Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Road America N7390 WI-67 Elkhart Lake, WI 53073 SRO Motorsports website Road America website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 150,000 Wisconsin’s GT Festival Road America is often regarded as one of the greatest race tracks in the world, let alone the US. While the track’s annual schedule features IndyCar, IMSA, and others, SRO America provides a weekend of GT-only sportscar racing. The supercars on track offer stellar racing over four days, including unrivaled fan access and unique fan event opportunities. Racing in a beautiful setting that proves to be both fan-friendly and easy to navigate, this summer event is a must-see on the SRO slate.   Food & Beverage   5 There are a lot of places to eat at Road America, and the ones that exist are an absolute treat for the pallet. Road America is led by The Gearbox, a hillside stand and bar that features some of the best views on the property, as well as the best food around. Being in Wisconsin you can get the best cheese and sausage foods here, as well as a brilliantly tasty breakfast food called eggers ($10). Johnsonville is heavily featured, as it is literally the next town over, and their brats ($9 to $13) are a fan favorite. Sargento cheese curds ($7) are also a popular item, as are the burgers ($9 to $12.50), gearbox melt ($11), and TKA sandwich ($15). Beer is of course plentiful, and a Spotted Cow is a must-have in Wisconsin. You can also find tons of other options, including broasted chicken outside Turn 3, tacos at Turn 7, and a tiki bar out at the beach by the kink and carousel corners. Atmosphere   5 The atmosphere around Road America during race weekend is very family-friendly and relaxed. The best in the sport are taking part in some of the most exciting racing around, and despite the tension of the competition, everyone – including the teams and drivers – is in a relaxed and fun-loving mood. There is just something about the beauty of the countryside and the forests around the premises that put everyone in a go-race-and-enjoy-every-minute-of-it state of mind. In 2025 the track also debuted a new viewing area at the top of the hillside outside Canada Corner called Road America North Pole, and the old walkover bridge along the front stretch was rebuilt as well – it is now large enough to drive a golf cart over. Additionally, SRO weekend features a fan fest on Thursday night in Elkhart Lake, featuring racecars on display, driver autograph sessions, giveaways, and live music. Neighborhood   4 The area around Road America is exactly what you would expect to find in rural Wisconsin – rolling hills, farmland, forests, and small towns. The town of Elkhart Lake is quaint and small, but is seething with racing history and lore. Famed racing announcer David Hobbs calls this small town home, and the fans here are all die-hards who watch everything that happens on the track. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Road America, there are a wide variety of small bed-and-breakfasts to pick from in and around Elkhart Lake, as well as some cabins that can make you feel like you’re roughing it…sort of. In addition, the town of Sheboygan is only 20 to 30 minutes away by car, providing fans a chance to stay in a hotel chain of their choice – Holiday Inn, La Quinta, etc. are all located in Sheboygan. If you’re looking for something to eat, Sheboygan has a wide variety of restaurants, from Applebee’s to McDonald’s. But by far the most must-see eatery near Road America is Stop-Inn Tavern at Siebkens Resort in Elkhart Lake, a local bar that all of racing royalty has passed through at some time or another. And, for those looking for something else to see and do, Kettle-Moraine State Forest is not far from the track, providing some great hiking options. In addition, the Kohler factory is in nearby Sheboygan, and Road America’s location is just a 30-minute drive from the Great Lakes.   Fans   4 Fans at Road America are much like those in the rest of the Midwest – die-hard and series-knowledgeable. They’re also absurdly kind and sweet, willing to help in any way possible when you need assistance with anything. They also pack the camping areas around the speedway, making for one brilliant fan block party. While not exactly sporting the crowd sizes seen at IMSA or IndyCar weekends, SRO weekend at Road America has seen a steady increase in attendance over the past few years – no doubt this has been thanks in part to increased advertising and fan outreach for the event. Access   4 Getting to Road America isn’t as difficult as getting to some sports facilities. That said, it is off the beaten path – at least a 10-minute drive from the nearest highway, Road America requires you to drive down some single-lane roads through the hilly countryside. Once you’re at Road America you’ll discover that there are several other entrances to the track that you didn’t know about, which can be frustrating if you had to wait in line for hours; check the fan map of the venue to identify these alternate gates and entrances. The biggest plus at Road America is that the main entrance had a complete makeover in 2016, adding more entrance booths for faster processing of fans and campers. The track also features preferred VIP parking passes for $30. Return on Investment   5 Road America is one of the best tracks at which you can watch a race, and tickets to SRO weekend are very affordable; Friday tickets are $35, while Saturday or Sunday only are just $50. A weekend pass for $85 is also available, while 2-day VIP tower suites run $375 (upgrading from an existing ticket will cost just $325). The facility is huge, but you are given plenty of options to watch the race from without having to move from place to place. Watching from the right location can give you up to six corners of the track to see all at once, and you also get access to the grandstands all around the track, as well as access to the paddock, with your admission ticket to most races. Trackside camping is also popular, ranging from $50 to $325. Car corrals are available from $70 for one day to $125 for all three days. Extras   5 Perhaps the biggest fan attraction during SRO weekend is the annual racecar parade and festival in downtown Elkhart Lake, on Thursday evening of race weekend. Here, all the cars participating in the race weekend drive down through the town of Elkhart Lake and stage in front of Siebkens Resort. Then, fans can walk up and get a close view of all the cars, as well as meet some of the drivers for autographs. You can also take a trip to Elkhart Lake, and follow the original track layouts through historic markers along the roadside – before it had its current layout, Road America was a true street course, running through Elkhart Lake itself and over the hills on the various roadways in the nearby area. Back at the track, where once a zip line ended now stands a high vantage point for fans to watch the action at the track inside the final turn. The former zip line landing platform is now a giant viewing zone, and while you may have to climb a lot of stairs to get there, the view is well worth it. Additionally, if you have ever wanted to try your hand at racing, you can sign up for racing school at the track. If you can’t peel your eyes away from your mobile device, you can also engage with the race on social media, and see your photos and tweets on the various big screens around Road America by using specific hashtags and handles on Twitter and Instagram. If treetop views and social media aren’t your thing, you can also take a wandering hike through the forest on several pathways that meander through the mountains above Kettle Bottoms and Canada Corner – these trails lead from the top of the peak to the bottom of a newly-cleared pathway along the infamous straightaway. Finally, several autograph sessions happen during the weekend in the fan zone, offering fans a chance to see some of their favorite drivers. Final Thoughts If you want to see racing history and meet modern-day sports stars, take a trip to Road America – you will not be disappointed in what you find. In addition, if you want to take a step above that, go camping on the property during race weekend; the fans are nice, the action is top quality, and the weather is almost always beautiful. It’s hard to find a better place to see racing in North America than Road America.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Watkins Glen International 2790 County Route 16 Watkins Glen, NY 14891 Vintage Grand Prix website Watkins Glen International website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: 38,900 A Slimmed Down Vintage Festival While Watkins Glen International may be best known for the annu al IMSA 6 Hours  or t he NASCAR Cup Series race, the yearly celebration of vintage racing that is the Hilliard US Vintage Grand Prix is perhaps the most unique event at the track. Since they first began racing here in 1948, the speedway has attracted some of the greatest racers in all of motorsports, across a wide variety of manufacturers. Now this history is celebrated yearly when SVRA, Trans-Am, and IGT take to the track. While 2024’s event saw increased ticket prices, 2025 saw a return to the event’s traditional September date, along with the annual downtown festival and historic reenactment.   Food & Beverage   3 Watkins Glen International doesn’t have a lot of food vendors, with the main paddock cafe located in the main paddock near the front stretch – fans looking to visit the outer parts of the track may have slimmer pickings than those watching from the finish line. That said, the choices in the fan zone are simple, ranging from burgers ($13) and hot dogs ($5-$9) to chicken tenders ($15) and smaller snacks ($4-$8), while drinks run $4 for coffee or hot cocoa, $5 for water, Powerade, and sodas, $11 for Seltzer, $9-$11 for beer, and $7 for lemonade. Food trucks also line up inside the paddock area, offering various additional options as well.   Atmosphere   3 Watkins Glen International is located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, making the facility a beautifully located racing venue – the area is full of beautiful trees, meaning fans can find some shade in the hot sun. In addition, the track is laid out to be one of the fastest road courses in North America. Large grandstands also line the front straight, Turn 1, the esses, and the final corner complex, offering many different viewpoints for fans to watch from. For a raceway filled with history (the track regularly hosts NASC AR, IMSA , an d others, and has also hosted the likes of IndyCar and Formula 1 in the past), you cannot help but feel like you’re witnessing history come alive at this SVRA weekend. 2025 saw the return of the annual vintage festival in downtown Watkins Glen, including the historic car reenactment on the old course. Unfortunately this came at the cost of the Trans Am series, leading a massively decreased car count from the vintage races, with just SVRA and IGT on the docket.   Neighborhood   4 The track itself is about 5 minutes south of the town of Watkins Glen, nestled on the southern shores of Seneca Lake. The town is beautiful and quaint, featuring numerous local shops and restaurants, while north of town is New York wine country, with countless wineries all along the lake. For those willing to drive, the town of Ithaca is just a half hour east, where you can find hotels, restaurants, and shopping in the same town that is home to Cornell University. To the south, Elmira and Corning are 30 minutes away – if you visit the latter you can see the Corning Museum of Glass or the National Soaring Museum. In addition, sightseers routinely flock to Watkins Glen State Park for stunning hiking through a canyon of waterfalls, as well as Lakeside Park to watch the stars rise over the waters of Seneca Lake.   Fans   3 The fans at Watkins Glen International are once again a cross-section of sportscar racing diehards. New York racing fans are among the best in the country, and know how to throw a great party – the camping grounds are full all weekend long, and the fans know who to cheer for when the race is on the line. In addition, Friday’s vintage reenactment will see fans line the street while the cars dive past for hours, propping up folding chairs to get a view of the fun, much like one would see at a Fourth of July parade in a small town. With the separation of the Trans Am and SVRA weekends, the last few years have seen a massively decreased fan attendance compared to years past, when they were combined. Access   3 The biggest downside in getting to Watkins Glen International is its relatively isolated location – the nearest major highway is I-86 to the south and west, at least a 30-minute drive away. Traffic thankfully doesn’t back up nearby, though, and the roadways are relatively clear all weekend. Once at the track parking is plentiful all around, but navigating the track’s tunnels, bridges, and walkways can be daunting, as the facility is rather large. Track maps are placed throughout the venue, however, making getting from place to place a little easier.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets to SVRA weekend rose sharply in 2024, and that trend continued for the 2025 edition, starting at $69 for a one day weekend ticket to $91 for a weekend pass, which is considerably higher than SpeedTour weekend tic ket prices at other racing venues. Parking is free however, so you can get away without having to pay too much more, and the cost of Vintage Grand Prix weekend is still much lower than for the NASCAR and IMSA  weekends at Watkins Glen.   Extras   3 The track also has several fan zones to get you up close and personal with show cars, as well as to pick up some free giveaways. Fans can also wander the paddock area for free, giving you a great look at the teams working away at their machines. Victory Lane is also open to all fans, unlike at larger race series, offering fans the ability to take part in the podium celebration. Final Thoughts Watkins Glen vintage weekend is a showcase of the sport’s history and future, putting on a stellar weekend of racing that stretches across five days in early September. Without a doubt this event is a great one to put on your racing calendar, offering great weather, unparalleled access for fans, and top-notch on-track activity.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Legends Field 207 Legends Ln Lexington, KY 40505 Lexington Legends website Legends Field website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 6,994 A Legendary Return in Lexington What a strange few years it has been for the Lexington Legends. First, baseball is wiped out due to COVID-19, then the team loses its affiliation, next, new ownership comes in and rebrands the team, and then the original owner returns to the Legends name. Hopefully, there will be no more changes in town. Legends Field, formerly known as Wild Health Field and Whitaker Bank Park, opened in 2001 as Applebee's Park and returned professional baseball to Lexington for the first time since 1954. At the time of its construction, the city was the largest market without a baseball team. Fans quickly embraced the franchise, purchasing 1,950 season tickets within hours of going on sale and establishing a new South Atlantic League record. The 6,994-seat stadium was built in an era that saw 77 minor league ballparks built within ten years. Construction of the facility cost $13.5 million and was part of a $23 million complex privately financed by a group of 23 local investors, led by principal owner Brad Redmond. In 2016, the ballpark went through $500,000 in renovations, resulting in a wider entry plaza, expansion of the official team store, renamed Stache Shoppe, and the addition of the Bullpen Patio. Today, the team operates in the MLB Partnered Atlantic League after being dropped by Major League Baseball in December 2020. The Legends then rebranded as the Counter Clocks for the 2023 season, which included major renovations to the ballpark. This has ushered in a new era of baseball in Lexington. The ballpark is a cozy, modest facility that has a much older feel to it than its age. Its location is in a very unassuming part of town, but only a few miles from the nearest interstate or downtown corridors. Then again, there is something wonderfully simple about driving down a small road and having a baseball stadium appear on the horizon. Food & Beverage 3 The concourse has a fun horse racing theme that ties in nicely with Kentucky’s heritage. You’ll find stands like Jockey Nachos, the First Turn Grill for hot dogs, and the Exacta Grill serving up burgers and soft pretzels. It’s a clever touch that gives the ballpark a little extra character. That said, not everything is up and running. Several stands along the first base side are closed off with curtains, which makes the concourse feel a bit empty. On the plus side, Pepsi products are poured throughout the stadium, and there’s no shortage of beers and hard seltzers to go with your food. If you’re looking for something sweet, a few kiosks near the main entrance offer ice cream and shaved ice—perfect on a hot summer day. Atmosphere 3 Nearby horse racing tracks heavily influence the ballpark's design; elements of the sport include steeples and two murals on the exterior of the building. In total, there are eight steeples throughout the ballpark. The ballpark itself features a steep seating bowl with excellent sight lines and a middle concourse providing access to all sections, including the Pepsi Party Deck in right field, bleacher seats in left field, and the rather impressive Athena Kids play area behind the left field corner. The 2,000-square-foot Bullpen Patio down the first base line was created for anyone to enjoy the game. The patio replaced a small grassy berm and follows a path of similar “hang out” space at both major and minor league parks. The area is standing-room only and features beer and cocktail service. The Lexington Brewing & Distilling Taproom sits directly behind home plate, offering drafts of their beer and bourbon along with a full-service menu and waiting staff. The area also provides a partially covered outside patio to enjoy the game. The Lexington Legends have a cheer squad that gets the crowd going in between innings. Mighty Lex, the team's official mascot, makes his way around the stadium. During the 7th inning stretch, the crowd is encouraged to sing “My Old Kentucky Home” to add a local flare to proceedings. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is in a rather odd part of town, in an era when ballparks were built in downtown lots or off an entrance ramp of a major freeway, the ballpark was constructed adjacent to a small strip mall, 1.5 miles from the I-64 and I-75 interchanges. The best option is to take a drive downtown or to a few other areas around Lexington where one can find great restaurants, breweries, and distilleries. The city is home to two horse racing tracks: Keeneland (thoroughbred) and Red Mile (harness), which offer racing throughout the calendar year. Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm and an educational theme park that offers attractions and is a great place for kids and racing aficionados. The Historic Pepper Distillery District has become a popular spot in town. Photo by Marc Viquez The area is in the heart of the Bourbon Trail. Nearby distilleries include Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, and Lexington Brewing & Distilling (located in town and also features a brewery). Castle & Key is the newest distillery that took residence in the old limestone castle built in 1887. Tours and prices will vary, and all include a sample of bourbon on picturesque grounds. A personal favorite place to visit is the Historic Pepper Distillery District, a 25-acre entertainment complex that is less than 4 miles away from the stadium. Originally built in 1869 to produce bourbon, it is home to the James E. Pepper Distillery, Ethereal Brewing, Barrel House Distilling, The Elkhorn Tavern, Crank & Boom Ice Cream, and Wise Bird Cider Co. It is quite a popular place to visit in town. There is also the chance that your visit may coincide with a Kentucky Wildcats basketball game at Rupp Arena or a Kentucky Wildcats baseball game at Kentucky Proud Park . When you include your visit with horse racing, bourbon tours, great restaurants, and other sports, you have enough to do on a very long weekend. Fans 3 There is a faithful group of fans that attends Legends games, and the average is a tad over 2,000 per game on the season. The ones who are at the game do their best to cheer on the home team and provide plenty of enthusiasm on the night. Access 4 There are 1,200 parking spaces, plus 3,000 more within a 10-minute walk from the stadium. The middle concourse provides easy access to all points, and concession stands are brightly lit. The small nature of the ballpark can create a nice tour of the facility if one is interested in taking photos or enjoying the game from different vantage points. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices for Legends games start at $10 for box seats, $12 for field box, $15 for home plate premium, and $25 for the Diamond Club behind home plate. A dollar surcharge is added if bought the day of the game. The parking lot charges $5 and $7 for the premium lot. On Tuesday nights, tickets are $2, and that also includes hot dogs, popcorn, and Pepsi cans for the same price. Friday and Saturday nights feature fireworks, Waggy Wednesdays let fans bring their favorite canine to the game and BOGO hot dogs, and Thirsty Thursdays feature $2 domestic and $3 craft beers. Sundays offer free tickets to Kid Club members and players' autographs. Extras 3 One star for the mural of Trinity Gay down the first base side of the exterior of the ballpark. The daughter of U.S. track star Tyson Gay was killed in a crossfire shooting at a restaurant in 2016; she was just 15 years old. The 30-foot mural was designed by Dani Green and includes the words “Pass the Baton.” Another star for the Lexington Brewing & Distilling Taproom, a great spot to enjoy the game from either inside the bar or on the patio in the back of home plate on the middle concourse. This is one of the best views in the stadium and right in the middle of all the action. A third and final star is for bringing back the Legend name, complete with an updated logo that features a personified baseball in a 19th-century era uniform. Final Thoughts Legends Field was built in an era where minor league ballparks opened up across the country in record numbers. The ball club has placed itself among the copious sporting and entertainment options for over 20 years and is growing in Lexington. A ballpark that features seats close to the diamond, cheap tickets, and cheaper eats is what minor league baseball used to be and what it should still be for the average fan. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Dehler Park 901 N 27th St Billings, MT 59101 Billings Mustangs website Dehler Park website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 3,071 Billings Baseball Dehler Park is the home of the Billings Mustangs, a rookie league baseball team (Cincinnati Reds) in the Pioneer League. In 2008, it replaced the old Cobb Field, which was beginning to show a state of disrepair and was demolished as part of the building of the new Dehler Park. The Mustangs began play in 1948 and have won 15 Pioneer League titles, most recently in 2014. They have been affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds for at least 42 consecutive years, making that partnership one of the longest-running player development relationships in professional baseball. The organization does a fabulous job at making a game day experience so very entertaining for fans attending a ball game in Billings, MT; one you’ll want to go back to several times. The game, the players, and the fans are the entertainment, and there are many conveniences for the modern baseball fan at this ballpark. Food & Beverage 4 Dehler Park provides an outstanding variety of food and beverage items for a Mustangs game at affordable prices. Lines can get long at times, but they move relatively quickly. The concessions close before the 7th inning, so be sure to get your appetite filled earlier in the game. Permanent stands ‘First and Third’ (on both sides of the concourse) offer hot dogs, sausage, chicken wings, a variety of fries, pretzels, and nachos ($3.50 – $6.00). It has snacks of popcorn, peanuts, candy, crackerjacks, ice cream, pickles, and more ($1.75 – $3.00). Sodas are the Pepsi variety at $2.50 / $3.50 (refillable for $1.00 / $1.50). Water is $2.50 a bottle. Uncle Charlies Cheese Steak ($8), Diablo Dogs ($4.50), Mountain Mudd espresso, Caramel Korn, and Chocolate Strawberry kabobs round out some of the carts speckled throughout the concourse. The Bob Wilson Memorial Plaza in left field provides a slew of picnic tables (in and out of the shade) on a grass surface to enjoy the concessions before heading to your seat. The specialty food item, the Stang Burger, can be found at the Lead-Off Grill hidden behind the third base concourse. The Stang Burger is a hamburger topped with beef brisket for $7.50 and is yummy. At this same stand, regular burgers, beer brats ($4.00), and other items are grilled fresh. There are beer concessions on the first and third baseline concourses and in the outfield, offering an excellent selection including two local brews at $5.50. The one on the third baseline offers a more varied selection and is the one I’d recommend visiting (it is also right next door to the Lead-Off Grill and near the picnic area). Outside food or drink is not permitted. Atmosphere 4 Dehler Park provides a stellar game day operation as the focus is on the baseball game being played. Nets cover seating areas from behind the entire dugout to the end of the other dugout (sections 108 to 116). To sit net free choose section 117 or higher on the third base side or section 107 and higher on the first base side. All seats are the plastic green fold-down variety with cup holders, with the exception of bleacher seats in sections 105 and 106. The bullpen seating areas are in sections 105 (first base) or 118 (third base). If you can get a seat in row 1, you’ll be right in front of the relief pitchers when they begin their warm-ups. The 329 Club in left field is named for the distance from home plate. It is a reserved seating area for corporate and party events. Drink rails are only in the outfield on the left field side. Some tables are scattered around the outfield walkways. A few sections in the infield seating area have canopies overhead. A recommendation is to sit on the third base side, as the first base seats are directly in the setting sun’s path. Bring your sunscreen and umbrella, as there is minimal shade and no place to go for shelter if it rains. What a treat – music is only played between innings and not between pitches and batters. There are no player walk-up songs. The PA announcer is audible. Neighborhood 4 The ballpark is walking distance (eight or so blocks) to historic downtown Montana Ave, where there are a variety of places to eat, drink, sleep, and tour. It sits next to a hospital and is very close to the airport. Expect to see a few airplanes or helicopters passing over the field. There is an Impressive selection of dining options, including pitas, wraps, pizza, Indian, cafes, sandwich shops, fine dining, steaks, Mexican, and more in and around Billings. Recommended places to eat are Montana Brewing Company or Uberbrew (breweries with food) and Bernie’s (diner – open for breakfast and lunch). Better yet, take the Brewery Tour (1.5 mile walking tour visiting Billings’ breweries while stopping at historical points along the way). For finer dining, check out Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar or Jake’s Steakhouse eight blocks south of the stadium. There are several hotels within a mile of the ballpark and even more in the extended metropolitan area. I stayed at the Riversage Billings Inn (two blocks from Dehler Park) and would recommend it. Downtown also hosts a Best Western or Crowne Plaza if you prefer name-brand hotels. There are plenty of things to see and do when visiting Billings. Check out the Western Heritage Center in downtown, drive or hike the Rimrocks for a beautiful view, visit ZooMontana or tour the Moss Mansion. Fans 5 The Mustang fans are the best part of what makes attending a game so enjoyable. They certainly are conversant about the game of baseball, with discussions heard throughout the game containing ‘He should bunt,’ ‘Will they walk him to get the double play?,’ or ‘He hit one out of here last night.’ And after a bad or missed play you’ll politely hear fans saying, ‘It IS still a development league.’ And they disagree with the umpire's calls and mimic the safe and out calls (always in favor of the Mustangs player). Lots of fans keep score. The starting lineup is posted just to the left of the home plate entrance. Be sure to pick up a game program for $1, which includes the current roster for both teams, a fine-looking scorecard, and the magazine program. It is a family-friendly atmosphere, and it is easy to strike up a conversation with your neighbors. They make it fun. Averaging over 3,000 fans a game, the Mustangs fans consistently fill the stadium (especially since the opening of Dehler Park). Access 3 From I-90, take exit 450 (27th St) north about two miles to 9th Ave. The ballpark will be on your right. Make a right on 9th Ave (at the Perkins and CVS), and there is a small parking lot (free) a block up on the left. Parking is also available throughout the neighborhood. There is bus service in Billings, but it does not appear to be an option to get to and from the ballpark, as service ends at 6:40 pm weekdays/5:45 pm on Saturdays with no service on Sundays. The closest airport is Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) and is just a few minutes from Dehler Park. Of course, if staying in the downtown area, walking is your best option, and it is completely safe to walk back after the game. Restrooms are ample and clean There are three entrances to the ballpark: home, right field, and left field. The batting cage for the Mustangs is next to the left field entrance, so this is a perfect place to get autographs from the young players. One can walk the entire concourse both inside and outside. Gates open an hour before the first scheduled pitch. The concourses are nice and wide, making traffic flow smooth. . Return on Investment 4 A trip to see a Mustangs game in Dehler Park is well worth the money spent. Single game tickets range from $4 (standing room) to $10 (club seats – those directly behind home plate in sections 110 – 114). I’d recommend the $6 ($5 kids and seniors 60+) field box seats in section 117, as those are net free and the sun is not in your face. That’s better than a movie ticket! There are a few promotional nights throughout the season, so check their schedule for a listing. The parking is free, food and beverage prices are reasonable, and the game day is just a whole lot of fun. Extras 5 In center field, there is the KZone. An individual keeps track of the strikeouts by Mustangs’ pitchers and adds a K (forwards or backwards, depending on strike) along the outfield wall for each strikeout. Daylight lasts forever in Montana in the summer. A game starting at 7 pm that lasts for two and a half hours, and it can still be daylight when heading back home. There are two statues outside the park, as well as plaques for fans who have donated considerable finances towards the construction of the ballpark. One of the statues is a tribute to Ed Bayne, a civic and athletic hero and coach for many years of the American Legion baseball program in Billings. The other honors Dave McNally, the famed Orioles left-handed pitcher, who was from Billings. The Rimrocks (300-foot-high sandstone bluffs surrounding the valley) provide a spectacular view from the ballpark. For those with kids, there is a huge bounce house down the right field concourse for them to expend some energy if needed. The game day staff is as nice and friendly as can be. Final Thoughts This is an excellent ballpark to visit, with the focus of entertainment on the ballgame while still providing modern conveniences, good food, and engaging fans.

Photos by Paul Baker and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Newman Outdoor Field 1515 15th Avenue North Fargo, ND 58102 Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks website Newman Outdoor Field website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 4,690 Hello, Newman Originally called “The Nest,” Newman Outdoor Field was constructed in 1996 at $5.5 million. Local company Newman Outdoor Advertising purchased the naming rights to the ballpark in 1998. In addition to serving as the home to the American Association’s Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks, the ballpark is home to the North Dakota State University Bison baseball team. The Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks began their existence in 1996 as members of the Northern League, winning five championships during their 15 seasons in that circuit. After the 2010 season, the Redhawks, along with three other teams, left the Northern League to join the rival American Association. The Redhawks reached the AA championship series in 2021, losing to the Kansas City Monarchs. Food & Beverage 5 Newman Outdoor Field has a capacity of 4,172, and it feels like there is an individual concession item here for every single fan who shows up. Portable and permanent stands run the length of the concourse down both sides of the ballpark. There are two permanent stands located on either side of the main entrance to the concourse. In addition to hot dogs (regular-sized, chili, or foot-long), nachos (regular-sized or helmet-sized portion), pulled pork sandwiches, and bratwurst, fans can order pickled eggs or pickles on a stick. Coca-Cola products are featured and advertised as “pop.” You can even get a 20-ounce draft beer for only $6.50 or purchase 2 cans of PBR for $6 before the first pitch. And this is just the beginning. Other stands lined up along the concourse (and we’re not talking about a row of portable carts; many are permanent structures) sell mini-donuts, giant pretzels (I do mean GIANT), sno cones, caramel apples, Dippin’ Dots, Marco’s Pizza, tacos, grinders, and burritos. When I say that there is something for everyone at Newman Outdoor Field, I mean it literally. Beer stands scattered throughout the concourse sell national brands, but also feature local craft brews from Hamm’s and Surly Breweries, among others. Coca-Cola products are featured at Newman Outdoor Field. Don’t feel like a beer or pop? Check out the lemonade stand or get a top-shelf adult beverage at the Captain Morgan stand. Atmosphere 3 A lot is going on at Newman Outdoor Field, much more than you may expect at such a small place. If you come in through the right field entrance, you are met immediately by the children’s playground, which is filled with kids burning off energy throughout the game. An important feature of the playground, as this writer was informed by a nearby parent, is that you can sit on the party deck and watch the game and your children at the same time. Coincidence or not, this is huge. Veteran minor league baseball fans will find a lot that is familiar here in Fargo. There is a great deal of noise to distract the casual fans and to keep the younger fans involved and entertained. Music plays between batters, the typical on-field shenanigans are going on between innings, and there is a mascot who wanders the ballpark posing for photos and interacting with fans. The scoreboard in left-center field is used with game stats and player information throughout the game. The Redhawks enjoy a close connection with the community, as evidenced by a large number of local sponsors and activities, including a naturalization ceremony that happens annually at Newman Outdoor Field. Neighborhood 3 Newman Outdoor Field is located on the campus of North Dakota State University, near the school’s other athletic facilities, including the Fargodome and the Scheels Center . Located right near the airport, fans will find no shortage of places to eat or stay a short distance from the ballpark. Since most of the options near the university are chains, visiting fans may want to head downtown, where the options are more varied. Downtown Fargo is just a couple of miles from the ballpark. Some excellent breweries, including Drekker Brewing Company and Fargo Brewing Company, are highly recommended by locals. For a true midwestern experience, check out Wurst Bier Hall or The Boiler Room. Visiting fans looking for lodging will find plenty of choices throughout the city. Visiting sports fans will certainly want to check out the Roger Maris Museum, located in the West Acres Mall. Set up in a hallway of a local shopping mall at Maris’ request, the display cases lining the hall do a nice job of displaying mementos from the home run king’s career. If you have the time, the video of Maris’ life, shown in a small viewing room with actual Yankee Stadium seats, is worth your while. Fans 3 The Redhawks have consistently ranked in the top five of the American Association attendance rankings, averaging in the neighborhood of 3,000 fans per game. At Newman Outdoor Field you’ll find a crowd that is similar in composition to other minor league baseball crowds, with lots of dedicated diehard fans, lots of casual fans enjoying an inexpensive night out, and a lot of families. Even though Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota, there’s a real small-town feel going on here. “North Dakota Nice” is a real thing, and you may find yourself spending your night speaking with a bunch of people around you like you’ve known each other all your life. Access 4 Newman Outdoor Field is located on the campus of North Dakota State University, just two miles from Interstate 29 and just a few miles from the Red River and the Minnesota state line. Driving is the primary method for getting to the ballpark, and fans will find it easy to do so. Exit 67 deposits travelers on 19th Avenue. Follow this road for a mile and a half, and the NDSU athletic facilities will be on your right. There are ample parking lots both by the main entrance on 15th Avenue and by the right field entrance on Albrecht Boulevard. No matter which entrance you use to get into the ballpark, you will climb a flight of stairs to reach the concourse, which is located at the top of the seating bowl and features views of the field from all spots. With all the concession structures scattered around the concourse, it can become cramped in spots at times, but fans will generally have no issues navigating their way around the ballpark. The seating bowl stretches from first base to third base. Most of the seating consists of individual green stadium seats. The last two sections on the third base side of the field were added after the initial construction of the ballpark (watch your step; they did not line up the new structure with the old one very well) and featured individually molded bleachers. Bleacher sections are capping off the seating areas in both right and left field. Party areas are located on either side of the seating bowl as well. Netting protects the majority of seats in the infield, and all seats feature excellent views of the field. As mentioned earlier, there is a lot of activity going on here at a Redhawks game, but getting around is still pretty easy. With a large number of concession stands, lines tend to move quickly and are not an issue. Restrooms are clean and large enough to handle a typical crowd. Return on Investment 4 The majority of tickets to Redhawks games are sold as reserved seats priced at $12 per seat. Seats in the farthest sections down the third baseline (sections L and M) are sold for $8 per seat, and bleacher sections are sold for $7 per seat. All tickets increase in price by two dollars on game day, with fireworks nights priced at a premium with a two-dollar surcharge. Parking in the lots surrounding Newman Outdoor Field costs an additional three dollars. Concessions are reasonably priced as well. A night at a Redhawks game is the most affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. Extras 3 Retired numbers line the façade of the luxury suite level, including Fargo native Roger Maris’ number 8 and Jackie Robinson’s number 42. The press box is dedicated to the longtime radio voice of the Redhawks, local personality Scott Miller, who lost his battle with cancer in 2016. Adorning the façade of the press box is his signature call, “My Oh My.” The on-field dimensions of Newman Outdoor Field, with a deep left-center field alley and a short right field fence, are designed to mimic the old Yankee Stadium, where local boy Roger Maris broke the long-standing home run record with 61 home runs in 1961. Final Thoughts Some baseball fans fail to consider ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field because they are not a part of the affiliated system. These fans are doing themselves a huge disservice. Ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field and cities like Fargo are the backbone of minor league baseball. Boasting affordable prices, a friendly atmosphere, and a comfortable, fun place at which to watch a game, a trip to North Dakota is a worthy Stadium Journey for any baseball fan. ----- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith and Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 loanDepot park 501 Marlins Way Miami, FL 33125 Miami Marlins website loanDepot park website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 36,742 Fish Depot The Miami Marlins are a Major League Baseball team that plays in Miami, Florida, in loanDepot Park (yes, that is the official stylization of the name). The Marlins began as an expansion team in the 1993 season as the Florida Marlins. From 1993 to 2011, they played in the stadium now known as Hard Rock Stadium, then known as Joe Robbie Stadium. In 2012, the team moved to loanDepot Park (then known as Marlins Park), their first exclusive home and the first to be designed as a baseball park. As part of an agreement with park owner Miami-Dade County to use the stadium, the franchise also changed its name to the Miami Marlins before the 2012 season. loanDepot Park is a retractable roof stadium located on the site of the former Miami Orange Bowl in Little Havana, about 2 miles west of Downtown Miami. It is the third-smallest stadium in Major League Baseball by official capacity. It often seems even smaller because the upper deck is only used occasionally for big games. The facility hosted a second-round pool of the 2013 World Baseball Classic, a first-round pool of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, the 2017 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, and the championship game of the 2023 World Baseball Classic. The park also hosts soccer matches, fundraising galas, and other events during the winter. It also hosted the Miami Beach Bowl from 2014 through 2016. The stadium will also be a host for the finals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions offerings at loanDepot Park have a good amount of Latin food, as well as kosher food for the many Jewish fans who live in the South Florida area. Traditional ballpark fare is available at Top Dogs, the Fowl Pole, Fat Tuesdays, and Magic City BBQ. Latin-inspired foods are available at El Mercadito, PINCHO, Bites de la Calle, and Street Taco. If you are open to trying new foods, check out the Change Up STAND. This stand offers a test kitchen menu of possible future food offerings at loanDepot Park. The menu is always being rotated, so it is a good place to check out every time you attend a Marlins game. The Family Fav’s Stand has some cheaper, albeit smaller, options as part of its 305 menu. The Biscayne Brew Hall is located between sections 15/16 and features the Marlin’s lager, as well as an assortment of craft beers. Atmosphere 4 loanDepot Park has a different look and feel from pretty much any other MLB stadium. It feels like a Miami stadium. and doesn't follow the trends of others. Some may not like that, but we find it sort of refreshing. When the stadium opened, a large art installation in center field was certainly discussed by many people. It included all sorts of elements that are suggestive of South Florida. The art installation has now been relocated to the exterior of the ballpark. The stadium has a glass wall that gives you a stunning view of the Downtown Miami skyline. loanDepot park Glass Panels, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey The Marlins have several special event nights, including various ethnic heritage nights. The team also has a great Marlins Museum located on the upper level. Neighborhood 3 loanDepot Park is on the edge of the Little Havana section of Miami. There are not many choices in the way of restaurants or entertainment right by the stadium. Of course, Little Havana has many great options to choose from. We are big fans of trying the Mojitos at Old's Havana AND the Ball & Chain. It is always great to compare...The heart of Little Havana may be a bit far to walk, so you may have to drive between the areas. For many other options, you will need to get far away from the stadium area. Fans 2 The Marlins don't draw that well. Often, the majority of the fans are of the visiting team. It is a very relaxed time at a Marlins game and not a typical baseball environment. Access 3 I-95 South and I-75 South are relatively nearby, but traffic is likely to be a problem accessing the stadium. The old Orange Bowl location is just not a perfect location for a large number of fans converging on a location. loanDepot Park has four parking decks and six surface lots near the stadium. You can prepay for parking, but it is easier to just pay by app once parked. It may feel weird not stopping and paying before entering the parking area, but it is a very smooth process. All parking areas offer a full complement of ADA-accessible spaces. You could walk from Little Havana to a game, but that might not solve parking issues, as that area has parking issues of its own. loanDepot park is served by two Miami-Dade Metrorail stops within a mile of the ballpark (Culmer and Civic Center), the Tri-Rail Connection via the Historic Overtown/Lyric Theatre Station to MiamiCentral Station, eight other Metrobus routes, and the City of Miami Trolley Route. Another great option is Brightline, which offers free shuttles from its downtown Miami station to and from the game. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are generally on the lower end of MLB stadiums. The secondary market will be a great place to find even cheaper prices. Parking costs are variable, so a weeknight game against a non-traditional opponent may be cheaper than a divisional rival on a weekend. Concession prices are reasonable compared to most MLB ballparks. Extras 5 loanDepot Park has hosted a few unique events, like the World Baseball Classic and even an NCAA college football bowl game. loanDepot Park is built on the site of the former Orange Bowl Stadium. There are numerous signs mentioning the history of the stadium. The Bobblehead Museum, on the concourse, has more than 600 baseball-related statues in a cool display case that keeps the heads bobbling away. Bobblehead Museum, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Billy’s Boathouse has a foam-surface playground that is very safe for the kids to play on. Billy the Marlin is the team's mascot. The team has bands and cheer squads keeping them engaged in the action. There are often post-game concerts and events, so check the team's website before coming to the game. Final Thoughts loanDepot Park may never make the top of MLB baseball stadium lists, but it is still an enjoyable place to watch a game in an environment that feels very true to its environment.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Haymarket Park 403 Line Drive Cr Lincoln, NE 68508 Lincoln Saltdogs website Haymarket Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 8,500 Home of the Saltdogs Haymarket Park is home to the Lincoln Saltdogs of the independent American Association and the University of Nebraska baseball team. Named for its location in Lincoln’s historic Haymarket District, the ballpark and adjacent softball field cost just under $30 million to build in 2001. The Saltdogs began play when the Madison Black Wolf were sold and moved to Nebraska following the 2001 season. After spending five seasons in the Northern League, the Saltdogs, along with three other teams, started the American Association in 2005. The Saltdogs have won one league championship, in 2009. The name Saltdogs is a nod to the history of the city of Lincoln. The city was founded on a salt flat back in the mid-1800s. Food & Beverage 4 Haymarket Park offers a good selection of concessions for hungry Saltdog fans. All your basic ballpark fare can be found here, plus some extra items worth checking out. Concession stands on either side of the diamond offer local favorites from Fairbury hot dogs and Valentino’s pizza. Variety is achieved through the offering of items including bratwurst, BBQ pork sandwiches and brisket sandwiches. A separate building behind home plate houses The Wind Up, where specialty nachos are sold, and the Craft Corner, featuring an extensive listing of both craft and national beers. Pepsi products are featured at Haymarket Park. Fans looking for an adult beverage can choose from national brands including Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, Blue Moon, Budweiser, Bud Light and Leinenkugel. Craft beers from local breweries Zipline Brewing, Empyrean Brewing, Kinkaider Brewing, Backswing Brewing Company and many more are sold throughout Haymarket Park. Atmosphere 3 Veteran fans of minor league baseball will find a lot that is familiar at a Lincoln Saltdogs game. All the elements of a typical game day presentation can be found here, from the fuzzy mascot to a new video scoreboard to between inning games for the kids and a full promotional schedule. Younger fans in attendance will certainly be drawn to the playground in deep right field or the play area in deep left field that features inflatables. Parents can charge their phones at the charging station while the kids release some energy. The large berm in left field is a popular place for kids to run around during the game, and the home run porch in right field is covered with an awning, providing relief from the hot summer sun and a place to enjoy a cool drink. Neighborhood 5 Haymarket Park gets its name from the nearby Haymarket District. Originally an open-air market and town gathering place, it is located just a few blocks from the ballpark. Visiting fans will find plenty of places to eat, lodging options and things to do there. More information on the shops, restaurants and activities present in the Haymarket District can be found here . Sports fans may be more interested in exploring Memorial Stadium, home of the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team, which is visible beyond the center field fence. Pinnacle Bank Arena , home of the Cornhuskers basketball team, is visible beyond the right field fence. Downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska campus are within walking distance of the ballpark. Fans 4 The Saltdogs annually average around 3,400 fans per game at Haymarket Park, which places them in the top half of teams in the American Association. Crowds at Haymarket Park are fairly typical of other independent ballparks across the country. A mix of families, locals and diehard fans fill the stands. The team markets to families and groups, meaning that not everyone is fully into the action on the field, but they are hardly distracting, and people watching is always part of the fun at a minor league ballpark, anyway. Access 4 Haymarket Park is easy to find, located near I-180 and the University of Nebraska campus. Walking bridges connect the ballpark to the campus and downtown areas. The ballpark features a 360 degree concourse with an open design, making the field visible from all points. There are two levels of seating, featuring individual stadium seating. Large berms lining the outfield double the ballpark’s seating capacity. Restrooms are clean and more than sufficient for a typical Saltdog crowd. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Saltdogs games vary in price from nine dollars for berm tickets to $19 for club seats behind home plate. The majority of seats at Haymarket Park range from $10-$15. Children under 12 years old and senior citizens receive a dollar off all tickets. Parking is free in the lots adjacent to the ballpark. Concession specials are offered on certain nights, making a visit to see the Saltdogs an affordable entertainment option for Lincoln sports fans. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the view beyond the outfield fence. Memorial Stadium, Pinnacle Bank Arena and the Nebraska State Capitol building are visible from the seating bowl. The Capitol building, with its 400 foot tower (the second tallest capitol building in the country), can be seen from over 20 miles away. A second point is awarded for the integration of activities for the whole family, from the play areas and berm spaces for younger fans, the active mascot, Homer the dog, and the wide selection of craft beer for adult fans. There is something for everyone at Haymarket Park. Final Thoughts Haymarket Park is a nice facility located close to downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska. Sports fans visiting the area should be sure to check out nearby Memorial Stadium. Baseball fans will enjoy the mix of the ballpark’s small town feel and modern amenities. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Michigan International Speedway 12626 US-12 Brooklyn, MI 49230 Michigan International Speedway website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 56,000 Speedin' in Michigan Situated in the Irish Hills region of Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is located about 70 miles west of Detroit. The track, which opened in 1968, plays host to the FireKeepers 400, an annual race on the NASCAR Cup schedule and the main event annually at the track. The track also hosts the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event. The 2-mile oval track has hosted numerous other events over the years, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series, IRL/IndyCar events, CART, USAC, and others. Food & Beverage 3 The raceway is cashless, so plan accordingly. A nice feature of many tracks, including Michigan International Speedway, is that you can bring in your own food and drinks, which can save a lot of money and time in line. Of course, if you choose to forgo having to carry in your own food, there are many options available at the track. At the permanent stands, you have your choice of burgers, chicken strips, and ham sandwiches along with fries, cookies, and random other items. Quite a few food trucks are also in the race, which opens far more options. One food truck has an awesome Italian sausage sandwich. If that is not your thing, there are various other fried options along with gyros, BBQ sandwiches, various types of nachos and more. Soda, water, energy drinks, and lemonade are available along with typical beer, wine, and mixed drink options. All prices run about what is expected at sporting venues in 2025. Atmosphere 3 This was a tough one to score for me. I liked the track. I liked some of the fan engagement options. However, there were a few glaring issues we experienced. Our tickets were located lower down the seating area (but not the first few rows…a reasonable way up). There are suites located above pit road, and as a result, you will not be able to see anything going on down the backstretch, as the view is blocked. I assume this issue can be avoided simply by getting tickets near the top of the seating area. For those of you who are tall, seating can be an issue, and I highly suggest getting a seat at the end of the row. There was very little leg room where we sat. In fact, for us to get out of our row, everyone else had to exit the row first or literally stand on their seats. I have visited numerous NASCAR tracks and have not seen a lack of legroom as an issue like it is here. I am told there are some seats that are a bit better, so if you have not visited before, I would highly recommend calling the track to order tickets and ask about legroom. Many tracks offer track access before the race, and Michigan is no different. We purchased the track access, and given the experience, I would recommend not. Other tracks I have visited allowed fans to walk up and down pit road (outside the wall) and see all the cars. The access here was relegated to a tiny area for the pre-race concert and driver introductions. I am unclear whether too many tickets were sold this year, but the area was crammed, and it was very difficult to get around without a major effort. There are plenty of things to do outside the seating area before the race. All the drivers have their merchandise trucks, and NASCAR has many quality displays that will keep fans busy until the green flag drops. Once the flag drops, it’s your typical NASCAR race atmosphere, which means a lot of noise and a lot of fun. Neighborhood 2 The speedway is located in Brooklyn, Michigan. The drive to the track is pleasant, but there is nothing immediately around the track other than residential areas. There is nowhere to walk to immediately after the race to have a drink or a bite to eat while the traffic clears out. Your best bet to find a restaurant/bar choice is about 3 miles north of the track. Our choice on this day was BC Pizza of Brooklyn. The pizza was quite good. Among the other choices in the area are Big Boy (did not know those still existed), Shady’s Tap Room, and PB&J’s BBQ. In the same area as the restaurants, you will find the only hotel in the area, a Super 8. Given the large crowds at the track, I assume this sells out quickly, so your best bet otherwise would probably be Jackson or Ann Arbor. Fans 5 It is hard to beat the passion shown by NASCAR fans. They are not shy about cheering for their favorite driver(s) or showing complete disdain for the drivers they do not like. It amounts to an engaged and loud crowd throughout the race. Access 3 Given the location, there are few ways in and few ways out. As such, I’d suggest trying to get there early because the lines will get longer and longer as the race grows closer. Parking is ample, although you will have a longer walk the closer it is to race time. Once inside, the foot traffic flows decently out in the concession/merchandise area. There are a good number of restrooms, although you can expect to wait in line near the end of the first and second stages. Return on Investment 3 Buying tickets early can save you a few bucks and is worth the effort. Depending on where you want to sit (noting the atmosphere section), you can expect to pay around $67 to $130 for a seat. This is about the going rate at most tracks. With free parking and average concession prices, you get a decent return for what you pay. Extras 2 An extra point goes to the ability for fans to bring in their own food and drinks. Allowing this shows goodwill on behalf of the track staff, and that can go a long way on a hot day. Another extra point goes to all the merchandise available. Whether you want something from your favorite driver, NASCAR itself, or some speedway swag, it is all available. Final Thoughts If you are a racing fan, there are a lot of good reasons to visit Michigan International Speedway. The 57-year-old track needs some upgrades, including more legroom for sure. But, once you are settled into your seat, the track hosts a wonderful race every year that is worth a visit. Final note …the author’s phone died before the race started, so photos are unfortunately minimal. Follow all of James' stadium journeys on X @ stadiumjwriter .   Email: james.hilchen@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Aurora Community Centre 1 Community Centre Ln Aurora, ON L4G 7B1 Aurora Tigers website Aurora Community Centre website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 1,344 Welcome To The Jungle In 1953, the Aurora Bears were founded as members of the Metro Junior B Hockey League.  Over the years, a number of things have changed in Aurora, a town north of Toronto.  The team rebranded to the Aurora Tigers in 1967, and in 1985, the Tigers made the jump to Junior A.  The failure of the Junior A league sent the Tigers back down to Junior B and another rebrand to become the Aurora Eagles.  In 1996, the current iteration of the team was formed when they settled on the Aurora Tigers as their moniker, and they moved to the OPJHL the following year.  The OPJHL became the current OJHL, and the Tigers have enjoyed great success.  They are currently owned by Jim Thomson and boast Buckland Cup Championships and RBC Cup Championships as OJHL and National Champions, respectively, in 2004 and 2007. The home for the Tigers is the Aurora Community Centre.  Built by the Town of Aurora in 1966, the ACC was part of the Centennial Project and eventually morphed from a single rink to a community hub with another rink and meeting rooms.  Food & Beverage 2 In the north rink, there is a small concession on the east side of the arena. The menu is fairly limited, consisting of hot dogs, popcorn, Pepsi products, Gatorade, water, chips, chocolate bars, candy, and beef patties. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and French Vanilla are also available. In the lobby, there are also a couple of vending machines. Atmosphere 4 The exterior of the Aurora Community Centre shows two separate rinks joined by a breezeway.  The north rink is the home of the Tigers.  The exterior features brown brick on the bottom with light siding at the top and green trim.  The exterior does not give away the 1966 birthday of the original rink.  Entering the community centre gives fans an old-school feel.  A small box office booth is found in the entry and is highlighted by dark brown brick, which totally changes the feel from the exterior.  Upon entry, fans are greeted with several minor hockey team pictures and trophy cases.  Pictures of local NHL alumni Bob Wall and Rick Hampton can be found here.  Some Aurora Tigers team pictures and artifacts can be found in the lobby, so a little exploring is definitely appropriate.  Fans will then ascend the stairs to the upper level, where entry to the arena can be found. Inside the arena, fans are taken back in time.  The ice surface in the arena is north-south oriented, and the best spot for a picture of the centre ice logo is from the west side.  Seating consists of five rows of wooden “love” seats with a walkway behind the seating, under a peaked roof with massive wooden support beams.  Aurora Tiger championship banners hang on the west side of the arena and include division titles, the 2004 and 2007 Buckland Cups, and the 2004 and 2007 Royal Bank Cups.  Fans are protected with netting around the entire ice surface.  The arena is well kept, and it is clear that a fresh coat of paint was applied in the not-too-distant past.  The arena gives vibes that are old, but not dirty, which is perfect. The gameday production at the Aurora Tigers is very simple.  The speaker system is good, and it is easy to hear announcements.  There are plenty of ads on the Tiger uniforms, akin to European hockey teams.  There were no promos; however, the game that was reviewed was a school-day game, so there may be promotions for a regular game. Neighbourhood 3 Aurora Community Centre is located in the Aurora Heights neighborhood of Aurora.  There are a few spots for pre- or post-game food and drink.  Some options include Coop’s Aurora Bistro, Orchid Thai, Grill Gate, TJ’s Bar and Grill & Wicket Eats.  As far as other sports go, the Tigers are the only game in town, but they do have close rivalries with the King Rebellion and Markham Royals.  Otherwise, heading south to Toronto will offer a ton of sports options.  Other tourist options in Aurora include the Aurora Historical Society / Hillary House, Aurora Arboretum, and Canadian Moments Mural.  For fans who wish to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn Express Aurora is not far from the Aurora Community Centre. Fans 2 Fans are a bit challenging to assess in the OJHL as the league does not congregate and publish attendance statistics.  As of this writing, the Aurora Tigers averaged 118 fans per game in the 2024-25 season.  That ranks them 17th in the league.  The previous season, the Tigers averaged approximately the same per game.   Access 3 The Aurora Community Centre is located in the Aurora Heights neighbourhood in Aurora, which is north of Toronto.  It is 9 km east of Highway 400 and 5.5 km west of Highway 404, one block west of Yonge Street.  Getting to the arena is not that difficult.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are bus stops on Yonge Street.  Fans should consult the York Region Transit website for fares, maps, and schedules.  Getting around the Aurora Community Centre is not too difficult; however, the arena is an older building, and it may be a bit of a challenge to get to the top of the arena.  The older, wooden seating does not provide the most comfortable experience.  The washrooms are small but adequate for the number of fans that attend a Tigers game.  Aurora Tigers games are cash only, which may be an issue for some.  Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Aurora Tigers are a bit on the expensive side for the OJHL.  Adult tickets are $18 and available at the door for cash only.  Discounts are available for seniors and kids.  Concession prices are good, and parking on site is free.  The product on the ice is solid, and fans will definitely enjoy catching a game in an old-school hockey barn. Extras 3 An extra mark for the School Day event, which was on the day of this review.  The Tigers offer a number of dates for school classes to attend each year. An extra mark for the memorial pictures of Aurora minor hockey players who have passed.  They can be found in the lobby. An extra mark for the on-ice success that the Aurora Tigers have enjoyed. Final Thoughts Taking in an Aurora Tigers game allows hockey fans to step back in time and enjoy an old-time hockey facility that has been maintained well.  The Tigers are a good experience, and the Aurora Community Centre has plenty to explore.  Welcome to the jungle! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  , and Instagram @profan9.

The Intercounty Baseball League has grown in popularity since returning after the COVID shutdown.  In 2025, they reported their third consecutive single-season attendance record with over 218,000 fans attending IBL games in the nine franchises.  The IBL was founded in 1919 and features former MLB players, former professional minor league players, and NCAA athletes.  There have been rumours in 2025 that the league will soon expand to ten teams. In 2025, the Welland Jackfish dominated the regular season, compiling a 31-11 record and earning the regular season pennant.  The Jackfish also boasted the welcoming of over 51,000 fans to Welland Stadium in 2025, averaging 2,450 per game.  The Jackfish completed the trifecta with a convincing 4-1 series win over the Barrie Baycats to take the Dominico Cup as IBL Champions.  Evan Morrison of the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers led the league in hitting with a sizzling .422 batting average.  Jordan Castaldo of the Toronto Maple Leafs led the league with 12 home runs, and Christian Ortega of the Brantford Red Sox led with 42 RBIs.  Owen Boon of the Hamilton Cardinals led the league with a 1.80 ERA, and Frank Garces of the Barrie Baycats tallied 116 strikeouts. In 2025, Stadium Journey provided updated reviews for the London Majors and Hamilton Cardinals.  The IBL rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where writers assess the baseball experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighbourhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment, and any extras that the writers experienced.  The stakes are high, with an average grading of 3.14 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. This list is an opinion, and may not be in agreement for all.  Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets.  How is your list different from ours?  What do we have right?  What do we have wrong? Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2025 Rankings of the Intercounty Baseball League Experiences. 1. Welland Stadium - Welland Jackfish - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - Are they ripples, or are the Welland Jackfish making waves?  A relative newcomer to the over 100-year-old Intercounty Baseball League, at just five years old, the Jackfish are bringing a different approach to the league and demonstrating its potential for success .  After moving to the Niagara city of Welland from Burlington in 2019, the ownership triad of Ryan Harrison, Dan Pokoradi, and Jason McKay decided to take a page out of Jesse Cole’s Savannah Bananas book and build an IBL team differently.  Using the facility to their advantage, arguably the best in the league, the Jackfish have responded with success on the field (2023 Dominico Cup Champions) and success at the turnstile. The home for the Jackfish is Welland Stadium.  Part of the Welland Sports Complex, Welland Stadium has been home to the affiliated Welland Pirates of the New York-Penn League as well as several independent teams.  Built in 1989, the City of Welland-owned stadium provides a backdrop for baseball that is consistent with what is found in the USA for the lower-tier affiliated Minor League teams.  Nicknamed The Pond, Welland Stadium helps provide the Welland Jackfish with the best atmosphere in the IBL. 2. Labatt Memorial Park - London Majors - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - Labatt Memorial Park in London, Ontario has the distinction of being the World’s Oldest Baseball Grounds.  After a bit of an administrative battle with Guiness, the ballpark on the Thames River has had its status confirmed and is now in the Guiness Book of World Records.  Tecumseh Park was built in 1877 for the London Tecumsehs, both named after Sawnee Chief Tecumseh. In 1877, the Tecumsehs played the Boston Red Stockings in London, who would go on to become the Boston Braves, and eventually the Atlanta Braves.  After a major flood in 1936, Labatt Brewing donated $10,000 to renovate the park and acts as a memorial to the founder, originally John Labatt Memorial Athletic Park, which is why the Labatt name remains and has not been changed to the current parent company, Anheuser-Busch InBev.  The London Majors were founded in 1925 as the London Braves and found time over the years as the London Winery, London Silverwoods, London Army Team, London Diamonds, London Pontiacs, London Avcos, London E-Morocco Majors before settling permanently on the London Majors in 1975.  The Majors are currently owned by Scott Dart and Roop Chanderdat and boast 14 IBL Championships, the most recent in 2022.  Former Major League legends Denny McLain and Ferguson Jenkins pulled on a Majors uniform and took the field for a time. 3. Bernie Arbour Memorial Stadium - Hamilton Cardinals - 3.43 Dave Cottenie - With the 2023 Intercounty Baseball League season, the Hamilton Cardinals began a new era.  The purchase of the team by Eric Spearin and his group brought forth a ton of changes.  First and foremost, the identity of the team saw a punch of the reset button with a new, modern logo, which strayed from the traditional St. Louis Cardinals type logo and embraced some of the local lore.  The new hammer-wielding cardinal was not the only change.  A new focus on the fan experience and promotions thrust the team out of the traditional “1919” era (the year that the league was formed).  In 2025, the Cardinals also made a splash, signing 48-year-old, former Major League closer, Fernando Rodney.  The Cardinals have come a long way since their original Hamilton Beaver days.  The team was also known as the Red Wings, Marlins, Real McCoys, and Thunderbirds.  Home for the Cardinals is CARSTAR Field @ Bernie Arbour Memorial Stadium.  Bernie Arbour Stadium, the common reference for the home of the Cardinals, opened in 1970 and was a former home to Minor League Baseball with the Single-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals calling Hamilton home from 1988 to 1992.  The team was known as the Hamilton Redbirds and played in the New York-Penn League. 4. David E. Hastings Stadium - Guelph Royals - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - Taking the field for the first time in 1861 as the Guelph Maple Leafs, and can trace some ownership back to Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame member George Sleeman.  Sleeman also founded Silver Creek Brewery, which was reincorporated by his grandson to become Sleeman Brewery, an iconic cornerstone in Guelph.  In 1919, after a brief hiatus, the Maple Leafs would join the newly founded Intercounty Baseball League with Kitchener, Galt, and Stratford, and go on to win the first three league championships.  After a few name changes, Guelph would settle on the Royals moniker in 1965.  The Royals are currently owned by Shawn Fuller and boast nine league championships.  The home of the Guelph Royals is currently David E. Hastings Stadium.  Located at Exhibition Park, Guelph has played at this particular location since 1925.  The current Hastings stadium has been refurbished numerous times, with the current grandstand opening in 1987.   5. Arnold Anderson Stadium - Brantford Red Sox - 2.86 Dave Cottenie - The city of Brantford, Ontario, is known for hockey and telephones. The home of both Wayne Gretzky and Alexander Graham Bell also boasts some baseball acumen. The Brantford Red Sox of the Intercounty Baseball League are not only the oldest team in the league, but they are also the most decorated. The Red Sox, which share the same name and look as the more famous Major League team, were founded in 1911, a few years before the beginning of the IBL. They would join the league in its third year in 1921. The Red Sox have been a staple in the Brantford community ever since and have rewarded their fans with fifteen league championships, including a record six in a row. 6. Dominico Field @ Christie Pits - Toronto Maple Leafs - 2.86 Dave Cottenie - On January 11, 2022, Toronto lost Jack Dominico after 82 years of life.  Jack was a mainstay at Christie Pits, home of his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs.  The Leafs were founded in 1969 by Dominico and Alan Stanley.  Eventually, the team would be taken over by Jack and his wife, Lynne.  The founding of the Maple Leafs was in response to the Toronto Maple Leafs of Minor League Baseball relocating to Louisville, Kentucky.  Jack was the driving force behind the Maple Leafs, a truly unique experience in big city Toronto, which is a mainstay at Christie Pits Park.  The ball club is a community team that does not sell tickets.  It is free for fans to walk up and stay for a while.  Sundays at 2 o’clock at Christie Pits was Jack’s time.  The impact of Dominico on both the Leafs and the amateur Intercounty Baseball League is so significant that the field at Christie Pits bears his name, as does the league’s championship trophy.   7. Jack Couch Baseball Park - Kitchener Panthers - 2.86 Dave Cottenie - The Kitchener Panthers are one of the founding franchises in the Intercounty Baseball League, which services Southern Ontario. An amateur baseball league featuring collegiate and former professional baseball players, the Intercounty League has shown surprising staying power among the changing landscape of baseball in Canada. Kitchener originally began as the Panthers and played as the Legionnaires and Dutchmen before reverting to the Panthers as the moniker in 1960. Home for the Panthers is Jack Couch Baseball Park. Although not the flashiest of IBL stadiums, it has served its purpose since 1967 and sits on the grounds of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex. The park is named after Jack Couch, who was involved with Kitchener baseball for over 40 years. 8. Athletic Kulture Stadium - Barrie Baycats - 2.86 Dave Cottenie - On the doorstep of Ontario’s Cottage Country, the City of Barrie lays claim to the seven-time Intercounty Baseball League Champion, Barrie Baycats.  An expansion team in 2001, the Baycats stormed the IBL and dominated, winning six championships in a row from 2014 to 2019.  Relatively young compared to the majority of clubs in the Ontario amateur baseball league, the team has fit right in with the rest of the teams and remains competitive in its twentieth season as part of the league.  The home for the Cats is located just outside of the city limits of Barrie in the town of Minesing at the Barrie Community Sports Complex.  Athletic Kulture Stadium is part of the complex and is a fairly simple stadium. 9. Fergie Jenkins Field - Chatham-Kent Barnstormers - 2.71 Dave Cottenie - Chatham, Ontario, is the home of Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Ferguson Jenkins.  Arguably the greatest Canadian baseball player ever, Jenkins’ mark on his hometown is significant.  His link to Chatham baseball is even deeper as his father played for the 1934 Chatham Coloured All-Stars, which became the first black baseball team to win the Ontario baseball championship.  In 2024, baseball in Chatham kicked it up a notch with its entry into the Intercounty Baseball League; the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers.  The name Barnstormers harkens back to the days of Babe Ruth, when the off-season of Major League Baseball saw the biggest stars go on “barnstorming” tours, bringing baseball to smaller towns throughout the country.  Owned by Dom Dinelle and Matt Nahdee, the team has enjoyed success on and off the field in its first season.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4 Impact Field 9850 Balmoral Ave Rosemont, IL 60018 Chicago Dogs website Impact Stadium website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 6,300 Chicago Baseball with All the Mustard The Chicago Dogs are members of the American Association and play at Impact Field, one of the slickest ballparks in independent baseball. It was constructed to entertain all who purchased a ticket as well as host a baseball game. The spacious ballpark has seating for 6,300 and opened on May 25, 2018. The $60-million-dollar facility is the newest addition to the list of independent ballparks in the Chicago area and stands out in color, design, and creativity. Fans will most likely not have to be reminded where they are with motorists on I-294 whizzing by in the distance, the giant Impact Field sign across the parking deck in right field, and a view of the fashion outlet stores behind the outfield walls. However, let’s find out what makes the ballpark one of the better-looking designs in recent years. Food & Beverage 3 The price of concessions is also on par with other independent clubs in the metro area. The menu items are not super electric, but they are what one would expect while enjoying nine innings of baseball. The main concession stand offers jumbo hot dogs, Chicago hot dogs, cheeseburgers, chicken tender baskets, nachos, and soft pretzels. The prices range from $5 to $9. These nachos could feed 1-3 people per order. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. The stadium features The Weiner’s Circle, a much tamer version than the one downtown. It sells its style of char dogs, brats, Polish sausages, and french fries. There is also Salsa, which offers Mexican options, including street tacos and nachos topped with carnitas and chicken. The nachos are large enough for two small kids and are well worth the $10 price. Coca-Cola products are available, and beer options include Miller-Coors brands. A cocktail cart behind the home plate offers mixed drinks of gin, tequila, whiskey, and vodka. Atmosphere 4 Impact Field has a design that is unlike many others in baseball. It features four separate buildings that make up the upper-level suites, party decks, and press box. The colors of metallic black, red, and steel gray offer an amazing combination not found at most baseball stadiums. However, the colors make it stand out from older facilities in the area. Fans enter through the right-field corner of the stadium, which also houses the main ticket booth and official team shop. The team store has plenty of merchandise, from jerseys, caps, t-shirts, and stuffed dolls of the club’s mascots-Squeeze and Ketchup. Squeeze is a bottle of mustard with a big nose and fur; his nemesis, Ketchup, is a bottle of ketchup with an evil smirk in a trench coat. What is shocking is the number of young fans who gather around them waiting for an autograph after they are introduced in the second inning. Squeeze gets the most attention, because mustard, not ketchup, belongs on a hot dog for anyone after the age of 10 years old. Squeeze is a fan favorite at games. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. There are many wonderful aspects of a Dogs game, including a double-sided video board that can be seen by up to 70 million motorists on I-294 on an annual basis. The left-field foul pole is 312 feet from home plate, a nod to the Chicago area code. The right field foul pole is 294 feet from home plate, a nod to the nearby interstate number. The giant car deck serves as a spot for left-handed hitters to bounce homeruns off of it. The ballpark’s name is emblazoned across this area, but there is not too much happening below this area in the right field to the center field concourse. The ballpark also offers high-top tables and chairs in many areas of the concourse, bleacher seating behind the right-field wall, and rail seating above the left-field wall. However, the ample space of Impact Field feels a little bit underutilized at times. Many areas of the ballpark are void of kiosks, party decks, or grass lawn seating. Neighborhood 4 Impact Field is directly across the interstate from the Fashion Outlets of Chicago and a host of other entertainment options before or after the ballgame. The shopping mall features 130 designer outlets that are walkable from the ballpark, but one can also drive and park in the mall’s multi-level parking deck. The area also houses Hofbrauhaus Chicago for liters of beer and German food, Park Tavern, which offers pub food including Cuban sandwiches and hand-cut fries, and Bub City for barbecue. Dave & Buster's is also nearby for video games, large-screen televisions, and pub food options. The Rosemont entertainment district offers a variety of options that include concerts, Zanies Comedy Club, iFLY (skydiving simulator), and the Big Ten interactive experience. Rivers Casino is a few miles north of the district for additional entertainment options. A few local spots south of the ballpark and perhaps a little cheaper on your pockets are Short Fuse Brewing Company, Frannie’s Beef, and Gene and Jude’s. The latter establishment is a local institution that serves depression dogs, loaded with hand-cut fries. You will have to stand up to eat them or enjoy them in your car. Fans 4 The fans at a Dogs game are typical of what you would see at many other ballparks of this kind. They are out to enjoy a night out with friends, family, and co-workers for an inexpensive night out. However, I bumped into one fan who has season tickets with her husband and dresses like a hot dog. She was more than happy to explain her allegiance to the ball club and how she rarely misses a game. Access 5 Impact Field is accessible by both automobile and mass transit. It is located minutes away from O’Hare International Airport. Public transportation includes the CTA Blue Line and the Metra commuter train that stop at the Rosemont station. A free trolley is provided by the Rosemont Entertainment Circulator Trolley that can take you to the ballpark. If traveling by car, the stadium is visible off of I-294, and its exit is just south of the venue. A parking garage is behind the right field and charges $4 a car, but is free if driving a Hyundai. There is additional parking that I have been told is free of charge across the street, but that hasn’t been confirmed. Once inside, the wrap-around concourse provides easy access to all points of the ballpark, and the large outfield terrace area is void of the usual kiosks, seating, and party decks found at other stadiums. Games do not attract near-capacity crowds for most games, and fans can get around efficiently. The main entrance is at the right-field corner of the ballpark. Return on Investment 4 The cost of a ticket will be anywhere from $10 to $17 per game. The bleacher section seating in the right field is an ideal way to enjoy the game for $10. The outfield reserve seats down each baseline are $13, and the infield box seats behind home plate are $17. These prices are on par with a few other independent clubs in Chicagoland. Parking in the garage adjacent to Impact Field is $3 per vehicle (limited availability). Additional parking is available in the Rosemont Entertainment District for a higher fee. The Dogs offer several weekly promotions that include Weiner Wednesday, where hot dogs are a dollar and draft beers are $2.50, Thirsty Thursdays featuring 12-ounce cans are $2, Happy Hour Fridays with live music, and Family Sundays, which offer bottomless popcorn and fountain drinks for $3. Saturday nights are theme nights and conclude with fireworks. Extras 4 The Dogs earn a point for the stadium design that is not from your typical blueprint. It’s sleek, a bit futuristic, and possibly the class of the American Association. The second point is for the two mascots that are almost as popular as the players on the field. Squeeze and Ketchup barely have time to roam around the concourse due to young fans asking for an autograph. The Dog Squad is are group of staff members in red shirts that entertain the fans in between innings, assist fans with on-field promotions, and allow fans to blow a giant air horn from a lifeguard chair behind the backstop on the main concourse. The final point is the $3 parking lot that borders the outfield wall. Final Thoughts Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and pushes the boundary for stadium design and aesthetics. The Chicagoland is a crowd with both major league and MLB partner league ballparks, and the Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. It has the potential to be one of the best in the MLB Partner Leagues. ——— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos courtesy of the UFL On February 15 the newly formed United Football League (UFL)  unveiled its official game ball. The UFL was created by merging the recent incarnations of the United States Football League (USFL) and the XFL.   The new league will begin playing their inaugural season on March 30, 2024 and will feature eight (8) teams from the combined leagues: the defending USFL champion Birmingham Stallions, defending XFL champion Arlington Renegades , DC Defenders , Houston Roughnecks , Memphis Showboats, Michigan Panthers, St. Louis Battlehawks, and San Antonio Brahmas .   The new balls have been designed and are handcrafted to “perform at the highest level,” according to the UFL. Each football is embossed with metallic lettering and has the UFL logo hot-stamped in silver, along with the team markings.   The design of each UFL ball features premium Horween Red 864 top-grain leather and suede ProTack+ lace. According to a release from the UFL, the goal is to: “[reflect] the contemporary look of the UFL brand yet remains authentic to the game of football.”   Big Game Football Factory of Dallas, the largest American-owned football factory in the world, is the company tasked with creating, designing, and building the new balls from start to finish. This year marks the company’s 30th as the industry leader in custom-made footballs.   The official league game ball is available for purchase on the newly launched Shop.theufl.com  and through TheUFL.com . ---- Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by Greg Johnston, Stadium Journey For the second year in a row, the Toronto Argonauts defeated the Saskatchewan Roughriders in front of sold-out crowds on the east coast of Canada. Last year, the Canadian Football League (CFL) “Touchdown Atlantic” game was held in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, which is a small and charming university town along the shores of the Minas Basin. The much anticipated and successful event saw over 10,000 football fans travel to Acadia University’s campus to experience the CFL in Atlantic Canada. This year, the Touchdown Atlantic game was held on the campus of Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. It was clear this event was more than a regular season football game between two of the league’s better teams, it was a showcase event for the continued pursuit of an expansion franchise in the Maritime region. The game was featured on national television, current players and mascots made time to engage with the fans, and former CFL stars including Mike “Pinball” Clemons made the trip to help promote the league. As the CFL attempted to promote the league to the local fanbase, the city also made a huge effort in promoting the Maritimes to the CFL and its traveling fans. Huskies Stadium normally holds a capacity of around 2,000 football fans, far too few to host a professional football game that would be featured on national television. The stadium was expanded to seat over 11,000 people with the use of temporary bleachers. Replicas of a lighthouse and fishing boat put a maritime flare on the outskirts of the field. The lawns that surround the stadium were used for pregame tailgating events, featuring food trucks serving traditional local fare, live music, and family friendly activities (including riding a mechanical shark!). Even the beer that was served was from Church Brewery, a Nova Scotia craft brewery from Wolfville. For an unusually large event in a traditionally small venue, the organizers at Huskies Stadium did a fantastic job planning the event. The campus is situated in a low density neighbourhood, normally resulting in traffic delays. But vehicular traffic flowed with minimal disruption, even though parking was in limited supply. Buses shuttled fans to-and-from major transportation nodes around the city. Once you arrived on campus, several well visible signs and maps guided fans to their appropriate entrance into the stadium. After getting through security, certain fans were given wrist bands to signify the areas of the stadium they were allowed. Fans either had tickets to the temporary bleachers, club tickets, or standing room only tickets which were situated off the south endzone. The matter in which the CFL and the city of Halifax proceed with a potential expansion franchise will be interesting to follow. Prior to the pandemic, citizens of Halifax have been debating whether they want a CFL franchise. Halifax already has a supportive fanbase for its local sports. The Halifax Wanderers currently lead the Canadian Premier Soccer League in attendance by a wide margin, and although the Halifax Thunderbirds of the National Lacrosse League play in the smallest venue in the league, they ranked 8th out of 15 franchises in attendance in 2023. Back in 2018, the ownership group heading the expansion team already named the team the Atlantic Schooners, which was the same name as the defunct CFL franchise in the 1980’s that never played a game. During the Touchdown Atlantic’s halftime show, CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie used a football analogy, saying Halifax is “in the red-zone” regarding gaining an expansion franchise. The CFL currently has nine teams, four of them in the eastern conference. It makes sense for a league with weekly games to have an even number of teams to balance the schedule. The biggest obstacle appears to be a lack of a suitable stadium. Two possible existing stadiums have been discussed for expansion. One is Huskies Stadium, the other is Wanderers Field with a current capacity of around 6,500. Currently the smallest CFL venue is the 20,025-seat Percival Molson Memorial Stadium, home of the Montreal Alouettes. The prospect of a new stadium in Halifax has been discussed prior to the pandemic, but a sparingly used stadium does not appear to be financially viable without other tenants. By the end of the fourth quarter, it was clear Touchdown Atlantic showcased the best in professional football to an area that is - almost - ready for their own team. The game sold out quickly, drew fans locally and attracted visitors to the city. Stay tuned for what comes next for the Atlantic Schooners.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Goodrich Park 705 Chandler Lane Crawfordsville, IN 46250 Wabash College baseball website Goodrich Park website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 500 Have a Good Time at Goodrich Park Wabash College is a private liberal arts men’s college in Crawfordsville, Indiana. It was founded in 1832 by several Dartmouth College graduates and Midwestern leaders. The current student enrollment is around 900, and the campus features a multitude of athletic facilities, including Goodrich Park for its baseball program. The ballpark opened on March 19, 2011, and features permanent seating, a concessions stand, a concourse, press box, dugouts, and a viewing hill behind the right field. The ball club had called Mud Hollow Field home for 50 years before moving into Goodrich, named after John B. Goodrich, a former alumnus, whose family is known through its philanthropy at Wabash and throughout the state. Baseball was first played on November 24, 1866, with a 45-32 victory over Asbury College (now DePauw) on the commons in the south part of town.” Today, the club that plays in the North Coast Athletic Conference has one of the nicer facilities in the conference. The college is known for the annual Monon Bell Classic against DePauw University. The annual football game dates back to 1890 and is among the oldest rivalry games in college football, having met 126 times as of this writing. Food & Beverage 2 The ballpark offers a small sample of baseball treats that include hot dogs, popcorn, peanuts, and soda. The prices are reasonable and make for a nice snack as you enjoy the baseball game. Atmosphere 3 Goodrich Park is a pleasant little place for baseball off the campus of Wabash College. The 500-seat ballpark offers permanent red seats that are situated just four rows down from the concourse, a concession stand, a press box, and a grassy knoll outside the left-field area of the ballpark. Fans on the knoll watch the game from their portable seats, and many will bring their dogs to the game. There are others, mainly students, who provided a bit of a football-tailgate experience with food, drinks, and party games. It was quite different than the garden fans inside the ballpark keeping score and watching the action on the diamond. There are portions of the ballpark named after donors such as the concourse named after Frank and Lisa Kolisek, along with the concession stand and press box. The giant wooden W, which was once on display at the Little Giants old ballpark, is featured predominately at the current stadium. Neighborhood 3 Downtown Crawfordsville is a few miles away from campus and features many spots to enjoy dinner or a drink. A few of the places include Backstep Brewing Company, Brother’s Pizza, Harry’s Hideout, The Barefoot Burger, Alice’s Restaurant, Valentino’s Italian Cuisine, and Arni’s. If with the family, try Arni’s for the kid-friendly environment and thin-crusted pizza. If you are with a few friends or alone, Backstep Brewing Company is the newest place in town for craft beer. It’s located in the old Monon Hotel and offers live entertainment on certain nights. The town also has a couple of places of interest that includes the Rotary Jail Museum and the General Lew Wallace Study & Museum. If the weather is nice, Indiana Zipline Tours are nearby, and the Sugar Creek Trail features a path through the wilderness. Fans 3 Fans inside the ballpark do their share of cheering and keeping score of the game, while the ones on the outside of the ballpark enjoy the game from the comfort of the grassy hill. A few students and alumni are also having an enjoyable time, but perhaps it’s not the baseball that is causing their celebratory mood. Access 4 The stadium is located on the corner of the main road to campus and residential homes. There is parking behind the outfield and along with the street level. The main entrance allows fans access to everything on the concourse. Return on Investment 3 All of the games are free and open to the public. The concession stands are affordable but just enough to enjoy a snack. The school spirit is alive with the fans on the hill, and downtown Crawfordsville is one of those small Indiana towns that is nice to visit on a Saturday afternoon. Extras 2 The ballpark earns a point for the giant W that was taken from the old ballpark now on display on the concourse. The second point is of the hill area where fans enjoy themselves at the game in various forms. Final Thoughts Goodrich Park is a very nice looking ballpark for Division III baseball. It’s a small, little place that offers everything one would want from this level of baseball. However, I would hang out outside the stadium and enjoy the game from the hill. Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and on Instagram .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 TAAG Park 1125 Colonel By Dr Ottawa, ON K1S 5R1 Carleton Ravens football website TAAG Park website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 3,500 The Old Crows Nest MNP Park was renamed TAAG Park in 2022. The Stadium Journey review was written previous to this change and reflects the previous name. Football at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario dates all the way back to 1945. Never a particularly successful team, the Ravens would bring home one Dunsmore Cup in 1985 as champions of the now defunct OQIFC. In 1998, as a cost-cutting measure, the university torpedoed the football program and Carleton walked away from the gridiron. However, a funny thing happened at Carleton in the meantime. The Ravens became wildly successful at basketball. The Ravens are known, first and foremost, for having a legendary men’s basketball program. The success that the Ravens saw on the basketball court, helped inspire the athletic department to do something drastic … expand. A group of former Ravens football players and Carleton Alumni banded together to form Old Crows Football Inc., a not-for-profit entity operating in partnership with the university to fully fund a new football program. After a number of years, the Old Crows were successful and in 2013, the Carleton Ravens football team took the field once more, reborn. Home for the Ravens is on campus, in what is essentially the athletic quadrant of Carleton. MNP Park was built in 1998 for the Ravens soccer teams. Originally known as Keith Harris Stadium, named after the former Ravens Athletic Director of thirty years, MNP Park received a significant renovation to make it suitable for football. MNP LLP, a Canadian accounting firm, purchased the naming rights for the stadium in 2015 and the Ravens are one of the few programs that employs a naming rights deal for their on campus stadium. Carleton has played well in their second life, but it has been the rekindling of their rivalry with the Ottawa Gee-Gees and the Panda Game which has given a serious boost to the program. The annual clash, which takes place at TD Stadium, the local CFL Stadium, has become the preeminent football game in USports, even outdrawing the National Championship game, the Vanier Cup. Food & Beverage 2 Concession options at MNP Park are not spectacular. Fans will be able to find a couple of options which are good for a sack or a light meal. There is a food truck on the premises which sells burgers, hot dogs, fries and poutine. The other option is a more permanent concession area which offers basic snacks and drinks. This stand does offer alcoholic beverages for purchase as well. Atmosphere 2 MNP Park is not atypical for an OUA football facility in that it was built on a budget and functionality is at the forefront. There is very little of the exterior of MNP Park that stands out. The Ravens put out a couple of signs welcoming fans in both English and French. However, there isn’t much in the way of signage bringing attention to the facility. In fact, the fieldhouse which is across the parking lot commands much more attention. Upon entering the stadium, fans will immediately notice the steel grandstand and the underside, which is essentially used for storage. The grandstand is fairly standard with a full slate of bleacher seating and three separate coaching and media boxes at the top. On the opposite side of the grandstand there is some berm seating. The field runs from north to south and is a synthetic playing surface, which is standard for the OUA. A plaque explaining the history of former Athletic Director, Keith Harris, and his contributions to the Carleton Ravens, still graces the south end of the grandstand. The southeast corner features a standard scoreboard and the rest of the field is surrounded by mature trees. The game day production at a Ravens game is a relatively simple one. There are a couple of bells and whistles, however. The Ravens mantra is recited over the PA and the team comes charging out of a large, inflatable, football helmet in the south end zone to begin the game. Some simple fireworks and pyro help welcome the Ravens and signal a Ravens score. The PA announcer is fairly laid back, yet still professional and does not over work the crowd or run music through every stoppage in play, which is a refreshing change. Overall, there are plenty of areas in which Carleton could spruce up MNP Park and take the facility to the next level. Neighbourhood 5 Ottawa is a tremendous tourist destination. Carleton University is not far from the eclectic neighbourhood known as The Glebe and a short drive from what is commonly known as downtown Ottawa. There are not a ton of interesting options within walking distance, but fans can find plenty of spots within a short ten minute drive. Mike’s Place Pub and Oliver’s Pub and Patio are the on campus pubs and may be of interest. Other places to consider would be the famous Elgin Street Diner, Craft Beer Market, Joey Lansdowne, The Rowan and Irene’s Pub. As far as other entertainment options within Ottawa, there are a ton. Ottawa is full of museums including the Museum of Nature, the Canadian Mint, Museum of Aviation and Museum of Civilization. However, no trip to Ottawa can be complete without seeing the Parliament Buildings and the Canadian War Museum. Timing a trip to Ottawa correctly can bring with it the opportunity to skate on the Rideau Canal, which Ottawa is famous for. There are also plenty of sporting options for fans visiting Canada’s Capital. Carleton also fields very successful basketball programs, which play at the Ravens’ Nest and hockey programs which play at the Carleton Ice House. The cross-town rival for the Ravens is the Ottawa Gee-Gees. UOttawa also fields football, basketball and hockey teams which can be found at Gee-Gees Field, Monpetit Hall and Minto Sports Complex, respectively. The Glebe is where Landsdowne Park can be found and TD Place Stadium and TD Place Arena are on the park grounds. The stadium his home to the Panda Game and the Ottawa RedBlacks of the CFL. TD Place Arena is the home of the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s . Further away from downtown is Canadian Tire Centre, where the Ottawa Senators of the NHL play. Fans 4 The return of the Carleton Ravens to the gridiron has been well received by sports fans in Ottawa. It can be difficult at times to accurately gage attendance for OUA football games. The attendance will fluctuate usually between 1,000 and 3,000. The game that was reviewed was the O-Week game and full of first year Carleton University students. Where Carleton has gone above and beyond is their support, along with the University of Ottawa, for the Panda Game. The annual clash is now the premier event in all USports football and has been sold out in the 24,000 seat TD Place Stadium. Access 3 Getting around Ottawa can definitely be a challenge. The downtown especially can be some tough travelling by car, however, the campus of Carleton is a sufficient distance from Parliament that the traffic isn’t terrible. The closest highway access is highway 417, which is north of the campus. A small drive through the city isn’t terrible. There is plenty of parking available on campus near MNP Park. There are times when parking can be found free of charge. Keep an eye on the signs near parking meters for free parking hours. Ottawa public transit also drives right into the Carleton University Campus including the O-Train on campus and buses on Bronson Ave. Fans should check out the OC Transpo website for fares, schedules and maps. Once curious part of the Carleton experience is that the ticket tent is on the other side of security, essentially inside MNP Park. This is not a terrific setup and the lineups can be significant waiting for tickets or will-call. Getting around the stadium is not an issue as it is pretty wide open and the single grandstand makes moving around simple. Unfortunately, the biggest drawback of MNP Park is a distinct lack of running water. Washroom facilities consist of portable toilets and hand washing stations, which are not terrific. The next step in the evolution of the former Keith Harris Stadium should be some permanent washroom and locker room facilities. Return on Investment 4 OUA football offers tremendous value for sports fans in the Ottawa area. A ticket for Ravens football will go for $20 and those eligible for discounts will pay $15. The product on the field is solid for the Ravens and fans will enjoy the experience. A better facility with washrooms would push the return on investment higher as fans are going to have to endure some discomfort. Extras 3 An extra mark for the successful return of the Ravens to OUA football after a lengthy absence. An extra mark for the top rivalry in USports football and premiere event in the Panda Game. The annual clash against the Ottawa Gee-Gees played at TD Place Stadium is now an even bigger event than the Vanier Cup itself. An extra mark for the Old Crows whose determination and hard work made the return of Carleton Ravens football a reality. Final Thoughts A trip to see the Carleton Ravens is well worth the time and effort. USports football continues to be an underrated experience which more fans, outside of the university community, should experience. Here’s hoping that improvements can continue at MNP Park and the improvement of the Ravens experience continues to rise. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

Each summer millions of Americans flock to one of the 30 MLB stadiums to enjoy a baseball game. Their attention, for the most part, is on the players from both teams on the field. However, there is a much larger team operating behind the scenes to ensure that fans have a fun time at the ballpark and that their respective teams are playing at their top performance level. Working at the Ballpark by Tom Jones explores the many functions people perform at the ballpark to enhance the fan experience and their team’s chances of delivering a win for the home team He does this through interviews with a wide variety of players, staff and the media. Chapters explore the front office, the dugout, the field of play, the bullpen, the stands, the electronic and print media, and the clubhouse. The Mover’s and Shakers chapter looks at the front office of several clubs and includes conversations with owners, general managers, and directors of player personnel. It also features a discussion with a principal in the architectural firm of HOK Sports on how the fan experience is central to the design of the ballpark. The In the Dugout section looks at the role of the manager, the various specialty coaches and the trainer in putting the best team possible on the field each night. The Field of Play chapter features several players, an umpire, and a ballboy and gives readers an overview of the gameday schedule, which begins several hours before the first pitch. This includes watching tape on the opposing team, batting practice, and strategy sessions with the coaches. The unique world of the relief pitcher is covered in the Bullpen section of the book. It features conversations with the bullpen coach and members of the relief staffs of many teams. The In the Stands section focuses on the many ways that teams focus on the fan experience. The ticketing staff discusses the ins and outs of choosing the best seats available for the fan, while an usher discusses their role in guiding the fans to their seats, as well as being a point of contact for any questions a fan might have about the location of a stadium amenity. A peanut vendor and a beer vendor discuss their roles in the very important area of fan concessions. The Eyes and Ears chapter discusses the role of media in the stadium experience. It includes conversations with a beat writer, a sports columnist, and a sports talk show host. The section also looks at the in-game staff which includes the scoreboard operator, the public address announcer, and the official scorekeeper. The closing chapter of Working at the Ballpark explores the many supporting roles staff plays in the fan experiences. A member of the community affairs department discusses the role the team plays in the nonprofit world. The director of merchandising shares how they create new products each season to meet the fan demand for the latest apparel and other team products.   This chapter also covers the important role of support staff in working on team needs. The clubhouse manager is a jack of all trades, as they are responsible for feeding the players before and after the game, doing the laundry, as well as preparing the clubhouse for the next game. The head groundskeeper discusses the ins and outs of having the field in the best possible condition for each game. The Director of Team Travel shares his many tasks for road trips, including reserving planes, making hotel arrangements in the visiting city, and making sure buses are available to pick up and deliver the team to the stadium, the hotel, and the airport. Tom Jones provides fans with unique insights on all the staff necessary to put on a major league game. His use of conversations with the people who fill these roles gives a real authenticity to his narrative. We think any true baseball fan will enjoy Working at the Ballpark and its behind-the-scenes look at a day at the ballpark.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It is that time of year again when hockey teams from across multiple leagues hold their annual Teddy Bear Toss, with all proceeds going to local charities. Fans bring and toss a stuffed animal onto the ice after the home team scores, resulting in a stoppage of play and thousands of cute stuffed toys spread on the ice. I went to my first one this week, and it was everything as advertised. The Indy Fuel of the ECHL has been hosting their teddy bear toss for ten seasons, and the game usually sells out for the holiday event. Many arrive early carrying handfuls of stuffed animals, some with plastic bags stretched behind their backs and a few more double-fisting a bag full of stuffed bears. Once inside the lobby, it is overflowing with fans with tables set up with several stuffed animals for those who came unprepared and others picking up tickets at the box office window.  The holiday crowd brought out Santa Clause, who did not have to go through the metal detectors, as he sat down on his chair next to a live reindeer and took pictures with little boys and girls. Once inside the seating bowl of the Indiana Farmers Coliseum, teddy bears the size of a small child took up seats against the windows. It was hard to spot a fan without a cuddly toy on their lap or in their hands. The densely crowded concourse was full of fans making their way to their seats in honorable fashion. You could see many grabbing a bite to eat or a drink while having someone in their party hold on to the stuffed bear. If you were a fan of people-watching, this was the night to do so at the hockey game. Finally, the face-off and the game commence against the Kalamazoo Wings. Each time a Fuel player skated towards the net, the crowd erupted with anticipation. The sound grew louder when a shout took place and deflected off the goalie’s stick or pad.  The game went back and forth with multiple shots on the net, a few hits against the boards, and several shots off the mark. The crowd wanted a goal, the public announcer wanted a goal, and I wanted a goal sitting on the top concourse of the building. Finally, at 8:17 in the first period, the goal horn and light went off, and the teddy bears rained down from the seating bowl. Suddenly, the Christmas music piped over the sound system, and it was time to celebrate. The stuffed dolls came from the upper and lower decks and flipped over the glass gingerly. I rushed down to the ice to get a shot of the teddy bears falling to the rink, and they were still raining down onto the rink. Accumulations of stuffed dolls clumped together off the sticks of hockey players. Staff members were pushing 64-gallon garbage bins to retrieve the stuffed animals. Others, like me, walked on the ice to take photo ops of fans, players, employees, and many others having fun during the timeout of the game. Fuel players jumped in to help throw dolls into the trash bin while K-Wings players hung out and waited through at least a second teddy bear toss scene this season; they had their own on November 26. The Fuel mascot, Nitro, attempted to assist, but he was having more fun waving to the crowd. A plethora of stuffed dolls were placed on a tarp off the ice and whisked away by 2 or 3 crew members to an area for counting. After around 20 minutes, the teddy bears were ready to count. A few staff members couldn’t resist and jumped into the massive pile as if they were school children jumping into a pile of leaves. Then, an announcement over the speakers that the goal did not count, much to the chagrin of many in the building. However, it didn’t matter; they saw what they had purchased a ticket to see--the annual teddy bear toss. It was the last event of its kind at the Coliseum. Next year, the Fuel will relocate 14 miles from Fishers, Indiana, to the 8,000-seat Fishers Entertainment Center.  After a meticulous count, there was a total of 5,875 stuffed animals that landed on the ice. It was a bump from last year’s total of 5,395 - but not as much as the Hershey Bears record of 67,309 last season. It is a tradition that began 30 years ago in Kamloops, British Columbia when Blazers fans threw 2,400 bears onto the ice for a game. The tradition has spread to other parts of the world, from Europe to Australia. It is a mainstay in the ECHL and other leagues in Canada and the United States. The fans enjoy a packed house at the game; the atmosphere is full of holiday spirit, and a teddy bear is donated to several local charities. There are several teddy bear toss games scheduled at a local hockey area in the minor or junior leagues of North America. Visitors should be on the lookout for their chance to bring in a stuffed doll and toss it onto the ice when appropriate.  It is that time of the year again to give back to the community. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Benjamin Evensen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Beasley Coliseum 225 N Grand Ave Pullman, WA 99164 Washington State Cougars website Beasley Coliseum website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 12,058 Lacking in Pullman Located in the southeast corner of Washington in the Palouse region, a few minutes from the Idaho border sits Washington State University in Pullman. A Pac-12 school of 19,756 at the main Pullman campus, the Cougars men’s and women’s basketball teams play at the Beasley Coliseum on campus which seats 11,671. It was opened in 1973 and is named for Wallis Beasley, a sociology professor and executive vice president who died in 2008. The first game at Beasley Coliseum was an exhibition game between the NBA’s Seattle SuperSonics and Portland Trail Blazers. The first Cougar men’s game was in 1973 against LSU. It has played host to the NCAA Tournament three times, hosting sub-regionals in 1975, 1982, and 1984, while teams such as UCLA, Michigan, Georgetown, and Duke participated in, top-15, for those years. Overall, Beasley Coliseum is a nice venue that has a good atmosphere when the team is winning. That isn’t happening much these days though, and today Beasley Coliseum is a very good, but not great, college basketball arena. Food & Beverage 4 The food options are not lacking in selection, and while the prices are not overly high for a sporting event, they certainly are not low. Hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, candy, Coke products, and popcorn are all in the $3-$6 range, while special food items like sandwiches and pizza are a bit more. If the prices were a little lower a 5-star rating would be awarded, but for now, it receives a 4-star. Atmosphere 1 The team isn’t winning and has not had much success at all in quite some time, but you would expect so much more for a Saturday game against a top-15 conference opponent (this game was against #13 Utah). The arena had no more than 3,000 people and the student section was almost non-existent. More fans will come with wins, but for this type of game and the atmosphere that was there, it was pitiful. Neighborhood 3 The arena isn’t close to much walking-wise except for student housing and dorms, and if you drive into downtown Pullman you will find a good amount of restaurants and bars in this college town. Nearby Moscow, Idaho, about a ten-minute drive, is full of restaurants and bars as well. There just is almost nothing for miles and miles outside of Pullman and Moscow, and not many places to go from there. Fans 1 Much like I explained in the atmosphere section, the fans are lacking in attendance and noise. There isn’t anything positive about the fans at Cougar basketball games as of late. Access 2 Pullman is a very isolated town with not much near it. About a 2-hour drive from Spokane, a 4-hour drive from Seattle, and a 5-hour drive from Boise on two-lane highways. During brutal winter conditions, it can be dangerous. There is a small regional airport that comes from Seattle, Spokane, and Lewiston, Idaho if you wish to fly into Pullman. Parking isn’t ideal near the arena and it may require high pries or walk from a distance. Return on Investment 4 The prices for Cougar games are not that bad, with upper deck tickets around $10 and lower bowl tickets around $25 and up. Some games will charge more when it is a marquee opponent like the University of Washington. Overall though, the price of admission is worth the game. Extras 2 If you like seeing colleges, head over the Moscow, ID just a few minutes away to see the University of Idaho. Martin Stadium is also right across the street 2-hour4-hour Beasley Coliseum. Otherwise, there 5-hourthe fromaren’t too many extras. Final Thoughts Overall, Beasley Coliseum is a nice arena, but while the team is doing so poorly the venue is empty and very unenergetic. With team success, it is not a bad arena by any means to see a Pac-12 basketball game.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 CCBC Dundalk Gymnasium 7200 Sollers Point Rd Baltimore, MD 21222 CCBC Dundalk Lions website CCBC Dundalk Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 1,500 Lions At The Gym One of the largest colleges in Maryland is largely unknown outside of the Baltimore area. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) has an annual enrollment of greater than 72,000 students. Created in the 1990s by a merger of Essex Community College, Dundalk Community College, and Catonsville Community, the new college kept each of those three main campuses, along with a bevy of extension campuses around the suburban Baltimore area. The three colleges shared a common board of trustees for years, but operated independently. Essex, Dundalk, and Catonsville have each kept their own distinct athletic identity. CCBC Dundalk began in 1970. The school mascot is the Lions and they play three sports total. Dundalk won the NJCAA Division II national championship for basketball in 2000. They are a member of Region XX of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference, The Gymnasium is located within the larger Dundalk Wellness & Athletics Center. Food & Beverage 1 There are limited food options as well as some snack machines. We attended the game as part of a larger multi school "mixer" so we are unsure if food is for sale at all games. The food table was located on the lower level and had mainly snacks and drinks. Atmosphere 1 There is not much else in terms of the atmosphere at the Gymnasium. There are some simple PA announcements and some music played from a small speaker. The basketball court is a rubberized surface and not the preferred hardwood court. There is only one grandstand in the gymnasium. The bottom half has plastics seats and the upper stands has wood seats. Neighborhood 3 CCBC Dundalk is a suburban community college with its main neighbor being the Dundalk High School and Sollers Point Technical High School. One of my favorite places to eat in the area is Squire's Italian Restaurant, which has a large menu of offerings. Their pizza is well known in the area. Fans 2 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few residents who attend the games. Access 4 CCBC Dundalk is located not far off of the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) via Merritt Boulevard. Please note that the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was part of I-695, could make getting to the field from the south a little more difficult. You will need to use one of the Baltimore tunnels instead. There is plenty of free parking on the campus. If classes are in session you may expect to park a bit further away from campus. Return on Investment 5 The games are usually free to attend, although the "mixer" was charging a nominal $5. Even if you have to pay that small amount, it is worth it. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level JUCO program at no cost. . Extras 2 There are a few plaques around the Dundalk Wellness & Athletics Center that honor student-athletes from Dundalk's years passed. Walk around campus and see the solar panels that have been added to many parking areas on campus. All of the CCBC campuses have added these and expect to get more than a quarter of their electricity from solar. This 5.1-megawatt project is expected to generate 6.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year and joins the 16.1-megawatt array at Mount St. Mary’s University in an effort by local colleges to expand solar usage. Final Thoughts The CCBC Dundalk Gymnasium is a simple affair but serves as a decent, albeit simple, venue for intercollegiate sports.

1998 Olympic Hockey Gold Medal winner and Isobel Cup champion executive Colleen Coyne joins us to discuss the past, present and future of women's hockey.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio   wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Tuesday at 7 PM Eastern at danlaw.tv .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center East Summit St. Kent, OH 44242 Kent State Golden Flashes website Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 6,327 High Voltage MACC Mania It’s unfortunate that Kent State is most known for the tragedy that happened in 1970 with the shootings by the Ohio National Guard. A decent sized university established in 1910, Kent State is located just south of Cleveland in the college town of Kent, Ohio. With over 30,000 students, Kent State University is a significant member of the Mid-American Conference, where they have been a member since 1951, just five years after the founding of the conference. The Golden Flashes have a number of distinguished alumni including baseball legend Thurman Munson, football great Jack Lambert and golfer Ben Curtis. However, basketball at Kent State should not take a back seat to football, golf nor tragedy. The Golden Flashes have slowly grown to a strong team in the conference winning the MAC Tournament in 1999, 2001, 2002, 2006 and 2008. Those same years the Golden Flashes made appearances in the NCAA tournament. The regular season MAC title was also won by Kent State in 2002, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2015. All this sounds great, however it was the 2002 Kent State team that tops them all. In 2002, the Golden Flashes made it all the way to the Elite Eight, the best showing in Kent State history. Entering the tournament as a 10 seed, the Golden Flashes would go on to upset number 7, Oklahoma State, number 2 Alabama and number 3 Pitt. The home for the Golden Flashes is the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center. Built in 1950, the MAC Center has seen the ups and downs of Kent State basketball and is a great spot to catch some basketball MACtion. With a capacity of 6,327 the MAC Center is just the right size for basketball in this conference. Named in honor of students and alumni who gave their lives in World War II, the MAC Center remains a living memorial in an age of corporate and large donor naming rights. The Golden Flashes demand energy from their fans and High Voltage is on the menu and MACC Mania is required for Kent State basketball. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center are about what you would expect for an NCAA basketball venue of this size. Concessions are decent, but will definitely not blow fans away. The main concession stands offer hot dogs ($3), chilli cheese dogs, burgers, grilled chicken, sausage, nachos, popcorn ($3/$5), chips and pretzels among other things. Although the selection is decent, the variety will definitely not overwhelm fans with options. Alcohol is not sold at the concessions. Pepsi products are the featured soda ($3). Coffee, hot chocolate and other non-alcoholic beverages are also available. Although the selection isn’t massive, concession prices are pretty good with all items coming in under $5. Atmosphere 4 The Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center is a great place to catch a college basketball game. Approaching the MAC Center, fans will notice that this venue has been improved and upgraded over time. The original brown brick structure is still intact, but a newer grey stone, pillared entrance and foyer immediately greet fans. Large banners request fans to “Power Up” and let them know that “Home Is Where the Hype Is” and add colour and life to the exterior. The main foyer is large and bright and when fans pass through security, they are immediately greeted by a large inflated Golden Flash mascot. Lots of natural light gives the foyer light and makes it seem like a venue that is at a much larger, more prestigious basketball school. Clean and bright tile and a couple of mosaic tile pieces of artwork on pillars add more life to the building. The concourses feature a number of historic pictures and artifacts, which help outline the history of Golden Flashes basketball, among other sports. Upon entry to the main gymnasium, fans will be struck with the coziness of the seating area. The court runs from southwest to northeast with seating behind either basket and two levels of southeast and northwest grandstands. Fans have the opportunity to choose a variety of types of seating. The upper grandstands feature old wooden benches on both sides. The lower northwest grandstand has contoured plastic benches while the lower southeast grandstand has plastic chair seating. The southeast side is where fans want to be for that perfect picture of the center court logo. Surprisingly, there are some windows at the top of the grandstands which allow natural light to bleed into the main playing area. The upper southwest side of the court also features some glassed in, club seating. Above center court is the scoreboard which is pretty simple, but there are some video boards in the north and south corners of the gym. Above the northwest banners are the Golden Flashes championship banners from their appearances in the NCAA tournament and NIT as well as their MAC tournament and regular season championships. At the southwest end of the gym proudly hangs the Golden Flashes greatest basketball achievement, their 2002 Elite 8 banner. Beside that are the honoured numbers of Andrew Mitchell, Trevor Huffman, Demetric Shaw and Antonio Gates, all of whom were members of the 2002 team. The number of 2002 team member Eric Thomas is also honored, however, due to some significant legal troubles, Kent State has removed his banner. The game day production is what you would expect from a MAC school. The Kent State pep band plays in the southwest grandstand, behind the basket, and adds that college feel to the game. The northeast side of the gym features an in-house DJ who is clearly secondary to the band. The expected flag wavers and cheerleaders are also part of the game day experience. The Kent State mascot, Flash the Golden Eagle, roams the stands and courtside, interacting with fans, especially kids. Neighborhood 4 The Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center is located on the center-west side of the Kent State University campus. The closest major street to the MACC would be Summit Street, however, this is not the best spot to find pre or postgame fare. The best idea is to head north to Main Street, where fans will find a variety of establishments. There are a plethora of well-known chain franchises on Main, heading west towards Haymaker Parkway. There are also a few unique options that fans may want to consider. These include Main Street Continental Grill, Rockne’s Pub and 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall. Kent being a small university town means there are not a ton of options for other entertainment nearby. Kent State does offer a full program of athletics, the most prominent of which is football played at Dix Stadium . Dix is quite a distance east of the main campus. Baseball is also played at Kent State during the spring months at Schoonover Stadium . For fans with a bit of an artistic side, the Kent State Art Gallery and Kent State University Museum are on campus. Also, the center of campus features a May 4th Memorial and May 4th Visitor’s’ Center for those who wish to learn more about the 1970 tragedy. There are a couple of places to stay that are not too far from the Kent State campus. Fans may wish to try the Kent State University Hotel or the nearby Holiday Inn. Fans 4 Although Kent State may not be known for preeminence in basketball, the Golden Flashes do lay claim to a pretty solid following. The Golden Flashes average more than 3,500 fans per game. This figure gives them a solid hold on third place for average attendance in the conference and are also above the MAC average for attendance. The fans in attendance are knowledgeable and passionate and the keep the noise level at a decent decibel. The seating behind the baskets is for the students. At the game that was reviewed, the student section was not overwhelming and not over the top. There was definitely some room for improvement from the students. Access 4 The town of Kent is located north of I-76. The campus of Kent State University is located pretty much central to Kent. For fans arriving from out of town, they will have to traverse some of the town of Kent to make it to campus. However, for basketball events, this does not seem too difficult and traffic is not over the top. Free parking is located in the lot on the opposite side of Summit Street. For fans who wish to get a little closer to the MACC, there is some pay parking available on campus, closer to the arena. Fans who wish to get to Kent State via public transit are in luck. The PARTA transit system runs all through the Kent State campus. Check out the Portage Area Regional Transit Authority website for maps, fares and schedules. The main ticketing and entry gate at the MACC is found to the south of the building, at the newer foyer entrance. Ticketing windows are outside and lineups are not too bad. On a cold day, the entry to the main foyer can get pretty tight for fans who are waiting for the gates to open and want to escape the cold. Getting around the arena is not too difficult. The upper and lower levels of the main foyer offer fans space to get around and the concourses on the southeast and northwest sides of the court may be a little narrow, but are not terrible considering the attendance. Washroom facilities are on the small side, but are adequate for this venue. Return on Investment 5 Mid-American Conference basketball is one of the real bargains in the NCAA. Tickets for Golden Flashes basketball range from $12 to $35. Ticket prices, expectedly, increase for the rivalry game against Akron. Kent State students are free to get in. Considering the cost of tickets, decent concession prices and free parking, Kent State basketball does not require a huge investment for an afternoon or evening’s entertainment. The product on the court is also underrated and in fact, the game that was reviewed was tremendously exciting, against a conference rival, and went into overtime. All-in-all, Kent State basketball offers just about everything a fan could ask for considering the low investment required. Extras 3 Two extra marks for the interaction of players and fans. On the game that was reviewed, players went into the stands and invited children to come on the court for the National Anthem as they stood arm in arm. An extra mark for the May 4th Memorial and Kent State’s treatment of the 1970 tragedy. Final Thoughts The Kent State Golden Flashes and their home at the Memorial Convocation and Athletic Center offer basketball fans the opportunity to experience a great NCAA basketball environment for a decent cost. Although probably not a college basketball bucket list experience, Kent State should definitely be considered when sports fans are in the area and looking for something to take in. If catching some Golden Flashes basketball, fans are to be warned that MACC Mania is in the house and High Voltage is to be expected. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

Tonight we are joined by Tim Parks, the founder of the Major League Baseball Ballpark Passport Program, a product which helps fans chronicle their ballpark travels. Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Tuesday night at 7PM eastern at danlaw.tv .

Photos by Golf Digest and Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Grand Bear Golf Course 12040 Grand Way Blvd Saucier, MS 39574 Rapiscan Systems Classic website Grand Bear Golf Course website Year Opened: 1999 Golfing at the Grand Bear The Mississippi Gulf Coast is filled with tons of entertainment options to please everyone of all ages. From high rise casinos and top name shows, to world class fishing and water options, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has it all. With plenty to do, and millions of tourists visiting the Coast each year, it’s no surprise that the area also features plenty of golfing options. Thirteen professional designed 18-hole golf courses are spread out throughout the three coastal counties. With such beautiful golf courses, and warm year-round weather, it’s no surprise that the Gulf Coast has attracted the eyes of the PGA Tour. Since 2010 the area has played host to the Rapiscan Systems Classic of the PGA Champions Tour (Rapiscan Systems is a company that specializes in X-ray machines and airport screening devices, with a manufacturing plant in nearby Ocean Springs, MS). Formerly the PGA Senior Tour, this tournament brings in the top golfers in the world over the age of 50. For the first 10 years the tournament was held at the nearby Fallen Oak Golf Club, but beginning in 2022 the tournament is held at Grand Bear Golf Club, located off Highway 49 just north of Gulfport. Opened in 1999, the Jack Nicklaus designed course has been ranked by Golf Digest as one of the Top 5 of Best Golf Courses in the state multiple years since opening. Food & Beverage 4 When you arrive at the Grand Bear you are dropped off at the main club house. Around here is where all the food tents and grandstands are located. The clubhouse restaurant, the Grand Bear Grill & Bar, is open to the public, although it was packed out at any given time. The menu is kind of expensive but includes a breakfast and lunch menu. The breakfast menu consists of a loaded omelet ($9) or breakfast sandwich or burrito ($8), or if you are really hungry you can try the Tee Time Plate, which includes two eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, hashbrowns, and toast for $10. The lunch menu consists of shrimp po’ boys ($15), loaded nachos ($14), Philly cheesesteak ($14), Grand Bear Club sandwiches ($14), wings ($12), or grilled chicken wraps, club house salads, chicken quesadillas, and chicken tenders ($11 for any of the last four). Depending on what ticket package you purchase determines the score for the Food and Beverage section. The most expensive package is the $275 a day Marina Cantina Club, a temporary structure with a boating theme located on the 18th green. This air-conditioned upscale hospitality tent features great views of the final hole, while you also get a free seafood spread and plenty of cold drinks. Next to the Cantina Club is the smaller Corona Premiere Patio, another temporary structure constructed on the 9th green with excellent views. The Corona Patio has a full service menu and bar, and you are welcomed with one free beer upon entry. The Corona Patio tickets are $40 a day, which isn’t bad considering the views and food options you get. Also, as the Gulf Coast has a strong military presence, they have the Patriot’s Pavilion right next to the Corona Patio; the former is free to military members and a cool little spot for military personnel to hang out. For patrons who purchase general admission tickets there are two tents set up called the Bear’s Den near all the scaffolds and temporary structures. The options are limited here with Wagyu burgers ($12), sausage dogs ($10), and egg salad sandwiches ($6). There are also four temporary stands set up on the course, two on the front nine at Holes 2 and 7, and two on the back nine near holes 11 and 16. The concessions stands on the course itself sell southwest salads ($12), chicken salad sandwiches, egg salad sandwiches, veggie wraps ($10 each for the last three), hot dogs ($6), or PB&J sandwiches ($4). Some of the stands have long lines of people getting drinks, as it is usually a hot and humid day. Drinks are kind of expensive as well, with 24 oz bottles of Coke products, Powerade and Dasani bottled water selling for $5 each. Lots of people were drinking beer though, as for only a dollar more ($6) more you can get a 12 oz canned beer (Miller Lite, Corona, or Modelo), and Crown Royal in a can for $10. Atmosphere 4 The Grand Bear is located inside DeSoto National Forest, a 518,000-acre protected forest and the largest section of completely undeveloped land in South Mississippi. There isn’t much around the course – there are no fancy communities or neighborhoods surrounding it. Instead, you are one with nature as the course is designed to take golfers through Mississippi’s most natural and elusive habitats. As you travel in on the winding two lane road, you almost feel like you are headed out to a hunting camp rather than attending a PGA event. The main gathering area is around the clubhouse set up between the 10th tee pad and the 18th green. This is where you will find all the food and vendor tents. Many sponsors have tents set up giving out samples and such. The Cantina Club and Corona Premier Patio are located here as well, with skybox suites and elevated platforms with great views of the 18th green. The clubhouse is also open, so you are free to walk around the pro shop, which usually has a nice 40% sale going on. One cool thing about the clubhouse that ties into the area is it looks like a hunting lodge or ski resort from the outside. Once inside the Jack Nicklaus, the Golden Bear logo is on everything, from the interior and wooden floors to the walls made out of replica oak trees – if you are familiar with golf it won’t take long to tell who designed this golf course. Also the course is designed to look like a giant bear paw from above, so if flying into Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport you can see the giant bear paw carved out of the forests below you. Outside the clubhouse is the driving range on the north side and a practice putting green on the south side. Many of the golfers can be seen getting a few practice shots in before their tee times, and some of them were even talking to the patrons. As you walk the cart path it is basically one long nature trail. There are wooden bridges over creeks, lookout points, and side trails you can take to view all of south Mississippi’s natural wildlife. At any given time you can catch a glimpse of the many bald eagles, ospreys, sandhill cranes, and other large birds that live on the course, while deer, alligators, black bears, and foxes have all been spotted roaming on or near the course from time to time. The views of the golf course are absolutely stunning as well. The back 9 cut through the woods, with longer holes and wide-open fairways that split between 100-year-old oak trees and 100-foot-tall pine trees. The Biloxi River winds through the front 9 with a lot of shorter holes; the winding river has wide elevated banks and sandbars that come into play on a few holes. There are even a few times when golfers have to tee off over the sandbars on the river – holes 6, 7, 8 and 9 run directly parallel to the water, while a creek runs through the back 9, including a pretty cool hanging bridge between holes 13 and 14. As the Tournament takes place every year in early April, expect great weather and really nice temperatures as well. Neighborhood 2 The Grand Bear Golf Club is located in the middle of nowhere; in fact the nearest signs of civilization are an Exxon gas station and a Mexican restaurant on Highway 49 over 15 miles away. Because of this there is no neighborhood whatsoever, just miles and miles of woods and natural forests. The nearest town to the Grand Bear is the town of Saucier, just north of the golf course – this small community of 1,300 is most famous for being the setting for the 2004 Tom Hanks movie “The Ladykillers”, but there is not much here. However, you are about a 40-minute drive from the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast, and you should be able to find plenty to do there for all ages. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is an extremely popular gaming destination, often called the Vegas of the South. The coast features 14 high rise casinos offering plenty of options for entertainment, restaurants, or lodging. The Rapiscan Systems Classic’s main headquarters for the week are located at the Island View Casino/Hotel in Gulfport, so that hotel has group rates and discounts for people attending the tournament. The Island View also hosts many off-course events during the week, such as a dinner for the golfers and media personnel. While on the coast no trip would be complete without trying out the local seafood – from 5-star restaurants at the casinos, to local hole-in-the-wall restaurants, the Gulf Coast has plenty of places to have you covered if you are hungry. Fans 4 A PGA stop usually attracts a mix of all kinds of people. The best way to describe it is a perfect social gathering without the ability to get out of hand. Many of the patrons are relaxed and everyone gets along. In the Cantina Marina Club you’ll find sponsor company CEOs and corporate executives mingling with a group of people who received free Club tickets because they worked for the sponsor. Also, while walking the course at any given time you’ll find a mix of older retired men walking among a group of college students, as an event like this attracts everyone. Like most golf tournaments, patrons are free to walk the course and follow the golfers. The first tee time is at 7:50 am on Holes 1 and 10, and every ten minutes a new threesome of golfers will tee off. Obviously bigger name golfers are going to have more people following them than others; I would say for the biggest names expect about 50-70 people following the group, with John Daly having the largest following of about 100 people. The afternoon tee times tend to have more people following them as well, as that is when the leading groups typically tee off. Return on Investment 4 Only 500 general admission tickets are sold per day, with a ticket (for each day) costing $20, or you can purchase a 3-day general admission ticket for $40. GA tickets get you access anywhere on the grounds, or into the public viewing bleachers set up on the 18th green. The Corona Premiere Patio on the 9th green costs $40 a day to get in, and only 150 tickets are sold there per day, while the Cantina Marina Club tickets cost a whopping $275 a day. However, the latter offers free parking and no charge to ride the bus over to the course, so that is a plus. Attending a PGA Champions Tour is a lot different than a regular PGA stop. On the Champions Tour only three rounds are played over three days, compared to the PGA’s four round and four-day event, with only about 70-75 golfers registered per event. Also, everybody makes the cut, so the golfers you see on Friday will still be in contention on Sunday. I consider just being able to see some of these golfers play up close was thrilling in itself. It is pretty cool to be able to stand 15 feet away from John Daly as he hits a 300-yard tee shot, or being able to shoot the breeze with Davis Love III as we walk the cart path. It is something cool that you wouldn’t get to experience at a regular PGA stop. Access 3 The hard part about getting to the Grand Bear is getting to the course itself. As mentioned, the course is located in seclusion in the middle of nowhere off Highway 49, the main highway from the Coast to Hattiesburg. As you cannot physically drive to the Grand Bear on Tournament week, you have to park on Highway 49 and take a bus over to the Golf Course. The main and only parking for patrons is located in a huge field behind Keith’s A/C and Heating, literally right off the highway. The great news is that despite the limitations of getting to the course, the process of getting there actually runs really smoothly. Parking is basically a huge field, so there are plenty of spots to park and cars are well directed. They have a tent sent up here as well, where they scan tickets and check bags. Tickets are also only sold online to speed up the process. The buses used to shuttle patrons over are buses from nearby Harrison Central High School, and despite the fact that they are yellow school buses they were actually very clean, not dirty like you would expect. I was there when the gates opened at 7:30, and got on second bus out of there (as I was leaving I counted well over 20 buses in a line ready to go). They also run round trips every ten minutes, so they are constantly coming and going. The whole process from when you park, get your tickets checked, and arrive at the Golf Course is about 20-25 minutes. Extras 3 One extra for the laid-back atmosphere at the PGA Champions Tour that you won’t find at a regular PGA Tour stop. Many of the players are playing this tournament just for fun, and you can tell. With the Masters occurring the week after this tournament, a few of the golfers use this as tune up before they head to Augusta. A lot of them ride carts from hole to hole, something you don’t see at most professional golf tournaments. In between holes you will find many of the golfers mingling with patrons, and at the tee pads you are right up there with them, probably 10-15 feet away from each golfer as they tee off. Unlike at some tournaments, phones are also a common site here, as you will find many people taking pictures – you are just advised to keep phones on silent. Another extra just for some of the big name golfers the Rapiscan System Classic attracts – in 2022 the 76 golfers who participated had a combined total of 268 regular PGA Tournament wins, with 22 total major wins and four World Golf Hall of Famers. Among some of the notable participants were John Daly, Retief Goosen, Ernie Els, Davis Love III, Jim Furyk, K.J. Choi, David Duvall, Pedraig Harrington, and two-time Master’s winner Bernhard Langer. Another extra for the history of PGA tournaments on the Mississippi Coast. Professional golf tournaments in the area date back to 1944, when the PGA hosted the Gulfport Open at the state’s oldest golf course, the Great Southern Country Club. The 1945 tournament was most famous for Byron Nelson and Sam Sneed finishing the final day of the tournament tied and having to advance to a playoff hole, in which Snead won. That 1945 tournament would be the last official PGA Tournament to take place on the Mississippi Coast. The LPGA also played a tournament in Biloxi in 1963, the Mary Mills Classic, and in Ocean Springs in 1964. Over the next 50 years the Coast would be home to several smaller professional tours: the Nike Tour’s Gulf Coast Classic from 1990-1997 and the Nationwide Tour’s Gulf Coast Open from 1999-2000. Jim Furyk, a 2022 participant in the Rapiscan Systems Classic, got his first professional win in the 1993 Nike Tour’s Gulf Coast Classic.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Tiger Field Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Field website Year Opened: 2007 (Renovated 2020) Capacity: 600 Lacrosse With Tigers Tiger Field opened as the Tiger Soccer Complex opened in 2007 and is the home to the Towson Tigers women’s lacrosse team as well as the women’s soccer team. This location, adjacent to Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena , was home to earlier versions of soccer fields for the school. In 2011 a more permanent set of bleachers was added, but it was in 2018 that a more substantial renovation started. Finally, in 2020 a new grandstand was added as well as permanent concessions, restrooms, and a press box. The Tigers have had decent success as a women’s lacrosse program. The team has made 11 NCAA tournament appearances. Food & Beverage 2 The new permanent concession stand is an improvement over the temporary one located here previously. The options are still quite simple and like many Towson athletic facilities do not offer a great variety. The prices are decent. Atmosphere 4 The hill between the pitch and the SECU Arena is a nice place to watch the matches and also provides a nice atmosphere. The “new” facility creates such a warm and comfortable environment to watch soccer matches. The permanent grandstand is not large but is much nicer than the older stands. Doc the Tiger, Towson’s mascot, is often in attendance at matches. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the field. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are Glory Days Grill and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Fans 4 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in residence students. Students are starting to come to games in more significant numbers. There are also many other fans who appear to be either locals or family of the players. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn location of the sports complexes. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 5 There is no admission charge and the food is reasonably priced so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 3 Free programs are available for the matches. Doc is a great mascot who makes the atmosphere better. The hill overlooking the pitch is a great extra. Final Thoughts The changes to Tiger Field have taken a good location for soccer and made it into a very special soccer experience.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Monarch Stadium Joe Stout View Dr Fayetteville, NC 28311 Methodist Monarchs website Monarch Stadium website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 1,200 Long Live the Monarchs Monarch Stadium opened in 1989 and has seating for around 1200, with 800 plastic chairback seats on bricked steps dug into one hillside, and portable bleachers with extra seating in one end zone and on the visitor’s side. The Methodist Monarchs compete in NCAA’s Division 3, in the USA South Athletic Conference. Food & Beverage 4 Monarch Stadium has several concessions stands located near the main entrance – available for purchase they have pizza, nachos, peanuts, pretzels, cotton candy, popcorn, pickles, packaged candy, crackers, fruit snacks, chips, and cookies, as well as Italian Ice from Sunset Slush, bottled water, soda, and Gatorade. Most items are $3 or less, with many items for $2, $1, or even less than a dollar. The stadium also offers baked goods as part of a fundraising effort – technically these are free but donations are accepted; the baked goods are available from baskets the staff walks around with during the game. Atmosphere 4 One unique feature at Monarch Stadium is that the band includes two electric guitars, which is not something you normally see in college marching bands. Another unique feature is the seats in the main grandstand in front of the press box – the chairback seats are very comfortable and have lots of legroom, so you have plenty of space to stretch out. Methodist Monarchs Band, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey In the area in front of each row of seats there is just plain grass, no cement or other flooring, and if you don’t like those seats you are welcome to sit on the grass next to the grandstand or sit in the temporary bleachers on the other side of the field or behind one end zone; a few fans even watch from the shade of the trees around the track which surrounds the field. There is plenty of Methodist signage around the stadium, including an “MU” logo set in a bed of gravel in one corner, and a sign for the Monarch Maniacs near the front entrance. There is also a mascot, in the form of a student wearing a lion costume and Monarch’s jersey, who roams the grandstand interacting with fans. Also, if you sit in the front row of the main grandstand you are less than one foot away from the cheerleaders, so you are close to the action here at Monarch Stadium, as close as you will probably ever be at a football game. The staff also plays some really fun music throughout the contest. Neighborhood 3 Monarch Stadium is located on Methodist’s campus in Fayetteville, NC, which is a military town (home of Fort Bragg). As such the city is large enough that there are plenty of things to do if you are in town for the day or the weekend. The two closest restaurants to the stadium, right on the other side of the street from the campus entrance on Ramsey Street, are Applebee’s and Burger King, but there are plenty of other choices further out. The area surrounding campus feels a little run down, but the campus itself is quite nice. The closest hotel to Monarch Stadium is Fairfield Inn & Suites, also on Ramsey Street, but there are plenty of other options along Highway 210 closer to Fort Bragg, or along 401 closer to the town center. Fort Bragg itself also has a visitor’s center you can visit to learn more about the base, or you can go to the Zipquest Waterfall & Treetop recreation center for some ziplining fun. Fans 2 Monarch Stadium doesn’t draw many fans – at an average game, you will probably see less than a thousand fans in attendance. As such the crowd noise is not very intense but instead provides a rather relaxing atmosphere. Methodist Monarch Fans, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Access 4 Getting to Monarch Stadium is a walk in the park – just enter campus using the Ramsey Street entrance, park for free in the lot on the corner of Lowdermilk and Joe Stout, and you are less than a 5-minute walk from the stadium. Tickets are sold right in front of the stadium for $6 (there are no online ticket sales), and getting in and out of the stadium is very quick and easy. There is plenty of room to move around the concourse and short lines at the concessions. The only drawback may be the restrooms, which are in a white trailer near the south end zone, and not at the main grandstand. Return on Investment 5 $6 tickets are probably the cheapest you will ever see for college football – add in free parking and low-cost concessions, and you get a great bang for your buck watching a game at Monarch Stadium. Extras 2 The football field at Monarch Stadium has a track around it and is also used for lacrosse, so you can watch a lot of different Methodist sports at this facility. The static scoreboard doesn’t have any video capability but is large enough to easily be seen from the main stands. The guitars in the band are a nice touch, although the band is very small with only a few members. The “free” baked goods are also a plus, but I think the best part of watching a football game at Monarch Stadium is how close you are to the action – you can feel the sights and sounds of the game. Final Thoughts While it won’t stack up to most of the NFL or FBS/FCS football stadiums you may have been to, Monarch Stadium is great as far as D3 facilities go. If you are in the Fayetteville area I think Monarch Stadium is worth a look – relaxed atmosphere, easy in and out, and the chance to see college football up-close; what more could you ask?

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info Milford Ice Pavilion 291 Bic Drive Milford CT 06460 Sacred Heart Pioneers men’s hockey website Milford Ice Pavilion website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 1,000 Pioneers at the Pavilion The Milford Ice Pavilion, or “MIP”, has been the home of the Sacred Heart Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey programs since their inceptions in 1993. Featuring general admission bleacher seating, the cozy confines of the MIP ensure that fans are right on top of the action. Sacred Heart, with its 6000 total students, is the second largest catholic university in New England. The Pioneers compete in the Atlantic Hockey Conference along with several other small universities in the northeast. The Athletic Department as a whole made headlines last year with their hiring of former major league baseball player and manager Bobby Valentine as their Athletic Director. Food and Beverage 3 Marty’s snack bar is located adjacent to the bleachers at the MIP. Voted best snack bar of any ice arena in Connecticut, it certainly has one of the most ambitious and impressive menus that you will ever see in a snack bar of it size anywhere. All the standards are here, featuring bottles of Coca-Cola products, juices, waters, and Powerades of every color of the rainbow. Fountain sodas are also available for those who prefer their beverages that way. For those looking for something a little more substantial, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, BLT’s, grilled cheese, French fries, chicken nuggets, and egg sandwiches are available. Marty’s also boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, such as chicken parmesan, sausage and peppers, meatball, and steak and cheese. Fans looking for snacks will be pleased to find assorted baked goods, cookies, nachos, popcorn, and pretzels. Try the house special heated chocolate chip cookie with whipped cream and a cherry on top to satisfy that sweet tooth. For those feeling a bit too chilled by the cold ice rink temperatures, different varieties of soup are available. The menu at Marty’s is so vast that it would be impossible to list all the items sold here. The snack bar opens bright and early in the morning to serve all the hockey moms and dads carting their pee-wees off to an early morning skate all day long through the Sacred Heart games in the evening. Prices are very affordable, with no item costing more than $5. If you need to eat while at a Pioneer game, you won’t need more than $10 to completely fill up. There are major arenas with less variety in their menus than is seen at Marty’s. The quality is decent, the prices are good, and lines move quickly. Atmosphere 2 There is not much of a game-time atmosphere during Sacred Heart games at the MIP. What energy there is here is entirely due to the presence of the Sacred Heart pep band. They are very active throughout the game, and do their best to both pump up the home squad and intimidate the visitors. Unfortunately, with the small size of the crowds at the MIP, their efforts largely are for naught. Shuttle busses are available from the nearby SHU campus, but few students make the trek from Fairfield to Milford. Attending a game at the MIP is a no-frills, basic experience. There are no in-game promotions, giveaways, or extras here. Music doesn’t blast over a high-grade PA system during play stoppages. In fact, there are several times during a game that the PA system is playing music at the same time the pep band is performing. Those looking for an elaborate in-game presentation will not find it here. Another factor working against the Pioneers here is the fact that they can hardly even be considered the primary tenant in their own rink. There is a striking trophy case in the MIP lobby, but every item inside it is from the various youth teams that call the Milford Ice Pavilion home. Inside the arena are located several banners commemorating local high school teams and the aforementioned youth teams. Sacred Heart banners can be found, but they are mixed in with all the others, and given no preferential treatment whatsoever. This NCAA Division I program is on an equal footing in this regard with a team made up of 8 to 10 year olds. It doesn’t make for much of a home ice advantage. Neighborhood 2 The Milford Ice Pavilion is located just off Interstate 95 on the edge of a residential area. There is nothing to do in the immediate area of the arena, so fans looking for food or lodging in the immediate area will follow Bic Drive south to Route 1, located about a mile away from the MIP. Route 1 runs parallel to Interstate 95 a short distance from the MIP, and there is no shortage of places to eat or stay on this route. Unfortunately, the majority of the eateries on this road belong to national chains. For fans willing to search a little harder, there are gems to be found in the area. Milford, however, is not considered to be a destination city. Hockey fans travelling to the area will most likely continue on to New York, Hartford, or nearby New Haven. New Haven is located 15 minutes to the east of Milford, and has a multitude of museums, fine architecture, and a growing reputation as one of the finer culinary cities of its size in the nation. Fans 1 Crowds at the Milford Ice Pavilion average in the 200-300 range, and would be best described as a “friends and family” type of crowd. Despite the availability of shuttle busses for students to get to the game from campus, there is a minimal turnout from the student body. What students do turn out are generally there to watch the game, not to get engaged in the antics seen at so many other college venues. With several opposing teams located a short distance from the MIP, a decent turnout from visiting fans happens regularly, with the visiting fans at times outnumbering the locals. Access 3 The MIP is located on the southern coast of Connecticut in the area known as the “Gold Coast”. The Sacred Heart campus is located 12 miles away in neighboring Fairfield. This area of Connecticut is very heavily traveled, as New York City is only an hour’s drive away on Interstate 95. Fans traveling to the area by air can fly into New York or Hartford, located just over an hour to the north. From either of those cities, travel by car is the most efficient method to arrive at Sacred Heart. The Milford Ice Pavilion couldn’t be much easier to get to. If driving, take exit 35 off of Interstate 95. Turn onto Bic Drive, and the MIP is a third of a mile ahead on the right. The town of Milford has a train station that is a regular stop on Amtrak’s busy Northeast corridor route, located 3 miles from the MIP. Local bus routes do not directly serve the MIP. Driving is the only practical method for arriving at the MIP. Once inside the MIP, there isn’t a whole lot of room to roam inside this small facility. All the bleachers are located on the same side of the rink, with a walkway at the bottom of the seating area providing access. Access to the other 2/3 of the arena is restricted to the teams playing that day. Fans requiring accessible seating will find room at either end of the rink to suit their needs. Bathrooms at the MIP are very small, cramped, and due to the heavy use that the arena gets throughout the day, not the cleanest facilities you will come across. Return on Investment 4 An evening at a Sacred Heart hockey game is a very affordable alternative to local professional hockey in the area. Tickets are sold as general admission for $8. Youth tickets are $5, and visiting students and seniors are admitted for $4. Sacred Heart students can attend Pioneer games for free. Parking in the MIP lot is free, and there is more than enough room in the lot for the average SHU crowd. Concessions are varied and reasonably priced. On average, it will cost you less than twenty dollars to attend a Pioneer game, get something to eat, and enjoy college hockey played at its top level. Kudos to the staff at SHU for their fan appreciation efforts during Seniors’ night, as all fans were admitted to the last game of the season free of charge. Extras 0 A hockey game at the Milford Ice Pavilion is a no-frills experience. Final Thoughts At the Milford Ice Pavilion, the hockey is the thing. Fans looking for elaborate in-game entertainment, promotions and creature comforts seen at larger venues will have to look elsewhere. With several other Division One programs and professional hockey teams in the immediate vicinity, Sacred Heart hockey often struggles to gain attention in the local market. Fans looking for affordable, family friendly hockey played at a top level will find exactly what they are looking for here. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

The Australian Baseball League has announced the 2023/24 season will see a return to a six- team league with 2018 expansion teams Auckland Tuatara and Geelong-Korea to cease operations. Auckland in particular had a strained relationship with the ABL over the past few years, however a myriad of lockdowns and border entry conditions heavily impacted both teams. Neither participated in the shortened 2020/21 season, and with the threat of further Covid restrictions, the ABL ultimately suspended the 2021/22 season. The 2022/23 season saw the Adelaide Giants win their first Championship in the ABL era, defeating perennial contenders Perth Heat 2-1 in the best-of-three series. However, the league struggled to get fans back to the ballpark. With the exception of Melbourne Aces, all teams experienced lower than usual attendance, particularly the beleaguered Sydney Blue Sox who struggled on and off the diamond under their new owners. Their tumultuous seasons has ultimately led to another change in ownership. Fans are cautiously optimistic that a return to baseball-centric owners will result in an improved fan experience for 2023/24. With the withdrawal of the Tuatara and Geelong-Korea, the league has discarded the short- lived conference system. All teams will play each other home and away in a 40-game season. Opening Day is set for November 17, with the regular season concluding on January 21. The top 4 teams will qualify for the post-season which starts on January 26. The top ranked team will host the fourth ranked team in a best-of-three, with the second ranked team hosting the third ranked team. The winner of each of these series will then vie for the Claxton Shield, scheduled for the weekend of February 2-4. 2023/24 Opening Round Brisbane @ Adelaide Perth @ Melbourne Canberra @ Sydney

The QMJHL has decided to take measures to eliminate fighting. Is this a good thing, and will other leagues follow suit? Could this be the end of fighting in hockey? Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Tuesday at 7 PM Eastern at danlaw.tv .

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Northford Ice Pavilion 24 Firelite Place Northford, CT 06472 Connecticut Whale website Northford Ice Pavilion website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 1.200 The Newest Whale Pod The Connecticut Whale are one of the four founding members of the NWHL, North America’s first professional women’s hockey league. The league, now in its second season, has teams located in New York, Buffalo and Boston in addition to Connecticut. Teams generally play once per week, with the entire schedule consisting of 18 games. The league operates on funds raised from sponsors as well as the NWHL Foundation, a charitable arm of the league that raises awareness of women’s hockey through grassroots efforts. The Connecticut Whale are named in honor of the defunct NHL Hartford Whalers. After playing their first season in Stamford at Chelsea Piers, the team moved into the Northford Ice Pavilion, just outside of New Haven, for the 2016-17 season. Northford Ice Pavilion, often referred to as the NIP, is a multi-rink complex that contains three NHL sized ice sheets. In addition to serving as home to the Connecticut Whale, it is used for local high school hockey and youth games. The Pavilion was the home of the Quinnipiac hockey program from 1999-2007, when the team moved to the TD Bank Sports Center. Food & Beverage 4 There is a snack bar at the Northford Ice Pavilion that puts out an impressively diverse menu for a stand of its size. The snack bar offers a wide variety of breakfast items (served all day), appetizers, sandwiches, soups, pizza and snacks. Even more impressive than the variety of the menu may be the prices. No item served here costs more than five dollars. You can even order a whole pizza for only eight dollars. Coca Cola products are featured at the snack bar. If soda isn’t your beverage of choice, juices, water, slushies, coffee and hot chocolate are also served. No alcohol is served at this community rink. The entire menu can be viewed here . Atmosphere 2 There is nothing particularly fancy about the gameday presentation here at the NIP. Fans of college hockey will find a lot that feels familiar here, with the pregame introductions mimicking what you would find at any college rink. Unfortunately, there is nothing here at the NIP that indicates you are at the home of a professional hockey team. The banners and signage located here all belong to local youth teams. This doesn’t create much of a home ice advantage. The smallish crowd is very enthusiastic and dedicated, but does not make a whole lot of noise. Youth teams take the ice during intermission, with the youngsters participating in a shootout against the Whale’s backup goalie. Music plays over a tinny PA system during play stoppages, and announcements can be difficult to hear at times. It’s a laid back atmosphere, which seems to fit this small community rink perfectly. Neighborhood 2 The Northford Ice Pavilion is located in a small industrial park tucked into a quiet residential neighborhood in Northford, Connecticut. Fans traveling to Whale games will not find anything to do in the immediate vicinity of the NIP, unless you happen to know one of the locals. Visiting fans will find a few restaurants and hotels out by Interstate 91. If traveling from out of town, your best bet will be to head down to New Haven, which has a growing reputation as a foodie destination, and has more than its share of things to do for a small city. If visiting during the fall, Sleeping Giant State Park is located in neighboring Hamden, adjacent to Quinnipiac University. Fans 2 Since the NWHL does not release attendance figures, it’s a bit difficult to accurately gauge the size of the crowds at Connecticut Whale games. A good sized crowd can be found at the NIP for the Whale, although it is by no means overwhelming. There are a great many children in attendance, in particular young girls, who proudly sport their hockey uniforms or Whale gear. There is a nice community feel in the stands, as many of the fans in attendance are regulars who seem to know each other and have a personal connection with the players on the ice. Access 3 The Northford Ice Pavilion is located in the small town of Northford, about ten miles north of New Haven. It is easily accessed via Interstate 91 in either direction. Detailed driving directions can be found here . There is no public transportation that directly serves Northford, so driving is the only way to get to the NIP. The NIP consists of three NHL-sized ice sheets, designated the Red, White and Blue rinks. The Whale play in the Red Rink, the largest of the three, which is located directly in front of you as you enter the NIP lobby. Also located in the facility’s lobby is the snack bar, rest rooms, and skate shop. All of the seating in the Red Rink will be located on your left as you enter the chilly rink. All seating consists of aluminum bleachers. The walkway is located along the front of the seating area. The first row is elevated at the height of the dasher, so all seats have a good view of the action. Netting runs the entire length of the rink and obscures views from all seats. Fans wanting to take in the action from a different vantage point can stand at the near end of the rink, where the Whale shoot twice. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Connecticut Whale games are sold as general admission seating for $20. There is no discount for children or seniors. Parking is free in the NIP lot. With reasonably priced concessions, a visit to see the Whale in action will not break the bank. Extras 2 As a fledgling league, the players in the NWHL accept a fraction of the salaries that their male counterparts receive. The NWHL has implemented a couple of unique measures to supplement player salaries. First, with every ticket over 500 sold, half of the profits are split between the teams playing that day. Second, Fifteen percent of all merchandise sold with a player’s name on it go to that player. If that’s not a reason to buy a t-shirt or jersey, nothing is. Lastly, the importance of having a professional women’s sports league cannot be understated after watching the young girls in attendance. Seeing the reverence with which the girls here, decked out in their youth uniforms, treat the players in the ice shows them that it is OK to care about sports and to excel at them. This point is reinforced during the post-game autograph session. The Whale give back to the community tirelessly with public appearances and hockey clinics aimed towards the numerous youth programs in the New Haven area. Final Thoughts While the Northford Ice Pavilion may come up short when compared to the NHL-quality facilities used by the other teams in the NWHL, it’s a solid home for the fledgling Whale. The NWHL has certainly experienced some growing pains in their second season, but the product on the ice is definitely worth a look. In hockey-mad New England, where there is no shortage of hockey to choose from between the professional, college and youth teams in the area, the Whale are beginning to carve out a niche as a “must see” option among local hockey fans. The team’s partnership with local girls youth hockey should prove invaluable in growing the women’s game in the future. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 1776 USA Election Central Everywhere, USA 17760 www.yourvote.gov Year Opened: 1776 Capacity: 155 million for the 2020 contest Electoral College Stadium Hosts the Big Event The Electoral College Stadium is one of the most unique sports facilities in the USA. It hosts only one game, the Electoral College Bowl and the game is only held once every four years on the first Tuesday in November. Among the impressive numbers at the Electoral College Stadium is its capacity….155 million fans have participated in the Electoral College Bowl in person over the last two election cycles. The press box at the facility is the largest in the world, as a worldwide press contingent has a great interest in the winner of the contest. We’re not just talking about sportswriters… this includes press staff from global governments, defense contractors, and political special interest groups, as well as the “non-partisan” press from CNN, MSNBC, CNBC, FOX, One America Network, Newsmax, etc. Network insiders/political influencers always get preferred seating in the press areas. The Electoral College Bowl has also experienced some on-field controversies in recent seasons, especially during the 2000 and 2020 contests. The referees, members of the Supreme Court in their zebra-striped robes, have the final say on controversial plays. Their decision is final… there are no grounds for an appeal. Of course, the team on the losing side of a call will then accuse the winning side of stacking the referee squad. Food & Beverage 3 The two sets of fans at the Electoral College Bowl Stadium cannot even agree on a standard set of food items at the concession stands. Therefore, the stands on the opposite sides of the field serve fare in line with their squad’s preferred food platform. While the Donkeys’ Blue Ribbon Stand favors lots of ethnic and soul foods, the Red Elephants’ Rockin’ Red Stand carries BBQ and other country club favorites. Atmosphere 5 Qualifying for the next Electoral College Bowl typically gets underway in January before the Bowl game. These preliminary contests often take place on the frozen tundra of fields located in the states of Iowa and New Hampshire. These early contests separate the contenders from the pretenders. This gets the political blood of the competing teams going for another election season. At the opposite end of the political spectrum is the Electoral College Bowl, the culminating event of the political season. It is preceded by pep rallies, otherwise known as conventions, held by each competing team. These events are important, as they determine the strategies to be employed by each team going into the final quarter of the political season. Speakers range from former team leaders to up-and-comers who may lead the teams in future years. Celebrity guests are also invited to these conventions, as they raise the TV ratings and help the celebrities meet the “right people” in the media world. The conventions also serve a function of choosing an assistant coach in case… well… there was Watergate…. And the head coach might be tossed out of the game! There are times when the battle between the parties somewhat goes out of control, resulting in some unsportsmanlike conduct, such as some mudslinging taking place. In these situations, the officials are quick to file injunctions to get the offending players calmed back down. Gameday is really about the fans. By now, the two finalists have completed the X’s and O’s of their game plans and published them in their team program, or platform. The supporters of the Democratic Donkey team wear their blue team colors proudly and sit on the left (liberal) side of the election field, while the red-clad Republican Elephant supporters sit on the right (conservative) side of the field. Any Independents that somehow get in the Electoral College Bowl are confined to the area behind the end zone… looking wistfully at the playing field they cannot earn a spot on. As soon as the Electoral College Bowl ends, the polls reopen to gauge the up-and-coming teams at the city, state, and federal levels. These teams compete at a separate level, namely the Federal, City, and State levels, known as the FCS. Neighborhood 5 Electoral College Stadium is unique in that its seating bowl is not set up based on rows or aisles. Instead, fans of each team are seated by precinct. This allows the political stand managers to easily identify problem areas and dispatch a squad of political consultants to decide what platform corrections can be made quickly to bring the voters in those areas back in line with the party’s platform. The seating precincts are subject to alterations between the election cycles due to redistricting. Fans 5 Electoral College Stadium and the Electoral College Bowl draw fans from all 50 states and some U.S. Territories. The fan bases are about equally distributed between the Democratic Blue Donkeys and the Republican Red Elephants. Every few years a registered Independent fan tries to sneak in, but the polls have never allowed the Independents to get as far as the Electoral College Bowl Game due to the stringent eligibility requirements. (Plus, they don’t stand a chance of winning against the big boys!). Even though each fan base is solid in support of their party, some fans waver when gameday arrives. This a big negative, and the offending fan is in danger of being accused of being a “moderate,” which is akin to being called a scab in this ultimately political game. Attending a game at Electoral College Stadium does come with restrictions. Fans must be at least 18 years old and must be registered voters. No kids allowed! Each fan is limited to one ticket per ballot. Tickets may not be sold or transferred to another person. Some photo ID may be required at the gate by a poll watcher. (i.e., so no one cheats!) Access 3 Gamedays at Electoral College Stadium get underway as the gates typically open at 7 am, and do not close for 12 hours. However, you often must leave before the final score/stats are determined. Access to the Electoral College Stadium is restricted to persons over 18, who have not committed any Federal crimes (or at least have not been caught) and are residents of the U.S.A. Ticket takers at the gates of the stadium are Secret Service agents who have the right to frisk anyone who might be deemed as a danger to members of the winning/losing Electoral College Bowl teams. Fat cats and special interest groups are allowed admittance to the Smoked Filled Room luxury boxes atop the stadium. Members and supporters of the losing squad in the contest are prohibited from the Smoke-filled Room Luxury Box for the next four years. Return on Investment 4 The Electoral College Bowl is one of the most expensive college contests in the world, as fans, corporate fat cats special interest groups, and plain small donors compete in the contest to influence the winner of the Electoral College Bowl Game. Tickets go for face value… it is the table funding that gets favorable consideration from the winning team. Depending on the legislation passed, or favors done, some attendees DO see a favorable return on their investment. Extras 3 Fans in attendance need to choose a side before taking part in the Electoral College Bowl. If you don’t make a choice, you have no right to complain for the next four years! The perks to being a supporter of the winning squad in the game may include entry into one of the many Washington galas, a prime seat at the Inaugural Parade, or a possible appointment as a member of the Presidential Cabinet. The 2000 game featuring Al Gore as the leader of the Democratic Donkeys squad and George W. Bush as the captain of the Republican team holds the Electoral College Bowl record for overtime. It finally was decided by the infamous “hanging chads” call by the court/bowl zebras, which awarded the win to the Red squad. Final Thoughts The electoral college stadium has lasted for nearly 250 years. It has survived wars, depressions, good times and bad. Just like any structure, it has some imperfections and is subject to criticism from the fans, who point out the flaws in the structure. What is most important is that its once in every four years schedule for the Big Game allows the fans from both teams to have a say in the game strategy for their respective squads. Like any contest, after the whistle blows to signal the end of the game, both parties shake hands to acknowledge the winner.... and that's the American Way.