball gymnasiums, and well worth the price of admission. The concession prices are low, and whenever you can watch a game in a historic facility, it is always well worth the investment. Extras 4 The gymnasium is in magnificent condition; the seats are refurbished, the lighting is sharp, the floor was installed in 2025, and the sightlines are extra close. The exterior is in spotless condition as well after 90 years of high school basketball. The court is named after former women's coach Cinda Rice Brown . She coached the Lady Lions to a 448-109 record between 1969 and 2000. Her teams captured 33 sectional championships (a record 18 straight) and made three state finals appearances during her tenure. The court was named in her honor in 2016. It is among the oldest gymnasiums still being used for high school basketball in the state of Indiana, perhaps even the country. The intimacy and proximity of the stands to the court provide a time capsule to the old-fashioned design of gyms of yesteryear. The Lions offer free gameday programs. They are filled with local ads and players' stats, and provide a nice keepsake from the game. Final Thoughts Memorial Gymnasium is the second-oldest facility still in regular use for high school basketball in the state of Indiana. After 90 years of service, the place is in fantastic condition and a pleasant diversion for a comfortable night of basketball. Many of these facilities are no longer in use and lie vacant, only for us to imagine what it must have been like; fortunately, that is not the case here in Rushville.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Meridian Centre 1 David Hawes Way St. Catherines, ON L2R 0B3 Brock University website Meridian Centre website Year Opened : 2014 Capacity : 4,030 Seeing Red Several USports rivalry games have received plenty of recent attention. The opportunity to draw a larger crowd at an off-campus venue is attractive and can be very successful when run correctly. Ottawa’s Panda Game, Kingston’s Carr-Harris Cup , Guelph’s Frosty Mug , and Calgary’s Crowchild Classic are among the most elite. St. Catharines, Ontario, and Brock University have their own. In basketball, once a year, the Brock Badgers "Paint the Meridian Red." Established in 2015, Brock has hosted a handful of different teams at the Meridian Centre. After a brief hiatus, the 2025-26 season saw the Brock Badgers host the 8th Paint the Meridian Red event. The last three events have been against the McMaster Marauders. Paint the Meridian Red is hosted at Meridian Centre in St. Catharines, home of the Niagara IceDogs  of the OHL. Built in 2014 by the City of St. Catharines, the arena was necessary to keep the OHL team in the city. The capacity for basketball at Meridian Centre is 4,030, much higher than the capacity of 1,000 of Bob Davis Gymnasium on campus, making the Paint the Meridian Red event a highlight on the Brock athletic calendar. Food & Beverage 3 Meridian Centre has a decent selection of concession items.  However, since the attendance at the Paint the Meridian Red event is significantly below capacity, several stands in the main concourse were closed at the time of writing.  Simple concession selections, including pizza, popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, and burgers, are available.  Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice at the Meridian Centre.  There is a decent selection of alcoholic beverages available, including local Bench Brewing items, Landshark, Carlsberg, Kronenburg and Happy Dad seltzers.  There is also a bar and social area at the east end, on the floor.  At courtside and in the club sections, there is an expanded menu with items that are made fresh. Atmosphere 4 The exterior of Meridian Centre is fairly simple, with silver siding on the upper portion and brown brick on the lower portion, with blue Meridian Centre highlights.  Entry into Meridian Centre from St. Paul Street will take fans across the Rankin Gateway bridge and bring them into the fifth level of the building. Fans will descend a couple of staircases down to the third level for the main concourse.   The main concourse is typical of many OHL arenas with an open concept behind the main seating bowl.  The floor is west-east oriented with the best view of the centre logo from the south.  The basketball court is pushed to the west end, which makes end seating sightlines much better than a centre configuration.  In the east end, there is a bar and social area at floor level, along with the DJ booth.  Seating in Meridian Centre consists of a lower bowl, with the east end curtained off, and an upper bowl with club seating at the west end and suites along the north and south sides.  A simple, four-sided videoboard hangs above centre court with a simple scoreclock above it.  Old hockey banners from the championships of the St. Catharines Black Hawks and St. Catharines Teepees, as well as honoured members, hang in the west end.  IceDogs banners also hang at the west end.  The St. Catharines Sports Hall of Fame is in the east concourse; however, it was unavailable for this event. The gameday production for Paint the Meridian Red is solid.  The event is a doubleheader with the Badgers women’s basketball team taking the court, followed by the men.  At halftime of both games, the Brock BLK Dance Team performed, and a minor team played a few minutes of a mini-game.  Ridley College, a local private school, provided a band that also played during halftime.  The Brock Cheer Team took part in the player introductions and performed stunts on the court during breaks in the play.  Boomer the Badger, the Brock mascot, also took part in pre-game festivities and roamed the sidelines, interacting with fans.  During breaks in play, Brock also recognized past coaches who will be inducted into the Brock Sports Hall of Fame and presented a cheque to Brock Student Union for the charity donation from the Paint the Meridian Red event. Neighbourhood 4 Meridian Centre is located in Downtown St. Catharines.  Although not the most photogenic area, there are a number of spots for pre- and post-game food and drink.  This is a selling point for the students to attend Paint the Meridian Red as they line up outside the bars after the game is over.  Some options include Merchant Ale House, Brass Monkey Local, The Office Tap and Grill, 194 Bourbon and Smoke, and Fiddler’s Pour House.  Meridian Centre is the regular home of the Niagara IceDogs  and the CEBL’s Niagara River Lions.  Other sporting options in the area include the St. Catharines Falcons of the GOHL, Niagara Ironbacks baseball, St. Catharines Athletics  , and Brock Badgers hockey .  The Badgers regularly play on campus at Bob Davis Gymnasium .  Other tourist options include the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Welland Canal, Centennial Gardens, Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm, and the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame.  There are a ton of other options in nearby Niagara Falls and several wineries in the Niagara Region.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn, Comfort Inn, and Best Western are all short drives away. Fans 4 Assessing fans in USports basketball is difficult as attendance figures are not published.  That being said, it is obvious that the attendance at the Paint the Meridian Red game is much higher than a regular Badgers game on campus.  At the 2026 event, which was reviewed, a quick estimate for attendance would be 1,500 to 2,000.  Many fans show up during or just after the women’s game.  Brock students have a reputation for being loud and boisterous; however, at the game that was reviewed, the fans were pretty timid.  This could be in part due to the big lead the Badgers took early in the men's game and held throughout.   Access 5 Meridian Centre is located in Downtown St. Catharines on David S. Hawes Way.  The Meridian Centre location is unique in that it is not at the same elevation as St. Paul Street.  The majority of fans will park downtown and take the Rankin Gateway bridge to the fifth level of the Meridian Centre.  It is not advised that fans attempt to park in the Meridian Centre parking lot, as it is mostly for staff and is difficult to get downtown.  Meridian Centre is immediately west of Highway 406, so it is not difficult to get to.  There are a few surface lots and parking garages downtown.  For fans who wish to take public transit, there are Niagara Transit buses that travel St. Paul Street.  Fans should consult the Niagara Transit  website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around Meridian Centre is not difficult, and the washroom facilities are good.  At the time of writing, patrons were required to walk through metal detectors as part of the security protocols.  Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Meridian Centre website for the most up-to-date security information, including bag policy and prohibited items, before heading out. Return on Investment 4 General Admission tickets for Paint the Meridian Red are $20.  Upper deck club seating is $30.  Concession prices are on par with other OHL venues.  Parking can be found for around $10 in the area.  Paint the Meridian Red is a more expensive ticket than a regular Brock basketball game; however, it is a unique event and provides a better atmosphere than a regular season game and is worth the extra money.  The ticket is a women’s and men’s doubleheader.  Overall, the return on investment for Paint the Meridian Red is very strong. Extras 3 An extra mark for the charity aspect of the Paint the Meridian Red event.  Portions of student tickets go to the BUSU Food First program. An extra mark for the higher profile venue for Paint the Meridian Red, making it an event for students and the community. An extra mark for the recent Paint the Meridian Red games, acting as a rivalry game.  As of 2026, the last three Paint the Meridian Red games have been against the McMaster Marauders, from just up the QEW in Hamilton. Final Thoughts Once a year, the Brock Badgers “Paint the Meridian Red” storm, downtown St. Catharines.  This basketball event is one of the elite USports basketball events and one of the few off-campus events.  Taking in the Badgers at Meridian Centre will definitely make fans See Red! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  , and Instagram @profan9.

Sometimes, the best moments in sports come as a surprise. I arrived on campus expecting to attend an IU Indianapolis Jaguars basketball game at The Jungle . But the moment I stepped through the gymnasium doors, something felt different. There had been no cancellation, no last-minute opponent change, and no scheduling confusion. Instead, the players warming up on the court were wearing a name that hadn’t represented the school in nearly three decades. The Jaguars were gone. In their place, the Metros had returned. The Return of the Metros IU Indianapolis recently brought back its Metros identity as part of a throwback uniform night , marking the second time the team has worn the retro design and the first this season. The uniforms were faithful reproductions of those worn during the mid-1980s, complete with the distinctive gold coloring and vintage lettering that defined the program’s early years. For longtime fans and alumni, the Metros name represents the foundation of IU Indianapolis athletics. For newer fans, it offered a glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of the university’s basketball history. The reaction inside the gym was immediate. The gold uniforms stood out, offering a visual contrast to the familiar Jaguars branding that has defined the program since the late 1990s. Origins of the Metros Name When the university opened in 1969, it adopted the Metros nickname to reflect its identity as an urban campus located in downtown Indianapolis. The name symbolized the school’s connection to the city and its role as a metropolitan institution serving central Indiana. The basketball program began varsity competition in 1972 as an independent before joining the NAIA in 1978. By 1980, the team recorded its first winning season, and in 1993, the program advanced to NCAA Division II competition. The Metros brand featured unique visual elements. The school’s crimson and gold color scheme paid tribute to Indiana University and Purdue University, while logos often incorporated the Indianapolis skyline, reinforcing the university’s urban identity. Despite its creative origins, the nickname created confusion. “Students didn’t know if it was a bus or whether it was a city,” student Jacob Manaloor told The Indianapolis Star  in 1998. “It’s catchy. It’s eye appealing.” ​ The Transition to Jaguars The Metros name officially retired at the start of the 1998–99 academic year, coinciding with the university’s transition from Division II to Division I and its entry into the Mid-Continent Conference. University leadership believed the athletic program needed a stronger and more recognizable identity to compete at a higher level. A student panel helped evaluate potential nicknames, including Hawks and Riverhawks, before ultimately selecting Jaguars. University officials believed the jaguar symbolized strength, speed, and confidence—qualities they wanted associated with the growing institution. “Jaguars are powerful, swift, and confident, an appropriate symbol for a campus rapidly moving to the forefront of urban higher education,” said Chancellor Gerald L. Bepko at the time. While the Jaguars nickname aligned with traditional collegiate branding, it also placed the university among many schools nationwide using similar animal mascots. The Metros name, while unconventional, had been unique. A Legacy Rediscovered Today, nearly 30 years later, the university—now known as IU Indianapolis following its 2024 rebranding—has embraced elements of its past. With enrollment approaching 30,000 students, the school continues to grow its identity while acknowledging its history. Throwback Metros merchandise has become increasingly popular among students, alumni, and collectors. What was once viewed as vague or uninspiring has gained new appreciation as a distinctive and nostalgic brand. “They’ve been incredibly well received, both from the players and fans,” said Senior Associate Athletic Director Ed Holdaway. “Obviously, the yellow/gold really pops and provides a nostalgic look at one of the most successful teams in program history.” The university previously honored the Metros identity in 2010 with gold throwback uniforms featuring a script logo. The latest version more closely resembles the uniforms worn during the program’s formative years. Honoring the Past While Looking Ahead Holdaway indicated that throwback uniforms could return in future seasons, though no official plans have been announced. As IU Indianapolis continues building its athletic identity in Division I, honoring the Metros era provides a meaningful connection to the program’s origins. For one night, the Metros lived again—not just as a uniform, but as a reminder of where IU Indianapolis basketball began. For fans in attendance, it was more than a nostalgic gesture. It was a celebration of a forgotten identity that helped shape the program’s journey to where it stands today. The UI-Indianapolis teams have worn some interesting looks while known as the Metros ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 UNO Lakefront Arena 6801 Franklin Ave. New Orleans, LA 70122 New Orleans Privateers website UNO Lakefront Arena website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 8,900 Basketball on Lakeshore Set along the southern edge of Lake Pontchartrain, UNO Lakefront Arena has never enjoyed the spotlight of New Orleans’ better-known venues; it lacks the instant recognition of Caesars Superdome , the downtown location of Smoothie King Center , or the cultural legacy and history of some of the city’s most famous music halls. However, that anonymity hides a building with a remarkably deep list of some of the city most overlooked moments in sports and pop culture. Since opening in 1983, the octagon-shaped arena has hosted plenty of history making moments. In 1984 a young rookie named Michael Jordan scored 37 points here during his first NBA season, while Larry Bird followed with a legendary 60-point performance just months later. The arena also hosted the 1991 NCAA Women’s Final Four, where Pat Summitt won the third of her eight national championships. Add in professional wrestling, UFC, high-level tennis, major concerts, film shoots, as well as visits from presidents, Pope John Paul II, and the Dalai Lama, and UNO Lakefront Arena’s resume runs deep, including surviving Hurricane Katrina, which closed the building for more than three years. Through it all, the constant has been the University of New Orleans Privateers men’s and women’s basketball teams. Founded in 1958 as the city’s first public four-year university, UNO’s basketball program began in 1968, adopting the “Privateers” nickname as a nod to New Orleans’ maritime and pirate history, most notably Jean Lafitte. The program has made five NCAA Tournament appearances and won four conference titles, most recently in 2017. Ahead of the 2025–26 season, New Orleans native and rapper Master P joined the staff as general manager and assistant coach, injecting new life and hype into a program still rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina over 20 years ago, and once again placing UNO Lakefront Arena at the crossroads of New Orleans’ sports history.   Food & Beverage   3 Food options at UNO Lakefront Arena are simple and affordable. There is one fully operational concession stand located on the west side of the arena near the main entrance, and it handles all food and beverage needs on game days. The menu sticks to the basics: catfish baskets, chicken tenders, nachos, chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage dogs, popcorn, and chips. Nothing on the menu is going to surprise you, and there are no signature New Orleans-style items that lean into the city’s culinary reputation. That said, the pricing is reasonable by modern arena standards; most food items fall between $4 and $10, making it easy to grab a meal. Beer drinkers can purchase domestic bottled beer for $9.50, while Coca-Cola is the official soft drink provider, with 20-ounce bottles priced at $4.75. What does stand out is the presentation and the way the concession stand is designed. The main concession stand is styled like a classic 1950s soda fountain, complete with vintage Dr Pepper branding and old-school counter design. It’s a cool visual touch that gives the concourse some personality and nostalgia, even if the menu itself remains straightforward. Walking the concourse you’ll see several additional concession stands scattered throughout the arena – those stands are decked out in sharp black-and-blue UNO branding, along with Bud Light and Michelob Ultra setups. Unfortunately these other stands remain closed for UNO basketball games due to limited attendance. It’s a shame, because the spaces themselves are attractive and clearly designed for a more vibrant environment.   Atmosphere   3 The first thing you notice when arriving at UNO Lakefront Arena is its unmistakable shape. Much like Southeastern Louisiana’s Pride Roofing University Center  up the road, this is not a typical looking arena. Instead, UNO Lakefront Arena stands out with its distinctive octagonal, almost spaceship-like design, which immediately gives it character before you even step inside. There is one main entrance on the west side of the building, reached by a winding concrete ramp that brings fans up to the doors. The exterior grounds are also well maintained, helped in part by the hundreds of palm trees that surround the facility. With Lake Pontchartrain visible in the distance, the setting provides a scenic backdrop. Once inside, the venue feels impressive for a building that has been standing for more than 40 years. The concourse wraps completely around under the seating bowl, allowing fans to circle the entire building with ease. Along the way, plenty of UNO signage, banners, and reminders of past tournament appearances help reinforce the program’s history. Even the closed concession stands blend neatly into the concourse, featuring blue-and-black exteriors that match the Privateers’ color scheme. In addition, another neat thing you’ll see if you look up at the ceiling along the concourse is a timeline of all the arena’s past events, built into the ceiling tiles – some of the tiles are even autographed by that particular performer or band. Once in the seating bowl, one feature that stands out is the facility’s low ceiling surrounding the seating bowl, with wide open space above center court. From the upper rows fans sit close enough to the roof that it almost feels within reach. This design gives the building a more intimate feel than you might expect in an 8,900-seat arena. Even with only a few hundred fans in attendance, the space avoids feeling cavernous because the seating remains tight to the floor. The interior acoustics also benefit from this layout, as sound travels extremely well throughout the building, creating a louder atmosphere than the crowd size might suggest. Every seat is also a blue chairback, and combined with the bright blue court, the entire arena is draped in UNO’s signature blue-and-black identity. Above the court banners celebrate accomplishments from both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, along with three retired numbers honoring former greats. In addition, a major new addition for the 2025-26 season is the installation of a brand-new 20-by-11-foot video board hanging above center court. The original scoreboard was damaged during Hurricane Katrina and removed, leaving the arena with only a small replay board on the side for nearly two decades. When Master P took over leadership of the program, however, he helped finance this impressive new LED videoboard, finally giving UNO Lakefront Arena a modern videoboard, complete with HD replays.   Neighborhood   4 UNO Lakefront Arena is located in the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans, away from the many tourist areas like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. However, you can still find plenty to do nearby if you want to experience a quieter side of the city, with less traffic and more locals. Less than 100 yards behind the venue you’ll find many people fishing, boating, walking and riding bikes along the over 6 miles of paved walking trails, nestled along the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Make sure to check out Mardi Gras Fountain along the way, which lights up in Mardi Gras colors at night, or you can check out the remains of old Fort St. John, an abandoned Spanish controlled fort located along the lake and Bayou St. John. The New Basin lighhouse also makes for a great spot to visit and take a tour.  While riding the trail you can also see some of the levees that failed New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina; getting an up-close look at these levees, which were the scene of so much destruction, is a surreal experience in itself. Another popular spot to check out in the area is City Park – if it’s a gorgeous day you can spend all day in one of the largest public parks in the U.S., and the 20th-most visited park in the country. There’s so much to do here: two regular golf courses, a disc golf course, multiple stadiums, and miles of trails that flow through the bayous and lagoons that make up City Park. Also, inside the park there’s the Museum of Art and the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden. If you have kids or are visiting family, you might want to check out Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland, a small amusement park with roller coasters and a few carnival rides. You can take a gondola ride or a duck boat ride through the lagoons, and there is also access to Bayou St. John, which is the main tributary through the city. The bayou is a popular spot for kayakers and people canoeing during the summer months. You can also hop on the streetcar in City Park and go to the French Quarter, Uptown, or anywhere else in the city. Another cool attraction to check out in Gentilly is Fairgrounds Race Course, the second-oldest horse racing track in the country. If you come to a game at UNO Lakefront Arena on the weekend, then there is a good chance that horse racing will be going on at the Fairgrounds. Or, for restaurants near UNO’s campus you’ll find plenty of local spots and dives that aren’t as well-known as some of the French Quarter institutions. Some of my favorites include Opelousas Seafood, The Original Fiorella’s Cafe, and Walker’s BBQ, famous for its BBQ po’boys, while closer to the horse track and City Park you’ll find plenty of other favorites like Parkway Tavern, Liuzza’s at the Track, Cafe Degas, and Seahorse Saloon. City Park also has a Cafe du Monde location, which is a lot quieter and less crowded than the chain’s more popular French Quarter location.   Fans   2 With Master P stepping into the program in 2025 as general manager and assistant coach, the Privateers have gained a level of exposure and energy that the once-struggling program had not seen in years. Attendance during the most recent season hovered just under 1,000 fans per game. While that number may seem low on paper, it represents a noticeable improvement compared to the post-Katrina years, when the program’s future was uncertain and there was even talk of dropping UNO athletics down to Division III. The fans who do show up, however, are fully invested. Because many UNO graduates remain in the New Orleans metro area after college, the crowd tends to lean heavily toward alumni rather than current students – even in smaller numbers, these fans bring real passion and familiarity with the program. The game presentation also helps keep the atmosphere lively. The Privateers cheerleading squad does a strong job engaging the audience, while Captain Bruno, the school’s pirate mascot, works the aisles to keep energy high throughout the night. Adding to the local flavor, UNO also embraces its New Orleans identity with a soundtrack that feels true to the city. Expect plenty of bounce music, along with artists like Lil Wayne, Big Tymers, and naturally, a steady dose of Master P echoing throughout the arena.   Access   3 UNO Lakefront Arena is located on the north side of the city, away from most of the tourist sites in New Orleans like the French Quarter. There are several ways to get here, but the best and safest way would be to take the Franklin Ave or Elysian Fields exits off Interstate 610, then travel north for about three miles and you’ll see UNO Lakefront Arena straight ahead. Your GPS may advise you to go through some of the rough areas in New Orleans East to get to campus, but I would not take that route, especially at night. Also do not take the Chef Blvd or Morrison Road exits off the Interstate, unless you are absolutely familiar with the vibes of the city. Once on the grounds you will find plenty of parking surrounding the arena; the only issue is most of the parking is in a large grass lot, which may get muddy after heavy rain. The best part, however, is that parking is free, and once inside the facility you can walk around the entire building and sit anywhere you want – as there won’t be a big crowd, there is plenty of room to spread out and walk around. The venue also has excellent sightlines, except for the upper rows, which may have views obstructed by the low ceilings.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets to UNO basketball games are usually easy to come by, since UNO Lakefront Arena rarely sells out. Honestly, the best option is to just buy them in person at the box office. General admission tickets are only $10 there, while on the secondary market you can sometimes end up paying $20 or more, especially for bigger conference matchups. One of the nicest surprises about attending a game here, though, is that parking is completely free. When you pull up to the arena, parking attendants are out directing cars into a huge open lot, so it’s simple to find a spot, and you don’t have to worry about getting boxed in. Also again, there is no charge for parking at all. Concessions here are solid, even if there aren’t any signature New Orleans-style menu items. The setup does have a cool old-school charm though, with a classic soda fountain feel that stands out compared to most modern arenas. For a lot of fans, a lower-level game with fewer than 1,000 people in the stands might not feel like a must-see event, but if you’re someone like me who enjoys visiting historic venues in a city as iconic as New Orleans, there’s still something memorable about the experience. It’s probably the most iconic building in the Southland Conference, when it comes to legendary figures who’ve played here and the iconic events the venue has hosted.   Extras   4 One extra for rapper Master P taking over the program as the general manager/assistant coach. Not only did he help finance the new videoboard ahead of the 2025–26 season, but he also remains an active presence on game nights, sitting courtside with the team. Before tip-off, Master P also often takes time to meet with fans and pose for photos. His involvement has made him a true ambassador for both New Orleans and UNO basketball. The New Orleans Privateers have had seven players selected in the NBA Draft, with eight former UNO players appearing in NBA games. The most recent draft pick was Michael McDonald, taken in the second round by the Golden State Warriors in 1995. The program’s most famous NBA alum, however, is Ervin Johnson, a 1993 first-round pick who played 13 seasons in the league and has his jersey retired at UNO Lakefront Arena. Another major bonus of UNO Lakefront Arena is the sheer variety of events it has hosted over the decades; as mentioned earlier, this venue carries a truly storied history. It served as a temporary home for the Atlanta Hawks during the 1984–85 season, welcoming NBA legends such as Michael Jordan, John Stockton, and Larry Bird, who famously scored 60 points on this very court. The arena has also played host to major championship moments, including the 1991 Women’s Final Four, won by Pat Summitt’s Tennessee Volunteers . The facility also hosted the Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament in 2002 and again from 2012 through 2019, along with UFC events, professional wrestling cards, and countless concerts from some of the biggest touring acts in the world. The venue was also the setting for the fictional Spinal Tap reunion concert in the 2025 Rob Reiner movie, This is Spinal Tap II. Beyond sports and entertainment, UNO Lakefront Arena has also been a gathering place for historic public events. The Dalai Lama has spoken here, and more than 100,000 people filled the grounds outside during a mass led by Pope John Paul II. Over the years, it has also welcomed numerous presidential candidates and political figures. To truly grasp the arena’s legacy, take a walk around the concourse and look up at the ceiling tiles, to see a unique timeline showcasing just how many iconic events have passed through this building. And of course, an extra point goes to the arena’s remarkable recovery after Hurricane Katrina devastated the facility in 2005, forcing it to remain closed for more than three years. More than $25 million was invested in renovations and repairs, ensuring UNO Lakefront Arena would return stronger than ever, and continue hosting UNO basketball and many other major events for decades to come.

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Kansas City Chiefs are officially departing from their long-time home at Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri to build a new, state-of-the-art $3 billion fixed-domed stadium in Wyandotte County, Kansas. This major decision was announced on December 22, 2025, after Kansas lawmakers approved a significant tax incentive package to facilitate the move. The new venue is expected to be ready by the 2031 NFL season. New details have emerged that start to lay a clearer picture of what is to come. Reasons Behind the Move The Chiefs' decision to relocate is largely driven by financial incentives. Kansas is prepared to contribute a substantial portion of funding through STAR bonds, which are intended to support economic development without burdening taxpayers directly. This funding model will cover approximately 70 percent of the stadium's construction costs. Missouri had attempted to keep the team by proposing funding options, but these efforts fell short after Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax extension meant to finance improvements at Arrowhead Stadium . This rejection played a crucial role in the Chiefs' decision to pursue opportunities in Kansas. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly expressed her excitement about the move, emphasizing that it signifies Kansas's readiness to play significant roles in national events, such as the Super Bowl and various major sporting competitions. New Developments and Community Impact The Chiefs plan to develop a mixed-use district alongside the stadium, which aims to generate an estimated $4 billion in overall economic impact and create more than 20,000 jobs in Kansas. This new facility is not just about the team; it’s envisioned as a community hub that will provide entertainment, retail, and other amenities. The Chiefs' new stadium will feature at least 65,000 seats, slightly fewer than Arrowhead Stadium , but equipped for modern amenities that enhance fan experiences, including luxury seating and multi-use facilities. A new training center is also planned to be situated in Olathe, Kansas, further solidifying the franchise's commitment to the region. The Olathe City Council will vote on a key piece   of the Kansas City Chiefs' plan to build a $300 million practice facility and corporate headquarters in the city at its meeting — but not before residents get a chance to weigh in. The training facility and headquarters will be located at College and Ridgeview, just off Kansas Highway 10 in western Olathe.  This site has been heavily speculated about for months. The project site sits just south of the Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex. The Olathe portion of the relocation, in total, is estimated to cost almost $1 billion.  Response to the Announcement While the move is seen as a victory for Kansas, it has left many in Missouri disappointed. Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas acknowledged the deep ties that Arrowhead Stadium has with the community. The stadium has been a central aspect of NFL culture in the region, known for its intense fan atmosphere and tailgating traditions. Missouri officials, including Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota, expressed their regrets about the loss, noting that they believed they had put together a compelling offer to keep the Chiefs in Missouri. Despite this disappointment, there is an acknowledgment that the financial realities of the situation guided the Chiefs towards Kansas. Looking Ahead As the design and construction processes begin, the Chiefs are expected to hire an architectural firm to oversee the stadium's creation. This planning phase could take up to 18 months, with construction anticipated to last roughly three years. The franchise's commitment to a future-focused facility mirrors the vision of its late founder, Lamar Hunt, who was known for pioneering new ideas in the NFL. Kansas's ambition to position itself as a legitimate competitor to other states in attracting sports franchises marks a notable shift in the area. This move redefines the landscape of professional football in the region and promises benefits that extend far beyond the sport. The Chiefs' transition to Kansas highlights a significant chapter in the franchise's history, bringing monumental changes that will influence its legacy and the local economy for years to come. The Chiefs organization acknowledges the enthusia sm surrounding the project and recognizes the collaborative spirit needed to ensure its success. Both the franchise and local governments seem determined to navigate the complexities ahead, striving for a constructive partnership that benefits the team and the community alike.

On February 5, 2026, the Tampa Bay Rays unveiled initial renderings of their proposed new ballpark at Hillsborough College’s Dale Mabry campus. This milestone comes soon after the Hillsborough County Commission voted unanimously, highlighting strong local support for the project. The proposed stadium will feature a 31,000-seat domed structure and span approximately 130 acres, along with a mixed-use district. The vision aims to not just house the Rays but also create a vibrant community space encompassing residential, commercial, and recreational facilities. Managing Partner Patrick Zalupski expressed gratitude for the community's support and commitment to keeping Major League Baseball in Tampa. He emphasized that the site will set the stage for future successes, benefiting fans and the surrounding neighborhoods alike. An independent economic analysis estimates the entire mixed-use development could generate an impressive $34 billion in total economic impact, creating 11,900 permanent jobs. Furthermore, the site is anticipated to attract around 10 million visitors per year, positioning it as a key attraction in the region. In the upcoming weeks, the Rays and Hillsborough College plan to hold community engagement sessions. These sessions will allow residents, fans, and local stakeholders to review the renderings, provide feedback, and partake in the design process, ensuring that the final product reflects community desires. The Rays intend to secure at least 50% of the ballpark's construction costs themselves, with the overall proposed budget estimated at approximately $2.3 billion. Funding discussions will include various revenue streams, such as a Tourist Development Tax and special charges associated with the stadium's use. The partnership with Hillsborough College will enhance campus facilities and expand workforce development opportunities for over 45,000 students enrolled at the college. This collaboration aims to boost both educational and economic growth in the region. For fans eager to be part of this venture, a $19.98 deposit allows for early access to seating in the new ballpark through the Rays' official website. The project represents a bold step towards revitalizing Tampa Bay, merging sports and community development in a way that promises long-lasting benefits.

Photo by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey While the Super Bowl halftime show is a highlight for many, not everyone finds themselves captivated by the NFL's choice of artists or style. This has led to the notion of alternative halftime shows. Over the years, there have been several instances of alternate performances, reflecting a range of genres and interpretations. Let's explore some of these unique alternatives, including the exciting scenario brewing for Super Bowl 60 with Bad Bunny and Kid Rock. Historical Alternatives to NFL Halftime Shows One of the most notable instances of an alternative halftime show occurred during Super Bowl XXIX in 1995. The game featured a memorable performance from "The 50th Super Bowl: A Celebration of Champions", a local production put together by San Diego. This unofficial event featured a mix of community performances and local band showcases, garnering attention for its grassroots feel. Another example can be seen with Super Bowl XL in 2006. While the official halftime show featured The Rolling Stones, many fans felt detached from the classic rock vibe. Some opted for online streaming of local DJs or independent artists on platforms like MySpace, showcasing a burgeoning movement of DIY entertainment during major events. Independent Halftime Shows The unofficial alternatives often include indie artists, local musicians, or even viral sensations. For instance, during Super Bowl LIII in 2019, many chose to watch performances by internet-famous musicians broadcasting from their homes rather than tuning into Maroon 5. The proliferation of these independent choices illustrates the unique, democratic spirit of music in the digital age. Alternative Programming Most famously, it was when FOX aired a special episode of the sketch show In Living Color during Super Bowl XXVI in 1992. The counter-programming drew 29 million viewers and caused a 10-point drop in the game's second-half ratings on CBS. Many fans switched channels and did not return to the game. The following year, the NFL revamped its halftime show, featuring major entertainers, with Michael Jackson headlining the show. The USA Network aired "Halftime Heat", a special WWE match featuring The Rock and Mankind during Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999. The network aired another special the following year featuring Royal Rumble highlights. The program returned twenty years later as a six-man tag team match on the WWE Network during the Super Bowl LIII halftime in 2019. NBC aired a special "Playboy Playmates" episode of Fear Factor during Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002 to counteract the U2 performance. The following year, NBC countered the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show on AB with a live broadcast of Weekend Update. The Saturday Night Live sketch was hosted by Jimmy Fallon and Tina Fey. This was followed by a 90-minute segment of Fear Factor. And who isn't aware of the annual Puppy Bowl contests that air on Animal Planet? Live News Coverage During previous Super Bowl broadcasts, news outlets have taken the opportunity to air live coverage or panels discussing major events occurring around the nation and the world. For example, during the Super Bowl in 2020, CNN aired a special segment reflecting on key political moments.  During Super Bowl XXV in 1991, the halftime show featuring New Kids on the Block was notably overshadowed by significant news events, specifically the ongoing Gulf War and Operation Desert Storm. Due to the heightened focus on the military conflict, CBS opted not to air the halftime performance live, choosing instead to provide viewers with critical updates and coverage of the war's impact. This decision highlighted the urgency of the situation and underscored the extraordinary circumstances surrounding that year's Super Bowl, making it a unique moment in sports history where the news took precedence over entertainment. This kind of programming engages viewers who prefer informed discussions and updates on pressing issues over the entertainment portion of the Super Bowl. Anticipation for Super Bowl 60: Bad Bunny vs. Kid Rock Looking ahead to Super Bowl 60, fans are abuzz with excitement over the alternative halftime showdown featuring Bad Bunny and Kid Rock. Each artist brings a distinctively different style to the table, reflecting the broader cultural divide in fan bases. Bad Bunny, representing the Latin trap scene, has gained massive popularity, not only in the United States but globally, pushing the boundaries of mainstream music. His vibrant performance style and cultural relevance could draw in a diverse audience. Conversely, Kid Rock appeals to fans of Southern rock and country, known for his energetic performances and raucous anthems. The contrast between Bad Bunny's modern vibes and Rock's traditional sound presents an interesting clash, and fans are already speculating about who will dominate the alternative show. This proposed battle could function almost like a musical duel, with each artist aiming to outdo the other by drawing on their unique strengths. Bad Bunny's potential incorporation of dancers and visuals against Kid Rock's high-energy rock and country flair will offer two vastly different experiences for viewers, accentuating just how diverse the concept of the halftime show has become. The idea of alternative Super Bowl halftime shows has evolved significantly over the years, demonstrating the ever-changing landscape of music and fan engagement. Whether through historical grassroots efforts or modern digital alternatives, fans have found creative ways to express their preferences beyond what the NFL presents.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Tripp Athletic Center Ring Road Dartmouth, MA 02747 UMass Dartmouth Corsairs basketball website Tripp Athletic Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,500 Worth the Tripp   The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (better known as UMass Dartmouth) is one of five campuses in the University of Massachusetts system. It is located in the town of Dartmouth on the south coast of Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The university has an enrollment of about 8,000 students, about half of whom live on campus. The school offers 123 undergraduate programs and 32 graduate programs.   The Tripp Athletic Center, named in honor of former coach, athletic director, moderator of athletics and Textile Science professor Frances Tripp, features a fitness center, aquatics center and indoor track in addition to several basketball courts. It was built in 1972 at a cost of $2.7 million.   UMass Dartmouth has sponsored varsity basketball programs at the school since its founding in 1966. They currently compete at the Division Three level in the Little East Conference, which is made up of nine schools located throughout New England. The Corsairs have qualified for 14 NCAA Tournaments, reaching the Sweet Sixteen three times (1993, 1994 and 2001) and the Final Four once (1993). The women’s basketball team has qualified for three NCAA tournaments, reaching the Elite Eight in 2017. Corsairs Celebrate a Tournament Victory. Photo courtesy of UMass Dartmouth Athletics.   Food & Beverage 1   There is a concession stand in the main lobby of the Tripp Athletic Center. Unfortunately, this stand has rarely been open since the pandemic. When operational, visiting fans can get a variety of snacks and drinks here. Pepsi products are featured here at UMass Dartmouth. No alcoholic beverages are sold here at this on-campus facility.   If you visit UMass Dartmouth for a game when the concession stand is closed, there are some vending machines in the lobby. Fans are also able to bring in their own drinks and snacks. This being New England, it’s not uncommon to see Dunkin’ Donuts coffees here on a cold Massachusetts winter night.   Atmosphere 3   The staff at UMass Dartmouth put on a much more involved show than many of their counterparts at the D-3 level. There is a lot going on here, especially when you compare a Corsair game to many of their local counterparts. When the Corsairs are competing for a conference title, which is often, fans pack the Tripp Center, and the gym is full of noise and activity. Even on a slow night, there’s quite a bit going on here.   The centerpiece of the gameday atmosphere at the Tripp Center is the new video board, which is put to use with graphics and ties in with the promos the PA announcer reads throughout the game. Speaking of the PA announcer here, he’s quite busy, and really leans into his job, filling the gym with energy and leading the promos that go on throughout the game. T-shirts are tossed into the crowd, and it’s not unusual to see youth groups taking the court at halftime, cheerleaders doing their thing, a pep band playing during stoppages, and some of the other Corsair teams lending their support to the hoop squads on a given night. The school’s mascot, Arnie the Pirate (get it? Arrrrnie?) roams the gym interacting with fans and joining in the promos.   Even when all this activity is going on, the Tripp Center is an intimate enough setting that you can hear sneakers squeaking on the court and coaches barking instructions to their players. It’s the best of both worlds.   Game Action at Tripp Athletic Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3     While the UMass Dartmouth campus is fairly secluded with a great deal of green, open space and wooded areas, it is close to a very busy commercial area. Visitors will find many places to eat, shop and stay on Route 6, a short drive from campus. A complete visitor’s guide to the area around campus can be found here.   Fans coming to the area may not wish to spend a whole lot of time in either Fall River or New Bedford, two cities struggling with many of the issues facing many poor cities in the northeast. Still, there are places of interest in both cities. Fall River is home to Battleship Cove, the largest collection of World War II naval vessels in the world. Also nearby is the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast/Museum , located in the same house where the infamous murders took place in 1892. The museum is open for tours and fans of the macabre can actually spend the night at the house. The New Bedford Whaling Museum focuses on the history of the Whaling industry.   There are plenty of attractions in the area for visiting fans. Boston is located about an hour away to the north. Cape Cod is located a half hour to the east. Providence is a half hour away to the west, and Newport, with its Gilded Age mansions, is 45 minutes away.   Fans 2   UMass Dartmouth averages between 200-300 fans per game at Tripp Athletic Center. As is typical of other small schools in the northeast, the crowd here can be described as a “friends and family” crowd. Many of the fans in the stands have a personal connection with the athletes on the court. There are lots of proud parents and classmates mixed in with a few die-hard local hoops fans. UMass Dartmouth’s membership in the Little East Conference means the bulk of their schedule consists of other local schools. It’s not unusual to see visiting fans taking in the action as well.   Access 3     UMass Dartmouth is located in suburban Dartmouth, Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The school is easily accessed by Interstate 195. Route 6, the main commercial thoroughfare in this area, passes near the campus. Given the suburban location of the campus, driving is the primary method for getting to UMass Dartmouth. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA)  operates buses to both Fall River and New Bedford that arrive on campus roughly every half hour.   Tripp Athletic Center is located on the south side of campus, adjacent to several other athletic facilities, including Cressy Field. UMass Dartmouth has a rather unique setup in that most campus buildings are located within a single ringed road. Tripp Athletic Center is on the outer edge of this road, a bit of a distance from any parking lots. Signs direct fans to Lot 7, a decent distance away from the gym. If possible, your best bet is to park in lot 10, right across the street from the Tripp Center. It’s not the most convenient setup you’ll come across.   You would be hard pressed to find a more nondescript building than the Tripp Athletic Center. Marked with only a small sign and hidden away from the road, it is an easy building to miss. An entrance ramp leads fans into the gym lobby on the second floor. The Corsair Hall of Fame is located here, as well as the concession stand, restrooms and vending machines.   All seating is on one side of the basketball court, consisting of wooden bleachers. Fans enter at the top of the seating area and walk down to their seats. All seats offer great views of the action. Restrooms are more than adequate for a typical Corsair crowd. Opening Tap at Tripp Athletic Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Return on Investment 5   Tickets to Corsair basketball games cost five dollars for adults and three dollars for children aged 13-17. Children aged 12 and under are admitted at no charge. All tickets must be purchased through the Hometown Ticketing fan app. Parking is free in the lots across Ring Road. It adds up to an affordable night of entertainment for southeastern Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 3                                                                                                 The Corsair Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the lobby just outside the basketball court. The display features memorabilia from throughout UMass Dartmouth’s athletic history.   UMass Dartmouth displays its basketball success proudly on the walls of the Tripp Athletic Center. Tournament teams and conference champions in both basketball and volleyball, as well as members of the school’s 1,000-point club are honored here.   A final extra point is awarded for the design of the UMass Dartmouth campus itself. The university was “honored” in 2013 as one of the ugliest campuses in the United States. Travel and Leisure magazine likened its buildings to “concrete spaceships,” which is a fairly accurate description. Designed by internationally renowned Modernist architect Paul Rudolph. Campus buildings were built in the Brutalist style popular in the 1960s. The exterior and interior of the buildings are made from rough concrete (beton brut). The campus features large windows, meant to blur the distinction between inside and outside, and short, irregular stairs, meant to slow people down and allow them to appreciate the campus more fully. Newer campus buildings, have been built to complement, but not to copy, Rudolph’s aesthetic and soften the unusual vibe given off by his design.   Claire Carney Library, photo courtesy of Wikipedia. Final Thoughts   UMass Dartmouth offers an entertaining night of basketball at an affordable price. Fans who like their hoops with a side of architecture may wish to visit UMass Dartmouth for another reason entirely. A tour of the Paul Rudolph-designed campus can be just as interesting as the action on the court.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

The XXV Winter Olympic Games will be held February 6-22 ,2026 in the cities of Milan and Cortina, Italy. Nearly 3,000 athletes will take part in more than 116 events.  The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the most geographically spread out in the history of the Games. Milan will host most of the large arena events, while Cortina is in the Italian Alps and will host most of the mountain-based events. The two cities are more than 250 miles apart. A majority of the venues being used during these Games were already in existence, as the Milan and Cortina organizing committee along with the International Olympic Committee are making a concerted effort to reduce the construction expenses incurred in hosting the Olympic Games, and to reduce the carbon footprint of the games. We present a brief look at the venues hosting the various events of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The Games will be televised by NBC and its affiliated networks. Milano San Siro Olympic Stadium   The opening ceremonies of the XXV Olympics will take place in the 77,000 San Siro Olympic STADIUM. The Stadium has been in use for over 100 years and is known as the “Temple of Football”, as it hosts soccer matches for both AC Milan and Inter Milan . Milano Ice Skating Arena   This is another existing facility that has undergone recent upgrades. It will host both figure skating events and speed skating events. The arena has a capacity of 11,000. Milano Santagiula Ice Hockey Arena  This is one of the few newly constructed venues for this Olympic Games. It is being funded by a private entity as a future multipurpose facility for the city of Milan. The venue has a capacity of 14,000 for ice hockey games during the Olympics. Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium  This venue was previously used during the 1956 Olympic Games, when it was used to host both the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the figure skating competition. During the 2026 Games it will host the curling events. The venue has a capacity of 12,000. Cortina Sliding Centre   This is another new facility. It will host bobsled, skeleton and luge events. The facility was built on the bones of a similar bobsled track from the 1920’s. Olimpca delle Tofene   This downhill ski course was previously used for the 1956 Olympic Games. It has also hosted several World Cup skiing competitions over the years.    Stel vio     This downhill ski course is in the Italian Alps in Northern Italy. The facility opened in 1985 and hosted multiple World Championships and World Cup Finals. Predazzo Ski Jump Stadium    This venue opened in 1989. It will host both the ski jumping and Nordic Combined events. The stadium has previously hosted three World Ski Championships. Tessaro Cross Country Ski Stadium  This stadium serves as the cross-country ski event’s start and finish line. Verona Olympic Arena Our final Olympic venue has seen a lot of action in its time. It was built in 30 AD! It is a Roman amphitheater that has seen gladiators, jousts, visits from Napolean, operas and modern-day concerts. It will serve as the host to the closing ceremonies for the XXV Olympic Games. The historic structure has a capacity of 22,000. For more information on the XXV Winter Olympic Games, go to www.olympics.com  .

Picture by Eric Has, Stadium Journey The Northwest Indiana Oilmen of the summer collegiate Northern League have been evicted from their home ballpark in Whiting, Indiana. The team received a letter from the City of Whiting notifying them that they are no longer permitted to use Oil City Stadium . The decision was made on January 12 of this year. The Oilmen have called the ballpark in downtown Whiting home since being founded in 2011. The 1,100-seat stadium was built for $8.5 million on land donated by the Standard Oil Refinery. “I was surprised to find out that we weren’t playing at the stadium this year,” said team president Don Popravak. “I told the city that my crew of 30 staff members would take care of it except for the utilities.” Popravak offered to lease the stadium for $40,000-$60,000 a year, but the city rejected the offer. A couple of days before Christmas, Whiting Mayor Steve Spebar told him that the Oilmen were done at the stadium and that the city was considering proposals from other leagues. “We will have an expansion franchise in the Crestwood Collegiate League  that will play at the stadium,” said Spebar, who was concerned about the number of teams in the league. “We have been approached by other entities the past two years, but put it off in deference to the Oilmen .” According to the story in the NW Indiana Times , the Crestwood League has expanded to 20 teams all over the Chicagoland area after absorbing five teams from a league in Bolingbrook, Illinois. The clubs range from the northern suburbs to the Joliet area. The Whiting franchise will be the first in Northwest Indiana, AKA "The Region." Both the unnamed team and the White Sox Aces would play at Oil City Stadium Mondays through Wednesdays in June and July, with travel tournaments on weekends. Games are usually doubleheaders at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., or 7 p.m. if only one game is scheduled. The city and Calumet College of St. Joseph funded the installation of a new  FieldTurf  during the off-season. The project totaled over $1.4 million, which will be used by the college, high school, and other events. The mayor hopes the new turf will expand the stadium usage and attract travel tournaments throughout the year. He also sees it as an opportunity to attract visitors to support restaurants and businesses in downtown Whiting. The Northern League consisted of the Griffith Generals, Indiana Panthers, Southside Vikings, Minutemen, and the Elkhart County Miracle. The Oilmen have captured 5 league championships, have attracted 100,000 fans, and sent 40 players to organized baseball, according to the press release. They have also built a loyal fanbase at what both men have said is the "jewel of baseball stadiums in the area." The eviction of the Oilmen hinders their 2026 season, which is set to start in less than four months. There is no word on where the ball club will play, and Popravak said that he is “scrambling to find a place for his team for the summer”.  However, he remains optimistic about the future of his club, even pointing out that Jesse Cole was booted from the ballpark in Gastonia before founding the Savannah Bananas the next year. “We have a strong brand and will continue to impact the region. We will remain committed to building a thriving, economically vibrant community. The excursion from Oil City Stadium  will not deter us; it will only strengthen our resolve.” ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

What Drives Us? Patriots and Seahawks Fans Are You Ready to Ride That Roller Coaster On Super Bowl Sunday? Levi Stadium, Home of the San Francisco 49ers and host of Super Bowl LX Super Bowl XL will pit the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. In their previous meeting against each other during Super Bowl XLIX in 2015, the Seahawks were on the verge of back to back Super Bowl triumphs when on 2nd down and 1 yard from glory, with 20 seconds remaining, Malcolm Butler made the pick that enabled the Pats to win their 4th Super Bowl, casting a pall among sports fans throughout the Pacific Northwest. For Patriots fans throughout New England, it had to be absolute euphoria. Richard Sherman reacts to the Seahawks devastating Super Bowl XLIX loss to the Patriots. Photo courtesy USA Today The Thrill of Victory. The Agony of Defeat. The roller coaster of emotions the hard-core sports fans experience, especially during high-leverage games, is real. From healthcaretoday.com ,  “Whether you’re a fair-weather, “ride or die' or bandwagon fan (or your loved one is), we can all agree that sports have become somewhat of a religion in American culture. For many, it’s more than “just a game.” Some of you may have quipped about your blood pressure rising during some of your team’s high-intensity moments. During a blood pressure check not long ago, after a second check, the nurse at Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles, noticing all my Dodger Blue, also quipped that it may be the excitement of the pennant race that could have raised my BP. I also spoke with several other staff members and doctors, and almost everyone confirmed that it is common for rabid sports fans to have elevated blood pressure. Perhaps it was no coincidence that the day I had my blood pressure checked, patients waiting to be checked in urgent care were, you guessed it, dressed in Dodger Blue!  It would not even be a stretch to say that sports fans at times can put their hearts through the ultimate test, according to the American Heart Association . However, putting your heart through the test isn’t such a bad thing. “Life in general is stressful. There’s good stress and bad stress, and if you avoided everything in life that could give you a heart attack, you'd have a very boring life,” said Dr. Robert Kloner, chief science officer of the Huntington Medical Research Institutes in Pasadena, California, September 2018. Home of the San Francisco 49ers and host of Super Bowl LX Almost 40% of Americans say that they follow sports somewhat or very closely, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center poll. And about 7% of them are superfans who follow sports extremely closely and talk about sports every day. You might know some of those superfans, or maybe you’re one yourself. So, whether it’s college sports, the NFL, the WNBA, or Major League Baseball, what drives sports fans to become so passionately attached to their teams? Is being a fan good for your mental health, even when your team is losing? Why are some people fair-weather fans, while others love to root for the underdog? What about aggression among sports fans? Why do some fans behave badly? Can playing in front of a big, supportive crowd of fans actually affect a team’s performance? In other words, is there really a home-field advantage? Is the psychology of sports fans  more complicated than it needs be? It’s my personal belief that the topic of being a die-hard sports fan is simple yet complex. There’s no one simple reason why we became fans of said teams. Though the results of a high-impact game will have minimal to no impact on most of our lives, it does not stop us from displaying total elation or extreme dejection. I won’t lie. I still ride an emotional high when replaying Freddie Freeman's grand slam from Game 1 of the 2024 World Series . And what blue-blooded Dodger fan will ever forget that memorable 9th inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series ? Also, there’s nothing wrong if you mourn with an entire country the loss of a tightly played World Series, as evidenced by the display of somberness by Blue Jays fans. Super Bowl LX. For New England, it’s a chance to capture an unprecedented 7th Super Bowl trophy. For Seattle, it’s a chance for some redemption from Super Bowl XLIX. For Seattle, it’s a chance to reach that much needed high after witnessing the Mariners fall 8 outs short of their first World Series appearance.  Where will you be watching the Super Bowl? Will it be at the local sports bar with fellow diehard friends? Will it be at a Super Bowl party with a bunch of casuals and folks just wanting a reason to party. Honestly, if your team is playing this Sunday and you're a true diehard I would highly recommend avoiding the latter . The Super Bowl will bring out the best and worst emotions from everyone involved, be it the players, coaching staff, front office or fans from Puyallup, Washington to Burlington, Vermont. And if there’s ONE conclusion we can all agree it's the impact of sports bringing communities together . Communities that will come Sunday night into Monday are riding that sense of accomplished glory or the Monday morning withdrawals that will come with sports fan depression . Should Seattle fall short once again how will they cope with sports fan depression for the second time in 4 months?  Sports fan depression. In addition to being “rewarded” with 3 World Series triumphs this decade, as a 49ers fan that’s seen my team come up short in their last 3 Super Bowl appearances, I can tell you firsthand that sports fan depression is real. Emotions are so real regardless of the outcome I would request the following day off work. Wanting the day off after the Super Bowl has become a recurring theme for sports fans, particularly in places starved for a title-winning team such as Seattle. In 2022, school districts throughout Cincinnati cancelled classes the following Monday to give staff and students a day to recover.  From my experience, one day was sufficient enough for recovery. For some fans, 2 days max to heal the emotional psyche.  So, before you tune in to the big game, for possibly your sanity, you may want to check out more on why die hard sports fans, including yours truly and I’ll guess some of our fellow SJ writers and editors as well, invest so much emotionally in “our” teams, check out this read, The Psychology of Sports Fans, With Daniel Wann, PhD . You can also listen to the podcast as well. And remember Patriots and Seahawks fans, regardless of what happens Sunday, there’s 30 other fan bases that would like to be in your position. Embrace the moment. Use that well earned PTO come Monday ! And if your team comes up even 1 yard short, you can always take comfort that there’s always next year !

The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles will feature soccer matches at several prominent stadiums across the United States. This will not only facilitate a wider audience but also celebrate the sport in venues that are well-equipped for such significant events. The 2028 Olympic soccer matches will be held in six U.S. cities: New York, Nashville, Columbus, St. Louis, San Jose, and San Diego; these cities have been selected to host both group stage and knockout matches. The gold medal matches will take place at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Photo Courtesy of New York City FC Etihad Park, New York Capacity : 25,000 Details : Opening in 2027, just ahead of the Olympics, will be the new home of the New York City FC. Etihad Park will be the first fully electric stadium in Major League Soccer. Photo Courtesy of Scott Bultman, Stadium Journey Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California Capacity : 89,702 Details : The iconic Rose Bowl will host the men’s gold medal match on July 28, 2028, and the women’s final on July 29, 2028. It has a storied history and is a fitting venue for the Olympic finals. Photo Courtesy of Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, California Capacity : 35,000 Details : As the 2nd largest venue, opened in 2022, among the additional stadiums, Snapdragon Stadium will host several crucial group games, providing a vibrant atmosphere for fans in Southern California. Photo Courtesy of Meg Minard, Stadium Journey PayPal Park, San Jose, California Capacity : 18,000 Details : Home to the San Jose Earthquakes, this stadium has been chosen for its modern amenities and proximity to the tech hub, making it an exciting location for international teams. Photo Courtesy of David Wech, Stadium Journey Geodis Park, Nashville, Tennessee Capacity : 30,109 Details : The home of Nashville SC, this venue's vibrant music scene complements its capacity for thrilling soccer events. It promises to engage fans with both sports and local culture. Photo Courtesy of Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Energizer Park, St. Louis, Missouri Capacity : 22,423 Details : Newly built for St. Louis City SC, this stadium strives to support a burgeoning soccer community. It will serve as a critical host for initial matches and fan engagement activities. Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, Columbus, Ohio Capacity : 20,371 Details : Home to the Columbus Crew, this stadium adds diversity to the tournament’s host cities. Its design is tailored for soccer, ensuring that fans enjoy a top-notch experience. These selected stadiums will help bring the Olympic soccer tournaments to life from July 12 to 29, 2028. The final stage matches -- including the gold-medal matches on July 28-29, 2028 -- will take place at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif. The Olympic Match schedule, which will include specific dates and team matchups, will be announced before ticket sales begin in April 2026. The strategic distribution from coast to coast will not only minimize travel time for teams but also maximize fan engagement across different regions in the United States of America.

Arizona shares a long and deep history with the game of baseball. This history got its start well before Arizona became a state in 1912. A new museum, the Arizona Baseball Museum, will open on February 21, 2026 (just in time for Cactus League spring training!) in Mesa, Arizona to celebrate this long relationship between the state and the sport. The museum’s mission is to preserve and share the rich history of baseball from its territorial roots to the formation of the Cactus League. The Mesa Historical Society will manage the museum, which will be located next door to the Mesa Historical Museum. The new museum includes immersive exhibits, baseball memorabilia, fan stories, and interactive technology to bring this history to life. The museum’s first exhibit is Baseball in the Arizona Territory. The sport got its start when soldiers posted to the territorial forts brought baseball with them from the eastern portion of the country. It began as a regimental competition to keep the soldiers entertained as well as keep them in good physical condition. Soon, towns throughout the area began their own barnstorming teams, developing rivalries with neighboring towns. The next exhibit is called the Birth of the Cactus League. In the 1920’s and the 1930’s, baseball began to expand westward from its East Coast roots. Many of these new teams had owners who had seasonal homes in the Southwest to escape the harsh Midwestern winters. These owners included Bill Veeck of the Indians and Horace Stoneham of the Giants. During this period, the Tigers, Indians, Giants, and Cubs moved their preseason training camps to Arizona. This was the origin of the Cactus League. However, the beginning of World War II saw the new league come to a screeching halt, as no teams were allowed to play in the western United States due to security concerns. The next exhibit covers baseball in the area during the war years. After Pearl Harbor, Japanese Americans were forced to move into internment camps in the western United States. The Japanese Internment Baseball exhibit includes photos and stories from families who lived in these camps. Baseball had become very popular at this point in Japan, so Japanese Americans used baseball to build community, preserve dignity, and create some sense of normalcy. Following the conclusion of World War II, baseball continued its westward expansion to cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Owners were looking for ways to lower their costs for preseason baseball, and they saw the resurrection of the Cactus League as the best way to do that. Major League Baseball also saw several teams relocate from their original home cities. The 1960’s and 1970’s from the next section of the museum, Relocation and Expansion. During this period, the Kansas City Athletics moved to Oakland, and the Seattle Pilots (who later became the Milwaukee Brewers) and the San Diego Padres were added to the major league ranks. The 1990’s would see the creation of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Soon, the Cactus League reached its present-day membership of 15 teams that is still in place today. The Arizona Baseball Museum also features a section called the Fan Experience. This area includes reminiscences from fans of the early years of the Cactus League to the present.  Many of the locals who began as fans now work at the various Cactus League parks, ensuring that today’s fans have an equally satisfying preseason experience. This section also contains fan memorabilia from over the years, including t-shirts, ticket stubs, and photos of fans at various ballparks. The museum also serves as the home for the Cactus League Hall of Fame. This HOF includes the key individuals in preseason baseball’s western home. They include several of the pioneering owners who brought the game to Arizona… Bill Veeck, Horace Stoneham, Gene Autrey and Hi Corbett.  Players in the Cactus League Hall of Fame include Willie Mays, Ernie Banks, Frank Robinson, Vida Blue, Tony Gwynn, Reggie Jackson, Ron Santo, Dusty Baker, and Ichiro Suzuki. There are several players/broadcasters inducted into the Hall of Fame as well. They include Bob Uecker, Vin Scully, Pat Hughes, Bob Brenly, Rick Monday, and Ron Santo. The Arizona Baseball Museum ( www.arizonabaseballmuseum.org )  is located at 2345 North Horne Road in Mesa. Parking is available along the street in front of the museum. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am-4 pm.  Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors (age 60 and over) and military, and $4 for youth (ages 6-17).

Photos by Jude Hannahs, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Convocation Center 95 Richland Ave Athens, OH 45701 Ohio Bobcats website Convocation Center website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 13,080 “OU…OH YEAH!”  As someone who, at the time of writing this article, will eventually graduate from Ohio University in May 2026 and become a Bobcat for life, I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to watch OU athletics in the Convocation Center.  OU's athletic department is still listed as a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I. It has been a part of the division for nearly 80 years, dating back to 1946, when it also became a charter member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC).  OU as a college and its placement in Athens, Ohio, is what makes the existence of the Convocation Center so special. Based on my experience and the experiences of others, “the Convo” evokes the same feeling and environment as a National Basketball Association (NBA) team of some kind.  To put it simply, it’s an awesome place to watch players battle on the court, and come commencement season, it's a perfect space to join hand-in-hand with classmates and receive a degree each graduate has worked hard for and finally earned.  The Convo is a staple of not only OU, but the city of Athens in general. It’s an arena that truly captures what makes watching sports—whether it be men’s or women’s basketball, volleyball, and wrestling—such a spectacular setting to be in at the moment.   Food & Beverage 4 Whether the Bobcats are going in the right or wrong direction, fans and visitors will likely need some type of food and/or beverage to quench their hunger and/or thirst. Thankfully, concession stands provided at the Convo offer a nice variety of options to choose.  For any average game, the food and drinks are what anyone would expect. However, there are occasions where local restaurants in Athens will have their own stand and give out food and beverages to paying customers.  In my experience, I remember coming across a stand that was selling food from Mr. Hibachi Japanese Grill and Sushi, and the best part is that it was free! Moments like that can elevate any customer’s mood, and it’s something worth considering when thinking about going to the Convo.  Atmosphere 5 Easily the best aspect in terms of this review is the atmosphere at the Convo. The Convo exhibits the same feeling as going to an NBA game would.  Whenever a MAC rival is in town, say the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks, the atmosphere becomes ten times better than what it already was. That’s when the Convo is at the peak of its power.  Specific athletic events, fall and winter commencement, Bobcat Student Orientation (BSO), etc., all are held at the Convo, and all are likely to be core memories for Bobcats of old, of now, and of the future.  Adding to the atmosphere is a center-hung videoboard above center court. The four-sided display measures 11'x21' along the sides, 9'x14' on the end lines. Neighborhood 5 Driving north alongside the Hocking River toward Athens on Richland Avenue, one eventually will see the Convo emerge from the trees on the left-hand side. Whether or not the overall climate is pleasant, the sight of the Convo and how large it is will get the attention of just about anyone.  Whoever decided to place it and Peden Stadium as close as they are to each other, and in the location they reside in, was a genius. These are two of the biggest facilities on OU’s campus, and for them to essentially greet whoever is coming into town is incredible, to say the least.  Fans 3 This is where things get a little tricky. The best fanbases are the ones that will stick with a team no matter if they’re performing well or not. Sadly, in my experience watching basketball games, volleyball matches, and wrestling dual meets, whenever the Bobcats aren’t at their peak, the fans tend not be invested.  Of course, this isn’t exclusive to just OU, but it is something worth pointing out. However, when the athletes on the court wearing Bobcat uniforms are in the zone, then that’s the cue for the fans to get in it as well.  For men’s basketball games, the Ohio University Marching 110 (also known as “The Most Exciting Band In The Land”) performs, and they bring the energy to a whole other level.  Access 4 One of the best aspects about OU is that most of the facilities are within walking distance of where students live in dormitories and off-campus housing. So, students can easily walk from wherever they are living to the Convo and attend whatever game they’re attending.  The Convo does provide many areas for parking around the building itself, and additional space in Peden Stadium lot can be used as a backup.  There are times when an overflow of fans and visitors may occur, so finding parking elsewhere is definitely a challenge, as finding an open spot is essentially finding buried treasure in Athens.  Return on Investment 5 Another perk about OU’s athletic department is that enrolled students get free access to watching any sporting event at the Convo. For non-students, ticket prices vary depending on the sport.  For men’s basketball, online prices range from $10 to $20. For women’s basketball, that price lowers to between $5 and $15. Volleyball and wrestling are typically between $5 and $10. Walk-in ticket prices can range between $15 and $25 for men’s basketball, $10 and $20 for women’s basketball, and around $10 for both volleyball and wrestling. The cost of tickets in some cases may seem high, but those are often for seats closer to the court.  Extras 5 One thing many people may be unaware of in terms of the Convo is that it is also a place where students can live during an academic year. It contains built-in dormitories, which house mainly student-athletes, ROTC students, and engineering students.  During its early existence, it was nicknamed “the big thermostat” for its distinctive round, domed shape. It was originally going to be named the “Fred Beasley Center” after a local benefactor pledged $1 million. But that pledge fell through, and it was named simply the Convocation Center.  Before it was primarily used for athletics, the Convo hosted musical legends of the late 1960s and 1970s, including performances by Led Zeppelin in 1969 and a sold-out showing of Simon and Garfunkel.  For surrounding high schools, the Convo also serves as a host for the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) Regional Tournaments. It contains a sentimental value for younger athletes that goes beyond collegiate sports. Final Thoughts The Convocation Center is really something to behold. It may not be the absolute best of the best in terms of arenas, but it does hold a charm in Southeast Ohio, unlike most other facilities. I’m proud to have witnessed some fantastic games in it, and once my time comes to graduate, I’ll be glad to have walked on its floors one final time.