Photos by Dave Cottenie , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 First Horizon Park 19 Junior Gilliam Way Nashville, TN 37219 Nashville Sounds website First Horizon Park website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 8,500 Music in Hit City Nashville, Tennessee has a long history with baseball. The Music City has been home to several minor league and Negro League teams. The current Nashville Sounds were founded in 1978 as an expansion team in the Double-A Southern League. The popularity of baseball in Nashville was obvious from the start, as the expansion team led the entire Minor Leagues in attendance in its first year. By 1985, they advanced to the Triple-A American Association. The dissolution of this league in 1998 had the Sounds bump over to the Pacific Coast League and eventually the International League in 2021. The Sounds have won league titles in 1979, 1982, and 2005 and have been the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers since 2021. First Horizon Park is the home of the Sounds and is one of the newest ballparks at the Triple-A level, opening in 2015. It replaced Herschel Greer Stadium, which was home to the Sounds for 36 years. First Horizon Park is built on the location of historic Sulphur Dell, a minor league park that was used from 1885 to 1963. First Horizon Park is one of the premier Triple-A ballparks and definitely adds to the argument that Nashville should be considered for an expansion Major League Baseball team. Food & Beverage 4 First Horizon Park has a strong concession experience with a variety of locations and menu items. A number of the concession stands make use of giant iPads for ordering, similar to what is found in many McDonald’s locations. On the date of this review, the system seemed to work well, and concession lines moved quickly. Some of the concession highlights included Sulpher Dell Slices, Music City Grill. Smokehouse BBQ and Hot or Not Chicken. Along with all of the expected ballpark food items, local items fans may want to consider include the Nashville Hot Chicken and Pork Chop Sandwiches. Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice at the park. First Horizon Park also has a terrific selection of local craft beer as well as domestics and other alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 5 First Horizon Park is one of the best ballparks in all of Minor League Baseball. Not only does it offer an easy 360-degree path around the park on the inside, but there is also an easy path on the outside. The centerfield gate, right by the parking garage, offers a bronze statue of Track and Field Coach Ed Temple, who coached 23 Olympic medalists and 40 Olympians. Placards outlining the history of baseball in Nashville can be found along the path as well as the archeological history of the site of the former Sulphur Dell. The home plate gate is the main entry and is found at Junior Gilliam Way. The exterior is smart-looking with silver paneling surrounding a black and white sign. The entry is surrounded by light colored brick. Upon entry into the concourse, fans will find some different Nashville Sounds or Hit City markings. Immediately beside the main entry are profiles for the players of the four retired numbers, Jackie Robinson, Skeeter Barnes, Tim Dillard and Don Mattingly. Signage for other significant Nashville players like Junior Gilliam and Dusty Rhodes is found hanging throughout the concourse. The concourse is open concept, and it is possible to walk just about the entire 360 degrees of the park and not miss any of the action. A variety of seating options are available. The main seating area is two-tiered with plenty of 100 level seats under the overhang of the 200 level, providing lots of shade. There are patio tables beyond right field, berm seating perfect for catching home runs, and Adirondack chairs around the edge of the berms. The Band Box is beyond centerfield and is good for events. First Horizon Park also has plenty of spots to see the game from outside of the stadium, including the Third and Home terrace and the neighboring apartments. Of course, the most iconic item in the ballpark is the massive, guitar-shaped videoboard. First Horizon Park has its own cistern system, wiffleball park, and even a mini-golf course. The gameday production at a Sounds game is solid. The mascot, Booster the Rooster, a Nashville Hot Chicken, takes part in promotions on the field along with the in-game host. Also, the mascot race is uniquely Nashville with The Man in Black, Dolly, and Reba rushing to the finish line. Neighborhood 5 First Horizon Park is located in the North Capitol neighborhood of Nashville, part of downtown. There are several spots within walking distance for fans to go to get pre- or post-game food or drink. Some options include Geist Bar & Restaurant, TailGate, Von Elrod’s Beer Hall, Jonathan’s Grille, and numerous options in the Nashville Farmers Market. Germantown is just to the north and also has several options. Heading to Broadway will provide a whole host of other options. There are a few other sporting options in Nashville. These include Nashville SC, Nashville Predators, and Tennessee Titans. Nashville also has many college options. These include Belmont Bruins, Lipscomb Bisons, and Tennessee State Golden Tigers, and Vanderbilt Commodores football, basketball, and baseball. Nashville is one of the best tourist destinations in the country. Known as Music City, Nashville has a ton of country music-centric tourist options. These include the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and The Grand Ole Opry, to name a few. There is always live music in one of the establishments on Broadway. The Gaylord Opryland is also something that should be seen. There are also many tourist options within walking distance of the park, including the Tennessee State Capitol, Tennessee State Museum, Nashville Farmers Market and Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. There are a ton of hotels within walking distance of the park also. TownPlace, The Capitol Hotel, and DoubleTree are a few options. Fans 5 The Nashville Sounds have a solid fan base. For the 2026 season, at the time of writing, the Sounds averaged over 6,500 fans per game. They ranked 3rd in the International League in attendance. In the previous season, the Sounds averaged over 6,700 fans per game and ranked 4th. The fans in the stands are knowledgeable and loud at all the right times. Access 4 First Horizon Park is located in the North Capitol neighborhood of Nashville. It is on the south side of Junior Gilliam Way between John Lewis and 3rd Ave. It is just over 1 km east of I-65/I-40 and 2 blocks west of the Cumberland River. Getting to the park is not too difficult, being so close to the interstate. There are a few local parking garages and lots. Preplanning parking is a great plan. For those wishing to take public transit to the ballpark, there are bus stops along 2nd Ave, east of First Horizon Park. Fans should consult the WeGo Transit website for fares, schedules, and maps. Getting around the ballpark is very easy as the concourses are wide and there is a full, 360-degree path. The washroom facilities in the ballpark are good. Stadium Journey recognizes that the security protocols for major sporting events are in constant flux. Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Nashville Sounds and First Horizon Park websites for the latest security procedures, including bag policy and prohibited items. Return on Investment 5 Nashville Sounds tickets start at $11.75 for General Admission, berm seating. Seats start at $17.65 and go up to $41 for club seats. Day-of-game purchases will cost an extra couple of bucks. Concession prices are not too bad at First Horizon Park, and parking will cost a few dollars. The product on the field in Nashville is solid, and the overall experience is great. Fans will leave the park having been fully entertained and not out a mortgage payment or more! Extras 3 An extra mark for Junior Gilliam Way, the street behind home plate. Junior Gilliam was a local product who had a 27-year major league career that started in the Negro Leagues. He was the 1953 Rookie of the Year for the Brooklyn Dodgers. An extra mark for the Sounds embracing the full history of Nashville baseball and putting it on display. An extra mark for a very well-stocked team store. Final Thoughts Time will tell if Major League Baseball decides to descend on Nashville as an expansion destination. Until that time, the Nashville Sounds are more than filling the baseball void in Music City, in one of the best parks in Minor League Baseball. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Bridgewater Ice Arena 20 Bedford Park Bridgewater, MA 02324 Stonehill Skyhawks women's hockey website Bridgewater Ice Arena website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 500 A Hawks Nest - For Now Stonehill began sponsoring women’s hockey in the 2022-23 season. The Skyhawks are members of the New England Women’s Hockey Alliance, a conference consisting of eight mostly former members of Division Two’s Northeast-10 Conference. The conference competes at the Division One level since the NCAA does not recognize D-2 hockey. The Skyhawks won the NEWHA conference tournament in 2024. When Stonehill began competing at the D-1 level, both their men and women’s teams played their home games at the off-campus Bridgewater Ice Arena. This public rink, located 12 miles from the Stonehill campus, features two NHL-sized rinks, a full-service café and seating for 500. The complex also plays host to numerous high school teams as well as the Bridgewater Bandits of the USPHL. In 2024 the men’s team began playing a portion of their schedule at Warrior Ice Arena in Boston, and now plays their entire schedule there. The women’s team will play an occasional big game at Warrior, such as their game against Boston College to open the 2026-27 season. Stonehill, which used the nickname “Chieftains” for decades, changed their mascot to the Skyhawks in 2005 to honor the type of planes used by the Navy at the airfield located on campus until 1955. On May 28, 2025 Stonehill College announced that due to a record $15 million donation from Tom (class of ’72) and Kathleen Bogan, planning has begun on a new hockey and basketball arena on campus. In recognition of their philanthropy, the arena will be known as the Tom and Kathleen Bogan Arena. There is currently no timeline for construction of the arena. Food & Beverage 2 There is a snack bar located at the back end of the lobby. The menu here isn’t as extensive as other snack bars you’ll find in community rinks, but there are enough choices here to keep all fans satisfied. A combination of breakfast and lunch foods are available here. Breakfast sandwiches, wraps and prepackaged salads can be purchased here. If you’re just looking for a snack, an assortment of muffins, candy, popcorn and pop tarts are available for purchase. Pepsi products are featured, with hot chocolate and coffee popular choices in this chilly rink. Many fans bring their own beverages in, with lots of Dunkin’ coffee observed in the stands. There are also vending machines in the lobby should the snack bar not be open during your visit. Atmosphere 1 The game day atmosphere at a Stonehill hockey game is a bare bones one to be sure. With the facility’s physical limitations, you wouldn’t really expect anything more. A simple scoreboard at the far end displays basic game information, and the sound system is in serious need of some TLC. The PA announcer goes about his business in an understated manner, but can be difficult to understand given the sound system on hand. There are no promos or contests during the game to distract and there is little to no noise from the sparse crowd in attendance. There is little here to even show fans that a Division One hockey team plays here. The USPHL’s Bridgewater Bandits take precedence here, with a sign signifying that they are the main tenant here posted on Bedford Street. Banners along the side of the rink honor all the youth teams that call BIA home. The pro shop here sells Bandits and Northeast Generals gear, but no Stonehill swag. The only mention that the Skyhawks even play here are a pair of banners hung on a far corner of the rink. At least the Skyhawks have their logo painted at center ice. Faceoff at Bridgewater Ice Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 2 Given Bridgewater Ice Arena’s location in an industrial park, you wouldn’t expect any attractions or lodging options in the immediate vicinity of the rink. However, there are places to be found a short drive away. Downtown Bridgewater is about two and a half miles away to the north, with Route 44, a local route which connects Providence with Plymouth, passing by three and a half miles to the south. Numerous dining and lodging options can be found in either direction. Barrett’s Alehouse and Fireside Grille are local favorites located close to Bridgewater Ice Arena. Visitors to Stonehill looking to explore more than just the immediate neighborhood may gravitate to Boston, a 45-minute ride north or Cape Cod, a 30-minute ride to the southeast. A half-hour drive can also bring you to the historic seaside towns of Plymouth or New Bedford. Visitors to the area will find plenty to do in any of these locations, even during the winter months of the hockey season. Fans 2 Stonehill’s reported attendance is approximately 150 fans per game about a month in to the 2026-27 season. We’ll take this figure as reliable, as Stadium Journey visited the BIA on an Friday evening with a crowd of about 100 fans in attendance. This makes the crowds at Stonehill pretty comparable in size to other women’s programs in the area. This is what we at Stadium Journey like to call a “friends and family” crowd. Most of the fans in attendance appear to have a connection with the players on the ice. With the BIA located a dozen miles from campus, there is little to no representation from the student body at games. Game Action at Bridgewater Ice Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 4 Bridgewater Ice Arena is located 12 miles from the Stonehill campus in suburban Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Situated in a small industrial park just off Route 18, it is very easy to get to from any direction. Interstate 495 passes just a few miles to the south of the rink. Directions to the rink can be found here. There is plenty of free parking in the lot adjacent to the facility. The Skyhawks play in the east rink, one of two rinks in the facility, which will be on your right as you enter the lobby. Seating consists of metal bleachers that run along the length of once side of the rink. There is some standing room at the near end of the ice. Nets are hung at both offensive zones, but the center sections are free from obstruction. Rest rooms are located just off the lobby and are more than large enough for a typical Stonehill hockey crowd. Be warned that the rink is very chilly, so dress appropriately. You’ll see lots of hot beverages, blankets and winter coats at the BIA. Fans will often head for the lobby (or even outside) during intermission to warm up. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge to watch a Skyhawks hockey game. Parking is also free in the arena parking lot. It’s entirely possible to go to a Division One hockey game without spending a cent. Even if you decide to get a snack while at the game, you certainly won’t be breaking the bank. Banners at Bridgewater Ice Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 There isn’t a whole lot going on at a Skyhawks hockey game that can be considered extra. At the far end of the rink are some banners honoring the Skyhawks’ conference titles since their inception in 2022. Final Thoughts Bridgewater Ice Arena turned out to be too small for the growing men’s hockey program, but for now, it’s the right size for the fledgling women’s Skyhawks. A bigger nest is planned for them to move into soon, but for now, the BIA suits these hawks just fine. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Emmy Smith, and Jennifer Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 M&T Bank Stadium 1101 Russell St Baltimore, MD 21230 Baltimore Ravens website M&T Bank Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 70,745 Home of the Ravens The Baltimore Ravens gave the fans of “Charm City” a new beginning in 1996 when they started operations after the Cleveland Browns moved to the Maryland city. As part of a settlement between the league and the city of Cleveland, Art Modell was required to leave the Browns’ history and records in Cleveland for a replacement team. Since their “new beginning,” the Ravens have won two Super Bowl titles. The city of Baltimore has a history of winning teams. The Baltimore Colts won the NFL Championship game before the Super Bowl even existed, in 1958 and 1959, as well as the Super Bowl in 1971. The Baltimore Stars of the USFL were led by coach Jim Mora to that league’s championship in 1985, the final year of the league and team. And of course, the well-loved Canadian Football franchise, the Baltimore CFL Colts/Stallions, won in 1995, before the Ravens came to town and prompted their move to Montreal, where they became the Alouettes. Those seven championships show that Baltimore is a hard-nosed football town with a history of success. After playing their first two years at the venerable old Memorial Stadium, the team has made what is now known as M&T Bank Stadium home. The 70,745-seat stadium has undergone numerous renovations over the years. The team continually updates the stadium in many ways each year, and it always feels fresh and new. The Ravens announced a multi-year project (2024-2026) to enhance the Stadium with significant projects. The Ravens are using a projected $430 million of the $600 million of state funds allotted for stadium improvements. The funds came with the renewal of the Ravens' lease, which will keep them in M&T Bank Stadium through at least the 2037 season. Most of the projects are now done, leaving the stadium feeling fresh as new. Food & Beverage 5 The Ravens have good-quality concession stands around the stadium. Many stands offer options such as beer, chili bowls, pizza, and hot dogs. Stands have generic names, such as Goal Line Grill, Kickoff Classics, and the Chesapeake Market. There are also outposts of local favorites, as well as Shake Shack. There are also a few full-service bars scattered around offering top-shelf spirits and premium drinks. Several kiosks also sell a variety of domestic and craft beers. The stadium has followed Atlanta's lead and begun offering many lower-priced, value options. This has made an already good food experience even better. Atmosphere 5 From the Ravenswalk area outside the stadium to the purple seats and concourse lighting, the Ravens have set a fine stage for enjoying NFL football. Expect the games to be loud inside the stadium. Every play, whether on defense or offense, will have fans screaming at every detail. Even memorable team plays are carefully reviewed. The fans are knowledgeable about all aspects of the game. Ravenswalk leads the fans from downtown and Oriole Park towards M&T Bank Stadium. It has always been a good place for fans to enjoy pre-game activities. The team has increased the entertainment and food offerings in this area, making it an even more enjoyable place to spend some time. Make sure to be in this area when the Baltimore Ravens Marching Band makes its way towards the game. One favorite here is the cocktail bar, which offers decent-priced drinks and a pretty impressive Bloody Mary bar. One should also stop by to see the text of the former facade from Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium, which is on display between the two stadiums. The text was a memorial to those killed in the two World Wars. The main words of “TIME WILL NOT DIM THE GLORY OF THEIR DEEDS” remind visitors of those this nation lost in the past. The line is a quote from Gen. John J. Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. The large video boards, known as RavensVision, past both end zones, are amazing visual spectacles. The vertical screens in each corner enhance the game viewing options. The Ravens cheerleading squad and mascot Poe offer traditional cheering options. Note that the cheerleading squad has a male stunt squad, as well. The Poe mascot has now seen his brothers, Edgar and Allen, re-added to the mascot mix. In 2022, the brothers stood in for Poe when he went down with a devastating wing injury. The fans are happy to see all three at the game in 2023. The "MO" in Baltimore is colored differently in the end zones from the rest of the city name. This is to honor the late Mo Gaba, who passed in 2020 at the age of 14. Mo was a Baltimore super-fan who, despite battling cancer for most of his life and later losing his sight, became a favorite of all Baltimore athletes. Gaba was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in July 2020 and, in 2019, became the first person to announce an NFL draft pick written in Braille. The Ravens continue to honor Mo 3 years after his passing. The stadium signage is consistent, modern, and appropriate. Purple lighting effects are seen everywhere. The team is constantly adding new ways to enhance the purple-ness of the stadium. Signage, flashing LED lights, and screens make you see purple everywhere, just as they want. One major complaint of M&T Bank Stadium had been the lack of escalators to the upper deck. But a few years back, they added escalators to this area, so fans no longer have to hoof it up and down stairs or long ramps. Neighborhood 4 The neighborhood is generally the same as Oriole Park at Camden Yards, but it does suffer a bit because it is farther from downtown Baltimore. The newly opened Horseshoe Casino, located south of the stadium, has the potential to make this “other” side of the stadium more and more critical to the Ravens’ social scene. Close to the stadium, and right across from Oriole Park, are Pickles Pub and Sliders Bar & Grille. The Federal Hill neighborhood is also close by. The Inner Harbor is a popular tourist destination and is a short walk from M&T Bank Stadium. There is a movement by a local developer to redevelop the already famous Harborplace into a state-of-the-art living and working area. Currently, the existing pavilions are closed. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions, such as Fells Point and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, though its unique collection may not be for everyone. Baltimore is, and has always been, an urban environment where you should stay aware of your surroundings. Use common sense, and everything will be fine, you will have a great time. Fans 5 Baltimore is a football town. They love smash-mouth football and have no problem if the defense wins the game by smothering their opponents. Even when there was no NFL team in the city, they embraced football variations offered by the USFL and the CFL in ways other cities may struggle to match. Fans will still respect fans who wear the opposing team’s colors, but they should not expect too much love. The fans are serious about the Ravens and defensive football. Just like at Oriole Park, the Ravens’ fans commemorate the local creation of the Star-Spangled Banner, and the love of the other big league team in town, by shouting a loud “O!!!!!!” during the appropriate spot in the anthem. In other places, this would seem disrespectful, but in Baltimore, it shows the love for the country and the team. If you hear that yell at different parks throughout the country, rest assured that there is a Baltimore fan in the house. Fans also love to chant along to “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes. Access 5 M&T Bank Stadium is right off I-95, with only a couple of turns putting you on the highway home. Parking garages are located in all directions from the stadium. Street parking is not a great option. Parking near the Inner Harbor is a good option. Check the parking link on the Ravens’ website to find bargains that are a pretty close walk away. If you’re not driving to the game, the other primary mode of access is the MTA Light Rail. From points north and south of downtown Baltimore, you can take the train to the ballpark. The Light Rail is slow, so make sure you know that beforehand. The crowds will be overwhelming after the game. Return on Investment 4 An NFL game is expensive. There is no way around it. You do get a good deal because of the high entertainment value and the extremely high level of competition. Parking costs, if done correctly and cheaply, can help alleviate some expenses. The Ravens make sure the fans know they are valued for spending their money on the team. Free programs are available for all games, and the pregame ritual of walking the Ravenswalk (located between the two Camden Yards stadiums) is a treat for all fans. Extras 5 The Johnny Unitas statue is located at the end of Ravenswalk, in front of the stadium, it is a gathering spot for pregame meetings and a place to honor the Baltimore Colts legend. A Ray Lewis statue was later added to celebrate one of the other most important Baltimore football players. Ravenswalk is the place to be and watch the excitement of the game day grow to a fever pitch. One of the few marching bands in professional football, the Marching Ravens plays at Ravenswalk and at various points during the game. This is the same band that was known as the Baltimore Colts’ Marching Band and was started in 1947. The newly spent renovations and additions have made the purple colors and signage seem consistent and scream out RAVENS at every turn. Final Thoughts M&T Bank Stadium shows that the Ravens have done an outstanding job with their franchise. The fans who attend will always have a memorable game day experience and get good value.

Gary Noll, born Deaf in a New Jersey Deaf household, is a huge New Jersey/New York Sports fan who received the 2019 New Jersey State Governor’s Jefferson Award, the 2024 New Jersey State Governor’s Volunteerism Award (as a “Community Pillar”) and a 2024 Russ Berrie Unsung Hero Award. He proposes and raises awareness of Deaf and ASL (American Sign Language) sports events. Gary is an advocate of accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion, including promoting captioning and ASL communication technology during NJ/NY metropolitan sporting events. Gary has already discussed sports venues in New Jersey and New York with Stadium Journey and is excited to share the latest news about future Deaf or ASL awareness events. Please stay tuned for game announcements! The sports teams will be posting notices about the events online. Gary Noll at 2026 US Open 1. Madison Square Garden (MSG), New York City Unfortunately, there won’t be a New York Knicks American Sign Language (ASL) group event this season or in 2027. We hope we see it happen sometime in the future. This is because the team is limiting ticket availability, ticket costs have increased, and the NY Knicks have restructured their staff since winning the NBA championship in June 2026. We’re now focusing on hosting what could be their first-ever NY Rangers ASL group event in 2027 and beyond (keep your fingers crossed). Gary has already asked to include Deaf ASL anthem performers during some future NY Knicks and NY Rangers games. 2. Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York Yankee Stadium Closed Captioning, Photo by Gary Noll The NY Yankees baseball team is planning to host its fourth annual Deaf Awareness Event in 2026, but they’ve decided to hold it next year. Please keep an eye out for it. They’ve already reached out to schools and others, but they’re not ready to make a commitment at this time due to their new leadership. The New York Yankees still have plans for Deaf Awareness Events in the future. 3. Citi Field, Queens, New York Partnering with Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf, the New York Mets hosted a dedicated Deaf Awareness event in May 2026, held during their home game against the Cincinnati Reds. The Mets are considering hosting either a Deaf Awareness Day or a special Deaf group event by partnering with one of the best Deaf schools in NYC and Long Island for future seasons. This 2026 season, you’ll notice the Mets already have an ASL anthem performer for some or most of their games, which is a thoughtful way to promote inclusivity. 4. US Open Tennis, Queens, New York Closed Captioning at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Photo by Gary Noll The US Open Tennis at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (August 23 to September 13, 2026) will feature Deaf ASL anthem performers for the opening night and the men’s and women’s championship matches, which will be broadcast on TV again for the third consecutive year. 5. Met Life Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey We haven’t had a chance to chat with the NY Jets and NY Giants about an ASL group event yet. We’d love for them to consider having a Deaf ASL anthem performer during one of their games! If FIFA decides to award NJ/NY the 2031 FIFA World Cup women’s soccer matches, we’d be thrilled to have a Deaf ASL performance. You can read more about this idea in this article. 6. UBS Arena, Belmont Park, New York Deaf Awareness Night at NY Islanders, Photo by Gary Noll After having a successful Deaf Awareness Night in 2023, the NY Islanders have not yet duplicated that event. The team is still considering whether to host another Deaf Awareness Night or a first-time ASL night in future seasons. If this happens, we expect to have live ASL interpreters broadcasting on the Jumbotron. 7. Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey Prudential Center ASL on Videoboard, Photo by Gary Noll The New Jersey Devils hockey team is planning to host its 8th annual ASL night this 2026 - 2027 season on Oct 20, 2026. They’re hoping to feature a Deaf ASL anthem performer and a group performance. To help ASL fans, there will be ASL interpreters throughout the stadium, and they’ll use them to include trivia and other activities on the Jumbotron. Plus, they’ll continue to offer NJ Devils ASL T-shirts for those who buy tickets to the ASL event. 8. Sports Illustrated Arena, (formerly Red Bull Arena), Harrison, New Jersey There’s been talk about a Gotham FC, pro women’s soccer (NWSL) Deaf Awareness Event at the Sports Illustrated Arena, but it hasn’t happened yet. We haven’t discussed hosting a Red Bulls (MLS) pro men’s soccer ASL event there, but we should think about it in the future. 9. Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York We’ve already pitched the idea of hosting the first-ever WNBA New York Liberty and NBA Brooklyn Nets ASL nights at the Barclays Center to the BSE Global team (the ownership company). They’re still not ready for an ASL event yet, but we’re not giving up! We’ll keep trying every year. Oct, 2026 Update: Barclays Center now has four or more live captioning boards in the corners, which might give the Brooklyn Nets and NY Liberty a great chance to kick off ASL events. Closed Captioning at Barclay's Center, Photo by Gary Noll 10. Etihad Park, Queens, New York It would be great to have live captioning at the new Etihad Park, which will be the home of NYCFC’s men’s soccer team in Major League Soccer (MLS) and will welcome Gotham FC women’s soccer in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) starting in 2028. We’re also hoping to have a Deaf ASL anthem performer during the first soccer match! 11. Office of the Big East Conference, NCAA, New York City Gary Noll at Big East Championship, MSG They plan to feature ASL anthem performances at both the men’s and women’s basketball championship games at Madison Square Garden in New York City and Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut, marking the fourth consecutive season of this tradition. They’re also aiming to broadcast it on TV for the first time next March 2027.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Powers Field at Princeton Stadium 500 Ivy Lane Princeton, NJ 08540 Princeton Tigers football website Powers Field at Princeton Stadium website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 27,800 Ivy League Roars Powers Field at Princeton Stadium opened on September 19, 1998, with a win over Cornell. The new stadium replaced the old facility, Palmer Stadium, which had served the Princeton Tigers’ football team for 82 years. In all, the Ivy League Tigers have been playing football on this same site since 1914. Two very unique features of Princeton Stadium are, first, the 32-foot-high climbing wall built into the structural supports in the southeast corner of the venue. The climbing wall is 66 feet across and is used for rock climbing classes at Princeton, as well as for recreational climbing by students and faculty. The second unique feature is even more impressive, however – following the last home football game of each year, a climate-controlled inflatable dome is set up within the walls of the stadium, allowing the field to be used for sports during the brutal 5 or 6-month New Jersey winter. Teams such as lacrosse, soccer, rugby, and flag football use the turf inside the bubble, with nets separating different sections so multiple groups can use it at the same time. Food & Beverage 4 Princeton Stadium has a ton of different concession options at reasonable prices, ranging from hot dogs, pizza, brisket sandwiches, and walking tacos to burgers and grilled chicken sandwiches. These items start at around $5 for a hot dog and go up to $12 for the brisket. The stands here even offer a vegetarian burger option, black bean. For snacks, you can find items such as pretzels, popcorn, packaged candy, chips, and cotton candy running from $3 to $6, while drinks include Powerade, canned water, fountain soda, coffee, and hot cocoa, with all beverages under $4. Offering coffee and hot cocoa is a major plus during cold weather football games up here in the north. Note that different stands offer different items, but all options are sold on both sides of the facility. Atmosphere 4 Even though the crowd may not be very big, Princeton puts on a great show here at Powers Field. There are giveaways and a bouncy house out on the lawn between the parking garage and the field, which make the day a little more fun, especially if you have little ones. There are also a pair of shiny metal tiger statues outside the stadium, which are fun to take a picture of or a selfie with, and the tiger stripe decor all around the venue really pops. While the Princeton band is not very large (barely a dozen), there is a mascot on hand to entertain the crowd, and the staff plays a lot of fun music during breaks in the action to get fans up and moving. Neighborhood 3 Princeton is a small town of just over 30,000 residents who are packed into a small geographic footprint, so the area is highly walkable. The restaurant scene here is a mix of historic taverns and fast-casual eateries that cater to students; the latter offer fare such as burgers, Mexican, and pizza. There are also a few sports bar-type options in the area such as Alchemist & Barrister, although these tend to be more boutique eateries located inside historic buildings than your typical chain restaurants with neon signs on the walls. There are a couple of hotels in the immediate vicinity of Princeton Stadium, though these tend to be high-end and more costly. More modest lodging options can be found outside of town about 3 to 5 miles from the stadium, for example out along Route 1. The attractions here tend to be historic in nature, for example, touring the former home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Fans 3 There will not be a ton of fans here during a typical game – you’ll see a large crowd in the lower-level sections just beneath the press box, but mostly an empty stadium everywhere else, including on the visitor side. Still, the fans who show up do make some noise, cheer at the right times, and seem very engaged. The crowd does appear to be mostly alums of the school, without much of a student presence. Access 4 Traffic in the vicinity can be pretty brutal depending on where you are coming from, with New York City and Philadelphia both about equidistant from Princeton. However, the immediate area around Princeton Stadium is not very crowded, as it is a couple of miles off the main roads, and there will not be big crowds to contend with as you come and go. Once you get to the facility, the best place to park is in the Stadium Parking Garage, where it won’t take much time to exit after the game since there aren’t very many cars here. From there, it is a little bit of a walk to the football stadium, past some other athletic fields, but once you get inside Princeton Stadium, you should have smooth sailing. There are plenty of bathrooms, and each concession stand is set up like a grab-and-go, with two cashiers assigned to each so the lines move fast. The concourse is also virtually empty. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Princeton football games are $20, and I think that is a perfectly reasonable cost. The venue feels clean and modern despite being almost 30 years old, and the crowd is very polite. There is enough decor and activity during breaks in the action to keep fans entertained, and there are small scoreboards on each of the interior walls, so no matter where you are sitting, you should easily be able to read one. The mascot is fun to watch, and even though the band is tiny, they put on a good show before the game and at halftime. Extras 3 Princeton football does some interesting things to add a bit of flair to the experience, for example, bringing in a guy with an electric guitar to play the National Anthem. I thought that was a great take on what is usually a solemn moment in the game, both fun and unique. Final Thoughts I would definitely recommend a visit to Powers Field at Princeton Stadium to see a Tigers football game. It is a great experience with no crowds to fight, and pretty easy on the wallet as well. Make time to see these Ivy League Tigers when you can!

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Ron Roberts Field at the Banta Bowl 1201 E John St Appleton, WI 54915 Lawrence Vikings website The Banta Bowl website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 3,634 The Name Behind the Gift Originally known as the Lawrence Bowl when it opened in 1965, the Banta Bowl was made possible by an anonymous gift from George Banta Jr. ’10, an alumnus of Lawrence College. The name behind the donation was only revealed upon his death in 1978, at which point the name was changed in his honor. The field itself is named after Ron Roberts, who coached the Vikings for 30 years – Roberts brought the team to back-to-back league titles in the 1960s, and then added three more in a row from 1979-1981, winning six Midwest Conference championships in total. The Banta Bowl is nestled comfortably in one of the ravines that are common in the Appleton, Wisconsin area. The 3,634-seat facility has grandstands on both sides of the field, along with the Gilboy Athletic Center behind the north end zone. The athletic building houses the football locker room, concessions, restrooms, and the ticket office. Food & Beverage 4 The Banta Bowl has food trucks at the main entrance, including local favorite Cousins Subs as well as Mexican and Asian cuisine. There is also a regular concession stand attached to the Gilboy Athletic Center which sells burgers, hot dogs, chips, candy, and bottled soda and water. The quality of the food is high – the prices are higher at the food trucks, but so are the portion sizes and quality. At the main stand, hot dogs and burgers (both with actual grill marks) cost $4 and $5 respectively, while drinks and snacks are only $2 to $3. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is not over the top at the Banta Bowl, but you should have a great time. There is shade on the south end of the home side, especially as the afternoon wears on, thanks to trees at that end which slightly overhang the seats. The Vikings also have a great mascot, an antelope wearing a Viking helmet; the college’s crest features an antelope, but the Vikings name won a 1926 contest to rename the old 'Blues' nickname. As a result, Lawrence’s current athletic branding incorporates both traditions. Photo courtesy of Tabitha Lee In addition to operating a small team gear stand attached to the Gilboy Athletic Center, the staff also hands out stickers, pom poms, and buttons as fans enter, which is a nice touch. Neighborhood 3 The Banta Bowl sits on the banks of the Fox River in Appleton, WI. The surrounding trees provide a wonderful setting, and there are also walking and biking trails along the river that pass right by the stadium, so fans can take a pleasant stroll before or after the game. There are several great restaurants on the riverfront, but if you want to catch some other football action before or after the Vikings game, check out Mill City Public House, loaded with massive TVs and loud audio. Stone Arch Brewpub is another option with more of a live music and trivia vibe, but it does offer its own microbrews. There are several hotels in the area, the most well-known probably being Hilton Appleton Paper Valley attached to the conference center. And if you happen to want to check out any historic sites, look no further than Hearthstone Historic House Museum, the first home in the world powered by a Thomas Edison hydroelectric station. Fans 4 There may not be very many fans at the Banta Bowl during a typical game – aim for homecoming weekend if you want the best vibe – but the fans who are there are ALL IN! The fans are loud and raucous, constantly catcalling the referees and letting the coaches have it after a bad play. You will likely see a few fraternity members standing at the railing leading this charge, as well as a solid student section near the middle of the home side. Access 5 The Banta Bowl is not far from I-41, so it's pretty easy to get to no matter whether you are coming from the north, south, east, or west. And once you get to the stadium, you can park for free a mere few hundred feet from the stadium, even on a busy day like the homecoming matchup. Moving around the stadium is pretty easy as well – you can walk across the plaza behind the north end zone to get to either grandstand, and there are more than enough bathrooms to accommodate the crowd. There are also no lines at the concessions, even during the busiest games. Return on Investment 5 For only $5 per person admission, attending a Lawrence Vikings football game at the Banta Bowl is well worth it – you really can’t go wrong. Concessions are also super cheap, especially if you visit the main stand instead of the food trucks; the burgers and hot dogs are top-notch and very filling. Parking is also free. Extras 3 The scoreboard is the basic no-video kind, but the giveaways they have at the main entrance are a nice touch, and the staff plays some really great music during breaks in the action, the kind that makes you want to get up and dance. And while the stands are all metal bleachers without chairbacks, being able to find shade under the trees without having to truck in your own lawn chair is amazing. Final Thoughts If you are in the area, you should definitely go over and check out the Banta Bowl. It is a wonderful stadium on the D3 scene, which you won’t regret checking out. Go Vikings!

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Chapey Field at Anderson Stadium 1 Cunningham Square Providence, RI 02908 Providence College men's soccer website Chapey Field at Anderson Stadium website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 1,500 Defend the Chap Anderson Stadium is home to the Providence College soccer and lacrosse teams. Located next to Schneider Arena, the Stadium is part of the overall upgrade and consolidation of the school’s athletic facilities. Chapey Field at Anderson Stadium is named in honor of Mike and Maura Chapey, class of 1986, who donated one million dollars, and Board of Trustees member Karl and Kerri Anderson, class of 1988, who donated $1.5 million towards the construction of the facility. Providence College started fielding soccer teams in 1968. The Friars have qualified for 11 NCAA Tournaments, most recently in 2024. They reached the national semifinals in 2014. The women’s soccer team has qualified for three NCAA tournaments (1993, 2021 & 2023). Food & Beverage 2 Local favorite Saugy Franks operates a shack on the Anderson Stadium concourse. There’s a very basic menu available here, with hot dogs, pretzels, chips and drinks comprising all the available options. On the plus side, no items costs more than five dollars. No alcohol is permitted at Providence College soccer games. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks into Anderson Stadium. On cold fall Rhode Island days, you can expect to see a bunch of hot Dunkin’ beverages in the stands. Atmosphere 3 If you’re coming to a Friar soccer game expecting a rowdy time like you’d see at a European game or maybe even a North American professional game, you’re going to be disappointed. A college soccer game is usually a much more laid-back experience. There are no supporter sections here, and no student sections to be found, either. There’s not a lot of room for a college game day operations crew to insert themselves into a soccer game, especially when you compare it to other sports played on campus. That’s not to say that a college soccer game is a boring experience, it’s just different than other college sports. There’s a large video scoreboard in the northeast corner of the pitch at Anderson Stadium. It’s put to good use with graphics and videos throughout the game, although if you happen to be attending an afternoon game, it may be a bit difficult to see. The sound system is excellent, and music is played before the game and at halftime. The PA announcer keeps fans informed of substitutions and other game information in a workmanlike manner. Many fans in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the field and are knowledgeable and enthusiastic in their support. If you want to feel the real energy at Anderson Stadium, head to the berm on the south side of the pitch. That’s where many of the younger fans in attendance hang out, running around and making noise throughout the game. They may not always be paying attention to the game, but hey, they’re having a blast! You may even see some of these youngsters on the field at halftime playing soccer or taking shots on Providence’s legendary mascot, Friar Dom. Game Action at Anderson Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Anderson Stadium is part of a sprawling complex on the northern edge of the Providence College campus which houses most of the college’s athletic, fitness and social facilities. Located nearby are many of the school’s other athletic facilities, including Schneider Arena, Lennon Family Field, Ray Tracey Track and Alumni Hall. The Elmhurst neighborhood where Providence College is located is a residential, working-class neighborhood, so visiting fans will need to venture out a bit to find some of the city’s excellent dining, entertainment and lodging options. Luckily, downtown Providence is only about two miles from the PC campus. In addition to all the city’s attractions, the Amica Mutual Pavilion, home of the Friars’ basketball team, is located here. The loss of the Bradley Café, a popular student hangout, in March of 2026 was a huge blow to the PC community, but the owners have vowed to rebuild. For fans looking for a place to eat near campus, Stadium Journey recommends The Abbey, known for their collection of signature burgers and selection of 92 draft beers and LaSalle Bakery, where some of Providence’s finest baked goods can be found. Otherwise, we recommend you head downtown towards Federal Hill, Providence’s version of Little Italy, for more great dining options. Fans 3 The Friars draw decent crowds to Anderson Stadium. Crowds can vary in size depending on opponent, time of year and day of week, but you’re guaranteed to get a dedicated group of fans no matter what the size. With a good portion of the Friars’ schedule consisting of local opponents, you’ll often see a decent turnout by fans of the opposing team. As mentioned before, many of the fans in attendance have a personal connection with the players on the pitch and are enthusiastic with their support. There’s a significant presence from local youth teams at Anderson Stadium, and the youngsters bring their own energy to the game. While there’s decent support from the student body, there’s no organized student section at Anderson Stadium. National Anthem at Anderson Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Providence College is located in the residential Elmhurst neighborhood of Providence, about a mile from Route 146 and Interstate 95. To reach Anderson Stadium, fans will need to do some driving through the city, but the campus is still pretty easy to reach. Fans using public transportation will be pleased to know that RIPTA’s number 55 bus has a stop right next to Schneider Arena, adjacent to Anderson Stadium. With the majority of fans driving to Friar soccer games, parking is at a premium. Luckily, there is plenty of parking in the area. There is a two-level parking garage attached to the west grandstand of Anderson Stadium, as well as lots within walking distance of the facility. Many fans will opt for the on-street parking available on Huxley and Admiral Streets. Seating at Anderson Stadium consists of metal bleachers in the grandstands on either side of the pitch, with some individual stadium seats around midfield of the main (west) grandstand. There is a berm on the south side of the field. The younger fans in attendance keep this area buzzing with activity throughout the game. Fans are able to walk completely around the stadium, with views of the pitch and standing room available at all points. Restrooms are located in Schneider Arena next door to Anderson Stadium. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Friar soccer games is free, as is parking in the garage adjacent to Anderson Stadium. No items on Saugy’s regular menu cost more than five dollars. Fans are able to bring their own snacks into the game with them. As the season progresses through the fall months and the weather turns colder, it’s common to see lots of Dunkin’ coffee in the stands. Anderson Stadium Scoreboard. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 Providence College’s conference championship seasons and NCAA Tournament appearances for both the men’s and women’s teams are honored on the wall of the east grandstand. Fans wishing to see the Friars’ NCAA hockey championship trophy will find it in the lobby of Schneider Arena next door to Anderson Stadium. Final Thoughts Providence College is a small school with a big history in intercollegiate sports. They have been working hard to improve their on-campus facilities, and Anderson Stadium is a worthy result of these efforts. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Hodgetown 701 South Buchanan Street Amarillo, TX 79101 Amarillo Sod Poodles website Hodgetown website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 6,631 More Than a Dusty Cow Town To many outsiders, Amarillo, Texas is a small dusty cowtown where everyone rides horses; raises cattle; and wears cowboy boots, jeans, and hats everywhere they go. But while Western culture is alive and well here, with many of the world’s largest cattle ranches within a few hours’ drive, the Potter County capital itself is a bustling modern city replete with all the shopping, dining, and entertainment options of any major city. There are also a few museums that are well worth your time, including The Museum of Art, The American Quarter Horse Museum, and the world-famous Cadillac Ranch, a short 14-mile drive west on Interstate 40. Part of the colorful history of Amarillo is a deep-rooted relationship with professional baseball; beginning in 1922 with the Amarillo Gassers, there have been professional baseball teams here for most of the past 104 years. After the Gassers the city laid claim to the Amarillo Gold Sox, a club which called Amarillo home and played at various levels from 1939-1982, serving multiple parent clubs during its tenure. The Gold Sox left the Texas Panhandle to become the Beaumont Golden Gators, then later the Wichita Wranglers, and eventually the modern-day Northwest Arkansas Naturals. More recently, after a brief dalliance with different independent teams such as the Dillas, Sox, and Thunderheads, affiliated professional baseball returned to Amarillo in 2019 with the introduction of the Sod Poodles, and the opening of the new downtown gem, Hodgetown. Hodgetown creatively provides a local twist by combining ‘Hodge’, from Amarillo businessman, philanthropist, community leader, and 26th mayor Jerry Hodge, with ‘Town’ from Prairie Dog-naming culture, when several smaller colonies come together to form a larger community. Free of corporate branding or standard labels like ‘park’ or ‘stadium’, the venue’s unusual name perfectly mirrors its one-of-a-kind game-day experience. Food & Beverage 4 Concessions at Hodgetown offer numerous unique and thematic options in addition to the normal ballpark fare. With four full-service concession stands (Barnyard, Feed and Seed, Panhandle Pizza, and Route 66 Grill) all serving the traditional options plus premium choices, finding food and beverages is no problem. In addition to the full service stands along the concourse, there are also several standalone beverage and specialty food carts spread throughout the facility such as the Pepsi Party Deck in left field, as well as Dickey’s BBQ Pit and HTeaO. Food options vary from traditional items such as hot dogs, nachos, and burgers to game and series-specific items, such as loaded BBQ baked potatoes, calf fries, pork rind nachos, and regional favorite Frito pie (a combination of Fritos, chili, and cheese topped with onions and relish). One specialty food promotion here is to offer a ‘Food from Around the League’ premium item that honors the visiting team for each home series, such as the BBQ pulled pork onion ring burger which honored the Northwest Arkansas Naturals’ parent club, the Kansas City Royals, was available at Route 66 Grill on the concourse. Traditional baseline food options are generally between $5 and $8, while premium options cost between $15 and $20. Drinks run between $6 and $9, but in an effort to be more budget friendly, the Soddies recently introduced four value meals that include a main item, popcorn, and a drink (either a 16 oz. soft drink or a 12 oz. beer) for less than $15. Pepsi is the soft drink company of choice in regular or refillable (free refills) souvenir cups. Many domestic beers, plus multiple local and regional craft beers, are available at the different party decks, including Bar 352 just beyond the left field wall. Other alcohol options include wine and mixed drinks, especially multiple flavors of margaritas from Marg House. In addition to the multiple drink and quality food options offered here on a daily basis, the Sod Poodles offer numerous food and drink promotions that tie in with other stadium events. All these options have helped move Hodgetown’s concessions to the short list of best vendors in minor league baseball. Atmosphere 4 As an anchor to Amarillo’s downtown scene, Hodgetown is a beautiful setting for its passionate fans. Baseball fans in the Panhandle of Texas have been passionate about the game dating back to the days of independent baseball, as the Amarillo teams typically led their leagues in attendance. Averaging between 5,000 and 6,000 fans per game, the Soddies consistently play in front of a passionate fan base. At the most recent game I attended, for example, there were fans lined up more than an hour before the gates opened, in anticipation of the jersey giveaway promotion that night. In-game hosts and game staff create a fan-friendly environment starting before the game begins. Drew Goodman, the play-by-play broadcaster here, hosts his pregame show on field, and multiple giveaways and promotional contests take place between the time gates open and when play begins. Once play begins, interactive between-inning games and activities using the scoreboard keep fans engaged, limiting downtime. Children also have access to a small play area in the right field concourse, as well as a more exclusive area if desired. Neighborhood 4 Hodgetown is the hub of downtown Amarillo; there are numerous office buildings and parking garages near the stadium, which means evening and weekend games take place when traffic is mostly gone. There are also a handful of nearby eateries, including Jimmy John’s across the street from the main entrance to the venue. Other restaurants within walking distance include Crush Wine Bar & Grill, Six Car Pub and Brewery, and Napoli’s. If food challenges are more your thing, try The Big Texan a few miles away; a world-famous steakhouse where you can take on a 72 oz. steak dinner. Complete the steak within 60minutes, along with a loaded baked potato and side salad, and you join the short list of gastronomy heroes. However, if the steak is the victor, you might need a small loan to pay for your experience and the story that comes along with it. Amarillo is large enough to offer hotels and short-term rentals in all price and amenity ranges. For hotels within walking distance of the baseball diamond, the best options include Embassy Suites (immediately across from the third base gate), Courtyard by Marriott, and The Barfield. Less costly choices can be found by choosing accommodations further away from the stadium. Fans 5 Sod Poodle fans deserve full credit for their passion and energy. In terms of attendance they have consistently been one of the highest ranked teams in the Texas League, if not all of minor league baseball, since their inception. Last season they ranked 2nd in the Texas League, averaging nearly 5000 fans per game, which put them in the upper tier of minor league baseball. During the most recent game I attended, there was a near sellout on a Sunday afternoon with the chance of rain in early spring. Not only are fans at Hodgetown present in large numbers, but they are passionate as well – they even lined up hours before the gates opened to get free replica jerseys for one of the alternate identities, the Yellow City Pigweeds. The fans’ excitement and energy help the team create an environment where visitors enjoy watching games. Access 4 Located just north of the intersection of Interstates 27 and 40 in downtown Amarillo, Hodgetown is easily accessible from any direction. Streets are clearly marked, and parking is plentiful – the City of Amarillo states there are over 7000 public parking spaces within walking distance of the facility, including nearly 70 handicapped spaces in the city hall lot across the street from the third base gate. Fans can enter the venue using either the third base entrance or the main gate, the latter of which leads to home plate, and is located at the corner of Buchanan Street and S. 8th Street. Once inside, 360-degree access is available via a ground level concourse. Seating is in a sunken-bowl setting, which makes movement around the ballpark easy. Return on Investment 4 Outfield berm tickets can be purchased for less than $10, while the most expensive seats in the house go for approximately $35 (behind home plate on weekends). Parking around the facility costs around $8, although handicapped parking is free by Texas state law, if you have the proper signage. The cost of concessions items at Hodgetown is consistent with other Texas League venues, with some days of the week offering special promotions and prices for specific items. The pricing of souvenirs is also in line with most other minor league teams, as well. All these considerations lead to helping the Sod Poodles create a positive return on investment. Once you factor ease of access and fan passion into the equation, the chance of a high-quality game experience is sure to increase. I enjoyed my time at Hodgetown, and would relish another trip. Extras 5 Alternate identities with catchy logos such as the Calf Fries, Yellow City Pigweeds, and Pointy Boots have helped generate a large variety of merchandise to choose from at the team store. The crowd’s engagement and involvement during the game creates a fun environment, which is key since not every fan base is active during games. Concessionaires and team employees are friendly and engaging; I had multiple questions during my visit, and every interaction was met with a smile and positive reception. The efficiency and speed at which fans move through the gates is also amazing – at the last game I attended the lines were a block long to get into the game, but were cleared within minutes of the gates opening. The ease in which you can get in and out of downtown Amarillo is also worth extra points; I was there for two days in a row, and never had trouble getting to or from the facility. Final Thoughts While Amarillo may not lead most people’s vacation lists, Hodgetown should definitely be on the short list of minor league parks baseball fans want to attend; it offers amenities and perks that many other baseball stadiums are unable to duplicate.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Toyota Stadium 9200 World Cup Way Frisco, TX 75034 FC Dallas website Toyota Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 20,500 A Work in Progress Rises in Frisco The FC Dallas franchise was already a trendsetter back in the early 2000s, when they designed and built one of the first soccer-specific stadiums in Major League Soccer. The size, configuration, and intimate game day experience became an instant hit. The template has since been emulated across the entire swath of the league, with a building boom continuing in existing and expansion cities. FC Dallas took it one step further, adding the National Soccer Hall of Fame, which opened in 2018. This is a resplendent museum and interactive series of exhibits, adding a unique dimension to this complex and making it a true destination even on non-game days. Come 2025, and it will be an entire remake and reimagination of Toyota Stadium. Just about the entire stadium is being demolished and remodeled, side by side, and come 2028, a completely new venue will entertain fans and athletes alike, offering new comforts, amenities, and a canopied roof to shelter patrons from the summer sun and much, much more. Food & Beverage 5 The entire array of concession fare at Toyota Stadium does not disappoint. There is a broad selection of food items, with something for everyone. Concession stands ring the entire main concourse of the stadium. Some examples: The Takis, offering their signature Striker Burrito stuffed with the usual ingredients and tater tots ($18). Their Italian sausage sub is topped with giardiniera ($12). The usual stuff: hot dogs ($6), pretzels/popcorn ($6), souvenir soda ($9), available at most stands. The best bargain these days is a Wild Hero draft beer for only $5. Their Philly cheesesteak and a specialty item called Meatza Pizza Fries ($18). A Coca-Cola BBQ bacon burger goes for $14. Yeah, they do offer Buffalo Wings ($12). There is a local chain selling their feature Corny Dogs, but they're listed on the menu as “CornDog With No Name”. There’s got to be a story behind that flap! Atmosphere 4 There is an actual tailgate scene here at Toyota Stadium. In the parking lots off the west side of the stadium, fans participate in several pregame rituals. The supporters section? Meh. Tucked into one corner on the southwest side of the venue, we can assume the craziness has been muted for one major reason. In 2025, the entire east stand was closed off for reconstruction, and this construction phase renovation has somewhat dulled what would normally be a roaring stadium in a cozy setting. All this should change once the new stadium is completed. Nonetheless, these fans are serious about their sport, support the team in droves, and offers a pretty energetic game day atmosphere, even with the interim stadium configuration. Capacity Crowd at Toyota Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 5 First-time visitors would normally come here with low expectations. How much joy can one expect from a stadium tucked away in the suburbs, far from the Dallas urban core, and most likely surrounded by acres of parking, soul-crushing suburban plazas, and wide roads of vehicles? Big mistake! The City of Frisco is an upscale bedroom community with plenty to offer. There are plenty of restaurants within easy walking distance, residential condominiums, and lofts in abundance. Frisco is also the home of an AA baseball team, as well as the practice facility for the NFL's Dallas Cowboys. The streetscapes are attractive, the neighborhood is safe, and there is an actual vibe to the district. This really is a must-visit spot with plenty of other attractions and activities. Fans 3 The Dallas faithful do not break attendance records, but one has to say this: these people show up in some oppressive heat and support their team in a venue that currently has just scant comfort for the elements. There are flags everywhere, the supporters tailgate, chant, and cheer. It is probably not the premier MLS venue when it comes to fan energy and support, but a solid one nonetheless. Scarf Display at Toyota Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Access 4 The Dallas North Tollway gets you here from pretty much anyplace in the Dallas Metroplex, and the network of highways handles stadium traffic with ease. There is a public transportation option via DART bus 308, which runs from downtown Dallas to just outside Toyota Stadium. Check online for schedules. Return on Investment 4 Parking used to be free, but now non-season ticket holders are charged $20 to park in the general Corolla Red, Highlander Green, Sienna Blue, and RAV4 White Lots. Be aware that there are parking ramps in the commercial district south of the stadium offering parking at better price points, and even free spaces on the street if you arrive early enough. As for ticket prices, the numbers vary widely, but use a baseline of $49 to get an average price seat at an average game. Secondary websites offer tickets as low as $13, and it pays to shop. The team also offer a pricier ticket with an “all you can eat” option. National Soccer Hall of Fame Entrance at Toyota Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Extras 5 We have to give a massive score bump for this for one reason - the National Soccer Hall of Fame. This museum really should be visited without the distraction of an actual game in the stadium, as the facility is a superb look into the Beautiful Game and all the great history of the sport here in the United States. The façade and entry plaza on the south side of the venue are inviting, the exhibits are immersive, and display state of the art. Dallas can claim this attraction as its very own, and that alone propels it to the list of elite venues in MLS. Final Thoughts The “New Toyota Stadium” project is well underway, with construction disruptions and service/comfort compromises sure to affect the fan experience for the next two years. Once complete, the Dallas FC experience promises to be one of the superior ones in the United States. Make a trip here, plan to stay, and take in all that the City of Frisco has to offer.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Riders Field 7725 Gaylord Pkwy Frisco, TX 75034 Frisco RoughRiders website Riders Field website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 10,316 Frisco RoughRiders - Riders Field Frisco, Texas is a bustling suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in north Texas. As home to the world headquarters of the Dallas Cowboys, Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas, Dude Perfect’s New Theme Park, and the PGA Tour’s new corporate facility, as well as many museums and numerous shopping options, Frisco has become a destination city, especially for sports enthusiasts. Riders Field is a beautiful “Park within a Park”, utilizing different pavilions for concessions separated by a dirt and tree-lined concourse, creating a series of interconnected spaces instead of one single monumental structure. The feel one gets once entering the gates is that you have entered a cozy coastal village, instead of a traditional ballpark. Food & Beverage 5 There are 16 unique food and beverage vendors, each serving different menu options. Each standalone concession stand offers different items and is named in such a manner that the flavor profile of the food is obvious. For example, El Rincon and Rojo’s serve Mexican-inspired dishes, Frank’s and Coop and Kennel serve hot dogs and chicken dishes, respectively, while The Sweet Spot serves ice cream. There are also three separate bar areas where mixed drinks are offered in addition to beer. All these areas are also enclosed, with air conditioning and TVs showing live action of the game – this can create a nice respite during hot Texas summer evenings. Beer options are not limited to just the popular domestics, either; you can also get Yeungling, Dos Equis, Eight, and Shiner among other brands around the ballpark. In addition, if beer is not your alcohol of choice, mixed drinks, especially local favorite margaritas, and several wine options are also available. Non-alcoholic drink options are Dr Pepper and 7-Up products, based on a previous naming rights deal with Dr Pepper for the stadium. Other non-alcoholic options include bottled water, lemonade, and Snapple, as well as both white and chocolate milk. Atmosphere 5 Riders Field presents a unique visual experience beginning when you drive up – the light blue pavilions trimmed in white look like architecture you would see in a coastal town, not in the middle of a north Texas community, and no matter which gate you use to enter the ballpark, you will pass through the buildings before seeing the field itself. Once you have passed through the walkway between buildings, you realize that the concourse is at ground level and the field is lower, which presents a beautiful image. The traditional viewpoint from home plate out toward centerfield is picturesque, as is the inverse, looking back toward home from the centerfield fence. In fact, the most vivid image this writer saw was looking back toward home plate and the beautiful buildings as the sun was setting. The coup de maître is the Lazy River and CoServ Cabana just past the right field fence; while this area is for group outings most game days, it is available for single game tickets on Thursdays and Sundays. Also, just a word to the wise – Thursday evening is sponsored by Twisted Tea and dubbed “Rowdy @ The River”, so attend that night knowing the pool area will be packed, loud and full of energy! Neighborhood 5 Riders Field is located in Frisco, Texas, a suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The stadium is nestled in a bustling shopping district and destination mecca near the intersection of two major highways running through North Texas. There are plenty of hotels to choose from within walking distance of the ballpark including Embassy Suites-Frisco (which is attached to the ballpark), Hilton Garden Inn-Frisco, Hyatt House Dallas-Frisco, and Tru by Hilton Inn-Frisco, among others. In addition, the lodging options within a few minutes’ drive of the stadium include most price points and amenity levels. When looking for dining options outside the stadium, the choices within a short drive are virtually endless; one can easily walk to Wild Pitch Sports Bar and Grill, Perry’s Steakhouse, Norma’s Cafe, Rodeo Goat, or Gloria’s Cantina, among others. Fans 4 The Roughriders consistently rank in the top 5 for attendance in Double A baseball. In 2024, they averaged over 5,100 fans per game, seeing a total of 371,149 people pass through the gates. Frisco fans are knowledgeable and attentive to the game, as well – they are loud at appropriate times, assisted by the large video scoreboard, which gives cues at key moments. Many factors have created such an inviting atmosphere here; the stadium’s design presents a unique visual experience, while in-game promotions keep fans engaged, which appeals to fans of all ages and interest levels. It’s easy to see how Riders Field could be a popular after work hangout for young professionals, looking to spend after hours leisure time together. The team’s location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, the nation’s 4th largest such area, plus their proximity to the parent club, the Texas Rangers (a mere 30 minute commute south), provides the perfect set-up for rehab assignments. This gives fans a chance to witness big league players in action at lower ticket prices, and at a much closer vantage point than usually possible in MLB parks. At a recent RoughRiders game, for example, Wyatt Langford played in front of over 12,000 fans. Access 4 Located just off the intersection of Dallas North Tollway and State Highway 121, and less than 30 miles from both Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport, Riders Field is easily accessible no matter which airline is chosen for out-of-town travelers. Other than the normal traffic of a major city, traffic flow around the ballpark is smooth and clearly marked. With signage posted beginning over a mile from the venue, it’s not difficult to get to the designated parking areas from multiple points of entry. The main parking lot sits across Rough Riders Trail from the south of the stadium and the main gate, while ticket windows are at the corner of Rough Rider Trail and Diamond Drive. The facility is easily walkable from multiple hotels and a large shopping mall. There is no public transit that services the area, but there should be plenty of rideshare rides available around the clock. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range from $14 to $45 with most tickets in the bowl area costing $25 or less. There are no bad seats inside Riders Field, so no matter where you choose to sit the sightlines are clear and top-notch, ensuring the game will be an enjoyable experience. Parking for RoughRider games is only $10, and the lot is across the street from the main entrance is large enough to hold most of the vehicles during a normal game. There are a couple of free parking options as well; one choice is to park and walk from Stonebriar Mall, while the other option is to park in the limited number of parallel parking spots along the streets surrounding the facility. In the humble opinion of this author, however, neither of the free parking options are better than parking within 50 yards of the entrance in a well-lit, secure lot for a single ten-dollar bill. Concession prices here are slightly higher than at other Texas League stadiums in Texas and its surrounding states. For example, a souvenir soda costs $9, bottled water $5, and a 16-ounce beer $9.50. Hot dog baskets are $11, burgers cost $15, and most other specialty food items will require between $16 and $20. Most importantly, don’t forget your debit/credit card (or your smartphone), as Riders Field is cashless and only accepts digital or card payments. Extras 5 Between inning games and activities are prevalent, and the crowd is entertained during most of the breaks in play, beginning with the “Play Ball” Kid before first pitch. The emcees are also engaging during the fan interaction games that take place; examples include the Frozen T-Shirt Race, quizzes, relay races, and the 7th-inning stretch. Other between-inning crowd engagement activities include the Simba cam, Dance cam, Dot Race, and Kiss cam, all of which utilize the big scoreboard located in left-center field. All these engaging pursuits, combined with the MiLB push to speed up games via the between-inning and pitch clocks, ensure there is little downtime, making the game fly by. The Lazy River and Cabana not only create a signature touch at Riders Field, but also ensure that fans can enjoy a ballgame in a cool setting on a hot Thursday evening or Sunday afternoon. The staff and fans are extremely friendly and helpful – every person this writer came in contact with was approachable and more than willing to provide assistance, or engage in a brief conversation. Souvenirs can be acquired from the Rider Outpost team store, which is large and very well stocked. There is a wide selection of t-shirts and caps in many sizes and colors; the most popular logos appear to include some form of Teddy Roosevelt, the original RoughRider and 26th US President, but the Double R logo on the home cap provides a classic look on a modern-style hat. Concessions can also be purchased using Stadium Drop – fans are able to scan a QR code, order and pay digitally, and then have their food delivered to their seat. This is an extremely convenient option which this writer personally didn’t utilize, but I can see how the convenience is worth any extra expense or time required for the wait. Final Thoughts Frisco RoughRider games are a wonderful experience; the setting is beautiful and the game presentation is top notch. Concessions here are above average and the options are plentiful, even though the prices are slightly higher than other teams at the same level of play. Based on the location in the north DFW suburb of Frisco, shopping, dining, and outside entertainment nearby are practically endless. Accessibility via a personal vehicle, or via air travel using your airline of choice, should be no problem since both Dallas-Love Field (Southwest Airlines) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport are approximately the same distance from Riders Field. Riders Field is a must-visit location for any baseball fan, and can easily be included in a multi-stadium vacation due to its proximity to many other minor league and independent league ballparks, as well as to Globe Life Field, home of the Riders’ parent club Texas Rangers.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Dickey-Stephens Park 400 W Broadway North Little Rock, AR 72114 Arkansas Travelers website Dickey-Stephens Park website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 7,300 All Aboard Travs Baseball Baseball in the Little Rock area has been around since 1887 with the Little Rock Travelers. Named from the folk song, “The Arkansas Traveler” the team from Little Rock enjoyed two titles and fielded a team until 1961. Baseball royalty including Pat Gillick and Cal Ripken Sr. saw their careers run through the Arkansas capital. The modern Arkansas Travelers were established in the International League in 1963. After one year, Arkansas traveled to the Pacific Coast League for two seasons before settling in at the Double-A level and the Texas League. The Travelers spent the bulk of their existence as the affiliate for the St. Louis Cardinals (1966-2000), but as of 2017 have been the Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Since moving to the Texas League, success has not been a stranger to the Travs as they have enjoyed eight league titles (1966, 1971, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1989, 2001, 2008). In 1960, Arkansas baseball legend Ray Winder led a public stock drive purchased the New Orleans baseball franchise, and moved it to Little Rock. The modern Travs have been a publicly owned company ever since Arkansas Travelers Baseball Inc. The home for the Travs is Dickey-Stephens Park. Located across the river from Little Rock, in North Little Rock, Dickey-Stephens Park was named after two sets of brothers, Major Leaguers Bill and George Dickey, and businessmen George and Jackson Stephens, and is located near the Union Pacific Railyard. The City of North Little Rock-owned park takes the railroad motif and rolls with it since opening in 2007, and provides a terrific backdrop for Minor League Baseball. Food & Beverage 5 Concession options at Dickey-Stephens Park are excellent. Several concession stands offer a wide variety of ballpark options and options well beyond the expected ballpark fare. For those who love hot dogs, Nathan’s are the dog of choice at the park, and Seattle, Chicago, Detroit, and Texas Dogs can be found at the Fielder’s Choice stand. Frito Chili Pie, BBQ Pork Sandwiches, Jalapeno Cheese Stuffed Pretzels, Cheese Curds, and regular and Deep Fried Pickles are among the best choices. Carnival fare such as corn dogs, deep-fried Oreos and deep-fried PB&J take the options to the next level. There is a huge selection of beer that can be found at Brewski Junction for those interested in a brew on a baseball evening. There’s something for everyone at Dickey-Stephens. Atmosphere 4 Overall, Dickey-Stephens Park is a nice park with a classic feel that needs a bit of a paint job. Dickey-Stephens Park takes a train station motif and weaves it throughout the ballpark. The exterior is brown brick and is built to look like an old-time train station, complete with a clock tower. Outside of the main gate hang four bronze plaques immortalizing the two sets of brothers, the Dickeys and the Stephens, who are the fathers of baseball in North Little Rock. Also outside of the main gate is a sculpture of a batter, which adds to the ambiance. Inside the main gate, the train motif continues with an old-school wooden ticket booth which serves as an information booth and customer service. The 360 concourse is behind all of the seating and beneath the luxury boxes. The luxury box and press box level features unique forest green siding under a shingle roof. The seating area is split with five rows of green stadium seats in the lower section and twelve rows in the upper level. Berm seating is found past the right and left field fences. The beer garden is at field level past the first base dugout. A nice view of the Broadway Street Bridge can be seen from the third base side of the ballpark. The team store keeps the train theme going as the Travelers Crossing; berm seating areas are The Platform and The Yard; and concession stands are named The Box Car, Border Stop, and Doubleday’s Depot. The Travelers Museum is found in the concourse behind home plate, but unfortunately was closed on the day of this review. Past right field, a train can be found to give kids rides and Otey’s Splash Pad and kids area give the little ones a place to let loose and keep cool. For a team with such a significant history as the Travelers, there is very little history on display. Plaques for baseball dignitaries Ray Winder, Jim Elder, and Max Moses are found in the concourse, but there were not any obvious indicators of the eight league titles that the Travelers have earned or the obligatory displays of MiLB players who have gone on to the Majors. The gameday production at a Travelers game is fairly simple. One of the main features is the old-school organist, who is quite young and plays from the concourse behind the plate. The video board stands past left field and features a clock and faux flags at the top. It is assumed that mascots Ace and Otey are found during most games, however, the game that was reviewed featured very high temperatures, making it understandable that the mascots were nowhere to be found. Neighborhood 4 Dickey-Stephens Park is located right along the river in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Just North of the Arkansas River and Arkansas Capital, North Little Rock does offer some spots for pre or post-game food and drink. Flyway Brewing, Brood and Barley, Diamond Bear Brewing, Skinny J’s, and Diamond Bear Brewing are all options worth considering. As far as other sporting options go, Little Rock is fairly limited. Heading south, across the river is the best plan, and taking in some Little Rock Trojans NCAA Basketball may be the best plan, however, the seasons do not readily cross. Trojans baseball may be a better plan. As far as other tourist options go, the Northshore Riverwalk Park is mere steps from the Ballpark and the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is a couple blocks away near the fairgrounds. Otherwise, heading south to Little Rock offers more options including the Historic Arkansas Museum, Clinton Library & Museum, and Gateway Bridge Trail. For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Wyndham Riverfront can be seen from the park. Fans 4 The Travs have enjoyed strong support at the box office for a long time. In 2023, the Arkansas Travelers averaged over 4,800 fans per game, up over 400 fans per game from the previous season. This puts them in 43rd place in all of Minor League Baseball and 4th in the Texas League. Although the attendance wasn’t up to average on the game that was attended, probably due to the three-figure temperature at first pitch, the Travs did enjoy a supportive crowd and into the game. Access 4 Getting to Dickey-Stephens Park is not too difficult. Located in North Little Rock, on the north shore of the Arkansas River, the park is west of I-30 and there is easy access from the highway. The main parking lot is to the west of the park and there is easy access with a convenient tunnel underneath the road leading to the park. For fans wanting to take public transit to the game, some buses travel along Maple Street and Broadway and the trolley travels a block east on Main Street. Ticket windows are located outside, on the north side of the ballpark. Getting around the park is not too difficult and the washroom facilities are good. The washrooms do lack any air conditioning making them pretty rough on a hot day. Return on Investment 5 The Arkansas Travelers offer terrific value for the sporting dollar. Tickets for the Travs begin at $7 for berm seating and go up to $15. Parking is under $10 and concession prices are what one would expect for a minor-league park. The park is a great venue for Minor League Baseball and the product on the field is strong. Overall, it is a great opportunity to get the family out to a game and not break the bank in the process. Extras 2 An extra mark for the railway motif, which is found throughout Dickey-Stephens Park and offers a unique experience among minor league parks. An extra mark for the history of the Travelers. The Travs boast the third-longest nickname duration in MiLB behind the Buffalo Bisons and Indianapolis Indians. Final Thoughts A trip to Dickey-Stephens Park to see the Arkansas Travelers is a great way to spend a summer evening or weekend afternoon. The Travs offer great value in a unique setting at a family-friendly price. A must for all baseball fans. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 UPMC Park 110 E 10th St Erie, PA 16501 Erie SeaWolves website UPMC Park website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 6,000 A Great Ballpark on the Shores of Lake Erie UPMC Park is the home of the Erie SeaWolves of the Eastern League. The home of the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers was built in 1995 to lure minor league baseball back to town after a one-year hiatus. The stadium seats 6,000 people, features a unique seating bowl configuration, and has a left wall that is connected to the city’s hockey venue, Erie Insurance Arena. The SeaWolves began as a Pittsburgh Pirates affiliate in the New York-Penn League and proved very popular, setting a league attendance record of 181,815 in their first season. They broke the record in 1997 with 196,212 fans through the turnstiles. The club's popularity was such that it advanced to Double-A ball in 1999, serving as the farm team of the Anaheim Angels. That affiliation would last until 2001 when the Detroit Tigers became the parent club. Minor league baseball in Erie dates back to 1906, and for the majority of those years, the team's name was the Sailors. For much of that history, games were played at Ainsworth Field. The site was first used in 1913, and in 1947, a new structure was erected. However, by 1993, the facility was outdated and not aligned with the modern standards for minor league stadiums. The team would relocate to Fishkill, New York, and be renamed the Hudson Valley Renegades. The construction of UPMC Park, originally known as Jerry Uht Park, provided a sense of pride to the community. The cozy ballpark produced sell-outs and put the city on the map in comparison to the nearby larger markets of Cleveland, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh. Food & Beverage 4 The ballpark selection of food at the many concession stands and kiosks. Fans new to town may want to purchase a few local options that can only be found in Erie. Smith’s natural casing hot dogs are locally made and offer a wonderful snap with every bite. They are the hot dogs of choice at the ballpark and are one-hundred-percent beef. Pepperoni balls might be the city’s official food, and they can be found at the stadium. The warm balls of dough are stuffed with pepperoni and cheese and then deep-fried. They are the perfect type of snack to enjoy at the ballpark. The third option is the roast ox sandwich, which is a roast beef sandwich served on a hamburger bun with its natural juices. A few more local options include the Greek Dog, made famous by the local New York Lunch restaurant, and Slow Hat Ice Cream, featuring the following flavors: bourbon caramel pecan, grasshopper pie, graham canyon, and deep sea treasure - served by the scoop down the first base side of the stadium. The alcoholic drinks are varied and offer everything from beer, hard seltzers, lemonade, and canned cocktails. The brand names include Bud Light, Corona, Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, Yuengling Lager, and varieties from New Belgium and Southern Tier Breweries. You can even get a tall 24-ounce can of Labatt Blue and Busch Light at the game. A few items of note include deep-fried Oreos, a mac and cheese helmet, a chicken and bacon wrap, beer bats, and the South of the Border grill that includes a burrito bowl and super nachos. Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice, and cash and credit are both accepted at most concession stands. Atmosphere 4 You can always tell what the atmosphere will be like an hour before the game. Fans line up outside the main entrance in the right field corner and watch the stadium crew prepare for the game. Giant inflatable rides are positioned in the Flagship Funland area, a small brass band prepares for tonight’s performance, programs are placed on racks, and a soundcheck tests out the PA system. All of this is well before the gates are open to the fans. When the gates open up, the ballpark comes alive. The right field entrance is the hub of activity, including the team gift shop, which is packed with SeaWolves merchandise, ranging from faux back caps, the alternative Moon Mammoths, and their normal on-field fashions. Customers come out of their store with handfuls of shirts, caps, and other items to take back home. Outside the team store is Celebration Cove, offering numerous picnic tables and standing-room-only seats that line up the left field line. The Flagship Funland is a play area for kids, featuring putt-putt, a bouncy house, basketball nets, and other inflatable slides and rides. The design is vastly different from the typical Double-A stadium. It offers lower box seating on both sides. However, the left field seating bowl is a traditional design that incorporates a large area of seats and suites on top with concession areas below. The right field seating area is an upper deck design. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is downtown and next to the Erie Insurance Arena, where the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League operate from September to March. If in town during the summer months, there are many options a few blocks away, offering indoor and outdoor seating before and after the game. BIGBAR is known for deep-dish pizzas, cheesesteak sandwiches, calzones, and chicken wings, with 22 varieties of sauces and dry rubs. The corner restaurant is a popular destination, but the kitchen closes at 10 pm every day of the week. Further down from the stadium is Calamari’s Squid Row, which features flatbread pizzas, wraps, and chicken parmesan sandwiches, including an outdoor patio. A few spots for a drink or two exist at Cloud 9, Room 33 Speakeasy, and the Plymouth Tavern. There are also two microbreweries near UPMC Park: Voodoo Brewing Company and Lavery Brewing. Voodoo is off the busy State Street and offers a relaxed atmosphere. Lavery features a free parking lot, couches, board games, and a food menu of handheld sandwiches and small bites. The Lake Erie waterfront is worth a visit. There are pirate ship tours, stunning sunset views from The Shoreline Bar & Grill. The Erie Maritime Museum and Bicentennial Tower are two places to visit. Presque Isle State Park is a 3,112-acre state park located on a sandy, curved peninsula that extends into Lake Erie, just 4 miles west of the city. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, beaches, and sunset views. For the baseball traveler, Ainsworth Field is worth checking out. It is less than 3 miles from the SeaWolves home and is a 1947 structure that has seating for 3,000 people. There might be an event taking place during your visit, and adding another baseball game is always a plus in our book. Fans 3 SeaWolves games are well-attended on most weekend nights. The visitor should expect a large crowd ready to enjoy a night out at the ballpark. The fandom has supported the team with record crowds in its 30-plus-year history. Those numbers are not as big as they used to be, but various promotions and giveaways draw in the Erie faithful. Access 3 UPMC Park is a downtown minor league ballpark and offers very little parking. The best options are to park on the street and pay the meter (25 cents every 20 minutes) until 6 PM. There are private lots near the ballpark that charge a small fee and a few free spots further down the road. The stadium’s design is unusual, featuring a small concourse that leads fans to their seats. The third base side offers a majority of upper box seating, and the first base side features a majority of lower box seating. The main entrance of the stadium is in the left field corner. Return on Investment 4 There are two price points: $16 for upper box seating and $20 for lower box seating. However, if purchasing within a day of the game, the price is reduced by $3 and $4, respectively. The concession prices are in line with other Eastern League stadiums, and there is quite a variety of options, including 24-ounce cans of beer for $9. The gift shop is brimming with merchandise on the shelves, and a hat and t-shirt combo sells for $40, but expect to pay $28 and up for most team caps and special identities. Extras 4 UPMC Park earns a point for its pre-game celebration at the third base entrance that includes a festive play area for kids, free programs, a live band, and plenty of food options. The second point is for the regional foods that include pepperoni balls, ox tail sandwiches, and Smith’s natural casing wieners. The design of the ballpark earns a third point. It stands out among other venues in minor league baseball and offers a few quirks, including the hockey arena doubling as the left field wall and stadium club building, offering a rooftop view of the field. Final Thoughts UPMC Park was a fun night at the ballpark. The pre-game ceremonies, food options, merchandise variety, and vantage points place it in a category all of its own in the Eastern League. When you add the city of Erie to your travels, you have a pleasant weekend to spend along the lake with friends and family. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 St. Vincent Health Field 3200 Cold Spring Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46250 Marian University website St. Vincent Field website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 3,500 Small Town College Football in Indianapolis The Marian University football program began in 2007, but it was not until three years later that it played its first game on campus. St. Vincent Health Field is a 3,500-seat stadium that is on the southwestern part of campus and is home to the school’s soccer program, women’s lacrosse, and track and field. The first game was played on September 19, 2009, against Grand View University in front of 3,212 fans. The Knights won 34-16, and it marked the first time that a football game was played in the school's 73-year history, which was originally founded by the Sisters of St. Francis in Oldenburg, Indiana. The Knights have been successful as members of the NAIA, capturing two national championships in 2012 and 2015, while finishing as finalists in 2019. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand is underneath the home grandstand and offers three windows of service to expedite orders. The items offered at the game are hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, candy, chips, soda pop, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches. The Champion Zone is the northern corner of the stadium, featuring a tent, tables, TVs, and a patio area overlooking the field. Fans can enjoy hot appetizers and two drinks with a $35 admission fee ($20 for fans 21 and under). Atmosphere 3 The game we attended was Family Day, and there were more than the usual pre-game activities taking place. Besides the tailgating, which takes place before every game in designated areas, the campus was sprinkled with tables, kids' zones, tents, and a live band. It was a fun way to begin the afternoon for the game. Once inside the stadium, the home side of the bleachers was packed with Knights fans who made their presence felt throughout the game. The stadium is designed with an 8-lane track surrounding the field, while a 500-seat visitor section is on the east side of the field. A recently installed video board is on the south side of the endzone. There is a concession cart and table set up near the entrance stocked with sweaters, caps, shirts, and other trinkets. Cheerleaders and the dance team entertain fans during breaks and after scores. The cheer team tosses out prizes to fans from the track that surrounds the field. The atmosphere is festive, comparable to a well-attended high school football game. Neighborhood 2 Marian University is 6 miles north of downtown along the White River. The area near the school features a collection of retail chains and local establishments, but your best bet would be to head downtown or to Speedway, a 4-mile drive. Speedway is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the downtown area has improved over the past few years. Besides being home to the Indy 500, fans can enjoy the IMS Hall of Fame and Museum throughout the year. A few spots of interest include the 1911 Grill overlooking two indoor kart tracks and offering American pub food. Bourbon and Barbecue serve smoked Memphis-style brisket and pork and feature an impressive array of bourbon. Big Woods and Daredevil Brewing are great spots for local craft beer and cuisine. Downtown Indy offers many spots, but I would recommend Mass Ave. or Fountain Square for a collection of local restaurants, bars, breweries, and the Bottleworks District, which offers The Garage, an upscale and adult-friendly food court with regional and world cuisine and drinks. The former Coca-Cola bottling plant also houses a bowling alley, hotel, and movie theater. Fans 4 The Knights draw well and have a dedicated fanbase that tailgates and supports the team from the grandstand. Supporters wear team gear, participate in unison cheers during three-down defense stops, and provide a great soundtrack to the action on the gridiron. Access 3 The stadium is nicely spaced out with plenty of room to move around underneath the grandstand. The main entrance is also spread out, which allows access to the visitor and home stands. There are parking spots around the stadium at different points; some require a bit of a walk through campus. Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets for adults are $10, reserved tickets are $12, and chairback tickets are $15. If ordered online, a $1 surcharge will be added to each ticket. However, when purchasing at the box office, there was only $10 admission advertised. Seniors (65 & under) and military members get in for $5. The university does not charge for parking, but we have been told there could be a $10 lot closer to the stadium. Food and merchandise pricing is comparable to other facilities, fair and average. Extras 3 The stadium experience earns a point for the pre-game activities on campus that include bouncy houses for the kids, lawn games, tables, and tailgating tents. It creates a festive vibe when walking to the football game. The Champions Zone is a nice addition to the stadium and provides a little extra food and beverage for ticket holders. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter, and on Instagram.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, James Hilchen, and Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Fifth Third Park 2100 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI 48201 Detroit Tigers website Fifth Third Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 41,083 The Tiger Den Note: Comerica Park will become Fifth Third Park beginning with the 2027 MLB baseball season, following Comerica’s merger with Fifth Third Bank. The Detroit Tigers are one of the oldest major league teams in the American League. They have played in several stadiums during their more than 130 years of existence. These include Bennett Park, Briggs Stadium, and Tiger Stadium. They have won four World Series (1935, 1945, 1968 and 1984). Comerica Park has served as the home of the Tigers since 2000. It has an upper deck behind the plate and down the two baselines, with an overall capacity of 41,083. The outfield area at Comerica Park has no upper deck, allowing fans to have a clear view of the Downtown Detroit skyline. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions program at Comerica Park offers a wide variety of food and beverages. They include Little Caesar’s Pizza, National Coney Island, Guernsey Farms Dairy, Dippin' Dots, and both branded beer stands as well as a Michigan Craft Beer stand in the right field part of the stadium. The stadium offers multiple Cultural Nights throughout the season, with the food specialties of the featured culture at pop-up stands throughout the park. The Tigers offer several value meal deals at Comerica Park. The Hot Dog Value meal contains a hot dog, chips, and a soda for $9.42; a Pizza Value Meal of a Little Caesars Super Slice and a 16-ounce soda for $12.50; and a Value Beer Deal of a 12-ounce beer in a can for $5. On 313 Tuesdays, hot dogs, water, soda, and chips are all priced at $3. Stands can be found in the Big Cat Food Court along the first base side of the ballpark as well as along the concourses. There is a sit-down beer hall/restaurant located behind section 133, as well as the Brushfire Grill on the first base side of the ballpark. Atmosphere 4 The Tigers have done a great job of spreading the Tigers brand throughout the ballpark. A large tiger sculpture will greet you as you enter the main entrance to Comerica Park. Once inside, you will see both a tiger-themed merry-go-round, as well as a tiger-themed Ferris wheel. Tiger elites including Ty Cobb, Charlie Gehringer, Hank Greenburg, Willie Horton, Al Kaline, and Hal Newhouser are saluted with statues atop the outfield walls. Longtime broadcaster Harwell is also recognized with a statue on the concourse. Several Tigers numbers have been retired by the club, including Lou Whitaker (#1), Charlie Gehringer (#2), Alan Trammell (#3), Hank Greenberg (#5), Al Kaline (#6), Jim Leyland (#10), Hal Newhouser (#16), and Jack Morris (#47). Jackie Robinson’s 42 has also been retired throughout MLB and is included on this list. These numbers all appear on the outfield walls. The main concourse offers displays on the history of the team and its ballparks over the decades along the concourse walls. Neighborhood 5 Comerica Park is located in District Detroit, an area filled with restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and sports facilities in Downtown Detroit. It is next door to Ford Field, the home of the Detroit Lions of the NFL. Among the more popular sites to visit before or after a Tigers game are the Fox Theatre, the Fillmore Detroit concert venue, Union Assembly, Renaissance Center, and the Little Caesars Arena, the home of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons. Restaurants close to the ballpark include the Elwood Bar and Grill, the Firebird Tavern, and HopCat. Oddly enough, the nearby Red Wing-themed Hockeytown Café is a popular pre-game dining spot. Another popular area to visit is just a few stops on the Q-Line from Comerica Park. Greektown is home to several wonderful Greek restaurants, as well as the Hollywood Casino at Greektown. Fans 4 Tiger fans are very loyal to the team, despite the long drought of postseason appearances. In general, they are quite welcoming to visiting fans. They are proud of their city and how it has rebounded since the 1970’s and can often be relied on for good recommendations on area restaurants, nightlife, and tourist attractions to see. Fans can visit the main team store (section 119) along the first base side of the concourse, as well as several smaller outlets scattered throughout the stadium. It is easy to keep up with the score/stats at Comerica Park, as there is a huge scoreboard/videoboard measuring 67 feet high by 185 feet wide in dead center field, as well as the ribbon boards on the facing of the upper decks. Access 4 It is very easy for Tiger fans and visitors to access Comerica Park by a variety of means. It is near both I-75 and I-375, as well as several state highways. The most popular exit to reach the ballpark is the Grand River exit. It is also served by stations of both the Detroit People Mover (Broadway Station) and the Q-line (Grand Circus Park). These rail stations operate free of charge as they circulate through the downtown Detroit area. The FAST high-frequency bus service delivers fans to Comerica Park from the Detroit suburbs. Info on schedules and pickup points are available at www.ridesmart-fast.org There are six parking areas adjacent to the ballpark. Fans can reserve a parking space before arriving at Comerica Park by going to the SpotHero app. There are four main gates into the ballpark, marked by four 80-foot-tall baseball bats. Gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Once inside the park, the concourses are 40 feet wide, easily accommodating the fans as they travel to their seats. Gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Return on Investment 3 Tickets range from $60-$120 depending on the opponent. Parking ranges from $10-$20 in one of the parking decks surrounding Comerica Park. In general, the concession prices are comparable to other MLB ballparks. The ballpark operates as a cashless venue. There are reverse ATMs in the ballpark where you can convert your cash to a charge card. Despite the ballpark’s proximity to the Canadian border, these machines do not accept Canadian currency. A transaction fee is added to any purchases using a Canada-based credit card. Extras 3 Comerica Park offers two rides that are more commonly found in an amusement park than in a major league ballpark. The HiChew Carousel is a tiger-themed carousel that operates near the main gate at Comerica Park. Rides are available at a cost of $2 per person. The Fly Ball Ferris Wheel is in the third base area of the park. It offers rides inside baseball-shaped cars for $2 per ride. The Tigers have made two World Series appearances (2006, 2012) since moving into Comerica Park. They lost both years. Hopefully, the Tigers will hit a home run at the game you attend. When that happens, the two Tigers atop the center field scoreboards’ eyes will light up, and they will roar. Final Thoughts Despite the recent lack of playoff appearances, Detroit is a great baseball town. The team boasts more than 15 members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, and one of the longest tenures in major league baseball. Comerica Park does a great job of saluting that baseball heritage, while providing a memorable experience for today’s fans with its mix of tiger-related imagery and traditional big-city sports.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Riverview Health Arena 14157 CJ Way Noblesville, IN 46060 Noblesville Boom website Riverview Health Arena website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 3,400 Noblesville Boom Explodes onto the Scene Riverview Health Arena houses the NBA G League Noblesville Boom, offering modern design, amenities, and an intimate setting that brings fans close to the action. ​Opened in November 2025, the city-owned Arena serves as the focal point of Innovation Mile, envisioned as a year-round destination blending economic, cultural, and entertainment activities to create a vibrant district. ​More than just a new venue, it’s a statement—an energetic showcase of what a next-generation minor league arena can be. From the moment you walk through its glass-lined entrance, the Arena promises an experience that’s equal parts excitement, community, and big-league ambition. Food & Beverage 4 There are plenty of high-end options on the main concourse that include grab-and-go options, small kiosks, and traditional concession stands. Fans will enjoy everything from a hot dog, cold beer, chicken sandwiches, and barbecue nachos. The two full-time concession stands are on the northeast and northwest sides of the upper concourse: Hometown Eats and the Deer Creek Cafe. ​ Fans can enjoy cheese and pepperoni pizza, along with an Italian melt sandwich that is made exclusively for the venue. There are also double smashed burgers and chicken tenders that include a side of fries. Other menu options include barbecue nachos and sandwiches featuring pulled chicken or pork. Prices range from $11.99 to $14.99. ​ The traditional items include hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, soda, and alcoholic beverages. A Chick-fil-A kiosk sells sandwiches and waffle chips, and sweet treats include cotton candy, caramel apples, and the Harvest pretzel with chocolate, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbles. These prices range from $3.99 to $12.99. ​ Fans can purchase 20-ounce cans of macro and micro beers at the grab-and-go area. The options include Miller Lite, Coors Light, Bud, Michelob Ultra, and local Sun King Pale Ale. White Claw, Angry Orchard, High Noon, and Sun Cruiser canned cocktails are available. ​ Atmosphere 4 ​The arena offers seating for 3,400 people and is among the smaller venues in the G League. However, in an area where it competes with the NBA, college, and high school basketball, it might be the ideal size. The facility offers perfect views from all of its seats, easy access around the concourse, and a friendly staff to assist with any questions. ​ The main entrance and lobby are among its best features. The glass lobby welcomes fans inside an area where two escalators bring them up to the seating bowl. Large LED screens flank the area, with images of the team logo and the starting lineup, making it the true home of the Boom. ​ There is not a bad seat in the house, and many levels of the concourse are wide enough to move traffic along and get a vantage point of the court. The seats are soft and cushioned, a giant video board keeps stats and displays information throughout the game, and fans can enjoy a look at future Pacers players. ​ The game day staff throws out T-shirts throughout the game, bangs a giant drum before the game, and Bobby the Bobcat, the official team mascot, gets the crowd going, waving a giant Boom flag. He also makes his way around the court, giving high-fives and taking photos with fans of all ages. Neighborhood 4 The Innovation Mile District is a rapidly developing corridor on the southeast side of Noblesville, designed as a modern hub for sports, technology, entertainment, and community growth. Anchored along a one-mile stretch of East 141st Street, the district blends sleek, future-focused architecture with the welcoming, small-town character that the town is known for in the area. ​ However, less than a mile away is the Hamilton Town Center. The outdoor mall features a collection of familiar shops, along with a selection of eateries that include Chuy’s, which specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine, and Ford’s Garage for burgers, wings, and pub food. There is also Houlihans, Livery, and Stone Creek Dining Company. ​ About five miles south on I-69 is the Fishers Event Center, which is home to the Indy Fuel ECHL team, the Indy Ignite Major League Volleyball team, and the Fishers Freight Indoor Football League. The seasons crisscross one another, making it an option for a sports weekend in the Northeast Suburbs of Indianapolis. ​ Fans 3 The team has played only a handful of games in Noblesville, but it is safe to say that the local populace will embrace the Boom. Opening night was a sell-out, and games have been well attended since. The G-League team provides the opportunity for Pacers fans to see future players in the small court and another entertainment option away from downtown. Access 3 The arena is designed with the main entrance at ground level and the main concourse on the upper level. Escalators and elevators take patrons to the seating bowls, and a majority of the aisles are big enough for easy access to concession areas and individual seats. ​ There is a parking deck next to the arena, along with an unpaved parking lot to the south of the building. There has been some congestion with traffic before and after the game, but that could just be first-night jitters. The traffic flow will improve over time. Return on Investment 3 The average price per ticket on the website TickPick is between $23-$29, depending on the night. A few games can be below $20, but it will depend on the time of purchase. The cost to park at the game is $7, but if you purchase in advance on the ParkWhiz website, it is a dollar less. ​ Food prices are similar to other venues of its caliber, especially down the street at the Fishers Event Center. A double smash burger and fries is $13.99, while a can of macro beer is $8.99. A hot dog is $6.49. It is a cashless venue. Extras 2 The main entrance and lobby are quite elegant and feature plenty of LED visuals and lighting. The team colors are the same as the Pacers, blue and gold, but also teal. The third color provides a nice little pop to the arena. Final Thoughts The Riverview Health Arena is the perfect size for an NBA G League franchise and offers a different experience to other venues in the league. The proximity to the parent Pacers club will make the Boom a fan favorite for years to come. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

One last gasp of the baseball season brings the guys to the south and Music City. Is Nashville truly an elite Minor League Baseball city? Do they have what it takes to step up to the majors? Grab a beer and join Dave and Paul for the latest episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views and their discussion of the Nashville Sounds experience. ⚾🏟️ __________________________________________________________________________________ You can find Stadium Journey's review of First Horizon Park and the Nashville Sounds game day experience here.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 UI Ice Arena 406 E. Armory Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens website Fred P. Rullo Stadium website Year Opened: 1931 Capacity: 1,500 Illini Hockey at a Historic Ice Arena The University of Illinois Ice Arena opened in November 1931 as a community ice rink for public skating. The Chicago architecture firm Holabird & Root, which also designed the university’s Gies Memorial Stadium, built the ice venue. It cost $336,000 and was paid for by profits from the football program. ​ Intramural hockey arrived on campus in 1935, and by 1937 varsity hockey was added to the university’s schedule. After three seasons in which the team won only three games, its fortunes turned around in 1940, when it won three consecutive Western Intercollegiate Championships. However, during World War II, the program was discontinued in 1943, and the building was converted into a mess hall for men in the U.S. Army special training program. ​ After a year as a distribution center for Time, Inc., the building opened for public skating in 1945, but hockey didn't return until 1955, this time as a club sport. Discussions about moving the hockey program to Division I have stalled, and the team continues to play in the nearly century-old building. ​ The Fighting Illini hockey team operates an independent schedule after several years in the American College Hockey Association and one year in Midwest College Hockey. The move reduced travel costs and brought teams closer to the Champaign campus. The club captured two ACHA championships in 2005 and 2008 and has made four ACHA Final Four appearances. ​ Food & Beverage 3 The concession stands offer hot food and beverages, including popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, cheese and pizza sticks, and nachos. Fans can also enjoy a slice of Jets pizza and combo meals that include a hot dog, bag of chips, and a fountain drink. The price for single items is between $2.50 and $4, while combos are between $5.50 and $11. ​ Atmosphere 3 Fans enter through a modern main lobby off of Armory Street. The Illini Ice Girls welcome fans and handle tickets by stamping the hands of each guest. The interior of the ice rink features a brick facade and several banners hanging on the wall. ​ The ice rink seats 1,500 people with 5 rows of bleacher seats above the playing surface. There are standing-room-only sections on the ice level and a main lobby with restrooms and a concession stand. A few tables and stools are set up at the corners against the glass boards. ​ Neighborhood 5 ​The University of Illinois Ice Arena is within walking distance of downtown Champaign. There are many well-known establishments downtown along Green Street that have supported the Illini fanbase for decades. ​ Joe’s Brewery is a beloved spot with affordable prices, live bands, and a DJ. Joe’s also has a beer garden. Legends is a sports bar with its own outdoor beer garden. Murphy’s Pub is an Irish-themed restaurant with 25 beers on tap. Papa Del's Pizza serves deep dish, super stuff, and thin-crust pizza with frozen options to take home. KAMS and Red Lion are popular student spots on the weekend. The Illini basketball team plays next door to the football stadium at the State Farm Center, the volleyball team calls Huff Hall home, and the football team plays at Gies Memorial Stadium. Fans 3 Games are well supported throughout the season, even though the game we attended was somewhat light. Still, a dedicated group of fans wore team colors, and a few banged a cowbell. Access 4 The building is small and features a lobby and the rink with two sides of seating. The main seating area is accessible by four narrow staircases. Parking for the game is tricky due to neighborhood permit parking restrictions. There is metered parking a couple of blocks from the building at 75 cents an hour. Return on Investment 3 Adult tickets can be purchased online and scanned at the arena for $12, and kids' tickets are $5. Concession prices range between $2.50 and $4.00, while combo prices are between $5.50 and $11. There are a few merchandise items on sale at the game. Extras 2 The Illini Ice Girls earn a point for their hospitality and performances on ice during intermission. The building earns a second point for affordable concession items. Final Thoughts College hockey venues in the Midwest are hard to find south of Michigan, and the Fighting Illini hockey club does a nice job of providing fans with an affordable night of hockey on the campus of the University of Illinois. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Franklin Field 235 S 33rd St Philadelphia, PA 19104 Penn Quakers football website Franklin Field website Year Opened: 1895 Capacity: 52,593 College Football’s Oldest Active Stadium Opened in 1895, Franklin Field in Philadelphia, PA is recognized as the oldest still-active stadium in all of college football. The facility originally had wooden stands, which were rebuilt with concrete in 1922, with the upper deck added in 1925. This 130-plus-year-old stadium even served as the home field of the Philadelphia Eagles back in the 1950s and 60s, in the days before the team changed their logo to the modern version used today. While its 52,593-seat capacity is no longer filled with fans like it used to be, this venerable stadium is still proud to be the home of the UPenn Quakers. The Quakers began playing football in 1876 and hold the record for most college football games played by any team in any division (over 1,400); the team also holds the record for most games played at a single stadium, with over 850 played at Franklin Field. Food & Beverage 2 There are several concession options at Franklin Field, but the prices are pretty steep compared to some other stadiums you may have been to. The home side features options such as pizza and hot dogs, while the visiting side offers cheesesteak, a Philadelphia staple. Snacks include packaged candy and pretzel braids (with or without cheese sauce). Food prices range from $5.49 for candy all the way up to $13.79 for cheesesteak. For drinks, Franklin Field offers a selection of bottled water, Powerade, bottled soda, and premium or domestic beer, and the prices here are even higher. Bottled water clocks in at a steep $5.49, while bottled Pepsi products cost a whopping $7 plus. Beer runs $14 to $16. Atmosphere 2 Franklin Field is a decent stadium with an imposing look and feel as you walk up. However, the lack of fans in attendance can make this huge stadium look practically empty. Given its age, it lacks some of the modern amenities you may be used to, though it does feature a modern video scoreboard. I did not see a mascot during my most recent visit, although they do have one, and the UPenn band is very small. Neighborhood 5 Philadelphia is a great city to visit, with lots of tourist attractions and plenty of restaurants and hotels. UPenn’s campus is located on the other side of the Schuylkill River from the city center, where you will find all the classic tourist spots such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. You will find restaurants serving cheesesteak sandwiches on almost every corner, so you can join the great debate between Cooper Sharp and Cheez Whiz. I recommend Cleavers, but locals will flock to any neighborhood pizzeria, corner store, or deli counter to buy their beloved sandwiches. The reason cheesesteak is such a big deal in Philly is not actually because of the steak, but due to the bread – local bakers in the city have perfected hearth baking techniques that produce a crusty exterior with a soft interior, perfect for soaking up the juiciness of the meat and cheese without making the whole sandwich a soggy mess. Fans 3 Ivy League fans tend to be all in; even a tiny crowd will feel like a lot more due to how loud and intense the fans are. There appear to be are more alums at UPenn football games than there are students, but the alums are still proud of their team and willing to yell at the top of their lungs. The reason the score in this section is not higher is because even a few thousand fans in a venue the size of Franklin Field are swallowed up by its enormity, and also because so many of the UPenn fans who did show up left early. Even during my most recent visit, many left during a game that came down to a missed field goal as the clock expired. Access 4 Parking will be very difficult, but in big cities like this, many residents don’t even have cars. Instead, they use mass transit systems to get around, such as the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), a comprehensive mashup of subways, trolleys, trains, and over 100 bus routes. The trains and subways tend to be faster than the buses, which can easily get stuck in traffic, and you can also use Uber or Lyft. There is also an international airport right here in Philadelphia, and if you are willing to take the train from there, you can pay $6 to $8 to go 4 stops to Penn Medicine Station, which is only about a 4-minute walk from Franklin Field. Once you get into the stadium, it is easy to move around – the concourse will allow you to walk all the way around the facility. There are plenty of bathrooms to accommodate the size of the crowd, and at a typical game, you won’t see any lines at the concessions due to how small the crowd size is. Return on Investment 2 Tickets to Franklin Field start at $15, or you can pay a little more to sit in the few rows of red and blue chairback seats on the south side of the field. Almost all the seats in the stadium are metal bleachers without backs, but you can sit in the chairbacks if you want to; they are located right next to the band. If you are in the area, it is worth a trip to Franklin Field for its history if nothing else, but if you are looking for a lot of energy, passion, and pageantry from your football experience, you likely will not find that here. Extras 2 If you are interested in seeing a history of Pennsylvania athletics, take a stroll over to The Palestra, UPenn’s legendary facility. With no pillars or arches inside, every seat in this venue has a perfect view of the court, and its unique vaulted roof makes it one of the loudest arenas in all sports due to the echo chamber created by its barrel-shaped ceiling. A wrap-around hallway acts as the concourse and is filled to the brim with photos, plaques, murals, and trophies galore. The Palestra has also hosted more total basketball games, teams, and NCAA tournament games than any other arena. Final Thoughts Franklin Field in Philadelphia, PA is a classic football stadium that is steeped in history. While the experience won’t be over the top like at some of the bigger FCS programs, it is still a facility that is worth a look if you are in the area – it stands as a testament to how far college football in the United States has come.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Historic Raabe Stadium 1401 N Swan Blvd Wauwatosa, WI 53226 Wisconsin Lutheran Warriors website Historic Raabe Stadium website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 1,700 Warriors in Wauwatosa Wisconsin Lutheran College plays its home football games at Historic Raabe Stadium in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The school began playing football in the year 2000, and currently competes in the NCAA’s Division III Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC). The facility opened in 2004, and holds about 1,700 fans in stands on opposite sides of the field – wooden bleachers without chairbacks on the visitor’s side, and metal bleachers without chairbacks on the home side. During the Homecoming game in 2026, the field itself was named after Coach Dennis Miller, who built the football program here from scratch. Miller was hired in 1998, and spent the next two years recruiting players and mapping out the Warriors’ inaugural schedules. He was also instrumental in securing funding to build Raabe Stadium. Food & Beverage 4 Raabe Stadium has surprisingly comprehensive concessions for such a small stadium. There are two food trucks on the visitor’s side, offering Mexican and Mediterranean options such as street tacos, horchata, spanakopita, gyros, and honey puffs. There is also a tent selling packaged candy on that side, as well as a small table selling bottled Pepsi products, although these last two options may close early if there aren’t enough customers. Underneath the home stands fans will find more traditional concession options, such as slices of pizza, Chick-fil-A sandwiches, and hot dogs, as well as bottled Pepsi products. The prices here are middle of the road, with drinks selling for $3.50, pizza and hot dogs for $4, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches for $7. Atmosphere 3 There aren’t many amenities at Raabe Stadium beyond the game itself, and the fans here don’t necessarily seem that engaged (more on this later). There are a bunch of activities for kids though, including a bouncy house, a connect 4-type basketball game, and lots of giveaways such as cowbells and mini footballs. While there is no mascot that I saw, and only a small drumline instead of a full band, the staff here puts on a massive fireworks show after the game. It is worth staying after the game for, and goes on for a really long time – there were several points where they shot off a bunch of fireworks at the same time, making us think it was the grand finale, only to keep the show going for several more minutes. This fireworks show was absolutely the highlight of the evening. Neighborhood 3 Wauwatosa, Wisconsin is a small town located a few miles west of Milwaukee, and boasts several local parks, mixed in with corporate research complexes that are the draw here in terms of employment. The most popular pre- or post-game hangout may be Ferch’s Crafthouse Grille, famous for its German pretzels, burgers, and selection of over 500 global beers, only a 3-minute drive from Raabe Stadium. Or, if sandwiches and coffee are more your scene, Ally’s Powerhouse Cafe inside a massive former industrial building offers lattes, paninis, and salads, as well as an all-day brunch feature on Saturdays. If you plan to be in town for the weekend or overnight, there are several chain hotels near Raabe Stadium, and if you are interested in driving over to Milwaukee, you can also take in the sights or water activities on Lake Michigan. Fans 2 The fans at Wisconsin Lutheran football games are very polite, but perhaps almost too polite. They seem perfectly content to just enjoy whatever is happening on the field, and don’t seem too bothered if the game doesn’t go their way. The atmosphere here is much more that of a family-friendly activity than a competitive sports contest, so you won’t hear any yelling at the refs, and not much booing or cheering. There may be an alumni event going on behind one end zone, complete with tents, picnic tables, and food being served, so you might see kids running around on the turf, just enjoying themselves. You also might see some of the fans leave early, especially during night games when perhaps they need to get the kids home and into bed. Access 3 Getting to Raabe Stadium is very easy; the facility is close enough to Milwaukee that there are major highways bringing you in from the east, west, or north. I-41 is the closest freeway to the facility, taking you right past the venue if you look out the window at the right moment. The only possibly confusing part is that the stadium is 2-3 miles from Wisconsin Lutheran’s main campus, located inside the school’s athletic village complex, so make sure you put the actual football field into your GPS, instead of the college’s main address. Once you get to the field itself, there is free parking right in front of the facility, although it is best to get there early so you can park closer to the stadium. Unfortunately the visitor stands are right next to the main entrance, so most fans will have to walk around the track to get to their seats on the home side. As mentioned above, the food trucks are on one side of Raabe Stadium while the main concessions are on the other, meaning you might have to walk between them during the game to get what you want. The stadium is very small, however, so this is easily doable. Note that on the visitor’s side the men’s bathrooms are on the far side, while the women’s bathrooms are closer to the food trucks, so the guys will have to either walk across the track or through the stands when they need a pit stop. Return on Investment 3 The cost to attend a football game at Raabe Stadium is $7 for adults and $5 for kids, and there are no tickets or hand stamps – just pay and walk in. Parking is also free, and concessions are reasonable. That said, I am not sure I would recommend seeing a game here unless your team of choice is involved in the matchup. The fireworks are great, but unfortunately the atmosphere is a trifle ho hum, with not too much passion from the fans and not much in the way of amenities except a few contests during breaks in the action. Extras 2 There is a decent tailgating setup in the parking area next to the facility; note that the closer parking lot does not allow tailgating, so if you want to tailgate you will have to park a little further away. But the two parking lots are so close together I doubt you will even notice the few extra steps you have to take. Final Thoughts If you are in the area and are looking for a family-friendly activity, a football game at Wisconsin Lutheran is a great choice. You may not find the excitement and over-the-top football atmosphere you may have seen elsewhere, but you will have a pleasant day with no hassles, in a quaint stadium that is easy to move around.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Musselman Stadium 300 N. Washington St. Gettysburg, PA 17325 Gettysburg Bullets website Musselman Stadium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 6,176 Gettysburg’s Football Address Gettysburg College is a private, four-year liberal arts college founded in 1832. From its founding until 1921 it was known as Pennsylvania College. Author Jerry Spinelli, Carson Kressley from Bravo TV’s “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” and former Congressman and presidential candidate Ron Paul are graduates of the college. The area is more known for the July 1st through 3rd, 1863 military engagements, as well as Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. The area is very busy nearly all times of the year as tourists flock to the battlefields, as well as the commercial endeavors that surround the area. Sports teams at the college are known as the Bullets, and there are 24 NCAA Division III men’s and women’s teams. The Gettysburg College women’s lacrosse team won the Division III National Championship in 2011. The Bullets play in the Centennial Conference. The 1964 football team won the University Division of the Middle Atlantic Conference championship with a 7–2 record for the first and only time in school history. The 1966 football team also played in the MAC University Division and captured the coveted Lambert Cup, emblematic of northeastern collegiate supremacy, again for the first and only time in school history. Both teams have been inducted into the Gettysburg College Hall of Athletic Honor as Teams of Distinction. Their stadium, Shirk Field at Musselman Stadium, is also home to the school’s field hockey, lacrosse, and men’s and women’s outdoor track & field. It was dedicated in September 1965 with a ceremony attended by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Food & Beverage 2 There is no permanent food stand at Shirk Field at Musselman Stadium. That is a bit shocking because of the relatively large-sized facility. There is a temporary stand at the north end selling cheap food and drinks, and it is usually manned by another of the college’s sports teams. Atmosphere 3 The stadium is quite large. That can make the atmosphere seem a bit more subdued than needed, except when a large crowd is in attendance. The field is also surrounded by a track, which means fans will be a bit further from the action. There are two grandstands. The west stands are permanent. They are pretty simple concrete stands, with simple metal bleachers attached to them. Neighborhood 5 Gettysburg is a great small town. There is almost always traffic in the town as tourists flock to the area all year. In the summer months, it can be almost unbearable to drive through the area, so make note of that. Because so many people travel in the area, expect to see numerous food options. But not all of them are good, so make sure to check reviews so that you do not waste time in tourist traps. My favorite restaurant choice is The Garryowen Irish Pub. A couple of home-style options are Hoss’s Steaks and the Lincoln Diner. You can’t go wrong with their simple but tasty offerings There is also a very good outlet mall right outside of town called The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg. With no taxes on clothing in Pennsylvania, it is a popular attraction on its own. Fans 3 The football program is not always the best lately, but the fans still turn out fairly heavily for home games. The fans are decent and seem to be involved in the game action. Access 3 Gettysburg is close to many things. Washington, DC, is 75 miles away, and Baltimore is 55 miles away. The main east-west road through Gettysburg is U.S. Route 30, and U.S. Route 15 runs south towards Frederick, MD, and Washington, DC, as well as north to Harrisburg, PA. The only real problem is the traffic in the area. The college is located in a small neighborhood north of downtown, and it won’t be very hard to get to the college, but expect to venture on many small roads to get there. Parking is usually pretty OK, but the larger the event, the more likely it is that parking will be at a premium. You can always park downtown and walk to campus. Return on Investment 5 Football games are generally free, although they could charge for some larger games. Parking is also free unless you have to park downtown. Either way, the value and return on investment are very good here at Gettysburg College. Extras 5 There is a nice veterans’ memorial just outside of Musselman Stadium. Stop in and think of those who gave all to this nation before seeing a game here. It will be well worth the visit. The architecture of the college is worth noting. Make sure to wander around and see the marvelous buildings on campus. The John F. Jaeger Center for Athletics, Recreation, and Fitness is a pretty spectacular architectural building with its unique glass tower. There is a nice hall of fame and historical exhibits of the Gettysburg College athletic program located here. The Gettysburg Battlefield and all that surrounds it are worth a couple of stars themselves. Yes, it is a tourist attraction, but one must stop in and see it. There is a multitude of historical markings, statues, and attractions in the area. Besides being on hand at this stadium’s opening, Dwight D. Eisenhower is a popular name on the campus and in the region. He retired to his working farm adjacent to the local battlefield. The Eisenhower Institute is also a part of the college and develops and sponsors civic discourse on significant issues of domestic and international public policy. Final Thoughts Shirk Field at Musselman Stadium is quite a nice facility. It is much larger than one would expect from a Division III program, but it is a great place to see high-quality sports teams.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Bob Carpenter Center 631 S College Ave Newark, DE 19716 Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens website Bob Carpenter Center website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 5,000 Volleyball At the Bob The University of Delaware (UD) is the largest in Delaware. It has 18,500 undergraduate students and has public funding, although it is not wholly a state-run institution. It was created as a Presbyterian free school back in 1743. U.S. News & World Report ranked UD's undergraduate program highly among "national universities" as well as among public universities in its yearly rankings. The university’s College of Engineering is highly ranked nationally, as is the College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment and Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. The Bob Carpenter Center opened in 1992 to house the University of Delaware basketball teams. In 2010, a new entrance and other renovations spruced some of the place up a bit. The “Bob,” as it is commonly known, is also a frequent venue for concerts and other events. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand open for volleyball games. Candy, popcorn, and hot dogs are about all you will get for food, while there is a decent selection of alcohol choices, although way overpriced, unlike the better-priced food offerings. Atmosphere 3 The concourse is at the top of the arena, looking down towards the playing surface. There are four seating sections around the court, although only one is used for volleyball, two if you count the barely used student stand. There are cheerleaders and the mascot, YouDee, who may be around creating fun. Neighborhood 4 Newark (pronounced here as New-Ark) is a great college town. Numerous food options on East Main Street will fill you up before or after a game. Parking on East Main Street is always a bit of a problem. There are many public lots, but note that they may be behind buildings and hard to find. Many restaurants offer validation for the public lots. If you do not want to fight for parking, head the opposite way from downtown Newark and towards the gigantic Christiana Mall area. Right before getting there is Border Cafe, designated only with a large “EAT” sign. Their large and varied menu offers great Tex-Mex & Cajun options at a pretty low price. Try the catfish fajitas with a side of jambalaya. Numerous dining and lodging options are prevalent around the Christiana Mall area, although if in search of lodging, one should look at the Embassy Suites located across from the baseball stadium. Around the corner from the arena, behind Rust Arena, is the campus-run UDairy Creamery. Stopping for a pre or post-game ice cream cone is a must. Fans 3 The fan attendance can be pretty lacking. Generally, games are filled to less than an eighth of the arena's capacity. We also noted the lack of students. The arena is far from the various student housing complexes around campus, so it may be expected. Access 4 The University of Delaware is easy to reach and is only a couple of miles off of Interstate 95. You may have to pay some tolls, although locals will know how to avoid them as much as possible. Parking is free and plentiful in front of the Bob Carpenter Center. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are $12 and seem like a fair price for such a venue and level of sport. . Extras 3 The lower lobby is worthy of a couple of extra stars in its own right, as it is practically a miniature museum dedicated to the Blue Hens. The nearby UDairy Creamery is always an extra when stopping by this section of the UD campus. Final Thoughts The Bob Carpenter Center is a nice facility, and although it is now 30 years old, the University of Delaware has continued to do ongoing renovations to ensure it stays up-to-date.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 W.B. Mason Stadium Blessed Basil Moreau Dr North Easton, MA 02356 Stonehill Skyhawks football website W.B. Mason Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 2,400 The Sky’s The Limit Stonehill College is a private Catholic school is located in North Easton, Massachusetts on the original estate of Frederick Lathrop Ames Jr. It was founded in 1948 by the Congregation of Holy Cross. The school offers 47 undergraduate degrees to its enrollment of just under 2,500 students. W.B Mason, a business supply company headquartered in neighboring Brockton purchased the naming rights for the facility. The company, led by CEO and Stonehill alumnus Leo Meehan, pitched in $1.5 million of the $4 million construction cost of the stadium. The playing field is dedicated in honor of Tim “Cogs” Coughlin, a class of 1980 alumnus and member of the Stonehill football team, who lost his life in the attacks on the World Trade Center. In addition to serving as home to the Skyhawks football team, W.B. Mason also serves as home to Stonehill’s field hockey, lacrosse and track and field teams. Stonehill has sponsored football teams since 1988, using the nickname “Chieftains” until 2005. Stonehill football competed in Division Three until 1996, when they moved up to Division Two, staying there until 2021. The Skyhawks joined the Football Championship Subdivision’s Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2022. Since moving to Division One, the Skyhawks have compiled a record of 14-28. Approaching W.B. Mason Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 3 W.B. Mason Stadium lacks permanent concession facilities. A tent is set up for Skyhawk football games beyond the north end of the grandstand operated by Bon Appetit Dining Services. The menu here features stadium standards, with a few rotating specialty items (i.e. cheesesteaks and bratwurst and walking tacos) thrown in to expand the menu on a given day. Coca-Cola products are featured at Stonehill athletic events. In addition, a beer garden operated by nearby Shovel Town Brewery is located just beyond the north end zone. They feature a selection of their excellent microbrews, including a new 2026 collaboration with Shovel Town, Built to Rise, a group of four craft brews which highlight a different Skyhawk team. Atmosphere 3 Fans who have been visiting Stonehill regularly since the program’s elevation to Division One in 2022 will have observed the evolution of the gameday presentation at W. B. Mason Stadium, including the development of new Stonehill traditions and the overall improvement of the gameday experience. The staff have incorporated giveaways and fan involvement into the gameday, such as having younger fans in attendance challenge Ace the mascot to a dance contest, students kick field goals for a television, and more. The music and PA announcements are slick and professional, and while this is certainly a small-school experience, it’s a fun time. There does not seem to be a dedicated student section at W.B. Mason Stadium, but there is an active tailgating scene and enthusiastic fanbase. The sound system is quite good, and as mentioned before, the music and PA announcer add a lot to the atmosphere. The cheerleading and dance squads perform throughout the game but unfortunately, they are located off to the side of the grandstand and thus are out of site for many of the fans in attendance. The school installed a brand-new scoreboard in the north end zone during the 2025 season. While it looks much nicer than the old one, it doesn't offer any new features. Ace The Mascot throws a mini-Ace into the W.B. Mason Stands. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Stonehill College’s sprawling campus keeps it hidden away from the hustle and bustle happening just beyond the campus borders. Stonehill is located on the Brockton/Easton town line, and state routes 123 and 138 intersect at the southwest corner of campus. Both roads are pretty busy commercial routes, lined with businesses, strip malls and plenty of dining and lodging options for visiting fans. Stadium Journey recommends checking out Stoneforge Grill or Brach’s Grill and Tap for your pre- or postgame meal. While you may not find many attractions in the immediate vicinity of Stonehill, Boston is located just a half hour’s drive to the north. Visiting fans will find no shortage of things to do there. Fans looking for lodging options close to campus should check out the Residence Inn by Marriott located just off Route 24. More information about local accommodations, restaurants and attractions can be found here. Fans 2 Even with W.B. Mason Stadium’s rather small capacity, the entire undergraduate enrollment could fit inside. So, it’s not surprising that there are not huge crowds at Skyhawk football games, but attendance since the program’s elevation to Division One has generally ranged between 2,000-3,000 fans per game. Crowds over the years have tended to start off big and decrease over the course of the season. There’s a decent, if not overwhelming, turnout by the student body. The majority of the fans in attendance appear to be locals, many of whom have a connection to the players down on the field. With the NEC’s compact geographic footprint, you’ll be sure to see a good number of visiting fans in the stands. An interesting characteristic of a Stonehill crowd is that they are late arriving. The parking lots around W.B. Mason Stadium are very close to the facility, so it's easy to keep the party going until the last possible minute. It’s pretty interesting to see the foot traffic increase along Blessed Basil Moreau Drive as kickoff time approaches. Game Action at W.B. Mason Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 4 Stonehill College is located in suburban Easton, MA, directly to the west of the city of Brockton and 25 miles south of Boston. The campus is easily accessible, as both Interstates 495 and 93 lead to Route 24, which runs north-south just a mile from W.B. Mason Stadium. The stadium is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to some of Stonehill’s other athletic facilities, including Lou Gorman Field and the Sally Blair Ames Athletic Complex. Fans will find ample parking in the lot in front of the McPhaidin Library located a short walk from the stadium, as well as several other parking lots scattered around campus. All of the lots are just a short walk to the stadium. The entrance to W.B. Mason Stadium is located on the southeast corner of the facility, with the grandstand on the opposite west side of the stadium. Seating consists of a single grandstand that runs the length of the field. The center sections contain individual molded plastic seats, with the rest of the seating consisting of metal bleachers without backs. This new grandstand is fully ADA compliant and easily accessible for all fans. Fans looking for an alternate viewpoint can take advantage of the standing room along the southern edge of the field. Unfortunately, the presence of a track surrounding the football field pushes the seats a bit further from the action. This is a common feature of the multi-purpose fields that are found at smaller schools. Rest rooms are located in the Sally Blair Ames Athletic Complex, with additional port-a-johns available behind the grandstand. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Skyhawks games are sold as general admission, with tickets priced at $15. Youth aged 5-17 can purchase tickets for $10. Parking is free in the lots near the stadium. There is a charge for "Premium Parking" in the Chapel of Mary lot across the street from the stadium in the McPhaidin Library lot. These passes go quickly, so purchase them in advance. With inexpensive concessions, an afternoon at a Stonehill football game is a very affordable entertainment option for southeastern Massachusetts sports fans. Stonehill College Hall of Fame. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the Stonehill Athletic Hall of Fame located adjacent to W.B. Mason Stadium in the Sally Blair Ames Field House. Final Thoughts W.B. Mason Stadium is smaller facility which fits perfectly into the fabric of tiny Stonehill College. Now that the Skyhawks are a full-fledged member of Division One, they are no longer a program in transition, but the game day experience continues to evolve. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Audi Field 100 Potomac Avenue SW Washington, DC 20024 Washington Spirit website Audi Field website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 20,000 Get Rowdy at Audi The Washington Spirit are a National Women’s Soccer League charter member, beginning play in the inaugural 2013 season. From 2013 to 2017, the Spirit played all their home games at the Maryland Soccerplex in Boyds, Maryland, but as the popularity of women’s soccer in the United States grew, they began to outgrow the 4,000-seat venue. In 2018 and 2019, the Spirit played most of their games at the Plex but played a handful in downtown Washington, D.C. at Audi Field, also home of MLS team D.C. United. For 2020, the plan was to play four games each at the SoccerPlex, Audi Field, and Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, before moving out of the Plex in 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they were unable to follow through with their plans in 2020 but split their time between Segra Field and Audi Field in 2021 and 2022. Beginning in 2023, the Spirit play all home games at Audi Field. "Rowdy Audi", as the stadium has come to be known, has been an excellent home for the Spirit, with numerous sellouts and many more near-sellouts. There has been an incredibly growth in attendance for the league as a whole, and for the Spirit in particular as well. In part due to the electric atmosphere the Spirit have created, Audi Field was selected to host the 2022 NWSL Championship and will host again in 2026. Food & Beverage 5 Audi Field has a wide range of concessions that should satisfy any fan’s palette, many of which celebrity chef Jose Andres provides. In addition to classic options such as burgers and pizza, fans can pick from more unique options such as pupusas and arepas. The stadium's concessions seem more designed for the demographics of soccer fans than football fans, but there is still plenty to enjoy. . Prices can be quite high, with one meal costing $20-$25 between the meal and a soda or water, or even more if you are planning to drink alcohol at the game. Atmosphere 5 Other than the Supporters’ Section (more on that later), every seat at Audi Field is a chairback. There are two levels plus suites, although the upper level is sometimes closed for Spirit games when they are not expecting a large crowd. There is a large video board behind the Supporters’ Section, and a much smaller board on the other end. If entering Audi Field through Gate A, this will put you directly in front of the Spirit Stage, which features pregame performances by everyone from drag queens to high school bands. If you turn left and head onto the concourse, you will find SpiritVille, featuring a kids' play area, face painting, a photo booth, and a merchandise tent. There are also picnic tables with big screen TVs for the adults to hang out at and watch the game while their kids play. The Spirit has a mascot, an eagle named Penelope Kix (PK for short, although she has been referred to mostly by her full name recently), and does a lot to promote the atmosphere during the game, ranging from on-field contests at halftime to giveaways at the gate. Before each match, the teams walk onto the field flanked by pillars of smoke, setting the stage for what is to come. As is normally the case in soccer, the real energy here comes from the fans. The Supporters' Section is located behind the north goal, and members of the various Supporters' Groups will stand, bang drums, and cheer for the full 90 minutes. Other fans get into it as well, with chants being heard throughout the game. This makes a Spirit game an electric atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 Audi Field is located in an up-and-coming part of D.C., near Buzzard Point. There is currently a lot of construction going on around the stadium, so expect it to improve even more in the future. For now, All About Burger is a popular local burger place located a few blocks from the stadium, Bonchon serves up Korean-style fried chicken nearby, and there are other options closer to Nationals Park. If taking the Metro in, you will see many of these places on Half Street on your walk from the Navy Yard-Ballpark station. Of course, you are in Washington, D.C., so there is plenty to do if you head towards the National Mall, and much of it is free. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the White House or Capitol, you will need to book that in advance. Fans 5 As noted above, the Washington Spirit has an outstanding fan base. There are four core Supporters' Groups at Spirit games, located behind the north goal. They stand for the entire game, banging drums, waving flags, and starting chants urging their team to victory. The Spirit Squadron was the original Supporters' Group, supporting the team since its inception. Rose Room Collective was created by and for people of color, while 202 Unique aims to support LGBTQ fans and their allies. Buzzard Point Social is an up-and-coming group that has entered the Supporters' scene in the past few years. Although the groups each have their own members and target audience, they join together to support the Spirit on matchday and are a major part of the experience here. The other fans help bring the energy too, joining in with the Supporters or even starting their chants. When the Spirit scores, expect the whole crowd to rise to its feet and make Audi Field extremely loud, showing why it is worthy of the nickname "Rowdy Audi". Supporter's culture is a big part of soccer, and it is great to see the Spirit getting the love they deserve. The Spirit have broken attendance records over the past few years, and routinely draw near-capacity crowds to Audi Field. The team has come a long way from the days of drawing a thousand fans a game to the SoccerPlex in Boyds and it is great to see. Access 4 When going to Audi Field, your best bet is to use public transit or a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. If taking the Metro, take the Green Line to Navy Yard-Ballpark and walk about ten minutes to the stadium. If arriving by rideshare, you can usually get dropped off right in front of the stadium unless you arrive very close to gametime, but on the way home, you will have to walk a few blocks to be picked up as the nearby streets are blocked off to allow fans to leave the stadium. Parking is very limited and can be purchased in advance through SpotHero, but the cheapest spots will cost about $25 and can be located a 15-minute walk from the stadium. To get closer will cost you two to three times that, if not more. There is no dedicated stadium parking lot like there was at Segra or the SoccerPlex. A limited amount of metered street parking is available but arrive early if you want to park close. Getting out of the lots after the game can also be difficult, although police try to direct traffic and make things easier. Restrooms are located throughout the concourse and are of a more than sufficient size for the crowds. Closed caption boards show PA announcements, but do not show Supporters' chants like at some other soccer stadiums. These are a major part of the soccer experience, and it is disappointing that they are not accessible for all to experience. The Spirit do have an ASL performer sign the national anthem simultaneously to the vocal or instrumental performance at most games, and show them on the video board so that all fans, not just those sitting on that side of the stadium, can see them. The ASL performer is given equal recognition to the vocal performer when announced beforehand, which the Spirit didn't start doing until a year or so ago, so this is nice to see. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at around $23 for seats in high rows in the corners or behind the goals and go up to about $70 for seats near midfield or even more for suites. Just keep in mind if you buy the cheap seats that the Supporters Section is behind the north goal and that area is safe standing only, so you will be standing for the full 90 minutes. You may also have your view obstructed by waving flags at times. However, there are plenty of other seats available for a comparable price if this is not your thing. if you are a fan of the other team, you should aovid buying seats in the Supporters Section, but will be fine sitting anywhere else in the stadium. Many games have additional discounts available, such as a $38 deal for two tickets, two hot dogs, two bags of chips, and two glasses of water, or a ticket and a beer for $15. Check the promotions page on the Spirit website for more details. For all home games, further discounts are available to college students, tickets, and first responders Concessions can also get quite expensive, but the food is good. The club seats come with free food and beverages, but you will only be able to get these seats from the team if you buy season tickets. If you want to go this route, it can be a great deal. Otherwise, you will need to buy them at resale prices, which will result in you paying significantly more, particularly with fees. Given the matchday experience is spectacular, a Spirit game is a great value, although the Ticketmaster fees are frustrating. Extras 4 Look for the painted sculptures outside the stadium of a cherry blossom and a soccer ball. The Spirit Stage and SpiritVille are each worthy of an extra star here for being places for fans to hang out before the game. A fourth and final star for the many places in the stadium selling Spirit merchandise. If you are concerned your favorite option will be sold out, you can buy online in advance and pick up in the stadium on matchday to avoid shipping fees. Final Thoughts A Washington Spirit game at Audi Field shows why the stadium has earned the nickname Rowdy Audi. Fans are turning out to watch them in record numbers, and there is an excitement surrounding this team that has never been seen before. Since the Spirit moved into Audi Field full-time, the atmosphere there has been electric. The fan support is phenomenal, the product on and off the field is incredible, and a Washington Spirit game is a great way for the whole family to spend an afternoon or evening.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 CAA Arena 265 Cannifton Rd Belleville, ON K8N 4V8 Belleville Senators website CIBC Arena website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 4,400 From Bulls to Sens Editor's Note: On October 2, 2026, the Belleville Senators announced a new multi-year naming rights deal with CIBC, officially renaming the facility CIBC Place. The best word to describe the city of Belleville, Ontario in 2015 was shocked. From 1981 to 2015 the residents supported the Belleville Bulls of the Ontario Hockey League. Always a bit of an underdog situation with a modest population of just over 50,000, it never seemed that the Bulls were in too much danger. However, it was the changing landscape of the American Hockey League that would really make huge changes in Belleville. The affiliate for the Montreal Canadiens had been in Hamilton, Ontario for a number of years. However, the Canadiens had intentions of bringing their affiliate back to Quebec, in a brand new building to be built in Laval. The long-term survival of the Hamilton franchise was in doubt without the draw of the Canadiens affiliation. It was at that point that Hamilton Bulldogs owner Michael Andlauer made a quick move to simultaneously sell the Bulldogs and purchase the Belleville Bulls and move them to Hamilton to become the Bulldogs of the OHL. Belleville was left without hockey. After two years, Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk would purchase the Binghamton Senators and move them to Belleville. Hockey would return in 2017. The franchise was originally christened in New Haven as the Nighthawks. In 1992 they would become the Senators, move to Prince Edward Island in 1993 and then Binghamton in 2002. Home for the Senators is the CAA Arena. Formerly known as the Yardmen Arena, it was originally built in 1978 by the Belleville Yardmen, a group of railroaders who would raise more than $3 million. It is part of the larger Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre. With the arrival of the American Hockey League, Yardmen would undergo significant renovations to the tune of over $20 million. The most significant renovations would be to increase the arena capacity and change the size of the ice rink from international dimensions to NHL dimensions. To help placate the costs of the renovations, the city owned arena would sell the naming rights to the arena in 2018 to the Canadian Automobile Association in a seven year deal. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions selection at CAA Arena is strong. Three main concession stands offer different features at each. The Sidney Slice offers pepperoni and cheese pizza slices as well as deluxe nachos, which include beef brisket. The Front Street Grill offers hot dogs, sausage, burgers, chicken burgers, chicken tenders, fries and poutine. The Cannifton Carvery offers beef brisket sandwiches, chili cheese dogs and chili served in a bread bowl. Most stands also offer arena staples like popcorn and candy. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice at the CAA Arena. Coffee, water and iced tea are also available. Coors Light, Molson Canadian, Strongbow Cider and Bacardi Breezer are available for fans who wish an alcoholic alternative. Prices are about what one would expect for concessions at minor league hockey. Atmosphere 3 CAA Arena is part of the larger Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre. The exterior of the arena itself is not overly spectacular; a dark upper portion with non-descript entrances. The better view of the building is probably from the back side, where fans must enter through Quinte. CAA Arena is not huge or intimidating from the exterior and could probably pass for an industrial building on the exterior. On the inside, the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre brings all of the pieces together. The CAA Arena as well as swimming facilities and other hockey arenas are all joined together with a bright and vibrant concourse. The upper level of the back side of the building will give fans the opportunity to meander through the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame. The local sports halls of fame are always fun to explore just to see who can be found. The highlights in Belleville are new inductee Andrew Raycroft and Bobby and Dennis Hull. The arrival of the AHL and Senators in Belleville has brought an updated colour scheme to the CAA Arena. Bright red, white and black entrances into the arena are new and welcoming, even proclaiming to welcome fans home. Inside, the concourses are fairly open giving a consistent view of the ice. The numerous levels featured at CAA Arena offer plenty of little corners and odd spots to view the game which are perfect for the standing room only fan. The south end of the arena offers bar seating and a social area as well as club seating. Upgrades to the arena are noticeable when entering the seating bowl. Lower and upper levels still remain, but the north end of the building has been opened up and numerous seats have been added to increase capacity. Also, fans can see how the ice surface has shrunk down to an NHL size rink. Ice level is fairly wide open now and moving around at the bottom is easy. Older seating is immediately identifiable as the lighter green seats are older than the darker ones. There is nothing wrong with the older seats, but it does give fans a unique perspective on the different iterations of the arena. The brand new video board is above centre ice and at the south end of the arena hangs a simple score clock. The sound system is also new and crystal clear. Unfortunately, remnants of the old Belleville Bulls days are gone. There are no banners hanging to commemorate the old days. The only banner hanging is in the north end and signifies the inaugural 2017-2018 season in the AHL. The game day experience in Belleville is not atypical. A fairly decent selection of music is played during down moments in the game. The Senators employ an in-game host who leads the promotions. Theme nights are also part of the experience. The game that was reviewed featured Super Hero Night and Spider-Man, Iron Man and Deadpool were in attendance and ready for photo ops. Neighbourhood 3 Belleville is not a huge city, but there are a few options for pre and post game fare. CAA Arena is located in a fairly residential area, immediately east of the Moira River. There is not much within walking distance of the arena, so hopping in the car is the best idea. Some of the restaurants fans should consider include the Slapshot Bar & Grill, Quinte Restaurante, Linguine’s, Burger Revolution, Northway Family Restaurant and the Boathouse. In Belleville, the Senators are basically the only game in town. There is not much in the way of other sports in Belleville. As for other activities, heading south toward the lake early in the season will bring fans to a number of different parks. Also, fans may consider the Glanmore National Historic Site. For fans wishing to stay in the Belleville area, there are a number of options. Comfort Inn Belleville and Best Western Belleville are both options to consider. Fans 2 It’s hard to fully get a grasp on the situation in Belleville. All were shocked when the Bulls were sold and moved to Hamilton, but closer analysis sees that the Bulls were consistently near the bottom of the OHL in attendance. The upgrades to the arena have surely helped, but it is hard to say that the situation in Belleville has changed much. Truth be told, AHL hockey is much different than OHL hockey and only time will tell if Belleville truly embraces the AHL experience. In their inaugural season, the Senators averaged just over 3,600 fans per game which ranked them last in the AHL in attendance. In their second season, attendance has fallen off a bit. Although it would seem that the Senators affiliation with Belleville would be a positive, the Senators have been pretty bad in Ottawa in recent years and the fans have been not-so-subtly revolting against owner Eugene Melnyk. It is too early to say that the Senators in Belleville are a failure, but they still have a ways to go to be proven a success. Fans in the stands are pretty reserved and quiet, but do get loud for the big play or goal. Access 4 Getting to the CAA Arena is not difficult at all. For those coming from out of town, CAA Arena is located immediately south of the Macdonald-Cartier Expressway or Highway 401. Fans will not have to travel too much through the city to get there. There is plenty of free parking at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre. For those looking for the public transit option, there is a bus stop right in front of the arena. There is also a shuttle bus which runs from the Quinte Mall. Fans are encouraged to check out the Belleville Conventional Transit website for fares, schedules and maps. Getting around the CAA Arena is not terrible, but the concourses can be on the narrow side and there are plenty of stairs to get around to the different levels of the arena. The washroom facilities are also more than adequate. Return on Investment 4 Going to a Belleville Senators game will not break the bank. Tickets for the Sens will run between $23 and $27. There is a surcharge of $2 for premium games. Parking is free and concession prices are what one would expect. The product on the ice is decent and the game day production is good as well. Extras 3 Two extra marks for the City of Belleville not giving up on hockey after the shock of losing the OHL’s Belleville Bulls. An extra mark for Belleville’s own superfan who dresses up and celebrates each goal with cymbals. He also travels the arena to different sections to share the joy. Final Thoughts The return of hockey to Belleville was absolutely necessary. What the future holds for the Senators will be interesting. The residents of Belleville need to fully embrace the Senators and AHL and get out to the arena to make the Senators at CAA Arena an even better experience. When near Belleville, it is a great plan to check out the CAA Arena and the Belleville Senators. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Wilkinson Hall 1151 E 17th St Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Wilkinson Hall website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 3,000 Never Daunted With the passage of Title IX in 1972, colleges and universities began expanding their athletic programs in the mid-1970s. At Indiana University, one of the first programs added was women’s volleyball. Women’s volleyball initially fell under the oversight of the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW); the NCAA and Big Ten began sponsoring the sport in 1981. After initially playing their matches at the hallowed Assembly Hall, the volleyball team moved to a more volleyball-specific facility in 1996. University Gymnasium, which was shared with the wrestling team, was an intimate atmosphere for volleyball, with fans right on top of the action. However, it was too small to continue accommodating a growing Division I volleyball program. In 2019, Wilkinson Hall opened, signifying a major investment and a new chapter in the history of Indiana University volleyball. Food & Beverage 3 Food options are pretty standard at most concession stands; there is not a great deal of diversity on the menu. The featured item is a pulled pork sandwich, with more traditional options consisting of hot dogs, nachos, and soft pretzels with cheese sauce. There is also a large selection of chips, candy, and other snacks. Beverages include water and soft drinks from the Coca-Cola line of beverages. There is an average selection of beer and alcoholic beverage options. Most choices center around typical macrobrews; there is also Dragonfly IPA, a selection from local brewer Upland, as well as the Indiana University-branded Hoosier Game Day Lager. High Noon and Happy Thursday seltzers are also available. Atmosphere 4 The athletic facilities at Indiana University were designed to complement each other. The high side walls at Memorial Stadium show a striking resemblance to those in Simon-Skjodt Assembly Hall. The curvature and large glass panel windows of Wilkinson Hall are nicely complemented by Gladstein Fieldhouse, which sits directly behind it, and Cook Hall, the practice facility for the men’s and women’s basketball programs, directly next door. Inside the playing area of Wilkinson Hall, each corner of the arena has either a video board or a scoreboard. The video boards display team and match statistics, while the scoreboards display game and match scores, along with individual player dig and kill totals. The playing area is surrounded by seating. Plastic bleachers run the length of the sidelines, with the first five rows having individual seat backs and the remaining rows being traditional plastic bleacher seats. Each end also has bleacher seating, with students occupying the east-end stands. A single row of reserved seating runs the length of the near-side floor. The time between points and breaks in the match is kept lively with music, t-shirt tosses, and skits from Indiana’s mascot, Hoosier the Bison. Neighborhood 4 Indiana’s athletic facilities are clustered together in the northern reaches of campus. This location does remove them from the epicenter of the town’s food and nightlife on Kirkwood Avenue, which is about a mile and a half away. Over the past decade, the area just west of the campus’ northern reaches has undergone significant development, with hotels and restaurants sprouting up. Still, the focus of any visit to Bloomington is going to be Kirkwood Avenue and the area around the square. Kirkwood is home to Nick’s English Hut, a must-stop for many alumni, and Upstairs Pub, which has blossomed into one of the more popular pre-game spots. For a more upscale dining experience, Janko’s Little Zagreb steakhouse is a popular option. The Indiana Memorial Union (IMU), the largest student union building in the world, houses a handful of food kiosks, a pool hall, a bowling alley, and hotel rooms at the Biddle Hotel. If hotel rooms are unavailable at IMU, downtown Bloomington has a large inventory of higher-end chains, while locations just off I-69 offer several more budget-friendly options. One thing Bloomington does seem to lack is significant attractions that are not university-specific. There is a Dave & Buster’s near the mall, and Bloomington Square does have several shops, but it can be tricky to build a full day around events not connected to the university. Fans 3 The Big Ten reigns supreme when it comes to fandom. According to NCAA attendance records, the conference more than doubles the average attendance of its next-closest competitor, the ACC. Even though Indiana volleyball does not have the following of programs like Nebraska, Wisconsin, or Minnesota, the Hoosiers do well to hold their own when it comes to filling Wilkinson Hall. Indiana volleyball averages just under 2,000 fans per match, which is about two-thirds the capacity of Wilkinson Hall. Indiana fans do a great job showing their enthusiasm and support for the Hoosiers. The only thing keeping them from reaching the next level of fandom is consistently filling the building. The Indiana student body, collectively dubbed “Crimson Chaos,” does a good job coming out to support Hoosier volleyball and creating a real home-court advantage. A lot of credit should be given to head coach Steve Aird, who has made a point of promoting the program not just on campus but throughout the community. Credit also goes to the Indiana University Student Athletic Board, which heads up many of the activities enjoyed by students during the match. Access 4 The athletics neighborhood at Indiana University is located on the northern reaches of campus, along the State Road 46/37 bypass. This route is directly off I-69, which runs locally from Indianapolis to the north and Evansville to the south. Primary parking can be found directly in front of the volleyball arena, leaving just a short walk to the front door of Wilkinson Hall. The exterior hallways of Wilkinson Hall are rather narrow, allowing only one-way traffic at times, especially near the concessions area. Once inside the playing area, walkways run behind the courtside seating, making the bleachers easily accessible. Fans entering on the west side of the arena, though, are directed to access the far side of the seating by going up the stairs, into the stands, and back down so they do not get caught up in the match. Wheelchair and companion seating is located in the front row of the west stands, with a chairlift available to assist fans getting to this section. Matches can often coincide with parking restrictions the night before Indiana football games. Make sure to check Indiana volleyball’s social media accounts for information on any possible parking constraints. Return on Investment 4 The Big Ten is home to some of the best collegiate volleyball programs in the country. It is not uncommon for nearly a third of the teams in the Top 25 to come from this conference. With that said, ticket prices starting at $11 are a great deal. Parking is free, adding to the overall affordability of the experience. If there are attendants at points of entry, it is likely due to parking restrictions related to preparations for football or basketball games. Concessions do seem to be a touch on the high side. Extras 4 One of the age-old questions to Indiana fans is, “What is a Hoosier?” While there are differing accounts, there is actually no right answer. New to athletic events in 2025 was the return of a mascot; "Hoosier the Bison" makes his rounds at many IU sporting events to interact with fans. While it might not answer the question of what a Hoosier actually is, it does give a fun, new face to Indiana’s athletic programs. The south-side wall of Wilkinson Hall displays NCAA Tournament appearances and All-American selections. With every ace by a Hoosier server, fans are rewarded with T-shirts tossed into the stands. Following matches the team is available for autographs, primarily for the youngest of Hoosier fans. Final Thoughts Wilkinson Hall is a modern, comfortable facility that fits nicely into Indiana’s athletic venues and provides a considerably better home for the program than the old University Gymnasium. The experience of attending a volleyball match at Indiana is more than simply the match itself; the match is the centerpiece of a college sports experience that happens to focus on volleyball. The combination of an attractive facility, an enthusiastic student presence, easy access, free parking, and affordable ticket prices makes Indiana volleyball an easy event to recommend.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.86 Kyle Field 756 Houston Street College Station, TX 77843 Texas A&M Aggies website Kyle Field website Year Opened: 1927 Capacity: 102,733 Home of the 12th Man Kyle Field, home of the Texas A&M Aggies’ football team, opened in 1905 and has a capacity of 102,733. The facility is the largest football stadium in the state of Texas and currently sits fifth largest in the FBS. A $485 million renovation from 2013 to 2015 lowered the field by about seven feet, allowing six more rows of premium seating at the bottom of the lower bowl, which pulled the stands right up to the sidelines. In addition, the field was moved 18 feet to the south, improving sightlines by centering the gridiron exactly between the seating sections. A cantilevered roof was added to increase the decibel level inside the venue, and additional premium seating was put in as well. Kyle Field is the original home of the 12th Man. Texas A&M has owned the trademark since 1990, but the tradition dates back to 1922. That year, Texas A&M played Centre College, the number 1-ranked team in the country. The Aggies suffered so many injuries during the game that Coach Bible feared he wouldn’t have enough players to finish the contest, so he called former player E. King Gill down to the sideline. Dressed in the uniform of an injured player, Gill didn’t end up having to play after all, but his willingness to serve inspired the Aggies to an upset victory. That 12th Man tradition continues today in several ways, including fans waving 12th Man towels during games, a deserving walk-on player being awarded the No. 12 jersey each year, and an average of 38,000 students standing for the entire game to symbolize their own willingness to take the field if needed. Food & Beverage 5 Kyle Field has all kinds of different food and beverage options on hand during football games here, and though the price of many items is on the high side, the university has done a great job trying to lower costs for fans. For example, a recent initiative dropped the price of core items such as hot dogs, nachos, and candy by $1 each, and a $6 popcorn option was also introduced. In addition, you can buy bottled water starting at $2 for 20 ounces. In terms of variety, the concessions here offer almost anything you can think of, ranging from Double Dave’s pizza and soft pretzels to chicken tenders and Slovacek sausage. You can also find barbecue and Tex-Mex offerings from several different local chains, and don’t forget to check out the Coors Light Beer Garden located on the east lawn; the beer garden is open to all regardless of what section you’re sitting in, and it opens four hours before kickoff. All that sounds great, but what is a football stadium without a few signature concessions? Well, Kyle Field has those too. The most impressive is undoubtedly the BTHO Dog – BTHO stands for “Beat the hell out of [this week’s opponent].” It includes not one but two footlong hot dogs covered with brisket, chile queso, pickled and fried onions, fried jalapeno chips, and pico de gallo. It costs a bit, but you won’t have to eat another thing all day. The venue also offers other big-as-Texas options, including mozzarella logs. Sure, you’ve heard of mozzarella sticks, but each of these logs is the size of a normal hot dog. They come in packs of five, and one person likely won’t be able to handle that much melty goodness. Atmosphere 5 Kyle Field’s atmosphere is second to none – you will see fans waving their 12th Man towels all game long, and there is a massive fireworks display after every Aggie score, as well as after an Aggie victory. You will also see flyovers by military planes and plenty of American flags waving in the breeze. Texas A&M has always been a patriotic school, but I don’t think I have ever been to a football stadium with this many flags on display, celebrating our nation. Adding to this wonderful atmosphere are two signature items you won’t find anywhere else on the college football landscape. The first of these is the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band with its precision military marching, and perhaps tighter formations than you will see at the United States military academies (pay attention to the corners when the band reverses direction). Most fans stay in their seats during halftime to watch the Aggies form their signature Block T, switching direction to display it proudly toward both end zones. If you get there early you can even watch the Corps of Cadets march into the stadium before the game. The second unique feature at Texas A&M football games at Kyle Field happens only twice: once just before kickoff and once at the end of the third quarter. This is the moment when over 100,000 proud Aggies put their arms around each other’s shoulders and sway side to side in unison while singing the Aggie War Hymn, an ode to defeating their hated rivals from “texas university” (also known to Aggies as teasips). First-time visitors in the press box have even been known to panic when this happens, fearing that an actual earthquake is causing the stands to move from side to side. Neighborhood 4 There are plenty of restaurants and other attractions around Kyle Field, but as you might expect with a stadium holding over 100K fans, the immediate vicinity is mostly packed with parking lots. Except for some fast-food type eateries located inside the Memorial Student Center right across the street from the football stadium, it will be about a 10-minute walk to find any other options. The Northgate district in College Station is the place to be before or after an Aggies football game. Restaurants such as Fuego Tortilla Grill and The Sport on Northgate are great options, but the one place you must visit if you truly want to experience Aggieland is The Dixie Chicken. This legendary watering hole still claims to serve more beer per square foot than any other bar in the country, and is famous for a couple of Aggie traditions. One of the most well-known is the Aggie ring dunk, where you drop your Aggie ring into a 32-ounce pitcher of beer and must chug the whole thing before you can get the ring back. Another famous tradition is known as the Chicken Challenge, where you must stay inside the restaurant drinking beer, and maybe playing dominoes, from open until close (generally 11 am to midnight or later depending on the day of the week). If you are trying to avoid the college student scene, there are also a slew of restaurants just to the east of campus along Texas Highway 6, including Chuy’s, Chicken Express, and Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que. In terms of attractions, the best option near Kyle Field is the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, which houses the famous Union Pacific 4141 locomotive, painted in the old Air Force One white and baby blue color scheme. The museum is within sight of Kyle Field on Texas A&M’s campus, and the exhibits include a full-size Marine One helicopter, as well as a replica of the torpedo bomber President Bush flew during World War II. The Museum of the American GI, about 10 miles south of College Station, is also a wonderful place to visit; its collection includes over a dozen period tanks from World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and other conflicts. Fans 5 Texas A&M fans are second to none; the crowd is loud and seethes with energy. In addition to 38K students standing for the entire game, and the whole stadium waving their 12th Man towels in unison, especially during kickoffs and third downs, almost everyone you see will be sporting some form of Aggie gear, and sometimes from head to toe. In addition, you should expect every game to be a sellout – even for games against FCS opponents such as McNeese State, attendance at Kyle Field will top 105K, which is several thousand fans over capacity. Games against SEC rivals will draw even more. The key thing about the Aggie fanbase is its passion – there is nothing like joining 100K of your closest friends, all yelling your heads off to propel your team to victory. And at Kyle Field fans have to be engaged – it is almost a rule, because unlike at other schools where they have cheerleaders, at Texas A&M there are five Yell Leaders instead. The Yell Leaders use hand signals to tell fans what yell (Aggies don’t cheer, they only yell) will be done next, and fans in the front rows of each section must pass that hand signal to fans in the back. Each yell is then performed by everyone in the stadium at the same time. In fact, yelling in unison is so important to Aggie fans that the Yell Leaders hold Yell Practice the night before each game, even on the road, to make sure fans know what to do. And after any game when the Aggies are outscored (Aggies never lose, though they sometimes get outscored), the Yell Leaders hold an extra Yell Practice right after the game. Access 5 I was thoroughly impressed during my last visit to Kyle Field with how easy it was to get in and out of the stadium. First off, there are plenty of places to park, and there are also shuttle buses to take fans from the furthest parking lots to the field itself. The parking lots at other Texas A&M athletic facilities, such as Blue Bell Park (Aggie baseball) and Reed Arena (Aggie basketball), are also used for football, or you can park further out if you are willing to walk a little. I would not recommend riding the shuttle buses unless it is raining, as you can probably get there faster just by walking, since you wouldn’t have to wait through all the bus stops. Once you get to Kyle Field there are plenty of entrances around the facility, making it easy to get in and out, and there are also plenty of concession stands and bathrooms on every level. Be sure to pay attention to what seat you’re sitting in, so you can enter the correct gate. The most impressive part of the access was getting out after the game – the staff here does a fabulous job directing traffic in one direction, away from Kyle Field, so you can be on your way within minutes of getting into your car. This is not something I have always experienced at other football stadiums, so it was extremely welcome. Return on Investment 5 Attending a game at Kyle Field to see the Aggies is without a doubt worth every penny. Expect the game to be sold out months in advance, so the secondary ticket market will be your friend. Pro tip: wait until a few days before the game to buy your seats, as prices will tend to fall as the season goes on, based on the team’s record and what time the game ends up being held (the game time will likely not be announced until 1-2 weeks in advance). You should be able to find tickets for less than $100, perhaps even under $50 if you sit in the cheap seats. I would recommend sitting in sections such as AC or FB, which give you access to an indoor lounge in case of rain or hot weather. Also try to look for seats in the back of certain sections – while most of the seats at Kyle Field are out in the open, a few sections have covered seating in the last 5 to 10 rows. For parking, expect it to set you back at least $20 if you park further away. For example, you can park at the Bush library within sight of Kyle Field for $25 (no advance purchase required). Or for around $50 you could park someplace near Reed Arena and ride the shuttle bus to the football field if desired. Most of the parking closer to Kyle Field is owned by season ticket holders, so again the secondary ticket market is your best bet to find a parking pass. Extras 5 Other great traditions at Texas A&M include the Corps of Cadets “capturing” the Yell Leaders after an Aggie victory and carrying them across campus to toss them into the Fish Pond. There are also statues and banners galore around the stadium, showing the history and successes of Texas A&M football over the years. When the Aggies come onto the field before the game, they run through cones of fire just like at other big-time football programs. The team also sports different uniforms throughout the season, with matching paint décor on the field itself, such as for Military Appreciation Day. Final Thoughts Attending a football game at Kyle Field is one of those bucket list experiences every college football fan should have at least once in their lifetime, right up there with seeing Ralphie run around the stadium at Colorado, or seeing the Sooner Schooner at Oklahoma. You will never forget seeing the Aggies sway from side to side as they sing the Aggie War Hymn, and you will never forget the sight of all those 12th Man towels being waved furiously. The staff has done a fabulous job improving the access since the massive renovation, making it easy to get in and out and providing plenty of parking. There are also tons of different seating options, including a few that protect you from that volatile Texas weather, as well as some price cuts for some of the concessions that should make your wallet happy. Kyle Field isn’t going anywhere, but that doesn’t mean you should sit on your haunches when it comes to visiting Aggieland – there is nothing like the spirit you will find here.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Stouffville Arena 12483 Ninth Line Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario L4A 1C2 Stroufville Spirit website Stouffville Arena website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 335 Smells Like Hockey Spirit The Stouffville Spirit were founded in 1995 as the Stouffville Clippers in the OPJHL. They were sold before the completion of their first season to Ed Hakonson. The Clippers moniker was a nod back to the previous Stouffville Clippers who played at the Junior C level from 1970 to 1984. After being sold in that first season, the Clippers rebranded as the Stouffville Spirit and have been members of what is now the Junior A OJHL ever since. They have had modest success but had playoff issues until they took home the Buckland Cup as OJHL Champions in 2012. Chris Tanev is included among their alumni. The Spirit are currently owned by Chris Tambos, Zeev Werek, and Kenny Burrows. Home for the Spirit is the Stouffville Arena. Located in the former town of Stouffville, now part of the larger Whitchurch-Stouffville town, north of the City of Toronto, part of the Greater Toronto Area, Stouffville Arena offers a pair of ice pads and community rooms. Stouffville Arena is owned by the Town of Stouffville. Food & Beverage 3 A single snack bar concession is found in the lobby. Hot dogs, fries, chicken fingers, poutine, nachos, and popcorn are all available. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice, and coffee, tea, hot chocolate and Slush Puppies round out the beverages. There is nothing terribly original at the concession, but they won’t go hungry either. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of Stouffville Arena is straight out of the eighties. A corrugated, concrete exterior with a brown top accent is functional but not terribly attractive. Inside, the lobby also gives off those eighties vibes with plenty of dark, brown brick. There are some locally framed photos and displays that are definitely worth a look. A tribute to Stouffville’s “Mr. Hockey” Bob McNeil is one of the highlights. A collage dedicated to local product Keith Acton and a framed photo of hockey Olympian Gillian Apps boast about the local hockey scene. Inside the arena, the ice is south-north oriented with the seating on the east side. Seating consists of 11 rows of wooden benches with a steep incline for good sightlines. Seating goes right up to the top of the low-profile ceiling, such that fans can touch the support beams from the top row. Protective netting is found only at the ends. There is some indoor seating at the north end, which also houses a number of trophy cases with plenty of Stouffville hockey artifacts. Above the indoor seating are some markings delineating Stouffville Arena as the home of the Spirit. Championship banners hang at the north end, including the 2012 Buckland Cup. There are also banners honouring five-year players J.D. Smithson and Randy Johnston and Coach Pat Madigan, who died suddenly in 2008. The gameday production at a Spirit game is very simple. It is clear that the sound system is not the best, but the PA announcer does his best to make sure that announcements are as clear as possible by not yelling into the microphone. Typical promotion,s including the 50/50 draw, are present for games. Neighbourhood 3 Stouffville Arena is located in Stouffville, part of the town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. There are a few dining options for fans in the area. The best plan is to head south to Main Street. Some options include Clock Tower Grill, Saints on Main, The King’s Landing Bar & Grill, Captain Hooks Bar & Grill, and the Junction. The Stouffville Spirit are pretty much the only game in town. Stouffville is close to Newmarket, Markham, Pickering and Aurora, so OJHL rivalry games are not far away at all. Other tourist options fans may want to consider while in the area include Bruce’s Mill Conservation Park, Treetop Trekking and Canada’s Wonderland. Stouffville is not terribly far from Toronto, which has a whole host of tourist options. For fans interested in staying in the area, there is a Days Inn in Stouffville. Other options in other towns are not too far. Fans 4 Assessing fans in the OJHL can be difficult as there are no centrally published attendance figures and many teams do not publish game-day attendance statistics on game sheets. That being said, Stouffville normally attracts between 250 and 300 fans per game and ranks in the top third of the OJHL. The small capacity at Stouffville Arena makes a moderate attendance seem like a full house. Fans are supportive, and the location of Stouffville makes it a good stop for many travelling fans. Access 4 Stouffville Arena is located in the Stouffville community of the town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, approximately at the southeast corner of 9th Line and Millard. It is about 2 km east of Highway 48 and 12 km north of Highway 407, so a bit of a drive through town will be necessary. There is free parking on site; however, other minor sports on the local fields there may cause parking to fill up. For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, there are York Region Transit bus stops on Millard. Fans should consult the York Region Transit website for maps, fares, and schedules. Getting around inside Stouffville Arena is not too difficult. Entry into the arena from the lobby is at ice level, so getting to the seating will require some traversing of stairs. The washroom facilities are good for this venue. Return on Investment 5 Stouffville Spirit tickets are sold for $15 with discounts for students and seniors. Children under 5 years old are free. Tickets are available at the door and can be purchased with cash or card. Parking is free, and the concession prices are not too bad. The product on the ice is solid, and fans will have a good time at the game. Extras 2 An extra mark for the number 19 banner that hangs behind the Stouffville bench in honour of Mike Robinson. Robinson was a former member of the Spirit who was tragically shot on a golf course in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, in 2025. An extra mark for Stouffville Arena as a community hub, complete with a pair of ice pads, community rooms, and a number of outdoor sports fields. Final Thoughts Taking in a Stouffville Spirit game is a great way to spend a fall or winter evening. Stouffville is a decent arena for the OJHL and has a cozy feel to it in a community that loves its hockey. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Snapdragon Stadium 2101 Stadium Way San Diego, CA 92108 San Diego FC website Snapdragon Stadium website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 35,000 A Snapshot of San Diego Soccer San Diego Football Club is an expansion team in Major League Soccer, named the 30th MLS team back in 2023. They began play in 2025 and share their home venue with the San Diego State Aztecs college football team. San Diego’s aspirations to join MLS go back to the 1990s. Despite several team entries in various soccer leagues over that time, the market lacked a suitable stadium to house the franchise. Qualcomm Stadium, then home to the NFL Chargers and MLB Padres, was too big for MLS. Balboa Stadium was considered but was deemed too old and did not have appropriate facilities for top-flight soccer. All this changed when Qualcomm Stadium was demolished to make way for a new home for college football. Snapdragon Stadium, built on the very site of the old ‘Murph, was exactly the configuration and capacity a team would need to match up with peer venues in Major League Soccer. Food & Beverage 4 Snapdragon Stadium has no shortage of concession choices, with vending carts all over the concourses, which are mostly outdoors between the grandstand and structures located along the outdoor periphery of the venue. Prices are on the high side… Bottled water is $5, canned beer $15-$17.50, with Michelob and Budweiser products the mainstay; go for the local Cutwater brew at $15.50, Dos Equis Mexican beer ($15.50-$21), and frozen margaritas are $21. Pepsi products are $7, but for $9.50 you can buy a refillable fountain soda. The local staples include hamburgers ($13.50), cheeseburgers ($14.50), all-beef hot dog ($7), Fries ($6.50), Chicken Tenders ($14.50), Popcorn ($9), Soft pretzel or cotton candy ($7.50). For the sweet tooth, there is a vending cart called Batch Box with fresh-baked cookies ($12). Some examples of specialty items include a shawarma stand with pitas to order ($17-$21), Cali BBQ offering brisket or pulled pork sandwiches ($17.50-$18.50), barbecue nachos ($17). There is a cheesesteak stand ($15-$17), and that’s where you find a true California signature item, garlic fries ($10.50). Atmosphere 3 One of the coolest spectacles to watch and take part in is the parade of fans from the supporters' section, marching into the stadium singing and chanting, waving flags, and banging on their instruments. In fact, a special gate swings wide open on one end of the venue to allow access, and the parade continues right into the concourse. That being said, the energy and panorama of that end zone supporters' section is a bit muted during the match itself, adding little to the noise and buzz in the building. San Diego Mural at Snapdragon Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 At the moment, Snapdragon Stadium is pretty much surrounded by vast oceans of parking lots. That is about to change, however, as construction is already underway for a master planned housing, mixed use, and transit-oriented development called SDSU Mission Valley, which will include 621 apartments, 30,000 square feet of retail space, and a supermarket. Further plans include tech and research space tied into San Diego State’s academic programs, parks and green space, and more housing and hotels. The first phase should open in 2028. Fans 5 San Diego FC has enjoyed incredible success at the box office, selling over 18,000 season tickets, selling out premium seats, and setting attendance records for playoff games. Yes, they made the playoffs in their inaugural 2025 season, also placing 4th in attendance in the 30-team league, trailing only the three MLS franchises that play in larger NFL-capacity venues. They continue to be a massive draw in their second season of play. San Diego FC Supporter Section at Snapdragon Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Access 4 There are two ways to access Snapdragon Stadium: by car or by light rail. The MTS Green Line trolley station is just a long penalty kick away from the stadium doors. Trains run regularly, and the fare is a reasonable $3. Prices for parking range from $25 to $50, and prepaying for a parking pass is a strong recommendation, as with the construction going on around the stadium, lots fill up quickly. There are no reasonable free parking options nearby, as the stadium property is surrounded by expressways, hilly terrain, and no adjacent residential streets or commercial properties, so either way you have to pay. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices for San Diego FC matches are listed between $50 and $100, but secondary market opportunities for resale tickets can score you some better deals depending on the opponent. The pricey concessions and parking costs rapidly bring up the fan experience cost, so be prepared. Pregame Festivities at Snapdragon Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Extras 4 Worth a huge mention here is the stadium itself. Snapdragon Stadium was erected on the site of the old Jack Murphy Stadium, later renamed Qualcomm Stadium. The NFL San Diego Chargers played here. The San Diego Padres played here. Murals, photos, memorabilia, and markers depicting the great players and the great moments that happened right here can be found throughout the stadium. MLB Hall of Fame Tony Gwynn is immortalized here. All of this is a testament to San Diego sports and is done in an exceptional way. Final thoughts A sports road trip to San Diego is always an easy choice… perfect weather year-round, plenty to do and see in the region, the Mexico border and nearby Tijuana beckon for the more adventurous, and the downtown Gaslamp Quarter is a joy in itself with endless food and entertainment options and, of course, the MLB San Diego Padres. San Diego FC is a great addition to make this yet another destination of choice.

Photo by ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images I always love it when the Olympics arrive because it introduces us to many new sports and a few we don't get to see too often. My friends always ask me what is your favorite event during the Summer Olympics, and I never have to think too hard about it. My favorite Olympic event is handball. Sure, you can enjoy beach volleyball in front of the Eiffel Tower, swimmers jumping into the Seine River, or a 50-year-old man from Turkey winning silver in pistol shooting, but handball has always captured my fancy every four years when it comes to prominence among most Americans. Team handball (most fans say handball) is a sport that is not too hard to understand; it shares similarities to basketball, hockey, and soccer. It is played on a court 40 meters long and 20 meters wide. A group of 7 players, including the goalie, make up the two sides. The scoring is simple: throw a ball past the goalie and into the net, and you score a point. The team with the most points wins at the end of the game. This past January at the Men’s EHF Euros, a world-record crowd of 53,000 was on hand at Düsseldorf’s MERKUR Spiel-Arena to watch France take on Macedonia and Germany battle Switzerland. The tournament secured television agreements with over 30 broadcasters around the world. A record crowd of 53,586 showed up for a Euro '24 game in Germany, Photo Courtesy of the EHF I enjoy watching the high-scoring contests that feature body slamming, dribbling, jumping, and high-throwing action from beyond the semi-circular crease. I fell in love with the sport the first time I watched it in 1992, but now that events are easily accessible, it has become mandatory television the past week. Why hasn’t this game become more popular in the United States? "It's tough when it's a sport that's not on TV regularly and not a sport you can easily play as a kid, in high school, or college," says Minnesota Team Handball President Josh Hetterick. "You play it in some gym classes, but if there were youth and high school leagues, that would make a difference. Some colleges (Ohio State, North Carolina, West Point, Air Force, Pittsburg, and Auburn) have handball clubs, but there needs to be more for it to gain real interest. Also, if it were to be broadcast on ESPN or NBC Sports more regularly and in prime time, you'd see a jump in interest." Hetterick is hosting team tryouts for new players for the next four Wednesday nights in Bloomington, Minnesota, just south of the Twin Cities. He laughed about being able to teach anyone what they need to know about the game in preparation for the next Summer Games in Los Angeles. Just like curling in the Winter Games, the sport gets a boost from American TV audiences. In the United States, the game is minor, and the US national team struggles in international competitions. The men’s team has a 4-25-1 record in Olympic competition and hasn’t qualified since the 1996 Atlanta Games (because we hosted it). Their record in the World Championships is 2-27-0 and has one appearance since 2001. At this rate, a US pickleball team has a better chance in international competition. Perhaps our best athletes are not playing handball. I can’t blame them; where would one even go at a young age to play the game, and how many kids in the neighborhood will knock on your mom’s door asking if you want to play a game at the local park? When one does develop an interest, would they have to leave the country to develop and hone their skills at an international or professional level? “Facility accessibility and funds,” says a Chicago Inter Handball Club member via Facebook. There are no professional leagues in the United States, unlike in Europe, where the top leagues are in Spain, Germany, France, Hungary, Denmark, and Poland. However, the Northeast Team Handball League is a competition for amateur clubs in the Northeast United States. A few amateur clubs play in Chicago, Boston, New York, Milwaukee, Washington, and Philadelphia. The sport has been played here since 1926 but has never caught on like many other games. There have been discussions about creating a professional league in this country, but it might not become realistic until both U.S. squads perform at a high level in international competition. Heterick believes that much has to be done to lay the groundwork for the sport in this country. "It's all about organization, support, and a grassroots/pipeline foundation. There is a disconnect in that pipeline right now from youth to teen to adult. There are adult handball clubs in the USA, but very few of them have a youth/teen part in the club. There is just not a strong organizational structure for handball in the USA, and until we get that and get support and structure, we're going to continue this vicious cycle." Every Olympic year will spark curiosity for this unique sport for many Americans. Clubs like Chicago Inter Handball Club, Flint City (Michigan) Sporting Club, and Minnesota Team Handball will see a bump in interest and a few new members join the fray. Maybe they will be catalysts to train a future group of handball players. The Minnesota club will receive 8-9 calls per week during the Olympic Games that include both men and women. This results in the club hosting try-out events during and after the Olympics to prepare for the increased numbers, which are usually around 8-12 more players. I can concur with this. When I was still living in New Jersey, a high school friend of mine went to open tryouts at the South Plainfield Curling Club after the Salt Lake City Winter Games. He wound up joining full-time and developed quite a skill for the sport, participating in various bonspiels (curling tournaments) in the United States and Canada. The games will be held in Los Angeles in 2028; perhaps either the men or women can make a run in handball, played in front of thousands of fans and watched by millions more on TV sets, phones, and computers globally. Maybe it will be the boost this sport needs to catch fire and push the league to prominence either at the international or professional level. The knockout stage will be played at the Stade Pierre Mauroy in Lille, France, from August 7- 9, with the medal games taking place on August 11. Interesting Facts Karl Schelenz, Max Heiser, and Erich Konigh created the rules on October 29, 1917 in Berlin. The first international games were held in 1925 (men) and 1930 (women) It debuted at the 1936 Berlin Games as an outdoor event. The event returned in 1972 with Yugoslavia winning gold. The first women’s games were held at the 1976 Montreal Games, with the Soviet Union winning gold. The International Handball Federation was created in 1946. There are 30-plus international competitions around the world. France won gold in men and women at the Tokyo 2020 games. ------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Vandivier Gymnasium 625 Grizzly Cub Dr. Franklin, IN 46131 Franklin Community HS Grizzly Cubs Franklin Community Gym website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 4,112 The Vandy is Still Dandy in Franklin The Vandivier Gym opened with Franklin Community High School for the 1961-1962 academic year. The gym would host its first game on November 14 in front of a near-capacity crowd at the 4,112 building. The gym would be home to Franklin Grizzly Cubs basketball until the 2005-2006 school year, when modern facilities were constructed less than 2.5 miles away. The Vandy Gym and campus is now the middle school, but at least one high school home game a season, sometime in late January. The idea stems from the school’s AD, who was a 1990 graduate and wants the old gym to provide a few more memories to the town of Franklin. The night of our visit was to honor the 50th-anniversary state championship finalists of 1973-1974. The venue gets its name from Robert Polk “Fuzzy” Vandivier, a legendary player on the Franklin Wonder Five. They captured three state high school championships from 1920-1922 with a combined record of 89-9, and then all five men moved a few blocks away to Franklin College and won two more state college championships in 1923 and 1924. After college, Vandivier was the head coach of the Cubs and later the athletic director from 1923-1964. Food & Beverage 3 A small concession stand offers hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy, and soda. There is a limited menu selection due to it handling a middle school crowd regularly. There is also an upstairs concession window that might be used for the larger high school crowds. The school offers Pepsi products, good-sized hot dogs with a proper meat-to-bun ratio, and additional toppings of chili and cheese. The stand does not take credit cards but does accept Venmo through an app on the phone. The first of its kind was witnessed at an Indiana high school gym. Atmosphere 3 The Vandy Gym appears frozen in time since the Grizzly Cubs last played inside its walls. The old court still has the hand-painted school logo; the words Grizzly Cubs are arched over the 3-point line, and the school colors of light blue and white adorn the walls. However, the main focal points are its walls and lighting. The walls hang low with a set of lights that reflect off the basketball court below. It is similar in design to the Glen Ray Gym just up the road at Whiteland High School. The Vandy Gym also features an upper concourse that wraps around the seating bowl for easy access and a play area for younger students. There are two sets of stands: the upper permanent bleachers and the lower pull-out bleachers that are adorned in plastic. Fans are close to the action all around the lower seating, and metal fencing separates the upper rows of seats for safety and access. Neighborhood 4 Downtown Franklin is known for its quaint restaurants and locally-owned shops since featured in the December 2, 1940 edition of Life magazine. That spirit remains intact 80-plus years later, where visitors can find everything from bars to casual and chef-driven restaurants, shops, bakeries, cafes, and breweries. Downtown is less than 2 miles from the Vandy Gym. Many buildings were constructed in the 1800s and now feature local places for food and drink. Blue Cactus Tacos & Tequila Bar and Shale Creek Brewery are two such establishments that are ideal spots before or after the game. The Artcraft Theater was built in 1922 and has been restored to its original look, offering second-run movies. Next door is The Willard, built in 1860. Today, it is a bar and restaurant. There are more places to choose from on its official website. North of the gym on US-31 is an array of fast-food restaurants and regional chain eateries. There are also retail, supermarkets, and several other places of interest. It is ideal for a quick bite on the run or with the family. Fans 4 Franklin fans are a vocal bunch who make it well-known what they think of a call or play on the court. Many have been coming to games for decades and enjoy watching high school hoops in the old building. The student cheer block was present, and the small group did their best to help out their classmates on the floor. Access 4 The Vandivier Gym is located at the middle school and easily accessible off of US-31 on the northbound side of the highway. A large parking lot on the south side provides plenty of parking before the game. Once inside, a wraparound concourse above the upper seating bowl allows fans to enjoy the game from a different perspective, and external staircases provide easy exits after the game. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket to a game is $7, concession prices are $3 for a hot dog and nachos, and a table sells used basketball gear and older T-shirts for $1 or $3. Venmo is an acceptable form of payment without cash. Extra 2 The Vandy Gym earns a point for its wrap-around concourse, low ceiling and lighting, and its name for one of the best players who ever laced his sneakers up, Robert “Fuzzy” Vandivier. Final Thoughts A visit to the Vandivier Gym is a rare opportunity for fans of high school basketball. The gym only hosts one game a year in January, and plans are to make it more of an event to create a unique tradition in the state. The stands are filled with former players, alumni, and other fans who make a Grizzly Cub game at the venerable gym a rare treat. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com