Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Canton Ice House 65 North Street Canton, MA 02021   Northeast Generals website Canton Ice House website   Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 500 (red rink)/200 (blue rink) It’s an Ice House   The Northeast Generals are a Tier II junior hockey team that began play in the North American Hockey League in 2016. The Generals have qualified for the Robertson Cup playoffs in five of their first nine NAHL seasons, losing in the first round each time. After playing at the New England Sports Village  in the Providence suburb of Attleboro for their first eight seasons, the Generals relocated 24 miles north on Interstate 95 to the Canton Ice House in the Boston suburbs for the 2024-25 season.   The Canton Ice House, opened in 2016, features two full-sized rinks, a pro shop, café, two golf simulators and a fully equipped gym. It serves as home to several local high schools, youth programs, club programs and figure skating clubs. It also serves as the home to the Curry College hockey team. The facility boasts that it hosts over 35 games and 100 practices every week, with over 750,000 visitors passing through its doors annually.   Food & Beverage 4   The facility’s snack bar, The Ice House Café, is located between the red and blue rinks on the mezzanine level. Several tables fill the large space, and both rinks are visible from these tables. Also, there are a bunch of video games, an air hockey table, and a rod hockey table located here. As is the case with many community rinks, this snack bar features a pretty impressive menu.   Breakfast items are found on the menu, which at first glance may be surprising, but when you consider the long hours that a rink complex is open, it isn’t really such a shock. Bagels, English muffins, hash browns, and egg and cheese sandwiches are sold here. If you’re looking for lunch or dinner, you can choose from an array of burgers, wraps, club sandwiches, chicken parm sandwiches, and more.   Chicken tenders, french fries, onion rings, fried dough, mozzarella sticks, toasted raviolis, and fried Oreos highlight the offerings from the snack bar’s busy fryolator. Pizza slices and salads can also be found here. Fans just looking for a snack can order a pretzel, popcorn, assorted candy, or ice cream treats.   If you happen to visit Canton when the snack bar is closed, there are several vending machines selling drinks and snacks.   Atmosphere 2   As you would expect in a small community rink like the ones at the Canton Ice House, the game day atmosphere is pretty basic. The sound system is decent, if a little on the quiet side. There’s not a ton of noise coming from the crowd here, so you’re able to hear all the sounds of the game, no matter where you sit.   There are small scoreboards at both ends of the rink that display the score, time, and penalties. Banners throughout the rink advertise the facility’s many other tenants, in addition to the large Generals banner hanging behind the home bench.   If you enjoy attending a hockey game while being able to hear the sounds of skates cutting through the ice, coaches barking instructions at their teams, and players chirping each other (and the referees), Canton Ice House’s intimate setting is for you.   Neighborhood 3   Canton Ice House is located in an industrial park in the southern part of Canton, with nothing much in the immediate neighborhood that will attract visiting fans. Surrounding the industrial park is a residential area, so fans will have to venture a bit from the facility to find dining or lodging options. Luckily, being so close to Boston and major highways means that you will have numerous options within a 15-minute drive.   Backstreet Grill and Tavern is a local favorite in neighboring Stoughton, and visiting fans will find no shortage of options on nearby Washington Street, including Nosh ‘N Grog and L’Oven Pizzeria. Hotels line all the major arteries in the area, including a Four Points by Sheraton, a Residence Inn, a Homewood Suites by Hilton, and a Holiday Inn and Suites. Of course, the city of Boston and all its attractions are less than half an hour away.   Fans looking for sporting options in the area will find Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots  and New England Revolution , just 11 miles away to the south. Fans looking to pair a Generals game with a Division One hockey game will find the Stonehill Skyhawks  just 15 minutes to the south, with the numerous teams located in and around Boston, Providence, and Worcester all about a half hour’s drive away.   Fans 2   Stadium Journey attended the Generals’ 2025 season opener at Canton Ice House on a beautiful September Saturday night. Attendance on this night appeared to approach the capacity of nearly 200 fans. A glance at attendance figures from the 2024-25 season showed an average attendance of approximately 150 fans per game. A typical Generals crowd consists mainly of friends and family, some of whom travel quite a distance to follow their loved ones. While the fans are quite knowledgeable, they are pretty reserved in their support. Since many of the Generals’ games are against local teams, it’s not unusual to see fans supporting the visiting teams.   The crowd here in Canton is comparable to the crowds that supported the team at their previous home in Attleboro.   Access 3   The town of Canton, Mass., is located about 15 miles southwest of Boston. The town itself is easy to get to via car, as Interstates 93 and 95, as well as Routes 1, 24, and 128, all pass through Canton, making it easy to reach from all points in Massachusetts. The MBTA Commuter Rail has a stop at Canton Junction, about three miles from the Ice House. The hockey facility is located in an industrial park on the southern edge of town near Stoughton. To reach the industrial park, one must drive through much of Canton or the surrounding towns.   Fans will enter the Ice House through a small lobby, which contains the pro shop, bathrooms, and several vending machines. The red rink will be on your right, the blue rink to your left. The snack bar is located on the second floor, in between the two rinks.   The Generals play in the blue rink, the smaller of the two rinks. Both rinks have a similar setup. Seats consist of molded plastic bleachers colored blue or red (thus the names) that run the length of one side of the rink. There are standing room areas at the top of the grandstand, as well as some standing room at ice level at the ends of the rinks. Fans looking for some respite from the cold rink may elect to watch the game from the hallway that runs between the rinks or from the snack bar lobby. Restrooms are located on both levels and are remarkably clean considering how busy this facility can be.   Return on Investment 4   Tickets to Generals games are sold as general admission seating (no pun intended?) for ten dollars. Seniors and youth get a five-dollar discount. Parking in the large lot at the facility is also free. Should the snack bar be open, food prices are also very reasonable. This all adds up to an affordable night of entertainment for local sports fans.   Extras 1   An extra point is awarded for the seating options that allow fans to watch the game from a warm area at Canton Ice House, as well as the nice selection of games in the snack bar area. And let's not forget to mention the vending machine that lets you dispense your own custom container of Skittles.   Final Thoughts   While the Canton Ice House would hardly qualify as a destination location for visiting hockey fans, this community facility has a lot of things going for it. The Northeast Generals bring affordable, entertaining junior hockey to a part of Massachusetts that contains no shortage of crazed fans.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Nor-Del Arena @ Township of Norwich Community Centre 53 Stover St S Norwich, ON N0J 1P0 Norwich Merchants website Nor-Del Arena website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 700 Merchants of Fine Goals and Saves Norwich, Ontario, is known for being part of Ontario’s tobacco district.  Agriculture has become more diversified in the area over time, but the area is still viewed as Ontario’s tobacco country.  The area has a long hockey history with a number of different teams at different levels.  One of the teams with the most longevity has been the Norwich Merchants.  The Junior C team in the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s South Doherty Division was established in 1968 as part of the Southern Counties Junior D Hockey League.  Their success culminated in the 1970 OHA Cup as provincial Junior D Champions.  Ascension to the Junior C ranks took place in 1980, and the Merchants have been there ever since.  As members of the Niagara & District Junior Hockey League, the Merchants won the Schmalz Cup in 1986 as Junior C Champions. The Merchants became part of the PJHL in 2016 with the full reorganization of the Ontario Hockey Association.  Merchants Alumni include former coach and broadcaster Gary Green and former NHL goaltender Dwayne Roloson. Home for the Merchants is the Nor-Del Arena @ Township of Norwich Community Centre.  Opened in 1987 with a modest capacity of 700, the arena enjoys the title sponsorship of local company Nor-Del Cablevision. Food & Beverage 2 Concessions are fairly limited at Nor-Del Arena.  The main lobby has a few vending machines for patrons.  Above the lobby, at the south end of the arena, is the Blueline Club, which offers a limited selection of beer, wine, and liquor.  The game that was reviewed was the home opener for the season, and there was a “Parking Lot Party” that went on before, during, and after the game.  At the party, there were a couple of food trucks, and fans were able to bring in food from the outside trucks. Atmosphere 3 Nor-Del Arena is part of the Township of Norwich Community Centre.  The Community Centre acts as a hub for the area, like many other Junior C facilities do.  The main entry is from the south, and the exterior is fairly nondescript with corrugated blue siding above the brick on the lower portion of the building.  The entry to Nor-Del Arena is on the left side, while the entry to the Auditorium is on the right side. After entering the community centre, fans will find the ticket window in the breezeway, followed by the lobby of Nor-Del Arena.  The lobby does not offer much in the way of items for exploring and is fairly nondescript, with some temporary signs for Merchant games.  Inside Nor-Del Arena, the ice is oriented from north to south with the centre ice logo facing the goal at the south, which is fairly unique.  The seating in the arena is in a horseshoe shape, with the south being the open end.  The east and west sides have three and two rows of plastic arena seats, respectively, while the north end has the majority of seating with eight rows of seats.  It is possible to walk around the entire arena as there is a walkway behind the seating, and the railway provides the ever-popular standing room.  Simple hockey scoreboards hang on the east and west walls, with the west wall being a touch more complex as it has the displays for penalties.  The arena is fairly clean, but the block walls need a paint job.  The team benches are on the opposite sides of the ice, and the ceiling is fairly low, with large, curved truss supports across silver insulation lining the ceiling.  For fans interested in a little bit of Norwich history, the south end is where to be.  At the top of the south end hang many minor hockey banners.  The Merchants have a unique manner of displaying their history.  Two large posters can be found on the south wall.  One poster is the Norwich Merchants Hall of Fame, which displays their retired numbers and honoured members.  It is divided almost evenly among former players and administrators, with plenty of room for new members.  Gary Green and Dwayne Roloson are members of note on this poster.  A similar large poster is beside the Hall of Fame and displays the Merchants' championship banners.  The highlight of the banners is the 1986 Schmalz Cup.  Just under the pressbox, which is in the southeast corner, is a framed jersey honouring Ben Pearson, who died of liver failure while a Merchant in 2010.  Although these displays may be disappointing to fans, a more traditional set of artifacts can be found in the Blueline Club.  A host of team pictures, trophies, and traditional championship banners line the club at the south end of the arena, above the lobby. The gameday production is akin to other Junior C teams.  Promotions include the shootout and 50/50 draw.  The speaker system is okay, but requires the announcer to remain fairly calm, as when he gets overexcited, it becomes more difficult to understand the announcements.  The game that was reviewed was the home opener, and full player introductions took place.  A makeshift spotlight was used from the ice to enhance the entrances with the lights out.  However, it was fairly ineffective as the lighting infrastructure was not sufficient for the intended effect. Neighbourhood 3 Nor-Del Arena is located in the Town of Norwich.  With a population of just over 11,000, the small town feel in Norwich is prevalent.  There are a few spots for pre or post game food and drink that are in Norwich.  Some choices include Little Bones, Jordan’s Divine Dish, Lam’s Restaurant and Village Restaurant.  The Merchants are the only game in town, but close proximity to the Woodstock Navy Vets or Caledonia for the GOJHL’s Corvairs offer a couple of other sporting options that are not too far away.  Senior hockey can also be found in Delhi and Tilsonburg.  Other tourist options in the area include the Tractor Pull in August and the Norwich & District Museum.  The Delhi Tobacco Museum and Heritage Centre may also be of interest. For fans wishing to stay in the area, heading to the neighbouring towns of Woodstock, Tillsonburg, Simcoe or Delhi will offer hotel options. Fans 4 It is difficult to assess fans in the PJHL as the league does not compile attendance statistics for easy comparison.  That being said, the Norwich Merchants enjoy solid fan support compared to other Junior C teams.  The 2024-25 season, the Merchants averaged 384 fans per game and the game that was reviewed saw an attendance of 583 fans.  It is believed that this puts Norwich in the upper echelon of fan support.  The fans in attendance were loud when necessary, however, it appears that Nor-Del Arena may be a bit of a Friday Night hangout for high school students, who can be unruly at times.   Access 3 The Township of Norwich Community Centre is located in the town of Norwich on Stover Street at the southeast part of town.  Stover Street is also Highway 59, the main artery into town from Highway 401.  The 401 is 16 km away so there will be plenty of farmland to drive through on the way to Norwich.  Parking at the arena can be a bit of an issue depending on if there is another event at the auditorium.  At one point there was public transit that linked the towns in the area, however a lack of funding has halted this service and there is now no public transit in Norwich.  Getting around the Nor-Del Arena may be a bit of a challenge as getting around the ice surface behind the seating requires ascending and descending some stairs.  The washrooms for the facility are adequate. Return on Investment 5 PJHL hockey offers tremendous value at a low price.  Merchants tickets are $10 for adults with discounts for students and seniors.  Tickets are purchased at the door with cash.  Alcohol prices are a mere $5 per drink in the Blueline Club and parking is free.  The product on the ice is decent and Norwich offers that small town feel that is prevalent through the PJHL. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Parking Lot Party for the game that was reviewed, the home opener. An extra mark for the Township of Norwich Community Centre as a community hub. Final Thoughts The Norwich Merchants offer that small town hockey feeling that is prevalent through the PJHL.  Nor-Del Arena is a solid hockey venue and fans will enjoy their time there.  It is worth the drive to tobacco country to catch a Merchants game. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Reeves Field 3701 University Avenue Washington, DC 20016 American Eagles website Reeves Field website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 700 Fly, Eagles, Fly Reeves Field is located on the campus of American University in Washington, D.C., and has been the home of the Eagles soccer team since 1949. The stadium is named after John M. Reeves, who served on the University’s Board of Trustees for 23 years. The stadium also contains a track which serves as the home of the Eagles’ track and field programs. Many professional and national teams have used Reeves Field as a practice facility while they visit D.C., including Major League Soccer teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes and Seattle Sounders, European teams such as FC Barcelona and A.C. Milan, and national teams from the United States as well as foreign countries like Bolivia and Portugal. Food & Beverage 1 There was no food or drink for sale at Reeves Field during Stadium Journey's visit. However, the Eagles often give away free food such as pizza or ice cream as part of promotions, either to students or to all fans, as part of promotions. Check the AU athletics website for details. There are also several fast food restaurants by the parking garage that you will pass as you walk in, including a Starbucks, Qdoba, and Subway. Fans can bring food and drink from here, or any other outside food and beverage except alcohol, into Reeves Field. Atmosphere 3 Reeves Field seats only 700 fans, so there is not a bad seat in the building. After entering, you will walk around the track to the bleachers on the far side of the field. You can also choose to just stand along the track and watch from there, as some fans do. The bleachers are pretty much the only part of the field in the shade during the day, as they lie under some trees. This is nice on late August afternoons when the heat can be scorching, but once you get into the fall, it can be annoying to have leaves landing on your head during the game. The trees also tend to attract a lot of pesky insects. There is a large scoreboard located in one of the corners, which also shows shots on goal and corner kicks as well as graphics such as animations and info on upcoming games. In recent years, American has gotten better at promoting the soccer team in recent years, doing things like honoring alumni at halftime and various other promotions throughout the season. Unfortunately, the sound system at Reeves Field is of poor quality, so you may struggle to hear what is being said. Neighborhood 5 American University is located in the Tenleytown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This is several miles from the center of the city, but don’t let that discourage you from visiting. There are a number of restaurants nearby, including local favorites Z Burger, District Taco, and, of course, a number of chain restaurants. Tenleytown is a safe neighborhood to walk in, but due to its distance from downtown, you may be better off driving. Of course, this being the nation’s capital, there is plenty going on elsewhere in the city as well, and the great thing is that most of it’s free. The National Mall and all of its monuments and memorials are absolutely gorgeous on a fall afternoon, and if it’s a rainy day, you can stop into one of the many museums. All government-run attractions are free of charge, though some privately-owned ones are not. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the Capitol or the White House, you will need to schedule that in advance. Hotels are extremely expensive in DC itself, at least the ones of decent quality, so if you’re staying overnight, your best bet is to stay in the Virginia or Maryland suburbs and drive over. Fans 4 Although Reeves Field only seats 700, the bleachers will be close to full for most games, especially on weekends. Students, alumni, family, and locals alike pack the bleachers to cheer on the Eagles. Just a few years ago, these bleachers were nearly empty, but the experience here has significantly improved recently. Some students stand behind whichever goal the Eagles are defending and shout at the opposing goalkeeper, but most just hang out in the stands with everyone else. Access 3 Parking at Reeves Field is simple - just use the garage near Bender Arena. This will cost you $10 regardless of when you visit, which is disappointing as it was free until this year. The parking garage has some very tight spaces, which may be difficult for large vehicles to maneuver. Take the elevator down to the lobby of Bender and follow the signs to Reeves Field, about a five-minute walk away. From there, you will walk along a path and enter the stadium. Note that construction on the Meltzer Athletic Performance Center next to Reeves Field may force you to take a detour on your walking route, and the situation will change dynamically. It is scheduled to open in early 2026, so if you are visiting Reeves Field after 2025, the situation should be stable but may not match what is described here. There are no restrooms at Reeves Field, but the surrounding buildings are open during games and have restrooms. There are several within a five-minute walk. However, the Meltzer Center behind one goal is still under construction as of 2025, so you can't use the restrooms in there yet. It may be possible in the 2026 season and going forward, but if not, there are plenty of other places to go. There are also some porta-potties by the Meltzer construction zone, but these might be intended for the construction workers rather than the fans. Return on Investment 4 Admission to American University soccer games is free, but parking will cost you $10. This is a change from a couple of years ago, when the team charged for admission, but parking was free. Overall, an American University soccer game is a good value. Extras 2 There are free roster cards in a container by the entrance, and you can also get a virtual one by scanning a QR code. It is good that American is giving fans both options. Many teams have taken away physical programs entirely in recent years and forced fans to go virtual. On the other hand, many fans generally do prefer virtual cards, particularly since the physical ones tend to blow away if you are not careful. Allowing fans to choose between them is the best option. A second star for the large student presence at games, something not often seen at this level. Final Thoughts An American University Eagles soccer game is an above-average college soccer experience. While local schools like Georgetown and Maryland draw more fans and have better stadiums, college soccer is alive and well in America as well. The crowds have grown in recent years, and this is an experience on the rise.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Watkins Glen International 2790 County Route 16 Watkins Glen, NY 14891 Trans Am website Watkins Glen International website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: 38,900 Summer Thunder in Watkins Glen Watkins Glen International hosts numerous race series every year, from NASCAR to IMSA. While Trans Am used to feature as part of the a nnual Hilliard Vintage Grand Prix , Par ella Motorsports Holdings made the choice this year to separate the events. This creates a new race weekend in July, with Trans Am as the feature series and Formula Race Promotions supporting. Since they first began racing here in 1948, the speedway has attracted some of the greatest racers in all of motorsports, across a wide variety of manufacturers. The downside to this is a massive decrease in both fans and cars on track, with increased pricing.   Food & Beverage   2 Watkins Glen International doesn’t have a lot of food vendors, with the main paddock cafe located in the main paddock near the front stretch – fans looking to visit the outer parts of the track may have slimmer pickings than those watching from the finish line. That said, the choices in the fan zone are simple, ranging from burgers ($13) and hot dogs ($5-$9) to chicken tenders ($15) and smaller snacks ($4 to $8), while drinks run $4 for coffee or hot cocoa, $5 for water, Powerade, and sodas, $11 for Seltzer, $9 to $11 for beer, and $7 for lemonade. The big downside here is that the paddock cafe stand is only open on the weekend – on Thursday, it remains closed.   Atmosphere   3 Watkins Glen International is located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, making the facility a beautifully located racing venue – the area is full of beautiful trees, meaning fans can find some shade in the hot sun. In addition, the track is laid out to be one of the fastest road courses in North America. Large grandstands also line the front straight, Turn 1, the esses, and the final corner complex, offering many different viewpoints for fans to watch from.   Neighborhood   4 The track itself is about 5 minutes south of the town of Watkins Glen, nestled on the southern shores of Seneca Lake. The town is beautiful and quaint, featuring numerous local shops and restaurants, while north of town is New York wine country, with countless wineries all along the lake. For those willing to drive, the town of Ithaca is just a half hour east, where you can find hotels, restaurants, and shopping in the same town that is home to Cornell University. To the south, Elmira and Corning are 30 minutes away – if you visit the latter, you can see the Corning Museum of Glass or the National Soaring Museum. In addition, sightseers routinely flock to Watkins Glen State Park for stunning hiking through a canyon of waterfalls, as well as Lakeside Park, to watch the stars rise over the waters of Seneca Lake.   Fans   1 The fans at Watkins Glen International are usually a cross-section of sports car racing diehards. Unfortunately, they have completely abandoned the July Trans Am date in favor of the other numerous summer offerings at the track, such as IMSA and NASCAR. The massive decrease in car count also doesn’t help either. Adding in the high ticket prices for this event, and you have the perfect storm of not many people coming to watch in person. The campgrounds are pretty sparse at the track all weekend, and very few fans, who weren’t friends or family of the drivers competing, were in attendance. Access   3 The biggest downside in getting to Watkins Glen International is its relatively isolated location – the nearest major highway is I-86 to the south and west, at least a 30-minute drive away. Traffic thankfully doesn’t back up nearby, though, and the roadways are relatively clear all weekend. Once at the track, parking is plentiful all around, but navigating the track’s tunnels, bridges, and walkways can be daunting, as the facility is rather large. Track maps are placed throughout the venue, however, making getting from place to place a little easier.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets to Trans Am weekend rose sharply in 2024, and that trend continued for the 2025 edition, starting at $69 for a one-day weekend ticket to $91 for a weekend pass. This is considerably higher than SpeedTour weekend ticket prices at other racing venues. Parking is free, however, so you can get away without having to pay too much more, and the cost of Trans Am weekend is still much lower than for the NASCAR and IMSA  we ekends at Watkins Glen.   Extras   2 Fans can wander the paddock area for free, giving you a great look at the teams working away at their machines, and Victory Lane is also open to all fans, unlike at larger race series, offering fans the ability to take part in the podium celebration. There was also a fan walk on the grid before the TA2 race on Saturday, for fans to see the cars and stars of Trans Am up close.   Final Thoughts While Watkins Glen is a stellar facility, this weekend is a big miss from the series organizers. Removing the showcase series, Trans Am, from the annual Vintage Grand Prix  in S eptember was a mistake that showed in the lack of fan attendance over the weekend. Nonetheless, Trans Am and FRP put on a great show on track, with tomorrow’s stars showcasing their skills for all to see.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Alumni Hall One Cunningham Square Providence, RI 02908 Providence College Friars Volleyball website Alumni Hall website Year Opened : 1955 Capacity: 1,854 Friartown Volleyball   Alumni Hall was built in 1955 at the direction of Providence College President Rev. Robert Slavin. He felt the men’s basketball team needed an on-campus home to be competitive. Until then, they had played in local gyms off-campus or in a small gym in the basement of Harkins Hall. Built for $1.5 million, 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.   Volleyball has been played at Providence College since 1977. The Friars have won three Big East Conference titles (1983, 1985, 1987) and have qualified for two NCAA tournaments (1983 & 1985).   In 2012, Alumni Hall underwent a $3 million renovation, which included the installation of new seating, lighting, air conditioning, video scoreboards, a control room, a 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 1   There are no concessions available at Alumni Hall during Providence College volleyball games. The Slavin Center, PC’s student union, is attached to Alumni Hall and contains a Dunkin’ Donuts, the campus store, and the Alumni Food Court. Depending on the time of the day and day of the week you may be visiting for a game, you may be able to grab a snack to bring into the game. If nothing happens to be open, there is no issue with fans bringing their own snacks into Alumni Hall to enjoy during a game.   Atmosphere 3   Volleyball is experiencing a surge of interest around the country, but it still lags behind many of the other fall sports in this part of the country. If you’ve never been to a volleyball game, it’s a fast-paced, exciting game with a lot of chances for fans to influence the gameday atmosphere.   The staff at Providence College put on a pretty basic show, which isn’t to say it’s boring by any means; it’s just a bit understated due to the smallish crowds and resources at Alumni Hall. They use the arena’s excellent sound system to play music during time-outs and other play stoppages, the PA announcer adds a bit of energy to the proceedings, fans are into the action, and volleyball players tend to add their own brand of energy to the games as well. If you’ve never experienced a college volleyball match, you’re certain to enjoy yourself. 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, the Ruane Friar Development Center, the Taylor Natatorium, the Slavin Center, and the 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 2   A Friar volleyball crowd is what we usually like to call a “friends and family” type of crowd, meaning that most of the people in attendance have a personal connection with the athletes down on the court. As a result, they are usually pretty knowledgeable about the game and very enthusiastic about supporting their favorite athletes. It’s no exception here in Providence. The crowd is vocal, but not overwhelmingly so. A typical Friar volleyball crowd numbers between 100-250 fans, depending on the opponent and the day of the week of the game. Recent seasons have seen up to 500 fans for bigger games.   While there appears to be some support from the student body, there’s no organized student section or, frankly, any need for one. For big games, the athletic department does put out the call to the students, and they’ve been known to turn out in decent numbers. With much of Providence’s schedule consisting of other teams from New England, you can expect to see some visiting fans in the stands as well. This is a place you can feel comfortable sporting the opposition’s colors.   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 entrance 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 at floor level right on the baseline. Most of the seating for volleyball is in the grandstand on your left, although the small bleachers on each end of the gym are also open. In this bandbox of a gymnasium, all seats have a great view of the action. Restrooms are located in the corners of the facility.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge for admission to Friars volleyball games, nor is there a charge for parking. With no concessions on site, you will not have to reach for your wallet during your time at Alumni Hall.   Extras 2   Banners hang on the walls of Alumni Hall honoring Friar conference championships and tournament appearances in both women’s basketball and volleyball. Several banners hang at the opposite end of the gym honoring legendary figures in Friar women’s basketball history.   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   Alumni Hall is a basic facility that suits the needs of the Providence College volleyball team well. It’s great to see an old gym like this find new life with the school’s women’s programs.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Ashvin Lad, Stadium Journey The playoffs are coming to Banana Ball The Savannah Bananas announced this morning that the inaugural Banana Ball Championship will be held at Grayson Stadium in Savannah from October 2-11, 2025. The event will crown a champion from the four teams that have toured this year for the top banana in Banana Ball. ​ The four teams include the top-seeded Bananas, the second-seeded Party Animals, the third-seeded Texas Tailgaters, and the fourth-seeded Firefighters. The Bananas will take on the Firefighters in the first semifinal game on Thursday, followed by the Party Animals and Tailgaters the next night. The same teams will face off again over the weekend, with a Showdown game taking place if the series is tied. ​ The championship game will be held on Sunday at 7:00 p.m. to crown the winner of the tournament, but the biggest news might take place on Thursday, October 9, during the Banana Ball City Selection Tour. ​ The show will take place from 6:30 to 8:00 pm and include highlights from the past season and what cities will host games next year. It will also debut two new teams that will make up the Banana Ball Championship League. The six-team league will begin in the spring of 2026. ——— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Post season baseball is here. If you’re a fan of the Mets  or Astros , condolences are sent your way. If you’re a fan of the Yankees , Red Sox , Blue Jays , Guardians , Tigers , Mariners , Phillies , Cubs , Brewers , Reds , Padres , or Dodgers , congratulations on your team making it past Game 162. Now, the fun really begins. As the excitement of postseason play builds, if you haven't already, many of you are hoping to purchase those much-coveted postseason digital tickets. Aside from purchasing from the team sites, many of you will also be looking to buy your tickets through various 3rd party sites. At this point, you may be aware of news regarding ticket scammers, or ‘Bad Actors”, hacking into the accounts of fans of the MLB Ballpark app, including yours truly . Reports of fans being scammed from their tickets have surfaced as far back as Labor Day Weekend, and in particular from large markets such as New York , Chicago , Boston , Philadelphia , and Los Angeles . “Bad actors are stealing, reselling fan tickets swiped from MLB’s Ballpark app, MLB acknowledges.”   The Athletic cited MLB about how fans are getting scammed with their valid tickets to enter the ballparks.   Major League Baseball, though says it's not its fault. It's putting the blame on hacks of other online platforms, saying passwords from those apps were most likely used to break into people's MLB apps. The league released a written statement that reads in part: "There is no evidence that this was a breach of the MLB system." "There have been widespread reports of significant data breaches on other platforms. Bad actors then have utilized leaked or stolen credentials from other websites in efforts to access the accounts of MLB fans. We are working tirelessly to address this matter and protect our fans. We want all of our fans to have a great experience when they come to the ballpark, and we are sorry that some fans have had to deal with an issue related to their tickets." "Pretty much everyone under the sun has reused the same password on multiple accounts," said cybersecurity expert Anne Cutler, who works for Keeper Security. "So often, if a cybercriminal can find a password online for one account, they can try it against another account, and that's how they get in." Cutler says it's important for people using the Ballpark app to immediately change their password and create one that is unique, lengthy, and complex. But she is also pointing the finger at MLB, saying its password standards are outdated and don't even allow multi-factor authorization, or MFA. "Users need to be able to have strong, unique passwords. Passkeys should be an option and strong forms of MFA should be available on every single app and website," Cutler said.” ( ABC7.COM ). As for my previous experience, it stemmed from my purchase from StubHub, which, fortunately, was able to be resolved. So you want to see your favorite team in their chase toward Fall Classic glory? Here are some of my tips based upon my experience and other fans I spoke with as well : If possible, I highly recommend you purchase your tickets through the team's main ticketing site. If your purchase was directly from the team and your tickets have disappeared before and up to the date of the game, call them directly and have your MLB Ballpark App account ready, and if possible, the date you purchased your tickets and the seat locations. If you arrive at the venue and your tickets have disappeared, go directly to the nearest ticket office and have the information listed above ready.  Routinely check your app to see if your tickets are still there. There should be a barcode with your seat locations, the date of the game, and your name. Though tedious, you may also want to routinely change the password on your MLB Ballpark app. If you should receive an email from MLB.com Account Service to change your password due to unusual activity in your account, check your ballpark app as well to see if you're still in possession of your tickets. Should they be missing from your app, call the point of contact immediately, be it a 3rd party site or directly from the team. If attending the event with others, if possible, arrive at the event as one whole group rather than transferring or receiving transferred tickets. Though not a guarantee but if the tickets are purchased through the team's main site, this could avoid any further difficulties reclaiming and hopefully keeping all your tickets together. If your purchase is from a 3rd party site, this is where it could be tricky. If your experience is anything like mine and other fans I spoke with, you’ll probably be told to contact the site of purchase. Should you decide to purchase your playoff tickets through a 3rd party site such as StubHub or SeatGeek, be sure that they have a FanProtect Guarantee . Again, though not a guarantee, hopefully those issues can be resolved as well. If you feel the need to contact the 3rd party site directly, here are some numbers… StubHub 1-888-720-9452 SeatGeek 1-888-506-4101 GameTime 1-888-355-0132 TickPick 1-845-538-4567 These are just some tips to protect you from your postseason ticket purchases, and hopefully, you will not fall victim to being scammed out of your tickets. If you do become a victim, hopefully these tips will help you retain your tickets or be reissued other tickets without being charged extra. Also, if you have the time, contact  MLB Customer Support  and make them aware of your experience. You can also contact MLB Customer Support directly at 1-866-244-2291 and make MLB aware of its negligence regarding this matter. But remember, BUYER BEWARE.

Terry Foy, Inside Lacrosse's CEO, wears many hats, including podcast host of the very popular “How Recruiting Works.” On the pod, Terry pulls down the curtain on the college lacrosse recruiting process. Each episode, he converses with a different coach. Besides recruiting info, audiences get acquainted with some of the most colorful personalities in the game. It’s fun, compelling stuff, even if you're not familiar with the game. Terry took a few minutes to discuss his popular show and some other stuff.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Let's start with a page from your podcast playbook. How much is recruiting coverage the lifeblood of Inside Lacrosse? TERRY FOY: That’s a really good question because, while the first Inside Lacrosse recruiting issue came out in 1997 and our recruiting coverage has been evolving ever since, it has changed a lot and become even more important over the last two years. Identifying and helping cultivate the next stars of the game is central to what we do. It’s popular, it’s proprietary, it matches our skills, and it helps generate new fans more than pretty much every other type of content we could prioritize. Our college scoreboard will likely always be our lifeblood, but recruiting coverage has ramped up in importance considerably.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How and when does a young Terry Foy get the lacrosse bug? What was/is it about the game that grabs you and won't let go? What was the lacrosse scene like in Cleveland back then? TERRY FOY: Some time between 1993, when I was 8, and 1995, when I was 10, I was the ballboy-waterboy on my brother’s teams, and being around those guys was so, so cool. I started going to my future high school’s summer camps, and that was the only time I got to play all year — there was no youth lacrosse. There were about 15-20 teams in Ohio when he graduated, and between 60-70 by the time I graduated. It wasn’t state-sanctioned, but it was pretty well organized — though the gap between how seriously each program took it was wide. Upper Arlington was the gold standard, with the Dublin programs in pursuit and Cleveland-Cincinnati having to close the gap on the Columbus schools.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How much has lacrosse grown in Ohio since then? Is it approaching hotbed status? What's a hidden lacrosse hotbed? TERRY FOY: It’s grown really well. The state governing body, the OHSAA, sanctioned the sport before the 2016-17 season, and there are more than 150 boys and girls teams. I don’t know what the threshold is for what is or isn’t a hotbed anymore. This is how I think about it: Historic-forever hotbeds: Upstate New York, Long Island, Baltimore. Became bona fide hotbeds at some point between 1980-2010: D.C., Philly, New Jersey, Hudson Valley (NY), Fairfield County (CT), Boston, Ontario. In recent hotbed consideration: Denver, Atlanta, South Florida, Dallas, San Diego, NorCal, Portland, Seattle, and Chicago. Of those, I couldn’t be more impressed by the way lacrosse has grown in Atlanta. There are a lot of contributing factors — specifically the socio-demography and the size of the public high schools — that I think are the main causes, and I think it will only continue to become a more consistent producer of high-end talent. I talked about it with Ryan Danehy on that How Recruiting Works episode, in case you haven’t listened to that one yet.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Besides it being a great school, what brings you east to Loyola, Maryland? Were you recruited? TERRY FOY: I was not recruited, nor did I play lacrosse at Loyola. I played football and lacrosse in high school, but, being a goalie from Ohio, I was nowhere near good enough to play high-level DI lacrosse, not to mention Loyola brought in the No. 1 recruiting class my freshman year. I chose Loyola because the Jesuit high school I attended certainly advocated for Jesuit colleges, and it was a big thing in my family. I fulfilled a geographic pattern as my oldest brother went to Loyola Marymount in LA and the middle brother went to St. Louis U. I didn’t know that Inside Lacrosse existed, but I had a sense that if something like it did, it’d probably be in Baltimore. I had gotten into writing for the student newspaper in high school, so I knew I had an interest in sports and media. There were other reasons. I had friends coming to Loyola, I loved the campus — all the normal reasons, but it is true that once I learned IL existed after I arrived in Baltimore, my entire goal structure became “get a job there.”   STADIUM JOURNEY: What were your collegiate years like? When does writing and journalism come into your wheelhouse? When do writing and lacrosse collide? TERRY FOY: I lived across a parking lot from the student newspaper office, walked in one day in October, and immediately got assigned to the women’s soccer, swimming, and men’s lacrosse beats. I was the sports editor my sophomore year and Editor-in-Chief my junior and senior years. I got involved with IL during my freshman-sophomore years, then contributed less when I got busier, but stayed in touch.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Everyone knows about Klockner, The Dome, and Homewood. Which lacrosse venue doesn't get a lot of ink - a hidden gem - that provides an incredible atmosphere? TERRY FOY: Dorrance Field (North Carolina) is basically my Platonic ideal of a lacrosse stadium — seats on all sides, really three, but the fourth side is enclosed, close to the action on the sidelines but protected from missed shots on the endline, incredible grass surface, really picturesque. My actual Platonic ideal of a lacrosse stadium is Torero Stadium, on USD’s campus. I went to a college event there — Bucknell-Navy, Loyola-Duke — in 2006 and held that in my back pocket before being completely vindicated by the 2023 World Lacrosse Championship and now the PLL returning the last couple of years. We’re working on getting varsity lacrosse to USD. My colleague Matt Kinnear always caps for Marist, but I’ve never been there. This probably won’t qualify as “doesn’t get a lot of ink,” but I went to their Virginia game this year, and it was like the 10 th -straight epic home environment, so it deserves mention here, I think: Arlotta Stadium (Notre Dame). It’s not just the amenities and architecture of the venue; it’s the crowds. The gates opened an hour before face-off, fans flowed in, and it was nearly full less than five minutes later. What they have going on out there is truly remarkable.   STADIUM JOURNEY: This is a broad question, but I'll ask it anyway. What fascinates you about the college recruiting process? TERRY FOY: Fascinate might not be the right word, but the reason I feel compelled to do the “How Recruiting Works” podcasts is because I think recruiting hits the intersection of “very important to families” and “fairly opaque process.” The combination of how lacrosse player evaluation is so subjective to the coach-evaluator and the nuance of scholarships and now additional monetary benefits, admissions support, playing time, and culture fit - lacrosse-wise and non-lacrosse-wise - is so complicated. At the outset of the podcast series, I think they were popular because the realities of some of those situations were directly and specifically spoken to: Lars Tiffany on scholarship allotments, Nick Myers on NIL, and Andy Shay on Ivy admissions slots stand out in my memory. But after nearly 40, the amount of new information is somewhat exhausted — or, like Jeff Tambroni’s recent comments about the way post-House Settlement is coming together, unknown — so I really think the main value now is providing a moderately extended look into each coach’s personality and, to a slightly lesser degree, his approach.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Are there any plans to expand the college recruiting podcast to include women's coaches and sub-D1 coaches? TERRY FOY: As a matter of fact, yes. Check back later this week. Jon Hart is  @manversusball

Image courtesy of Selig Enterprises Will cricket find a home in the heart of the Deep South? A cricket stadium is planned for 45 acres of land, 45 minutes southwest of Atlanta. LaGrange Cricket Stadium will be part of a development site that will also house retail, residential, dining, and neighborhood amenities. The founders of DAS Cricket Academy and the NJ Blackcaps cricket club closed on the sale of the land and will privately finance the cricket venue that will be the fourth of its kind in the United States. The stadium will seat 10,500 with the ability to expand to 25,000, and will be ICC (International Cricket Council)-regulated in size. The stadium will also feature a FIFA-regulated soccer field and have the ability to host a variety of events. Cricket’s roots in the United States stretch back to the 19th century, but only in recent years has it started to gain traction among new audiences. Fueled by international tournaments broadcast across U.S. networks, Major League Cricket’s debut in 2023, and immigrant communities keeping traditions alive, cricket is quietly but steadily gaining momentum. There are also plans to include office and residential units, fine dining concepts, retail space, and neighborhood amenities. Groundbreaking will take place this fall with completion in the first quarter of 2027. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark 2 S. Mickey Mantle Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73104 Oklahoma City Comets website Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 9,000 Oklahoma City Oklahoma City, the capital of Oklahoma, is known nationally for its location as an anchor in the Midwest’s Tornado Alley, as well as the location of a horrific act of domestic terrorism, the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Despite being shrouded by such a dark history, the city offers much more for visitors than many people could imagine. This budding metropolis, ranking as the 20th largest city in the US according to the 2020 census, is a hidden gem in an area of the country that is often forgotten or underappreciated. Serving as a regional hub of commerce and entertainment, OKC is home to a varied mix of cultures, most notably Native American, Hispanic, Vietnamese, and more. Professional baseball in Oklahoma City is older than Oklahoma’s statehood (1907), dating back to the Metropolitans, who were formed in 1904. Other than a break in 1913 and a three-year hiatus during World War II, there was professional baseball in the city until 1957. During that time, in addition to the Mets, the team played under the monikers Indians, Senators, and Boosters at different times. The team enjoyed membership primarily in the Texas League and Western League during its history, but also participated in the Southwestern League and Oklahoma State League at times. The city gained affiliation with Major League teams beginning in 1941, playing under the Cleveland Indians , New York Giants, and Boston Red Sox  off and on until 1957, at which time the Indians left OKC for Corpus Christi when the Texas League restructured. In 1962, MLB added an expansion team in Houston, the Colt 45’s, predecessor to the Astros, and placed its Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma City 89ers, named after 1889 and the land rush, began what has been a 63-year run of Double-A and Triple-A baseball in OKC. Other than the Astros, the team has been an affiliate of the Phillies , Rangers , Indians , and Dodgers , which is their current parent club. The team has also rebranded a few times, playing under the names of RedHawks, Dodgers, Oklahoma City Baseball Club, and, most recently, the Comets. The Comet name was announced in the fall of 2024 to honor OK native “Commerce Comet” Mickey Mantle, as well as being a nod to the state’s ties in the aerospace industry.   Food & Beverage   4 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark offers a solid selection of ballpark fare, ranging from one-third-pound burgers, nachos, Comet Dogs (hot dogs), and multiple snack items. There are regional and specialty items available as well, such as Pi Pizza and Foul Ball Chicken. Fans can also find tacos, cheesesteak, and barbecue in selected concession spots. Fans should also take advantage of the COOP Beer Garden where there is a selection of 4 locally branded beers on tap, as well as more local styles and domestics available in cans. For non-alcoholic beverages, flavored tea from HTeaO and Pepsi products are available throughout the park. Lastly, Boom Town Creamery lets you beat the heat during an Oklahoma summer evening with a scoop or two of OKC Comets Crunch ice cream, served in a souvenir helmet or waffle cone; it really hits the spot.   Atmosphere   4 Built in 1998 as a catalyst to spur downtown revitalization in OKC, Bricktown Ballpark became a popular venue ranking as high as number 2 in Baseball America’s 1998 minor league ballpark rankings, and remained in the top 10 as recently as 2013, courtesy of USA Today's Readers’ Choice Awards. Despite seating over 13,000 fans in double-decked stands on opening night, the current seating capacity is 9,000, with much of the upper deck closed to fans, due to seats being removed and bare concrete or advertising signage visible. Along with the mile-long man-made canal, constructed in 1999, the Bricktown Neighborhood has become a vibrant entertainment district and tourist attraction for thousands of people annually. The stadium facade is constructed of red brick , matching many of the historic buildings that were originally warehouses and industrial buildings nearby, which gave the neighborhood its moniker.   Neighborhood   5 Located in the heart of Bricktown in downtown Oklahoma City, the ballpark is within walking distance of a plethora of food and drink options. Restaurants mere footsteps from the ballpark gates include Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Whiskey Chicks, The Melting Pot, Texadelphia, and Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, among others. For fans looking for activities other than Triple A baseball, options are plentiful in the area – within just a few minutes of Chickasaw Bricktown Stadium, you will find Riversport OKC, home of the US Olympic canoe, kayak, and rowing training centers. There are also multiple shopping options, not the least of which is Cabela’s.   Fans   4 Oklahoma City has averaged between 5,000 and 5,500 fans per game in most seasons since 2015, with a high of 6,713 per game in 2018. This means that most games have more than 50% capacity, which is enough to provide for an entertaining environment. At the game I last attended, though it was marred by inclement weather, the fans were engaged and provided a fun atmosphere for the home team.   Access   5 Located in Bricktown, merely blocks from Paycom Center, home of the NBA’s OKC Thunder , there is ample parking immediately across the street from the ballpark. There is one lot across Joe Carter Avenue that charges $10 to park, which is merely 100 yards from the first base gate entrance, but if you are willing to walk just a little, there is free parking in several large lots within an easy 5-to-10-minute walk. For overnight travelers, there are numerous hotels in the Bricktown area, some of which are behind the left field wall of the ballpark; these include Hilton Garden Inn ,   Hampton Inn & Suites , Homewood Suites, and Courtyard by Marriott. Most of these accommodations range in price from $125 to $200 per night and have positive reviews. For fans looking to spend less for their lodging, there are numerous options within a short drive of downtown. OKC’s Will Rogers International Airport is said to be easy to navigate – it is served by Delta, American, Southwest, and United Airlines, with multiple flights departing and arriving daily. If ground travel is preferred, however, Interstate 35, Interstate 40, and Interstate 44 all converge in the OKC metro area. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour, mainly due to road construction (planning for area growth) and in anticipation of the 2028 Summer Olympics.   Return on Investment   4 With the low cost of tickets and ample free parking in and around the stadium, the cost of attendance is well within the budget of any baseball fan. Add the fact that concessions are on the lower end of pricing for stadium for food and drinks, and attending Comets games is an economical entertainment option.   Extras   5 The Comet fans sing Oklahoma, the state song, after Take Me Out to the Ballgame during the 7th inning stretch. This show of state pride is worthy of special recognition and adds a unique, regional touch to the experience. The number of downtown attractions, including the river, museums, restaurants, and bars, is worth noting as well. One special attraction is the Jim Thorpe Museum and Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, which is located on the northwest corner of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, near the third base gate of the venue. An extra point is also given for the sports history attached to the park; the street names surrounding Chickasaw Bricktown Park carry the names of some of Oklahoma’s baseball and entertainment stars of the past. These names include Joe Carter Avenue, Mickey Mantle Drive, and Flaming Lips Alley. In addition, the statues and plaques honoring all the major leaguers with ties to Oklahoma also garner an extra point. More value is also provided here due to the welcoming and friendly nature of the staff and fans of the team – the way the staff make visitors feel comfortable as they enter the stadium is worthy of note. One final point is also awarded for the organization and quality of the team store, where there are multiple items available from all the past and present team identities, including logos from previous parent clubs.   Final Thoughts Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, even though it’s the second-oldest ballpark in the Pacific League, presents a great setting for Triple-A baseball. Free parking and reasonably priced concessions allow families to attend games without busting the monthly budget. In addition to high-level minor league baseball, Oklahoma’s capital city provides plenty of entertainment and dining options for fans of all ages. OKC, sitting in the center of the country and home to a little over 700,000 residents, is underrated by most travel experts. As a hidden gem, planning a visit to Bricktown Ballpark should be on all baseball fans’ bucket lists.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, is one of the premier Hall of Fames dedicated to a professional sport in the U.S.A. It opened in 1963 with a mission of honoring the greatest of the game, promoting its values, and celebrating excellence together. The selection of Canton, Ohio, as its home was very meaningful, as the NFL was founded in that city as the American Professional Football Association; it was also the home of the Canton Bulldogs, one of the power teams in the early days of pro football. It also had the support of the citizens of the city, who were rightfully proud of the major part their hometown had played in the creation of the NFL. While many people think of a Hall of Fame as a dusty museum with a bunch of busts sitting on a shelf, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a vibrant, state-of-the-art facility that uses video, AI, holograms, social media, and other technologies to tell the story of the NFL and its elite players, coaches, and owners. The multi-story Hall of Fame is divided into a series of galleries, with each focusing on a different aspect of pro football. The first of these galleries is entitled the First Century Gallery, and it takes visitors on a tour of the game’s beginnings in the smaller cities of the Midwest. It tells the stories of how the league was formed, as well as saluting the early elite players of the era. A statue of Jim Thorpe prominently appears in this gallery. The Lamar Hunt Super Bowl Gallery looks at the phenomenon that the league’s championship game has become since the initial game in Los Angeles pitted two entirely separate leagues, the NFL and the AFL, against each other to decide a world champion for the sport. Displays are saluting each succeeding Super Bowl up to the most recent game, with the current champion having the most prominent display. This section also features the actual Lombardi Trophy awarded to the winning team. Several different Super Bowl rings are also on display in this gallery. The section of the Pro Football Hall of Fame most people tend to think of is the Hall of Fame Gallery. The busts of 382 players, coaches, and owners who have been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame are on display in this area. There are kiosks in the room which provide detailed information on each inductee’s contributions to, and impact on the game. The most recent inductee’s uniforms and artifacts receive additional attention in this room. The final section of the Hall of Fame tour takes you to the Pro Football Today Gallery. It addresses the impact the game has had on racial equality, pop culture, and society in general. This section is constantly updated throughout the current NFL season as new NFL records are set. Visitors to the Pro Football Hall of Fame can enjoy interactive skill exhibits, have their photos done with NFL helmets, gear, and backdrops for a souvenir, and shop in the huge NFL store at the end of their visit. The Pro Football Hall of Fame anchors a larger Hall of Fame campus. Other elements on this campus include the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, which hosts the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies, as well as the Hall of Fame Game that kicks off the NFL preseason each summer. There are also several playing fields devoted to youth football on the campus, as well as a shopping and restaurant development with a football theme. The Pro Football Hall of Fame is located at exit 107B of I-77, approximately 60 miles south of Cleveland, Ohio. The Hall of Fame is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is $45 for adults and $38 for children (aged 6-12). Seniors receive a special ticket price every Tuesday. Pro Football Hall of Fame 2121 George Halas Drive, NW Canton, OH 44708 www.profootballhof.com

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 American Legion Memorial Stadium 1218 Armory Dr Charlotte, NC 28204 Charlotte Independence website American Legion Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1936 Capacity: 10,500 C’mon You Jacks Charlotte Independence is a professional soccer club competing in USL League One. Founded in 2014, the team acquired the USL Pro franchise rights from its predecessor, the Charlotte Eagles, who have since moved to USL League Two. The club’s name and crest draw inspiration from the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, featuring the year 1775 and Captain James Jack, who is said to have carried the declaration to Philadelphia. In his honor, the team is affectionately known as “The Jacks.” The Independence have called several stadiums home over the years; they opened their inaugural season at Transamerica Field on UNC Charlotte’s campus, with some matches also played across the state line at Winthrop University’s Eagle Field. From there, the club moved into Ramblewood Soccer Complex, before transitioning to the Sportsplex at Matthews, which offered improved amenities but sat outside central Charlotte. Today, the Independence plays at American Legion Memorial Stadium, a refurbished venue in the city’s Elizabeth neighborhood just east of Uptown. In addition to the men’s first team, the Independence have fielded a women’s team as well as developmental teams. A women’s team joined the USL W League in 2022, before transitioning in 2024 to Carolina Ascent FC, a new professional women’s side in the USL Super League. On the men’s side, the Independence also fields a USL League Two squad as part of their developmental pathway. In 2022, the club also formed an affiliation with MLS side Charlotte FC . Under this agreement, Charlotte FC loans a minimum of three players each season to the Independence, allowing young talent to earn competitive minutes while strengthening ties between the two organizations.   Food & Beverage   3 The concessions menu at American Legion Memorial Stadium sticks to the familiar: hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches, nachos, pretzels, and popcorn. Nothing groundbreaking, but it covers the basics. Snack options are a bit more ample – fans can choose from cotton candy, Dippin’ Dots, frozen bananas, candy apples, Italian ice, and even Kool-Aid pickles. Soft drinks come from the Pepsi line and also include Gatorade, along with both regular and strawberry lemonade. Charlotte’s craft beer scene gets strong representation at the stadium. NoDa Brewing contributes Pitch Side Pilsner, Cheerwine Ale, and 1775 Pal Ale, while Town Brewing offers Mariachi Static and Hazy Behavior IPA. Hopfly, the team’s official craft brewer, rounds out the selection with Hello From the Future IPA, Tail Spin, Crunch Time Lager, Carolina Crush, Wheat Ale, and Our Time Lager, giving fans plenty of options to sample the best of the city’s local brews.   Atmosphere   2 American Legion Memorial Stadium is a classic bowl design, with the concourse running atop the seating and concession stands and restrooms spread evenly around. Nestled between the buildings of Central Piedmont Community College and an eight-level parking deck, the stadium blends into its surroundings almost seamlessly. Beyond the northwest end, the Charlotte skyline majestically sets the backdrop beyond the end of the stadium. A large scoreboard sits at the far end of the stadium, running a feed of the match with a ribbon showing the time and score. Basic match stats like penalties, corners, shots, or saves are not displayed. Seating is limited to the near end of the pitch and the western side of the bowl. Bleacher seats behind the goals provide great views of the skyline, though they put the action at the far end of the field well into the distance. Along the touchline, seats stay close to the action, combining aluminum bleachers with back supports and two sections of individual seats at midfield. Endline seating is strictly bleachers, while the entire eastern side of the stadium is typically closed off. The current attendance numbers, with the larger size of the venue, can make matches feel flat. Even with the supporters doing their best to bring energy, their chants and excitement often seem to disappear into the emptiness of the stadium.   Neighborhood   4 American Legion Memorial Stadium sits just outside Charlotte’s I-277, which runs through the city’s Uptown district. The stadium is bordered by Central Piedmont Community College and a handful of local restaurants just to the east, marking where the city center begins to give way to surrounding neighborhoods. Several local restaurants along Elizabeth Avenue include The Big Ben Pub, The People’s Market, Viva Chicken, and the Elizabeth Creamery. Just a few blocks off Elizabeth Avenue, Sabdor Latin Street Grill, Caswell Station, and Lupie’s Cafe are also nearby options. Just over a mile away, Uptown Charlotte offers additional attractions, including the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Museum of Illusion. The area is also anchored by the Mint Museum Uptown, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Harvey B. Gantt Center, and Levine Museum of the New South, giving fans plenty to explore before or after a match.   Fans   2 Since 2022, when the Independence self-relegated from USL Championship to League One, attendance has steadily declined, dropping from a high of 2,300 fans per match to an average of less than 800 this season. While multiple factors may be at play, the decline has coincided with the rise of Charlotte FC , which has clearly drawn attention and support away from the Independence. Part of the challenge comes from divided loyalties in a city with both USL and MLS, with affiliated sides. Unlike other cities with clear rivalries, Charlotte fans tend to support both sides, though the majority lean toward Charlotte FC, leaving the Independence on the short end of the stick.   Access   4 American Legion Memorial Stadium sits just off I-277, which circles downtown Charlotte. While traffic is typically manageable, just like in most large cities, there are occasional slowdowns. Parking is conveniently located adjacent to the stadium, making arrivals and departures straightforward. The city’s light rail system, Lynx, also serves the stadium via the Yellow Line, with a stop less than a block away that connects directly to Uptown Charlotte. The stadium has a single point of entry on Charlottetown Avenue. Gates open 30 minutes before kickoff, which can create brief backups, but once the initial crowd clears, entry is smooth with little to no wait. Inside, fans enter a wide, spacious concourse that makes navigating the stadium easy. The only potentially tight spot is behind the press box and concessions, but the current size of the crowds keeps congestion minimal.   Return on Investment   3 Starting ticket prices for Charlotte Independence games are $18, though fees and taxes bring the total to just over $22. While this is roughly the league average, the price feels high considering the team’s struggles to draw fans. Parking in the nearby garage runs $10, which is reasonable given the downtown location. Concessions are fairly priced, offering what fans would expect at a stadium without breaking the bank.   Extras   1 American Legion Memorial Stadium offers fans a clear view of downtown Charlotte, similar to what’s seen from the nearby Charlotte Knights’ ballpark. The Bank of America Corporate Center, North Carolina’s tallest building, anchors the west end of the stadium, creating a striking backdrop for games that is unmatched.   Final Thoughts American Legion Memorial Stadium gives Charlotte Independence fans a central home with easy access to downtown, local restaurants, and attractions. The venue offers great views of the field and city skyline, while the team’s supporters add personality to match days. Still, the stadium’s size relative to current attendance can make games feel empty and flat. Despite these challenges, the Independence provides a more affordable soccer alternative in Charlotte, just a few miles from the city’s MLS side .

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Linda Johnson Smith Soccer Stadium 1 College St. Worcester, MA 01610 Holy Cross Crusaders men's soccer website Linda Johnson Smith Soccer Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 1,320 Crusader Soccer   The Linda Johnson Smith Soccer Stadium officially opened for the 2006 soccer season. The first game played here was a women’s match between Holy Cross and Providence College. The pitch became the first permanent home for both the men’s and women’s programs for Crusader soccer. The stadium is named in gratitude for Linda and Park B. Smith, class of 1954 alumni, for their leadership and contributions to the construction of the $2 million project.   Soccer has been played at Holy Cross since 1965. The school began a women’s program in 1983. Today, the Crusaders compete in the Patriot League, a conference consisting of small private schools in the northeast. The Holy Cross men’s soccer team has appeared in the NCAA tournament one time (2002), losing in the first round. The women’s team has also appeared in one NCAA tournament (2000), losing in the first round.   Food & Beverage 1   There are no concessions available at Smith Stadium. Most fans bring their own drinks and snacks to Crusader soccer games. Veteran Crusader fans will come to games well-stocked with food and drink to enjoy in the Greene Family Plaza or in the parking lots before or after the game. As the season progresses and the temperatures start to dip, you’ll be sure to see lots of hot beverages from the local Dunkin’ in the bleachers.   There are vending machines in the Hart Center, should you come unprepared and want to take the long walk to get a drink or snack.   Atmosphere 3   The gameday presentation at a Crusader soccer game is a pretty standard one for a school here in the northeast. There just aren’t many places in a typical soccer game where staff can insert themselves into the presentation. Much of the energy at a soccer game has to come from the stands and the fans. Luckily, the friends and families of the players are generally up to the task.   There is a simple scoreboard in the east corner of the field which displays game information. The PA announcer gives game information and injects some energy where he can, and music plays over a good sound system during breaks in play. It’s a pleasant place to take in a game on a nice fall afternoon or evening.   Neighborhood 3   Worcester is the second-largest city in all of New England, but has never enjoyed much of a reputation as a destination location. That all began to change when the city announced that the Pawtucket Red Sox would be moving to the brand-new Polar Park , located just 2.5 miles from the Holy Cross campus.   The Holy Cross campus is located in southwestern Worcester, about three miles from downtown. There isn’t much in the immediate area of campus in terms of dining or lodging options, but the city of Worcester contains many excellent options.   Worcester’s acclaimed “ Restaurant Row ” on Shrewsbury Street is home to over forty different eateries, shops, and salons. It’s a favorite destination for locals looking to enjoy a night on the town. Fans will find additional options in the downtown area around the DCU Center . The up-and-coming Canal District, anchored by the new Polar Park , is rapidly growing and worth a look. Likewise, fans looking for lodging options should head downtown, as there is nothing around Holy Cross.   Traditionally overshadowed by its neighbors in Boston and Providence, Worcester is carving out its own niche as an affordable, attractive alternative to those cities. For fans visiting during ski season, Wachusett Mountain  is located just ten miles outside of city limits.   Fans 2   Holy Cross doesn’t draw as well as the bigger-name Division One programs in the area. A scan of recent box scores shows that a Crusader soccer crowd tends to average around 200 fans, topping out at around 400 fans per game. Of course, it doesn’t help that the weather in Worcester tends to turn colder quicker in Worcester than in other parts of New England.   This is certainly what we at Stadium Journey would call a “friends and family” crowd. Everyone seems to be connected to someone on the pitch. With a large portion of the Crusaders' schedule consisting of games against other New England teams, there is a good turnout from visiting team supporters as well. The fans here are generally loud and supportive of their favorite players and the home team.   Access 3   The Holy Cross campus is located in southwestern Worcester, at the junction of Interstate 290 and Route 146. Smith Soccer Stadium is located at the southern edge of campus atop Mount Saint James, behind the Luth Complex (home of the Crusaders basketball and hockey venues) and adjacent to many of the school’s athletic facilities. Complete driving directions to the Holy Cross campus can be found here .   Smith Soccer Stadium is located right behind the Luth Center, adjacent to the Hart Track and Field Center. There is a parking lot on the side of the Luth Complex, which is convenient to the soccer pitch, as well as on the access road that circles the facility. Restrooms are located inside the Hart Center as well. There are no concessions or restroom facilities outside at Smith Soccer Stadium.   Seating consists of a set of bleachers that runs the length of one side of the pitch. In a neat setup, the soccer field and track complex share a press box on top of their back-to-back bleachers. Depending on which field is holding an event, everyone in the press box will utilize one side of the press box or the other. There is plenty of standing room atop the bleachers for fans who need to stretch their legs a little.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge for admission to Holy Cross soccer games. Parking is also free in the lots surrounding the Luth Center. With no concessions available, you won’t need to reach for your wallet even once when visiting Worcester.   Extras 1   The views of the city of Worcester from the top of Mount Saint James and the front of the Luth Complex are spectacular, especially on a crisp fall day.   Final Thoughts   Smith Soccer Stadium is a simple but attractive facility that suits the needs of the Holy Cross soccer teams well. While you’re enjoying some soccer, you can take in some great views of the city of Worcester below.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Thomas Athletic Field 601 Blazer Trail Frederick, MD 21701 Hood Blazers website Thomas Athletic Field website Year Opened: 2009 (Renovated) Capacity: 500 The Blazers Hood College is a private college in Frederick, Maryland, with around 2,000 students. Hood was started in 1893 by the Potomac Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States as the Woman's College of Frederick. An all-female institution until 1971, the college initially admitted men only as commuters. This continued until 2003, when male students were offered the option of residential status. Hood College has consistently been ranked in the U.S. News & World Report list for Best University in the Northeast. Hood has had athletics as far back as 1898 (women’s basketball). The Thomas Athletic Field is where the school’s field hockey, women's and men's lacrosse, and women's and men's soccer teams compete. The Hood Blazers mainly compete in the Middle Atlantic Conferences as part of the Commonwealth sub-conference, which is in NCAA Division III. The Blazers' nickname started in the 1920s when the campus elected a rising senior as the "White Sweater" girl as someone who possessed the most sportsmanship and school spirit. Currently, the nickname is represented by a horse with a "blaze" mark on its forehead. Food & Beverage 0 There is no permanent food stand at the stadium. Atmosphere 3 This is a simple, but still nice, lower-level college soccer field. There is a row of four small grandstands along one side of the pitch. Neighborhood 4 Frederick has a lot of things to offer fans who are visiting. There is plenty of Civil War history, antique shops, great restaurants, wonderful parks, covered bridges, performing arts and culture, and unique shopping. Shopping, lodging, and restaurants are abundant at nearby Francis Scott Key Mall and its surrounding area. Downtown Frederick may offer even better choices. The surprising renaissance of downtown Frederick means that there is an ever-growing selection of restaurants and shopping in the area. Brewer’s Alley Restaurant & Brewery, one of the beer providers in the stadium, has a location on North Market Street if you are on the lookout for a local brewpub. The Roy Rogers fast food is still thriving around Frederick. You must stop in and enjoy the roast beef sandwich; you will never want to have one at Arby’s again. Also, don’t forget to use the Fixin’s Bar and get a holster of fries. You can also choose from Double-R-Burgers, Gold Rush Chicken sandwiches, or fried chicken. Francis Scott Key is buried across town. The lawyer and poet wrote the lyrics to the United States National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The Appalachian Trail is also nearby for outdoor adventurers. Frederick is also fairly close to both Baltimore and Washington, DC. Fans 4 As with most small college fields, the bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. Access 3 Frederick is located just off a major highway (I-70), but Hood College is located within the neighborhoods of a fairly old city, with some small roads accessing it. There is also limited parking on this small campus, so you may have to search a bit for decent parking. Visitors do not need a parking permit at night, but if attending a daytime event here during a normal school day, you may wish to check on parking regulations. Return on Investment 2 Their website, as of this visit, said that. “Admission to athletic contests at Thomas Athletic Field is free for all fans,” but another correspondent on another day was charged $7, although we didn’t have to pay on the day we attended the game. Maybe it was due to the rain. Maybe they knew we were press. We later confirmed that there is indeed a $7 charge, and the school said they were going to correct the website. Frankly, the $7 charge is way too much for this level of sports. . Extras 3 Francis Scott Key’s Grave gives Frederick a pretty interesting extra for the area. Carroll Creek Park, within walking distance of the campus, is a world-class urban park, and there are restaurants, live music, public art, and a scenic pedestrian path. Final Thoughts The Thomas Athletic Field is a simple venue that offers a great small college atmosphere for the sports fan with a bit too high of admission charge.

Photo by Jeremy Inson, Stadium Journey. Nearly a century of Italian football tradition is set to be consigned to history. Milan’s legendary San Siro, home to AC Milan and Inter Milan , is slated for demolition after the city council narrowly approved the sale of the stadium to both clubs. The €197 million deal passed by a slim 24–20 margin after 12 hours of heated debate. The agreement paves the way for a sweeping €1.2 billion redevelopment that will see a brand-new, 71,500-seat stadium rise on the site’s western car park. While 90 percent of San Siro will be torn down, a heritage section of the iconic second tier will be preserved as a tribute to its legacy. Built in 1926, San Siro has been Italy’s largest stadium, with an 80,000-seat capacity, and has hosted European finals, countless derbies, and the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony. AC Milan has called the venue home since day one, with Inter moving in two decades later, creating one of the world’s most unique stadium-sharing arrangements. The new venue is targeted for completion by 2032, just in time for Italy’s co-hosting of the European Championship with Italy. UEFA regulations mean the aging San Siro no longer qualifies for such a tournament, adding urgency to the project. Since its inaugural match on September 19, 1926, San Siro has stood as a temple of the sport. Soon, only echoes will remain. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Ashvin Lad joins us to talk about his experience at the World Cup this past year in Qatar. Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Tuesday night at 7PM eastern at www.danlaw.tv.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey, and McDaniel College Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Kenneth R. Gill Stadium 99 Stadium Dr Westminster, MD 21157 Green Terror website Kenneth R. Gill Stadium website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 1,434 Home of the Green Terror McDaniel College is a private four-year liberal arts college in Westminster, Maryland. It was established in 1867 and until 2002 was known as Western Maryland College. The name of the college did not reflect the geographic placement of the school as it is not located in the western part of the state. Instead, it was named for the Western Maryland Railroad, which shared some common board members. The new name of the college honored alumnus William Roberts McDaniel and his 65-year association with the school. Westminster is located 30 miles northwest of Baltimore and is a far suburb of that city. Over 160,000 people live in the area and the surrounding area of Carroll County, Maryland. The unique Green Terror’s name stems from how teams would describe the Western Maryland players as “Terrors” on the football field. The name stuck, and since 192,3 they have been known as the Green Terror. McDaniel College plays as a member of the Division III Centennial Conference against schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Ursinus College, and Franklin & Marshall College. The fields of McDaniel College/Western Maryland College were also the summer training camp of the Baltimore Ravens until the 2011 season when the team chose to relocate spring training to their main Owings Mills, Maryland facility. The old Baltimore Colts had also used the college as a training ground for many years. Food & Beverage 0 There is one single concession stand located behind the new grandstand. It is not often open for field hockey games. Atmosphere 2 The football stadium, which is fairly small, is still too big for field hockey games. There is not much atmosphere beyond the PA announcer. The new stands are very nice. There are some seats with seatbacks, but the rest are simple bench-type seating, although there is a large amount of legroom, which is nice. There is a small concourse under the grandstands houses that small concession stand and some history of the school and its athletic programs. The only other issue is that the track that surrounds the football field keeps the fans a bit away from the game action. There is a nice scoreboard on the south end of the field. Neighborhood 4 Westminster, being a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a pretty traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located nearby to campus and is one of the best family-type restaurants around, and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices, such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 3 There is usually a small crowd attending field hockey games. It is mainly friends and families of the athletes. Access 4 The parking can be a bit tight as it is a small college, and there are only so many places to park. Parking is free, although you can choose to pay $10 for close parking, as well as pay for tailgate spots. Westminster is a small town, so large crowds can easily overwhelm the streets around the school. Pla,n and it won’t be a large issue. Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster, and it stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. Return on Investment 5 There is no cost to attend Green Terror field hockey games. Extras 2 The Western Maryland Railroad caboose is located next to the playing field. The iconic piece of memorabilia just looks cool and can be a great meeting place for friends. Also, make sure to take some time to view the plaques about the school’s athletic history located in the stadium concourse. Final Thoughts McDaniel College is a great place to watch a game, tailgate with some friends, and soak in some local athletic history, all in the same great location.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 London Major Appliances Rink @ Western Fair Sports Centre 865 Florence St, London, ON N5W 6G6 London Nationals website Western Fair Sports Centre website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity : 1,500 __________________________________________________________________________________ Back on Track With the 2025 season, the London Nationals of the Greater Ontario Hockey League presented a bit of an identity refresh.  The Nationals were founded in 1950 as part of the Big 10 Western Division.  They played in Ontario Arena on the grounds of Western Fair.  The Nationals began as the London Lou Ball Juniors, named after the sponsor, Lou Ball Clothes.  In 1961, the team was renamed the Nationals after the railway company CN Rail.  In 1963, the team became one of the junior affiliates of the Toronto Maple Leafs.  This version of the Nationals would end up becoming the modern-day London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League.  With the Knights moving to the Junior A level, the Junior B Nationals moved to Ingersoll for a year.  They returned to London and played under a number of different monikers until returning to the Nationals name in 1991.  During the majority of this time, the Nationals used the familiar logo of the Toronto Maple Leafs with the famous blue and white.  As of 2025, the Nationals have retired the maple leaf in favour of a train-themed logo and red and black, a nod to their CN rail ties, which were the origin of their name.  The Nationals are currently owned by Dean and Brenda Pomerleau. The Nationals left Western Fair and Ontario Arena in 1963.  After playing in the London Gardens and a few other spots, the Nationals returned to Western Fair in 2006.  Western Fair District Sports Centre was built in 2001 and includes 4 ice surfaces.  The Sports Centre is part of a rethinking of the Western Fair District to act more as a physical area for year-round activities rather than the location of the annual 9-day Western Fair.  The main rink is sponsored by London Major Appliances Service and is Olympic-sized with a capacity of 1,500. Food & Beverage 4 The main lobby of the Western Fair Sports Centre, connecting the four ice pads, is where the main concession stand is found.  Pizza Pizza is prominent, and a variety of pizza slices, as well as chicken and fries, are available.  Other traditional concession options are also available, including hot dogs, burgers, wraps, popcorn, candy, and chocolate.  Coca-Cola products are available, as well as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and slushies.  Beer is also available at this stand.  Also in this area is Deke’s, a full-service bar and restaurant, a unique feature for a GOHL venue. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of the Western Fair Sports Centre is nondescript but not unattractive.  Light trim with brown brick gives the main entrance the look of a Pro Hockey Life store.  Large windows allow natural light into the atrium on entry, and the new Nationals logo is displayed prominently over one of the windows.  Entry into the Sports Centre brings fans right to the doors of the London Major Appliances Rink and the pro shop.  This is not where fans will enter the arena, as they are required to head up the ramp to the main lobby, central to all four ice pads. The lobby does not offer much in the way of interesting artifacts or anything, but it is bright and clean.  The ticket table and ticket takers are at the entrance to the London Major Appliances Rink, where fans can enter the arena.  The ice surface is east-west oriented, with the best spot for a centre ice logo picture from the north.  As of this writing, the logo at centre ice was still the Maple Leaf.  Entry to the rink is at the southwest corner, behind the seating.   The Nationals hang retired number banners for Tom Cardiff, Patrick Dobie, Taylor Edwards, Scott Lombardi, Max Vingradov, and Aaron Dartch.  Championship banners hang on the northwest side with the 2013 Sutherland Cup Championship as the highlight.  Also of note is the large Drew Doughty banner hanging on the southeast corner wall, acknowledging Doughty coming up through the London Jr Knights program.  The seating in the London Major Appliances Rink is a horseshoe with the east wall open.  This limits the ability for a 360-degree travel on the walkway behind the seats.  Seating consists of 7 rows of plastic, blue arena seats. The gameday production at a London Nationals is not uncommon for the GOHL.  Promotions include the 50/50 draw and a minor hockey game during intermission.  The mascot, Lou the Bear, takes part in the pregame ceremonies.  Lou is a nod to the original name of the Nationals, the London Lou Ball Juniors.  Truck horns blare after a Nationals goal, which may be a bit startling after the first one.  Although the speaker system is decent, it can be difficult to understand announcements at times. Neighbourhood 4 The Sports Centre is located on the grounds of Western Fair District in the Old East Village neighbourhood of London.  The north end of Western Fair is Dundas Street which has a number of options for food and drink.  These include Momo’s, Lana’s Place, Byrne Eats, Edgar & Joe’s, Willie’s Cafe, London Burgers and Powerhouse Brewing Co.  Match Eatery and Public House located in the casino is a good choice.  Western Fair District has other entertainment options including the Raceway @ Western Fair, Western Fair Market and Gateway Casino.  Other options in the area include the London Children’s Museum and Royal Canadian Regiment Museum.  There are also plenty of sporting options in London.  The London Knights  of the OHL are the crown jewel of the city.  Western University fields a full complement of athletic teams that are always very competitive, most notably Western Mustangs football , hockey  and basketball .  The London Lightning play in the Basketball Super League and London Majors  play in the IBL at historic Labatt Memorial Park.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Hard Rock Hotel, Residence Inn and Double Tree are all good options that are close. Fans 3 In the 2024-25 season the London Nationals averaged almost 390 fans per game.  This ranked them 14th in the 23 team GOHL.  This is a decent showing, however there is plenty of room for improvement.  The game that was reviewed, which was the 2025-26 home opener, had 443 fans in attendance.  Fans are knowledgeable and into the game and although not over the top are solid hockey fans.   Access 4 The Western Fair Sports Centre is located on the grounds of Western Fair District in the Old East Village neighbourhood of London.  It is 7km north of Highway 401, so fans will have to do a bit of driving through London to get there.  The main roads that run north from the highway are large and traffic should not be an issue.  There is plenty of parking on site.  For fans who wish to take public transit, there are London Transit stops at Western Fair.  Fans should consult the London Transit  website for fares, maps and schedules.  Getting around the Sports Centre is not difficult.  There are ramps that go from the main entry up to the lobby between the four ice pads.  The lack of 360 degree movement around the ice is unfortunate.  Cash or cards are welcome for ticket and concession purchases.  The washroom facilities are good for this venue. Return on Investment 4 London Nationals tickets are $13 for General Admission adults.  For full service club seats it is $20.  Tickets are available online, which is not too common for the GOHL.  Club seating is a unique feature to the GOJHL which offers food and drink delivered directly to the seat and orders taken by servers at the seat as well.  There does not appear to be any discount for students or children.  Parking is free on site and concession prices are okay.  The arena is comfortable and the product on the ice is solid.  Overall, there is a strong ROI for Nationals hockey. Extras 4 An extra mark for the Western Fair District, which is a great, unique area for GOJHL hockey. An extra mark for Western Fair Sports Centre as a community hub. An extra mark for the long history of the London Nationals. An extra mark for the very unique Club seating for the London Nationals. Final Thoughts With the rebrand of the London Nationals complete and the season in full swing it is clear that the Nationals offer a solid product.  The Western Fair Sports Centre is a clean and comfortable venue that is a good home for Junior B hockey.  With the Nationals back on track, hockey fans should take in a game at Western Fair. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Segra Park 1640 Freed St. Columbia, SC 29201 Columbia Fireflies website Segra Park website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 9,077 Segra Park – Columbia Fireflies Professional baseball would make a return to the South Carolina capital in 2016 when the Savannah Sand Gnats would leave coastal Georgia for a newly built stadium in Columbia. The city had gone without professional baseball for over a decade following the relocation of the Capital City Bombers to Greenville. Initially, the South Atlantic League Class A affiliate of the New York Mets , the Columbia Fireflies garnered national attention when former University of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow began his professional baseball career with the Fireflies. Tebow’s presence in Columbia went a long way in boosting the attendance numbers in 2017. The 2021 restructuring of minor league baseball saw changes for the Fireflies – not only did their affiliation change from the Mets to the Kansas City Royals , but they also moved from the South Atlantic League to the Carolina League but would remain a Class A affiliate. Despite the change in leagues and affiliates, the Fireflies have done well in drawing fans and putting on an entertaining game experience since their inception in 2016 through today. Food & Beverage 4 Concession stands at Segra Park are what would be expected at most typical sports venues; hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, pretzels, fries, and candy are all abundantly available. The pimento cheese sandwich, or adding the southern classic to a hamburger, does add a bit of a local touch to the concessions menu. In addition, each home stand does feature a specialty hot dog related to the visiting team. While the traditional concession stands provide just about all fans might want when it comes to food, the real gems are in the carts around the concourse – the food carts serve up fried snacks, Philly-style steak, barbecue, burritos, and even healthy options by way of salads, wraps, and hummus plates. Segra Park does offer a full line of Pepsi products, as well as Gatorade. Fans looking to grab adult beverages for an outing to the ballpark have Coors and Bud products to choose from, local craft brewer River Rat Brewery, and a handful of other regional craft and craft-type beers. Wine, seltzers, hard ciders, and mixed drinks are also available at several locations around the ballpark. Concession prices on the whole are not astronomically priced; specialty items that are found at the food carts do come at more of a premium price, but nothing costs more than the $15 beef brisket plate. The key to finding the best food available is to not limit yourself to the traditional concession stands. Though there are pimento cheese options there, the real treasures are in the carts around the concourse. Atmosphere 4 The gathering of Palmetto trees and multi-tiered stairs guide fans to the stadium's main entry point and give off a warm feel of southern hospitality. The front of the stadium is very welcoming, and the combination of brick and large arched windows, combined with the iron gates, is a nice mix of classic and modern stadium design. Fans have a full, uninterrupted 360-degree concourse to navigate around the stadium. The open concourse provides views of the action on the field no matter if fans run to grab a bite to eat, need a trip to the restroom, or just want to get up and walk the stadium for an inning or two. Segra Park’s outfield wall itself plays into the excitement of the game – at just 319’ left field can be a home run haven, but is made more challenging with a high wall. The height drops down 7 to 8 feet in places, making home run-saving catches a real possibility. The angles and outcrops can also create unpredictable carroms. In dead center field, the wall steeply angles up and back on both sides, making the area ripe for triples. The Fireflies in-game entertainment team does an excellent job engaging fans throughout the evening with their use of sound effects as a sort of commentary on the game. They are also tuned in to what sound effects fans are responding to and use those as long as they are getting a response. Though some clever sound effects can quickly become annoying through repeated use, the Fireflies have found a nice balance in not overusing something to the point it becomes stale. Mid-inning contests see some new takes on old favorites like the dizzy bat race, now using impaired vision goggles, but pieces like the air guitar contest, flex cam, and guess the attendance are common at many parks around the country. Segra Park’s traditional seating area is relatively small compared to most stadiums its size; fold-down seats run twenty rows deep from the cut of the outfield grass on the third baseline, to midway up the right field line. What is lost in the typical stadium seating is more than made up for in specialty areas that are comprised of mostly social group seating. For example, high-top tables with high-backed barstools and shorter outdoor dining-style tables make up the Bullpen Boxes down the left field line, while the right field line has several picnic-style tables in the Picnic Pavilion. There are two separate areas of berm seating, one in left-center and a second in right field, that combine a grass embankment with an area of amphitheater-style tiers. Berm seats are always going to provide excellent value and, given the low prices, you do not feel you are missing out on the experience of the game if you decide to venture out and explore the stadium a bit. Given the affordability of ticket prices though, upgrading to any of the seats from dugout to dugout will only set you back anywhere from $13 to $15 max, so these seats are terrific options, also. Neighborhood 4 Segra Park was built on the grounds of the former South Carolina State Hospital. Opened in 1828, a handful of the historic buildings on the grounds have been preserved and repurposed into office spaces, businesses, and residences. The centerpiece, the Babcock Building, served as a mental health hospital from as early as 1885 through the early 1990s, but today has been converted to apartments. Along with the historical buildings that have remained, new construction has also started to pop up around the stadium from local, regional, and national businesses – familiar names such as REI and Starbucks have opened stores. In addition, Iron Hill Brewery and Mexican fusion restaurant Publico, which are just steps from the front gates of Segra Park, add to the culinary and beer options in the district. Even though it has taken some time to get to where it is today, the BullStreet District has been beautifully developed into an area that can easily attract fans to enjoy it long before the game’s first pitch. If in Columbia for an early season game, a visit to Founders Park for the often nationally ranked University of South Carolina Gamecocks could be planned, or summer trips could be paired with the Lexington County Blowfish of the Coastal Plains League. Fans 4 The Fireflies' first two seasons were a bit of an anomaly when it comes to analyzing attendance numbers; the return of baseball and a new park after such a long absence, plus a season with Tim Tebow significantly boosted attendance numbers. Today, average attendance sits at just over 3,000 fans per game, putting Columbia in the middle of the pack for Carolina League teams. Fans in Columbia do a fantastic job staying involved with both the action on the field and with the stadium entertainment team, which engages them with several call-and-respond prompts throughout the game. Access 4 Columbia is located at the junction of several interstate highways; I-20, I-26, and I-77 all feed directly into the city, and I-95 is not much of a side trip away either. This all makes Segra Park an excellent part of a baseball road trip, with its accessibility to major highways. The parking deck on nearby Freed Street provides parking for just $7. Alternatively, those showing up early enough might be able to grab one of the spots on the streets surrounding the ballpark, but the parking lots of residents and businesses in the area are not open. Any of the parking options at Segra Park will leave fans with only a short walk to the stadium. Lines to get into the stadium can be a bit long for Friday and Saturday night games, but after the initial rush when gates open, there is not much of a wait. Once in the stadium, the concourse is generously wide, especially once leaving the cover of the grandstand. There is plenty of space for fans to move about, so there does not tend to be much trouble getting around the stadium or to the seats. Return on Investment 5 You would be hard-pressed to find better ticket prices in Minor League Baseball than those offered at Segra Park – it is not just the price, but how close to the action on the field you can get for what you are paying. Ticket prices do increase by $2 the day of the game, so plan to avoid the dreaded day-of price hike. You will still pay the extra $2 for each ticket by way of a service fee if ordering tickets online, so there is no avoiding the price hike unless possibly buy tickets through the box office ahead of time. With some free parking and reasonable rates for the parking garage, to go along with affordable concession prices, fans are getting their money's worth at Segra Park. For those in the Columbia area, the Neighborhood Pass allows unlimited games for $25 per month. This might be a good way to get the most out of your baseball dollar if looking to attend several games in a month. Extras 4 The Fireflies do a fantastic job recognizing the history of baseball in Columbia. The club level and outfield concourse features photos and information on Columbia’s minor league teams and the stars who have passed through on their way to major league stardom and Hall of Fame status. Columbia was one of the first teams in minor league baseball to use neon as one of their primary colors. The glow of the team’s neon green with its navy blue and gray accents is a nice combination that does not leave the feeling of slow-pitch softball uniforms. Segra Park has a 1/3-mile walking/running loop which is open to the public daily from 7 a.m. until dark, unless there are ticketed events or baseball games, in which case the loop closes 3-4 hours beforehand. The BullStreet District goes a long way in creating more of a game day feel to the area, which will continue to improve as the district fills out. Final Thoughts The Columbia Fireflies have done a wonderful job building an experience that offers fans what they want from a stadium; those wanting a more traditional baseball game have plenty of seats to choose from in the grandstand, whereas fans wanting to use the game as more of a social backdrop to their evening have both a considerable number of field level table boxes or the Bowtie Bar in center field. Segra Park is a beautiful facility that provides multiple experiences for what fans might want out of their visit to the ballpark. In addition, the BullStreet District that continues to grow around the stadium just adds to what Segra Park has to offer.

BBQ Beef Sandwich, Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers If you’re catching a game at Dodger Stadium this week, bring your appetite; the Dodgers and Levy, their longtime food and beverage partner, are serving up a new postseason menu as big as October baseball. For the Wild Card Series against the Cincinnati Reds, fans can dig into a fresh lineup of daring creations designed to match the high-stakes atmosphere on the field. Leading off the order is the Pistachio Cream Funnel Cake, a sweet twist to balance the heavy hitters that follow. The new Big Crunch taco lineup—featuring the Big Crunch, Double Big Crunch, and the fiery Flamin’ Big Crunch—puts a ballpark spin on a classic. The Flamin’ Big Crunch is a 10-inch hard shell beef taco packed with cheese sauce and pickled jalapeños, topped off with a crunchy layer of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Big Crunch taco lineup, Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers Barbecue lovers can head to Think Blue BBQ in Left Field Plaza, where the Mega BBQ Platter promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Loaded with jalapeño cheddar sausage, smoky pork, al pastor spareribs, and crispy chicharrón, it’s built for fans with a big appetite. The Chick-e-chirri Sandwich, a showstopper featuring cornflake-crusted fried chicken, Chimichurri, Tajín aioli, smashed avocado, cucumber salad, and arugula, all tucked into a Dodger logo-branded bun. You’ll find it at Elysian Park Grill (Field Level Section 23, Top Deck Section 4). For a more traditional bite, there’s the new BBQ Beef Sandwich, while those looking to pair the action with a drink can try the Agua Chile Beer Bucket, available at Hornitos Cantina (Right Field Plaza), Craft Corner (Loge Section 165), and Jinro (Reserve Section 5). With flavors ranging from fiery to sweet, Dodger Stadium’s playoff menu gives fans another reason to cheer—no matter what the scoreboard says. Pistachio Cream Funnel Cake , Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 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

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Carroll Indoor Sports Center 515 Old Westminster Pike Westminster, MD 21157 Maryland Storm website Carroll Indoor Sports Center website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 200 Note: The DMV Gunners changed ownership and rebranded as the Maryland Storm in 2025. We expect our review experience to be unchanged. Home of the Gunners The DMV Gunners are a semi-professional soccer team based in Westminster, Maryland. The team is a Major Arena Soccer League 3 (MASL 3) member. MASL3 is a North American indoor soccer league that serves as the developmental league of the Major Arena Soccer League and MASL2. The league started in 2020. Major Arena Soccer League started in 2008 and Major Arena Soccer League 2 started in 2017. The Gunners play their home games at Carroll Indoor Sports Center. The venue is in its 30th season of indoor soccer. There are three soccer/lacrosse fields and one basketball/volleyball court. Food & Beverage 3 There is a simple concession stand located in one of the Carroll Indoor Sports Center's buildings. There are many options at a fair value. It still may be a good idea to eat before a game if you want more than snack bar offerings. Atmosphere 3 This is a normal indoor recreation field that we see all over the country. It is a simple setup with very little seating. There are a couple of rows of stands near the arena glass. The team also set up folding chairs for extra fans. there will be many fans standing around as well. Neighborhood 4 Westminster, a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located nearby and is one of the best family-type restaurants around and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. We also like to stop by one of the few Roy Roger's fast food restaurants when in the area. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 3 Many of the fans are friends or families of the players. You may also see participants from the other fields stopping by to check in on the action. Access 4 Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster and stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. The parking lot at the Carroll Indoor Sports Center can get very busy with all of the youth games competing, as well as the nearby fun center. You may want to get there early as the lot can be a busy one at times. The Gunners play in the building closest to the road. There is a very small entrance to that building. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $12 ($6 for students) which is a decent value. One could say it is too high, but we think supporting an up-and-coming organization like the Gunners is worth a couple extra bucks. There are also options for season tickets which could bring the cost down even more. Extras 2 There are so many things going on at the Carroll Indoor Sports Center, that you may want to set aside some time to watch one of the other games that are going on. Players Fun Zone is the nearby amusement center that offers laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars, mini golf, and much more, so you may want to stop in there before or after a Gunners match. Final Thoughts The DMV Gunners is a simple sporting event to watch but it gives the Westminster area a nice minor league type of affair to enjoy.

Photos by Long Island Ducks and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Fairfield Properties Ballpark 3 Court House Dr Central Islip, NY 11722 Long Island Ducks website Fairfield Properties Ballpark website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 6,002 Quacker Jacks The Long Island Ducks are an independent baseball team, a part of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. They play at the family friendly Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip, NY. At one point in time, duck farming was a big industry on Long Island, thus the name of the ball team. The ballpark has been known as several names: Suffolk County Sports Park, EAB Park, Citibank Park, and now Bethpage Park. A new LED lighting system was installed in 2017 proving the organization is committed to making the ballpark up-to-date for today’s fan’s desires and needs. Additional improvements in 2017 included replacement of the playing surface, replacement of the carpeting in the suites and restaurant, improved touchless lavatories, and a brand new craft beer called “Duck Tail Ale.” The Long Island Ducks are the Atlantic League Champions for the 2004, 2012, 2013 (runners up in the various other seasons). Note: The stadium name changed to Fairfield Properties Ballpark in 2020. Food & Beverage 5 The food at Bethpage Ballpark is more than what you would expect at a high-level independent league venue. Standard fare of nachos, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, chicken sandwich, and fries run $5 – $8. Churros, pizza, Italian sausage and pulled pork sandwiches price between $5 and $9. Mister Softee provides the ice cream. One concession area offers heros and wraps. On the healthier side, full Caesar, Cobb, and garden salads cost $8 each. Fruit and cheese, crudité, or a small side salad run $4. Unusual food choices at the ballpark include a peanut butter and jelly platter, hard boiled eggs, celery and peanut butter, and a peanut butter platter priced between $3 and $6. An abundant choice of beer is available for $7 – $8 including local Long Island beers from Great South Bay Brewery and Brooklyn Brewery. Bud/Bud Light, Sam Adams and others are also on offer. Wines choices run $7. Pepsi products are the soda choice and are priced at $4. Open to all fans, the Duck Club, a restaurant and bar is located on the club level of the venue with some seats allowing fans to eat, drink and watch the game. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the park. The cleverly named Waddle In Shop provides a vast amount of LI Ducks merchandise and souvenirs. Atmosphere 4 The Long Island Ducks provide an enjoyable family friendly entertainment environment, one that fans of all ages will enjoy. Seating includes two sections of long rows (20 seats), green fold-down stadium chairs with cup holders and decent legroom separated by a narrow walkway on the lower level. Twenty luxury seats are available on the club level from the third to first baseline. A net is only around the home plate area; the dugouts are net free! Lots of foul balls enter the seating area so be on the lookout when walking the concourse while play is in action Between inning and other activities include the usual minor league shenanigans like sumo wrestling, musical chairs, 50/50 contest, etc. The music volume is perfect; not too loud. One can have a conversation with their neighbor without having to yell over the music. The starting line up is posted on a whiteboard placed on concourse. The stadium offers a constant view of the game action, so even when fans are enjoying the festivities down the foul lines or grabbing a hot dog, they can still see the game in full. One cannot walk the entire circumference of the concourse. Kids bounce houses and activities are at the end of both the first and third baselines. The scoreboard provides the line score as well as video content. Bethpage Park has an attractive, lush green field. Be sure to check out some Long Island Ducks history on the walls when going up to the Duck Club. Like many of the other Atlantic League ballparks, the framework is very geared towards family entertainment. Neighborhood 3 Bethpage Park is located in the Suffolk County District Court Office complex with residential areas beyond that. A TGI Fridays and Carrabba’s are within walking distance. The best bet, though, is to try any of Long Island’s delicious pizzaria’s like Vinardo’s Pizzeria & Restaurant just a short drive away. Be sure to visit Great South Bay Brewing and Tasting Room (a sponsor of the LI Ducks), about five miles from the ballpark. The Duck’s home field is only two or so miles from the Long Island’s south shore beaches and Heckscher State Park. Bayard Cutting Arboretum is one of Islip’s top tourist attractions and is well worth a visit. Other professional sports on Long Island (though not necessarily close to Bethpage Park) are the New York Lizards (MLL), Long Island Rough Riders (USL), and the New York Islanders (NHL). For those wanting to spend the night close to the venue, a Courtyard Marriott and a Residence Inn are right across the street from the ballpark. Fans 4 Lots of families attend Ducks games. At the game of this review, not a lot of fans were there (frigid temperatures) but those that were there were quite hardy. The Long Island Ducks generally sit in first or second place in attendance for the Atlantic League averaging greater than 5,000 a game the last few seasons. They have a deep understanding of the game being close neighbors of the NY Mets and the NY Yankees. Access 4 The ballpark is located off the Southern State Parkway, though there are a variety of highways and routes to get there based on starting point. Click here for specific directions. The LIRR (Long Island Railroad) does not have a stop within walking distance to the park. The closest station is Central Islip on the Ronkonkoma Line, about 2.5 miles from the park. Long Island MacArthur Airport is an 8 – 9 mile drive. Parking is in a well-ordered semi-covered parking lot. If attendance is low, traffic in and out is very light. Even if it’s a packed house, worse traffic can be found in the shopping centers on Long Island. Traffic disperses in several directions so it moves out well. Parking is always free; playoff games too. The concourse is open and wide and easily traversed. Plenty of handicapped parking and seating are available. Return on Investment 5 A fan’s sports entertainment dollar is well spent at a Ducks game. Individual ticket prices range from $12 – $15. The Duck’s have various promotional days such as Military Mondays, Two-fer Tuesdays, Waddle In Wednesdays, and Thirsty Thursdays where tickets prices or concessions are reduced. They also offer offer ‘Unused Ticket Days’ where if you couldn’t make it to a game but still have your ticket, you can exchange it for select games towards the end of the season. Concession prices are affordable and parking is free. Extras 5 The Duck’s organization has many additional points of note to mention. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful – in person and over the phone. Co-owner and first Ducks’ manager, Bud Harrelson, can often be seen on the concourse autographing baseballs and other souvenirs. Harrelson, a former Mets shortstop and coach has won championships as a player (‘69 Mets World Series; ‘73 Mets NL Championship), a coach (‘86 Mets World Series), and owner (‘04, ‘12, and ‘13 Ducks Atlantic League Championship). Plenty of promotions are offered: Sundays – kids run the bases and a pregame player autograph session is available. All Saturday home games provide fireworks after the last out. Modernizing and updating the venue to meet today’s baseball fans standards deserves extra credit. A fan can listen to all Ducks games online – no fee. Final Thoughts Summer on Long Island can be a lot of fun with the beaches, piers, and boating. When on Long Island, be sure to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying a laid back, entertaining nine innings with friends and family at Bethpage Park.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Harvard Stadium 95 N Harvard St Boston, MA 02134 Harvard Crimson football website Harvard Stadium website Year Opened: 1903 Capacity: 30,323 Harvard’s Yard   Built in 1903, Harvard Stadium was the nation’s first stadium built for college football. Containing architectural elements of a Greek stadium and Roman circus, it is considered an engineering marvel, as it was the world’s first massive reinforced concrete structure. Harvard Stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is one of just four athletic arenas to be so designated. A  gift from Harvard's Class of 1879 for their 25th anniversary, Harvard Stadium only took 4 months to build at a cost of $310,000.   The physical layout of Harvard Stadium is quite significant to the way football is played today. When college football's rules committee met to discuss ways to make the game less violent and dangerous in 1906, one of the rules changes considered was widening the field by 40 feet. Since widening Harvard Stadium was an impossibility, and the committee felt that losing the prestigious Harvard team would be a death-knell to the fledgling sport, the committee decided to adopt the forward pass instead.   Over the years, Harvard Stadium has been more than just a home to Crimson football. The stadium was home to Harvard hockey until World War I. The New England Patriots called Harvard Stadium home in 1970 and 1971, as did the Boston Cannons lacrosse team in 2007. The trials for the US Olympic Track and Field team were held here in 1912, 1920, 1924, and 1928. Several soccer games for the 1984 Olympics were held at Harvard Stadium. Artists as diverse as Bob Marley, Miles Davis, Ray Charles, Mountain and James Taylor have performed here. Janis Joplin performed her last show here before she died in 1970.   Harvard first sponsored a football team in 1873 and was one of college football’s dominant teams in the early years of the sport, as the Crimson won twelve national championships between 1873 and 1920. Today, Harvard still ranks in the top ten in all-time wins in college football. Over their history, Harvard has won 19 Ivy League titles and has had 21 alumni enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. 39 Crimson alumni have played in the National Football League.   Food & Beverage 5   When they were building Harvard Stadium around the turn of the century (and I’m talking about the 20 th century here), it’s doubtful that concessions were considered in any part of the planning process. In the stadium proper, there are a few small concession stands tucked into tight spaces underneath the grandstand. Fans can get some basic snacks here, including hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, and snack items.   To experience the best concessions experience at a Harvard football game, check out one of the many food trucks parked near the entrance to the stadium by the Gordon Indoor Track Building. Here, fans will find a good variety of food served up by local favorites such as The Sausage Guy, Rockin’ Burgers, Trolley Dogs, and Berry Sweets. In addition to food from these Boston legends, fans can pick up chicken tenders, ice cream, fried Oreos, and more at the many portable stands set up here.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Harvard Stadium. Fans looking for an adult beverage will find several stands selling a selection of wine and beers, featuring several varieties from local favorite Sam Adams.   Atmosphere 5   Fans going to the century old Harvard Stadium expecting to experience a truly old-school game day presentation will undoubtedly be disappointed that the experience here is pretty similar to what you’ll find at every other football game across the country. While there are plenty of traditions that are honored, if you close your eyes, you could be almost anywhere, given the noise and shenanigans going on here on the banks of the Charles River.   There are a lot of modern touches in this old place. The new sound system is excellent, and the volume is turned way up. The Crimson uses a pair of on-field hosts who aren’t afraid to scream into their microphones. They lead the in-game shenanigans, and surprisingly, a lot is going on when the play is stopped. Promos happen all game long, including videos on the board on the Murr Center roof. Cheerleaders do pushups in the end zone after Crimson scores and throw t-shirts into the stands. The Harvard band plays throughout the game, and game stats are displayed on ribbon boards mounted on the façade of the Murr Center. It’s a sensory overload you wouldn’t expect at stuffy old Harvard University.   Much like the Ivy that grows on the façade of the Murr Center, reminders of Harvard’s decades of football history are all around you. The Dillon Quad is open before the game for food, beverages, games, and of course, merchandise. Players walk Dillon Quad into the stadium pre-game and enter the field through the closed end of the field to “Ten Thousand Men of Harvard” performed by the band. In a facility like this, you just can’t help but feel the history, no matter how many modern touches may soften the stadium’s concrete seats.   Neighborhood 4   Before or after a game at Harvard Stadium, take a walk across the Anderson Memorial Bridge, which spans the Charles River, and explore Harvard Square, a top Boston tourist destination. While Harvard Square may not be the bohemian center it once was, it still is one of the most popular areas in Boston for walking, shopping, and people watching.   For those wishing to bask in the history, architecture, and aura of Harvard, walking tours of the campus occur regularly. While touring the campus, take a picture in front of the statue of John Harvard, as so many others have done. Just remember these three things about the statue: 1) it is not actually a statue of John Harvard (no image of him exists), but of a random student; 2) John Harvard was not the founder of the college, but its first benefactor; and 3) the college was actually founded in 1636, not in 1638, as the statue claims. But remember to rub his shiny shoe, it is rumored to bring good luck.   For the longest time, there wasn’t a whole lot to do in the area right around the stadium on the Allston side of the Charles River. That is changing, as the area has seen a fair bit of development. Now, eateries including Sloane’s and FiDO Pizza, within walking distance of the Stadium, provide visiting fans with some options. Of course, downtown Boston is just a couple of miles away, should you want to explore one of the great cities in the country.   Fans 4   Harvard averages between 10,000 and 11,000 fans per game every year, a figure that ranks them in the top twenty FCS schools in attendance annually. During the years when Harvard hosts “The Game” versus Yale, this figure increases accordingly. Unfortunately, even a large crowd of 20,000 leaves a lot of space in this gigantic concrete hulk of a stadium.   You’ll find a cross-section of Boston sports fandom at Harvard Stadium, from assorted alumni who have been coming to games since they were in school to townies and other casual sports fans. There’s also a really good turnout from the student body on any given Saturday. With the compact footprint of the Ivy League, expect a decent turnout from visiting fans as well.   The size of the crowd you will see at Harvard Stadium will depend greatly on the opponent. Traditionally, if you are there for the biannual edition of “The Game” against Yale, expect a sold-out stadium and one of the legendary college football experiences in the nation. If Harvard is hosting Ivy League rival Princeton or neighbor Brown, expect a crowd in the neighborhood of 15,000 fans. Otherwise, you’ll see around 6,000-8,000 fans per game at a Crimson game – attendance figures most schools would die for.   Access 3   While Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, Harvard Stadium is located across the Charles River, in the Allston section of Boston. Also located here are most of Harvard’s other athletic facilities, including Lavietes Pavilion, Bright-Landry Hockey Center, O’Donnell Field, and Jordan Field.   Anyone who has ever tried to drive the crowded, crooked streets of Greater Boston can tell you that you are better off leaving your car at home and taking public transportation. The same is true for getting to Harvard Stadium. Stadium Journey’s 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 buses stop directly in front of the athletic complex. For more information, fares, and schedules, check out the MBTA website .   If you do insist on driving to Harvard Stadium, the most direct route is to take Storrow Drive to North Harvard Street. Parking is available throughout the Athletic Complex. Cars are jammed into seemingly every available space in the complex. Tailgating is only allowed in certain areas, so reserve your spots and arrive early.   Harvard Stadium is an enormous concrete horseshoe. Fans will enter the stadium underneath the grandstand into an open concourse, where concession stands and restrooms can be found. Just keep in mind that the facility is over a century old and does look it in some spots, so fans should tread carefully.   Stairs lead up to the seating bowl, emptying about a quarter of the way up the grandstand. All of the seats here are concrete bleachers, so bring some padding to protect your backside. Fans requiring handicapped seating can access the accessible seating area via a ramp located on the open (north) end of the horseshoe. All seats feature excellent views of the action.   Return on Investment 2   Tickets to Harvard football games are sold for $25, with youth and seniors discounted to $20. Certain premium games (selected conference games) have premium ticket prices - $31. If you are looking for tickets for “The Game,” the biannual game against Yale, expect to pay significantly more (and be sure to get your tickets well in advance). Parking in the many lots located throughout the athletic complex will run you $20. Again, it is highly recommended that you purchase in advance.   Concessions, while not exorbitantly so, feel like they are a bit on the high side for this level of football. Everything is just a little more expensive at Harvard.   Extras 4   Banners commemorating Harvard’s national and Ivy League championships are located on the façade of the stadium’s interior at field level.   The Harvard band’s big bass drum measures 8 feet across and is large enough to warrant its own name – Bertha. It is the largest playable natural skin-based drum in the world. In the past, the drum has been stolen by rival bands from Yale and Brown, and its giant drumstick was stolen during a game in 1963 by students from Columbia. The field at Harvard Stadium has been dedicated in honor of Tim Murphy, who was the Crimson’s head football coach from 1994 to 2023. He retired as the all-time winningest coach in Harvard and Ivy League history, with 200 wins.   An extra point is awarded for Harvard Stadium itself, one of four stadiums in the nation to be designated as a National Historic Landmark.   Final Thoughts   These days, many things that are simply “old” are designated as “historic.” In the case of Harvard Stadium, while the facility is certainly the former, it is definitely the latter. A game at Harvard is a juxtaposition of traditional and modern touches, where modern gameday shenanigans meet old-timey stodginess. No matter which approach you prefer, a visit to the banks of the Charles River should be on the bucket list for any serious college football fan.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Paladin Stadium 1300 Duncan Chapel Rd Greenville, SC 29613 Greenville Triumph website Paladin Stadium website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 16,000 Together We Triumph Paladin Stadium, home to Furman football  and women’s lacrosse, has also hosted Greenville Triumph SC since 2022. The Triumph began play in 2019 as one of the original ten members of USL League One, the third tier of the U.S. soccer pyramid. They were Greenville’s first professional soccer team since the early 2000s, when the Greenville Lions competed in USL-2, a now-defunct professional league unrelated to the current USL League Two, at Sirrine Stadium. For their first three seasons, the Triumph played at Legacy Early College, where temporary bleachers surrounded the school’s pitch. While modest, the venue witnessed the club’s most successful stretch to date, with three consecutive trips to the League One finals, as well as a championship in 2020. In 2022, the club moved into the larger Paladin Stadium on Furman’s campus. The move also gave the organization room to add a women’s side, the Greenville Liberty, who compete in the USL W League. Paladin has served the Triumph well, but it was never intended as a permanent home. That will come in 2026, when the club opens a new 10,000-seat soccer-specific stadium in nearby Mauldin, part of the Bridgeway Station development.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at Paladin Stadium are run in-house, and while the menu is not extensive, it covers the essentials. Burgers, brats, hot dogs, and nachos with cheese sauce are the staples, with a shaved ice stand adding a refreshing option on warm afternoons. Candy and other quick snacks round things out, which families especially will appreciate. It is not a lineup that will wow foodies – a food truck or two would go a long way toward adding variety, but what is here does the job. Drinks include Pepsi products, Gatorade, Aquafina, and lemonade, along with domestic beer, a few craft selections from Asheville’s Wicked Weed Brewing, and seltzers. Prices stay reasonable, keeping the overall match day experience accessible for families.   Atmosphere   3 The Triumph currently plays at Paladin Stadium  on Furman University’s campus. The stadium’s brickwork and hedges give it the feel of a traditional southern football ground, while the spire of Daniel Chapel and Paris Mountain in the distance provide a quaint setting for matches. Still, Paladin Stadium is clearly a football-first facility. Yard lines, lacrosse markings, goal posts, and Furman’s purple-and-white branding clash with the Triumph’s green and blue, leaving the pitch a bit busy for soccer. The in-stadium experience stays lively, however. An in-game host pumps up fans at kickoff, and the fan engagement team leads chants of “Greenville…Triumph” at certain points during the match. Beyond the club’s efforts, much of the stadium’s soccer atmosphere comes from Greenville’s independent supporters, the Reedy River Riot, who drive energy and passion throughout the stands. Soccer’s nonstop pace keeps fans engaged, leaving little need for additional promotions. The club still works in ad reads during throw-ins, and halftime features performances from local groups, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience. Fans have several seating options depending on how close they want to be to the action. General admission provides bleacher seating, with the option to sit near the supporters’ section for full immersion in the chants and energy. Sideline and sideline-preferred seats bring spectators closer to the benches, where they can feel the intensity of the players and coaches, while Center Circle seating at midfield offers molded chairs for a more comfortable view, and the FieldClub provides the premium experience, pairing padded seats with all-inclusive food and drinks in a reserved area behind the goal.   Neighborhood   3 Paladin Stadium sits on Greenville’s northern edge, where the city’s suburbs begin to fade into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The setting gives the campus a sense of space and scenery that feels a bit removed from downtown Greenville. Furman’s campus covers a sprawling 750 acres. Beyond the academic, residential, and athletic facilities, Swan Lake, a walking trail around it, and even a golf course open to the public are all within the campus’s confines. Miles of biking trails also run adjacent to campus. If approaching Furman from the back side of campus, Highway 25 is dotted with food trucks serving various types of Latino food, while the approach from Highway 276 has chain restaurants. Downtown Greenville is just over six miles south, and it has become one of the most celebrated small cities in the country. The walkable core is packed with breweries, high-end restaurants, hotels, and public art, anchored by the popular Falls Park on Reedy River. For fans making a weekend of it, there’s no shortage of options – early-season matches can be paired with a Greenville Drive  game at nearby Fluor Field, while later in the year the Greenville Swamp Rabbits ’ hockey schedule offers another sporting option.   Fans   3 Greenville draws roughly 1,800 fans per match, placing the Triumph in the lower half of League One’s attendance. With Paladin Stadium right on Furman University’s campus, it is a little surprising that more students do not make it out to games. Even so, the Reedy River Riot  helps bring passion to the stands, pounding their drums, leading chants, and leaning into the visiting side (and officials) throughout the match. Fans may be smaller in number, but they stay engaged, celebrating goals with cheers and the clatter of cowbells, or collectively gasping at shots on frame. Attendance dips a bit for midweek matches, but the most spirited crowds come out for rivalry games, especially the Peach States Derby against South Georgia Tormenta , or matches against nearby Charlotte Independence.   Access   3 Furman University sits north of downtown Greenville, and reaching the campus can be a bit inconvenient due to the lack of direct interstate access. US Highways 25 and 276 run along either side of campus, but even after exiting I-185, fans still face roughly 10 miles of surface streets and traffic lights before arriving at Paladin Stadium. Most GPS directions bring visitors through the rear entrance on Duncan Chapel Road, which leads directly to the orange parking lot just a short walk from the stadium; season pass holders and supporters have access to a smaller lot on the northwest side. Entry points are located at each corner of the near side of the stadium, all easily reachable from the various parking areas. For the most part, the interior of the stadium is easy to navigate; only one side of the stadium is open for seating, which keeps things simple. Fans walking along the field concourse can be a mild distraction to those in the stands, but as long as they keep moving, it is not much of an issue. The pathway from the stands to the field club can be a bit narrow where the ad boards and field-side hedges are located, while the inner concourse is a little narrow, especially where apparel tables take up space, but all in all, these do not cause significant problems moving around.   Return on Investment   5 General admission tickets typically start at $15, with weekday specials often bringing the cost below $10, easily one of the best values in League One. Parking is a flat $10 in the large lot just outside Paladin Stadium, and concessions are reasonably priced, so grabbing a soda or snack will not break the budget. Altogether, the Triumph keeps costs low enough that families and casual fans alike can enjoy a night of soccer without worrying about wallet strain.   Extras   2 Just outside the main entrance sits a customized 1961 Triumph TR3A – this two-seater convertible is painted bright lime green with navy lettering, with the Greenville Triumph’s crest sitting proudly on the hood. An adjacent display explains the car’s history and its connection to the club, making it a clever way to mark the stadium as Triumph’s home. Regardless of the result on the field, the Triumph make a point of showing appreciation for their fans – after the match, the players come toward the supporters’ section to sign autographs, take photos, and personally thank those in attendance.   Final Thoughts Match day at Paladin Stadium is a fun and lively experience, with fans clearly invested in the action; the Triumph have done a solid job creating atmosphere despite playing in a football-first venue. Much of the energy here comes from the Reedy River Riot, whose chants and drumbeats give the stands a real soccer feel. Still, playing in a college football stadium has its drawbacks: yard lines, lacrosse markings, and the scale of the stands can make the field feel a little busy, making the experience less intimate than traditional soccer grounds. The move to a soccer-specific stadium in 2026 should do nothing but bolster a fun soccer experience, while providing fans with development that provides food, shopping, and housing just steps from the stadium.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex Benedictine Dr Lisle, IL 60532 Benedictine University Eagles website Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 3,000 Eagles in the Sky Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex is home to the Benedictine University Eagles football team and is located in Lisle, Illinois. The Eagles should not be confused with the Benedictine College Ravens of Atchison, Kansas. The Eagles compete in the NCAA’s Division III; their stadium holds 3,000 fans in a single grandstand on the east side – it was built in 2005. The football stadium is surrounded by a running track, and the wider facility also includes a baseball field and softball field, so it can be used for multiple Benedictine Eagles sports.   Food & Beverage   1 Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex does have concessions, but only chips, packaged candy, bottled soda, and bottled water – they tend to run out quickly, however, and thus the concession stand may close at halftime.   Atmosphere   2 The atmosphere at Benedictine University Eagles games is okay; nothing stands out especially, but they do play fun music, and the PA announcer is a lot of fun. During my most recent visit, I noticed an issue with the speakers; there was static and fuzziness at times with the sound coming out. The band only has about 7 to 10 members. As is common with smaller schools, there are lots of visiting fans here due to how close the schools in the conferences are to each other, so the visiting team can easily travel well. As such, during my last visit, the tailgating scene at Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex especially showed a ton of purple in the parking lot, rather than the Eagles' home team red. The main issue here is that the grandstand is on the east side, meaning you will have the sun in your eyes for games that occur between noon and 6 or 7 pm; more so for mid-afternoon kickoffs. Two small areas at the top of the grandstand may provide a little relief, but not much.   Neighborhood   3 Lisle, Illinois, is located about 40 minutes west/southwest of Chicago; there is a nature museum nearby (on Benedictine’s campus) as well as a theater/IMAX. There are also plenty of restaurants and hotels nearby, a lot of them in Naperville, the next town over. There is also an antique mall in Naperville if you are interested in that sort of thing. One of the local favorites in the area is Chicago-style deep dish pizza, and if you are looking for that, go no further than Giordano's – their pizza is so good we went there twice while I was in town for the weekend. Also, try their broken cannoli, basically a deconstructed cannoli with the cream piled in the center and broken shell pieces used for dipping; a lot easier to eat than the regular version, and great for sharing. I would not recommend Gino’s East. If you aren’t feeling like pizza, I would recommend Italian beef from Buona’s, although many other restaurants in the area offer it as well, including Giordano's.   Fans   2 There are a good number of Eagles fans in attendance at Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex football games, but as mentioned above, you may see just as many visiting fans at a typical game. The home fans who are here, though, are very spirited – they follow the game, cheer at the right moments, and do not leave early.   Access   5 Getting to the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex is as easy as any sports venue you might ever go to. Located in such a small town that there is no traffic to speak of, there is also free parking right next to the football field. The concourse is shared with the baseball field next door, and there is plenty of room to move around. There are tables on the concourse for people to sit at, as well as a giant lawn chair you can sit in; this may be a good selfie opportunity. There is also an elevator if you want to go up to the second level, although it can only hold three people at a time.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets only cost $10 for football at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex, which is a little higher than some other D3 stadiums I have been to, but is by no means exorbitant. Given the sun issues and the potential for running out of concessions, this is likely not a bucket list visit; this facility may be more for those who are Benedictine alums or friends of Benedictine players, or for those whose team is playing in Lisle that weekend.   Extras   2 The elevator is a nice touch; you rarely see those at such small stadiums, and the tables and giant lawn chairs are great amenities as well. The local water tower is also decorated with the school’s colors, which is always a plus.   Final Thoughts If you are in the area and would like an inexpensive way to spend some time, or just love the game of football, seeing a game at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex may be just the ticket. Not a lot of frills, but a peaceful, no-hassle way to watch the game we all love.

Photos by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Alfred-Kunze-Sportpark Am Sportpark 2 04179 Leipzig, Germany BSG Chemie Leipzig website Alfred-Kunze Stadion website Year Opened: 1920 Capacity: 4,999 Tough, Edgy East Germany Football Choosing a stadium journey to the Alfred-Kunze Stadion to watch BSG Chemie Leipzig brings to mind CS Lewis’s description of Aslan, in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. “Safe? Of course, he isn’t safe. But he is good!” Football in East Germany retains the tough, edgy, and (occasionally) violent culture that will never leave visitors feeling fully safe. However, if you keep your phone in your pocket, restrict tourist instincts, and respect the ultras and their space, it’s really good! Men, women, and children smiling and socialising, drinking beer (and cola) give this club a safe and inclusive vibe, something BSG Chemie Leipzig is known for. Food & Beverage 3 Beer is €4.50 with a €2 deposit for your branded Cup. Coffee is €3. Cola €3.50. Food stalls, on your left-hand side as you enter, will serve you the mandatory Bratwurst for €3.50. Atmosphere 5 Built in 1920 for a reported 512,545.83 marks, this antique and addictive stadium is still going strong 105 years later. FC Victoria 06 Leutzsch were the first tenants. Club mergers, bankruptcy, and political preferences take you on a winding historical sporting journey from Victoria to the modern-day BSG Chemie Leipzig. Away fans are seated in the south stand (GasteBlock). To the right, the whitewashed and distinctive administrative ‘house’ sits confidently alongside the VIP and family area. The Norddamm is a classic two-tiered crumbling terrace with a scoreboard at the very back. On match days, the terrace becomes a living organism, home of the ‘Die Diablos’ ultra group. Pyrotechnics, tifo , and 90 minutes of chanting, led by the capo, provide a spectacular backdrop to the evening. BSG Chemie Leipzig Die Diablos Pyrotechnics, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Finally, the Dammsitz Tribune is the home of the old wooden stand with a length of terrace and seats closer to the action. The wooden grandstand is a historical item of beauty; it came from the regatta track at the Elsterflutbett and was moved to Leutzsch in 1948. Neighborhood 3 Leutzsch is an Alt-West locality of Leipzig. Aside from the football, it’s the forest that attracts hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Part of the city since 1922, Leutzsch has an industrial past; now the factories are derelict or home to galleries. There are the necessities you need, but it’s strongly recommended you stay in Leipzig, just 3.5 miles east; it's a vibrant and attractive city steeped in history. Fans 5 The stadium capacity is currently capped at 4,999 for safety reasons. In the last ten years, attendance has grown. An average of around 1,200 in 2015, increasing to regular 5k sell-outs in 2025. The record attendance was 32,000 back in 1950. The name BSG comes from Betriebssportgemeinschaft, the sports club movement in the old DDR. Each club was also linked to an industry, in BSG’s case, the chemical sector. Fans are known for their social conscience, anti-discrimination ethos, and a dislike of the commercialism that blights parts of Western European football. Their rivals are Lokomotive Leipzig. Access 3 To find The Alfred’ from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, jump on an S-Bahn (S1) to Leipzig Leutzsch. Disembark and follow the green and white procession towards the ground. Carrying (and drinking) a bottle of beer on your journey is a must. The main route into Germany will be via Berlin. (Leipzig-Halle Flughafen has limited destinations). From the capital, it’s a direct train south-west to Leipzig on the ICE train (75 minutes). Arriving this way ensures you see Leipzig Hauptbahnhof , the largest train station (by square foot) in Europe! Return on Investment 4 Match tickets cost around €20 and can be purchased online (with meaningful reductions for the unemployed, students, and certain disabilities). The ticket is easily uploaded onto your phone wallet upon online purchase (helpful, but RIP printed tickets). S-Bahnhof travel is inexpensive. A standard single ticket is about €3.50, or cheaper via the LeipzigMOVE app (worth signing up for if you are staying a few days) Add in the cheap beer and bratwurst, and this level of football (Regionalliga Nordost - tier 4) is tremendous value. It’s not plush seats with prawn sandwiches; it’s participative, social, and an assault on the senses. For BSG fans, it’s a way of life. Extras 4 The family area next to the VIP section is an excellent provision. Sand pits and toys in a fenced-off area, allowing you to enjoy the football whilst your little ones play safely. A printed programme is available. Long live the printed programme! The stadium was renamed in the 1990s after legendary champion coach Alfred Kunze. The Alfred was the first ground in Germany to introduce a ‘man high’ mesh fence between the playing surface and the fans! Final Thoughts The chemical ingredients of this trip included pyrotechnics, wurstfüllung, cement, water, hops, malt, and wheat. Stadium Journey prescribes this trip to you; it won’t make you safe, but it makes you feel good. Chemie Leipzig Celebration, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Joan C. Edwards Stadium 2001 3rd Ave Huntington, WV 25755 Marshall Thundering Herd website Joan C. Edwards Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 38,016 Here comes the Thundering Herd… ​Marshall University fans are passionate about college football. At first glance, Marshall might not seem like a school known for its loud, energetic football spirit. ​ Without context, one might mistake Marshall games for Ohio State, given the enthusiasm and cheering from the fanbase. They are among the most exciting teams to watch in the Sun Belt Conference and the Appalachian region. ​ Marshall offers everything you want from a smaller Division I school. Producing NFL legends like Randy Moss and Troy Brown, the Thundering Herd is formidable—especially at home. ​ Food & Beverage  4 ​When it comes to concessions, there’s nothing much that isn’t different compared to any other basic assortment of food and drink at another university’s stadium. But that isn’t a bad thing either. You have your typical choices of pretzels, nachos, pizza, and hot dogs. ​ If you’re the drinking type and at least the age of 21, then there are many opportunities to fetch a nice, refreshing beer like Bud Light or Miller Lite. If alcohol doesn’t suit your fancy, then there are other options like Pepsi products and the old reliable water. ​ Atmosphere  5 ​While not a ginormous stadium compared to others, Joan C. Edwards Stadium still feels there’s more in attendance than there actually is. Everyone, Thundering Herd fans and the visiting opponents, is on the edge of their seats waiting to see what play happens next. ​ It doesn’t matter if the Herd are up 20 or down 20, their fans will likely still be cheering at the top of their lungs. It’s the type of crowd and atmosphere every athletics department of any school or organization would want. ​ Neighborhood  5 ​No matter how big they are, a lot of universities in the Appalachian territory have the same vibe as backyard high school football games. Going to the game is a big event, even if someone is not a fan of the sport in general. ​ The general traffic and getting in and out of Huntington before and after the game is not particularly difficult. It may be a little slow getting back home after the game, but that’s to be expected with sports events in general. ​ Fans  5 ​What else needs to be said about the fans that hasn’t been said already? The best fanbases are ride or die, no matter how their team is performing. That certainly describes the fans of the Thundering Herd. ​ They are almost as fun to watch as the football players themselves. Many of them don’t leave the game until the final buzzer. Recently, the Herd hosted Eastern Kentucky and easily took a 38-7 victory. The fans were just as loud, if not louder, from the beginning of the first quarter to the final minutes of the last quarter. ​ Access 3 ​One criticism of Joan C. Edwards is how difficult it is to find somewhat decent parking upon arrival. Huntington locals and students are going to fill up the main parking lots pretty quickly, so it’s best to get there pretty early to find a good spot. ​ If not, visitors will have to resort to finding a spot located at any of the nearby parking garages. When I went, I had to pay $20 for a garage, which is not terrible compared to far more egregious prices a university could charge. ​ Return on Investment 4 ​Like all collegiate teams, tickets vary from time to time depending on the sport and the opposing team. On average, the resale price for a ticket to watch a Marshall Thundering Herd home football game is often cited in the range of $30 to $40. ​ The lowest get-in price begins as low as $13, whereas premium seating (VIP suites and certain club seats) can range anywhere between $200 $1,000. For just a standard seat at a non-premium home game, fans can expect to pay around $25 to $45 if they purchase tickets directly in advance. ​ Extras 5 ​Joan C. Edwards Stadium was named after Joan C. Edwards, a jazz singer and philanthropist who, along with her husband James F. Edwards, donated a large sum of money to Marshall University. ​ Also, the stadium itself is named after Ms. Edwards, while the actual playing field is named after her husband. The tragic 1970 plane crash was ultimately made into a sports drama titled We Are Marshall  (2006) starring A-list actor Matthew McConaughey as Coach Jack Lengyel. ​ The film follows him as he arrives on the scene at Marshall University in 1971 and his determination to rebuild a winning culture amongst a grieving community. ​ Final Thoughts ​If you’re ever passing by and want to watch some competitive college football, the Thundering Herd at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is just for you. My overall experience driving to, watching the contest, and driving home, reflecting on it, resulted in a splendid way to end my Saturday evening.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Skyhawk Field 490 Washington St. Easton, MA 02356 Stonehill Skyhawks men's soccer website Skyhawk Field website Skyhawk Soccer   On April 5, 2022, tiny Stonehill College, a private Catholic school located in Easton, Massachusetts, with an enrollment of 2,500 undergraduate students, announced it was moving all of its athletic teams to the NCAA Division I level, effective in the fall of 2022. Before 2022, Stonehill was a member of the Northeast-10 Conference in NCAA Division II. Upon its elevation to Division One, Stonehill joined the Northeast Conference.                                                                                                                          Stonehill’s athletic teams competed for years as the Chieftains. In 2002, the school decided to change its nickname. After considering several options, Stonehill officially changed its nickname to the Skyhawks in 2005. This name has no connection to a bird or animal but does have a connection to the school’s history.   After the school’s property was purchased by the Congregation of Holy Cross, an airfield on site was leased to the Navy during World War II and to private companies afterwards. The airfield was closed in 1955 as the college grew, but the Navy continued to use the land for training exercises and would employ the Skyhawk aircraft between 1954 and 1995.   Before the construction of W.B. Mason Stadium, Skyhawk Field served as the home to Stonehill football and lacrosse. Today it is the primary home of the Skyhawks men’s and women’s soccer teams. Some bigger games are played at W.B. Mason Stadium. The field served as the site of the 2003 NCAA Division II Lacrosse Championship Game between Stonehill and Longwood, won 9-8 by the Skyhawks.   The first men’s soccer team played at Stonehill in 1962. The men’s team has yet to qualify for an NCAA tournament, either in Division I or II. The women’s soccer program began play in 1979. The women’s team has played in three Division II tournaments (2016, 2018, 2019), winning one game in their three appearances.   Food & Beverage 0    There are no concessions available at Skyhawk Field. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks or beverages to enjoy during the match. You’ll be sure to see lots of beverages from the nearby Dunkin’ or Cumby’s in the stands. (That’s Dunkin’ Donuts or Cumberland Farms to those of you who are not local)   Atmosphere 2   The game day presentation at Skyhawk Field is a very basic one, as you would expect at such a small facility. The athletic staff works out of temporary quarters set up at the top of the bleachers, and makes sure that visiting fans have everything they need for an enjoyable afternoon. Music plays out of decent speakers pregame and during halftime. The PA announcer adds a bit of energy and relays game information to the fans in attendance, and if you’re sitting nearby, you can hear the play-by-play crew do their thing. A scoreboard in the west corner of the pitch displays basic game information.   Of course, the fans in the stands do their part to cheer on the Skyhawks and make most of the noise you’ll hear while visiting Stonehill. If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the bleachers, you can bring your own chair and sit along the fence on the far side of the pitch.   Neighborhood 3   Stonehill College’s suburban location and sprawling campus belie its location in a bustling area with many dining and lodging options for visiting fans. State routes 123 and 138 intersect at the southwest corner of campus. Both routes are pretty busy local roads, lined with strip malls filled with the usual national chains alongside a few local eateries in both directions. Stadium Journey recommends checking out Stoneforge Grill or Brach’s Grill and Tap, both right near campus, for your pre- or postgame meal.   While you may not find many attractions in the immediate vicinity of Stonehill, Boston is located just a half hour’s drive to the north. Visiting fans will find no shortage of things to do there. Fans looking for lodging options closer to school should check out the Residence Inn by Marriott just off Route 24.   More information about local accommodations, restaurants, and attractions can be found here .   Fans 2   The crowd at a Stonehill soccer game is what we at Stadium Journey call a “friends and family” crowd. That means that it is not large in size, but virtually everyone in the stands seems to have a connection with the athletes down on the field. As a result, what the crowd may lack in quantity, they make up for in quality. The fans are generally very supportive and boisterous in cheering on the home squad. There’s a decent turnout from the student body, as friends of team members will stop by to support their classmates.   Overall attendance at Skyhawk Field can vary depending on the day of the week, opponent, and time of day the game is being held. Crowds will usually number around 100-200 fans. As mentioned earlier, games that will attract larger crowds will be held at W.B. Mason Stadium. For the 2025 season, six games are scheduled at Skyhawk Field and three at the larger facility.   Access 3   Stonehill College is located in suburban Easton, MA, directly to the west of the city of Brockton and 25 miles south of Boston. The campus is easily accessible, as both Interstates 495 and 93 lead to Route 24, which runs north-south just a mile from Skyhawk Field.   Skyhawk Field is located right near Stonehill’s front entrance on Belmont Street (Route 123). There is no parking on-site, so fans must park at the nearby grass athletic field and walk over to the soccer pitch.   This is a basic facility, with only a small set of bleachers on the southeast side of the pitch. There is plenty of room all around the pitch for fans to stand or set up a chair and take in the action. A pair of port-a-johns on the south corner of the pitch make up the entirety of the facility’s, ummm, facilities. Fans with mobility issues should tread carefully, as there are no paved walkways around Skyhawk Field.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge to attend a Stonehill soccer match. There is also no charge to park your car. With no concessions on site, you will not have to reach for your wallet even once during your visit to Skyhawk Field.   Extras 1   Near the entrance to Skyhawk Field is a plaque dedicating the field to Hernani “Ernie” Branco, who coached the men’s soccer team from 1984 to 1998. The plaque is mounted on a rock, as Branco is the “rock” on which the Stonehill soccer program is built.   Final Thoughts   At first glance, Skyhawk Field may not seem like it’s a proper Division One facility. But its charm is in its simplicity. Pull your favorite lawn chair up to the edge of the pitch and enjoy an afternoon of quality soccer in a relaxed setting.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Savannah Bananas came to Indianapolis, Indiana, this past weekend and played in front of 30,000 people for the two-game series on their 2023 Banana Ball World Tour. Even though Mother Nature had other plans the first night knocked out the power to Victory Field . The skies would open up two days later to provide the canvas for all the wacky hijinks that are Banana Ball. The lines of people stretched around the perimeter of the ballpark with gunpowder gray skies up above. However, once the gates opened, the drops dissipated, and the skies opened up for ideal weather for baseball. Tickets were at a premium, and only Taylor Swift, who was performing at Paycor Stadium 100 miles away in Cincinnati, had a higher demand for tickets. The Bananas themselves have a waitlist of over 800,000. Banana Ball is a 2-hour version of baseball with nine unique rules. Jesse Cole developed the rules, which debuted in front of an audience in June 2020. At the time, the Bananas were members of the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League, but soon this madcap version of the game took off, and the team went around the Southern part of the country to play exhibition games. Soon, fans expected to see Banana Ball instead of the regular version played at the club’s home ballpark in Grayson Stadium. Soon, Cole decided to leave the CPL and play as a professional barnstorming team akin to the Indianapolis Clowns, House of David, and most famously, basketball’s Harlem Globetrotters . Cole was not hard to find at the game; he greeted fans entering the stadium from the centerfield entrance. Decked in his trademark yellow tuxedo and hat, he posed for pictures and selfies with the hundreds who walked through that gate. Soon, he was on the field introducing the team and its brand of baseball to thousands sitting in their seats or on the grass lawn of the stadium. “We drove down on Thursday night, had a flight tire, and then waited for two hours outside the stadium before they canceled the game,” said Julie Dorman from Carmel, Indiana. “We were not going to miss this game today.” The Bananas brand of baseball has its unique 9-rules that include fans making an out on a caught foul ball (there were two of them in Indy), no bunting, no mound visits, or players stepping out of the batter’s box. A batter can steal first on a wild pitch, and after ball four, the batter can run to as many bases, while all nine position players toss the ball to one another to get him out. The most interesting twist is that every inning counts. Teams get a point for scoring the most runs per inning. If the teams are scoreless or tied, that inning is even, and you go to the next one. The Bananas 4-2 by winning 4 of the 9 innings. There was never a dull moment from the time people entered the stadium. Music played over the speaker system, and club M.C. The Young Professor and The Man-Nanas engaged with the audience. Soon, players from the Bananas and their foes, The Party Animals, walked through the crowd tossing bananas and hi-fiving fans young and old. Among the promotions were players catching bananas from teammates in the stands, a boxing-style weigh-in with a dance-off, and the team's tribute to the Lion King - where a baby is hoisted while players kneel below. “This is pure entertainment,” said Joe Newman, who brought his family up outside Louisville, Kentucky, to see the game. “I am not a baseball fan, more of a soccer guy, but these guys entertain you for two hours with music and on-field gimmicks.” Fans decked in official team gear, with a few sporting makeshift t-shirts. I have been to many minor league games and have never seen quite the amount of gear worn in the crowd. The three merchandise tents had long lines throughout the game, with probably quite a few missing out on the action on the field. “We were in Detroit last night and found out we got tickets at the last minute,” said Dave Kenney of Muskegon, Michigan. “My son and I drove three and a half hours to Indy, and now it’ll be a 4-hour drive back to Muskegon, but it was well worth it.” Ask anyone that works for Stadium Journey, along with my wife and friends, and they will tell you that I never sit down for an entire game. That was not the case; I wanted to see what would happen next during each inning and decided to plant myself behind home plate in the suite level to get a bird's-eye view of everything on the diamond. There were two caught foul balls, several sprints after a walk, a person on stilts getting a base hit for a walk-off in one inning, a pitcher with a motorcycle helmet, several celebrations from the Party Animals outside of their dugout, a few backflips from the players, and free donuts handed out for the donut batter striking out. "It was the Harlem Globetrotters meet baseball," said Dave Buddenbaum, who attended the Friday evening game. "Both teams were talented and made the game fun." After the game, Cole and the players came out to thank the 15,000 people and met them on the grass lawn for autographs. The Banana Band played while Jesse signed more autographs and posed for pictures. Mobs of people surrounded members of both teams to get the elusive autograph and photo. The World Tour heads to Akron’s Canal Park for the next night for two games before a few days off before returning to Savannah for the weekend. The 30,000 people who attended games in Indianapolis were provided what had been advertised by the club through social media and word of mouth-baseball and show. The Savanah Bananas are not doing anything new in minor-league baseball promotions in recent years. The tinkering of the rules and limiting the time of play has created a new set of fans fevering for Banana Ball across the country, an impossibility in any structured league. As a result of the record crowds in Indianapolis, the minor league ballparks in this country will likely be replaced with larger major league venues. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com