Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Tripp Athletic Center Ring Road Dartmouth, MA 02747 UMass Dartmouth Corsairs basketball website Tripp Athletic Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,500 Worth the Tripp The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is one of five campuses in the University of Massachusetts system. Originally known as Southeastern Massachusetts Technological Institute and then as Southeastern Massachusetts University, it merged into the UMass system in 1991. The school has a student body of just over 7,750 students enrolled in 120 graduate and undergraduate fields of study. The Tripp Athletic Center, named in honor of former coach, athletic director, moderator of athletics and Textile Science professor Frances Tripp, features a fitness center, aquatics center and indoor track in addition to several basketball courts. It was built in 1972 at a cost of $2.7 million. UMass Dartmouth has sponsored varsity basketball programs at the school since its founding in 1966. They currently compete in the Little East Conference, which is made up of nine Division Three schools located throughout New England. The Corsairs have qualified for 15 NCAA Tournaments, reaching the Sweet Sixteen six times (1990, 1991, 1994, 2001, 2009 and 2022) and the Final Four once (1993). The women’s basketball team have qualified for the NCAA tournament three times (2017, 2024 and 2025), reaching the Elite Eight in 2017. Food & Beverage 1 There is a concession stand in the main lobby of the Tripp Athletic Center. Unfortunately, this stand is not open for all games. When operational, the stand offers hot dogs, assorted snacks and drinks. Pepsi products are featured here at UMass Dartmouth. No alcoholic beverages are sold here at this on-campus facility. If you happen to visit UMass Dartmouth for a game when the concession stand is closed, there are some vending machines in the lobby that are available for cold drinks. Fans are also able to bring in their own items. This being New England, it’s not uncommon to see Dunkin’ Donuts coffees here on a cold Massachusetts winter night. Atmosphere 3 The game day atmosphere at a Corsairs game is typical of other small schools throughout the northeast. Basketball just isn’t a huge deal at these schools, but they do have some dedicated fans, most of whom have a personal connection with the players on the court, and who make a surprising amount of noise. The school’s mascot, Arnie the Pirate (get it? Arrrrr-nie?) shows up on occasion to mingle with the fans and operate the t-shirt cannon. Arnie works in conjunction with the cheerleading squad, pep band and dance team to make the Tripp Center a lively place to catch a game. There are scoreboards on either end of the court which display basic game stats. Unfortunately, the larger scoreboard at the far end of the gym can be difficult to see due to its placement behind the basket support. Music plays during stoppages and PA announcements are made throughout the game. The PA announcer here really leans into his job, although the sound system does need a bit of an upgrade. There's a lot more going on at the Tripp Athletic Center than you'll find at most other D-3 basketball games in the area. New for the 2023-24 season is a video board hung on the south side of the gym. It's utilized throughout the game with graphics, which are integrated into the gameday experience. The UMassD staff have been adding more giveaways and promotions into its gameday presentation, including a free pizza giveaway, t-shirt tosses, and more. Neighborhood 4 While the UMass Dartmouth campus is self-contained with a great deal of green, open space and wooded areas, it is close to a very busy commercial area. Visitors will find many places to eat, shop and stay on Route 6, which passes just to the north of campus. A complete visitor’s guide to the area around campus can be found here . While the two cities that sandwich Dartmouth, Fall River and New Bedford, may not have stellar reputations, there are places of interest in both cities. Fall River is home to Battleship Cove, the largest collection of World War II naval vessels in the world. Also nearby is the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast/Museum , located in the same house where the infamous murders took place in 1892. The museum is open for tours and fans of the macabre can actually spend the night at the house. The New Bedford Whaling Museum and National Historic Park focus on the history of the Whaling industry. There are plenty of attractions in the area for visiting fans. Boston is located about an hour away to the north. Cape Cod is located a half hour to the east. Providence is a half hour away to the west, and Newport, with its Gilded Age mansions, is 45 minutes away. Fans 2 UMass Dartmouth averages between 200-300 fans per game at Tripp Athletic Center. As is typical of other small schools in the northeast, the crowd here can be described as a “friends and family” crowd. Many of the fans in the stands have a personal connection with the athletes on the court. There are lots of proud parents and classmates mixed in with some die-hard local hoops fans. UMass Dartmouth’s membership in the Little East Conference means the bulk of their schedule consists of other local schools. It’s not unusual to see visiting fans taking in the action as well. UMass Dartmouth enjoys a strong kinship among the many teams in the Athletic Department, and you'll be likely to see members of the other Corsair teams in the stands leading the cheers for the basketball teams. Access 3 UMass Dartmouth is located in suburban Dartmouth, Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The school is easily accessed by Interstate 195. Given the suburban location of the campus, driving is the primary method for getting to UMass Dartmouth. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) operates busses to both Fall River and New Bedford that arrive on campus roughly every half hour. Tripp Athletic Center is located on the south side of campus, adjacent to several other athletic facilities, including Cressy Field . UMass Dartmouth has a rather unique setup in that most campus buildings are located within a single ringed road. Tripp Athletic Center is on the outer edge of the road, away from the parking lots. Visiting fans can park in the lots across the street. Your best bet is to park in lot 10, right across the street from the Tripp Center. It’s not the most convenient setup you’ll come across, especially on a cold winter night. You would be hard pressed to find a more nondescript building than the Tripp Athletic Center. Marked with only a small sign and hidden away from the road, it is an easy building to miss. The basketball gym in the Tripp Athletic Center is located in the rear of the building. Fans entering the building enter the gym lobby on the second floor. The Corsair Hall of Fame is located here, as well as the concession stand, restrooms and vending machines. All seating is on one side of the basketball court, and consists of wooden bleachers. When an especially big crowd is expected, the bleachers on the west side of the gym will also be opened. Fans will enter at the top of the seating area and walk down to their seats. In this small gym, all seats offer great views of the action. Restrooms, while a bit dated, are more than adequate for a typical Corsair crowd. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Corsair basketball games cost five dollars. Just be aware that starting in the 2024-25 season, UMass Dartmouth has gone paperless with their ticketing system. All tickets can be purchased on their ticketing app or through the website. If attending on a night where a conference foe is visiting, one admission ticket gets you into both the women's and men's games. Parking is free in the lots across Ring Road. If you need a drink or snack during the game, the vending machines are pretty inexpensive. It adds up to an affordable night of entertainment for southeastern Massachusetts sports fans. Extras 2 The Corsair Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the lobby just outside the basketball court. The display features memorabilia from throughout UMass Dartmouth’s athletic history. Banners honoring Corsair tournament appearances and 1,000 point scorers are hung throughout the gym. A final extra point is awarded for the design of the UMass Dartmouth campus itself. The university was “honored” in 2013 as one of the ugliest campuses in the United States. Travel and Leisure magazine likened its buildings to “concrete spaceships,” which is a fairly accurate description. Designed by internationally renowned Modernist architect Paul Rudolph. Campus buildings were built in the Brutalist style popular in the 1960s. The exterior and interior of the buildings are made from rough concrete (beton brut). The campus features large windows, meant to blur the distinction between inside and outside, and short, irregular stairs, meant to slow people down and allow them to appreciate the campus more fully. Newer campus buildings, including the Tripp Center, have been built to complement, but not to copy, Rudolph’s aesthetic. The end result is a cold, drab campus featuring buildings that can actually be very difficult to get around. Clarie T. Carney Library at UMass Dartmouth. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia. Final Thoughts The Tripp Athletic Center is a small gym that enjoys some big support from the local community. Fans who like their hoops with a side of architecture will certainly enjoy a visit to the UMass Dartmouth campus. A tour of the Paul Rudolph-designed campus can be just as interesting as the action on the court. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Sorrentino Gymnasium 101 N College Ave Annville, PA 17003 Flying Dutchmen website Sorrentino Gymnasium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 1,650 Champions Gym Lebanon Valley College is a liberal arts college in downtown Annville, PA. Annville is in Lebanon County, east of Hershey. Founded in 1866 Lebanon Valley has approximately 1,600 undergraduates. The Princeton Review has recognized the college as “A Best in the Northeast” and they have over thirty-five fields of study . Lebanon Valley College is a member of NCAA Division III and competes in the Middle Atlantic Conference. The school has produced 11 all-Americans and was the 2009 and 2011 ECAC Southwest Bowl champions. The school’s teams are the Flying Dutchmen, and its mascot is the Dutchman. The college is known as the home of the 1994 NCAA Division III National Champions in basketball. That 1994 championship victory over New York University was a controversial affair when a Dutchmen shot that won the game may or may not have been by the sound of the buzzer. But no matter what, the school hosts that championship proudly, as they should. Sorrentino Gymnasium is located within the Arnold Sports Center, The headquarters of LVC Athletics. The Arnold Sports Center is home to the Arnold Arena fieldhouse and LVC's pool, as well as offices for LVC's athletic administrators and coaches. The building houses a 196-meter track, and the infield can be converted to four basketball, volleyball, or tennis courts. Food & Beverage 2 There is no real official concession stand at the venue. There is a small vending machine area and the venue has plenty of room for temporary stands if they so choose. You can bring outside food to the venue. Atmosphere 5 The small college pride of Lebanon Valley College was in full effect at this game. The arena was packed and all sides of the gym were filled with fans. The arena is a very nice facility and exudes the energy of a Division I facility. Some cheerleaders help the atmosphere. There is a small, old scoreboard, which may be the only real negative for the venue. A videoboard would pump this venue to the highest levels. Neighborhood 4 Annville is a great little town of a little less than 5,000 about 8 miles east of Hershey, PA. The college is right in the heart of downtown. Funck’s Family Restaurant, Corvette Grille and Bar, and Harper’s Tavern are all local establishments that offer good food pre and post-game. The Pennsylvania chain, Hoss’s Steak & Sea House, is another option right in Annville. The food is good, cheap, and certainly plentiful. J & S Pizza is a decent option within walking distance of campus. Fans 4 The crowds at Lebanon Valley do not disappoint. There is quite a bit of obvious school pride with fans attending in droves. The athletic teams here are supported well and have shown a great deal of ability for their fans. Access 4 Located on Route 422 between Lebanon and Hershey, Annville is easy to find and has no problem handling the crowds for such a small stadium. Expect that on busy game days, you will hit some traffic on Route 422, especially on Bellegrove Road by the athletic complex. There is a good amount of parking, but do plan ahead of time. You can also try to park in downtown Annville and walk over the railroad pedestrian bridge to the athletic fields. The athletic fields are located north of the main campus, separated by a railroad. Return on Investment 4 There is a $5 cash price for admission. The value is good for this high quality of venue. Extras 5 There are so many sports venues in the same area as the gymnasium so check to see if any other sports are going on at the same time. Check out the LVC Hall of Champions. This museum-like display space commemorates the great individual and team achievements of Flying Dutchman athletics. Take a look at the 1994 National Championship basketball banner. The team is supported by a very good cheerleader squad with some nifty cheers. Final Thoughts Sorrentino Gymnasium is one of the finest small college arenas we have seen. sports fan visiting central Pennsylvania owes it to themselves to see if a game is going on when they are in the area.

Staff Photo Courtesy of the San Diego Times-Union Today, ballparks are built to be the centerpiece of a burgeoning district or neighborhood, a venue that will bring people together for more of a social event than just a ballgame. A new ballpark aims to raise the bar for the ultimate social experience and modern amenities every few years. There was one such ballpark built in San Diego over 65 years ago that was ahead of its time in both modern comfort and style, however, the forward progress of the city in obtaining major league status would ultimately prove to be the death knell for Westgate Park. Westgate Park would be the home to the San Diego Padres of the Pacific Coast League from 1958 to 1967; it has been overlooked by many in terms of sentiment; it featured many current amenities and standards for today’s stadiums. Banker C. Arnholt Smith purchased the minor league Padres in 1955 and kept the team in the town after former owner Bill Starr fell into financial problems. The club was playing at Lane Field, an old WPA stadium that according to Smith was “slapped together with old lumber and falling apart”. The stadium was pretty “punk” and infested with termites eating away at the wooden structure providing it with its nickname “termite village”. “We bought the team for about $300,000. Of course, after we bought it, then everybody started screaming that we needed a new stadium!,” After being advised, Smith picked the pastoral land of the undeveloped Mission Valley to erect his new building. At the time, the area was known for its vast farmland, miles away from downtown. However, there must have been a vision of the area’s potential since the city council voted in June 1958 to rezone 90 acres of farmland along I-8 near where the Padres new stadium would be erected. Smith, who also owned the Westgate-California Tuna Packing Co., financed the $1 million stadium out of his pockets and was seen as a baseball savior in San Diego. Attendance at Padres games and ballparks around the country was fleeting due to television and broadcasts of major league baseball games in numerous markets coast to coast.  Westgate Park's electronic scoreboard with the two giant tuna cans to promote the company. (CBS 8 San Diego) Westgate Park would be a state-of-the-art facility that would be the envy of not only the PCL but the rest of the baseball world.  The 8,268-seat ballpark featured theater-style seating with armrests and a steel roof that shaded a majority of the grandstand. Four light towers on the roof leaned forward at about a 60-degree angle.  Smith even gave his ballpark a corporate name after his tuna company. San Diego Union Times  Sports Editor Jack Murphy, whose name would grace a future stadium, wondered if there would be resentment in the “commercialization of the name”, but proclaimed it the finest stadium in minor-league baseball. “Not even Yankee Stadium or Boston’s Fenway Park can surpass the comforts and conveniences of the Padres’ new home on Friars Road.” There were no outfield bleachers; the area was made of grass seating for fans to lay out in the sun to watch the game.  The seating sloped down to field level behind the outfield fence. Photos of the ballpark show a similar setup that would be incorporated into various ballparks, roughly 35 years later. Accenting the ballpark was an array of trees, shrubs, flowers, and tropical plants throughout the ballpark's exterior and interior. Perhaps the most exotic of all these trees and plants were the eucalyptus trees planted on both sides of the scoreboard in left field. “It was well-engineered. We dug it down so as you walked in, you were about halfway up in the seating area and the field was below you, added Smith. “It brought the audience right up close to the team’s activity. You could hear the players swearing and yelling at each other.” Westgate (L-R) had slanted towers, a storage room for peanuts, multiple ticket booths, and theater-style chairs. (CBS 8 San Diego) When it came to concessions, the stadium provided vast kitchens with walk-in coolers for both beer and soda. There was a heat-control storage room for peanuts set to 120 degrees and reportedly held up to 10,000 bags at a time.  Another unusual concept of the era, but very common today, was different and outrageous menu options. The park sold a tubed-shaped item called “tunies”  made out of fish, a fish hot dog. They were originally created in in 1941 as a meat substitute for Catholics on Fridays. Smith produced them at his cannery and loved how the skinless tuna hot dog tasted. He said they looked and tasted better than a hot dog. What is even more bizarre is that it appeared that regular pork or beef hot dogs were not sold, but after a little while the “tunies” were scrapped in favor of the more traditional ballpark staple. Other concessions included hamburgers, popcorn, potato chips, ice cream sandwiches, beer, Pepsi and 7Up products, and cigars. Westgate had a carnival-like atmosphere with c i rcuses, concerts, and zoo animals entertaining fans. These acts would soon relocate to the San Diego Sports Arena, now Valley View Casino Center, in 1966. The next year the San Diego Rockets of the NBA began operations; the times were changing rapidly, and America’s Finest City was fast becoming a major league town. When the Major Leagues expanded in 1961 and 1962, San Diego was optimistic about landing a team sometime soon. That feeling only heightened when 9,000 fans watched an exhibition game between the Milwaukee Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers in April 1962 at Westgate Park. Westgate's outfield walls feature no billboard ads and plenty of green lawn seating behind the chainlink fence. (CBS 8 San Diego) The next year the Braves flirted with relocation to San Diego and blueprints were developed that added a second deck to Westgate to increase capacity to 43,000. However, the Braves stayed in Milwaukee until announcing it would relocate to Atlanta for the 1966 season. The next year a bid was put up to move the Cincinnati Reds to town, but they were sold to a local group that kept the franchise in Ohio. Around the same time, the San Diego Chargers of the American Football League were threatening to relocate up the road to Anaheim if the antiquated Balboa Stadium, built in 1914, was not replaced. Soon there was a push, headed by Murphy, for a brand new 50,000-seat dual-purpose stadium. One would only have to look at the team’s 1966 official program that featured the city skyline and a small banner on the cover that proclaimed San Diego as a city in motion. A few months later on November 2, 1965, a $27 million bond was passed allowing for the construction of a multipurpose stadium that would fit 50,000-60,000 people. Westgate is featured heavily on its game-day programs, notice by 1966 that the team was pushing away from Gateway Park imagery By the time San Diego Stadium’s was completed in time for the 1967 football season for the Chargers, Westgate Park had already hosted its last game. The Padres final year in the PCL would be played at the massive stadium that would serve as the home to the major league Padres from 1969 to 2003. “So after we moved the team to San Diego Stadium, we said, what the hell are we going to do with Westgate?” Ernie Hanh, the Director of the US National Bank, came up with the idea of building a shopping center on the site. It was centrally located and everybody could get there by car. And with that decision, Westgate Park was torn down and replaced with the Fashion Valley Mall. The successful mall opened in 1969 becoming the leading shopping center in the San Diego area, boasting 1.7 million square feet of floor area.  The Padres were the top affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies during its last three seasons and were relocated to Eugene, Oregon. The theater-style seats and lighting poles would be sold to its new home at Civic Stadium which had to be renovated to be up to minor league standards of the day.  The 800 seats would remain at its new home until 1986 when plastic blue, plastic seats replaced them. Westgate Park's demise came from San Diego’s aggressive progress in professional sports. When it opened in 1957, the city did not have a major league club, 13-years-later it had teams in the NFL, MLB, and NBA.  The City in Motion was no longer a minor league town.  The forward-thinking design of grass outfield seating, a sunken bowl, attention to aesthetics, a corporate name, and detail to concessions would become hallmarks of minor league baseball clubs decades later in the 1990s and early 21st century.  It was a stadium that was ahead of its time. One last nod to Westgate’s legacy is in Kissimmee, Florida, where the blueprints were utilized in designing a new Spring Training park for the Houston Astros  Osceola County Stadium in 1985.  Had any of these things worked out differently: 1) the stadium issue doesn’t pass for a major league team, 2) the Chargers relocate to Anaheim, or 3) Buffalo is awarded an expansion team in the N.L.--Westgate Park would have hosted baseball for a longer period and perhaps become much more cherished by San Diegoians and ballpark lovers alike. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 F & M Bank Arena 101 Main Street Clarksville, TN 37040 Austin Peay Governors website F&M Bank Arena website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 5,500 It’s Tipoff Time in Stacheville From its tip in Johnson City with the   East Tennessee State Buccaneers , to its tail in Memphis with the Tigers , Tennessee has a deep love of college basketball that runs throughout the state. Twelve NCAA Division 1 schools represent the state; in Middle Tennessee on the banks of the Cumberland River, the city of Clarksville is home to the Governors of Austin Peay State University. Named after former Tennessee governor Austin Peay, the first basketball team took to the hardwood here in 1929 – this would be the first sport played at Austin Peay.  The university built its first facility dedicated to basketball, Memorial Gym, in 1950. The venue soon earned the nickname “The Red Barn”, partially due to its resemblance to a brick barn, but also possibly in reference to the mule that is rumored to be buried under the court, whose ghost haunted the halls of the building, according to legend. The Govs would spend 25 seasons at Memorial Gym before moving to Winfred Dunn Center, referred to as “The Big Red Barn”, carrying over the moniker. This would be the home of Austin Peay basketball for 47 seasons until the opening of off-campus F&M Bank Arena in 2023. Since moving to the NCAA’s Division 1 in 1962, the Governors were members of the Ohio Valley Conference, but the teams recently moved to the Atlantic Sun Conference (A-Sun) in 2022, where they remain today.   Food & Beverage   4 Concessions around the arena provide various options that go beyond typical concession menus; the Hot or Cold stand serves chicken tender baskets, either traditional or in a Nashville Hot Chicken style, and can also have mac-and-cheese added. Also available is a boneless pork chop on a potato bun with a side of fries. Another option, the Buzzer Beater Burgers stand, is much more than just that – beyond the obvious burgers, options also include patty melts, cheesesteak, smoked bologna, and footlong corndogs. In addition, a pair of self-serve locations take care of the typical fare such as hot dogs, pizza, and other arena classics. Soft drinks offered at F&M Bank Arena are from the Coca-Cola family of beverages, but fans have many more choices beyond that. Monster Energy, Powerade, Dunkin Iced Coffee, Body Armor, and various iced teas can be found at the grab-and-go locations, while alcoholic beverages include Twisted Tea, White Claw and High Noon seltzers, wine, and domestic beers. Craft beers include Michael Waltrip’s Talladega Light and Bristol Sunshine Tangerine Ale. Clarksville brewers are also well represented, including brews from Blackhorse Brewery and Star Spangled Brewing Co. Also available are both premixed canned and hand mixed liquor drinks. It is refreshing to see that the focus of stadium food here is not what has come to be expected at practically every other athletic facility.   Atmosphere   3 From the front, F&M Bank Arena does appear to be a bit of a smaller venue, due to it being built into the slope of the area. However, it houses not only a full-size arena, but also a practice-size ice rink, all under one roof. A large, four-sided scoreboard hangs over center court and runs a video feed of the game, framed by rotating panels of individual player and team statistics. The facing in front of media row also runs a tally of the current game time and score. One of the challenges of multi-use facilities is they tend to push fans further from the action at the ends of the court; F&M Bank Arena helps counter this with multiple rows of floor seating, which does help bring more of an atmosphere to those parts of the arena. However, the seating in the stands at one end of the arena does feel a bit distant from the action on the floor. Timeouts are mostly filled with on-court contests or fan interactive cams on the scoreboard. Also, when they are not entertaining with fan engagement pieces, the Austin Peay pep band is a featured part of breaks in play. One of the drawbacks of the non-university owned facility is there does not seem to be much, other than the banners in the rafters, that tells the story of the history of Austin Peay basketball. This is not to say there is no Austin Peay branding around the arena, but it would be nice to see more that tells the story of the program.   Neighborhood   4 F&M Bank Arena bridges the gap between the Austin Peay campus and downtown Clarksville, two blocks from the Cumberland River. The area directly surrounding the arena is a mix of new development and repurposed buildings from a previous era – to one side is Shelby’s Trio, a very modern feel of three levels made up of the motor-themed Joe’s Garage, Trattoria Di Cat’s Italian cuisine, and the rooftop Skyline Bar 500, while the opposite side of the arena features Strawberry Alley Ale Works,  Blackhorse Pub & Brewery, and the late night Taproom. If looking to pass some time before an evening tipoff, the Austin Peay campus is a short walk away from the facility. In addition, less than 10 minutes out of downtown Clarksville are the Dunbar Caves, which offer guided tours. Those who might be in Clarksville for more than just the day might want to consider staying at the Double Tree by Hilton; the hotel is directly behind F&M Bank Arena and within walking distance of the area’s shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. The I-24 exit off US-79 also has a large cluster of hotels, but they are well removed from the downtown area.   Fans   3 Austin Peay ranks in about middle of the pack when considering average attendance numbers throughout the A-Sun Conference. When looking for a game with the most fan impact, the match up with nearby rival Murray State  fills the seats of F&M Bank Arena to a raucous level – these rivalry games really fill out the 5,500-seat arena past its stated basketball capacity. The Clarksville community appears to do a good job coming out to support the Governors, but the student involvement appears to be a work in progress. As the program continues to find stability, student engagement can play a key role boosting the game experience at F&M Bank Arena.   Access   3 Interstate 24 runs locally out of Nashville and makes getting to Clarksville rather simple. The streets around the arena do get somewhat congested as game time approaches, and the number of one-way streets in the area can make navigating them a bit tricky at times. With entry points on three of four sides, getting into F&M Bank Arena is made as convenient as possible. Due to the extreme slope of the streets leading toward the river, however, the main entry point on College Avenue comes into the suite level at the top of the arena. The open concourse around the top of the seating bowl allows the energy of the game to permeate the entire arena; this allows fans to leave their seats and still keep up with what’s happening in the game.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets start at just over $20 before fees are added, which, considering the use of Ticketmaster, are kept rather nominal. Parking around the arena is another cost that needs to be factored in when considering the all-in expense. Concessions do seem to be a bit high, but the options at F&M Bank Arena are of higher quality than would typically be found at similar-sized arenas, so this does seem to rationalize the slightly higher prices.   Extras   3 Austin Peay’s mascot, “The Gov”, is active at court level cheering on the Governors, interacting with fans, and accompanying the cheer and dance squads in keeping fans entertained until play resumes. The rafters of the arena showcase the Govs’ conference and tournament championships, NCAA tournament appearances, retired numbers, and the 420 wins in the career of longtime Governors Coach Dave Loos. With new facilities typically come an updated lighting package – the lighting at F&M Bank Arena allows for an impressive pregame show, as well as late game timeouts to help get the fans into a bit more of a frenzied state during pivotal moments of the game.   Final Thoughts There is probably little doubt throughout the A-Sun that F&M Bank Arena is the most impressive facility throughout the conference; the comfort and amenities offered here certainly are second to none. The location in downtown Clarksville is also another feature that simply cannot be rivaled in the A-Sun. There is work to be done here in bringing in a consistent crowd, especially on the student side of the equation, but the current experience is a strong foundation to build upon.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Harford Varsity Baseball Field 401 Thomas Run Rd Bel Air, MD 21015 Harford Fighting Owls website Harford Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 1,000 The Fighting Owls of Bel Air Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly in between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. They play in NJCAA Division I, the highest athletic level for 2-year colleges and are a part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. Having played on the fairly worn Thomas Run Park baseball field, Harford wanted to update its facilities. So in 2014 the college began an extensive remodel of the facility. The nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena also opened in the last few years. The Aberdeen Arsenal of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball played the 2000 season at Thomas Run Park. The Arsenal departed to make room for the Aberdeen IronBirds, the A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles owned by Cal Ripken, Jr. The University of Delaware used the Harford Baseball Field for many home games while their home Bob Hannah Stadium was being remodeled in 2014. Delaware also usually plays against the University of Maryland at least once per season here at Harford Varsity Baseball Field, since it is located nearly halfway between the two schools. Food & Beverage 1 There technically is no food offered at the Harford Varsity Baseball Field, but with the nearby Wawa convenience store a short walk down the paved path between fields, I count it as the field’s own concession stand. The food offerings vary from hoagies, soup, quesadillas, and hot dogs. And the prices are better than most concession stands. Atmosphere 2 The new grandstand is a very nice set of stands with seat backs that wrap from dugout to dugout. Those seats will be behind a netting. There are also older seating sections further down each line that is away from the netting. If you hate to watch a game through nets you may want to move over there, although you will not have seat backs. The field is an artificial surface. This includes the infield, which is artificial turf painted brown. Some true baseball fans may hate that, but it is understandable that a community college may want to keep maintenance cost down by using such a surface. There is not much else in terms of atmosphere as it is a JUCO level baseball game. The team does have a PA announcer and plays walkup music for players. Neighborhood 4 Harford Community College is in a suburban location and has plenty of free parking. The area is safe and has many restaurants nearby. Naughty Dogs is within walking distance and has a fun, cheap bar for pre and post-game refreshments, along with food such as pit beef. JD’s Smokehouse located across the street provides another option for food and drinks and some pretty good barbecue. If you are in the mood for Mexican, La Tolteca is located just a brief distance away and is a consistently good food place. Travel into Bel Air and there are multiple chain and local options. Zen 16 Sushi Cafe and MaGerks Pub & Grill are some great options. A quick drive in the other direction is Aberdeen. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe with Love is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. Super Chicken Rico is another choice with which you can’t go wrong. Fans 2 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few local residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 Harford is located just a few miles off of I-95, one of the largest highways in the northeast. But State Route 22 can be very crowded with commuters traveling between Aberdeen Proving Grounds (APG) and central Harford County. APG has become a very large Army base after the last round of federal base realignment and closure activities. So leave some extra time getting to the campus. There is plenty of free parking. Towson University in Northeastern Maryland is a brand new extension campus of the well-established state university that recently opened across from the Harford campus. Return on Investment 5 Games are free to attend so the return on investment is pretty high. The low cost of concessions at nearby Wawa also make the cost to watch a good level of baseball game pretty high. Extras 2 The Harford Sports Complex also has two other softball fields, as well as a convertible field that can hold softball and/or baseball games. Harford Stadium, home to the school’s lacrosse and soccer teams is also located next door. If you get a chance to peek into the nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena it is worth a visit as this is quite an impressive facility for a junior college. Final Thoughts The newly designed Harford Baseball Field is an impressive facility that offers high-quality baseball for no cost to the fans. Nothing fancy, but it makes a good stop for baseball fans.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Lancaster Bible Baseball Field 901 Eden Rd Lancaster, PA 17601 Lancaster Bible Chargers website Lancaster Bible Baseball Field website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: n/a Bible Chargers Lancaster Bible College is a private Bible college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania that is also home to the Capital Seminary and Graduate School. The college was founded in 1933 as the Lancaster School of the Bible. The school became a college in 1973 and started offering Bachelor of Science in Bible degrees in 1981. The college now grants six bachelor's degrees, one associate degree, and two one-year certificates in addition to six master's degrees, nine graduate certificates, and three doctorate programs in Leadership, Biblical Studies, and Ministry. Lancaster Bible College teams are members of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division I and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. In the NCAA, The Chargers are a member of the NCAA's United East Conference. Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, tennis, and volleyball; while women's sports include basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. The Baseball Field is the on-campus home for the Lancaster Bible baseball team. The field sets behind the Horst Athletic Center. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food offerings at the baseball field. Atmosphere 3 There is not much else in terms of atmosphere as it is a Division III-level baseball game. The team does have a PA announcer and plays walkup music for players. There are some simple metal bleachers around the first base side of the field. They offer decent views of the game, although through chain link fencing. There is also a small mound of grass that seems to be a popular place to set up a chair. Neighborhood 3 The college is located in a suburban area of Lancaster. You may want to venture to downtown Lancaster for interesting options pre- and post-game. Besides downtown, the main commercial areas of the Lancaster area are the outlets area east on Route 30 and surrounding the Park City Center Shopping Mall north of downtown. Nearby Lititz is also a good option as it has numerous food and shopping options. Fans 3 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few local area residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 Lancaster is an easy area to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are well-known, large roads that any tourist visitor to the area will be more than familiar with. Even though the college is located in a busy town, you will seldom find traffic to be too bad.  Lancaster is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. There are many parking spaces around the college. Return on Investment 4 The games are free to attend. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level Division III program at no cost. Extras 2 The college is an interesting visit on its own. There is a nice soccer stadium and other sports facilities nearby. There is a nice little disc golf course right near the Horst Athletic Center. Final Thoughts Lancaster Bible College plays at one of the lower levels of college baseball, but the games presented here are fun and it is certainly an experience that a true sports fan should experience if in the area.

Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey When we travel we love to find sports-related locations to expand our sports journeys. It is what we do. In Alberta and Saskatchewan, we found a great couple of sports halls of fame that are worth a visit. Our first stop was in Red Deer, Alberta at the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Located at #102 - 4200 Highway 2 the Hall of Fame is open every day of the week except December 24-26, New Year's Day, Good Friday, & Easter Sunday. There is an Art Gallery, Hall of Fame, Ice and Snow and Alberta Hockey Galleries, multiple exhibits, and our Orest Korbutt Theater. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. There is also discount pricing for students, seniors, and the military. The Hall of Fame was created in 1957 by the Alberta Amateur Athletic Union (AAAU), taken over by Sport Alberta in 1973, and has been maintained by the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum Society since 1997. Notable inductees include Lanny McDonald, Stu Hart, Bryan Hall, Red Dutton, and "Father of Modern Rodeo" Earl W. Bascom. #102 - 4200 Highway 2 Red Deer, AB T4N 1E3 Phone: (403) 341-8614 https://www.albertasportshall.ca/ Later on, we traveled to Regina, SK where we found the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame. Located downtown at 2205 Victoria Avenue the Sports Hall of Fame has three featured galleries. Hours are Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday Noon – 4:00 p.m. Admission is free with donations suggested upon entry. The Hall of Fame was created in 1966 as the Molson Sports Hall of Fame but was renamed the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in 1974. As of 2022, there were more than 500 inductees in the Hall, including 247 athletes and 127 championship teams across 53 sports. Notable inductees include Rueben Mayes, the 2013 Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club, Wendel Clark, and Kimberly Bergey Kaip. 2205 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 0S4 Phone: (306) 780-9232 https://sasksportshalloffame.com/ At both of these halls of fame, we found interesting exhibits along with fun interactive activities. We did not need to be super knowledgeable about the local sports scenes of these areas to enjoy the museums. We suggest that in Alberta and/or Saskatchewan you stop in for a visit. We also suggest that you look for similar exhibits along your own sports journeys.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 CFG Bank Arena 201 W Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21201 CIAA website CFG Bank Arena website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 14,000 A "New" Arena For Charm City The arena now known as the CFG Bank Arena has a long and storied history. It opened in 1962 as the Baltimore Civic Center. During its time as the Civic Center, the arena hosted legends such as The Beatles, Martin Luther King Jr., and Led Zeppelin, as well as being the home floor of the Baltimore Bullets of the NBA until their move to near Washington, DC in 1973. The indoor soccer team, the Baltimore Blast, as well as various sports teams have also made the venue their home over the years. The late 1980s remodel saw a name change to the Baltimore Arena. It also spent most of the early 21st century with the corporate name First Mariner Arena. and then the Royal Farms Arena. The Oak View Group, which was chosen by the City of Baltimore to manage the venue, closed down the arena in early 2022 to perform a massive renovation on the aging arena. The CIAA Tournament is the first event since the remodeling work was done. The official grand opening was the April 7, 2023 concert by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is a collegiate athletic conference, mostly consisting of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). CIAA institutions play at the Division II level of the NCAA. The CIAA is the first NCAA Division II conference to have its tournament televised as part of Championship Week on ESPN and it has become one of the largest college basketball events in the nation. The last day of the tournament is known as “Super Saturday” in which the men’s and women’s tournament champions are crowned. For 15 years, the tournament was held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The 2021 event was the first in Baltimore. The yearly event has now been extended through 2025 for Baltimore. Food & Beverage 4 There are only two major food stands open, along with various grab-and-go locations, for the event. This may change once the final renovations are done. It does appear that the arena is going to be more of a concert and entertainment venue that just happens to host a few sporting events along the way. This means the food and drink options are more aimed at the drinking crowd element than food. The Big Chicken and Koko's Bavarian Biergarten Brewery offer simple menus but the food offerings are quite good. Prices are not cheap but are at usual arena price levels. Atmosphere 5 The CIAA had been a major event in the past for Charlotte. It looks like the event is having the same kind of effect on Baltimore. Besides the tourney, there are concerts and events throughout the city during the event. A 14,000-seat venue is not a large arena, but not small either. A benefit of the unique design of this facility is that it tends to make it feel more intimate than it really is. Even the largest events there can feel like smaller ones. The effect of this also means that even less attended events can feel loud. Being a long, multi-day sporting event you will see varying amounts of fans in the stands. Some games will be more packed than others. There are alumni from all the schools attending the event and offering their cheers. There will be bands, mascots, cheerleaders, and dance squads for all of the schools, and they all offer a great addition to the atmosphere. There are some unique changes to the arena since last year. The main concourse has now been moved to the level above the main seating bowl. Walls have been removed to make this concourse now an open view to the action in the arena. This is a massive change to the venue. There are other changes in the seating bowl, such as walkways having been removed and new entry points being added. The arena had a single suite before the renovation and now has several suites and theatre boxes along with some private and premium club spaces. The arena has also gotten fresh paint jobs everywhere. The arena now has a grey and black modern look and feel. Neighborhood 3 The CFG Bank Arena is right in the heart of downtown Baltimore, with its numerous entertainment and food options close by. But the arena is a few blocks from the more touristy sections of town. And those few blocks can make a difference. I am not saying it is unsafe, as talk like that is far overblown in the city. One just needs to use caution and watch their surroundings. The 2015 riots in Baltimore City should not be forgotten, nor should they stop you from attending an event at the arena. Just be aware of where you are. If you do have some time before the game (or after…) a visit to the Pratt Street Ale House is only about a block away. They have good brews and food. Try the crab pretzel for a serious Maryland food experience. Venturing further away from the arena one of my favorites is the Abbey Burger Bar right near the Cross Street Market. The beer selection is good and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, all of which are likely to satisfy. For slightly more upscale cuisine a visit to the 1100-1200 blocks of North Charles Street where The Brewers Art and Sammy’s Trattoria offer good food at decent prices. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions such as Harborplace, Fells Point, and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is located on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, although its unique collection will not be for everyone. Fans 5 Tournaments will have varying fan bases, so it may change from game to game. I would imagine the extremely located schools have trouble filling the stands. Pep bands, mascots, and cheerleaders also make the atmosphere rival a big-time college environment. Access 4 The CFG Bank Arena is located in downtown Baltimore about a block from the Baltimore Convention Center and two blocks from Camden Yards. It is close to I-95, with only a couple of turns from the arena putting you on the highway home. Parking garages can be found in all directions from the arena. One garage is even physically attached to the arena. Look for parking deals to come with some event tickets. Street parking is not a great option. Return on Investment 3 The best value seems to be the all-tournament pass at $225. There are day tickets available and they do appear to be more expensive than in years past. Extras 4 Even with the updates to the arena, there are still some cool and unique seating structures around the venue. The weird old squared corner seats still exist but have now been rounded until a better format. The view should be much improved from those seats. It is things like that which will make the old-school design elements a feature in themselves. The fans themselves are an extra at an event like this. They support their respective teams very well and will make this an enjoyable event to attend. Check out the dance and cheer squads as they get the crowds excited. Final Thoughts This is not the same old Baltimore Arena that many may remember. The massive renovation work has transformed the venue into a state-of-the-art entertainment venue. And with a party-type event like the CIAA Tournament, you WILL have a good time here.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.19 Alumni Hall One Cunningham Square Providence, RI 02908 Providence College Friars women's basketball website Alumni Hall website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 1,854 The Original Home of Friartown   Alumni Hall was built in 1955 at the direction of Providence College President Rev. Robert Slavin. He felt the team needed an on-campus home to be competitive. Until then, the team had played in local gyms off-campus or in a small gym in the basement of Harkins Hall. Built at a cost of $1.5, Alumni Hall was dedicated to PC alumni who fought in World War II. Alumni Hall served as home to the PC men’s team until the construction of the Providence Civic Center (now the Amica Mutual Pavilion) downtown in 1972.   Providence College began sponsoring women’s basketball in 1974. They joined the Big East upon its inception in 1982. The Friars have competed in six postseason tournaments, including five NCAA tournaments. Their most recent appearance occurred in 1992. They reached the sweet sixteen in 1990. Alumni Hall has been the Friars home court since their debut.   In 2012 Alumni Hall underwent a $3 million renovation, which included the installation of new seating, lighting, air conditioning, video scoreboards and control room, sound system and other amenities. LED lighting has also been installed in the facility. Today Alumni Hall serves as home to the Providence College women’s basketball and volleyball teams.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a small concession stand in the atrium lobby operated by local favorite Saugy hot dogs. A limited menu is available, with hot dogs, popcorn and chips making up the entire menu. Fans looking for a drink will find bottles of Coca-Cola products, Powerade and water here. Prices are very affordable, as no item is priced at more than five dollars.   Atmosphere 4   As you might imagine in a bandbox of a gymnasium like Alumni Hall, when the building is filled with Friar fans and Providence gets rolling on the court, this place can get pretty loud, even without much help. But since the Friars athletic department is used to putting on a first-rate show up the street at the Amica Mutual Pavilion for the men’s team, they bring many of the same gameday features here to the women’s home.   The Friars take the court to a multimedia experience including hype videos and flame towers. The pep band, cheerleaders and dance team are all in attendance and perform throughout the game. The sound system at Alumni Hall is good and doesn’t need to be played at ear-splitting volume to be effective. There’s an emcee who coordinates some time-out activities and contests and some youth teams take the court at halftime. The PA announcer goes about his job in a professional manner, without much of the over-the-top theatrics that are common today. The one negative would be the video boards on each end of the court could use an upgrade, as the pictures are less than clear.  It all adds up to an entertaining afternoon (or evening) at the gymnasium. Neighborhood 3   Alumni Hall is part of a sprawling complex on the northern edge of the Providence College campus which houses most of the college’s athletic, fitness and social facilities. The Peterson Recreation Center, the Concannon Fitness Center, Ruane Friar Development Center, the Taylor Natatorium, Slavin Center and Providence College Bookstore are all built around Alumni Hall, which sits at the center of the complex. Located nearby are many of the school’s other athletic facilities, including Schneider Arena , Lennon Family Field, Ray Tracey Track and Anderson Stadium .   The Elmhurst neighborhood where Providence College is located is a residential, working-class neighborhood, so visiting fans will need to venture out a bit to find some of the city’s excellent dining, entertainment and lodging options. Luckily, downtown Providence is only about two miles from the PC campus. In addition to all the city’s attractions, the Amica Mutual Pavilion , home of the Friars basketball team, is located here.   For fans wanting to stay near campus, Stadium Journey recommends The Abbey, known for their collection of signature burgers and selection of 92 draft beers and LaSalle Bakery, where some of Providence’s finest baked goods can be found. Otherwise, we recommend you head downtown towards Federal Hill, Providence’s version of Little Italy, for more great dining options.   Fans 3   Providence College averaged just over 1,300 fans per game over the 2024-25 season. This figure represents a significant increase over previous seasons, but it still falls well short of Alumni Hall capacity and far below the Big East average.   As we’re seeing in gyms all over the country, women’s basketball is gaining new fans at a rapid pace. The same is true in Providence, as this is no longer a friends and family type of crowd. You’re likely to see a number of new fans, youth teams and groups filling the stands at Alumni Hall alongside the students, regulars and family members that have watched the Friars for years. Access 3   Providence College is located in the residential Elmhurst neighborhood of Providence, about a mile from Route 146 and Interstate 95. To get to Alumni Hall, fans will need to do some driving through the city, but the campus is still pretty easy to find. Fans using public transportation will be pleased to know that RIPTA’s number 55  bus has stops at Providence College and along Admiral Street, just a short distance from Alumni Hall.   Fans driving to Alumni Hall can park in a small lot adjacent to the Ruane Friar Development Center or in the parking garage on the other side of the Lennon Turf Field. A short walk will take you to the Ruane Atrium, where the concession stand and a small souvenir stand are located. The entry into Alumni Hall will be on your left. The ticket office and Providence College Athletic Hall of Fame are located here.   Fans will enter Alumni Hall right on the baseline, with the band immediately to your left and the Bathtub, the student section, immediately to your right. If your seats are on the upper level of the north side of the gym, you’ll have some navigating to do, as you’ll need to walk to the far side of the court, up two flights of stairs, and then circle back around to your seats. In this bandbox of a gymnasium, all seats have a great view of the action.   There are plenty of restrooms for fans to access here at Alumni Hall, and ample standing room at the top of the seating area. Lines at the concession stand and restrooms do get very long at halftime, so plan your trips wisely.   Return on Investment 4   All seats for Friars basketball games are sold as reserved seats for $20. Parking is free in the lots on campus, making a visit to Alumni Hall an affordable entertainment option for Rhode Island hoop fans. Extras 3   Banners hang on the walls of Alumni Hall honoring Friar conference championships and tournament appearances in both women’s basketball and volleyball. At the opposite end of the gym are several banners honoring notable figures in Friars history. Among the retired numbers here is Doris Burke’s number 11. Doris, who graduated from Providence College as the school’s all-time assist leader, has become one of the top basketball analysts in the field.   Outside the Ruane Friar Development Center is a statue of two of the more legendary figures in Providence basketball, Dave Gavitt and Joe Mullaney. The two coached the men’s team from 1955-1985, taking Providence from relative obscurity to a regional hoops power. Gavitt was instrumental in the formation of the Big East Conference and is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee.   The Providence College Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the entryway of Alumni Hall. Among the many notable names to be found here are several notable NBA, NHL and MLB players and Olympians. Final Thoughts   It’s great to see Alumni Hall continue to be useful 70 years after its debut. Recent renovations to the old gym have given Friars women’s basketball a home it can be proud of.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Murray Center 600 6th Street North Providence, RI 02911 Rhode Island College Anchormen men’s basketball website Murray Center website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 8,000 Anchors Away! Rhode Island College is a public college in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1854 as the Rhode Island State Normal School, it is the second oldest college in Rhode Island (after Brown University). The school was located in different spots throughout the state before moving to its current location in the Mount Pleasant section of Providence in 1958. Today the school has an enrollment of 5,800 students who study in 120 combined graduate and undergraduate programs across five schools. Starting in 1965 Rhode Island College played their basketball games at Walsh Gymnasium, which burned down in 1992. Its replacement, built on the same site, was originally named the Health, Physical Education and Athletic Center. It was renamed for sisters Mary F. and Catherine T. Murray, members of the Rhode Island College of Education classes of 1933 and 1934, following substantial donations by the Murray Foundation. Both sisters taught in Rhode Island public schools following their graduation from RIC. The RIC teams, named the Anchormen (and Anchorwomen), compete in the Little East Conference, made up of nine Division Three teams from around New England. The Anchormen have qualified for the NCAA tournament eleven times, reaching the Elite Eight in 2007 and the Sweet Sixteen 2010 and 2011. The Anchorwomen have qualified for five tournaments of their own, reaching the Final Four in 2023 and the Sweet Sixteen in 2024. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand located just off the lobby. The menu is hardly extensive, but it will do the job if you need a snack. Plus, no item costs more than three dollars. Visiting fans will find hot dogs, various snacks and drinks here. Pepsi products are featured. No alcohol is sold at this on-campus facility. Atmosphere 2 As you might expect at a smaller facility like the Murray Center, there isn’t exactly a dynamic game day experience to be found. As is the case at many small gyms, a basketball game is a more laid-back experience than at the bigger facilities. Most of the noise at the Murray Center comes from the proud parents in attendance cheering on their children. This is actually a good thing, because the sound system is really sub-par. It's very difficult to make out anything said by the PA announcer during the game. There are scoreboards on either end of the gym. The larger scoreboard on the far end displays more detailed game statistics. There's a decent turnout by the student body, who can really get into the game when the Anchormen get rolling. You won't find other standard basketball features here, such as a pep band or cheer squad. It's a basic presentation, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. Neighborhood 3 Rhode Island College is a self-contained campus located in a residential neighborhood. There are not any dining or lodging options close to campus. However, given the school’s location in the capital city of Providence, there are plenty of options just a short drive away. More information on local attractions can be found here . Smith Street runs in an east-west direction from the RIC campus to downtown Providence. Some favorite local spots here include LaSalle Bakery and New York System, home of the world-famous Rhode Island Coney Island wieners. Following Smith Street a few miles into downtown will allow visiting fans to experience all the best dining and lodging options Providence has to offer. The campus of Providence College is just a mile and a half away on the other side of Smith Street. Fans 3 A typical Anchormen basketball crowd can be accurately described as a “friends and family” crowd. Average attendance generally runs around 300 fans, and based on Stadium Journey’s most recent visit, this count is pretty accurate. RIC’s enrollment in the Little East Conference and a schedule littered with local rivals ensures that there is a strong family presence for players from both teams. There is no designated student section, but there is a decent turnout by the student body, who scatter in familiar spots around the gym. Access 3 The Murray Center is located on the western edge of the Rhode Island College campus, which straddles the Providence/North Providence line. Downtown Providence is about three miles away. No highways serve the RIC campus directly, but Route 6 passes close to the campus, providing the most direct route. Most fans will drive to RIC, and RIPTA busses provide service to campus. Complete information can be found here . Ample parking is located adjacent to the Murray Center. The entrance to the building is on the opposite side of the building from the parking lots, facing the main quad. Fans will enter into a small lobby, which contains the ticket booth, rest rooms and concession stand. The entrance to the basketball court is on the opposite side of the lobby. Seating at the Murray Center is located on either side of the court. Once side has individual stadium seats and the other side has wooden bleachers. Unfortunately, the seating is pushed back a ways from the court. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Anchormen games costs just three dollars, with tickets discounted a dollar for seniors and an additional dollar for children. With free parking and no concession item priced at more than three dollars, a night at Rhode Island College is a very affordable entertainment option for Rhode Island sports fans. Extras 2 Banners hang at the Murray Center on either side of the court honoring Anchormen tournament appearances, retired numbers and 1,000 point scorers. The RIC Athletic Hall of Fame is located on the second floor of the Murray Center. The Anchor Loge overlooks the court. Unfortunately, Stadium Journey has never been able to explore this area during any of their three vists here. Final Thoughts Basketball fans who dismiss small gymnasiums like the Murray Center are truly doing themselves a disservice. Combining intimate venues, affordability and quality hoops, hidden gems like the one found here in Providence provide hoop heads with a quality Stadium Journey far off the beaten path. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Aitken University Centre University of New Brunswick 20 MacKay Drive Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3 University of New Brunswick Reds website Aitken University Centre website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 3,278 The Red Standard In many walks of life there is reference to the “Gold Standard” which refers to the best of the profession, the standard to which all strive.  In Canadian university hockey, USports, there is the Red Standard, as in the UNB Reds, the best modern program in the country.  Since 1998, the UNB Reds have brought home 10 National Championships, including 7 since 2010.  The Reds have also brought home 22 conference banners. The University of New Brunswick is located in Fredericton.  It is the oldest English language university in Canada, established by seven Loyalists who left the United States in 1785.  The Fredericton campus has over 10,000 students, a significant number compared to the modest population of 79,000 in the capital city of New Brunswick.  UNB first iced a hockey team back in 1897.  By 1956 the student newspaper labeled the university’s different athletic teams with unique names.  The hockey team was dubbed the Red Devils.  A rebranding in 1991 saw a unification of all athletic teams under the Varsity Reds brand.  In an effort to make UNB athletics feel more accessible and less elitist, in 2018 the brand was once again retooled and they are currently the UNB Reds. Home for the Reds is the Aitken University Centre, which is owned by the University of New Brunswick, and doubles as the main arena for the City of Fredericton.  It opened in 1976 and has a capacity of 3,278.  It is named after Sir Maxwell Aitken, the former Chancellor of UNB from 1964-1982. It was also the home of the Fredericton Express and Fredericton Canadiens of the AHL. Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at the Aitken Centre are a solid step above what one would normally expect from a Canadian University hockey venue.  There are two main concession stands in the concourse, on either side of the building, with a couple of smaller stands that focus on beverages and small snacks.  The menus of the concession stands are inspired by local eateries Monk’s & Jonesie and The Snooty Fox.  Fans can find typical arena items on the menu including hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels and pizza.  Some of the more interesting items include a number of naan bread items like donairs, hot dogs and chicken, as well as some signature nachos, burgers and hot dogs.  A limited selection of alcoholic beverages are available at both stands and Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice at the Aitken Centre. Atmosphere 4 Aitken University Centre is definitely of a 1970’s vintage.  The exterior features brown brick on the lower portion while the upper portion consists of brown, corrugated siding.  The main entry is on the north side and features a banner listing the gold, silver and bronze medals earned in the University Cup tournaments the Reds have participated in.  The south side features banners for the 10 National Championships the Reds have won, and can be seen from the highway. Entry from the north brings fans into a small breezeway which houses the ticketing office. It becomes immediately obvious that Aitken Centre is first and foremost, the home of the Reds.  There are Reds markings all over this breezeway and into the concourses.  Collages for the Reds’ National Championships, the Reds All-Canadians and other markings are plastered all over the concourse walls.  Getting to the arena a bit early to peruse all of this is well worth it.  Above the eye level, above door height, all around the concourse are posters from the nearly 50 years of events held at Aiken Centre.  Although the concourses do travel a full 360 degrees around the arena, fans are limited to a horseshoe shape as there is no bypass around the north entrance breezeway.  The ice surface is north-south oriented with seating all the way around.  Approximately 15 rows of wooden seats surround the ice surface, with some makeshift boxes at the top of the arena.  The seats are most definitely the original ones from the seventies, but they are in very good shape and surprisingly comfortable.  The ceiling is littered with championship banners, too numerous to count.  Banners of note are the 10 National Championship banners that hang at the north end of the arena and the three honoured Reds just north of the scoreclock.  Banners for coach Gardiner McDougall, who won 9 National Championships in 25 seasons, athletic therapist Joe Glenn and the retired number 17 for Mark Jeffrey stand out among the plethora of conference championships.  The biggest drawback of Aitken Centre are the two video screens that hang on the north wall with projectors.  The technology is well past its prime and it is difficult to see the images. The gameday production at a UNB game is solid.  The Reds have an in game host who leads promotions and keeps fans interested during stoppages.  A 50/50 draw happens near the end of the game.  The speaker system is excellent and the PA announcer does a solid job. Neighbourhood 4 The Aitken Centre is located on the UNB campus in the College Hill neighbourhood of Fredericton.  As a city, Fredericton has a good vibe and is fun in both the winter and summer months. There are a number of places that are close by for pre or post game food and drink.  Some options include Wayback Burgers, Pickle Jar, El Mariachi, Maxwell’s Steak and Seafood and Picaroon’s Brewery.  UNB benefits from being pretty much the only game in town.  The Reds also dress a basketball team as well as other university sports.  Other tourist options in Fredericton include Quartermain Earth Science Centre, Fredericton Region Museum, School Days Museum and the New Brunswick Legislature.  The Best Western and Holiday Inn are close by for fans wishing to stay near campus. Fans 5 The Reds have been the dominant program at the turnstile as well as on the ice.  At the time of writing, for the 2024-2025 season, the Reds averaged over 2,800 fans per game, which ranks first in the conference, and probably first in all of USports.  It is of note, that the Reds also do not have a signature rivalry game at a larger venue that will skew the average attendance a bit.  UNB has averaged about the same for a number of seasons.   Access 4 Getting to the Aitken University Centre is not that difficult.  It is located on the Fredericton campus of the University of New Brunswick in the College Hill neighbourhood.  It is on MacKay Drive, 4.5 km north of the Trans-Canada Highway and immediately north of NB highway 8.  There is free parking on campus, and UNB does provide parking attendants to aid in getting fans parked.  For fans who wish to take public transit, there are Fredericton Transit bus stops on campus.  Fans should check the Fredericton Transit  website for fares, maps and schedules.  Inside the arena, the concourses are a bit on the snug side and the washrooms, although plentiful, are also on the small side. Return on Investment 5 Tickets for the Reds start at $12 with discounts for Seniors, UNB Staff, Youth and Students.  Kids under 5 are free and UNB Students are also free.  A unique feature of Reds hockey is that seats are reserved as opposed to General Admission.  Purchasing tickets ahead of time is a good plan.  Parking is free and concession prices are not too bad.  On the ice, the Reds are one of the premier teams in USports and it is not possible to be much more successful than they already are.  UNB puts together a gameday atmosphere that is as close to a major junior or professional hockey experience as you can get.  In comparison, the price for this experience is excellent.  Extras 4 An extra mark for UNB putting together a major event feel and treating their team as a major junior or pro team. An extra mark for the welcome Stadium Journey received from the Reds. An extra mark for being the main game in town. An extra mark for the remarkable success that the Reds have enjoyed both on the ice and at the turnstile. Final Thoughts It is difficult to find a program that has been as dominant as the UNB Reds have been in USports hockey.  They put together a very professional product both on the ice and in the gameday production.  When in the Maritimes, taking in some UNB Reds hockey at Aitken University Centre is a great plan.  All fans should see a program that sets the Red Standard for the others to aspire to. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Family Arena 2002 Arena Pkwy St. Charles, MO 63303 St. Louis Ambush website Family Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 9,643 Family Arena The St. Louis Ambush of Major Arena Soccer League is a resurrection of the former franchise that operated in the National Professional Soccer League, first in Tulsa in 1991, from 1992-2000. That organization appeared in four championship series while calling the Scottrade Center home, winning its lone title during the 1994-1995 campaign. In 2013, the name and colors of teal and black were once again revived for a new franchise to operate out of the Family Arena in St. Charles, Missouri, a 30-minute drive from downtown St. Louis. The Family Arena debuted on October 3, 1999, at a cost of $27 million in order to provide an alternative for sporting events and concerts in the St. Louis metro area. In 2013, there were over $800,000 into renovations to improve the facility; two large video boards and ribbon boards were added at each end of the seating bowl. The arena has seen its share of minor league hockey, indoor football, and concerts from Taylor Swift to Judas Priest. The arena’s capacity is officially 9,643 for indoor soccer games, but only the lower bowl is open for Ambush games. The arena itself is nestled close to the St. Charles River and a few miles away from the town’s historic downtown shops, bars, restaurants, and museums. The game of indoor soccer is fast pace and the club provides a nice little alternative to the sporting action that takes place in downtown St. Louis. Food & Beverage 3 The arena features the usual concession items such as hot dogs, brats, pizza, nachos, pretzels and popcorn at various permanent stands on the main concourse. A few of them are closed for games, but there is more than enough options to choose from at the game. A few of the more notable items include supreme nachos that are topped with chili and pulled pork and chicken tenders basket with fries. The options are basic and not over the top, but the prices are honest and on par with other venues of its caliber. The prices range between $4-$6 for most items, the supreme nachos are $8. There is a wide variety of beer and spirits that include Seagram’s wine coolers, Jack Daniel’s coolers, party bomb shots, wine, Lime-a-Rita, and wine slushies between $6 and $10 each. Draft beer sells for $6, mix drinks are $8, and double mix drinks are $14. If you are driving or do not drink, Coca-Cola products sell for $5 each. Atmosphere 3 The arena is broken up into two seating sections, with the concourse closed off to the public. The main seating bowl houses the majority of the fans, along with a high school band playing its own in-game music throughout the contest of the match. The field level seats are table tops and are located adjacent to the Ambush bench. Fans have an up close and personal view of the game and enjoy a buffet of deep-fried mini tacos and fried ravioli among other drinks and concession items. There is always active during stoppage of play including local high school cheerleaders and dancers, on-field contests for lucky fans, and various announcements. When there is in-game music piped through the speakers it’s a mix of house, remixes, and pop songs of the past 30-years. The Ambush even piped in “Midnight Express (The Chase)”, a 1980s staple at the Checkerdome during the old St. Louis Steamers days in the MISL Bushwacker is the team’s lively mascot dressed in team colors of teal and black; he is extremely active and greets fans young and old throughout the game. He even shows off some wicked dance moves when he introduced before the game. However, be careful of his mustache, its big. Halftime also provides various events and activities including a family soccer match, a bowling contest with soccer balls, a wedding proposal by an Ambush player, and a touching tribute to St. Louis legend and Indoor Soccer Hall of Famer Slobo Ilijevski whose family was on hand for bobblehead day in his honor. Neighborhood 4 The Family Arena is located a good 30-minutes from downtown St.Louis; however, the city does have a historic neighborhood along the St. Charles River that includes restaurants, shops, and bars. It is recommended to visit the picturesque little town. The options include Hendricks BBQ, 2865 Brewhouse, Amerisports Bar and Grill, and Big Woody’s BBQ. Sugarfire Smokehouse makes some of the best barbecue in the area and offer a wonderful Asian slaw and corn souffle as side options. The Old Mill Stream Inn has a fantastic patio to enjoy dinner or drinks during the warmer months of the year. A fun and relaxing way to get through town is to take the St. Charles Trolley which provides service with a 30-minute loop ride through the historic downtown. If you are looking to venture outside of downtown, the area is known for its many vineyards and wineries. Fans 4 The fans at the game enjoy themselves in various ways. They cheer on the Ambush in hope of a goal, talk with friends and families, or dance in their seats when certain music is played or when the camera is looking for fans to show on the two main screens at the arena. No matter what, the crowd is always in the mood for fun and show a lot of love towards the Ambush players. Access 4 Arriving at the arena is best by car off State Road 364; there is clear signage for the arena near the exit and it’s visible as you approach the parking lot entrance. Once inside, the main concourse wraps around the entire arena providing clearly marked signs for bathrooms and seating sections. The upper concourse hallways are draped off and the first 7 rows of seats from the bottom provide the best legroom for patrons. Return on Investment 3 The price for tickets begin at $15 for general admission tickets and top off at $47 for VIP seats on the field adjacent to the playing boards. The price of a ticket depends on your price point, but with the cost of parking set at $10, a night at an Ambush game is on par with a majority of other league franchises. However, if you are frugal like me, grab a $15 ticket, find your seat, and enjoy the game. Extras 4 1 star for the Northwest High School Pep Band that adds a college/high school atmosphere throughout the contest and also make for a nice change of pace from the dance and house music that is usually played at the arena. 2 stars for the various activities that take place during stoppage of play. There are ball tosses, free pizza to a lucky fan, and shirts thrown by staff into the stands between quarters of play. 3 stars for the table top VIP seats next to the Ambush bench. The fans are provided with food and beverage and have the best seats in the house. 4 stars for the variety of music played during the game. The in-game music is a staple of indoor soccer and what’s being played at the Family Arena is a collection of the various club, dance, and pop standards of the past few decades. Final Thoughts The St. Louis Ambush provide a wonderful experience at each home match for diehard fans and ones who are just there for a night out of fun. The music, on-field activities, concession prices, and interaction with players make it a hidden gem among the sporting events that take place in the St. Louis area.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Memorial Stadium N. Harbin Drive Stephenville, TX 76401 Tarleton State Texans website Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 24,000 Tarleton State Football - Memorial Stadium Stephenville is a city of approximately 20,000 people located in north central Texas. Known affectionately as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Stephenville is home to numerous world-renowned horse trainers and top-level professional rodeo athletes, most notably Ty Murray. Murray is a nine-time PRCA world champion cowboy and co-founder of the Professional Bull Riders Association (PBR). In 2023, no less than 42 (31%) of the qualifiers for the National Finals Rodeo came from the Stephenville metro area. In addition to professional level cowboys, Tarleton State University sponsors championship level rodeo, stock horse, and animal judging teams to solidify the town’s claim to the western themed title. Not just a one-horse town, Tarleton State University sponsors 15 intercollegiate sports programs at the NCAA Division 1 level – this season is the first full year as a D1 school; having begun the transition from NCAA Division II competition in 2020. The Texans football team currently competes in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS); the team qualified for postseason competition in their first season of eligibility. Memorial Stadium, home of the Texans football team, originally opened in 1951 and was named in honor of 179 former students and faculty members who lost their lives during World War II. At the time, the concrete structure had 32 rows of steel bleachers and seated 6,000 fans. As the result of several renovations and updates through the years, the most recent in 2022, the stadium now sports a turf playing surface, premium suites, an expanded concourse, various concessions, and a state-of-the-art press box, for a total seating capacity of 24,000. The commitment level of the university to compete at the FCS level is evident in the quality of the facilities here.   Food & Beverage   4 There are plenty of full-service concession stands and standalone kiosks along the concourse of the stadium selling various snacks, entrees, and drinks. While there are no major specialty items, there are enough options available for any fan to be satisfied. Souvenir cups are also available, and can be filled with a fountain drink, popcorn, or local favorite Texan Rider draft beer. Soft drinks are Pepsi products with Starry being substituted for Mountain Dew. Other beverages include Gatorade, bottled water, Celsius energy drinks, Peak tea, and several brands of beer, including Coors Light, Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, the aforementioned Texan Rider, a blonde ale from Revolver Brewing  specifically created for the Tarleton fanbase. In addition to the expected snack items such as candy, popcorn, chips and pretzels, patrons can also purchase cotton candy, Dippin’ Dots, or pickles to satisfy their cravings. To extinguish a larger hunger, items such nachos, hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, and walking tacos are plentiful; local eateries Chick-fil-A and Blaze Pizza provide their signature items as well. I would suggest a Texan Dog (sausage link on a hot dog bun) topped with ketchup, mustard, and relish chased by a cold Texan Rider draft.   Atmosphere   5 Football can arguably be compared to an organized religion in the state of Texas – the passion of fans to generate such parallels is present in Memorial Stadium on game day when the Tarleton Texans are playing. Hours before the gates open, fans arrive to begin tailgating, sharing food, and preparing for the game. The team is led onto the field with the band lining the field, cannons exploding into the air, and the Texan Rider racing down the sideline on his horse, reining circles in the middle of the field before departing as the crowd roars. The players then race out of the field house and begin preparation for kickoff. During the game, students stand at attention the entire game behind the visitor’s bench, screaming in full voice attempting to play their role in every snap. LED lights, loud music, and a high-definition scoreboard work in unison to create an environment where the energy is highest, and game play is at maximum potential. The most recent game I attended was not decided until the final seconds; both teams’ crowds were electric until the final buzzer. As the visiting team’s defenders knocked down the potential winning touchdown pass in the end zone as time expired, the visiting fans rushed the field, a sight I had never witnessed before in person.   Neighborhood   4 Tarleton is set in the center of Stephenville, which is a small town of approximately 20,000 people. The area around campus is mostly residential with many restaurants and fast food choices within a few minutes’ drive. The best options include Hard 8 Bar-B-Q , Grump’s Burgers , Don Nico’s Mexican Food , Newton’s Saddlerack , or   Caam’s Pizza Restaurant . Should you prefer an old school diner experience, Jake and Dorothy’s is a locally owned joint that dates back to 1948, the place where waffle cut fries were invented and chicken fried steak is their calling card; just carry cash as they do not accept credit or debit cards. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in town; some of the more highly rated choices include Hampton Inn and Suites ,   La Quinta Inn and Suites , and   Best Western Plus , among others. If you prefer short term rental options, there are several small houses and cabins available in and around Stephenville. On busy weekends, however, availability can be an issue.   Fans   4 Memorial Stadium is the center of attention on campus on many fall Saturdays. Official tailgating takes place in Texan Alley, located in the RV parking lot northwest of the stadium and bordering the track facility – this area is packed with tents, barbecue trailers, music, and plenty of beverages to quench any thirst. Most hosts are friendly, and the experience is well worth the trip. Once inside the facility, the student section is active and loud. Located on the visitor’s side behind the opposing team, this area also includes the organized groups such as the Plowboys, The Sound and Fury Marching Band, and the Texan Stars dance team.   Access   4 Stephenville is approximately three and a half hours north of San Antonio via US-281, or three hours from Austin via Interstate 35. From the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it is only a little over an hour’s drive. Once in town the university is easily accessible, with ample parking around Memorial Stadium. There is no commercial air travel into town and public transportation is rideshare only, which is limited at best. The best option if flying into the region is to fly to either DFW airport or Love Field in Dallas, Austin-Bergstrom airport in Austin, or the San Antonio airport, and then rent a vehicle to drive. Parking within a block of the stadium is reserved for VIP and suite ticket holders. Paid lots a two or three-minute walk from the stadium, near Wisdom Gym , are open for $10 via the ParkMobile  website. Beginning next year, however, there will be a new parking garage open on Washington Street. Free parking is also available across Washington Street in the baseball and softball complex, an approximate five-minute walk from Memorial Stadium.   Return On Investment   4 The time and expense of attending a Tarleton Texans football game is well worth the investment – with no bad seats, general admission tickets starting around $30 are sufficient. This is the average price one would expect to pay for playoff-caliber FCS football regular season games. Concession prices fall within the lower end of the price range for comparably sized colleges. With the quality of food and variety of choices here, the ROI for concessions is above average. Parking at $10, or free, within a five-minute walk is not unfair at all; all of this helps make the total package of attending a game at Memorial Stadium well worth the cost.   Extras   4 The passion the fans bring makes for a huge home field advantage. Student groups lead the student body to be loud and active the entire game; it is easy to see why football is the most popular team sport in the state of Texas, and the life force of student culture. The option for free parking within a short walk to the stadium deserves a nod – this allows fans to save a few dollars to purchase a Texan Rider or Oscar P Pretzel. Multiple drink and food options, along with plenty of concession stands and standalone kiosks, helps minimize time waiting in line, maximizing time watching the action on the field. The presentation of the stadium team, involving lights, scoreboard, music, and the announcer creates an atmosphere that is fun and energetic. There is an old West Texas saying that is applicable to the gameday atmosphere at Memorial – “If this doesn’t light your fire, your wood is wet!”.   Final Thoughts Tarleton State football, though a new participant at the NCAA Division 1 FCS level, provides a quality game day atmosphere. Replete with energetic students, supportive alumni, and high quality in-game presentation, Texans games are top notch events. It is well worth the time required to attend a Tarleton football game in the future; after a few hours of meeting new friends in Texan Alley, you can grab a snack and drink, then prepare to watch an exciting football game in an older stadium that has been renovated to meet modern demands. This is a sports stadium, though somewhat off the beaten path, that is well worth a visit.

All Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey This month, fans have seen the All-Star competition's good, bad, and ugly. The NBA was the ugly, the NHL’s Four Nations was the bad, and the Professional Volleyball Federation was the good. The league kicked off its first match at the Fishers Event Center near Indianapolis. About 7,000 fans were there this past weekend. There was plenty of excitement the moment fans walked through the front entrances of the arena. Life-size cardboard cutouts of players in the concourse greeted many. Others could pose for photos with family and friends. Two guys dressed as if they had certain connections with an infamous organization handed out game-day towels at the entrances. The teams were not divided into east v west, but by different means. Team Shondell, led by Purdue’s Dave Shondell, faced Team Collier, coached by Georgia Tech’s Michelle Collier. The All-Stars wore black and gold uniforms and waved to the cheering crowd as the announcer called their names. Coaches, league staff, and 10,000 online votes chose the two 12-team squads. Player introductions, Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Fans in the stands wore gear from the Grand Rapids Rise, San Diego Mojo, Orlando Valkyries, Vegas Thrill, and Omaha Supernovas. Many made the trip to the Indianapolis area. The loudest fans were from the Atlanta Vibe. They cheered for their four teammates on the team. The hometown Indy Ignite was there too, showing their support. Team mascots from the Indy Ignite, Orlando Valkeires, and Vegas Thrill were on hand to greet fans, participate in pre-game contests, and then put on a few moves of their own. The game featured a DJ, dance team, and live musicians playing during the breaks. If you have never attended a professional volleyball game, it is quite an experience. A quick look at the seating bowl showed some empty seats. Media crews gathered near the court. Young fans cheered with enthusiasm. Many reached for souvenir mini volleyballs tossed into the stands. CBS made a little bit of history by broadcasting the first women’s pro volleyball match on a traditional U.S. over-the-air network. The game featured NBA star Jalen Rose and Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson East hosting the league's festivities. Team Shondell celebrates a point in the first game, by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey At the end of the afternoon, Team Shondell defeated Team Collier by a total score of 58-47. Team Shondell won the first sets 25-22 and 25-20 and only needed to reach 8 points in the third set to clinch the victory. That came when Team Shondell took an 8-5 lead but completed the third set with a 15-10 triumph. After the game, Vegas Thrill setter Alisha Childress felt excited. She looked forward to future all-star events in the league.  “We want to continue this not just this year, but for years and years to come. We feel that energy; we can feel that that’s what we’re doing here. We’re older and we’re playing, and to see the younger generation get to look up to us, it’s our responsibility but it’s one we take very seriously to make sure they see volleyball at a high level all the way.” Members of the Atlanta Vibe cheer on their teammates from the stands, by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The league returns to action later this week in its eight cities until early May, followed by a post-season tournament. Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Super Bowl LIX Week has come and gone, and New Orleans showed out in a major way for its record tying 11th Super Bowl to host. Sure, the game was a blowout as the Eagles drummed the Chiefs 40-22, but the game itself was an afterthought, as nothing in it really stood out besides being the most lopsided Super Bowl in recent memory. What did stand out was the constant influx of parties, perfect weather, concerts, and fan events that overtook the city – New Orleans city was abuzz all week, from the spectacular opening night to the thrilling NFL Experience and the unforgettable parties that lit up the Crescent City, the city was on display like never before. This week felt more like a celebration of New Orleans than an actual football game. They call New Orleans a city of resilience, as there aren’t many cities in the U.S. that have had to overcome as much adversity. Whether it’s the frequent hurricanes, flooding, oil spills, crime, or the horrendous events that unfolded on the morning of January 1st. But Super Bowl week unfolded without a major hitch, thanks in part to the many law enforcement personnel standing on every street corner in the French Quarter. On the world’s biggest stage, the Big Easy proved why it is the perfect city to host big special events. I’ve never seen the city transformed like this before, from its huge billboards and Super Bowl signage hanging on every building, to the projected lighting on the St. Louis Cathedral each night. This year New Orleans was lit up like never before. Photo courtesy of the New Orleans Saints It all started on Monday night with the spectacle that was Super Bowl Opening Night – the final touches of the Superdome’s $500 million renovation were on display, as fans who couldn’t purchase tickets to the game were able to go inside the Dome and get a sneak peek at the Super Bowl signage on the field and concourse. This star-studded affair was broadcast on NFL Network and featured live music, special guests, and both the Chiefs and the Eagles coming out to take questions from the media. On Wednesday the Super Bowl Experience opened at Morial Convention Center and lasted until Saturday. If you’ve ever wanted to test your strength in an NFL combine-type workout, this would be your chance – they had bench presses, accuracy throws, kicking games, high jumps, vertical jumps, 40-yard dashes, and many more. Anything NFL related was on display here, from past Super Bowl rings and helmets to current and former players signing autographs. The Pro Football Hall of Fame even had an exhibit that looked like they brought the entire Hall of Fame from Canton. Flag football games also took place on the makeshift field, but the highlight of the night was seeing Michael Vick jump in and play quarterback for a random game that was going on. The pageantry of the NFL Honors was felt Thursday night at Saenger Theatre, where the best players of the year were honored. The red carpet was rolled out and the stars were on hand for the event, hosted by Snoop Dogg. Josh Allen went home with NFL MVP honors, while Saints legends Drew Brees and Steve Gleason presented the award for Walter Payton Man of the Year to Jaguars DE Arik Armstead. On Saturday the Super Bowl parade rolled through the French Quarter; nobody does Mardi Gras like New Orleans. With so many fans from all over the world converging on the city, what better way than give them a New Orleans-style parade with a Super Bowl theme? The king of the parade was Raising Cane's founder Todd Graves, and if that wasn’t enough to have kept you entertained, at night there were exclusive private and public parties, with concerts ranging from Chris Stapleton and Post Malone to Travis Scott during the weekend. At Mardi Gras World they had a collection of different festival-like parties going on, with Shaq’s Fun House taking place on Friday, a carnival-like atmosphere complete with games, rides, and concerts hosted by Shaquille O’Neal and Ludacris. Also on Saturday was the Sports Illustrated and Maxim Magazine Super Bowl party, followed on Sunday by Chef Guy Fieri’s Tailgate Bash before the big game. A celebration of New Orleans’ spirit and culture was even on display for Sunday’s game for the world to see – the pre-game show opened with a touching Nola Strong tribute to the victims of the Bourbon Street terrorist attack. Lady Gaga’s voice belted throughout the French Quarter as she played the piano from the Bourbon Street Memorial, with the NOPD standing next to Roger Goodell along with Saints legends like Drew Brees and Sean Payton. Jazz singer Harry Connick Jr. began the show in the Superdome with a jazz performance complete with the famous Mardi Gras Indians, followed by New Orleans music legends Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle’s performance of ‘America the Beautiful’. Another New Orleans legend Jon Batiste then displayed a soulful rendition of the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’. Emotions were running high when some of the victims’ families were on hand to present the coin toss, including the family of 27-year-old Lafayette, LA native Tiger Bech, and the family of 25-year-old Superdome video producer Matthew Tenedorio, who was also scheduled to work Super Bowl LIX. The best part about the whole week was the walkability between all the venues hosting the events; it is less than a mile from the Convention Center to the French Quarter and over to the Superdome. In that triangle you would find over 100,000 football fans from all over the world, as well as fans of all 32 teams converging on the city for the week. Even if you had no intention of checking out any of the Super Bowl events, you could have a good time just walking around the French Quarter checking out the sights, or people-watching the fans from all 32 teams. You couldn’t ask for better weather either, with each day being sunny in the high 70s. It’s hard to believe that 3 weeks before the big game, a record blizzard left New Orleans covered in 3-4 feet of snow; in a way the snow kind of cleaned the city up just in time for the Super Bowl. The big week had a huge economic impact on the entire Gulf Coast region, and was exactly what New Orleans needed after the terrorist attack on January 1st. With all the big celebrities in town, though, the biggest star of the week ended up being New Orleans itself. Not a day went by during the week without a famous celebrity or social media personality raving via Tweet about the city’s atmosphere. On the world’s biggest stage, the Big Easy proved why it is the perfect city to host big special events – whether it was the perfect weather, excellent food, or Southern hospitality, Super Bowl Week was a huge success. Hopefully it won’t be another 12 years until New Orleans sees another Super Bowl.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Blue Arena 5290 Arena Cir Loveland, CO 80538 Colorado Eagles website Blue Arena website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 6,800 AHL’s Colorado Eagles - A Major League Success Story The American Hockey League’s Colorado Eagles have a rink that has hosted organizational success in its two decades.  The Blue FCU Arena, the Eagles’ only home since the franchise debuted in 2003, has seen the team graduate from independent hockey to the ECHL in 2011 as a second-tier affiliate of the Winnipeg Jets, and then again to the AHL as an affiliate of the nearby Colorado Avalanche in 2016. Now, the Eagles are contemplating their future and have announced plans to leave “the Blue.”  In July 2024, they announced that they intend to move into a new, yet-to-be-built arena approximately seven miles away in Greeley.  Plans for the new arena are in their nascency and a tentative opening date has not yet been announced.  But the new Eagles facility will be part of a 5,000-acre development that will include a mixed-use entertainment district that will include a transit hub, a water park, and a hotel. Franchises outgrow their facilities, particularly when evolving from a novel, unaffiliated team into the wildly popular hometown NHL franchise’s top minor league affiliate.  But given the energy and enthusiasm the team has developed over its existence, the Eagles need to ensure that the new facility does not compromise a distinct home-ice advantage.  A game at the Blue is one of the better AHL experiences. Food & Beverage 4 There are a lot of food and drink options available around the Blue’s concourse.  Typical stadium fare can be found, most notably at the Snack Shack locations on the arena’s east and west concourses.  Those locations have a couple of specialty items that merit mention: the NoCo Dog (a hot dog topped with green chillis, pickled onions, and garlic aioli) and chicken bacon ranch mac and cheese.  A full bar serves cocktails, beer, and wine on the east concourse. What separates the Blue is the several kiosks throughout the venue.  There’s frozen sorbet, mini-donuts, freshly baked cookies and brownies, specialty pretzels, smoothies, and margaritas.  Most notably, a Dole stand serves pineapple and raspberry soft serve and these can be enjoyed in a float.  The Blue also has a full-service coffee stand.  Although it doesn’t offer traditional drip coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos are available for those who need a warm fix of caffeine. Atmosphere 4 An Eagles game is loud .  A first-class sound system is certainly part of the reason why.  But fans are enthusiastic supporters and bring an additional depth to the roar.  An Eagles game isn’t a social event so much as it is an place where people come together to cheer loudly for the Eagles.  Despite being only an hour from the Avalanche’s home ice at Ball Arena, fans wore player-specific Eagles’ sweaters far more than Cale Makar or Nathan MacKinnon sweaters, displaying local pride and signaling where their passions lie.  The Eagles matter to hockey fans in Northern Colorado; a game at the Blue is evidence of that. There is not a bad seat in the house.  The seating bowl only has 18 rows, so no one is far from the ice.  Fans remain in their seats during play and retreat to the concourses for reprovisioning between periods.  The Voodoo Ranger Lounge behind the rink’s north end is a nice place to watch the game, with a full-service bar and standing room overlooking the goal the Eagles defend in the first and third periods. Blue Arena Interior, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 There isn’t really a neighborhood around the Blue, at least not in the traditional sense because the arena sits amidst a vast complex of restaurants, bars, and hotels.  While the Blue’s location doesn’t have the feel of a “neighborhood,” it does provide a surprisingly good variety of non-chain options for pre- and post-game in the appurtenant commercial developments.  Ruben’s Grill and Cantina is less than a mile south of the Blue and, since opening in April 2023, has earned strong reviews for its food and service.  Other nearby eateries include Nordy’s BBQ & Grill and the Boot Grill, both of which are also less than a mile from the Blue.  Numerous chain restaurants also surround the arena, with Qdoba, Fuzzy’s Tacos, Chick-fil-A, Subway, and Carl’s Jr. in the immediate vicinity. Astoundingly, a ski area is also nearby.  Seriously.  The City of Loveland, Colorado, sits at an altitude of 4,997 feet and, frankly, bereft of mountains (which can be seen several miles to the west).  The city has a rich agricultural history of sugar beet and cherry farming.  Despite the lack of altitude and, well, slopes, Hoedown Hill opened in 2024, approximately four miles east of the Blue.  In addition to skiing on green (easy) and blue (intermediate) runs, it has a 1,200-foot, 10-lane tubing slide.  It provides a Colorado experience without having to navigate Interstate 70’s notoriously heavy traffic into the mountains during ski season. All of this can be easily paired with a visit to one of the world’s largest gas stations/restaurants/stores.  Travel stop juggernaut Bucc-ees’ only Colorado location sits about 10 minutes south of the Blue in Johnstown, CO.  For some, nothing says “hockey” like brisket sandwiches, gasoline, and more beaver-themed merchandise than can be imagined. A sports traveler may be able to do a double header and/or see several events in a weekend by checking out UNC (Greeley) basketball , baseball , or football or CSU (Fort Collins) basketball or football . Laramie, WY ( Wyoming Cowboys ) is 80 miles northwest and the Eagles parent club ( Avalanche ) is 50 miles south of Blue Arena. Fans 4 The Eagles are in the middle of the 32-team AHL’s attendance list in 2024-25, with 4,974 fans per game.  However, the Blue is the league’s fifth-smallest venue, limiting the team’s attendance.  Home games regularly sell out, with few tickets available for most weekend contests.  The fans who attend are die-hard hockey fans, devoted to the Eagles and very loud about it – with cowbells as the noisemaker of choice.  A chorus of enthusiastic cowbells becomes a chorus of angry cowbells when an on-ice fight erupts.  This level of enthusiasm makes an Eagles game well worth the hour’s drive from Denver or Cheyenne. Access 3 The Blue is equidistant between two state capitals: 50 miles from Cheyenne, WY, to the north; and 50 miles from Denver, to the south.  There is no mass transit to take from either capital, so fans traveling to the game from these locations must drive.  Most locals must also drive.  The opening of the Eagles’ new facility in a few years will hopefully address this.  Until then, the Blue is easily accessed from Interstate 25, which runs just to its west.  Once inside, fans can expect a tight fit.  The concourses seem narrow, particularly when fans empty into them between periods.  Seating is also tight.  Fans must contort themselves to allow other fans to pass through the aisles.  There are restrooms placed throughout the arena, though lines for both the men’s and women’s restrooms tend to form during intermission. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices in professional hockey are not immune to inflation and tickets to an Eagles home game are not cheap.  Face value on tickets ranges from $30 to $44 – if you’re sufficiently fortunate to buy them when the team releases single-game seats before the season.  Otherwise, a limited number of pricier tickets can be found on the secondary market. The team charges $10 for parking, as well, using an app (fans who do not pay the parking fee risk receiving tickets). Fortunately, food and beverage prices are slightly lower than comparators.  A cheeseburger runs $8.50.  Adding a basket of fries will cost $4.50.  Pizza slices run from $7 to $8.25.  Beer prices vary throughout the Blue, depending on size and style.  Domestic drafts tend to cost $10 and premium drafts cost $11.  Domestic tallboys are $9.25 and premium tallboys are $11.  Cocktails are $12 and $17.50 for single and double cocktails.  For those not drinking alcohol, bottled water costs $5, while fountain soda costs $4. Extras 2 The Eagles promotions staff earns an extra point for their use of clips from “Seinfeld” during promotional breaks in the game.  A clip of Kramer, asking Jerry in George if they “really want to have some fun” from the series’ 1994 classic episode, “The Marine Biologist,” extols fans to get loud. No David Puddy-style face or chest painting is required at the Blue.  Thankfully. The promotions staff earns another point, as well, for the creative use of the “Hockey Night in NoCo” branding displayed before the game.  It’s a play on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s long-running “Hockey Night in Canada,” localized for the Eagles’ northern Colorado presence.  This branding could be used more, perhaps on gear in the team shop.  Either way, it’s a clever adaptation of one of the sport’s greatest media institutions. Final Thoughts Particularly for a team that did not exist a quarter-century ago, the Eagles have created an outstanding experience.  Fans are committed to the team and the franchise seems committed to the fans.  While a new arena is likely imminent, here’s to hoping that the Eagles can carry over the great atmosphere and fan support that can be found in a game at the Blue.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Xfinity Center 2001 Paint Branch Dr College Park, MD 20740 Maryland Terrapins website Xfinity Center website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 17,950 Fear The Lady Turtles The Xfinity Center on the campus of the University of Maryland is home to the Terrapins' men's and women's basketball teams, as well as the gymnastics program. The name "Xfinity Center" typically refers to the main arena in the building, which seats 17,950 fans, but can also refer to the entire building, which includes the much smaller Xfinity Center Pavilion on the lower level that hosts the Terps' volleyball and wrestling teams. The Maryland women's basketball team has made 17 NCAA tournament appearances, including three Final Fours and the 2006 NCAA Championship. They previously competed in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), but since 2014, they compete instead in the Big Ten. Food & Beverage 4 The Xfinity Center has pretty much the same classic offerings you’d find anywhere, with main courses including hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, boneless wings, hot dogs, and pizza, as well as side dishes such as fries. Local chain The Greene Turtle has a stand which sells boneless wings and crab cake sandwiches. Fans with a sweet tooth can buy boozy ice cream as well as regular ice cream (by which we mean non-alcoholic, not boring) from the UMD Creamery right on campus. Alcoholic beverages are also available for fans of age. For those who require kosher meals, there is a certified kosher stand available outside section 121 selling items such as deli sandwiches and falafel in addition to stadium classics such as hot dogs and popcorn. Note that due to Jewish religious laws, the stand is not open for Friday and Saturday home games, nor on certain Jewish holidays where food cannot be prepared and/or served. Due to limited attendance, some stands on the upper level may not be open for women's basketball games. Atmosphere 5 The seating layout at a Maryland women's basketball game is different than it is at a men's basketball game, and provides the average fan a chance to sit much closer to the action. While the lower bowl for a men's game is typically reserved for season ticket holders and donors unless you buy at inflated prices on the secondary market, fans can sit in the reserved sections here for women's basketball games, and for games with smaller expected attendances, this may be the only area open. However, with attendance growing in recent years, the Terps will typically open the upper level of the Xfinity Center as well. While these seats are reserved for men's games, they are typically general admission for women's games, although this can change if an unusually large crowd is expected. The lower level seats are very close to the action, and only a few dollars more expensive than the upper bowl, so we recommend sitting here. A large videoboard overhangs center court and also shows detailed player and team stats. Before the game, the lights in the Xfinity Center will go out for player introductions as fans are encouraged to turn on the flashlights on their phones and point them towards the court. Flames will shoot up from a giant Maryland letter M placed on the court as a hype video plays on the videoboard and players are introduced. This makes for quite an impressive atmosphere. The Maryland pep band frequently plays during breaks in the action, and a giant Maryland flag above them covers seats behind the basket that are typically empty for women's games, thus simultaneously increasing the Maryland pride and making the arena seem fuller. A mascot, a terrapin turtle named Testudo, roams the crowd and the court interacting with fans and is beloved by all. Overall, a Maryland women's basketball game is an excellent atmosphere for fans to attend. Neighborhood 3 College Park is a small college town with enough in the immediate area to get by but is nothing special. There is a bowling alley a couple of miles away, and a bunch of chain restaurants within walking distance. If you’re looking for some local color, College Park Diner  is a favorite with residents and students alike and serves up comfort food 24 hours a day. Looney’s Pub  on Route 1 is a sports bar with dozens of big-screen TVs for your viewing pleasure. A couple of hotels are located nearby, including a Marriott  just off campus, and The Hotel  on campus. (Yes, the on-campus hotel is called The Hotel. Not a very creative name). That being said, if you’re looking to do more than eat and sleep, your best bet is to head down to the Metro station and take the Green Line into D.C. It’s about a 30-minute ride to downtown. Once you’re there, there’s so much to do and most of it is free. Whether it’s visiting one of the historic monuments and memorials, visiting one of the numerous museums, or simply walking outside on the National Mall, there’s something for everyone. All government-run attractions are free to the public, though some privately-run ones are not. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the Capitol or White House, you will need to reserve that ahead of time. Fans 5 Attendance at Maryland women's basketball games has been growing in recent years, and they now regularly draw over 10,000 fans a game. Games against national powerhouses like Big 10 rivals UCLA and USC may draw 14,000-15,000, while games against lesser teams, especially on weeknights, may draw only a few thousand. However, in general, the Terps draw good crowds, which are rowdy, raucous, and here to watch basketball. They know their team, and they know the sport of women's college basketball in general. Although Maryland always ranked near the top of the country in women's college basketball attendance, the crowds here have grown in recent years as they have nationwide. Terps fans show every home game why they are some of the top fans in women's college basketball. Access 4 Another perk of attending Maryland women's basketball games is that it is a lot easier to get here and get around than it would be for a men's game. Parking for a game here is free in the lots immediately adjacent to the arena, and if those fill up, other lots are available elsewhere. You would not be able to park this close for a men's game without making a sizeable donation or buying a pass on the secondary market at a high cost. You can also take Metro's Green line to the College Park station and take the shuttle bus to the arena, but it only runs every 30 minutes and makes several stops in between, so give yourself a lot of extra time if you do this. It is also a ten minute Uber/Lyft ride from the station, or a 35 minute walk, which may still be quicker than taking the shuttle. When arriving at the arena, you will need to walk up a large staircase to get to the main entrance. This puts you at the top of the 100 (lower) level. There is also an entrance at street level, but this primarily serves the Xfinity Center Pavilion. If you have a disability and are unable to climb stairs, you can enter here and take the elevator up. Otherwise, you need to go up the staircase outside. If you do need to use the accessible entrance, let the staff know you are attending the basketball game. Otherwise, if there is a wrestling or volleyball game happening in the Pavilion at the same time as the basketball game in the main arena, they may not let you in the building without a ticket to that game. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices vary depending on Maryland's opponent and the day of the week, but max out at only $17-$20 for lower level seats against prime opponents. Parking is also free, and close to the arena, which is a nice plus. The one downside is that concessions are very expensive, and will likely cost upwards of $25 per person for a meal without alcohol, and if you want to drink adult beverages, it will set you back even more. This forces us to bring the rating down a notch. Extras 3 Look for the trophy case in the lobby of the 100 level with Maryland's 2006 National Championship trophy. Banners in the arena honor Maryland's men's and women's basketball achievements. The giant Maryland flag behind the band is worthy of a star here too - Marylanders take great pride in their flag and are not afraid to show it at Terps games. Final Thoughts A Maryland women's basketball game at the Xfinity Center combines one of the best fan bases in the country with one of the top arenas. Prices are quite affordable for the whole family to attend and sit up close to the action, and the atmosphere is electric from before the game even starts until the moment it ends. Hoops fans in the D.C. area will definitely want to check out a Terrapins women's basketball game here.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Bright-Landry Hockey Center 65 N Harvard St Allston, MA 02134 Harvard Crimson hockey website Bright-Landry Hockey Center website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 3,095 Bright-Landry, Big City   Hockey has been played at Harvard University since 1898. With Harvard’s long athletic history, it’s no surprise that the Crimson sponsor one of the oldest squads in college hockey. Harvard’s first ever hockey game was played on January 19, 1898 on a frozen pond in Franklin Field. The Crimson lost to Brown that day 6-0, but their rivalry continues today, making it the oldest continuing series in the country.   Harvard has played on the site of the Bright-Landry Hockey Center since 1956. The Donald C. Watson Rink was the original on-campus home of Harvard hockey. In 1978 the decision was made to renovate the facility, which offered little in the way of amenities for fans or players. The original roof was retained, and the arena was installed underneath. The “new” arena opened on November 19, 1979, with a game between the Crimson and the 1980 United States Olympic Team.   The rink was renamed the Bright-Landry Hockey Center in 2013 to honor Harvard hockey player Alec Bright, class of 1919, and alumnus C. Kevin Landry, class of 1966 and family, whose donations helped to fund the arena’s 2014 renovations.   Hockey has been played at Harvard since 1898. The Crimson have qualified for 27 NCAA tournaments, reaching the Frozen Four 13 times. Harvard won the national title in 1989. Harvard has won the Beanpot Tournament, Boston’s unofficial college hockey championship, 11 times. 57 Harvard alumni have played in the National Hockey League. In addition, Harvard’s women’s team, which also plays at the Bright-Landry Hockey Center, has qualified for 12 NCAA tournaments, reached 6 Frozen Fours, won 15 Beanpot Tournaments, and won a national title in 1999. 24 Harvard alumni have gone on to play professional hockey.    Food & Beverage 2    The menu at Bright-Landry Hockey Center sticks to the basics. There is a concession stand near the entrance, along with a smaller stand on the south end of the arena that opens when there’s a big crowd present. This is just a place for snacking. Hot dogs and nachos anchor the menu, along with snack items.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Bright-Landry. Fans looking for an adult beverage should wander over to the adjoining Watson Track and Field Center, where the Crimson Pub sets up shop. Thirsty fans can purchase Sam Adams, Coors Light, Corona, White Claw and wine here. It’s not the same as in the old days, when fans would have to dash over to Dillon Hall next door to grab a beer during intermission, but it’s much more convenient.   Atmosphere 3   The game day experience at the Bright-Landry Center is typical of most college hockey rinks around the country. The first thing fans will notice are the large murals adorning the walls of the arena. These murals honor Harvard championships, titles, All-Americans and award winners. There’s a clear video board hanging at center ice that is put to good use, but which is partially obstructed from many points by the banners hanging throughout the arena. The promotions table near the main entrance hands out free roster sheets, posters, raffles and the nightly silent auction.   One notable aspect missing during Stadium Journey’s visit was the lack of a pep band. Stadium Journey visited during Harvard’s opening game of the 2024-25 season, so the lack of the band was surprising. Another disappointing aspect was the sub-par sound system. It can be hard to understand announcements made throughout the game. One more thing that was noticed by the author and confirmed by many students and frequent visitors to Bright-Landry: the WiFi in the building is terrible. Your Instagram posts may have to wait until after the game.   With New England being the home of a great number of Division One hockey teams (21, to be exact), and many of them within easy driving distance, it’s not unusual to see a great turnout by visiting fans here at Bright-Landry. Unless you’re wearing a Yale sweater, you’ve got nothing to worry about. This is a very family-friendly place to catch a game.   Neighborhood 4   The Bright-Landry Hockey Center is located in the school’s athletic complex alongside its other sporting facilities, including Harvard Stadium , Lavietes Pavilion , O’Donnell Field and Jordan Field . The complex is not located in Cambridge with the academic buildings, but on the other side of the Charles River in neighboring Allston.   While there is little in the way of attractions on the Allston side of the Charles, Harvard Yard is less than a mile away across the Anderson Memorial Bridge and up John F. Kennedy Street. Harvard Square, lined with shops and restaurants, is right here, too. This is hardly the bohemian center that it was in the days of yore, but there is no shortage of dining choices in the area. Stadium Journey recommends trying a burger and a shake at Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage.   The Harvard campus is one of Boston’s top attractions in its own right. Take a walking tour of the campus if you are so inclined, and take a picture in front of the statue of John Harvard, as thousands of others have done. Remember to rub his shiny shoe, it is rumored to bring good luck.   If you’re visiting Harvard from out of town and would rather explore the city of Boston, downtown is just a few miles away. Visitors looking to enjoy the working class charm of Allston and Brighton will find no shortage of bars and restaurants a short drive from the arena.   Fans 3   Harvard lags behind Boston’s other four Beanpot schools in terms of attendance. The Crimson draw around 2,400 fans per game, which puts them in the middle of the pack nationwide. Fans who come to the Bright-Landry Center are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the team, even if they’re not the most vocal fans out there (would you expect any different at an Ivy League school?).   The dedicated student section, dubbed the “Crim-Zone,” is rarely filled with Harvard students, as most tend to spread out around the arena. A rowdy student section just wouldn’t feel right here, anyway. During Stadium Journey’s most recent visit, the Crim-Zone was filled with random fans rather than students, who do turn out in decent numbers.   Access 4   While Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, the Bright-Landry Hockey Center is located across the Charles River, in the Allston section of Boston. Also located here are most of Harvard’s other athletic facilities.   Even on its best days, the city of Boston is a difficult city to drive in. The best way to get to the Bright-Landry Hockey Center is to take Storrow Drive to the Soldier’s Field Athletic Complex. If you must drive to a Harvard hockey game, bring along someone who knows the crooked streets of Boston well.   The recommended method of travel to Harvard is the subway, or “T”, as it is called locally. The Harvard Station MBTA stop is a 10-minute walk from the Bright-Landry Hockey Center. Several bus routes also stop at Harvard Station. The 66 and 86 busses stop directly in front of the athletic complex. For more information, fares and schedules check out the MBTA website . Parking is available throughout the athletic complex, but with only one way in and one way out, be prepared to take some time to leave after the game.   The Bright Center features a concourse which completely circles the rink. Seating consists of individual plastic crimson seats throughout the seating bowl. The small size of the Bright Landry Hockey Center ensures great views throughout the facility. Standing room areas line most of the seating bowl, and are popular spots from which to catch the action. While lines can get long at the concession stands and rest rooms during intermission, they move quickly.   Return on Investment 3   All tickets to Harvard hockey are priced at $20. Parking in the athletic complex will cost an additional $10. Concessions are priced a bit on the high side, but not outrageously so. Harvard is a bit more expensive than other college hockey rinks in the area, but still offers an affordable entertainment option for local fans.   Extras 5                                                                                                 Harvard showcases its lengthy hockey history throughout the Bright-Landry Hockey Center. Floor to ceiling murals line the arena walls as you enter the rink. Award winners, Olympians, past arenas, coaches and championship teams are all highlighted. On the far wall are photos of all men’s and women’s hockey teams to ever represent the school. Banners honoring the school’s conference championships, tournament appearances, and national titles hang from the rafters.   Notable among the banners is a crimson number 4, retired in honor of former Harvard player, hockey coach, and athletic director Bill Cleary. It is the only number that has been taken out of circulation in any of Harvard’s 42 varsity sports. No Division One school in the nation can boast more varsity sports than Harvard. Trivial Fact: Bill Cleary was Ryan O’Neil’s stand-in during filming of the 1970 movie Love Story.   The fact that the first game ever played at the Bright-Landry Hockey Center featured the 1980 United States Olympic team is worth a final extra point.   Final Thoughts   The Bright-Landry Hockey Center, while a fine facility in its own right, comes up short when compared to the other Beanpot arenas around Boston. It doesn’t have the history of Matthews Arena, the size of Conte Forum or the modern amenities of Agganis Arena. Still, the Bright-Landry Center is a nice place to catch a hockey game and a worthy Stadium Journey.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos created and designed by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It’s a cold winter’s night, with lines full of cacophony from the fans, and the action on the floor is palpable. Cheers echo off the wooded seats and bounce off the steel beams, and chants of a score are equal to the roar of a victory. However, the squeak of the sneaker is repelled by the grind of the roller skate. The game is roller polo, and it was the first love in the state before basketball. Indiana was gripped with “polo fever” in 1903. The sport blossomed like a tulip and attracted the attention of entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the sport. They built beautiful palaces, attracted top talent, and created a movement that filled the newspapers from Indianapolis to Fort Wayne to Terre Haute. Once the sport reached its peak, it swiftly fell from grace. What led to its rapid decline and eventual obscurity within a single generation? Maybe the old newspaper articles hold the story of a sport that seemed destined for greatness, if only for a brief time. Roller Polo is hockey on roller skates for today’s audience. However, there were differences. There were five players: two rushers, one halfback, one center, and a goalkeeper. They played on a wooden regulation rink of 80 feet by 40 feet with curved wooden sticks, shinguards, and a goalpost. Each game would be split into three 15-minute periods. The sport was first introduced in the United States from England in the early 1880s and received a second wave of popularity in Indiana in the late 1890s, thanks to M.C. Henley and a few others in Richmond. They formed a polo team, and soon, other cities began holding exhibitions of the new sport. In 1901, the Western League was formed and operated with three clubs. Around the same time, polo leagues back East were not as popular, and local polo magnates decided to entice them to Indiana with high salaries. Soon, the Western League became a professional entity for its second season, with the best players earning double $50 a week. One of these players, Frank Woedtke, was paid $110 to play for Anderson. The quick success of the sport attracted entrepreneurs who suddenly became polo magnates. They formed the six-team Central Polo League for 1903-04. These men built or converted existing buildings into polo rinks to house their new investments. There would be 12 teams, from Terre Haute to Richmond and Fort Wayne to Logansport, to satisfy the masses. Several new polo rinks were constructed to cash in on the popularity of the sport in 1903. Kokomo built a 3,000-seat building and called it “The Alhambra”; Indianapolis constructed a 3,500-seat auditorium, the Terre Haute Coliseum offered over 2,000 seats, and the Lafayette Coliseum had a capacity of 5,000. Anderson opened the Apollo Rink, Fort Wayne opened The Princess Rink. They all offered modern conveniences: electric lights, steam heating, and unobstructed views of the game. When leagues began play in November of 1903, the fans packed many rinks to see what the Indianapolis News  described as “the vim and fire that characterize polo are to be found in no other game. Its excitement is nerve-racking, and as it is “reasonably” dangerous, it appeals to the hearts of Americans.” The same newspaper filled the sports section with "Polo Dope" with box scores, statistics, stories, and recaps from all over the state. Next to this data would be advertisements for that evening's game, costing 50 cents for a box seat and 25 cents for general admission.  In Richmond, local businesses closed during matches, and employers bickered that employees spent the workday talking about previous or future games. Theater performances in Elwood closed during games, city council meetings were held an hour early on game nights, and many cities hosted amateur matches before the main event at home rinks. It was reported that over a million tickets were sold to polo games and Marion attracted 140,000 fans for 45 home games. There were 12 teams that took to the rinks in 1903 in Indiana and Illinois. Before the start of the 1904-1905 season, both leagues knew that they no longer could afford to pay top dollars for players, but team managers wanted the best athletes to draw crowds. The Central League paid reasonable salaries, drew crowds, and made money, but the Western League paid exorbitant salaries, drew crowds, and made a small profit. They decided to impose a $265 weekly salary limit, much to the chagrin of its players. Meanwhile, Central decided to do away with its $175 weekly limit and pay top dollars for players. Fort Wayne then announced they would pay $75 per star to join their club. Many players refused to take a pay cut and signed with the Western League. The Central had filled its 7-man roster and was in fine shape as its season approached. The Richmond Quakers were not happy with the salary limit and wanted to raise it to secure better players. The team almost left the league in dispute; they had the money to sign better players, but couldn’t based on league rules. Quakers president Micajah C. Henley explained his thoughts. “High salaries ought to bring the best players and the best players will bring the best crowds. The salary limit seems reasonable, but until there is assurance that every team in the Central League will not try to get players in the Western League there is danger. We must outbid them.” The 1904-05 season started for both leagues, but whatever peace was made between the two leagues was shattered when the Indianapolis Indians left the Western League for the Central League early in the season. The reason was that Marion Royals allowed Long John Wiley to sign with Lafayette Sycamores instead of them.  This led to all Western clubs posting a forfeit of $1000 to finish the season to discourage any other club from jumping over to the Central. When Elwood failed to post, they were having trouble signing players, they announced that they were ceasing operations. Elwood sold two players to Kokomo of the Central for $1,000, which was a direct violation of the agreement between the two leagues. Both players should have been sent to teams in the Western League. “While we realize that a war over players at this time would be a bad thing for both organizations, we will do everything in our power to prevent it,” said Foor. “I do not think we stand to lose by it as much as the Western League. We are not looking for trouble and will make any reasonable concessions to prevent a clash, but if a fight is necessary we can stand it.” Daily newspapers had plenty of photographs of polo players of the era The rest of the month, the magnates of the Western Loop tried in vain to add two more clubs. They suggested a new one in Indianapolis and contacted Cincinnati Reds management to operate a team. In the meantime, both leagues continued talks of consolidation, but the Central League did not want to add all four teams from the West.  The four-team Western League continued to struggle financially. Richmond lost $1,200, and only Marion made money. Anderson had only four players on its roster, and other members were unwilling to give players to strengthen the club. League president Norton had this to say about the situation. “This fight has not only been expensive to both leagues but has injured attendance. I believe that we are both ready to quit.” The Western loop would cease operations on January 16. Whether it was the fighting between the two leagues that was printed in the daily newspapers, the switching of players, the promises of new teams, or the same four teams playing each, interest sagged, causing management to call it quits. A few days after,  Anderson and Marion joined the Central League, while Richmond and Muncie closed shop. With the polo war over, you think the Central League would see smooth sailing for the rest of the season. It was not the case, clubs were shedding money, attendance had fallen, and there was still fighting over players’s rights. In many cities, the sport’s popularity was fading quickly, and managers of each rink were looking to get out of the polo business. The league would end one week earlier when Lafayette chose not to finish the season and awarded the pennant to Danville, who finished the season in first place with a 59-32 record.  The Central League would start a third season, but there was concern with salaries; the profits were no longer large enough to pay $300 a week for players. Two new polo leagues, the Interstate and National League, opted for amateur players and paid them $25 weekly. Danville president William Foor, who owned three clubs in these leagues, said it cost him less to operate them than his Danville team. “The managers and owners of these clubs are not reaping a harvest, but they are making money.” All one had to do was open up the newspaper to see if there was a game that night Unless salaries were cut under $200 a week, there was no chance of reviving the league for a third season. Another argument was that the public was losing interest in roller polo, according to the Fort Wayne News .  “The crowds toward the end of the season grew smaller and smaller until the general public gave open evidence of its impatience with the sport and stayed away.”    An eight-team league, minus Terre Haute—whose owner opted to transform his rink into a vaudeville theater—launched its 1905-1906 season on October 23. Teams were scheduled to play 3 to 4 games a week, with Sundays off, and player salaries were slashed to $50 for star athletes and $200 per week for the entire roster. The opening night crowds drew 1,500, but it was apparent from fans and reporters that the type of polo was slightly above amateurism. An elderly man in Anderson called it “punk” and said he had seen better play in local leagues, and one reporter said the following. Attendance figures fluctuate from as high as 2,000 in games in Indianapolis to as low as 500 for contests in Fort Wayne. Many of the best players held out for higher salaries and refused to participate in the league.  On February 11, 1906, Fort Wayne played its last game due to heavy financial losses. The Lafayette franchise shifted to Champaign, Illinois, but folded three days later due to poor attendance. Logansport players decided to finish the season despite not being paid. Only Kokomo made a profit, and Danville, Indianapolis, and Marion were ready to quit. The season ended with the top four clubs participating in a post-game series. The winner would receive the Hennings Cup, created to award the champion of the Western League, and be in storage at the Hotel Anderson. Despite some of the largest crowds in recent months, including 3,000 for the final day in Kokomo, a champion was not crowned. Danville and Indianapolis were 2-1 heading into the final day and were expected to play for the cup, but the last-minute change forced Kokomo and Marion to play one another, resulting in all four teams with an even 2-2 record. A $100 prize money was divided evenly among all players, and a majority of the players boarded trains the next day to head back east to start the New England leagues.  Fans no longer looked at the game being “on the square” and that gamblers were heavily involved with games in Anderson and perhaps elsewhere in the league. There would be no fourth season for the Central League for 1906-1907. Team pictures were taken with uniforms and equipment, highlighting the styles of the time. Soon, managers moved on to other business ventures, and players returned home to New England. The ornate rinks that were created for the game went on to hold roller skating sessions and basketball games, soon they were razed or lost by fire. Business and attendance were more profitable for roller skating sessions throughout the week and on weekends. Indiana had been cured of its “polo fever” and though there were revivals of the game, it would be played sporadically until 1958, but never reached the zenith it had during the 1903-1904 season. It had a good run of 4 years in small and large markets in the state. However, one has to believe that with better efforts by league managers and players, maybe it could have lasted a little bit longer. The tale of the two polo leagues is a reminder that some things never change in American sports. Salaries, operation costs, competition of players, and rapid expansion have killed many leagues this past century and will continue to do so in the future. If roller polo was allowed to grow organically without competition for players and high salary demands, who knows, it might have had a chance.  ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Trojan Arena 5000 Veterans Stadium Dr Troy, AL 36082 Troy Trojans website Trojan Arena website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 6,000 We Are Trojans One and All The Troy Trojans basketball program began in 1950 as a member of the NAIA, competing in the Alabama Collegiate Conference. After the 1970-71 season, they would move to NCAA Division II, joining the Gulf States Conference where they would play for nineteen seasons. The program would find a new gear in 1982 when Don Maestri was named head coach. Maestri would bring a fast paced, high scoring, three-point launching brand of basketball to Troy – the team would take on the moniker “Trey State” for the volume of three-point shots they put up, and made. It would be under Maestri that the Trojans would obliterate the NCAA single game scoring record, along with six other NCAA single game records, in a 258-141, victory over DeVry Institute. Maestri led the Trojans into Division I in 1994 when they joined the Mid-Continent Conference (MCC), now the Summit League. The Trojans played three seasons in the MCC before moving to the Atlantic Sun Conference (A-Sun), where they spent eight years before finding their current home in the Sun Belt Conference, where they have been members since 2005. Originally playing at Wright Hall, the Trojans would move to Sartain Hall in 1963, which they would call home for over 50 years. In 2012, they would move into their new digs, Trojan Arena, which replaced Sartain Hall as the home of Troy basketball.   Food & Beverage   3 There is not much by way of concessions that would be considered eye opening, but the usual suspects are plentiful. Burgers, hot dogs, and nachos are the featured items, complemented by popcorn, chips, and candy. Soft drinks come by way of the Coca-Cola family of soft drinks, while alcoholic beverages consist of beer from the Budweiser line and the Troy branded Trojan Ale. For wine drinkers, Sutter Home’s Cabernet Sauvignon is also available.   Atmosphere   3 Trojan Arena seamlessly blends in with the buildings surrounding it; its glass rotunda capped with a cupola adds a touch of class and grandeur to the building.  The impressiveness carries on inside where the exterior brickwork also finds its way into the concourse as support structures. Large, arched windows along the concourse allow natural light in, leaving a glare on the court. Rather than an overhead scoreboard, large video boards are located at each end of the court which predominately show a live video feed of the game, but also include player point, rebound, and foul tallies. A ribbon board also runs around the top of the seating area, but other than a small section at center court on each side with game score, time, team fouls, and time-out information, its primarily use is to display ads. In-game entertainment includes a mixture of scoreboard games, played mostly with students, and cheer squad performances accompanied by Troy’s pep-band, The Sound of the South. The in-house DJ also is a big part of keeping fans entertained during breaks. With the exception of bench seating adjacent to the band, most seats throughout the arena are cushioned chair backs in Troy’s cardinal-silver-black colors scattered throughout, with the Troy sword logo “T” worked into the center court section of seats.   Neighborhood   3 Trojan Arena is situated in the athletics cluster of Troy’s campus, directly neighbored by Colley Track and Soccer Complex and football’s Veteran’s Memorial Stadium .  The Troy city square is roughly a mile and a half from the arena. There is not a lot nearby in terms of entertainment, but Troy and surrounding Pike County have over thirty historical markers that recognize the birthplace of congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis, war memorials, and the area’s historical story. The Troy town center has a small collection of shops and eateries. Even though the downtown area is not all that expansive, it does offer quite the collection of options; B Graves’ southern dishes, Burgers at The Corner, Franchesca’s Italian cuisine, Cajun food at Bayou la Roux, and popular southern college town chain Mama Goldberg’s deli can all be found. In addition, BBQ at Moe’s and casual American dishes at Flo’s Kitchen are all within a block of Troy town square.   Fans   3 Last season saw the Trojans average just over 3,000 fans per game, with that number getting a bit of a bump when the schedule hits the conference games. If looking for an experience with the most fan influence on the game, match ups with in-state rival South Alabama  get a significant boost, typically drawing more than 5,000 fans. During typical games, a small group of students gathers in what seems to be the designated student section. However, many students choose to sit along the sidelines instead, which somewhat diminishes the overall energy of the student body.   Access   3 Troy, Alabama is in a bit of an oasis when it comes to interstate access. US Highway 231 has the most direct access to town from I-85 east of Montgomery, or you can use US-29 if coming from the west on I-65. Parking at Trojan Arena is somewhat limited, but several nearby lots provide convenient access, with short walks to both the front and back entrances. The concourses inside are generally spacious, though concession lines can become long and may require some maneuvering. For the most part, the court remains visible from the outer concourse on the far side of the seating area. A wide walkway below the premium seating provides easy access to court-level seats.   Return on Investment   5 General admission tickets start at just $10 before add-on fees, and there does not appear to be parking fees. Given the already low ticket prices, it would be hard to find a more affordable option for attending a game. Concessions are also reasonably priced, making Troy basketball a budget-friendly choice for a group or family outing.   Extras   4 The concourse displays historical synopses of every one of Troy’s athletic programs. Each looks at the founding years of the program, postseason successes, and the program’s standout athletes. It is a bit disappointing, however, that there doesn’t appear to be any recognition of the Trojan’s record-setting 1992 258-point game against DeVry. Banners hang from the rafters recognize division and conference championships, as well as postseason tournament appearances for not just the men’s program, but also women’s basketball and volleyball, which teams also call Trojan Arena home. Trojan mascot T-Roy is an active participant in the game experience – the nearly 7-foot plush Trojan soldier makes his way around the crowd, stopping for photos along the way. T-Roy also accompanies the cheer squad throughout the game, and also serves as a co-host of sorts during on-court contests. In a show of appreciation to the fans, after the game the team makes the rounds in the seating area, thanking fans for coming out to support the program. These are small gestures that go a long way in building the fan base, letting game attendees know the support they bring is not taken for granted.   Final Thoughts Comfort and elegance certainly was not sacrificed in creating Trojan Arena. While not small by any means, Trojan Arena also does not feel like a cavernous venue where the atmosphere can easily get lost in empty seats. It would be nice to see a more consistent and concentrated draw from students, however, who can really set the tone for a truly special college basketball experience, especially at the mid-major level. Getting to Troy can be a bit of a challenge, but once there, the game and experience surrounding it are well worth the trip.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Gilbert Craig Gore Arena at John W. Pope Jr. Convocation Center 56 Main St Buies Creek, NC 27506 Campbell Camels website Gilbert Craig Gore Arena at John W. Pope Convocation Center website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 3,095 Roll Humps! Campbell University is located in Buies Creek, NC, and competes in the Coastal Athletic Association. After playing basketball for over half a century at the venerable Carter Gym, Campbell University opened a new basketball arena in 2008. The $34 million John W. Pope Convocation Center at Gore Arena opened on November 15, 2008, as Campbell knocked off Chowan. The arena seats 3,095 and is arguably one of the nicest basketball facilities in the Coastal Athletic Association. Food & Beverage 3 Gore Arena offers standard concessions, nothing spectacular, but enough to get you by if you are hungry. If you are looking for more of a meal, you have three choices: a beef hot dog ($5), a chicken sandwich ($8), or a burger ($9). To go along with these choices are several snack items: popcorn ($4), nachos and cheese ($5), potato chips ($2), soft pretzels ($3, $4 with cheese), and candy ($3). Beverage choices include bottled Pepsi products and Aquafina water for $4.. Since Campbell is a Baptist-affiliated school, alcoholic beverages are not sold. Atmosphere 4 Gore Arena is a beautiful basketball facility and is the perfect size for Campbell University. Upon entering the concourse from the lobby, there is no doubt that you are at the home of the Camels. Campbell orange and graphics are plentiful throughout the arena. There is no bad seat in the house as the seating bowl is a single level with fifteen rows of orange seats around the court. There is a spacious concourse at the top of the seating bowl that also has great views of the action. All seats are plastic molded chairback, except for the three center sections opposite the benches which are padded seats. Directly above the padded suites is a 1,200-square-foot presidential hospitality suite. In 2016, Gore Arena added a four-sided, center-hung LED videoboard and scoreboard. There is also a scoreboard on each wall above the baskets. The Campbell pep band, cheerleaders, and dance team are all extremely into the game, and do a great job setting the atmosphere. Campbell’s nickname is the Fighting Camels, and they have not one, but two camel mascots. Gaylord and Gladys are the two Camel mascots that make their way around the arena during games. These mascots do not just stay in the corner like in many places. They are actively engaged with children and older fans alike throughout the game. As previously mentioned, all seats are chair-back. Due to the intimate design of the arena, there is not a bad seat in the house. No matter where you sit, you will have a great view of the action on the court. Neighborhood 2 Campbell University is located in the tiny town of Buies Creek, NC, between the larger towns of Lillington and Dunn on US 421. Its population is just over 2,000. Other than a couple of fast food places on campus (Chick-fil-A, Moe’s Southwest Grill), there is not much else to choose from. If you are looking for somewhere to eat or stay, our recommendation is to take the short drive to Dunn. It is located on I-95 and has a few restaurants and hotels to choose from. The larger cities of Raleigh and Fayetteville are approximately 30 miles away in either direction and offer many more activities if you desire. Fans 3 Most games at Gore Arena draw anywhere from 1,000-2,000 fans. Weekend games will typically draw more fans. Campbell broke attendance records during the 2018-19 season as they posted four of the top 10 crowds in Gore Arena history. A record crowd of 3,351 was on hand for the final regular season game on March 2, 2019, as Campbell won the Big South regular season title. Access 5 Other than the fact that Campbell’s campus is “in the middle of nowhere”, accessing Gore Arena could not be easier. Since Buies Creek is such a small town, there is almost no traffic when approaching Campbell’s campus. The arena is sort of the front entrance to campus as it sits at the corner of Main Street and Lesley Campbell Avenue. It is easily accessible from US 421. Parking is available in a large lot directly behind the Arena. There is one main entrance and lobby area at the front of the Arena. The ticket office sits just inside the main entrance adjacent the lobby. Once you enter there are steps to both your left and right that will take you up to the concourse level. There is little security to enter, just a staff member at the top of the stairs scanning tickets as you enter the doors to the concourse. For those who need handicapped assistance, there are elevators to take them to the concourse level. Handicapped accessible seating is plenteous on the concourse at the top of the seating bowl. Return on Investment 4 A visit to Gore Arena is a great value for those wanting to see quality Division 1 basketball. Reserved tickets are $15 in advance and $10 for general admission (in the corners). Parking is free, concession prices are reasonable, and game programs are free. Extras 4 Gore Arena has hosted the men’s Big South Tournament twice: in 2016 and 2019. Two mascots are always an extra; as mentioned earlier, Campbell has Gaylord and Gladys. All the staff are extremely friendly and are not overbearing. Campbell hosts the nation’s oldest basketball camp each summer, which has been in existence since 1956. Basketball legends such as Pistol Pete Maravich, John Wooden, Michael Jordan, and Ralph Sampson have all been counselors at Campbell’s legendary basketball camp. Final Thoughts Despite being in the shadow of three ACC schools (Duke, UNC, NC State), Campbell has done a great job being competitive in the Coastal Athletic Association. Campbell University may not be on your list for basketball trips in NC; however, Gore Arena has proven to be a great home-court advantage for Campbell and a visit to the beautiful arena will not leave you disappointed.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 The Eagles' Nest 1266 Barclay Circle Marietta, GA 30060 Life university Running Eagles website The Eagles' Nest website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 2,200 Run Eagles Run Known as being one of the top chiropractic schools in the United States, Life University in Marietta, Georgia has also built one of the top men’s basketball programs in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). After the college was founded in 1991 and athletic programs started play, Life men’s basketball wasted no time leaving their mark on the NAIA ranks, winning the men’s 1996 National Championship in just their fifth year of existence – the Eagles would also go on to win two more national championships, specifically back-to-back titles in 1999 and 2000. Originally playing as an NAIA independent program, Life University is now a member of the Southern States Athletic Conference.   Food & Beverage   0 There is a concession stand in the main lobby of The Eagles’ Nest, but despite appearing to be stocked, it was not open during multiple visits; it is unclear if that is due to poor game selections on my part, or if Life University simply chooses not to operate a concession stand during games.   Atmosphere   3 With many programs at the lower end of college basketball’s organizational structure, the facilities are often multi-purpose – The Eagle’s Nest follows a similar pattern where the gym is part of Life University’s student health and wellness center. That said the gymnasium is rather pedestrian, consisting almost exclusively of plastic bleacher seating with a small section of individual seats at half court, opposite the scorer’s table. Large sections of bleachers also run up each end of the floor along the baseline. LED scoreboards hang from the ceiling in opposite corners of the gym, providing basic time, score, and foul information. There is not a lot to fill breaks in the action other than an in-house DJ; while this might create a stale atmosphere at higher levels, because the basketball games at Life University are not nationally televised games, there are not excessive nor extended timeouts due to commercial breaks, so the game moves along at a steady clip. During the breaks it is not uncommon for fans, mostly students, to gather in groups and dance to the music being played. In addition, throughout the game Life’s mascot, Doc, works the sideline, getting fans to chant “Defense” or simply just get loud.   Neighborhood   3 The Eagle’s Nest is an on-campus facility on the Marietta campus of Life University, which is sandwiched between US Highway 41 to the north and South Cobb Drive to the south. Highway 41 is one of the most heavily populated areas of car dealerships in Cobb County, while South Cobb Drive serves mostly as an artery between eastern and southern Cobb County, in addition to creating the northern boundary of Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Cobb Parkway has a handful of chain restaurants, so several familiar choices are available. If seeking more unique options, the Barclay Village strip mall at the entrance of Life University’s campus includes a pair of international restaurants that serve Middle Eastern and Venezuelan foods. The popular southern 24-hour breakfast diner, Waffle House, is also in that plaza, and just over a mile up Cobb Parkway is another 24-hour diner, Marietta Diner, which has been featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives . In the opposite direction, 4-miles to the south, is The Battery Atlanta, home of the Atlanta Braves , which has numerous restaurants as well.   Fans   2 Life University basketball fans do a decent job filling out the bleachers on either side of the court and are into the ebbs and flows of the game. They react as expected to big plays, celebrating three pointers in clutch moments and highlight reel-worthy dunks, and are quick to protest borderline calls with typical home court jeers. Even though there does appear to be a designated student section and a decent number of students in attendance, the student body does seem fractured throughout the stands. There are enough that they could create a significant home court advantage, but they just do not seem to be organized enough to create an intimidating environment for visiting teams. Life University’s basketball schedule does not seem to help much in filling the stands either, as most of their games are either weeknights or early Saturday afternoon games, both of which times can be challenging in attracting fans.   Access   3 Life University’s main entry is directly off US-41 (Cobb Parkway), parallel to Interstate 75 through Atlanta’s northwestern suburbs in Cobb County. The area is commonly known for challenging interstate traffic during the evening rush hour surge. Cobb County Transit does have a stop at the school’s main entrance on Cobb Parkway, but it is probably not the most efficient way to access the campus. Parking lots are located at both the front and back of the gym – the lot closest to the gym is a bit small, so it may be full for late arrivers. The larger parking area along Barclay Circle does leave a bit of a walk across a skybridge through the tree canopy and over Rottenwood Creek, but that truly is a beautiful stroll. A third, but much smaller, lot is just down the hill from the front doors of The Eagles’ Nest. Once in the wellness center, doors on both sides of the lobby access seats along the sidelines and baselines. Both sides have enough room to be passable, but do obstruct the view of those sitting in the lower rows of sideline seating. Given the layout of the gym, sitting higher up is no worse of a view than being in the first few rows.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets can be purchased upon entry for $10 or ahead of time online for $7. After accounting for service fees, buying online saves roughly $1.50 for a single ticket, or approximately 5% for each ticket purchased – this price seems to be in the neighborhood of what you would expect at other NAIA basketball games. With no charge for parking and a lack of concessions to be factored in, Life University does provide an affordable college basketball experience.   Extras   3 Life University’s eagle mascot, Doc, remains an active part of the game throughout, making its way around the court interacting with fans. Life University also makes sure to recognize the accomplishments of their athletic programs with trophy cases proudly displaying championships won from many of the Eagles teams. In addition, a banner hangs from the gym’s rafters recognizing the Eagles three NAIA men’s basketball championships in four years (1997, 1999, and 2000). A nature trail runs along Rottonwood Creek just outside of the wellness center, and the trail is also home to “The 19th-Century Village”, with an 1800s-style log cabin and grist mill. This area is a nice place simply to escape to for a bit, and explore nature before heading into the gym.   Final Thoughts The Life University basketball experience is not one that provides a lot by way of extra pizzaz, but the Eagles are often a highly competitive team in the NAIA ranks, so there is a pretty good chance the game itself should be entertaining. Though some of the amenities found at similar sized programs seem to be lacking here, most notably concessions, there is certainly enough surrounding the game at The Eagles’ Nest to keep the interest of even the most passive of basketball fans.

Championship photo courtesy of Boston University athletics All other Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 TD Garden 100 Legends Way Boston, MA 02114 Dunkin' Beanpot website TD Garden website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 17,850 The Beanpot   Some events are uniquely Boston. The Marathon. The Head of the Charles. A ballgame at Fenway. On par with these events is a college hockey tournament held every year on the first two Mondays in February. Pitting the four Division One hockey teams in Boston ( Boston College , Boston University , Harvard  and Northeastern ) against each other, the Beanpot is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious college hockey tournament.   The Beanpot started in 1952 as a way to fill a couple of empty dates at the old Boston Arena. Now held at TD Garden, the Beanpot is Boston hockey’s unofficial championship. No matter what happens in conference play or the national tournament, if your team wins the Beanpot, you are Boston’s college hockey champion.   In 2023 The Beanpot entered into a sponsorship agreement with Dunkin’, rechristening the tournament as “The Dunkin’ Beanpot.” This is the first time the tournament has had a title sponsor.   The TD Garden is the home of both the NBA’s Boston Celtics  and the NHL’s Boston Bruins . When the facility was under construction in the mid-1990s, plans stated the arena would be located “just north” of the Boston Garden. “Just north” ended up being nine inches away. Food & Beverage 4   Stands at the TD Garden are organized by their menus, so hungry fans may have to do some searching to find what they want. All the expected arena staples can be found at the many stands along the concourses. Vegetarian, vegan, kosher and gluten free items are available throughout TD Garden. An evolving feature of the concessions here is an increase in self-serve and “Just Walk Out” areas. For your best value, try a super slice at Sal’s Pizza. Hub Hot Dogs offers a family-friendly menu without alcohol sales. Coca-Cola products are featured at TD Garden. A more in-depth description of the menu, including a map of all concessions, can be  found here.   Fans looking for an adult beverage will have no problem finding what they want at TD Garden. Draft and bottled beers are available throughout the facility. The Silver Bullet Bar and Sam Adams Brew House on Level 4, as well as the Bud Light Blue Zone and Craft Beer Garden on Level 7, offer a wide selection of national brands and local craft brews for thirsty fans. New social areas, including The Rafters Club on Level 9 and the Top Shelf Bar at the top of the Balcony seating area, offer alternative ways to watch the action.   Be warned that you will be paying NHL concession prices during the Beanpot. TD Garden is a cashless facility.   Atmosphere 5   Among the best facets of any college hockey game are the noise and excitement generated by a school’s pep band and student section. At the Beanpot, you get four of each. Not only do the players compete, but so do the student sections and the bands. It makes for an electric atmosphere.   At the Beanpot, you have four schools where hockey is the premier sport, vying for bragging rights in a city where pucks are king. Student sections compete to one-up each other in a (mostly) friendly back and forth. There is no need for piped in music here, the pep bands make sure the Garden is filled with noise during all play stoppages. Competitions between students during play stoppages add to the playful atmosphere at the Beanpot.   Despite the fact that three of these schools are members of the Hockey East Conference, and Beanpot games do not count in league standings, these are no mere exhibition games. You would be hard pressed to find a more intense atmosphere, even during the national tournament. The battle for Boston hockey bragging rights is taken most seriously, on the ice and in the stands. Neighborhood 5   The TD Garden is located adjacent to Boston’s historic North End, the city’s version of “Little Italy.” Many visiting fans enjoy walking down Hanover Street, taking in the sights and smells.   Local hockey fans flock to Bruin legend Ray Bourque’s restaurant, Tresca. Be sure to grab a couple of cannolis from Mike’s Pastry while here, or head to Regina’s Pizzeria, one of the top places in the country to get a slice of pizza.   While many of the legendary restaurants near the Garden have closed recently, there are still plenty of great options just steps from the venue. The Harp, Hurricane’s at the Garden and of course, Halftime King of Pizza highlight the choices. Fans looking for convenient lodging will find a Courtyard by Marriot, CitizenM Downtown and Hotel Indigo all within a few blocks of the Garden.   Walk just a bit further south, and you will arrive at Faneuil Hall, a collection of restaurants, shops and clubs that is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. While here be sure to check out The Union Oyster House, the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the nation and home of the city’s best clam chowder.   Fans looking to explore Boston’s rich history can follow the Freedom Trail, which passes only a few blocks from the Garden. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long brick-lined route that connects 16 of Boston’s most significant historic sites.  This walking tour winds throughout the city and is one of the best ways to explore Boston. Several points of interest are located near the Garden, including Paul Revere’s House, the Boston Massacre site, the Old North Church and Copp’s Burial Ground.   Fans 5   There is an old adage in American hockey circles that states to find the most knowledgeable, passionate fans in the United States, head to the three “M’s” (Massachusetts, Minnesota and Michigan). Having four teams from the “Hub of Hockey” matched up over two Mondays in February is an annual highlight of the Boston winter sports scene.   All four schools represent in full force for the Beanpot, with rivalries switching like some reality show based on the day’s matchups. In addition to packed student sections in the balcony, alums and local fans come out to support their teams in great numbers.   Crowds at the Beanpot annually total over 14,000 for both days, with capacity crowds not an unusual occurrence. While it is possible to get tickets at the last minute, it’s not recommended. For the best Beanpot experience, get tickets to the second Monday, when the championship is decided. Access 3   Boston is certainly not an easy city to navigate. City streets, which date all the way back to colonial times, are laid out in seemingly random directions. Traffic jams and never-ending construction projects are the norm here. While the Garden is located adjacent to Interstate 93, even the most direct route off the highway (Exit 26-Storrow Drive) requires several twists and turns to reach the arena.   The best way to get to TD Garden is to take public transportation, known in Boston as the “T.” The arena is located directly on top of the North Station MBTA commuter rail station, bringing in fans from all parts of suburban Boston. For fans taking the subway, both the green and orange lines stop at North Station, right across the street from TD Garden. The $2.40 one-way fare makes the “T” Stadium Journey’s recommendation for avoiding the hassle of driving.   Although there are many options for parking in the area around the Garden it can be quite expensive to park here. There is a 5-level garage located directly underneath the Garden which charges $65 for event parking. There are several surface lots and garages in the immediate area which charge $35 and up for parking. There is little on-street parking to be found in the area.   Over the years the TD Garden has undergone a great deal of renovation designed to improve flow into and around the venue as well as the creation of several new social gathering areas throughout the Garden. Some of these areas, such as the Rafters on Level 9, are among the most coveted tickets in the building.   Return on Investment 2   The Beanpot is a single admission event, with one ticket granting access to both games. Face value of tickets runs about $45-60. Tickets can go fast, and prices on the secondary market rise quickly as the tournament approaches. Look for deals on the second Monday, as fans whose schools are eliminated look to get rid of their unwanted tickets.   An unfortunate side effect of holding a tournament at an NHL facility is that you will be paying major league prices for parking and concessions. Parking at the North Station Garage will cost a staggering $65. Using parking apps to find spots in local garages and lots will reduce prices significantly, but you can still expect to pay $35 and up to park. There are no discounts on concessions for the Beanpot, and the prices at the Garden rank among the highest in the NHL.   As mentioned earlier, taking the “T” to the Garden not only saves fans the aggravation of fighting the always-present Boston traffic, but is much more economical. A one-way ticket on the T costs $2.40, eliminating the hassle of dealing with rush hour traffic and overpriced parking. The Commuter Rail drops fans off directly beneath the arena, and both the green and orange lines stop right across the street from the TD Garden. Extras 5   The Beanpot has proven to be such an iconic event that the four schools also compete in a women’s Beanpot Tournament (the finals are also held at the TD Garden), and a baseball Beanpot played at Fenway Park. Other Beanpots have popped up over the years, including soccer, softball, basketball, lacrosse, rowing, cycling, a concert band Beanpot, a Beanpot of Comedy, and a rice and Beanpot-burrito eating competition.   The Beanpot has its own Hall of Fame, commemorating those players who have distinguished themselves over their Beanpot careers. Countless NHL players have played in the Beanpot, including Hockey Hall of Famers Joe Mullen, Fern Flaman and Cooney Weiland.   Proudly displayed among the many Bruins and Celtics banners hanging from the TD Garden rafters are a pair of banners dedicated to the men’s and women’s Beanpot. There is also a display on the concourse displaying the Beanpot trophy.   The Sports Museum is perhaps the greatest hidden sporting gem in Boston, it’s a must see for any sports fan visiting the city. Located on levels 5 and 6 of the Garden, The Sports Museum features items celebrating the city’s long and storied sports history, from the pros to high school teams. Located within walking distance of the Garden are statues honoring Boston sports icons Bobby Orr, Red Auerbach and Bill Russell.   A final point is awarded for the Beanpot Trophy presentation. Immediately upon conclusion of the championship, the Beanpot banner is lowered from the rafters and the new champion’s name is attached. When the Beanpot is awarded to the tournament champions, the players parade it around the ice just like the pros do with the Stanley Cup. Final Thoughts   Boston’s unofficial hockey championship is the premier college hockey tournament in the nation. Consisting of four schools all located within five miles of each other, which are annually among the top-ranked teams in the country makes for a legendary event. The Beanpot is a bucket list item for any sports fan, whether or not you follow college hockey.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena 1320 Pactolas Road Johnson City, TN 37614 East Tennessee State Buccaneers website Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 6,177 Go Bucs, Go! Basketball has been played at East Tennessee State University since 1918, but its first official game would come the following year against Carson-Newman College (now University). Throughout its early years the Buccaneers would play as members of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), as well as members of NCAA’s Division II. The athletics program would first play as an NCAA Division I program as members of the Ohio Valley Conference in 1957, where they would play until 1978 before jumping to the Southern Conference, where they have played ever since. The Bucs have played at the Johnson City owned Freedom Hall since 2014. Prior to their move off campus, East Tennessee State played at the multi-purpose “Mini Dome”, which had more the feel of a large field house or airplane hangar than a basketball arena. Though the Mini Dome, now known as Ballard Health Athletic Center, might not have had the feel of a traditional college basketball arena, it certainly was uniquely East Tennessee State’s home.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions are a bit on the limited side here, with options ranging from hot dogs, pizza slices, nachos with cheese dip, and soft pretzels. The most impressive menu item is the Frito or Dorito-based walking taco. Chips, packaged candy, and cotton candy are also available. Beverages come from the Pepsi family of soft drinks; Gatorade and the locally popular Dr. Enuf, a “lemon-lime, vitamin-fortified soda”, are also offered. Alcoholic beverages include beers from the Miller/Coors collection as well as craft-style brews, such as nearby Asheville’s Wicked Weed and Sierra Nevada’s Hazy Little Thing. White Claw hard seltzer and Clubtails canned mixed cocktails are also available. What is a bit disappointing is that, given Johnson City’s strong craft brewing community, none of the local brewers appear to be represented at Freedom Hall.   Atmosphere   4 From the exterior, Freedom Hall appears as a behemothian brick structure with not much more than a trickle of natural light able to sneak in. There is not much that is esthetically pleasing, nor all that remarkable about the exterior of the building. In an example of not being able to judge a book by its cover though, inside Freedom Hall is a truly special college basketball experience. Freedom Hall does a good job putting fans on top of the action – rather than a press row, scorer’s table type seating runs the entirety of the sideline court, and seating is also available along the home end baseline. The primary seating area is elevated about the court, creating a bit of a pit feel. Court level seating also backs the courtside seats, extending from the first cut of split-level seating to bring more fans toward the floor. There is no traditional overhead scoreboard inside Freedom Hall, but instead there are scoreboards with time-and-score situated on the walls in each corner at court level. Player statistics can be found on the scorer's table and facing the courtside seating. In addition, a video board running a live video feed of the game is attached to the highest reaches at the far end of the upper-level seating. The in-game promotions crew no doubt earns their paycheck; nary a television timeout passes without some sort of on-court game or promotion. While some promos are commonplace, such as a fan making shots from various spots on the floor, the free throws while laying back in a recliner or the layup tic-tac-toe competition are refreshingly original – they are nice to see and engaging to the whole crowd. East Tennessee basketball is a nice example of how a passionate fan base, when paired with a highly engaging promotions team, can really go a long way in stoking the excitement of the entire crowd.   Neighborhood   4 Freedom Hall is an off-campus facility, about two miles from downtown Johnson City.  The arena is on the edge of the campuses of Science Hill High School and Liberty Bell Middle School; the school bus lane is even part of the front drive of the arena. I will say having the college in such proximity to the two high schools does creates a bit of an odd vibe. Johnson City is a stealthy, hip town with a vibrant arts scene, several breweries, and restaurants in its downtown area. King Commons Park is a popular gathering area, where adults can grab a pint while kids play on the nearby playground or greenspace. A bit closer to the arena, the former buildings that formerly made up the East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Depot have been repurposed into the popular Burger & Barrell, Yee-Haw Brewing Company, and White Duck Taco Shop. The downtown area has no less than a half dozen breweries in the few city blocks that make up the area.   Fans   4 East Tennessee State enjoys more fan support than any other team in the Southern Conference, and it is not all that close – the Bucs draw over 3,700 fans per game, on average, nearly 1,000 more fans per game than their next closest conference foe. ETSU fans are invested in the game straight from the tip, as it is not uncommon for chants of “De-Fense” and “Let’s Go Bucs!” to erupt even during the first minutes of the game. The layout of Freedom Hall and the seating does a good job getting fans close to the floor, which amplifies the excitement at court level. This goes a long way in maximizing the impact fans here make on the game.   Access   3 Even though a bit off the beaten path, Johnson City is served by Interstate 26, which runs locally from Asheville, North Carolina – this is a beautiful drive with many spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Once inside Freedom Hall, the entry points at either corner of the arena lead directly into a narrow concourse; the concourse is already narrow enough, so the proximity of entry points to the concession stands makes it a challenge to navigate. Fortunately the inner concourse is easily accessible, and offers a bit smoother sailing to make it around the arena unimpeded. It is also nice to be able to get around the arena and still keep the court in view.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets for East Tennessee State men’s basketball start at just $10, and parking is free. Considering concession prices are consistent with what would be found at typical college athletics venues, a visit to Freedom Hall to catch an ETSU basketball game definitely falls into the affordable range.   Extras   3 Banners hang from the rafters recognizing retired numbers in program history, as well as postseason appearances by ETSU in both the NCAA and National Invitational tournaments. Bucky, the Buccaneers mascot, also moves around the arena during games, engaging with fans and posing for photos. A pirate mascot in the mountains of Tennessee may seem unusual, but it ties back to local legend – Pirate Creek, an underground river, is believed to have once connected the area to the Atlantic Ocean. According to legend, the pirate Jean Paul LeBucque sought refuge in the area. This story is widely accepted and explains why the school chose a pirate as its mascot. Freedom Hall is also an official location along the Tennessee Music Pathway, and the venue has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, such as Bob Hope, John Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, Elton John, Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers, and Tennessee’s own Oakridge Boys.   Final Thoughts Freedom Hall exemplifies what happens when a university and a community come together to create a passionate college basketball atmosphere, helping put. East Tennessee State Buccaneers basketball in the conversation as the top basketball experience in the Southern Conference. The mix of program history, involvement by the local community, and the success the program has enjoyed in the NCAA tournament, knocking off Florida State in 1968 and upsetting the # 3 seeded Arizona Wildcats as a # 14 seed in 1992, have gone a long way in building a true basketball culture in Johnson City. The thought of basketball returning to the Mini-Dome  had been floated around as part of the East Tennessee State University master plan, but to this point that plan has not come to fruition.  If there is a point in the future when Bucs basketball returns to campus, it likely would not hurt the overall atmosphere surrounding the game, but in the meantime the experience of East Tennessee State University basketball at Freedom Hall is one that is quietly a truly special experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall 1001 E 17th St. Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 17,222 Hoo-Hoo-Hoosiers! On October 14, 2016, the Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall hosted its first game after 18 months of extensive renovations to one of the college’s most iconic venues. The generous $40 million donation from Sydney Simon Skjodt improved the game experience for fans, students, and student-athletes but preserved the tradition of the arena. When fans entered the building, they noticed wider concourses and walkways, escalators providing access to the revamped concourses with more restrooms and concession stands, and tables to add mustard to your hot dog or pretzel. Seat backs and chairs were replaced and are now all red and white, and a new vibrant scoreboard hung from the center of the court. Assembly Hall has been the home to Indiana University basketball since 1971 and has hosted more than 12 million fans. Most of its 17,222 seats are on either side of the court, creating one of the greatest home-court advantages in college basketball. The seating was designed as two audiences facing one another and to accommodate non-basketball events at the arena, making it one of the instantly recognizable sporting venues in the country. The facility has a modern, aesthetically pleasing design from its exterior, one that promotes progress and blends in well with the IU campus scenery. The opening of the venue coincided with the debut of head coach Bobby Knight, who would lead the Hoosiers to three NCAA championships (1976, 1981, and 1987) during his 29-year seasons in Bloomington, perhaps forever linking the two iconic institutions. Food & Beverage 4 The concession area has improved greatly since the renovations, offering LED menu screens and very affordable prices. Beer sales debuted during the 2022-2023 season at all basketball games for both men and women—cashless payments for all concession purchases at Assembly Hall. The concession windows now have six stands instead of the previous four before renovations. Before heading to your seat, there is plenty of room to put down your food to add toppings to your dogs, nachos, wings, or fries. The items include nachos, French fries, Hoosier dog, pretzels, and 32-ounce Coca-Cola products. Papa John’s Pizza, Polish sausages, footlong hot dogs, and boneless chicken wings are also available. There also appear to be daily specials that feature a giant bucket of popcorn for just $5 during our visit to the arena. BuffaloLouie’s is a local institution known for its chicken wings.  Fans can enjoy other items, including chicken tenders, pork tenderloin, and Italian beef sandwiches. Atmosphere 5 Assembly Hall is quite an experience, highlighted by the recent renovations. The crown jewel is the south entrance, where visitors are greeted by bronze statues of former IU greats from Steve Alford, Bill Garrett, Isiah Thomas, Everett Dean, and members of the 1976 Undefeated NCAA championship team. Interactive screens allow fans to learn about players and teams from various decades, and displays hang that tell a story from the origin of the Hoosier's candy-striped pants to Martha the Mop Lady, who starts the night with her rendition of “Indiana, Our Indiana” that brings the fans and cheerleaders to their feet. There are more Kodak moments with the original scoreboard wedged into the wall up above the escalators and its original baskets. The biggest piece of art might be the Assembly Hall Floor, which was used from 1976 to 1995. It is now displayed as a giant piece of art in a gallery that is the centerpiece of the recent renovations. The seating area of the gym has been left unchanged in appearance, but there are noticeable additions such as a new scoreboard and seatbacks. The two rows of seats create a theater-like atmosphere that seems to rise to the tippy-top of the building. The five championship banners hang on one side of the court, while various Big Ten banners adorn the opposite side. Other traditions include “The Greatest Time Out in College Basketball,” which occurs during the under-eight timeout in the second half when the spirit squad races out of every corner, waving flags to the tune of the William Tell Overture. Neighborhood 4 Numerous choices for eating, drinking, and shopping nearby are within a couple of miles. Mother Bear’s is probably the number one place for pizza in town. The pies are baked in a deep dish, allowing the cheese to caramelize around the edges. The place always seems to be packed, and parking is limited to the restaurant. A few of my IU friends suggest BuffaLouie’s for its wings, amazing sauces, and vibe. Lennie’s is another fine choice, with a lot more parking, that features sandwiches, pizza, stromboli, and beer brewed by the Bloomington Brewing Company. The heart of Bloomington is Kirkwood Ave, featuring two local institutions – Nick’s and Kilroy’s. The square features various shops, bars, and restaurants and borders the entrance of many of the picturesque grounds of the Indiana campus. A little north of town is Oliver Winery; the beautiful gardens, water fountains, and picnic areas around the lake offer a romantic spot for couples or a great place to enjoy wine with friends. Another colorful and touristy area in Nashville, Indiana, located in nearby Brown County, offers some of the best biking/hiking trails in the country and an eclectic downtown jam-packed with shops, restaurants, and Quaff On! Brewing Company. Fans 5 Hoosier fans are loud, proud, and faithful and are everywhere across the state and beyond. They make it one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in college basketball. Just engage in a conversation on the team’s chances during the Big Ten tournament, and you will have many claiming that the team is on its way to winning a sixth national championship. The men’s basketball record at Assembly Hall is an incredible 558-115 (.829) home record as of this writing. The student section is the largest in the nation, providing seating for 7,080 people. Regardless of the opponent they are playing, the Hoosier supporters are 100% behind their team, making it a tough place for any opponent to enter throughout the season. Access 4 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is located in the sports complex with Memorial Stadium, Bart Kaufman Field, and Andy Mohr Field. The price for parking is $10 and is probably the best spot for the first-time visitor, but there are various smaller lots and other spots to park for free that require a short walk. The renovations have stripped the building of its early 1970s appearance of ramps and narrow concourses, and the main lobby ceilings have been raised and are more open to the public. Escalators now take fans to upper levels of seating and balcony sections. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket depends on the opponent and whether or not it is a conference foe. All tickets are sold through SeatGeek and tend to sell out close to the day of the game; however, other resale sites, such as TickPick , offer single-game tickets for as low as $11 for Penn State to as high as $100 against hated rival Purdue . When you tie in the price of concession items and parking, it is easily an affordable night watching elite Big Ten basketball. Extras 5 One point for the bronze statues, interactive video board, and center court wall frame that exists in the south lobby: the place has changed for the better but has not altered the tradition of the inside of the seating area. An extra point for the championship banners that hang at both ends of the court: the style of the arena creates an ideal space to don the banners instead of the usual hanging from the rafters that are common in most indoor facilities. A third point for the tradition of Indiana University basketball: it is rich and something to savor while you attend a game at Assembly Hall. A fourth point to the traditions that include Martha the Mop Lady, candy-striped pants, and “The Greatest Time-Out in College Basketball.” You can learn all about them in the south lobby. One final point for the fervor is shown by the largest student section in college basketball. They truly help to make this an elite experience and pizazz to the night’s player introductions. Final Thoughts One of the iconic college sports venues has only gotten better. It will continue to provide Hoosier basketball fans everything it has had in the past: a dominating place for opponents to play in, school traditions, the frenzied student section, and championship-caliber basketball. An instantly recognizable facility at any level of sporting competition in the world. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

File Photo Schenectady Stadium was somewhat ahead of its time when it opened in 1946; the modern structure had many innovations, from its field lights to its very own restaurant. However, only eleven years later, the stadium hosted its last baseball game. Owners Pete and Jim McNearney built their steel and concrete structure from their own pockets to attract an existing ball club during the Golden Age of baseball after World War II. The brothers had the foresight to understand that it might be more than just baseball that attracted fans through the gates. The home of the Schenectady Blue Jays of the later Eastern League offered the first panoramic stadium restaurant in the country. The restaurant was open every day except Mondays, from 5 PM to 1 AM, regardless of a baseball game. Patrons had the opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching the game from the clean and modern eatery. Tables were pressed against the large windows overlooking the diamond, and a few lounge chairs provided extra comfort for those wanting to enjoy the elusive after-dinner cigarette. The house special was the stadium club steak for $2. Today, you can find many restaurants located inside or adjacent to minor league ballparks. Frickers in Fifth Third Field in Toledo, Ohio,  offers eight rows of seating overlooking the ballpark in the right-field corner of the stadium for Mud Hens fans. Against the Grain sits inside Louisville Slugger Field , serves award-winning barbecue, and brews its beer to fans before and after Louisville Bats games. It’s normal to take such comforts for granted since the stadium restaurant in Schenectady–sans the cigarette smoke–describes most suite-level bars and restaurants that are the norm at all modern ballparks. However, this was not always the case more than 70 years ago when Schenectady Stadium opened for business. The ballpark featured a few more innovations, including the same GE floodlights that were used at Yankee Stadium, coined-operated turnstiles, and a modern electric scoreboard. The 278,000-watt system made the stadium the best-illuminated field in the league. There was also a screen around the stadium’s grandstand, but as ex-Blue Jay Wally Habel would later say, it wasn’t to protect the fans; it was to save on baseballs. Pete McNerney even set up a cop outside the parking lot to make sure any balls hit outside the venue were promptly returned from the various kids looking for the elusive baseball souvenir. The Jays incorporated special nights to attract large audiences to the gate, like Booster Night, which included fireworks, prizes, and appearances by local politicians. There was also the chance for a lucky fan to be awarded $25 for the first home run, $15 for the first triple, and $10 for the first single of the night. . Unfortunately, attendance would be a problem during the last half of the team’s existence. Ads in the local newspaper pleaded with its readers to “Keep Class A Baseball in Schenectady” by sending $4 to the stadium for four tickets that could be used at any game during the 1954 season. The Booster Club set an objective of selling 100,000 tickets and offering prizes for a new automobile, toaster, and portable radio. There were nights when the crowds were large and fireworks were set off, but the future looked dimmed by the club’s 12th season. The Blue Jays folded after the 1957 season when attendance dipped heavily from the year before. A campaign to sell 2,000 season tickets for $25 a pop fell short by 58%, and the team pulled the plug on operations, despite local interest in keeping the club in town. In the end, there were only 835 season tickets sold during the drive. The disdained McNearney handed over a letter of withdrawal to the league. To him, the times were changing, and it was a different era for minor-league baseball. “During the past three to four years, minor league baseball has been on the decline. The fact has been attributed to many causes, such as television, radio, and the like. To elaborate, at this point, would be needless.” Author and local baseball historian Frank Keetz wrote two books on the Blue Jays during its days in town; he expressed his opinion in an interview with the Schenectady Daily Gazette in 2012. “Eventually, things just fizzled out . Some people faithfully supported the team right to the end, but there weren’t enough of them. They were very popular for the first three or four years, and then attendance started to decline for several reasons, and the same thing was happening in Albany and other minor league towns around the country.” McNerney would convert the ballpark into Stadium Golf Club and turn it into a 9-hole golf course until selling it in 1965. It would later be turned into an 18-hole course. The grandstand would remain as part of the clubhouse and maintenance entrance until 2002, when it was finally knocked down, 45 years after it last hosted minor league baseball. Today, minor league baseball is played at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in nearby Troy, New York. The Tri-City Valleycats have been members of the New York-Penn League since 2002. Its name, Tri-City, incorporates the cities of Troy, Schenectady, and Albany. There is even a Mayor’s Race that features mascots represented by the likeness of each city’s three mayors at every game. The golf course is still in service today, and its logo crest features a blue jay in the middle with two golf clubs, a nice little nod to the city’s baseball minor league past, and a stadium that was somewhat ahead of its time but should not be forgotten. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Leavey Center 500 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95053 Map It Santa Clara Broncos website Leavey Center website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 4,500 Bronco Basketball Standing a short walk east of the historic Santa Clara Mission is Santa Clara University’s Leavey Event Center. Surrounded by pillars and glass on the outside, it encompasses all that major college basketball stands for inside. Once you step inside, you are instantly met with the rich history of the school’s basketball program, with banners hanging high in the rafter depicting their few legendary players, none bigger than the immortal Steve Nash. The Santa Clara Broncos basketball team have been members of the West Coast Conference since 1952.  The team has appeared in 11 NCAA Tournaments and six National Invitational Tournaments.  The team has had a long, winding history in finding a permanent home. After beginning play at the local San Jose YMCA (on the Alameda), they spent time at San Francisco’s Kezar Pavilion and the San Jose Civic Auditorium before finally coming home to Santa Clara in the mid-1970’s. The Leavey Event Center first opened in 1975 as the Harold J. Toso Pavilion. Sporting the vinyl fabric roof that was all the rage back in the day, it resembled Detroit’s Pontiac Silverdome. While it isn’t well known, Santa Clara can develop some fairly high winds, with gusts reaching as high as 18 mph during the Fall, thus creating problems for the Toso Pavilion’s roof. After dealing with tears over the years, the school decided to deflate the roof and construct a new, more modern one in April 2000.  After a soft opening in December 2000, the revamped arena was officially opened in late 2001. It was named after 1922 alumnus and Farmers Insurance founder Thomas E. Leavey.  Food & Beverage 2 There are currently two concession stands at the Leavey Event Center, a large one just behind the upper deck bleachers facing the press box and a much smaller one right behind the band that just offers candy and bottled drinks. They have very few condiments. The food at the Leavey Event Center is as follows: hot dogs ($7.50), hot dog combos ($11.50), hot link ($8), churros, nachos, pretzels, candy, fountain drinks and bottled water. What it lacks in quantity it makes up for in scrumptiousness. The hot dogs are piping hot and their accompanying buns are perfectly toasted. It’s this writer’s personal opinion that Santa Clara’s Leavey Event Center serves the very best hot dog buns in all of Division I basketball. Atmosphere 3 When you first walk into the Leavey Center, a slew of unique sights greet you. There is a large window which has a nice view of the sunny California sky right behind one of the  baskets. While you are looking at that unique sight, music will be blaring, either from the small school band in the corner or the arena’s DJ. All around above you hang banners commemorating the school’s many legendary moments and players, including Steve Nash. With the ventilation and temperature just right, and a size-able yet small-for-Division I crowd gathers to watch a basketball game between two century-old rivals, the Leavey Event Center offers a perfect atmosphere for big time college basketball without all the pressure.  Retired Numbers at Leavey Event Center, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Although the University of the Pacific is a rival that dates over 100 years (they used to be neighbors), the crowd is minimal but electric. There is a small band in the corner that plays current tunes such as “Old Town Road” and “Swag Surfin'”. They even have a tiny merchandise stand that sells t-shirts and bags.  The seats surround the court, with a single section behind each basket and double decks on either side of the sidelines. Whether you are seated in a lower section with a seat back or a higher section with just a long bench, there are big signs at the foot of each seat reminding the audience to stomp loudly.  Neighborhood 5 Santa Clara University rests between two vastly different neighborhoods, neither of which has much crime. On one side is the busiest part of the city, the Alameda, a historic street that lies right next to the university that is often very busy at all hours of the day and stretches all the way to San Diego.  On the other side of campus is a safe place for a nice stroll before or after the game. Franklin Mall is right next to the university on Homestead Road and Monroe Street and offers a wide assortment of options before and after the game. Places such as Taplands , Jiaren Cafe: Coffee, Boba & Events , Thirsty’s , Rantei Japanese Cuisine  and Mio Vicino  are some of the neighborhood’s top choices that are mere feet from the university.   Just a mile south of the university as Lafayette turns into Washington Street and Washington Street turns into N Bascom Avenue is a slew of other restaurants to consider such as Deedee’s , Crepes Bistro , Normandy House   and Frost Cupcake Factory .     If you are in town for a visit, the Sonesta Simply Suites Silicon Valley  and Kasa University - Airport Santa Clara  are within walking distance to your left on the Alameda. If those hotels don’t suit you then the Sterling Inn   and Valley Inn  are to your right on the Alameda. Fans 2 Much like their food, what Santa Clara lacks in the number of fans makes up for in exuberance and enthusiasm. When you sit down and look at your feet, you will see a big sticker encouraging you to stomp your feet and make noise. It took a few minutes, but eventually a Pacific player went to the free throw line and sure enough, the bleachers started to rattle and the crowd came alive. The fans even loudly counted down the shot clock as the opponent raced to get up a shot. Stomp Your Feet, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Access 3 There is a parking lot at the foot of the arena that is very affordable, going for $4 for four hours and $6 for all day. The Alameda is loaded with bus stops and taking an Uber or Lyft shouldn’t be too much of a problem if the traffic is just right. If you are willing to walk a bit, the neighborhood abutting Washington Street is safe and the nearby Franklin Mall usually has a few spots open for free.  There is a small staircase as you enter into the arena with ramps to the side for the less-than-mobile. There is no bag check or security at the entrances and there is but a single security guard roaming the concourse.  Their bathrooms are small and cramped yet modern and clean. Still, not all of their faucets worked. Return on Investment 3 With this being a smaller Division I program, the tickets are cheaper than other establishments. That being said, the $20-$40 spent on tickets is well spent. The school takes a lot of pride in its basketball program and you can easily tell that they are always open to revamping the arena, whether it’s a new video board or a court that uniquely captures the school’s rich history. Extras 4 Arguably the neatest extra of the Leavey Event Center is the silhouette of the nearby Santa Clara Mission that covers the court. Their video board is state of the art and it often shows quick videos of straggling children way up in the upper deck as they skip and dance around from one section to the next, burning off the energy that is the staple of childhood. If you don’t like variety then their halftime show is outstanding. The Broncos have three separate dance teams, one from the university and two from youth groups. Each is excellent. Of course, the hallmark of the arena is the huge window at one end of the court that offers a nice view of the sky.  Final Thoughts Whether you're just visiting the area or are bored and looking for something to do, the Leavey Center offers a nice experience. Although it’s within the heart of a big city, it never has a big crowd, but the people who attend are often quite friendly. It doesn’t offer any of the hype of big time basketball such as Duke or Kentucky, but it has all of the drama of any relevant basketball program in America.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mayser Gymnasium 650 College Ave Lancaster, PA 17603 Franklin & Marshall Diplomats website Mayser Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 3,200 A Diplomatic Court Franklin & Marshall College (“F&M”) is a private college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1787. The school was originally named for Benjamin Franklin, but in 1836 it was merged with a college named for the fourth Chief Justice of the United States John Marshall. Famous alumni include Roy Scheider, Treat Williams, and the late Commissioner of Baseball, Bowie Kuhn. The college’s sports teams are called the Diplomats and mainly compete in the Centennial Conference at the NCAA Division III level. The Mayser Gymnasium basketball court has been well regarded as one of the most "true" surfaces around. The NBA's Philadelphia 76ers trained on the court for over two decades. The men's and women's basketball teams practice and play on Glenn Robinson Court, named after former men's head coach Glenn Robinson, who has held the national record for the most wins of any coach in Division II or III basketball. Food & Beverage 1 There are no food offerings in the gym except for a couple of vending machines. Atmosphere 3 The arena is very nice, but it is a high school type of setup. As you enter the arena you will find bleacher-filled grandstands sitting along two sides of the court. Outside the gym is a Hall of Fame and trophy cases. Neighborhood 3 The college is located just north of downtown, right near Clipper Magazine Stadium. There are many shops and restaurants right near the stadium. The Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and The Fridge are some great options within easy walking distance. Besides downtown, the main commercial areas of the Lancaster area are the outlet’s area east on Route 30 and surrounding the Park City Center Shopping Mall north of downtown. Fans 2 This is truly a friends and family-only type of sports venue. Access 4 Lancaster is an easy area to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are large roads that any tourist visiting the area will be more than familiar with. Even though the college is located in a busy town, you will seldom find traffic to be too bad. Lancaster is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. There are many parking spaces around the college. Return on Investment 5 There is no price to attend games at Franklin & Marshall. Extras 2 The trophy cases have some interesting sports history in them. Check out neighboring Clipper Magazine Stadium before or after the match to see a nice quality independent league baseball stadium. Final Thoughts Mayser Gymnasium is historic and offers a fun atmosphere for sporting events.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Nininger Hall E College Street Bridgewater, VA 22812 Bridgewater Eagles website Nininger Hall website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 1,000 Fly Like an Eagle, Into Nininger Hall Bridgewater College is located in Bridgewater, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley portion of the state. The school has about 1,800 students, and the athletic programs compete in Division III of the NCAA, in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). Bridgewater basketball calls Nininger Hall home. The 1,000-seat arena is located in a building that also contains Bridgewater's health and human sciences department. Food & Beverage 2 There is a concession stand at Nininger Hall, but when Stadium Journey visited, it was closed, as it is staffed by student groups and we visited over winter break. Other fans indicated the menu was pretty basic, so this rating represents our best estimate. Atmosphere 5 Entering Nininger Hall puts you in a lobby with murals and banners honoring Bridgewater athletics. The ticket table is right in front of you, and you will turn left or right to get to the doors to the arena. Once you get inside, most seats are plastic bleachers, all of which have a great view of the court. The stands on one side are slightly elevated up a short flight of stairs from court level but everyone has a good angle. There are a few chairback seats at Nininger Hall, but they are reserved for season ticket holders. The triangular roof of the arena helps trap sound in and make the crowd seem louder than it otherwise would sound. Scoreboards on both baselines show only basic information like the score, clock, team timeouts, and fouls. Halftime entertainment at Eagles games usually involves some sort of contest between fans. Speaking of contests, you may receive a raffle ticket upon entry for a chance to win a prize from the gameday sponsor, which could be anyone from Domino's Pizza to a local golf course. Bridgewater has a small cheerleading squad, although they can usually be found in the stands rather than on the court. There was no band present when Stadium Journey visited. The PA music was standard for the most part, but after the game, they played "Fly Like an Eagle" about Bridgewater's nickname. Overall, a Bridgewater game at Nininger Hall has an impressive atmosphere for Division III. Neighborhood 4 Bridgewater is a small town in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, but that does not mean nothing is going on. Most businesses are located along Main Street (Route 42), a short drive away from the Bridgewater campus. Francesco's Italian, El Charro Mexican, and the Cracked Village Pub are all good places to check out. Smiley's Ice Cream is located closer to I-81 and you will probably drive by it on your way in. It serves delicious ice cream made on-site, including special flavors that vary weekly as well as many regular flavors. It is one of the best ice cream places in the Shenandoah Valley in our opinion. We recommend the banana ice cream, made with fresh bananas. . Fans 4 Bridgewater draws a few hundred fans to a typical basketball game, which doesn't fill Nininger Hall but is a good crowd for this level. The fans here are loud and seem even louder because of the triangular roof. They cheer on their team throughout the game and are not afraid to yell at the refs if they feel they have made a bad call. As the ODAC covers a relatively small geographic footprint, there will typically be fans of the visiting team present as well. If you are rooting for the road team, you should not expect any issues from the home fans. Access 3 Bridgewater's campus is located a few miles off I-81 and US 11. Once you get on campus, there is a large lot across the street from the arena, and if this fills up, fans can park in most other lots on campus, as long as it is a weekend or after 5 PM on a weekday. As Bridgewater plays few if any weekday afternoon games, these time restrictions should not be an issue. A small lot is located right next to the arena, but this is reserved for gameday personnel and fans cannot park here. There are a couple of handicapped spaces in this lot for fans who require them. Restrooms are located in the lobby across from the arena doors. Go out the doors and turn right (or turn left from the lobby as you come in.) The women's room is on the left right before the door to the stairwell, and the men's room is inside the stairwell on your left at the bottom of the stairs. You will not have to climb any stairs to get there, just enter the stairwell and it's right there. These bathrooms are of a sufficient size for the crowd. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are $10 for adults, with discounts available for youth and seniors. They should be purchased through the HomeTown Ticketing app in advance and displayed on your phone as you come in, though they will help you purchase them on-site if need be. Either way, it will go through the app, so there is no point in waiting. Officially you need to buy two separate tickets for a doubleheader involving the men's and women's teams, but as they do not clear the arena in between, there is no way for them to enforce this. Overall, a Bridgewater basketball game is a very good value. . Extras 3 The murals in the lobby and the banners in the arena honoring Bridgewater's athletic accomplishments are each worthy of an extra star here. A third and final star for the promotional raffle giveaways from local sponsors. Final Thoughts Bridgewater College may be Division III, but the experience at an Eagles basketball game is on par with many low-level Division I schools. Hoops fans visiting Virginia's Shenandoah Valley will want to check out a game at Nininger Hall.

Surprise...  Nary a Pork Roll in sight, ‪ Marc  and ‪ Dan  return to discuss the latest twist in the new Sixers arena.  They are here to stay.  What happens to the Market Street location and will the Wells Fargo Center still stand? _________________________________________________________________________________ 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 Monday on our social media streaming channels.