Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Westwood Arena 90 Woodbine Downs Blvd Etobicoke, ON M9W 5S6 Toronto Patriots website Westwood Arena website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 1,800 Sound The Charge The Toronto Patriots were founded as the Quinte Hawks in Deseronto, Ontario, between Belleville and Kingston.  They were part of the now defunct Metro Jr A Hockey League.  They unfortunately counted disgraced NHL Player Agent, David Frost, among their coaching staff.  Frost was charged with a number of counts of sexual exploitation and was part of a bizarre murder-for-hire plot involving player Mike Danton with Frost as the target. In 1998 the league folded and the Hawks moved from Deseronto to Bancroft and what would eventually become the OJHL.  In 2008, fully distanced from the Quinte days, the team moved to Toronto and became affiliated with the exclusive Upper Canada College private school.  Eventually, they were purchased by Everest Academy and settled in Westwood Arena as the Toronto Patriots, where they have remained since 2014. The current home for the Patriots is the privately owned Westwood Arena.  Located in the Rexdale neighbourhood of what used to be Etobicoke in Toronto, Westwood Arena opened its doors in 1996 and is a hockey hub complete with five rinks and offices for a number of local travel teams.  The main rink has a capacity of 1,800.  Westwood Arena’s parent company, Buckingham Sports Properties counts a number of facilities in Toronto, Cambridge, London and Quebec. Food & Beverage 4 The main concession at Westwood Arena, The Snack Bar, has a decent variety of options.  Hot dogs, burgers, chicken fingers, fries, grilled cheese, bagels, muffins, pizza, popcorn, and onion rings are all on the menu.  Breakfast offerings also on the menu hint at the business of the facility.  Coca-Cola products are the main soft drink options, and water, Powerade, milk, coffee, tea and hot chocolate are also all available.  Right beside The Snack Bar is the Fuel Up Smoothie Bar, which offers a number of blender beverage options.  For those looking for something a little slower, or some alcoholic beverages, The Penalty Box is a full service bar and grill and is right in Westwood Arena, with some seating looking out on some of the smaller rinks. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of Westwood Arena does not show the true size and scope of the facility.  Light brick and siding with blue trim with a fairly pedestrian main entrance highlights the exterior.  Maintaining one of the themes throughout the building, a large banner for the Patriots hangs near the entrance letting everyone know that this is the home of the team. Entering the lobby shows how deceptively large the facility is.  There is no massive and spacious atrium, but a functional lobby that leads to the entrances to the various rinks and shows offices for a variety of youth hockey teams as well as the Patriots.  A simple touch of note in the lobby is the seemingly endless number of framed pictures of NHL players who have all come through the GTHL.  A treasure hunter could spend quite a while going through these pictures that includes the likes of Mike Palmateer, Peter Ing, Mark Osborne, Paul Coffey, Pat Flatley, Mike Liut and John Tavares, to name but a few.  The entry to the main rink is quite obvious to fans as there are markings for the Patriots all over including the doors, floor and above the doors.  The Patriots debuted a new logo in the 2024-2025 season and they are definitely making the most of it. Inside the main rink, fans will find a bright and clean facility with huge, low profile support beams that cross over the ice.  It looks as if everything in this rink has benefited from a fresh coat of paint.  The ice is oriented from east to west with seating only on the north side.  Seating consists of 11 rows of contoured plastic benches on concrete steps.  There are some minor hockey banners hanging on the east side, but no banners hang for the Patriots.  However, fans will definitely know this is the home of the Patriots as the entire south wall is painted with Patriot markings, showing off that new logo and the “Sound The Charge” hashtag being pushed by the team.  Although the Patriots won the Buckland Cup in 2014 and 2015 and won their division in 2012, there are no banners commemorating the successes of the team.  A simple scoreclock hangs on the west wall. The gameday production for the Toronto Patriots is very simple.  Fans are provided with a simple, one page, printed program.  There are no promotions happening of note.  The PA system is decent and the Patriots employ an excitable announcer, who at times is too loud making announcements inaudible.  The Patriots also provide a massively wide variety of music, side-stepping the cliche of the same old songs and mixing it up and keeping it fresh. Neighbourhood 4 Westwood Arena is located in the Rexdale neighbourhood of what was once Etobicoke and is not part of Toronto.  The arena is in a fairly industrial area, so food or drink outside of Westwood Arena will require a trip with the car.  Some options that are not too far include Smash Pit, Little Hut Bar and Grille and a number of chain restaurants south of the arena on Finch Street. Being Toronto, there are a huge number of other sporting options.  OJHL teams in Toronto include the Toronto Jr. Canadians, North York Rangers and Markham Royals.  The Toronto Maple Leafs , Toronto Marlies , York Lions , TMU Bold  and Toronto Varsity Blues  are all other hockey options at different levels, in other parts of the city.  The Toronto Raptors , Toronto Argonauts , Toronto Blue Jays  and Toronto FC  are major league franchises in other sports.  Toronto also has a near infinite number of tourist options.  Most will gravitate downtown and take in the Hockey Hall of Fame and CN Tower, however, in the same area as Westwood Arena is Woodbine Racetrack and the Casino at the Great Canadian.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Great Canadian is right there. Fans 2 Fan support for the Toronto Patriots is not the greatest.  OJHL attendance can be a bit of a challenge to assess as reporting by teams can be a bit spotty.  For the 2024-25 season, at the time of writing, the Toronto Patriots were averaging 119 fans per game.  They ranked 16th in the OJHL, which easily puts them in the bottom third of the league.  The previous season, they averaged 136 fans per game.  The crowd is mostly friends and family and are generally pretty reserved.   Access 4 Westwood Arena is located in the Rexdale neighbourhood of what used to be Etobicoke and is now Toronto.  The arena is between Highways 401 and 407 and 427 and 27.  It is located on Woodbine Downs Boulevard and north of Carrier Drive. Rexdale is probably one of the neighbourhoods of Toronto that is the most easily accessible coming from the west or north.  That being said, Toronto traffic, even though Rexdale is not downtown, is a real thing and can be frustrating depending on the time of the game.  Leave a little extra time for traffic if traveling to Westwood Arena by car.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans wanting to take public transit to the game, there are TTC buses that run on Carrier Drive.  Fans should consult the Toronto Transit Commission  website for fares, schedules and maps.  Getting around Westwood Arena is not too difficult, however, with five ice pads, it could get a bit crowded in the lobby if multiple games are beginning or ending at the same time.  Usually, the Patriots play during a bit of a slower time for the arena.  The washroom facilities at Westwood Arena are adequate for the facility. Return on Investment 4 OJHL hockey is very affordable and the Toronto Patriots are no different.  A ticket for the Patriots runs $15 with discounts for students and seniors.  Tickets must be purchased at the box office and they only accept cash.  Patriots tickets are on the high side for the league, but are still more than affordable.  Parking is free and concession prices are not terrible.  The level of play on the ice is high and fans will enjoy the simple production. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Patriots embracing their new identity and doing everything they can to show patrons that Westwood Arena is the home of the Patriots. An extra mark for the full service bar and grill on site, The Penalty Box. An extra mark for Westwood Arena as a hockey hub for the west end of Toronto. Final Thoughts Taking in OJHL hockey is a low-cost endeavor and a great way to check out some high calibre hockey.  The Toronto Patriots offer a strong product on the ice in a facility that, being privately owned, is a little different than most other OJHL venues.  Westwood Arena is a great place to catch a game and grab a bite to eat.  After taking in the Patriots experience, fans will definitely Sound The Charge! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

If you follow lacrosse, you’ve probably come across writer Kyle Devitte’s work. He’s currently the managing editor of New England Lacrosse Journal, and he’s also the host of their fun podcast, Chasing The Goal , which is a must listen if you want to get inside the heads of high school and college coaches. While it’s informative, Kyle also makes it fun with his wonderful, often self-deprecating, sense of humor. Kyle also writes a newsletter called LacroCity, and he recently launched a recruiting and development consultation firm, Framework Lacrosse. If that weren’t enough, he’s the assistant varsity coach and head JV coach at Hopkinton High School in New Hampshire. Kyle took a few minutes away from his many duties to answer a few questions.    STADIUM JOURNEY: How'd you get into covering lacrosse? What was your career path? Who gave you a break?  KYLE DEVITTE: I went to a liberal arts school, and I loved to write. However, I wasn't the biggest fan of constantly writing about Victorian era novels and semiotics. I loved lacrosse, so I tried my hand at writing about the sport for a local publication in Worcester called The Pulse . They sort of let me go nuts with all sorts of subjects, but I remember writing this piece on another college team in the region that was struggling for numbers that struck a chord with me. After that, I started writing for a few now-defunct sites like LaxNation and AllLacrosseAmerica before I got the courage to ask to cover the 2006 MLL versus Team USA All Star game for Inside Lacrosse . They said, "sure, why not," and I managed to parlay that into being employed by the MLL while I was coaching lacrosse at Emerson College. Eventually, IL asked me to be full time a few years after that and now I'm very happy at New England Lacrosse Journal (NELJ).    STADIUM JOURNEY: What's the best career or life advice you got along the way? KYLE DEVITTE: Great is the enemy of good. I was obsessed with crafting long and meandering epics when I started, then I moved into more of a let's-entertain-the-reader style before settling in on a more concise style that I have now. Along the way, I could be stubborn about what I wanted each piece to be. But at NELJ, I didn't have time to be stubborn, there's too much churn, so I had to shift my focus to telling other people's stories their way instead of my own. That was a very powerful lesson. Writers wear the mask of arrogance to conceal our abject dread of being told we suck. The best way to combat that, for me, was to focus less on what I could do to put my spin on something - usually in the form of some sort of pithy quip or absurdist imagery - and look for a positive through line.    STADIUM JOURNEY: So you interview a lot of high school coaches, public and private. How much do high school coaches recruit? Are the private schools offering scholarships or defacto scholarships and just referring to it as financial aid? What's the deal? KYLE DEVITTE: Public school coaches can only recruit in their own school, so you're just trying to get kids from the baseball team to stop being bored. There is some financial incentive to go to a private school, but it's very, very rarely a full-ride situation, especially in lacrosse.    STADIUM JOURNEY: So how is a New England lacrosse player different from one in say Long Island, upstate New York or the Maryland area? KYLE DEVITTE: I talked about this on a recent podcast. New England players do not have the heritage, or even lineage, yet to get to the levels those other hotbeds are at. There are a lot of coaches in New England who are fundamentally awesome and qualified, but they're first or second-generation lacrosse players. Those other areas have guys who are third and maybe even fourth-generation players and coaches who fundamentally understand and teach the game on a different level. I do think New England is in the conversation as the next area that will adopt that sort of history and ability, but we are still a generation or two away from it.    STADIUM JOURNEY: You're a born and bred New Hampshire guy. How is the lacrosse scene there? What are the positives? Roadblocks? KYLE DEVITTE: Technically, I was born in Bloomington, Indiana, but I was raised in New Hampshire. This is my home. The funny thing is that I used to hate it here and did everything I could to leave when I was a teenager. But I've since come to appreciate the beauty, kindness and spaciousness of this state. The lacrosse scene is still very much developing. We are ahead of Vermont and Maine. Maybe even Rhode Island. But we are way behind Connecticut and Massachusetts. There just aren't enough quality coaches here. And I mean, across the board. We need kids who grew up playing here to come back and work with this next generation of kids so badly. It's really the only thing holding us back. Now that the NHIAA (New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association) recognizes us as a sport and way more kids are playing it, the last obstacle is coach volume. And maybe some more turf fields and/or fieldhouses that don't cost thousands of dollars to rent for town programs.   STADIUM JOURNEY: The University of Maine, UNH, URI and UConn do not field D-1 lacrosse teams.  Why is this? Is this going to change any time soon? I know that UNH used to have a team. KYLE DEVITTE: UNH cut lacrosse my senior year of high school to throw all their money into football. As a result, I legitimately hate UNH athletics. They didn't just cut lacrosse, they cut baseball and a bunch of other sports just to invest in hockey and football for the last 30 years. I have zero respect for that kind of thinking, and I don't blame title IX, either. I think those other schools either don't have the facilities, the budget, or the vision to have a competitive D-1 lacrosse program. UNH has no excuse, they have the America East right there, and they have a women's program as well. To say that it's a budget thing is a copout. Public universities have plenty of money, they just choose to invest it in other arenas. The one domino everyone has been expecting to fall is Boston College bringing back their men's program to D-1, but I'll believe it when I see it.    STADIUM JOURNEY: Since we're on the subject of New Hampshire, what are some places to hit, lacrosse-related or not? And something you've touched on in the podcast, how is New Hampshire different from Vermont? KYLE DEVITTE: Well, I think everyone would say that you have to visit the Tuscan Village in Salem. It's a new development with all sorts of shops and restaurants. A lot of it is outdoors and you can spend a whole day there at a firepit or an outdoor bar talking with friends, even when it's freezing outside. But, southern New Hampshire gets too much burn and it is currently infested with Massachusetts transplants, so I would also recommend a visit to Main Street in Concord. It's one of those rebuilt project main street small towns with restaurants, coffee shops, and little nick nack stores. Standouts for me are Hermanos, Revelstok Coffee, Brothers Cortado, and the Concord Co-op. I actually like Vermont. My first college was St. Michael's, and I really think that area of the state is special. Burlington is criminally underrated and worth a visit for anyone passing through to Canada or upstate New York. There's a lot to do downtown, but wear good sneakers. The cobblestones will break your ankles and then your face.    STADIUM JOURNEY: What's a must-visit lacrosse venue in New England? Why? KYLE DEVITTE: Okay, to be charitable, I'm going to split this up to places that I have actually been to. Public: My team won a state championship at Exeter in 2023, but we also lost a state championship in 2022. But I also enjoyed watching the MIAA (Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association) state championship at St. John's Prep, who play in the MIAA, a public classification - don't ask - in Danvers, Mass. Prep: Brewster's field literally overlooks Lake Winnipesaukee. Can't beat that.  D-1 College: Dartmouth is my favorite place to watch a game. I don't care that it's cold, I don't care that it's out of the way. I care that I don't have to deal with the hell that is Boston traffic to get there. And it's a very relaxing jaunt up I-89. D-2 College: It used to be Merrimack just because you could see a fight in the parking lot after a game, but now they're D-1 and have a much nicer set up. So I have to go with the only D-2 school with a big stadium set up with concessions - Southern New Hampshire University. It also happens to be an 8-minute drive from where I live, so that's an added value.   D-3 College: I have to say that it's Wesleyan for me. Watching a game in the "birdcage" as they call it is surreal. There is one big stand on one side of the field, and that is surrounded by a series of class buildings that look like concrete blocks that a giant placed there by hand. There is one entrance and one exit on the stadium side corner where both teams come in. It's really a lot of fun to see a rivalry game there.    STADIUM JOURNEY: Why is Clark University is so close to your heart? KYLE DEVITTE: Playing lacrosse at Clark taught me how to be a leader. Clark's classrooms taught me how to work. Let me tell you this: English Majors across the world are a much-maligned group. We did/do more work than you. Maybe the Bio and Chemistry people have 3 and 4 hour labs, but we have stacks and stacks of books that we have to read, retain and interpret into 20 page-plus papers every week. We can't fake our way through it. All of those books have to be read. They have to be understood. Then we have to try and spin our thoughts into a trivially different skew just to get a decent grade. Clark taught me that shortcuts - unless you make them yourself - will get you got. My professors never expected me to make a career in this space. I didn't take any journalism classes. But what I did was learn how to do written work with speed, efficiency and bite. I am forever in Clark University's debt. Literally and figuratively.      STADIUM JOURNEY: What's your book about and when can we expect it? KYLE DEVITTE: The book has gone through many iterations. Right now it's a treatise on the value and experience of D-3 lacrosse. I have a treatment, but I need to dedicate a lot of time to interviewing all the people who want their stories told, good and bad. I know that's vague, but it is intentionally so. I'll probably just drop it on Amazon one day without any warning. Related: I am bad at making money.    Jon Hart is @manversusball

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 NRG Stadium One NRG Park Houston, TX 77054 Houston Texans website NRG Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 72,000 Houston Texans – NRG Stadium In 1997 the Houston Oilers packed up shop, bid goodbye to the Astrodome and Space City, and moved to the Volunteer State, Tennessee. This left the fourth-largest city in America without professional football for the first time since 1960. The ensuing years would be frustrating for fans and the city alike, as Houston sought to reclaim admittance to the NFL. Businessman Bob McNair was granted the rights to a new Houston franchise in 1999, with the team set to take in 2002. The Houston Texans would take the field during the 2002-03 season with a great deal of promise and fanfare – they would take to the field that inaugural season from the only home stadium they’ve ever known, NRG Stadium. Built as a (giant) neighbor to the historic Astrodome, the now-named NRG Stadium (originally Reliant Stadium) became the latest in the league to feature a retractable roof, annually becoming one of the highest-attended stadiums in the league. This would especially be the case as the Texans fortunes on the field began to rise in the 2010s, as they claimed the AFC South Division championship in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019 (they also recently claimed the title in 2023 and 2024). This rise came from the stellar play of newly enshrined Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Johnson  and future Canton enshrine J.J. Watt , among others. NRG Stadium is a reflection of everything that makes Houston a great city: it’s bold, it’s diverse, it’s energetic, and it’s very Texan, naturally.   Food & Beverage   5 One of the best things about NRG Stadium is its concession offerings – the offerings are quintessential H-Town, with a heavy focus on barbecue and Tex-Mex. You can find these offerings at the El Tiempo kiosks (street tacos, anyone?) and the Texas Smokehouse and Truth BBQ (brisket sandwiches, y’all) stands on the 100, 300, and 500 levels. Local favorites, such as Laurenzo’s (French dip sandwiches!) and Trill Burgers, are also well represented. There are also plenty of kiosks that offer regular gameday fare like hot dogs, nachos, pizza, chicken fingers and sandwiches, and popcorn (be on the lookout for the Cheeto’s popcorn carts). If you are feeling adventurous you can also try chicken wonton nachos, Asian infusion beef teriyaki tacos, and strawberry cheesecake dessert pretzels, which are new items on the menu this season. Adult beverages can also be found in multiple spots, including the Bud Light Lounge and Bud Light Cantina on the main concourse, as well as Crown Royal Saloon near the south end zone. These seating areas cater to grown-ups looking to take a break in the action, offering seating areas as well as an in-house DJ. These are fun experiences and I’d recommend making at least a pass through one of them on your visit to NRG Stadium. You won’t go hungry at NRG Stadium; my only caveat is these items are all at NFL prices, so just be prepared for a little bit of sticker shock when it comes time to pay.   Atmosphere   4 The Texans – like most of the NFL – do a great job of making game days at NRG Stadium feel like a very big deal. In addition to the regular accoutrements of the division championship banners hanging from the rafters and the Texans Ring of Honor underneath the press box, along with team merchandise stores around every corner on every level of the stadium, the Texans offer up multiple other events and activities that enhance the gameday atmosphere. Each week has a theme; for example, the most recent game I attended was Kids Day and featured junior cheerleaders taking the field before the game, contests (a baby race) throughout the day, and face painters, balloon artists, and games for kids in the concourse, as well as special “kids treats” available for purchase at some of the food stands – think marshmallow treats, cake pops, chocolate pretzel rods, etc. There is also usually a live music artist in and around the stadium on game days, and there is always something big planned at halftime. You’re going to have a good time at NRG Stadium – even if the team you’re rooting for is not winning.   Neighborhood   4 I’ve written numerous times in past reviews expounding on the virtues of Houston and all its numerous attractions. For sports fans, if you plan your visit right you might be able to catch a Houston Astros  game, or a Houston Rockets  game, or a Houston Dynamo  game when you take in a Texans game at NRG Stadium, as all their seasons converge with the Texans at certain times during the calendar year. H-Town is also home to attractions such as Space Center Houston , world-class facilities like the Downtown Aquarium  and Houston Zoo , fantastic urban green spaces like Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou Park , not to mention the Houston Museum District  offering more things to see and do than anyone could do in a week. In short, there are plenty of things to do before and after Texans games for fans. In terms of dining, this is the one area that keeps the score for NRG Stadium from being even higher – the stadium is removed from Houston’s downtown area, so it’s kind of off by itself in the city. NRG Park is a massive complex and takes up a huge amount of real estate, and as such, there really aren’t any spots to eat at within walking distance of the facility. There are numerous food trucks along the roads leading toward the complex, however, and there are several restaurants that are within a five-minute drive – these include Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant  and Angelo’z Po Boys . There are plenty of other options across the city, though. For lodging, there are a few withing walking distance of NRG Stadium, including Staybridge Suites Houston - Medical Center  and Comfort Suites near Texas Medical Center . As with the dining options, there are plenty of other spots in Houston; the only limit is your budget.   Fans   4 This season the Houston Texans sat in 10th place in the league in terms of attendance. NRG Stadium averaged 71,300 fans per game, which is virtually a sellout each Sunday (or Thursday or Monday). During the last game I attended, I was heartened to see so many fans tailgating in the parking lots and decked out in Texans gear. The crowd was loud and energetic throughout the entirety of the game, which always makes for a better experience. My one point of contention is the sheer volume of opposing team fans in every corner of the stands. This may just be the state of pro football these days with easy access to tickets on the secondary market. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it is definitely something that is noticeable.   Access   4 As mentioned, NRG Stadium is sort of set off from a good chunk of the major metro area of Houston. While it’s not too far removed from Texas Loop 610, it’s just over a 40-minute drive from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Another item I’ve written extensively about in terms of Houston is its traffic – you’re going to be stuck in it no matter what time of day you drive into the city; it’s just an immutable fact. However, if you want to avoid the grind, the Houston METRO  mass transit is a good way to go. Both the light rail and city buses have routes that will drop you off at NRG Park. Once you get to the stadium, parking is plentiful. Depending on how far you want to walk, you can find some relatively affordable options.   Return on Investment   4 Single game tickets for the Houston Texans start at $50 per person, which is pretty on par for the NFL these days. With tickets looking like they’re going to be hard to come by outside of the secondary market, as the Texans enjoy another upswing on the field, costs could easily get higher. When looking at parking near NRG Stadium, I was able to find spots at some intrepid businesses in the area offering parking for the game as low as $20. However, the closer you get to the stadium, the closer the cost gets to triple digit costs. Concessions here match the scale of the overall prices. If you’re bringing a family to the game, you can expect to drop a pretty penny or two to cover everything. The one thing that makes the costs more palatable, however, is how the Texans are playing these days – with Burgeoning stars all over the field, you’re going to (mostly) get your money’s worth at NRG Stadium.   Extras   4 A lot of what the Texans do mirrors what the college game does in this area, and that’s a good thing. Costumed mascot? Meet Toro , one of the best in the league. Cheerleaders? Yep, the Texans Cheerleaders  can be found on both sidelines, performing throughout the game during breaks in the action. How about a band? You can find the Texans Deep Steel Thunder  drumline performing on the main concourse before the game starts, as well as during breaks in the action. Oh, and don’t forget the Texans Mariachis , as you’ll see them during player introductions and at halftime; all great stuff that goes above and beyond what you normally will find in the pro game.   Final Thoughts I’ve been to NFL games at NRG Stadium more than any other facility in the country – though it is now over two decades old, it still feels new somehow. There is also always a new wrinkle or a new amenity to make it feel fresh. Neither the stadium nor the Texans have the history or the championship pedigree that some of the great places in the NFL, such as your Superdome  in New Orleans, your Lambeau Field  in Green Bay, or your Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. However, I would put it right up there with any of the shiny new stadiums that have been built in the past decade or so. If you’re a football fan, I would definitely add NRG Stadium and Houston to your bucket list. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Madison Square Garden 4 Pennsylvania Plaza New York, NY 10001 New York Rangers website Madison Square Garden website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 18,006 Madison Square Garden Continues To Flourish Madison Square Garden, or MSG as the locals often call it, has finally completed its latest transformation. After the inside was refurbished from 2011-2013, the outside and main entrance were revived over the past 5 years. The 7th Avenue entrance is now majestic and grand and offers a little pedestrian courtyard with seating on 33rd Street. The Garden is home to the New York Rangers of the Metropolitan Division of the National Hockey League and the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association. Just to the right of the new entrance is a Los Tacos No. 1 and Anita Gelato and a modern gateway to the subway and Penn Station. Fun fact: How did Madison Square Garden get its name? Answer: The Garden was originally situated at Madison Square Park at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway at 23rd Street) and was named after James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. Two venues called Madison Square Garden were located just northeast of the square, the original Garden from 1879 to 1890, and the second Garden from 1890 to 1925. The third MSG moved to a new location from 1926 until 1968 on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th streets. In 1969, the 4th and present location was born between 7th and 8th Avenue from 31st to 33rd Streets. Madison Square Garden is the last of the NBA and NHL arenas not to be named after a corporate sponsor. In recent years, there has been pressure on building owner Jim Dolan (who also owns the Rangers and Knicks) to relocate MSG and make way for a new, vibrant, and massive Pennsylvania Station that sits underneath the Garden. The city council approved a special permit of only five years in 2023 to allow Dolan to remain until 2028. The move attempts to have Dolan commit financially to the expanded train hall before granting a longer special permit to keep MSG at its present location. The Garden received a much-needed facelift from 2011-2013. The inside of the arena was upgraded to include new seats and bathrooms, wider concourses, new luxury suites closer to the ice, club seating areas with high-end food, and a Bridge Level with seats that provide a great aerial view and some bar stool seating. The West Balcony was also added which replaced the old skyboxes. There are six entry points - four on 8th Avenue and the main entrance on 7th Avenue which leads to the lobby and box office. There are also 2 VIP entrances. Food & Beverage 5 In addition to traditional fare, the lower bowl includes Lavo Meatballs, Avenue Cantina, Carnegie Deli, Mike’s Hot Honey (chicken), Fuku chicken sandwiches, Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque, Paulie Gee’s Pizza, Rock Lobster, and Tao Sushi. Other choices include Daily Burger, Garden Market, and Chicken and Things. On the 200 level, there is Dunkin Donuts, Bar at the Garden, Pat LaFrieda Prime Rib, Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, and 7th Street Burger. There are also vegan and gluten-free options. For beverages, there are craft beers on tap (Blue Point, Shock Top, and Goose Island) and mixed drinks. A 24-ounce draft beer is $16. Pepsi products are the beverage of choice. A 20oz soft drink is $20 and Aquafina is $5.50. Many of these options are on the 200 level with less of the high-end fare. The Bridge Level includes Daily Burger ($16 for a cheeseburger), Chicken & Things ($17 tenders and fries), Bar at the Garden, and Fratelli’s Pizza. Remember to have your Chase Card handy as a 20% discount is offered for fans who spend $30 or more. The lines get extremely long at the end of the period. Two tips: head to the concession stands before the horn sounds or if possible wait for the end of the second period as lines are not as long during the second intermission. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere and game day production are solid. The Rangers hype video leads into the intro of The Who classic Baba O’Riley and then the voice of PA Announcer Joe Tolleson blares “Here they are: The New York Rangers” and up comes the Who as the players hit the ice. Then operatic tenor John Brancy is sure to enliven the fans by singing the national anthem. Brancy does about half of the Rangers games. MSG Ceiling, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Madison Square Garden is special, from the lobby to the box office, the team store, and the exhibits that commemorate special events. The inside features the iconic ceiling with a cable-supported roof. The 28’ x 57’ scoreboard (which displays the names and numbers of all skaters on the ice throughout the game) over center ice is riveting and then your eyes are drawn to the Chase Bridges which cross the ice at the top of both sides of the upper bowl. A new banner 2023-2024 Regular Season Champions was added to the rafters to start this season but that will not impress most Rangers fans. Four banners commemorating the Rangers’ four Stanley Cup wins (yes only 4) also hang over the Club Lounge seats. The lower bowl is located on the 6th floor and the upper level is on the 7th floor. The lower concourse is fairly wide but gets jammed quickly right before the game and at intermissions. The upper concourse is extremely narrow in spots and lines back up for food and bathrooms causing sporadic traffic jams in between periods. Fans can take escalators to the seating areas but check with Guest Services and they will direct persons who need assistance to elevators and can call for a wheelchair if needed. The arena is divided into Sections 100 through 400 and in addition, there are 96 suites on the Club Level. The sightlines have been much improved since the more than $1 billion renovation that was completed a decade ago. On the negative side, legroom is at a minimum. The current building pays homage to the old Blue Seaters who were the raucous backbone of the Rangers in the 70s and 80s. The 400 Level features blue seats and is appropriately named ‘’The Blue Seats’’ for the former Garden faithful. Neighborhood 5 The area around MSG, located in midtown Manhattan, is busy and boisterous. Pedestrians, taxis, trucks, cars, and buses flood 7th and 8th Avenues and 34th Street even late at night. Penn Station is situated beneath the building and the new bold and beautiful Moynihan Train Station is directly adjacent to MSG on 8th Avenue. The building is 255,000 square feet, housing both Amtrak and Long Island Rail Road ticketing and waiting areas, the unrivaled design includes state-of-the-art security features and a contemporary, digital passenger experience. Macy’s, Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center are within walking distance. There is the Molly Wee Pub, Stout, and Mustang Harry’s for pre-gaming. For food there is Koreatown and NY Pizza Suprema (413 8th Avenue) is often rated one of the best pizza places in Manhattan. There is a bevy of lodging options including The New Yorker Hotel, Fairfield Inn and Suites, the Renaissance New York, and Courtyard New York Manhattan/Chelsea. Fans 4 New York Rangers fans are more reactive than proactive. The days of cheerleading and rallying the team when the home team is down in professional sports are over for the most part and fans tend to wait for something to happen to cheer. Prices have forced loyal fans to watch more games from home as MSG has catered to the rich and famous. Despite the outrageous ticket prices, the Rangers sell out almost every game and are averaging 17,975 so far this season. Blueshirts fans enjoy wearing their Rangers sweaters to the games and it’s common to see many women in the crowd. The Garden still erupts for goals by the home team as they break into the Goal Song (Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey!!) with the horn blaring and the red lights swirling under the Jumbotron. The song called Slapshot, which debuted in 1995, was written by Rangers organist Ray Castoldi. The favorite chant is the fans’ rallying cry “Let’s Go Rangers” and also ”Igor, Igor!” after a great save or saves to salute All-Star goalie Igor Shesterkin if he happens to be manning the net. The ultimate Rangers fan is Larry Goodman (aka Dancin Larry) who dances to Strike It Up at almost every game during the final TV timeout of the third period with the Rangers cheerleaders encouraging his act. Larry has been doing his thing since 1996. The Rangers are the only team in the league without a mascot. Maybe it’s time has come. The Garden does a good job of displaying plenty of crowd shots on the scoreboard during breaks in the action. MSG does three T Shirt Tosses which get the joint jumping and adds a few celebrity sightings. The sound system is clear and music is a mix of pop and organ and played at a good decibel level. Access 5 Access is a plus except for traffic around MSG. The Path Train from New Jersey, subway stations on 6th (B, D, F and M and N, Q, R, and W) and 8th Avenue (A, C and E and 1, 2 and 3), LIRR trains from Long Island and Queens underneath at Penn Station, and Grand Central Station (serving Westchester and Connecticut) is about a 15-20 minute walk. Driving to MSG can be problematic coming in from the West Side Highway or East River Drive. There are plenty of parking facilities nearby so check SpotHero or ParkWhiz to prepay for parking which runs about $30-$45. The doors open 90 minutes before the event and security scanning is fairly efficient. Return on Investment 2 The investment for one event at MSG is costly. If you can find a ticket for under $100 consider yourself lucky. The only time to get in for less is for early-season weeknight games in October and November or if the Rangers fall out of playoff contention. The lower bowl will run $150 or more for behind the goal (not including TicketMaster fees) and much more to sit at center ice ($350 and up). Food and beverages are pricey but much more options are available and the quality has improved. For the most part, steer clear of souvenirs and look for less costly options online or in local sporting goods stores. Extras 4 One point is for the Theater at Madison Square which features Annie presently starring Whoopi Goldberg. Another point is the diversity of MSG which offers in addition to the Knicks and St. John’s basketball, concerts, and comedy shows. Avril Lavigne, Mary J. Blig,e and Dua Lipa are three headliners set to perform in 2025. Billy Joel, who holds the record for the greatest number of appearances at the Garden with 150 shows stated that "Madison Square Garden is the center of the universe as far as I'm concerned.” A blue banner honoring Joel’s 150 hangs from the rafters. The third point is for tradition: the classic Rangers sweater has been in use since the franchise's birth in 1926, with several alterations along the way. Tex Rickard was the first owner of the Rangers, one of the Original Six teams that competed in the NHL before its 1967 expansion, along with the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, and Toronto Maple Leafs. The fourth and final point is for the impressive new main entrance on 7th Avenue. leading into the lobby. This area was covered by scaffolding for a few seasons and now is wide open with the marquee flashing upcoming events. This is an entrance worthy of its moniker “The World’s Most Famous Arena”. Final Thoughts MSG is always deserving of a Stadium Journey and not just for hockey. The Arena is vibrant and exciting but don’t forget the plastic. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Facebook

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 CAA Centre 7575 Kennedy Road Brampton, ON L6W 4T2 Brantford Steelheads website CAA Centre website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 5,000 Swimming 7 KM Upstream Major Junior hockey in the GTA has had a pretty difficult existence.  The Brampton Steelheads are new to the Ontario Hockey League in 2024.  The Steelheads moved 7 km north of their previous home in Mississauga .  With low attendance and a reported increase in rent, a move out of Mississauga became desirable.  The Steelheads were founded in 1996 as a school affiliated team, the Toronto St. Michael’s Majors.  Owner Eugene Melnyk, unable to find a more suitable home than the historic, yet drastically undersized St. Michael’s College School Arena, purchased the Mississauga IceDogs in 2007.  The intention was to get control of the lease in Mississauga, move the Majors there and sell the IceDogs.  The IceDogs would move to St. Catharines to become the Niagara IceDogs .  The Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors lasted until 2012 when they were sold to a group led by Elliott Kerr and rebranded the Mississauga Steelheads.  The home for the Steelheads is CAA Centre.  The city owned arena opened in 1998 and has a capacity of 5,000.  It is an appropriate home for OHL hockey as it housed the Brampton Battalion from 1998 to 2013, before they moved to North Bay .  A familiar story for OHL hockey in the GTA is once again brewing, low attendance and an uncertain future. Food & Beverage 3 CAA Centre has a moderate selection of concession options.  Hot dogs, burgers, nachos, pizza, fries, poutine, chicken nuggets, and popcorn are available.  Select stands offer ice cream options.  Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice at CAA Centre.  Water, coffee, tea and hot chocolate are also available.  Some stands also offer limited beer options. Atmosphere 2 CAA Centre has a fairly pedestrian exterior.  Light coloured siding can be found around the exterior and CAA Centre offers no main or grand entrance.  One of the curiosities of CAA Centre is a large decorative rock honouring former Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Joey Smallwood sits at the west entrance of the arena.  Entry into CAA Centre leads to a cramped concourse.  CAA Centre is a hub for the Brampton hockey community as it also has three other NHL sized rinks along with the main spectator arena.  Around the concourse there are some Steelheads markings.  It is clear that the Steelheads are embracing their Mississauga history.  Team photos from past Mississauga Steelheads teams are found in the concourse.  The most interesting part of the concourse is definitely the Brampton Sports Hall of Fame.  Fans can peruse the portraits of inducted members and include Cassie Campbell, Jamie Storr, Stan Butler and Rick Nash amongst others.  The concourse is a horseshoe design and does not offer a 360 degree path around the rink. Upon entering the seating bowl, fans will find the ice oriented from east to west with truss supports across the roof.  Fans should find themselves on the south side of the seating for the perfect centre ice logo picture.  The four-sided videoboard that hangs above the ice is unique in that it is essentially four screens over four small scoreclocks.  It is simple but effective.  The Steelheads bringing their history with them continues in the seating bowl as there are two Mississauga Steelheads banners for a 2017 Division and Conference Championship, hanging above the ice.  There is also a banner honouring former OHL Commissioner David Branch and his 45 years of service.  This banner can be found in all OHL buildings for the 2024-2025 season.  The seating consists of 15 rows of purple arena seats with some sections having padding.  There is no seating at the east end and a number of luxury boxes are found along the north and south sides, behind the general seating.  The CAA Centre itself is not that unique and is essentially the same design as the arenas in Mississauga, Sarnia  and others. The gameday production of a Steelheads game is fairly simple.  The game begins with a minor hockey player skating around the ice, carrying a Steelheads flag and then is joined by mascots Sauga and Rosie, both monikers that are unique to Mississauga, but have little relevance to Brmapton.  The 50/50 draw and chuck-a-puck are also staples of a Steelheads game. Neighbourhood 3 CAA Centre is located adjacent to the County Court neighbourhood of Brampton.  It is on the grounds of the larger Brampton Sports Park and as a result, there is little for pre or post game food and drink in the immediate area.  A short drive in the car offers a few choices.  New China Garden and Pomodoro Italian Kitchen are more unique options to go along with a number of large chain restaurants north of the arena on Steeles. As far as other sporting options in the area, the CAA Centre is also the home of the Brampton Honey Badgers of the CEBL, but their schedule will not cross the Steelheads schedule.  The Brampton Excelsiors of the OJLL also play in the summer.  The CAA Centre is a few short minutes from the town of Caledon East and their three hockey teams, the Caledon Admirals, Bombers and Golden Hawks.  There are far more options for fans willing to expand their search into Mississauga or Toronto.  Other tourist options in the area include the Peel Art Gallery and checking out Downtown Brampton.  However, Brampton is very much part of the GTA and far more options can be found by heading to Toronto.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Fairfield Inn Brampton is not far away. Fans 2 A combination of increasing rent and poor attendance are the reasons the Steelheads jettisoned Mississauga in favour of Brampton.  However, as of this writing, the attendance has not made a huge increase since the move.  The 2023-2024 season saw the Mississauga Steelheads draw 2,400 fans per game, good for the basement of the OHL.  The Brampton Steelheads have not climbed any higher and as of this writing have attracted only 1,940 fans per game in the 2024-2025 season.  The fans that are in attendance don’t bring much excitement, and the experience ends up feeling rather depressing.   Access 3 The CAA Centre is located adjacent to the County Court neighbourhood of Brampton.  It is at essentially the confluence of Highways 410 and 407, on Kennedy Road.  Fans coming from out of province should beware that Highway 407 is a toll highway.  Although it may seem that getting to the arena is not difficult, traffic in this area can be a real chore, especially on Highway 410 during the week.  There is free parking on site, but beware that there are a number of spots that are reserved for season ticket holders.  For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, there are Brampton Transit  bus stops on Kennedy Road.  Fans should consult the Brampton Transit website for fares, maps and schedules.  Inside the CAA Centre, the concourses are small and can get cramped.  Considering the low number of fans in attendance, this is definitely a concern.  It is not possible to walk a full 360 degree circle in the concourse and doubling back may be necessary.  The washroom facilities are decent in the facility. Stadium Journey acknowledges that the security protocols in major sports are constantly changing.  It is highly recommended that fans consult the Brampton Steelheads  and CAA Centre  websites for prohibited items and safety procedures. Return on Investment 3 Brampton Steelhead tickets are on a tiered system with the lowest priced seats at $26 up to $31 for platinum.  Gallery seats are $50 and are at the top of the east end and offer in-seat service.  There are discounts also for youth and seniors.  Parking on site is free and concession prices are a bit on the expensive side.  The plus is that OHL hockey is among the best anywhere and in their first season the Brampton Steelheads have a strong team on the ice.  For an improved ROI, for fans in the stands to provide a better experience is necessary. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Brampton Steelheads embracing the Mississauga Steelheads history. An extra mark for the Steelheads focus on youth hockey and bringing out as many youth teams as they can. Final Thoughts It remains to be seen if the Steelheads can make a successful transition to Brampton.  At the time of writing it seems that the move from Mississauga was not necessarily a bad one, but Brampton has not provided a significant improvement for the team.  Even though it is only 7 km from their former home to the CAA Centre, the Steelheads are definitely swimming upstream! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

The Trans Am Series Presented by Pirelli weaves its way across North America each year, showcasing some of the best racing in all of motorsports. A mix of seasoned pros and young guns take to the track in fire-breathing racecars that thrill fans all over. This season saw a unique mix of circuits on the schedule, hitting some of the best tracks that fans have been flocking to for years. Tracks are ranked according to Stadium Journey's patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's food and beverage options, race day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access (both inside and outside the track), return on investment, and an extra category for anything that doesn't fall in the other categories. When two or more tracks receive the same score, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the ties. To view the complete review for each track, just click on the link below the photos of each event. Let the thunder roll on the 2024 Trans Am Series rankings… (All reviews by Chris Green) 1. Road America 4.14 The summer of racing at Road America includes numerous events for the race fans to attend; a popular one for fans to attend is Trans Am weekend. Held over the past few years as a standalone event, this weekend features the likes of International GT, FRP, and PSSA. While not as popular as other track events at Road America, this one is no less worth a visit. 2. CTMP 3.71 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (also known as Mosport) is one of the best-known race courses in Canada, and indeed around the world. The return of the Trans Am series highlights the annual Labour Day Sprints weekend, which also features the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, FR and F4 Americas, Radical Cup Canada, and others. 3. Lime Rock 3.71 Despite the best efforts of the track’s neighbors, Lime Rock Park is a historic and popular racing facility hidden away in northwestern Connecticut. Nestled in a small valley and surrounded by stunning forests, this New England center of speed is small yet fierce, attracting race fans from around the globe to its secluded curves. After hosting the likes of IMSA and SRO World Challenge over the past few years, the classic Memorial Day race weekend now features SVRA vintage racing and Trans Am action. 4. Road Atlanta 3.71 Nestled an hour north of Atlanta, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta offers some iconic sights and non-stop racing action over four days in the fall. This track offers plenty of great viewing areas and camping, helping the Atlanta SpeedTour rise quickly as one of the best events of the year for fans in Trans Am and SVRA. 5. COTA 3.57 As if to cement the stereotype of everything being bigger in Texas, Circuit of the Americas (often called COTA for short) in Austin provides no better example of this. Indeed, the site of the annual US Grand Prix for Formula One is also host to myriad other races throughout the year, including the Vintage Racing World Finals during the Trans-Am and SVRA SpeedTour race weekend. 6. Sebring 3.57 The start of the race season shows up early in Florida, and Sebring is a perfect place to celebrate that. The annual SpeedTour weekend, featuring SVRA, TransAm, and International GT, showcases sportscar racing’s past and future. Held each year in late February, this race is a great place for families and car enthusiasts, complete with car shows and thrilling race action. 7. Watkins Glen 3.43 Since they first began racing here in 1948, the speedway has attracted some of the greatest racers in all of motorsports, across a wide variety of manufacturers. Now, this history is celebrated yearly when SVRA, Trans-Am, and IGT take to the track. Sadly, 2024’s event saw increased ticket prices, an earlier date thanks to NASCAR’s shifting schedule taking over the September weekend previously used, and the annual vintage festival no longer happening on the same weekend. 8. VIR 3.00 The famed Virginia International Raceway has been a favorite visit among sportscar racers for decades. The winding roads through the hills of rural southern Virginia are challenging for many, while also providing a beautiful, verdant backdrop for some of racing’s best to test each other’s mettle. The annual SpeedTour weekend at the track features Trans-Am, SVRA’s vintage racing, and the FR and F4 series, showcasing open-wheel racing’s future talent. 9. NOLA 3.0 Touted as an un-tapped motorsports market for years, NOLA Motorsports Park is located outside of New Orleans near TPC Louisiana in Avondale. The one-time host of IndyCar racing has seen the likes of SRO America and others come and go over the years. However, the SVRA and Trans Am SpeedTour weekend has quietly become a staple on the schedule, giving fans something to help their racecar cravings. 10. Gateway 3.00 The sound of race cars is not an uncommon sound around World Wide Technology Raceway; the track hosts the likes of IndyCar, NHRA, and NASCAR every year. However, the Trans Am and SVRA SpeedTour weekend at the track is a new kind of race for the facility since its debut in 2023, as it features pro racing and sportscars on the track’s infield road course layout. This means a new kind of racing is available to fans in St. Louis that hasn’t been around for many years. 11. Pitt Race 2.86 Taking over and renovating an old racetrack into a modern facility is no easy task, yet the folks at Pitt Race have done exactly that. Formerly known as Beaver Run, Pittsburgh International Race Complex is a well-manicured racetrack just under 45 minutes northwest of Pittsburgh proper. The layout is challenging, featuring lots of elevation changes and technical corners. 12. Mid-Ohio 2.86 Mid-Ohio was known for being a top-level destination for car racing, but the quality at the facility has fallen off in recent years. The facility provides exciting racing and has loyal fans, but unfortunately that is where the positives end; the traffic issues getting in and out aren’t much help either. However, in 2024 ARCA joined Trans Am, SVRA, and F4/FR’s SpeedTour weekend for a Friday show, adding stock cars to the weekend slate.

Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey My beloved hometown of San Antonio is known the world over as a true food lovers’ paradise. We – and I almost exclusively use “we” when talking about the Alamo City – were the second city in the United States to be recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative City of Gastronomy . If you want it, we’ve got it. The Best  Tex-Mex in the state? Yep, that’s ours (come at me everyone else; this is the hill I will die on). Great barbecue? We’ve got that, too. The city is also home to a burgeoning food hall, world-class steakhouses, authentic Asian cuisine, and one of the oldest German restaurants  in the country. We are also home to some truly unique dishes that aren’t found outside of this pocket of the Great State of Texas – in a previous story I unveiled the puffy taco  to the wider world. This time around, I will shed light on an even more obscure, equally loved, and sadly vanishing dish: the crispy dog . The long and short of it is that a crispy dog is a plain hot dog stuffed with American cheese, then wrapped in a corn tortilla and deep fried to a nice golden brown. Served up with your dipping sauce of choice (I prefer straight up mustard, but that’s just me), this dish has always been an inexpensive, deeply satisfying way to fill a belly. Humble yet cherished. If you find someone who is from San Anto  of a certain age, they will probably have a story about a maternal member of their family – their mom, their tía , or their abuela  – making this dish for them. If you’ve got that memory deep inside of you, your first bite of a crispy dog is instant nostalgia doused with familial love. Once upon a time you could find the beloved crispy dog right alongside the puffy tacos, enchiladas, and chalupas, etc. These days, however, you will be hard-pressed to find them on any menu. However, the OG of crispy dogs is Ray’s Drive Inn . After more than a half century this place is still alive and well, and still serving up the best version of the crispy dog in Texas. Ray’s is also at least an early server of, and at best the originator of, the puffy taco. Restaurant founder Ray Lopez put the crispy dog on the menu beginning in 1956, and it has been a staple ever since. Ray’s Drive Inn’s crispy dogs come two to an order with the aforementioned side of mustard – the first bite is the best; crispy (naturally), gooey, and savory. It’s a dish that’s truly greater than the sum of its humble parts. My one bit of warning is that these are extremely addicting, so by the time you’re halfway through your second dog, you’re contemplating another order. While the crispy dog may be vanishing from most restaurants, if you can find a place that still offers them up, you’re in for a treat. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by James Hilchen and Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 CHS Field 360 Broadway St St Paul, MN 55101 St. Paul Saints website CHS Field website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 7,210 A Saintly Good Time Opened on May 21, 2015, CHS Field is home to the Saint Paul Saints. The Saints were born in 2003 and were a member of the Northern League until 2005 when they became members of the American Association. 2021 marked a new beginning of sorts for the team as the Saints left the independent baseball world and became the Triple-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Between the beautiful ballpark, great food, unique promotions, and a very creative staff, CHS Field is one of the true gems in all of baseball. CHS Field replaced Midway Stadium as the home of the Saints. Midway Stadium, which had hosted the Saints since 2003 simply became outdated and too small to hold the fans of a franchise that has proven to be extremely successful over the years. Located in the Lowertown District of St. Paul, the $89 million ballpark played host to both the 2016 and 2019 American Association All-Star Games. Food & Beverage 5 If you can’t find anything you like to eat here, you probably aren’t trying very hard. The ballpark offers a litany of different foods along with an abundance of choices for beer drinkers. In addition to all the usual ballpark fare, CHS Field ups the ante on food choices. The poutine with smoked pork shoulder is a favorite among the fans. French fries with cheese curds and pork shoulder all smothered in brown gravy is a winning combination and highly recommended. Bacon-wrapped blueberry bratwurst, pork belly pops (pork belly on a stick dunked in coleslaw), chicken and waffles with maple syrup, bacon and sausage gravy, and smoked turkey ciabatta are among the other unique items offered up. On warmer days at the park, be prepared to stand in line for Snuffy’s Malt Shop. It may be a bit of a wait, but the shakes and malts are far superior to most ballpark shakes and you have a perfect view of the field action while waiting. If you are a craft beer fan, you will be happy. There are numerous options throughout the ballpark to go along with the more traditional domestic options. Head to the left field corner where over 30 craft beers are available. If alcohol isn’t your thing, give local Killebrew (yes, that Killebrew, we are in Minnesota Twins country) Root Beer or Cream Soda a try. Atmosphere 5 This is what the Saints are known for…crazy promotions and between innings entertainment. They certainly deliver and what else would you expect from a team that includes Bill Murray as one of its owners? Prior to entering the stadium, take a look to the left of the entrance area. There you will see plaques that celebrate the contributions of scouts that are in the Professional Baseball Scouts Hall of Fame. All inductees are honored by having their plaques displayed at three minor league and three independent club’s ballparks. You can walk around the entire ballpark and it is highly suggested. In the right field corner is the Treasure Island Terrace. You can’t miss the black and yellow pirate ship which is a multi-level space that can be rented to groups during games. Also towards the right field corner is the team shop. The team shop is well worth a look, but generally very popular and therefore busy, so be prepared for a bit of a line. There is a kids play area behind the center field wall and in left field are great views of both bullpens along with a grass berm that sits directly behind the bullpens. Down the third baseline is the must-see attraction at CHS Field. Between sections 118-120, is the City of Baseball Museum. Opened in May, 2019, the museum celebrates baseball in Saint Paul. Among the treasures in the museum are a Roy Campanella game-used bat, Rey Ordonez’ 1997 Gold Glove, a Toni Stone (first woman to play professional baseball for the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro American League) autographed baseball, and so much more. Admission is free for fans during games and is also open during the team’s regular business hours of 9-6 Monday-Friday and 10-2 on Saturdays during the season. Behind home plate sits Monument Pork (an homage to Monument Park in Yankee Stadium). The inductees are all past live pigs who were team mascots. It won’t take much time to see that pork plays an important role is all-things Saints baseball. Neighborhood 4 Lowertown is a fun area that boasts a large array of food and drink options, many within a few blocks of the ballpark. The Ox Cart Arcade & Rooftop offers up some great food options (try the loaded tots sampler!). You can come in and watch a game on one of their televisions, play some arcade games, or simply relax before or after the game. Big River Pizza is a great option for pizza fans and is one block west of CHS Field. The Buttered Tin is a terrific bakery that also offers up breakfast and sandwiches. It’s a good choice for a day game (they are open from 7-3 daily). CHS Field sits a few blocks from the Mississippi River and there are plenty of walking areas right next to it. The Minnesota Children’s Museum and Minnesota Museum of American Art are also within a mile of the ballpark. Fans 5 The Saints have given fans every reason to turn out and they certainly do. The fact that the team meets the expectations of regular fans above and beyond fielding a decent team makes the fans even more loyal, especially now with the Twins affiliation. As such, they are always engaged in the game and promotions, which makes the atmosphere even better. Access 4 With a full ballpark, there are always going to be some areas where getting around is slower than one would like. The team has done a very good job at trying to space things out well, keep lines moving, mark sections and restrooms well, and there are plenty of friendly employees and ushers that will help as well. Return on Investment 5 You can get in the ballpark for as little as $5 for berm seating. $6 will get you a bleacher seat. For reserved seating, the outfield reserve is $15, with infield reserved and home plate reserved being $18. The Capital Box seats (directly behind home plate) are the most expensive at $30. I’d avoid the Capital Box simply because the views are so great from the other seats, you can save a few bucks for food/drinks and not miss out on anything. Parking is available directly across the street but is a bit pricey at $20. Parking in the Union Depot parking lots will save $10 and is right around the corner from the ballpark entrance. Parking farther away will be even cheaper if walking a few blocks isn’t an issue. Combine the ticket and parking prices along with average food and drink prices and you get a huge bang for your buck when attending a Saints game. Extras 5 First and foremost, the City of Baseball Museum alone is worth the 5 stars here. The on-field promotions are more unique than most ballparks and the cast of unique characters that interact with the fans throughout the game provides a fun experience. CHS Field is trying to go green as much as possible. They collect runoff water to help irrigate the field and flush toilets. 12% of the electricity used comes from solar panels in left field and there are various recycling bins clearly marked throughout the park. The entire staff couldn’t be friendlier. From the ticket takers to the ushers to the concessions folks, everyone seems genuinely interested in making sure the fans have a good time. CHS Field is a mere 12 miles from the home of the Minnesota Twins, Target Field . With the major league affiliate being so close, there are opportunities to take in two games in the same day which is a fun option. Final Thoughts Moving to affiliated baseball in 2021 hasn’t changed what has always made CHS Field such a great place. From the employees, to the food, to the entertainment, to the amazing museum, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Memorial Stadium 701 E 17th St Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 52,626 Never Daunted In the history of Indiana University athletics, football has been not much more than what people did until basketball season started – it might be “the other football” (men's soccer) and their eight national championships that many of those in south central Indiana were more gravitated toward. Though Indiana football has seen pockets of success, it has been difficult for the program to build on it and keep that momentum going. The football Hoosiers enjoyed the bulk of their success under Bill Mallory, who guided Indiana to six bowl games in nine seasons during his thirteen-year tenure in Bloomington. The historic futility of Indiana football has impacted the overall support the program has seen, which in-turn impacts the game experience. The winds of success do seem to be shifting in Bloomington, however – the hiring of Curt Cignetti as the Hoosier’s head coach has seen a nearly immediate 180-degree turn in the program’s trajectory. The recent success on the field has energized the Indiana University community, as well as supporters near and far.   Food & Beverage   5 Heading into this season, improving food options at Memorial Stadium was a priority for enhancing the fan experience. A new concessions vender expanded options and brought in no less than four local Bloomington restaurants, including Social Cantina which offers walking nachos and ground beef tacos, as well as Aver’s Pizza. In addition, Yogi’s Bar and Grill serves smash burgers and grilled chicken sandwiches, while Buffa Louie’s, a Bloomington favorite since 1987, brings its signature wings in three flavors, along with a vegetarian version, along with their Italian beef sandwich, mozzarella sticks, and breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. Beyond these local favorites, food trucks provide additional variety, ranging from Latin dishes and BBQ to Mediterranean fare and classic American plates. Dessert options include Bloomington’s beloved Chocolate Moose ice cream and fresh cookies from Baked!, a late-night favorite. Everbowl also offers healthier choices like açaí bowls. With Coca-Cola soft drinks on offer, along with the typical assortment from Coors’ line of beers, there is also a solid selection of Bloomington craft beers from Upland Brewery, with their Dragonfly IPA, Wheat Ale, and Indiana University branded Hoosier Game Day lager. Vizzy hard seltzers and Happy Tuesdays spiked fruit drinks are also on hand. Concessions at Memorial Stadium are an example of fans asking for improvements and the powers that be listening to what the fans were asking for.   Atmosphere   3 A common mantra of Indiana football fans has been, “we may have lost the game, but we won the tailgate.” And while the success of the Hoosiers on the field appears to be turning, and the tailgate is no longer the only highlight of the day, the lots on the northern side of campus do provide a top tier tailgating experience that rivals many of those at larger, more traditional football powers. The paved lots around the football stadium and neighboring Simon-Skjodt (pronounced: Scott) Assembly Hall  are typically home to more sophisticated alumni gatherings, while students and more festive visitors populate the fields along 17th Street. Indiana Hoosiers Football Tailgating, Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey Three hours before kickoff, fans gather west of Simon-Skjodt Assembly Hall  for a pep rally featuring the IU cheer squads, the Red Steppers dance team, and members of the Indiana University Marching Hundred, in anticipation of the arrival of the Hoosiers team buses for the “Walk to the Rock.” Architecturally, Memorial Stadium has a striking resemblance to Wake Forest’s Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium   and Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium . Since 2005, Memorial Stadium has seen significant improvements that enclosed the stadium, starting with weight training and staff facilities at the north end of the stadium, followed on the south end in 2018 with the completion of The Excellence Academy. However, the east and west stands still feel a bit bare, with exposed walkways on both sides. Like many other schools at this level, the Hoosiers have a well-orchestrated pregame show featuring the Marching Hundred, a slew of Indiana Hoosier flags waved by the Indiana cheer squad, pyrotechnics, and an occasional flyover. Throughout the game, timeout entertainment has shifted toward more modern features, such as scoreboard ads, an in-house DJ, on-field contests, and giveaways. The Marching Hundred still provides musical highlights throughout the game, and there are also t raditions such as the playing of “National Emblem” on 1st downs, as well as snippets of the beloved fight song, “Indiana, Our Indiana,” after big plays to keep fans engaged. One of the big points of contention for Memorial Stadium regulars is the stadium sound system does not necessarily meet Power 4 standards; the sound can seem distorted and difficult to hear clearly. With the recent on-the-field successes of Indiana football, the only thing keeping the experience from moving to the next level is its consistency. All signs point to a continuation of the upward trajectory the football program has seen throughout this season, however, which in turn bodes well for continued improvements to the overall game day experience at Indiana.   Neighborhood   5 Memorial Stadium sits on the northern side of Indiana University’s campus, surrounded by athletic facilities, dorms, and off-campus apartments. While dining options nearby are limited, a few restaurants are within walking distance. The real center of Bloomington’s social scene is centered on Kirkwood Avenue, which runs from the iconic Sample Gates to Bloomington Square. Kirkwood is home to many of Bloomington’s apparel shops, restaurants, and bars. The most well-known of the eateries, Nick’s English Hut, provides a bit more of a mature bar experience , while Kilroy’s is a bit more student-orientated, and Upstairs Pub is a bit of a happy medium. A secondary cluster of bars and restaurants in proximity to downtown Bloomington Square includes Kilroy’s Sports, Yogi’s Bar and Grill, music joint The Bluebird, and Video Saloon, which is a popular spot for many of Bloomington’s locals. For those with a bit of a finer palette, they might want to visit to Oliver Winery just north of town, or make reservations at Janko’s Little Zagreb, which is renowned for their steaks.   Fans   3 For years, Indiana football struggled not only to win games, but also to draw fans from tailgates into Memorial Stadium. In the mid-2000s policies were even introduced to clear tailgating areas of non-attendees. The 2024 hiring of Curt Cignetti marked a turning point, bringing new expectations for both the program and the fan base – Coach even called out fans for the passive interest they showed, even after a 5-0 start, saying: “We need you there for the opening kick. We need you there in the stands being loud in the first quarter…And, most importantly, in the fourth…The tailgates can wait. The parties can wait. If you need to study, that can wait too.” Time will tell if the Hoosier fans support of Indiana football is here to stay. If the success of year one under Cignetti is any indication of future fan support of Indiana football, however, the increased attendance numbers and fan involvement in the game will only serve to improve the overall game atmosphere at Memorial Stadium.   Access   3 The completion of Interstate 69 connecting Evansville to Indianapolis made accessing Bloomington much easier than when it was just State Road 37, a divided highway, connecting the two cities. Coming from the east can be a bit more challenging, though, as two-lane rural State Road 46 can be a bit slow going. When typical attendance numbers fought to scrape into the lower end of 40,000, the facilities here were adequate to accommodate the crowd without much difficulty. Now though, with the norm bringing in 50,000+ fans per game, there certainly are new obstacles to consider – lines for bathrooms and concessions get extremely backed up, impeding the flow of those simply trying to navigate the concourse. Another challenge is that the stands do not have any sort of hand railings in the seating area, which certainly creates difficulties in navigating the stairs, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Indiana does all it can do to make getting to, around, and from the stadium as convenient as possible, but there definitely are some areas it could improve on. There has even been chatter about the possibility of expanding the stadium, which could help alleviate some of the backups, for example if the Easternmost confines of the stadium were pushed closer to the parking lots. At the moment, however, the long concession and bathroom lines, especially on the stadium’s eastern side, can create quite the hinderance for those simply trying to move about the stadium. On the plus side, though, recent trends indicate the Athletics department is listening to fans, and is focused on improving the overall fan experience at Memorial Stadium.   Return on Investment   4 This season, tickets for non-conference games start at $30, and go up to $45 for conference matchups. Time will tell if the Hoosiers recent success will see an increase in ticket prices going forward, but at the moment ticket prices do not seem exorbitant. Parking in lots around the stadium can get a bit pricey, but for early arrivers who are willing to walk, free parking is available in the Poplars Garage on the corner of 6th Street and N. Dunn Avenue. Shuttles to the stadium begin 2 hours prior to kick off and run 90 minutes following the game. With free parking on campus widely available, it adds another perk for savings that can be found in attending a football game at Indiana. Some value is lost however when it comes to concessions, specifically at the more traditional stands – paying $6 for a typical-sized hot dog does seem to be a bit much. The best food values seem to come from the local options; though they are a touch more expensive, the quality and portion sizes are worth the higher prices.   Extras   4 As legend goes, shortly after Terry Hoeppner was hired as head coach in 2005 he found a massive limestone boulder on campus; he had it moved and mounted at the north end of Memorial Stadium where the team would rub it for luck as they took the field. Hoeppner would pass away in 2007 and “The Rock” would take on a whole new meaning. Renamed “Hep’s Rock” in 2010, it would find a new home to start the 2024 season, just outside Memorial Stadium’s east entrance. This location makes “Hep’s Rock” accessible to all IU football fans, being located at the end of the Hoosiers “Walk to the Rock”, where they rub it for luck just before entering the stadium. Outside the north entrance of the facility is a statute of George Taliaferro, paying tribute to the first Black player drafted into the NFL. Memorial Stadium - George Taliaferro Statue, Photo by David Welch Between the stadium’s southern end and 17th Street, B-Town Boulevard is set up to give fans an area to play games, pose for photos, or listen to a rotating performance of musicians while grabbing a bite to eat and/or a drink from the nearby food trucks. The main level concourse around the north end of the stadium is home to the Hoosier Red Zone – during pregame this area is billed as a “family fun zone”, mainly geared towards children, to test their football, basketball, and soccer skills. Visitors can also get photos taken with an oversized IU football helmet or football, or with mannequins dressed in the complete collection of Indiana uniform styles. One of the interactive displays in this area is a partnership  between IU Sports Properties and Damar , a non-profit organization that supports people with Autism. The area includes color changing lights, textures, audio inputs, and noise canceling headphones, along with a 10,000-piece Lego wall to help fans who struggle with sensory overload and may need a bit of a reset.   Final Thoughts In what might have previously best been described as a morgue of college football, Memorial Stadium has seen a remarkable turnaround fueled simply by winning, as well as a new head coach who has expectations of excellence not just from players, but from the University’s community as well. If the current trend of success for Indiana football continues, expect the game atmosphere here to only continue to improve, with an extremely festive atmosphere fed by a long anticipated winning product on the field. On the other hand, if for whatever reason Hoosier football were to revert back to its historic inconsistencies, it certainly would be a major blow to the progress seen on the gridiron in Bloomington.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Sleeman Centre 50 Woolwich St Guelph, ON N1H 3V1 Guelph Storm website Sleeman Centre website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 4,715 Storm City Hat Tricks The Hat Trick was born in Guelph, Ontario.  In the 1940s, the Guelph entry in the OHA was sponsored by the Biltmore Hat Company of Guelph.  The team was known as the Guelph Biltmores, and eventually the Guelph Biltmore Mad Hatters.  The Biltmore Hat Company rewarded any player scoring three or more goals in one game with their choice of hat from their factory and the term “Hat Trick” was born. Guelph was a hotbed for hockey with teams at the Junior A level, and eventually Major Junior, from the 1930s right through to 1989 when the Guelph Platers moved to Owen Sound.  The current Guelph Storm franchise was originally the Toronto Marlboros who were founded in 1904.  In 1989, the original Marlies moved to Hamilton for two horrible seasons as the Dukes before heading to Guelph to become the Storm in 1991.  Home for the Storm is the Sleeman Centre.  Opened in 2000 as the Guelph Sports and Entertainment Centre, the arena was deemed necessary after the departure of the Platers.  The former Guelph Eaton’s Centre was chosen as the location after the closuring of the anchor tennant Eaton’s department store.  The arena was built right where the store was located and remnants of the mall remain surrounding the arena.  In 2007, local purveyor of fine beer, Sleeman Breweries purchased the naming rights for the arena and are contracted to remain the title sponsor of the arena until 2030. Food & Beverage 4 There are a number of concession options in the Sleeman Centre.  Pretzels, popcorn, hot dogs and pizza are all on the menu.  Candy and ice cream can be found at a few of the stands also.  Some more unique choices include the authentic Roman Pizza at the Penalty Box or some of the huge selection of confections at the Candy Counter.  Coca-cola products are the soda of the Sleeman Centre and water, coffee, tea and hot chocolate are among the soft drinks available.  Sleeman products are available at the beer stands.  Draught Picks Tap House and Grill is a full service bar at the south side of the arena and is also an option for fans. Atmosphere 4 The Sleeman Centre is a unique facility as it is built inside a shopping mall.  As a result, the majority of fans will not enter through the main doors on Woolwich Street.   Parking entrances off of Macdonell Street having fans enter through the south side or through the Old Quebec Shoppes, the remnants of the mall, is far more popular.  That being said, the front exterior of the Sleeman Centre is attractive with light siding and tinted windows.  It is not a hulking structure, and is almost inconspicuous from the front.  Entering the front or through the mall will take fans to the main staircase, which is essentially under the arena.  Fans will pass by the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame  which offers a number of interesting entrants including George McPhee, Todd Hlushko, and John Cullen.  Guelph also has a history of providing officials to the NHL including Bill McCreary, Ray Scapinello, Terry Gregson and Ron Asselstine. Patrons will ascend the stairs to the second level, which is the main entry to the arena.  The concourse around the seating bowl is not very wide, so getting there early for some exploring is the best idea.  The ice at the Sleeman Centre is oriented from west to east with entry to the concourse coming from the south side.  The north side is going to provide the perfect centre-ice logo picture.  The concourses offer a few interesting tidbits worth checking out.  Each of the section numbers offers a list of players who wore that number for the Storm over the years.  For example, the sign for Section 105 offers a list of all Storm players who donned the number 5.  There are pillars in the concourse listing Storm players who have played for Canada or other countries in the World Junior Hockey Championships and the debut date and team for all former Storm players who played in the NHL.  These items were formerly listed on the second level, at the east end, which has been replaced by huge ads.  Also of note in the concourse are Storm team pictures over the years and the retired jersey of Paul Fendley, who died in 1972 and was a member of the Guelph CMC’s, a Junior A precursor to the Storm in Guelph.  Above the ice is a four-sided videoboard with top and bottom ribbon rings and a simple scoreclock.  The fascia of the second level, which is home to the club seats and luxury boxes, has a full, 360 degree ribbon board.  The rafters are littered with banners.  The retired numbers of Jeff O’Neill, Todd Bertuzzi and Ryan Callahan hang with that of Paul Fendley.  Among the many Division and Conference banners fans will find banners for the 1998, 2004, 2014 and 2019 J. Ross Robertson Cups as OHL Champions and the 1952 Guelph Biltmore Mad Hatters Memorial Cup Championship and 1986 Guelph Platers Memorial Cup Championship. The gameday production is not uncommon for an OHL franchise.  DJ KToss runs the music selection from the Storm Stage, at the east end on the second level and he also participates in promotions.  Mascots Spyke and Stormy aid in promotions and interact with the crowd.  Neighbourhood 4 The Sleeman Centre is located in Downtown Guelph.  There are a number of spots for pre and post game food and drink in the area.  Some choices include 1881 Steakhouse, McCabes, NV Kitchen, Royal Electric, La Cucina, Baker Street Station and The Wooly Pub.  Fans looking for more sports in the area may want to consider heading to the University of Guelph where the Gryphons play football at Alumni Stadium , hockey at Gryphon Centre Arena  and basketball at the Guelph Gryphons Athletic Centre .  During the summer, the Guelph Royals  compete in the IBL.  Non sporting options may include seeing something at the River Run Centre, on the opposite side of Woolwich Street, or taking a tour at the Sleeman Brewery in Guelph. For fans wishing to stay in Downtown Guelph, the Royal Inn and Suites and Western Hotel, may be of interest. Fans 4 The Guelph Storm have a very strong following.  At the time of writing, in the 2024-2025 season, the Storm are averaging over 4,500 fans per game.  The previous season they averaged over 4,700 fans per game, which is near capacity.  They normally rank 4th or 5th in the OHL in attendance.  Fans are knowledgeable and supportive of the team, although not overly boisterous, common for Southern Ontario sports fans.   Access 4 Getting to the Sleeman Centre is not terribly difficult.  The Sleeman Centre is located in Downtown Guelph between Woolwich Street and MaDonnell Street.  The confluence of Highways 6 and 7 is less than four kilometers from the arena, and getting there should not be too difficult.  Most fans are heading to the parking garages off of McDonnell Street, so the intersection of Woolwich and MacDonnell can be a challenge closer to puck drop.  There are a few parking garages downtown, so finding a spot should not be an issue.  For fans wishing to take public transit, the Guelph Transit Station is less than a block away.  Fans should check out the Guelph Transit  website for fares, maps and schedules.  Security and Covid restrictions are constantly changing in Ontario.  Stadium Journey encourages all fans to check with the Guelph Storm and Sleeman Centre websites for up to date security information. Getting around the Sleeman Centre can be a bit of a challenge as the concourses are not huge.  Intermission times are particularly bad and lines for the washrooms then can be long.  The stairs from the Old Quebec Street Mall may present issues for those with mobility issues. Stadium Journey acknowledges that security protocols are constantly changing.  Stadium Journey encourages fans to consult the Guelph Storm and Sleeman Centre  websites before heading out for the most up-to-date security protocols including prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Guelph Storm are $30 for a regular seat, with discounts for students, seniors and children.  Club seats are $37 and come with seat service.  Tickets are a little expensive compared to other teams in the OHL.  Parking in the garages on site will cost $5 and concession prices are what one would expect. The product on the ice is very high quality and fans will definitely enjoy their trip to the Sleeman Centre Extras 4 An extra mark for the Storm Chasers Booster Club. An extra mark for the City of Guelph and their excellent use of a downtown structure to incorporate OHL hockey.  An extra mark for the Guelph tradition of honouring players who score a hat trick with a Biltmore hat. An extra mark for the intense rivalry with the Kitchener Rangers. Final Thoughts The Guelph Storm are probably not the first team thought of when regaling others with tales of the Ontario Hockey League, however, the Storm have been a solid franchise throughout their duration and their home, the Sleeman Centre, is a solid hockey venue.  Storm City is worth checking out and fans should definitely consider a trip to Guelph for some OHL hockey and maybe even a hat trick. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Dylan McLean, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Herb Brooks National Hockey Center One Herb Brooks Way St. Cloud, MN 56301 St. Cloud State Huskies website Herb Brooks National Hockey Center website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 5,159 Huskies Hockey For years, the state of Minnesota was home to only two Division 1 Men’s Hockey programs: the University of Minnesota, and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. For a state that had long been viewed as the heart of amateur hockey in the U.S., this didn’t seem right…Herb Brooks agreed. Just like his former coach at the University of Minnesota, and the “Godfather” of Minnesota hockey John Mariucci had done, Brooks strongly advocated for creating more opportunities for hockey players in his home state of Minnesota. In 1986, when he was only six years removed from leading the U.S. Olympic Hockey team to its Miracle gold medal, Brooks made the unusual decision to walk away from the myriad of professional coaching opportunities that his gold medal reputation afforded him, and accepted the position of head coach at Division II St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. St. Cloud had been very successful at the Div. II level and was looking to make the jump to Division 1, and after only one season at the helm of the SCSU hockey team, Brooks helped them cross the finish line. After that single season, Herb Brooks moved on to the NHL, and the St. Cloud State men’s hockey team moved up to the Division 1 level. Having a third D1 team in the state which, year after year produces the most D1 hockey players, provided exactly the opportunities that Brooks and Mariucci had envisioned. It didn’t take long for SCSU to establish itself as a viable alternative to the U of M and UMD in the minds of recruits. From its initial season at the D1 level, SCSU fielded competitive hockey teams that could hold their own against the heavyweight programs in the old WCHA. With the shift to the NCHC around a decade ago, it’s done nothing to lessen SCSU’s success on the ice, as they played in their first national title game in 2021. The National Hockey Center, as it was originally known upon opening in 1989, has been home ice for the SCSU Huskies since their move to Division 1. Considered as one of the top college hockey facilities in the country when it first opened, the university has spent significant money on upgrades in recent years to ensure that the facility keeps that reputation. In 2011, SCSU paid homage to the man whose impact on American hockey, and St. Cloud State’s program in particular, is still felt to this day, by renaming the NHC as the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center. Food & Beverage 4 There are multiple concession stands within the narrow concourse of the Herb, with most offering common fare like chips for $3, water $4, meat and cheese tray $6, along with Domino’s Pizza slices for $4, and parmesan and cinna bites each for $6. I also took note of individual food stands selling Jupiter Moon ice cream cones, and Crumbl cookies. On one end of the arena concourse a room serves as the Warming House bar, serving alcoholic drinks and a few snacks. Miller Lite’s go for $7, White Claws for $9, or if you prefer wine, a glass of Cabernet, Chardonnay, or Moscato runs $7, or $9 if you want it in a commemorative SCSU glass. For a college hockey arena, the National Hockey Center has all the food and beverage options you’ll need, and a few you may not, to get you through the game. Atmosphere 4 Despite the massive changes that NIL has brought to the NCAA, there is one aspect of college athletics that all of the money in pro sports can never buy; atmosphere (sense of ownership fans have with the team). There’s something about a boisterous student section leading cheers against the opposition, while the student band breaks into song during tv timeouts or between periods, that separates college athletes from their counterparts in the pros. St. Cloud State has both, and they are fully engaged in the action on the ice from beginning to end. With Husky hockey being the premier entertainment option in St. Cloud, there appears to be a pretty solid base of season ticket holders judging by the amount of older fans, and families with kids throughout the stands. The SCSU student band was on hand to score the soundtrack for the evening, and from the national anthem until the final buzzer, their presence added that extra something that makes the atmosphere at college hockey games so unique. St. Cloud solidified itself as a college hockey town when the program moved to the Division 1 level, and after having success from day one, the fans have turned out year after year to support the Huskies and create one of the best atmospheres in college hockey. While Husky Hockey undoubtedly continues to be the hottest ticket in town, it must have cooled a bit prior to my recent visit since the game wasn’t a sellout. Having been to many games at “the Herb” over the years, I’ve experienced first-hand the charged up atmosphere created by thousands of Husky faithful cheering their team on, and I’d rate it Elite. With Boston College and it’s typical roster of future NHL stars making an extremely rare foray into central Minnesota for a weekend series with the Huskies, I was anticipating a full house, and for that same electric atmosphere to be pulsating throughout the Herb like I’ve felt before. I’d say it was about 85% of the way there on this night, and that’s the only reason I’m giving the Herb a 4 instead of a 5 for atmosphere. The several thousand fans who were at the game still did a great job at creating a fun and exciting atmosphere; but the empty seats on a night where there should have been none, is what kept it from being the elite atmosphere I’ve come to know. Neighborhood 3 It’s not that the neighborhood surrounding “the Herb” is bad, it’s just….forgettable. The arena is situated a few steps from what used to be the university’s football stadium, before dropping the program several years ago, which sits high on the banks of the Mississippi river. The rest of the area surrounding the Hockey Center is made up of numerous apartment buildings, single family homes, and not much else. Unless there’s a game happening, the neighborhood is quiet and residential. When the university was drawing up the plans for the National Hockey Center, It’s clear that pre and post-game entertainment options were not a consideration. The idea of utilizing arenas and stadiums as anchors for larger shopping and entertainment hubs, or neighborhood redevelopment, wasn’t yet in vogue in 1989 when the Herb was built, so you can’t necessarily fault them for it. Unless you live in the neighborhood, the only reason most people will have for being in the area is to attend a Huskies game, and that’s fine, as it’s a great place to see a game. Not far away from the Herb there are plenty of options for a pre-game meal, with MC’s Dugout Bar & Grill and the Pickled Loon being among my go-to places. If you’re looking for post-game action to celebrate a Huskies win, downtown St. Cloud has you covered. The Red Carpet Nightclub can be fun, but its clientele skews to the younger side, so if you’re like me and still think of 90’s alternative music as being “current,” then the Blue Goose or Beaudreau’s Bar might be more your style. Fans 4 Husky fans consistently turn out to watch their team, especially when teams like the Gophers or North Dakota come to town and it’s standing room only. The student section is always filled and ready to lead cheers and taunt opposing players. On this night though, despite playing a top 5 team in the nation in Boston College, the arena was around 80% full. I don’t believe that this was indicative of Husky fans lack of interest though, but more so because they were playing a Hockey East team that they had no ties to, and little history with. The rivalries between D1 hockey teams in the Midwest are intense and are circled on the calendar of every fan at the start of each season. The fans still come out by the thousands no matter who the opponent may be, and that was definitely the case on this night against Boston College. The fans who were there were treated to a tight game and were on the edge of their seats right up to the final buzzer, as St. Cloud fought to tie the game up. The bottom line is that St. Cloud State has established itself as a college hockey powerhouse, and that could not have happened without getting the consistent support from students and local hockey fans who continue to attend games year after year. Access 4 Coming from the Twin Cities, you’ll take I-94 all the way to St. Cloud where you’ll take Exit 171 and turn right onto County Rd. 75/Roosevelt Rd. Drive for 1.6 miles and turn right onto 33 rd St. S, where you’ll go 2 miles and then turn right onto 15 th St. S. Take a left on 3 rd Ave. S. and you’ll arrive at the Herb. There are several parking lots right in front of the arena, as well as on-street parking in the nearby neighborhood. Return on Investment 3 Standard bench seats cost $20, while the more expensive chairback seats are $35 to $45. Even when going with the cheaper seats, you can’t go wrong as there is not a bad seat in the house. The price of the chairback seats does get a bit out of the average college student’s budget, but those are typically bought up by corporations and well-to-do alumni anyways. When $20 gets you the opportunity to watch two of the top ranked college hockey teams in the country live and in person, it’s a pretty solid deal. One of the big draws to college hockey fans is the affordability factor. With a night at an NHL game easily costing several hundred dollars for you and a date, you can attend a college game with many of tomorrow's NHL players for under $100. Extras 3 An interesting fact about the Herb that most people attending Husky games don’t ever see, is that it has a second ice sheet within the building. If you’re able to look past where the Zamboni enters and exits the ice, you’ll see that it leads into a space that’s just big enough to fit another sheet of ice. SCSU uses this as a practice sheet, but also rents it out to the local youth hockey association. Final Thoughts St. Cloud is a hockey town and the Huskies are their team. The move to Division One back in the late 80’s put St. Cloud on the map in a sense. Instead of being just another Midwest college town, St. Cloud became a Midwest college town with a hockey team playing at the highest level, and a successful one at that. Over the years, SCSU has found a home in the upper echelon of college hockey teams, competing for top recruits and playoff glory year after year. The National Hockey Center was a beauty right from the start, but in recent years they’ve enhanced it even more as can be seen in the beautiful entryway that was added several years ago. Renaming the facility to honor the legendary Herb Brooks was a nice touch. It was so nice in fact, that even Gopher fans didn’t complain about it, despite Brooks only having been at SCSU for a single year and Minnesota for eight. St. Cloud State and hockey fit together perfectly, and the game has given just as much back to the town and university, as they’ve put in. The Herb is a beautiful facility with passionate fans, and their relationship shows no signs of faltering anytime soon.

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Kaiser Permanente Arena 140 Front St Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Map It Santa Crus Warriors website Kaiser Permanente Arena website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 2,505 Sea Dubs Right down Highway 17 and near the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz, California resides an unassuming-looking metal barn. But don’t judge something by its outward appearance. Once you step inside, KP Arena (Kaiser Permanente Arena) is anything but unassuming.  Amazingly, it was built in just 78 days between September and December of 2012 for just $3.5 million, opening just two days before Christmas 2012 with a Santa Cruz Warriors win over the Bakersfield Jam. The arena proved to be an instant draw, cashing in on 39 sellouts in its first 53 games. The arena is used for much more than the Santa Cruz Warriors (who are locally known as the “Sea Dubs”). It also serves as the home arena for the UC Santa Cruz men’s and women’s basketball, has hosted team USA’s FIBA World Cup games and, due to the coronavirus causing wide ranging restrictions in Santa Clara County, was home to Stanford University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams for several games during the 2020-2021 season. Speaking of COVID-19, it even served as a vaccination hub in early 2021.  Still, what most endears fans to this simple arena is the Sea Dubs. To date, the Golden State Warriors G-League affiliate has just one championship under its belt, in 2015, but what it lacks in championships it makes up for in heart and community. Night after night, throngs of supporters pack KP Arena to capacity and applaud as their beloved Sea Dubs battle for supremacy while trying to prove themselves to the rest of the NBA. After all, every game is an audition for bigger and better things for each of these young men.  Food & Beverage 3 The arena serves all of the usuals as well as locally brewed craft beer. They ingeniously neglect to label the prices for the food mart, rightfully thinking that once a customer seizes the item and brings it to the cashier that their minds will have already been made up (or maybe that’s just the case for this particular writer!).  The food is pretty standard arena fare with warm pretzels and nachos. Interestingly, despite it being so close to the Pacific Ocean, none of their food is inspired by the sea. Atmosphere 3 From the outside, KP Arena looks like a metal barn. Inside is a different story as it’s filled with activity and vibrancy. Hired rooters romp, stomp and cajole the crowd to cheer louder and louder. It’s a special feeling knowing that you contributed to the outcome of a game just by stomping your feet on the bleachers. Three of the four sections that surround the court are plastic-covered bleachers (which is much better than unforgiving metal) with a smattering of fold-down seats in front. There is a good-sized video board that features each squad’s starting lineup. Interestingly, there are two disco balls that hang on either end of the court. Perhaps the operators of the facility want to be prepared for any schools that want to hold dances there? Neighborhood 3 While it can get crowded, this part of Santa Cruz is safe, friendly and scrumptious, with several well-regarded restaurants scattered throughout town. Just a little over a mile north of KP Arena and across the San Lorenzo River on 1020 Ocean Street is Marianne’s Ice Cream , long regarded as one of the best ice cream shops in Santa Cruz County and quite possibly all of Silicon Valley.   Marianne's Ice Cream, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Marianne’s is far from the only well-regarded restaurant in town. Just down Front Street from the arena is Pizza My Heart and Oswald Restaurant. If you’re in the mood for a quick tour of a museum, then the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (also on Front Street, just past Oswald Restaurant) just might be for you.  There are numerous hotels throughout the city, including two right on nearby Cowell Beach, the Sea & Sand Inn and the Dream Inn, each boasting a three-star rating. They are both within walking distance of the famed Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . Fans 3 The arena is about 90% capacity on most nights, with the majority of fans sitting in their seats the whole game. All through the contest, hired rooters liven up the crowd, implying the fans to cheer louder and louder. It truly gives the arena an electricity that all teams hope for. Access 3 At $2 an hour, parking is very cheap near KP Arena. Most of the parking garages and parking lots roll with that price and are within half a mile from the arena. There are bus stops all along Front Street, including one right in front of the arena. There is a bag check and metal detector at the entrance. The concourse can get pretty crowded at halftime as the food is good enough to draw quite a crowd. There are handrails at the ready for those that need assistance getting to the top of their section. While the bathrooms are small, they are well lit, clean and all essentials are in good shape. Return on Investment 3 The bleachers behind the basket are just $35 and while they are not padded, the plastic covering is certainly better than the unforgiving metal that often greets guests at other venues. The most expensive seats in the arena come with armrests and they usually go for around $60. As they say, you get what you pay for and whether it’s $35 or $60, the overall experience pays for itself. With the Sea Dubs’ mascot, a giant turtle named Mav’Rik, roaming around the arena taking selfies with fans and riling up the crowd along with the hired rooters, it certainly feels like a family-friendly atmosphere. Extras 1 At the game of this review, there were not a lot of extras, but after the game, the organization allowed fans to stick around and attempt free throws. I’m not sure if this is a regular occurrence, but the lines were quite long, so obviously this was a popular extra. Final Thoughts All in all, this is a very good environment to watch a basketball game. With NBA tickets being so very expensive these days, the G-League offers an excellent source of excitement in the sport as each player on both squads gives their all to reach the bigger league.

Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Chicago White Sox will no longer play at Guaranteed Rate Field but at the newly named Rate Field. The name change was made to coincide with the mortgage company Guaranteed Rate changing its name to Rate Field this past year. The team announced the name change on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday evening. The Southside ballpark had been called Guaranteed Rate Field since November 1, 2016, when the company purchased a 13-year naming deal. The ballpark was known as U.S. Cellular Field (AKA “The Cell”)  from January 2003 until November 2016 and Comiskey Park from 1991 until 2003, like its predecessor that stood across the street from 1910-1990. Meanwhile, the ball club is contemplating a relocation to a proposed new stadium in “The 78” development on the South Loop, a 62-acre parcel of land that offers stunning views of the city skyline and what hopes to be the 78th official community area of Chicago. Stadium Journey has visited the stadium on multiple occasions in the past few years and has provided favorable reviews of the home of the White Sox. The ballpark experience includes a wide selection of regional foods, over 100 craft beers, social areas, and tailgating space before the game. Read more about it here . ------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo courtesy of Dave Campbell's Texas Football Growing up in Texas, many of us are introduced to two distinct versions of the “Bible” – there is the one revered worldwide across virtually all Christian religions, and there is the one found on the desks of every football coach from Amarillo to Brownsville, Beaumont to El Paso, and all points in between. The latter would be Dave Campbell’s Texas Football   (DCTF). For those who are completely unaware, football – especially high school football – is a pretty big deal here in Texas. DCTF is THE source for high school (and now college) football in the state; they are the official record keepers, the official ranking authorities, and the official scouting and recruiting gatekeepers. The magazine, the website, the podcasts, and the YouTube channel are all very big deals. Head Coaches, Sports Information Directors, and Athletics Directors at every level of competition understand what a mention by DCTF can mean for their schools, programs, and players. In the past decade or so, DCTF has really expanded its reach into college football. With Texas having the most Division I college teams of any state in the country, and with recruiting in the state becoming such a massive cultural touchpoint in sports media, DCTF brought on a dedicated college football writer to cover the state of Texas college football. Enter Mike Craven, current Senior Writer with DCTF and now at the tail end of his fourth season as the college football writer. Craven brings a strong background as a sportswriter for numerous newspapers in Texas, including the award-winning Austin American-Statesman . As the 2023-24 season approached, the state of Texas would be fielding a 13th FBS-level football program – far and away the most of any state in the nation. And with the college football season set to now have 13 weeks, the germ of an idea formed for Craven – from it, the Dave Campbell’s Guide to Texas College Football  was born. Craven pitched the idea to his bosses about traveling to the best game in the state each week for each team. He’d talk about the teams’ histories, the stadiums, what makes each city and town unique, and what makes this all unique to Texas. Photo courtesy of Mike Craven I spoke to Mike recently with the regular season all wrapped up, and the madness about to begin for 2024-25 postseason play.   EM:  Thanks for talking with me today, Mike. I’ve read your work for a long time now. For the readers who aren’t familiar with you or with DCTF, can you explain your role there and what it’s all about? MC:  My job is to cover the 13 FBS teams in the state of Texas, and kind of lead the direction of how we cover all 48 [college football] teams in the state of Texas. That’s writing, podcasting, we do some videos. I look at [it] as, for high school, we have our footing there as kind of the premiere high school site in Texas. My job is to raise the college coverage to that level.   EM:  Perfect. Let’s talk about the book. Where did the idea for it come from and how did you go about pitching this to your editors? MC:  I kind of look at everything within my job on if it’s cool. If I’m like ‘hey, do I want to write this story or go on this assignment.’ The first thing I ask myself is ‘is this cool?’ I’ve always just tried to follow stuff that I think is interesting and my job is then to take that thing and present in an interesting way to everyone else. When I realized that Sam Houston State  was moving up [from the FCS level to the FBS level], and there’s 13 weeks in a season, to be honest, I thought it was just a way for me to do something that was fun. That’s go to a different stadium every single week and be the first person to do that in the state of Texas, because there’s no way to have done that before. For me, it was just a way to check off a bucket list item and have a fun year. The way I thought I could pull that off was to pitch it as a coffee table book to commemorate [this first season with 13], while also making it a history of the programs across the state.   EM:  As someone who travels to stadiums across the state on just a part-time basis, I’m curious how you were able to pull the logistics of that season and do your full-time job with DCTF. How were you able to coordinate that kind of schedule? MC:  Luckily, I’ve been on the job for a couple of years and know all the [sports information directors], I know all the coaches, and I have what I consider to be great relationships with all these schools. So, I just made a spreadsheet of every single schedule. Put them all next to each other, week 1, week, 2, etc. Then I just isolated the six or seven games that I just had to go to. These were big times games, like Oregon at Texas Tech , Deion starting the season at TCU , those type of games. Also, Alabama at Texas A&M , those kinds of games were the ones I built the schedule around. Big games where the stadiums were full and that would provide the type of atmosphere to write about. I just came up with what I thought was a solid schedule. It was a lot of fun. It was tiring, but everybody accommodated me pretty well. No big hiccups along the way.   EM:  What surprised you on your visits? MC:  That’s a good question. I didn’t go anywhere that I hadn’t been. I’ve been to all of these stadiums before. I’ve talked to all of these coaches and been to all of these cities before. I guess the thing that continuously surprised me was, and I guess I already knew this, but this set it into stone, was that this state is humongous. What that leads to is a uniqueness and a certain culture in all of these pockets of the state that is hard to explain to outsiders. Being in El Paso and being in Huntsville is being on two different planets. Being in Houston and being in Lubbock is two different planets. Austin and Waco, they’re only an hour and a half away [and] are just different. It always fascinates me at just how different and unique the communities are within the state of Texas and that also holds true for the cities that are home to our biggest universities.   EM:  What about the atmosphere and the tailgating scenes? Who really stood out to you on your visits? MC:  I think A&M is the best place to go watch a football game. Their insistence on tradition is fun. I grew up going to Texas Longhorns  games because my grandfather was the rehab specialist for UT since Darrell K. Royal was there. If you go to a Texas game now compared to when I was a kid, it’s a completely different thing. None of the songs, except for the ones that are school oriented, are the same. The marching is different. Everything is different. At A&M, everything is the same. You feel like you could be experiencing something that your grandfather or great-grandfather could have experienced. They show up for New Mexico State the same way they show up for Alabama, and there’s something cool about that. I think Lubbock and Tech is probably the most underrated spot in the state, especially if you get to a big-time night game. And, El Paso is near and dear to my heart. The Sun Bowl  can’t be beat, and the food outside of UTEP football games is probably the best that I came across.   EM:  Great stuff, Mike. Where can people find the book? MC: Yeah, you can find it at texasfootball.com . We only published 3,000, so we’re kind of limited now. Come find me on Twitter  or my social media stuff and we’ll get you figured out.

Photos Courtesy of Stadium Vagabond Fair Grounds Field in Shreveport, Louisiana, is crumbling. It was the home of minor league baseball for decades but has been left filthy and coated with bat droppings. Last month, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux signed a contract to demolish the stadium, signaling the death knell for the 38-year-old stadium. According to the Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate , the cost to tear it down is $334,000, much less than any plans to revitalize the deteriorating structure. It would have been razed two years ago if not for a lawsuit filed by the Friends of Fair Grounds Field. They were concerned about the possibility of hazardous bat guano with nearby residents. A cauldron of bats made the ballpark home and covered it with droppings, creating dust that contains microscopic spores that can cause histoplasmosis. The not-for-profit group had plans to convert it to a year-round stadium for youth and community activities, but the plans were deemed too expensive by Arceneaux. It was a big risk to turn the former ballpark into a space for youth sports. There was also a plan with REV Entertainment to revitalize the entire fairgrounds property with an entertainment complex with a multipurpose stadium, restaurants, a hotel, and possible housing options. Photos Courtesy of Stadium Vagabond Fair Grounds Field opened in 1986 as the home of the Shreveport Captains of the Texas League. The Captains were the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. The ballpark held 5,300, and 183,560 people came through the turnstiles, including 7,213 people on opening night.  The design of the stadium was very much for its time, with two large concrete stands down each baseline and the press and covered luxury boxes directly behind home plate. Within a few years, this design of a baseball stadium would be obsolete in the minor leagues. The team changed its name to the Swamp Dragons in the final two seasons before being sold to Mandalay Entertainment and renamed the Frisco Rough Riders in 2003. They drew 59,316 and 24,560, respectively, in the last two years. Baseball continued with the Shreveport Sports of the independent Central Baseball League, later renamed the Shreveport-Bossier Captains in 2009. However, the second version of the Captains relocated to Laredo, Texas, after the 2011 season. Photos Courtesy of Stadium Vagabond There were plans to bring a summer collegiate baseball team to the ballpark in 2012, but those plans never materialized. The ballpark was left to rot and fall in squalid conditions after plans floated around on what to do with the structure. However, like many other ballparks, the best option is to knock it down.  Many have splendid memories of attending games, and others are sad to see them go. There are no plans to build a modern ballpark or to bring a professional or summer collegiate baseball team to Shreveport in the foreseeable future.  Any opportunity to save Fair Grounds Field is now moot; it is quickly crumbling down by wreckage crews. Then again, it has slowly been crumbling down for over a decade. Photos Courtesy of Stadium Vagabond ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitte r @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey You are not alone if you have never heard of a Spanish dog. The spicy, tangy sauce does not originate from Spain but was created somewhere in the United States. However, it has a strong connection with the city of Logansport, Indiana, making it possibly the “Spanish Dog Capital of the World.” Various locations serve a Spanish dog, from drive-in root beer stands to sit-down restaurants. All prepare their sauces daily and with secret recipes. The tomatoey sauce resembles a coney or chili sauce--but don’t dare call it that--it is Spanish sauce, and that is how it’s been as far as anyone remembers. Brenda Graham has been one of the owners of Brenda and Kim’s B&K West for almost 40 years and produces close to 40 pounds of the sauce. She has never known any other name for the meat sauce that is ladled over anywhere from 3,500 to 3,800 hot dogs on a busy day. “It was called that when I worked at B&K 40 years ago. I’m thinking the name comes from the fact that it doesn’t have beans; it’s not chili sauce. That is just speculation. I honestly have no idea why it is called that.” The Berry Bowl menu offers Spanish sauce on hot dogs and nachos. The uber-regional style of hot dogs can be traced back to 1935 to a Hastings, Nebraska, story in The Morning Spotlight where it mentioned that Spanish hot dogs were served following an American Red Cross meeting. The following year an advertisement in the Kokomo Tribune highlighted that it was “now in Kokomo for the first time” at an Izzy & Don restaurant on 1510 North Washington Street. The ad ended by telling readers: “They’re different. They’re good. Take a sack home.” The connection to Logansport started in 1937 with several ads in the Pharos-Tribune newspaper archives online. There are at least 38 different mentions of independent shops: long-lost establishments included, Ricci’s, Logan Double Dip Shop, Butch’s Bar-B-Que, Lenon’s, Klinck Drive Inn, and The Spanish Hot Dog Stand on Eighteenth and Market Streets. The hot dogs cost a nickel. The sauce was also sold at grocery stores to prepare at home with ground beef. They were then popular at various eateries 30 minutes away in Kokomo. After World War II, a popular root beer stand would popularize the Spanish dog in the Midwest. Melvin and Mary Bergerson launched the first B&K Root Beer Drive-In in Wabash, Indiana, in 1940. It soon expanded and reached a peak of 238 independently owned establishments in neighboring Michigan and Ohio. The locations were also known for homemade draft root beer served in a frosty mug. According to The Great American Hot Dog Book, Mary “devised the special B&K Spanish sauce recipe” that was a milder version of a coney sauce at the Wabash, Indiana, location. Many believed that Mary coined the name to describe its sweet, tangy, and somewhat spicy flavor profiles that may have included some of the B&K homemade root beer. However, the name had been used since at least 1937 in Logansport and sold well before the first B-K location opened in 1940. The Spanish sauce is not a sauce but a combination of hamburger meat and tomato sauce, or ketchup, along with spices and onions. An item called the Spanish burger was sold in parts of the country as early as 1912, and it is most likely that someone ladled it over a hot dog soon after, adopting the name. Due to the popularity of B-K stands, many other chains began developing their versions throughout the state during the 1950s and 1960s. However, in Logansport, it spread to other non-B-K stands that continue to sell them to this day. The Sycamore Drive-In is known for its ice cream creations but has its version of the Spanish sauce. The Sycamore Drive-In has been offering them on its menus for over 70 years; the restaurant is known for its homemade custard, along with attractive items named coffee whip and tally ho. “The name Spanish sauce has been around since the time we opened in 1948, and we have stuck with it since then,” stated owner Bailey Graham, his sauce is slightly different from other locations. “Just like certain regions of the U.S. people refer to Spanish dogs as coney dogs, we have always referred to them as Spanish dogs.” The Spanish dog is prevalent in Logansport, and one can choose from other locations: Mr. Happy Burger, Charr-Bett Drive-In, and the Bob-O Link Drive-In, a few miles north in Royal Center. The home of the Logansport High School basketball team, the Berry Bowl even has a homemade recipe that is uncommon for a high school concession stand. The volunteer staff stated that it’s one of its best sellers, but many come from out of town and ask about the sauce and its name. “Growing up, I just figured everyone said Spanish dogs,” added Logansport basketball coach Steve Isaacs.” We had two B&K stands in Logansport, and they called them that too. A lot of people here have their special recipes for Spanish sauce.” Is there a difference between coney sauce and Spanish sauce, since they are used interchangeably at many B-K locations? According to Titus Ruscitti, who runs his website Smokin’ Chokin’ and Chowing with the King, there is a difference. “Most Spanish sauces I’ve tried have more tomatoey than most coney sauces. It is the same thing with chili in the Midwest. It’s always very tomatoey. I would say they’re different. I’ve mostly only seen Spanish sauce in Indiana. I know there are spots in Ohio, but I see it regularly in the area a little north of Central Indiana but a little south of NW Indiana.” Gene's is located 75 miles southwest of Logansport in Anderson, Indiana, but uses the term Spanish Hot Dog. A handful of B&K locations are open from March to October in Muncie, Peru, Marion, Kokomo, Wabash, and Troy, Ohio, that feature either a Spanish or coney dog on its old-fashioned menu boards with a few exceptions. The Wabash location offers both sauces for its hot dogs, but according to staff members, it is the Spanish sauce that is more popular. The Rochester and Troy locations refer to the two sauces by the same name. The Kokomo location uses the term coney dogs. The name was not coined, but popularized at B-K locations after World War II; it became a popular item in various locations in the Midwest throughout the 1950s, while for some reason, it spread to other establishments in Logansport and became part of the populace lexicon, but no many other nearby towns. To most people, it has been the name used their entire lives. “Spanish sauce has a reputation here in Logansport,” added Graham, who uses the sauce to cover nachos, fries, and sausage sandwiches. “We have people come in from Kokomo, Lafayette, and even from Kentucky just to try a Spanish dog, just because they can’t get them where they live.” Is Logansport the “Spanish Dog Capital of the World”? Perhaps that might be a bold statement, but with at least five locations in the area spooning their homemade recipe over hot dogs and nachos, it may be somewhat hard to argue another town that deserves such a distinction. ------ 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: 3.14 Esbjornson Gymnasium North Campus Drive Glassboro, NJ 08028 Esbjornson Gymnasium website Rowan Profs website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 1,150 Glassboro Profs Rowan University is a public university in Glassboro, New Jersey. Founded in 1923 as Glassboro Normal School, it was formerly known as Glassboro State College from 1958 until 1992 and Rowan College of New Jersey from 1992 to 1997. The university has an enrollment of just less than 20,000. Rowan University has 18 sports teams. They are a member of the NCAA in Division III, competing in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC). The teams are named the Profs (short for Professors, a nod to the university's 1923 opening as a school to train educators), and the mascot is named Whoo RU. The most successful team at the school is the Profs football team, which is regularly a contender for the national title, having gone to the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl five times (1999, 1998, 1996, 1995, 1993) and the national semifinals in 1992, 1997, 2001, 2004, and 2005. Esbjornson Gymnasium, also known as "Esby Gym", is home to Profs' basketball, swimming and diving, and volleyball. The venue was named after Roland A. Esbjornson, a physical education professor, athletic director, and head coach of basketball and baseball at Glassboro State College. Opened in 1963, Esby Gym was updated with new bleachers in 2008. Food & Beverage 2 There is a nice concession stand in the gymnasium's lobby. Prices are incredibly cheap. You won’t want to make the limited options your main meal, but at the same time, your wallet will be happy. Atmosphere 3 The venue is a pretty basic small college gym with seats on both sides of the court. Many of the games, such as the one we attended, are doubleheaders with the women's teams so you may see many fans come and go. When students are in session, especially during weekday games, there will be much more of a student presence which will make for a better atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 Glassboro is a borough within Gloucester County, New Jersey. It is considered to be within the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Glassboro is crisscrossed by several major roads. These include County Route 553, Route 47. and Route 55, while U.S. Route 322 (much of which is also Mullica Hill Road) passes from east to west. There is no current passenger train service to Glassboro but the proposed Glassboro–Camden Line, an 18-mile (28.97 km) diesel multiple unit (DMU) light rail system is planned to stop nearby. Fans 3 The fans are about what you expect for a small college venue. The students can make it better at the games they attend. Rowan is a member of the New Jersey Athletic Conference which has all of its current full members are public universities in New Jersey (SUNY New Paltz will join the NJAC as a full member, becoming the NJAC's first-ever full member located outside of the state of New Jersey). This means that fans from other schools, and especially parents of the athletes, are very likely to be in attendance. Access 3 Rowan is easy to get to, but since it is a major university you should research ahead of time your best entrance to the campus. If attending a weeknight game during the semester give yourself a bit of time. We like to use the entrance near 500 Joseph L Bowe Blvd. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Rowan game is about on the same price level as high school athletics. Tickets can be had for $5 at the door. Parking is free but check on parking regulations, especially for weeknight, in-semester games. Extras 3 The lobby is filled with cases of all the awards for the various Profs teams. Rowan/s various sports fields are located right by the gymnasium and worth a visit to check out. There are cool owl-branded tables in the lobby next to the concession stand. Final Thoughts Rowan University plays a good level of basketball and the opponents of the NJAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 J. Thom Lawler Rink 315 Turnpike Rd. North Andover, MA 01845 Merrimack Warriors men’s hockey website Lawler Rink website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,549 Laying down the Law   Merrimack College is a private Augustinian college in the Boston suburb of North Andover. Founded in 1947 by the order of St. Augustine with the goal of educating soldiers returning from World War II, the school now boasts an enrollment of almost 5,500 students in 13 academic programs. Among Merrimack’s alumni is Charlie Day, best known for his role in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.   Hockey has been played at Merrimack College since 1956. For almost three decades the team competed in Division II, winning a national championship in 1978 and finishing as national runners up in 1984. After this second-place finish the school made the leap to the Division One level, later joining the prestigious Hockey East Conference in 1989.   The Merrimack Warriors hockey team plays at the J. Thom Lawler Rink. The rink is named after J. Thom Lawler, one of the winningest coaches in school history. Mr. Lawler died in 1978 at the age of 44 just months after coaching the team to the inaugural Division II National Championship. Lawler Rink is part of the larger Merrimack Athletic Complex, which also contains Hammel Court , home of Merrimack’s basketball and volleyball teams.   In 2019 Merrimack transitioned all their athletic teams to the Division One level. The Warriors have qualified for the NCAA Tournament three times, most recently in 2023. Fifteen Merrimack alumni have played in the National Hockey League.   Food & Beverage 3   There is a single concession stand in the main lobby of the Volpe Complex which serves a limited menu. Hot dogs, crispy chicken sandwiches, nachos, assorted snacks and Dippin’ Dots are available here.   Pepsi products are featured at Lawler Rink. There is a stand in the lobby that serves beer and wine for fans wanting an adult beverage. Riverwalk Brewing features special edition brews made specifically for Merrimack Athletics, Mack Attack Light Lager and Together We Can IPA. Downeast Cider and assorted wines are sold here as well.   Stadium Journey was sad to discover that the old “secret” concession stand located in the Hammel Court lobby at the rear entrance to the facility is no longer open. With the long lines at the main concession stand, this was the place to go for a quick snack.   Atmosphere 3   The intimate size of Lawler Rink has created a significant home-ice advantage for the Warriors over the years. The low ceiling and capacity crowd both creates and holds the noise in and Merrimack teams have taken full advantage of this intimidating atmosphere over the years. Recent renovations have provided additional high-end and luxury spaces in the rink while modernizing the look of the facility.   The game day presentation is dominated by the huge video board located at the far end of the rink. This board displays game stats, replays, graphics and advertisements. During introductions and after goals Lawler Rink is bathed in blue and yellow light. The PA announcer does a nice job adding some energy to the proceedings. Music plays over a nice sound system during breaks.   Stadium Journey’s most recent visit occurred during semester break, so the students and pep band were not present. The Merrimack staff still did a nice job keeping the energy level up, even without the typical antics of the students. The addition of the Gallant Pavilion has displaced the student section to the far side of the arena, where they are now seated in the most remote sections, 1 and 13. Unfortunately, this places them on the sides of the rink rather than the end, and places them behind the home goalie for two periods, which is against hockey tradition. Merrimack is considering switching the goals to restore balance to the Warrior universe.   Neighborhood 3   Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Massachusetts, a town of almost 31,000 residents located 25 miles north of Boston. North Andover is your typical bedroom community, with plenty of shops and restaurants for locals, but nothing that would classify the town as a “must see” destination.   While there are many options for lodging or dining within a short distance of the Merrimack campus, out of town visitors will most likely head towards Boston after the game.  Fans looking to avoid the big city price tags will find numerous choices within a few miles of the Merrimack campus along nearby Interstate 495.   Among the highlights near campus is Burton’s Grill & Bar and The Friendly Toast, a brunch spot featuring adult drinks and a creative menu. There’s a Holiday Inn Express on I-495 just a couple of miles from campus.   Fans 4   Merrimack’s average attendance hovers around 2,500 fans annually, placing them just a bit below the national average for Division One hockey teams nationwide. While this figure may not look that impressive at first glance, consider this: Lawler Rink seats only 2.549 fans. The Warriors fill Lawler to over 90% capacity season after season. Warrior fans are not just butts in seats, either. Fans in this part of the country are crazy about hockey and more specifically, crazy about having a top-level team they can call their own.   The student section is regularly packed with crazed Merrimack students, with plenty of locals mixed in throughout Lawler Arena. Youth teams show up decked out in their jerseys adding to the noise and energy of this small barn. Access 4   The city of Boston dubs itself “The Hub of Hockey”, and when talking about college hockey, it’s hard to dispute this fact. There are 12 Division One hockey teams within an hour’s drive of Boston.   The Merrimack campus in North Andover is well within that radius, located 25 miles from the city just off of Interstate 495. Fans traveling from Boston can reach the Merrimack Campus by taking Interstate 93 to Route 125, or Interstate 495 to Route 114.  Driving is the easiest way to access the Merrimack campus, but for fans using public transportation, there is an MBTA train that stops at the Andover station. Once in Andover, the Warrior Shuttle offers service to points around town.   There is an entrance to the Merrimack campus right next to Lawler Rink. Unfortunately, this entrance is blocked. Visiting fans must enter campus on its north side, along Elm Street, not the listed main entrance on Turnpike Ave. Please make note of this change if driving to Merrimack.   Once at the Merrimack College campus, free parking is available in several lots a short walk from the Volpe Complex. After passing through a security check, fans will enter a large lobby, where the ticket offices, bookstore, concession stands, and restrooms are located.   Fans will enter the rink on either side of the ice, where walkways lead the length of the ice. All seats at Lawler Rink are individual plastic stadium seats. Lawlor Rink’s small size ensures great views of the action from all seats. Be warned that the walkways at Lawler Rink are located at the bottom of the seating bowl, so views of the action may be obstructed by passing fans if sitting in the first couple of rows. Choose seats a few rows up for better views of the action.   Rest rooms are clean and spacious, but lines do form during intermission. Remember the “secret” lobby mentioned earlier? Even though the snack bar here is closed, fans may still access the restrooms and check out the Merrimack Athletic Hall of Fame here.   Return on Investment 3     All tickets to Merrimack hockey games are sold as reserved seats for $25. Discounts are available for youths and seniors. Using a debit or credit card to purchase tickets will incur a $5 surcharge. Parking is free in the lots near the Volpe Complex. Concessions are a bit on the high side, but in line with other local venues. Even with recent price increases, a night at a Merrimack hockey game remains an affordable entertainment option for local hockey fans. Extras 2   The Merrimack Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the Volpe Complex and is open for fans to check out during game days.   An additional extra point is awarded for the recent upgrades to this tiny facility, including the Gallant Pavilion at the north end of Lawler Rink, which is accessible to all fans for an additional fee. The entire facility has received a coat of paint in addition to other, more subtle touches which have modernized the old barn. The renovations have allowed the school to move some of their basketball games to Lawler.   Final Thoughts   Tiny Merrimack College may seem out of place in the Hockey East Conference alongside the hockey giants of New England, but this little school with big ambitions stands toe-to-toe with the big boys most seasons. Lawler Arena is a small rink that provides the Warriors with a big home-ice advantage.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center 112 Harding St. Worcester, MA 01604 Worcester State Lancers men's ice hockey website Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 250 Worcester State Hockey   Worcester State University is the fourth largest of Massachusetts’ nine state universities, with an enrollment of over 5,400 students in 80 undergraduate majors and 39 graduate programs. WSU was founded as a normal school in the 19th century before evolving into a state college in the 1960s, becoming a university in 2012.   The Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center is a state of the art dual-rink facility built by the ECHL Worcester Railers’ owner Cliff Rucker. It features two rinks, the Railers offices and pro shop, restaurants, a gym and rehabilitation center. The $18 million dollar complex is home to several college, high school and youth organizations, including the Worcester State Lancers and Assumption Greyhounds. The facility boasts that over 600,000 people pass through its front doors annually.   Worcester State’s first hockey team took the ice in 1966, coached by John Coughlin, the school’s legendary football coach and namesake of Coughlin Field, home of the Lancers football team. The Lancers won three Division Three ECAC championships back in the 1970s. Today, the team competes in the Massachusetts Collegiate Athletic Conference alongside several other schools in and around the state of Massachusetts. Worcester State has yet to qualify for the NCAA D-3 Tournament.   Food & Beverage 3  Ordinarily, a hockey rink with only a couple of vending machines available would score very poorly on this metric. If you’re only planning to hit the machines, your standard snack foods will have to do. Now, since this is Worcester, the cola wars are not fought here. The vending machines in the Ice Center lobby feature local Polar beverages. Stadium Journey’s recommendation: try an Orange Dry.  What brings this score up a couple of notches is the presence of Bay State Brewing on the first floor.  Featuring a menu of small-batch craft beers in a wide range of styles (the blood orange lager is their most popular brew) and a menu of pizzas, sharables and sandwiches, it’s a great place to hang out before or after the game. Plus, you can grab one of their craft beers and bring it upstairs to enjoy while you watch the game. That’s worth a couple of extra points in my book.   Atmosphere 2 There’s nothing fancy going on at a Lancers hockey game. This is as basic as a game day presentation gets. That should be apparent to everyone as soon as they see the tiny dot matrix scoreboard hanging at center ice. The PA announcer delivers his announcements with the most monotone delivery you’ll ever hear at a hockey game. Any energy the announcer lacks is made up for with the music selection, which is a mix of hockey rink classics and modern tunes. Most of the energy generated in the blue rink is generated by the fans in the stands. With the small crowds in attendance, you can hear the sounds of skates cutting through the ice, coaches barking instructions at their teams, and players chirping each other (and the referees). It’s an old-school, laid-back experience here at the Worcester Ice Center.   Neighborhood 4 Worcester State University is located in the Tatnuck neighborhood of Worcester adjacent to downtown. The name Tatnuck means “up the great hill.”   The WSU campus is about two and a half miles from the Worcester Ice Center, which is located in the Canal District. This neighborhood has received a lot of attention in recent years. The construction of nearby Polar Park  and the arrival of the Worcester Red Sox, the top affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, has been a boon for the neighborhood. New developments have popped up all over the area, bringing business and money to what was once one of Worcester’s rougher areas. In addition to Bay State Brewery located at the facility, El Patron Mexican Restaurant and the Worcester Public Market are located just a short walk down Harding Street. Visiting fans looking to explore some of the best the city has to offer should head to Shrewsbury Street, the home of Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row.” Along this drag’s 1.5 miles are located some of the city’s finest dining establishments, salons and shops. There are not many lodging options available in the immediate vicinity of the Worcester Ice Center, but there are options throughout the city, including a Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton in the nearby downtown neighborhood, less than a mile away near the DCU Center , home of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers. Fans 2 The crowd at a Worcester State hockey game is certainly a “friends and family” type of crowd. Pretty much everyone in attendance has a personal connection with the players on the ice, and as a result, are knowledgeable and enthusiastic in their support of the Lancers. Since Worcester State’s schedule is made up mainly of local teams, you can expect to find a good number of visiting fans here as well. Even though Worcester State’s campus is only about two and a half miles away, there’s not much of a turnout from the student body. Surprisingly, you may find a bunch of four-legged friends in attendance watching the game in this chilly rink along with about 50-100 human fans.   Access 4 The Worcester Ice Center is located right off of Interstate 290, and easy to get to via the Grafton Street exit. The facility is located just a quarter mile from the highway and ten minutes from downtown. Hopefully your GPS will take you here via Grafton Street rather than Kelly Square, a quasi-rotary where several of Worcester’s busiest streets all come together in the most random fashion possible. It is notorious for its delays, backups and accidents. As part of the construction of Polar Park, it received a much-needed overhaul, which has greatly increased the intersection’s safety and wait times, but those unfamiliar with the area would be well-advised to avoid this intersection. There is free parking available in the lot adjacent to the facility in addition to on-street parking in the area. The neighborhood is generally safe should you stay on the busier streets. The Worcester Ice Center features two rinks, named the blue and the gray rinks, after the Railers’ colors. Fans enter into the facility’s lobby, with Bay State Brewing to your right. With the facility in constant use, this lobby is full of activity. Fans will climb a set of stairs to access the seating area of the two rinks, with standing room on the first level straight ahead. The Lancers play at the Blue rink, located on the right. Seating is located about ten feet above the ice surface, and consists of metal bleachers without backs that run from one end of the ice to the other. There are raised platforms at both ends of the rink for people wanting to stand for a bit. Netting runs the length of the ice, obstructing the view from all seats. There is also standing room along the boards at ice level. Access to the gray rink next door is easy, and many fans will wander back and forth between the rinks.   Return on Investment 4 Worcester State charges a fee of five dollars to attend their hockey games. Parking is available at no charge in the small lot in front of the Ice Center. Additional parking is available on-street around the facility and in a parking lot across the street. There is a charge to park on-street (except on Saturday nights, where the city waives parking fees) and in the lot. Be prepared to pay $15 if you’re parking in the public lot. If you’re planning to eat at Bay State Brewing downstairs, or even grab a beer to bring upstairs, expect to pay usual restaurant prices. A pint of one of their brews will run $8, a much more affordable price than you’ll pay at most arenas.   Extras 2 Flags hang at the end of the rink representing all the teams that use the Worcester Ice Center. Along the far side of the rink are flags commemorating the championships won by these teams. In the lobby is a display honoring the “Worcester Six,” a group of firefighters who died fighting a warehouse fire in 1999. Final Thoughts The Worcester Ice Center is a community rink that offers your typical small college experience. The facility offers some impressive extras and an up-and-coming neighborhood that boosts its score significantly. Plus, if schedules line up, you’ll get to watch two games for the price of one! Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 NIT Tip-Off website State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports website Year Opened: 2006 Disney’s Newest College Basketball Tradition College basketball in-season tournaments are all the rage lately, and another traditional tournament has found a new home at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports. Previously held in New York City, the NIT Tip-Off has moved to Orlando, featuring four teams from around the country. This event features plenty of action for an affordable price in a stellar location. Held inside State Farm Field House, this is a popular stop around the Thanksgiving holiday for fans of participating teams. Held at the same time as the ESPN Events Invitational, the NIT Tip-Off takes the evening slate of games each day, while the Invitational takes the afternoon time slots.   Food & Beverage   4 There are usually a lot of options at Wide World of Sports – inside State Farm Field House itself, concessions include burgers ($9.50), house salads ($10.50), hot dogs ($9.50), Mickey Ice Cream Bars ($6.50), and Mickey Pretzels with cheese ($8.50). Drinks include beer and alcohol at a stand just across the hall from the food stand, as well as bottled water ($4), coffee ($4.50), and fountain soda ($6) at the main stand in the corners. The beer garden concession stand also features burgers and pretzels with beer ($13-$15.75) that includes optional refills ($8-$9) and Powerade ($5.50). Deserts include Mickey Ice Cream Bars or frozen lemonade cups ($6.50). The arena also includes a Wetzel’s Pretzels location, selling their famous hot pretzels in various options, as well as soda.   Atmosphere   3 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports features a lot of exposed metal beams in the architecture, and its curved roof amplifies the noise and lighting inside. The overall aesthetic of nearby facilities, including Champion Stadium, are carried over here as well. The arena has one concourse level, meaning you can walk up or down to your seats easily. ESPN logos are all over the facility, including NIT Tip-Off logos. Neighborhood   5 The sports complex is located just off Osceola Parkway, literally across the street from the new entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios; because of this you’re not far from pretty much everything you need on your trip. For obvious reasons, the best place to stay would be at any of the Disney Resorts – guests of the resorts get free bus transport to and from the arena. The closest hotels, Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation, are two of the park’s lowest priced resorts. For food, anywhere on Disney Property is a go-to; Kona Café at the Disney Polynesian Resort is a popular stop for sushi and a south seas flavor for dinner, while California Grill at the top of Contemporary Resort is also a popular go-to for a more upscale experience. In addition, popular tourist stops include EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom theme parks. Also, Disney Springs, which is accessible via bus and car, is home to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities for the whole family. Fans   4 The games are played among four teams, meaning you get two games per day/per ticket. Tickets are sold by day, which means if you go to catch both games, you may notice one game is more or less popular than the other, depending on the fans who traveled for each team. While this can lead to some generally sparse attendance at times, the atmosphere is no-less electric. The noise is also amplified inside, so each dunk and three-pointer seem to garner loud cheers regardless of the attendance in the building, and since everyone has made the trip to Disney, you generally have a lot of families who are attending the games, making for a more family-friendly atmosphere than some team’s home games might have. Access   4 Getting to Wide World of Sports is pretty easy, but traffic for certain games can be a pain. Parking is free in all parking lots for this tournament, including right close to the main entrance. Now that the roadways have been re-routed in the area, access to the facility is easy when getting onto the property; there is signage all over Disney’s property leading you to Wide World of Sports, and getting off the main road is easy thanks to the new flyover.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets are very affordable, ranging from just $30 for the upper sidelines and $25 for the baseline, up to $40 for the lower sidelines and $60 for lower center court; all seating is first-come, first-served general admission within each seating area. Additional hospitality can also be purchased, for example tickets all-you-can-eat food with drinks costs $110, with your choice of high top or couch seating areas at floor level behind the basket. This VIP area behind the baseline gives you what amounts to courtside seating and viewing in your own section, complete with tables, chairs, couches, and several TVs that show not only the game you are watching live, but other games on TV as well. Extras   3 The facility features a popular picture spot at the main entrance next to the Wide World of Sports globe. There also are numerous sports facilities all throughout the area, including various other events that may be going on, from cheerleading competitions to youth soccer tournaments. TV screens throughout Wide World of Sports are also constantly playing various ESPN channels, fully immersing you in sports. Finally, during the championship game Mickey Mouse makes an appearance in special basketball-themed attire, and the tournament MVP is presented with a framed Disney World basketball jersey as their trophy.   Final Thoughts The NIT Tip-Off is a welcome addition to ESPN Wide World of Sports – having it scheduled at the same time as the ESPN Events Invitational gives fans the option to catch even more basketball than previous years of the tournament. Additionally, being located in such a family friendly location, this is an ideal tournament to visit in late November, especially for those fans looking to escape the colder weather up north.

Photos by Greg Venuto and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Total Mortgage Arena 600 Main St Bridgeport, CT 06604 Bridgeport Islanders website Total Mortgage Arena website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 8,412 Hard Times In Bridgeport The Bridgeport Islanders are in their fourth season since changing their nickname from Sound Tigers to Islanders and the third full season since the arena changed its naming rights to Total Mortgage Arena in March of 2022. The Islanders made another move this year and changed their logo to the Fisherman logo once worn by the parent New York Islanders in the 1990s. The logo was once ridiculed by media types who dubbed it the “Gorton’s Fisherman” and NY Rangers fans followed with the derisive “We want fish sticks” chant. The arena, which is owned by Harbor Yards Sports and Entertainment, is still a more than respectable facility to watch AHL hockey or any sporting event or show. While the arena is legit, the product on the ice has been substandard. The arena is not nearly as busy as it used to be. Fairfield University Men’s and Women’s basketball moved their games back to the campus with the opening of a new facility. Sacred Heart was playing its hockey games in Bridgeport but moved back to its new campus arena in January of 2023. The upcoming event calendar shows not much other than Islanders games. The arena does host The Harlem Globetrotters, Disney on Ice, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, and occasional concerts and comedy shows. The Islanders, who play in the Atlantic Division, have struggled to make the playoffs recently (last appearance 2019) and have not made a run at the Calder Cup since their inaugural season of 2001-2002 when they lost to the Chicago Wolves in five games. Food & Beverage 4 On opening night, the Islanders, in partnership with Sodexo Live! and Total Mortgage Arena, released eight brand-new food items, including bacon cheddar tater tots, boneless wings, fried Oreos, and Crumbl cookies. There is plenty of traditional fare to choose from including pizza, chicken fingers, hot dogs, french fries, nachos, and churros. The portable food carts are welcome and keep wait times to a minimum. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink beverage of choice. The best places to hang out are Fanatics Sportsbook and the Mason’s Bar. Fanatics has a multitude of screens showing games from around the country. The bar is cashless serves a multitude of beers and high-end cocktails and offers betting kiosks. The Sportsbook is open every day from 11:30 AM to 10 PM. Mason's is located on the third floor above section 102 and offers a variety of beers, canned cocktails, wine, and spirits. It also has televisions for watching sports. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere was tough to completely evaluate as this visit was on a Wednesday night. There were fewer attempts to engage the crowd, most likely due to the small crowd, although the fans always get fired up for the T-shirt toss. The huge HD Scoreboard is crystal clear and the sound system is solid. Storm, the team’s mascot, roams around the arena and will always stop for a selfie. The Islanders enforce a “puck in play policy” that fans cannot enter the seating area while the game is in progress. That rule seems a bit overzealous due to the small crowd size. The must-see attraction for families is the inflatables and games at the atrium including a chance to shoot at a small goal, a connect four game, and two corn hole setups. The team store is situated adjacent to the game area. The arena has 33 executive suites, 1,300 club seats, and 3 hospitality suites. Neighborhood 3 The downtown area can be a bit desolate at night but strides have been made to revitalize the area. The Ballpark at Harbor Yard was situated next to Total Mortgage Arena until 2017 but when its tenant (Bridgeport Bluefish) ceased operations the ballpark was converted to a concert venue known as Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater which opened July 28, 2021. Downtown Bridgeport proper is located on the other side of Interstate 95. The area is home to many of the city’s arts, entertainment, and cultural offerings including the Bijou Theatre, BPT Creates, Downtown Cabaret, Stress Factory Comedy Club, City Lights Gallery, the Barnum Museum, and the Housatonic Museum of Art. In addition to the businesses, restaurant options include Ralph N Rich’s (a four-minute walk) offering Italian food, and Brewport, a large brewpub serving brick oven pizza and quality craft beers just an eight-minute walk. Fans 2 The arena used to draw decent weekend crowds but numbers have fallen a bit in the past few years. On the positive side, the Islanders are averaging 3,577 per game which is seventh lowest in the league but better than the 3,167 mark from last season. Bridgeport regularly ranks near the bottom of the AHL rankings in terms of attendance. The Islanders have been averaging over 4,000 fans for Saturday night games this season. The team relies heavily on local towns and school outings to bring in bigger crowds. Hopefully, the crowds increase once the holiday season is over. The team might need to increase its ground game and promote better to the local communities. The Islanders, led by Storm, often visit local schools, libraries, and town events to enhance their visibility which leads to more group outings at Total Mortgage Arena. Access 5 The arena is super accessible situated right off Interstate 95. From the North take exit 27B toward Harbor Yard/L.I. Ferry/Trans Center. From the South take exit 27, come down the ramp, and follow the signs for a block to the arena. Parking is available in a surface lot across the street from the arena or in a parking garage next to the arena. Those looking for free parking can find on-street parking within a short walk of the arena. The area around the arena is well-lit and safe. The city is located 60 miles northeast of New York City, an hour’s drive south of Hartford, and 20 minutes from New Haven. Amtrak’s northeast corridor trains pass directly behind the arena, with the station only a couple of city blocks from the arena. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Islanders games start at $21.50 for end zone seats and progress to a high of $76 for first-row seats on the sides. Bar Stool seats behind the goal run from $33-$45. One tip, Sections 114-116 behind the benches have padded seats. With the small crowds present at Total Mortgage Arena, it’s possible to spread out and move around a bit. Family packs offer an affordable night of entertainment including pre-game festivities, in-game promotions, and hockey. Packages start as low as $99. And includes four seats, four hot dogs, and four fountain drinks. Parking costs $17 in the garage adjacent to the arena and the two lots a block away. The garage and outdoor lots are cashless, but the transit garage is cash-only. There is free on-street parking available, but fans need to arrive early to get those spots. Concessions are a bit on the high side but in line with other venues in the New York City area. Extras 2 One point is for the Bar Stool sitting behind the goal that the Islanders defend twice. The elevated view is perfect and offers a private location with only three rows in one section and one row in the other two. The other point is for $2 Wednesdays. Hot dogs, cans of beer, and popcorn are all $2 each until the start of the second period. Final Thoughts A Bridgeport Islanders game is a worthy night of entertainment for everyone. The only issue is getting more people to know about it and into the building.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center 112 Harding St. Worcester, MA 01604 Assumption Greyhounds men's ice hockey website Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 250 Greyhound Hockey   Assumption University is a private, Roman Catholic university founded in 1904 by the Augustinians of the Assumption. Its enrollment of approximately 2,000 undergraduate students study in 35 programs within five academic divisions.   The Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center is a state of the art dual-rink facility built by the ECHL Worcester Railers’ owner Cliff Rucker. It features two rinks, the Railers offices and pro shop, restaurants, a gym and rehabilitation center. The $18 million dollar complex is home to several college, high school and youth organizations, including the Assumption Greyhounds, Worcester State Lancers and Worcester Polytechnic Institute Engineers. The facility boasts that over 600,000 people pass through its front doors annually.   Assumption’s athletic teams are called the Greyhounds and compete in Division II’s Northeast-10 Conference. Since this Conference is the only D-2 conference in the NCAA that plays hockey, there is no national postseason tournament for the six teams in the Northeast-10.  The Greyhounds have won three NE-10 titles. The women’s team competes in the New England Women’s Hockey Alliance, which is recognized as a Division One conference. They have yet to qualify for the NCAA Tournament.   Food & Beverage 3   Ordinarily, a hockey rink with only a couple of vending machines available would score very poorly on this metric. If you’re only planning to hit the machines, your standard snack foods will have to do. Now, since this is Worcester, the cola wars are not fought here. The vending machines in the Ice Center lobby feature local Polar beverages. Stadium Journey’s recommendation: try an Orange Dry.   What brings this score up a couple of notches is the presence of Bay State Brewing on the first floor.  Featuring a menu of small-batch craft beers in a wide range of styles (the blood orange lager is their most popular brew) and a menu of pizzas, sharables and sandwiches, it’s a great place to hang out before or after the game. Plus, you can grab one of their craft beers and bring it upstairs to enjoy while you watch the game. That’s worth a couple of extra points in my book.   Atmosphere 2   There’s nothing fancy going on at a Greyhounds hockey game. This is as basic as a game day presentation gets. That should be apparent to everyone as soon as they see the tiny dot matrix scoreboard hanging at center ice. The sound system is decent and plays music during play stoppages. The PA announcer goes about his work in an unobtrusive manner, keeping fans informed of the goings on without adding a lot of energy to the proceedings.   Most of the energy generated in the gray rink is generated by the fans in the stands. With the small crowds in attendance, you can hear the sounds of skates cutting through the ice, coaches barking instructions at their teams, and players chirping each other (and the referees). It’s an old-school, laid-back experience here at the Worcester Ice Center.   Neighborhood 4   While Assumption University is located in residential Forest Grove neighborhood in western Worcester, the Worcester Ice Center is about four miles away from campus in Worcester's Canal District. This neighborhood has received a lot of attention in recent years. The construction of nearby Polar Park  and the arrival of the Worcester Red Sox, the top affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, has been a boon for the neighborhood. New developments have popped up all over the area, bringing business and money to what was once one of Worcester’s rougher areas.   In addition to Bay State Brewery located at the facility, El Patron Mexican Restaurant and the Worcester Public Market are located just a short walk down Harding Street. Visiting fans looking to explore some of the best the city has to offer should head to Shrewsbury Street, the home of Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row.” Along this drag’s 1.5 miles are located some of the city’s finest dining establishments, salons and shops.   There are not many lodging options available in the immediate vicinity of the Worcester Ice Center, but there are options throughout the city, including a Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton in the nearby downtown neighborhood, less than a mile away near the DCU Center , home of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers.   Fans 2   The crowd at an Assumption hockey game is certainly a “friends and family” type of crowd. Pretty much everyone in attendance has a personal connection with the players on the ice, and as a result, are knowledgeable and enthusiastic in their support of the Greyhounds. Since Assumption's schedule is made up mainly of local teams, you can expect to find a good number of visiting fans here as well. With Assumption’s campus located about four miles away, there’s not much of a turnout from the student body. Surprisingly, you’ll find a bunch of four-legged friends in attendance watching the game in this chilly rink alongside about 50-100 human fans. Sadly, no Greyhounds were seen during Stadium Journey’s visit.   Access 4   The Worcester Ice Center is located right off of Interstate 290, and easy to get to via the Grafton Street exit. The facility is located just a quarter mile from the highway and ten minutes from downtown. Hopefully your GPS will take you here via Grafton Street rather than Kelly Square, a quasi-rotary where several of Worcester’s busiest streets all come together in the most random fashion possible. It is notorious for its delays, backups and accidents. As part of the construction of Polar Park, it received a much-needed overhaul, which has greatly increased the intersection’s safety and wait times, but those unfamiliar with the area would be well-advised to avoid this intersection.   There is free parking available in the lot adjacent to the facility in addition to on-street parking in the area. The neighborhood is generally safe should you stay on the busier streets.   The Worcester Ice Center features two rinks, named the blue and the gray rinks, after the Railers’ colors. Fans enter into the facility’s lobby, with Bay State Brewing to your right. With the facility in constant use, this lobby is full of activity. Fans will climb a set of stairs to access the seating area of the two rinks, with standing room on the first level straight ahead. The Greyhounds play at the Gray rink, located on the left.   Seating is located about ten feet above the ice surface, and consists of metal bleachers without backs that run from one offensive zone to the other. There are raised platforms at both ends of the rink for people wanting to stand for a bit. Netting runs the length of the ice, obstructing the view from all seats. There is also standing room along the boards at ice level. Access to the blue rink next door is easy, and many fans will wander back and forth between the rinks.   Return on Investment 4   There is no charge to attend a Greyhounds hockey game. Parking is available at no charge in the small lot in front of the Ice Center. Additional parking is available on-street around the facility and in a parking lot across the street. There is a charge to park on-street (except on Saturday nights, where the city waives parking fees) and in the lot. Be prepared to pay $15 if you’re parking in the public lot.   If you’re planning to eat at Bay State Brewing downstairs, or even grab a beer to bring upstairs, expect to pay usual restaurant prices. A pint of one of their brews will run $8, a much more affordable price than you’ll pay at most arenas.   Extras 2   Flags hang at the end of the rink representing all the teams that use the Worcester Ice Center. Along the far side of the rink are flags commemorating the championships won by these teams.   In the lobby is a display honoring the “Worcester Six,” a group of firefighters who died fighting a warehouse fire in 1999.   Final Thoughts   The Worcester Ice Center is a community rink that offers your typical small college experience. The facility offers some impressive extras and an up-and-coming neighborhood that boosts its score significantly. Plus, if schedules line up, you’ll get to watch two games for the price of one!   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photo courtesy of New York Daily News Texas A&M has the 12th Man. Columbia University football has Jake Novak, arguably its number one fan. For more than two decades, Jake has been blogging about CU football at Roar Lions 2024 . In equal parts, he has played the role of cheerleader, promoter and critic. This year, Jake was cheering a lot. For the first time since 1961, Columbia won the Ivy League title, sharing it with Harvard and Dartmouth. Jake took a few minutes to discuss this historic season, as well as some other issues. STADIUM JOURNEY: So, how does it feel to finally be at the top of the Ivy league? Does the air feel different? Is it as glorious as you imagined? You've been in the desert for so, so long. JAKE NOVAK:  It definitely feels great, though not exactly like the promised land because it was a shared championship with two teams, which we lost to during the season. I've been reliably told we don’t have to refer to this as a "co-championship," but that's going to take a little getting used to. What makes up for the 3-way tie is how good this team was overall and what it overcame both before and during the season.    STADIUM JOURNEY: You do a lot of predictions on the blog. Did you see this coming this season? Did  anyone  see this coming? JAKE NOVAK: No one seriously saw this coming. I felt like last year's 3-7 team should have gone 5-5 or so, but not much better than that. We had issues at the QB position all year, and you can't expect to have a winning season without good overall QB play. So we entered this season knowing we had to start a totally new starter and how much can you expect from a season like that? I did think new Head Coach Jon Poppe was a winner though, and considering all the returning talent at the other positions I thought we could eke out a 6-4 season this year, going either 3-4 in the Ivy League or at best 4-2. It turned out we found a generational talent in sophomore starting QB Chase Goodwin, and his two backups performed well enough after he went down with a non-career threatening injury at midseason. That made a huge difference. Columbia ended up 7-3 and 5-2 in the Ivies, and that's actually a major step from 6-4 and 3-4 in the league. If you know, you know.     STADIUM JOURNEY: How did you become such a diehard Columbia football fan? How on earth does this happen? Describe the evolution. JAKE NOVAK:  When I began as a freshman at Columbia in 1988, the Lions were in the middle of the longest losing streak in college football history. You couldn't help but root for those guys. Columbia lost the first three games of the season and then stunned Princeton at Homecoming to end the 44-game streak. The campus went wild and the administration even served free pizza and beer to everyone. No one was even carded! And I was hooked. I was just amazed that kids going to my college actually played football at all. It still kind of amazes me. The money-centric aspect of pro sports gets me down sometimes, so the purity of Ivy ball resonates. I'm much more of a fan of CU football than any other sports team I follow.    STADIUM JOURNEY: How long have you been blogging about CU football? What drives you to keep humming along?  JAKE NOVAK:  I started the blog in 2005 and used to update it just about every day. Life has made that harder to do in recent years, but I try to keep it going as often as I can.    STADIUM JOURNEY: There have been some low points over the past few decades. What was the lowest? JAKE NOVAK:  The absolute low point was the hiring of Pete Mangurian as the Head Coach of the program after the 2011 season. I tried to be a good soldier about it for a while, but this was a guy with a documented history of altercations with players, including the very beloved Jumbo Elliot from the New York Giants. There was no real search process before he was hired, and we were in big trouble in the beginning. The players felt abandoned and abused and going into Mangurian's final season, I decided to go into full revolt mode against the CU Athletic Department. I got a lot of support from many fans and alumni and parents. but some people abandoned and shunned me. It was ultimately worth it, but Mangurian left the program in a shambles and riding a 21-game losing streak at the end of the 2014 season.     STADIUM JOURNEY: You're an indie operation, not affiliated with CU.  Are you still getting some cold shoulders from the Columbia administration? Or have things mellowed? JAKE NOVAK: Yes and no. One key staffer in the Athletic Department definitely still hates me. But he's enough of a sports fan to know that the things I pushed for were way overdue and the program is the better for it, not because of me, but because I gave a platform to so many people who otherwise would have been silenced.    STADIUM JOURNEY: Last year, the blog went on hiatus, at least it sure seemed that way. It was amid the campus protests. Was this a coincidence? Were you considering stepping away from CU football and perhaps Columbia in general? JAKE NOVAK:  That's exactly right. I am deeply saddened by not only the radical antisemitism Columbia keeps allowing on campus, but by the terrible advertisement for the school these protesters truly are. Whenever they speak publicly, they can barely put together a coherent sentence. Even if I did agree with their political points, I'd be embarrassed to be associated with them. The school is doing very serious damage to itself and I am ashamed of the institution. I considered not supporting the teams for some time, but the varsity athletes are clearly not the people protesting on campus and spreading hate. They've been going through much worse than I am during this ordeal, and I decided to support them. But I refrained from wearing my Columbia gear at the games and held back on donations. I wore my Sid Luckman Chicago Bears jersey to every game and that was that.    STADIUM JOURNEY: Wien Stadium is a special venue. What's it like to attend a game there? What's special about it? JAKE NOVAK:  It's a very beautiful spot in the Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan. The Inwood Hill Park adjacent to the stadium is the last large chunk of Manhattan that still looks the same as it was when the Dutch first landed here in the 16th century. The stadium itself offers some great views of the Hudson River and the rock formations. In the stands, you are very close to the field and there are no bad seats. Parking is a challenge, but not impossible.    STADIUM JOURNEY: So let's say someone's planning on attending a game at Wien. What are some ideal spots to hit before and after the game? What other insider tips do you have for fans who plan on visiting Wien?   JAKE NOVAK: Well, definitely stroll through Inwood Hill Park if you can and see the amazing views.  About 20 blocks from the stadium is The Cloisters, a mock up of a massive medieval castle and grounds that the Metropolitan Museum has used for decades to house its Medieval art, armor collection. It's a great place to visit.  Inwood itself used to be a restaurant and bar desert, but that's not true anymore. One place that never would have existed in old Inwood is Inwood Farm Cafe, which is just diagonally across from the stadium on 218th street. It was a blast going there after Columbia beat Cornell to watch Harvard lose to Yale and thus clinch the co-championship for Columbia on the TV over the bar. Food is good there too.    STADIUM JOURNEY: Have you considered stopping the blog, or are you in this for the long haul? JAKE NOVAK:  I'll always update the blog as long as I'm physically able. It may become a monthly periodical one day or something like that if push comes to shove.  Jon Hart is  @manversusball

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 J.L. Grightmire Arena 35 Market Street South Dundas, Ontario Dundas Blues website J.L. Grightmire Arena website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 1,000 Small Town Blues Although it is part of the City of Hamilton, the community of Dundas has a personality all of its own.  The former town was amalgamated into the City of Hamilton in 2001 and currently boasts 24,000 residents.  Dundas is also the home of Canadian icon, Doug McKenzie, of the McKenzie Brothers of SCTV Fame, actor Dave Thomas. One of the staples of Dundas is the Dundas Blues hockey team.  Founded in 1959 as a team at the Junior D level.  It folded after two seasons and was reformed as the Junior C Dundas Merchants.  In 1971, the team was renamed the Blues and moved to the Junior B level.  In 1981, the Blues settled at the Junior C level, where they remain today as part of the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) playing in the South Bloomfield Division.  In 2010, Dundas won the annual Kraft Hockeyville contest which brought with it an NHL preseason game and money for infrastructure.  Home for the Blues is the J.L. Grightmire Arena.  Built in 1950 and named after James Louis Grightmire who founded a bus line between Dundas and Hamilton after World War I.  He also founded the Dundas Golf and Curling Club and was involved in building the arena.  Food & Beverage 2 There is one main concession stand in the lobby.  The menu ifeatures typical arena snack bar fare, including hot dogs, popcorn, chocolate, candy sandwiches, wraps and breakfast sandwiches.  Coffee, hot chocolate, tea, smoothies and Coca-Cola products are the soft drink options that are available.  There is a big push in the arena for patrons to bring their own cup to reduce the garbage created.  A separate beer cart is also found in the lobby where Grain and Gut Beer Company products are available for sale. Atmosphere 3 The J.L. Grightmire Arena was built in 1950 and has had a few renovations since then including one that wrapped up in 2023.  The exterior of the arena features light brick and glass and gives it that feeling of an old building with a modern refresh.  The main entry off of Market Street leads into the upgraded lobby which is bright and modern.  The lobby has a number of old photos and framed newspaper articles reminding students of the history of the building.  The original cornerstone delineating the opening of the arena in 1950 is also prevalent near the entry.  Windows from the lobby also look into the arena and allow some patrons to watch from the warmth. Entering the arena shows a cozy, old-school rink where the ice surface runs from west to east.  Fans immediately are aware that the J.L. Grightmire Arena is the home of the Dundas Real McCoys, a senior hockey team that has been an institution in Dundas and previously in neighbouring Flamborough.  The east end of the arena is littered with Real McCoys championship banners that encircle the scoreclock.  Also along the south wall there are a number of Real McCoy numbers that are retired, the most prevalent of which is former Toronto Maple Leafs captain, Rick Vaive, who finished his playing career with the Real McCoys as a player coach.  There are also a number of minor hockey banners around the arena.  Although the centre ice logo, which is oddly best seen from the west end of the arena, is of the Dundas Blues, a moniker shared by the minor teams, the presence of the Blues in the arena is muted.  There are some Dundas Blues banners that get lost in the shuffle on the south side.  There are some old, faded banners from Blues league championships in 1987, 1989, 1991 and 1993.  There are also retired numbers for former blues Ward Batter, Jeff Aglor and Rick Kunc.  The Hockeyville banner hangs prominently in the arena.  The ceiling has a gentle arch with the typical silver insulation.  The long sides of the arena have three rows of arena seats and the ends have six rows.  Although finding a seat under one of the gas heaters hanging over the seating area may be the best choice, the best sightlines are from the ends.  A small track around the arena offers a bit of a path around.  A bit of a unique feature of the Grightimre Arena is that the Blues’ dressing room is behind the seating on the south side of the arena.  At the beginning of the period, players cross the track and step down the stairs into the bench area before getting to the ice.  Probably not the safest of features, but a relatively unique one that has an old-school feel to it. The gameday production in Dundas is what one would expect for Junior C hockey.  Thursday nights are when the Blues traditionally play.  Typical promotions at the arena include a 50/50 draw, various raffles and the chuck-a-puck promotion.  The chuck-a-puck is particularly entertaining as the protective mesh around the rink prevents a simple promotion.  During the second intermission, fans pack on to the Blues bench so that they can throw their puck on the ice.  The mascot, Lo, interacts with, and entertains fans. Neighbourhood 3 Dundas is a community, former town, west of Hamilton proper, that technically is part of the City of Hamilton.  It has an interesting small-town, downtown area that has some options for pre and post game food and drink.  Some options include Shawn & Ed Brewing Co, Thirsty Cactus, Betula, Namu, Valley Charcoal and Collins Brewhouse.  For other sporting options, the Dundas Real McCoys play in the Senior ACH league and share Grightmire Arena.  The Blues own Thursday evenings in Dundas and get a pretty good crowd.  Other sporting options are found in Hamilton proper, including the Hamilton Tiger-Cats , Hamilton Kilty B’s , McMaster Marauders football  and basketball  and Forge FC .  Beginning in 2024, the former FirstOntario Centre, home of the Toronto Rock , is undergoing huge renovations and displacing the NLL team.  The Hamilton Cardinals  may also be an option, but the schedules will probably not align.  Other tourist options include Dundas Museum, the Niagara Escarpment and many of the walking trails in the area.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, there are a number of B&B options or the Barracks Inn.  Finding accommodations in Hamilton may be a better option. Fans 4 Assessing fans in the PJHL is difficult as the league does not aggregate publish and attendance figures.  It seems that the Dundas Blues are among the top drawing teams in the PJHL.  For the 2024-25 season, at the time of writing, the Blues averaged over 400 fans per game.  The game reviewed saw over 500 fans in attendance.  The previous season saw the Blues average 345 fans per game. Fans in attendance are knowledgeable and supportive of the Blues.  At the game reviewed there were plenty of kids running around, not really watching hockey, but definitely excited about the night out at the arena.   Access 4 The J.L. Grightmire Arena is located in the community of Dundas, west of the traditional boundaries of Hamilton.  It is on the east side of Market Street, two blocks south of Highway 8 or King Street, south of Hatt Street.  Getting to the arena will require driving through Dundas, but that is not a big issue.  The parking at the arena is limited, so getting there on the earlier side is recommended.  For fans wishing to take public transit, there is an HSR transit stop on King Street.  Fans should consult the Hamilton Street Railway  website for fares, schedules and maps.  Getting around the arena is not terribly difficult, but fans with mobility issues should keep in mind that the arena is of a fifties vintage, and there will be some stairs and narrow points on the track.  The bathrooms are on the small side, but did not seem to have long lineups. Return on Investment 5 Typically, Junior C hockey is among the most affordable sporting experiences there is.  Tickets for the Blues go for $10 with students and seniors getting in for $8.  The large number of kids running around can be explained by the Blues’ policy whereby kids under 13 years of age get free entry.  Blues Alumni also have free entry.  Parking, although limited, is free and concession prices are what one would expect.  The product on the ice is decent and the Blues generally have a good team.  The Blues, although technically part of big-city Hamilton, do give off that small town vibe so prevalent through the PJHL. Extras 2 An extra mark for Dundas winning the 2010 Hockeyville contest. An extra mark for the City of Hamilton and community of Dundas restoring a classic arena. Final Thoughts Taking in a Dundas Blues game will give fans that small town feel that the PJHL boasts, in a classic arena for a supportive community.  The J.L. Grightmire Arena is a classic arena that has been given a significant facelift to make it more modern and comfortable.  Taking in a Blues game is an affordable and enjoyable sporting experience fans should consider while in the area. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Gregory Gymnasium 2101 Speedway Austin, TX 78712 Texas Longhorns website Gregory Gymnasium website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 11,313 Spiking Deep in the Heart of Texas There are sometimes sports venues that strike at the very soul of college athletics and everything you hope for your game day experience to be. Sure, basketball and football venues around the country are usually the first you think of when it comes to being that idyllic collegiate experience, but every once in a while a smaller sport takes your breath away, and reminds you that not everything memorable takes place in large arenas or stadiums. Texas volleyball, a multi-time national championship program, provides this exact spark. Playing in an old, weathered building located deep in the heart of campus, and featuring multi-level seating that seemingly spills over the top of the court itself, in a gymnasium constructed to amplify the cheers of the crowd, you’re hard pressed to find a more impressive venue for the sport.   Food & Beverage   3 There aren’t a lot of options for concessions at Texas volleyball games here, but what is available is incredibly affordable. The main concession stands near the main entrance offer hot dogs ($4), sausage wraps ($5), Bavarian pretzels ($5), popcorn or candy ($3), and jumbo pickles ($3). Drinks include bottled water ($3) or sodas ($5), while other smaller concessions vary, with ice cream available at some games as well.   Atmosphere   5 Gregory Gymnasium is one of those classic collegiate venues that oozes with history. Built in 1930, this 4,000-seat home to Texas Volleyball was originally constructed as the new home for the school’s men’s basketball team. After modernization in 1997 that included the addition of central air conditioning, the arena took its current form. The building is mostly still brick and mortar walls with large exposed beams in the ceiling, complete with windows that let in natural light during the day. Second floor halls are tight and narrow, echoing back to days gone past in stadium architecture. The entire facility features muted brown and orange hues, harkening to the team’s colors. A video scoreboard is located above the upper deck seating on one end, and championship banners line the rafters. This place is also incredibly loud, with fan chants echoing through the walls just like at a 100,000-seat football stadium.   Neighborhood   5 The campus for Texas is in the heart of downtown Austin, with the city center visible when you walk outside, so you are right there in the middle of one of the most vibrant and quickly growing cities in the nation. The airport is a bit of a drive, however, depending on traffic. For great food, you can’t skip The Salt Lick or Torchy’s Tacos. Austin is also home to the University of Texas’ main campus, as well as Zilker Park on Lady Bird Lake. Finally, for a hotel, look for Hilton Austin Airport or Holiday Inn Austin Airport as two options that are great, due to their proximity to the airport and to major highways that lead to downtown.   Fans   5 To paraphrase Cassian Andor in Rogue One, Gregory Gymnasium can make 4,000 fans feel like 40,000. This place is incredibly loud, and you’d be hard pressed to find an empty seat. Games are sold out weeks or even months in advance for Texas volleyball, and sellout crowds mean the noise is amplified that much more. Perhaps what makes the fans here so incredible is their energy and fervor. Every play has a chant, every situation has a cheer, and every fan knows them all. Truly immersing yourself in the atmosphere here includes appreciating the fan base that shows up, from the lower-level student section to the loudest fan in the top-most row of seats in the end zones. But most of all, this is a very family friendly atmosphere – everyone here is friendly and welcoming, and everyone is respectful of visiting fans and those around them.   Access   3 Parking is easily the most difficult aspect of going to Texas volleyball matches. Unless you have a campus parking pass for various areas near the gymnasium, parking for fans is located in the Speedway Garage ($8-$10) or the Brazos Garage ($15) via the Park Mobile app, or using an on-site credit card payment. Once parked, it is a nearly 10-15 minute walk through the heart of campus to get to Gregory Gymnasium.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets are incredibly hard to come by for Texas volleyball games, with most matches selling out far ahead of the date. If you’re able to get your hands on a ticket, however, you’ll be pleased to learn that prices start at just $12. Couple that with affordable parking and incredibly cheap concessions, and you have the perfect recipe for affordable volleyball in one of the best venues around.   Extras   4 The entrance hall to Gregory Gymnasium features large posters of the players on the team, as well as trophy cases for the program. Once inside, fans walk past a giveaway table, complete with posters, as well as fan cheer and chant guides for you to be able to follow along with everything going on. There is a rather large and impressive team store set up down in the lower level behind the band seating, giving you access to the latest Texas Volleyball swag. Championship banners line the rafters inside Gregory Gymnasium, reminding fans of the deep history Texas volleyball has.   Final Thoughts There is little doubt of the magic Texas volleyball fans experience on a nightly basis inside Gregory Gymnasium – the walls have forgotten more about Texas athletic history than you or I will ever learn, and the fans here are among the best in all of college sports. Undoubtedly, the energy and palpable passion here harkens back to those halcyon days of iconic college athletics the most ardent sports fans yearn for day in and day out. Perhaps, to some, this may be the highlight of the Texas athletics offerings, rivaling the offerings elsewhere on campus.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Campus Recreation Center 1 Old Ferry Road Bristol, RI 02809 Roger Williams Hawks men's basketball website Campus Recreation Center website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 1,200 Roger Williams Hawks Hoops   Roger Williams was a Puritan minister, theologian and author who founded Providence Plantations in 1636. This settlement eventually became the state of Rhode Island. Williams was a staunch advocate of religious freedom, separation of church and state, and fair dealings with the local Native Americans. His Separatist views and belief that the Church of England was corrupt were deemed too radical by the Puritan leaders of Plymouth and Boston, so they expelled Williams from the Massachusetts Bay Colony.   Roger Williams University was founded in 1956 and named for Rhode Island’s founder. The school actually began operations in 1919 as the Rhode Island branch of Northeastern University before receiving its own charter from the state. The school moved to its current location in Bristol in 1969. Today, RWU’s 5,000 students study in 50 academic programs, including one of the only Marine Biology programs and one of the only Historic Preservation programs in the country. Roger Williams offers the only Juris Doctor (law degree) in Rhode Island.   The first basketball team to represent Roger Williams played in 1973. Originally a member of the NAIA, today the Hawks compete in Division Three’s Conference of New England (formerly the Commonwealth Coast Conference). The men’s program made their first Division Three Tournament appearance in 2024. The women’s team has played in three postseason tournaments, most recently in 2022.   The Hawks play at the Campus Recreation Center, which features an 8,500 square foot fitness center, an aquatics center, two dance studios, squash and racquetball courts and a field house. The main gymnasium serves as home to the men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams.   Food & Beverage 1    The Hawk’s Nest in the Campus Rec Center serves up assorted drinks (Pepsi products are featured), specialty coffees, smoothies, pastries and bagels. During the semester the Hawk’s Nest is open until 8, but the hours are a bit more limited if you’re visiting Roger Williams on a weekend or semester break. Stadium Journey visited RWU on a Tuesday afternoon during Thanksgiving week, and the snack bar was closed.   Should the Hawk’s Nest be closed during your visit, there is a vending machine in the basement level of the facility. Alas, this machine was not working during Stadium Journey’s visit. At least it didn’t take our money.   On the plus side, it looks like fans are free to bring their own refreshments into the Campus Rec Center.   Atmosphere 2   The game day atmosphere at a Roger Williams basketball game will feel pretty familiar to anyone who has visited the small college gyms that dot the country. With the limited resources and meager fan support, there’s not a lot going on here at RWU that reinvents the wheel. That’s not to say that a Hawks game is a bland or boring experience. It’s just fairly typical.   There’s a decent sound system here that plays music during play stoppages, and a PA announcer who brings some energy to the proceedings. In this bandbox of a gym, it’s easy to imagine how loud it could get here if the bleachers were packed. Much of the energy here comes from the fans in the stands, most of whom have a personal connection with the players on the court. Small scoreboards on either end of the court display basic game information. Unfortunately, there were no cheerleaders or pep band present during Stadium Journey’s visit. That, and the lack of a strong student turnout, dampen the overall atmosphere.   Neighborhood 5   Roger Williams University is located in the colonial town of Bristol, Rhode Island, a town of just over 22,000 residents. A popular summer tourist destination, Bristol is best known as the site of the oldest continuously celebrated Independence Day festivities in the United States. The first mention of a Fourth of July celebration was noted by a British officer in 1777. The town has held a parade on the Fourth every year since 1785, which annually draws in excess of 200,000 visitors.     Roger Williams University is located at the southernmost point in Bristol, occupying the land at the top of a bluff that overlooks Mount Hope Bay. The views from campus are truly spectacular. To experience the best of Bristol, downtown is less than two miles from campus. Among the notable attractions here are the Town Commons, the Herreshoff Marine Museum (five America’s Cup-winning yachts were built here) and Colt State Park. The East Bay Bike Path, which runs approximately 16 miles all the way to Providence, begins in downtown Bristol. To quote my wife, Bristol has that “Hallmark Channel feel” to the downtown area. It’s a lovely place to explore if visiting during the holiday season.   Fans looking for a place to eat after a Hawks game will find no shortage of options in the downtown area, including Brick Pizza Company and Pivotal Brewing. As you might expect in a seaside town like Bristol, excellent seafood restaurants are plentiful, including The Lobster Pot, Aidan’s Pub and Leo’s Ristorante. Lodging options in town are scarce, with the Bristol Harbor Inn the primary choice near Roger Williams. Visitors should check out the many options along I-195, especially up near Providence, or down in Newport if looking to stay in the area. Explore Bristol has more detailed information about attractions in the area.   Fans 2   Crowds at Roger Williams basketball games are what we here at Stadium Journey like to call “friends and family” crowds. Generally numbering between 100-200 fans, most of the people in the stands are connected to the players on the court in some manner. As you might expect, they can be very boisterous and knowledgeable about the team.   With the majority of Roger Williams’ schedule consisting of games against other New England teams, it’s not unusual to see a good turnout by visiting fans. At this level, you will have no worries showing up in the opposition colors.   Access 3   Let’s make this simple: there’s no easy way to get to Bristol, Rhode Island and Roger Williams University. Located on a sprawling 143 acres featuring a spectacular view of Mount Hope Bay, there are no highways that directly serve the town and only a couple of roads leading in and out of town. Interstate 195 passes by the area about ten miles from campus. If driving to Roger Williams from the north, take Route 24 from Fall River. If arriving from Providence and points west, take Route 114. Ripta ’s 60 and 61 busses serve the campus on their routes between Newport and Providence.   The Campus Recreation Center is located in the middle of campus, with the school’s other athletics facilities located nearby. There is limited parking on the east side of the gym, along with additional parking on the opposite side of the baseball field. Just be aware that the parking is a bit of a walk from the rec center, and the campus is not lit as well as perhaps it should be at night.   All seating in the Campus Rec Center consists of molded plastic bleachers on either side of the court. Fans needing accessible seating will find plenty of room at the top of the bleachers on the south side of the gym. No matter where you sit in this tiny gym, you’ll have great views of the action. Surprisingly large, clean restrooms are located just outside the entrance to the court.   Return on Investment 5   Admission to a Hawks basketball game is free. Parking is also available at no charge in the lots around campus. Since concessions may or may not be available, it’s quite possible that you won’t even reach for your wallet once while visiting Roger Williams University. Even better, if you’re visiting during the conference schedule, you’ll get two games for the price of none.   Extras 1   Banners hang on the end of the Rec Center gym honoring Hawks conference championships and tournament appearances for the men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams. Banners honoring all the 1,000-point scorers in Roger Williams basketball history are hung at the opposite end of the gym. The Rec Center lobby contains the trophies accumulated by the athletic program over the years.   Final Thoughts   Roger Williams features one of those small bandbox gymnasiums that dot the college basketball landscape across the nation. With downtown Bristol a short drive away, hoops fans who like a small-town atmosphere will love a trip to Roger Williams University.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

He is up to 115 out of 136. Andrew joins us to discuss the updated favorites and what comes next. Follow Andrew's Stadium Journeys at www.collegefootballtour.com                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio   wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Monday on our social media streaming channels.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Warrior Baseball Field 1600 E Washington Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46803 Indiana Tech baseball website Warrior Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 500 A Hidden Gem of Ballpark at Indiana Tech Warrior Baseball Field is the home of Indiana Tech baseball in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. The ballpark was constructed in 1991 when the program returned to the school. The 500-seat grandstand is wedged into a small hill with outfield views of campus dorms and cemetery over St. Anthony Blvd. in left field. It makes for an interesting backdrop at this level of college baseball. The Warriors are members of the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. The club won 9 conference championships including the last three as of this writing. There are also four retired numbers on the outfield wall, with former coach Lance Hershberger’s number 50 among them. He led the team to 390 victories in 12 years, including five straight NAIA World Series appearances, including runner-ups in 1998. Food & Beverage 0 There is no food offered at the ballpark, and it is encouraged to either eat before you arrive or bring your items to the game. There are plenty of fans in the concession area with bags from nearby fast-food restaurants, while others grab something from the cooler around spots along the perimeter of the stadium. It’s common among many NAIA ballparks not to have a concession stand, and there does not seem to be any room for one at the field. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark has an interesting design that creates various sports for watching the game. The grandstand is partially jammed into a hill and reminds me a little of Jack Burch Field in Cannon Falls, Minnesota. The fans get an upper view from behind the plate and plenty of opportunities to stomp their feet against the aluminum concourse and seating. There are plenty of grassy areas down the third-base side but are only accessible to the ballplayers who enjoy a bite in-between double-headers. A concrete porch overlooks the area where parents of the players sit on tables, set up lawn chairs, and have access to two grills. Behind the left-field wall is a long concrete bench and chairs where more fans can view the game from. There is also a large net to block balls from crashing into the dorm building. The right-field wall is decorated with Warrior tournament appearances, championship titles, and retired jersey numbers. The back of the grandstand is also decked out with school colors, logos, and player photos. The main road and cemetery are a few yards away from the outfield fence in the right field. A simple press box holds around 5-6 people in the grandstand. Grandstand and Press Box at Warrior Baseball Field, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 The private Technical University was founded in 1930 and has an enrollment of 9,652 students. It’s located less than two miles from downtown and Parkview Field , home of the High-A Ft. Wayne TinCaps. The campus is modern, compact, and offers various buildings that blend into the ballpark. However, fans should check out Summit City Brewerks a few blocks away, located in the old Wayne Buns Factory. It offers 33 beers on tap, a full-service restaurant, and plenty of pinball machines. A few traditional spots have been in town for a combined total of 195 years in business. Ft. Wayne’s Famous Coney Island opened in 1914 and has not changed much in appearance, offering it topped with meat sauce and chopped onion. The dogs taste best sitting on the wooden stool countertops with mini glass bottles of Coca-Cola. Powers Hamburger Restaurant grills up sliders with mounds of sweet onions and ranks up there with the great American hamburger. King Gyros is another popular spot that sells a barbecue gyro with grilled onions and barbecue sauce. A few other restaurants in town worth checking out include Tolon, Copper Spoon, Proximo, and The Deck. The TinCaps might be playing in the evening, or perhaps the Ft. Wayne Komets or Mad Ants are at the Allen County Memorial Coliseum. A Komets game usually includes 10,000 plus rabid fans showing that they are one of the best arenas for minor league hockey. Fans 4 The fans at the Warriors are mostly friends and family members. The chatter from the dugout is highly audible, and so are the conversations between players and fans in their seats. A few folks behind the outfield walls banter with the outfielders at times. At a game like this, many will have conversations with you about the team; if they have a son playing for Tech, and might even offer you a beer. Access 3 The Indiana Tech campus is accessible from the main streets of downtown Ft. Wayne, and there is plenty of parking for the ballpark. It is only the main entrance to the grandstand, but if you don’t want to pay the fee, there are spots down the 3rd base and left field area to watch the game with other fans. Return on Investment 3 The price of admission is $10, which is on the higher side for NAIA ballparks. For example, nearby Huntington University charges $7 at Forest Glen Park , and Marian University does not charge an admission fee for its ball games on its Indianapolis campus. Warrior Baseball Field is a pretty ballpark but does not include a concession stand, a place for university gear, or any promotions. Fans can watch the game from the third-base side or behind the left-field fence for free. Extras 3 One point for the outfield walls honoring retired numbers, past championships, and World Series appearances. A second point for the left-field seating that provides fans with a different vantage point of the baseball game that also includes a giant net to protect baseballs from crashing into the dormitories. A third point for the interesting setting of the grandstand being built into a hill and the views of the cemetery and campus buildings beyond the outfield walls. Final Thoughts Warrior Baseball Field was a place I was always told to visit by my friends in Ft. Wayne. It’s one of those hidden treats of ballparks in Indiana and can be a lot of fun if you planned it correctly. First, bring food and drink, then pick a spot down the third base or left-field wall, and enjoy with friends and family. After the game, enjoy a drink at nearby Summit City Brewerks or take in another sporting event at Parkview Field or Allen County Memorial Coliseum. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and Instagram .

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Shelton Stadium at Parramore Field 2200 Hickory Abilene, TX 79698 Hardin-Simmons Cowboys website Shelton Stadium website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 4,000 Back to Abilene Hardin-Simmons University is located on the north side of Abilene, Texas. It is one of three private universities located in this city of approximately 125,000 people. Opened as Abilene Baptist College in 1891 by the Sweetwater Baptist Association and a group of ranchers, the goal was to bring higher education to the Big Country region. Built on land donated by local rancher C. W. Merchant, and following contributions from James B. Simmons and later Mary and John G. Hardin, the school's name was eventually changed to Hardin-Simmons University in 1934. HSU currently offers over 50 undergraduate degrees, nine masters, and two doctoral programs. They have most recently added engineering and nursing (nursing was previously available through a cooperative program with other institutions) to their academic offerings. At first glance, Hardin-Simmons Football is a relatively young program, having begun NCAA Division III competition in 1990. But a deeper dive shows that the Cowboy program was one of the first in the state of Texas, playing two games in 1897. Between the years of 1897 and 1963, much of which was spent as a member of the Border Conference, they had victories over schools such as Texas Tech , Arizona State , Arizona , and Tulsa . They also played in the Sun Bowl, Shrine Bowl, and Alamo Bowl during this tenure. The school dropped its football program in 1963, citing financial losses and poor performance. In 1989, however, HSU officials voted to reinstate the football team and play at the non-scholarship NCAA Division III level beginning in the 1990 season. Since reinstating football, Hardin-Simmons has won or shared 17 conference championships and made 18 appearances in the NCAA playoffs. Their best playoff run was in 2000, when they made it to the semifinals. The Cowboys currently compete as a charter member of the American Southwest Conference, along with Howard Payne University, Mary Hardin-Baylor University , and East Texas Baptist University. Since its inception in 1996, there have been many other schools who have filtered through the conference, with the most recent shake-up being the loss of several institutions to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. What has developed since 1990 on “the forty acres” is a passionate fan base and nationally competitive football program. Saturdays at Hardin-Simmons University provide quality entertainment for many sports fans. The first three years of the modern football era were played at Parramore Stadium, named for Col. James H. Parramore (1840-1917), board member and donor to the university. By 1993 a new press box, concessions area, and expanded metal bleachers were added, so Shelton Stadium, honoring A.B. “Stormy” and Ruby Shelton, was dedicated, but the name Parramore Field remained – the Cowboys have continued to play home games in Shelton Stadium at Parramore Field since then.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at HSU games are what you would expect at a small college setting. There are no specialty food items, but most of the normal fare is available. Hot dogs, nachos, and Frito pie are all available for those wanting entrees. With the option of adding chili and/or cheese to any of these, you can find something to appease your taste buds. Snack items include chips, candy, popcorn, and pickles. Pepsi is the soft drink company of the Cowboys, so those flavors are available in two sizes of fountain drinks along with bottled water and Gatorade. For the rare cold weather game, there will be hot chocolate and coffee available. There is one concession stand located below the home stands. There are multiple windows, some marked as cash only and others allowing both cash and card purchases. At the most recent game I attended, the cash line was noticeably shorter, so taking a little extra money might help move you through the concession area quicker.   Atmosphere   5 The game day atmosphere is fun and family friendly. HSU hosts a pregame pep rally and tailgate event approximately three hours before the game, and the public is invited. Tailgating is also allowed in and around the stadium. With a long-running history of successful football seasons, Hardin-Simmons has a loyal fan base. HSU has events unrelated to football that tie their alumni back into the culture and daily life of the campus, so there are many former students who attend most every Cowboy game. Factor in a football program with nearly 100 developmental team participants, and there is a built-in, large home crowd present and active at every game. The PA announcer is animated with vocal inflections, stressing first downs and touchdowns – for example when HSU scores he proclaims “annnnd the thunnnnnnderrrrrr roooollls in the STORM SHELTER” as the crowd stomps their feet. Enhancing the experience is a large videoboard and a loud, clear speaker system. Adding to the atmosphere is The World Famous Cowboy Band , which was formed in 1923. Dressed in full western attire including leather chaps and cowboy hats, the band has performed for six presidential inaugurations and eleven governors through the years, as well as at numerous rodeos and parades annually. The band is well known for its rowdy performance, quick marching cadence, and choreographed “cow step” while whooping and waving their hats. They perform on the field during halftime. In addition to the band, HSU fields a nationally ranked dance team known as The Spurs. The Spurs perform at halftime with the Cowboy band playing the dance team’s backup music. The crowd at the game I last attended was packed and raucous. In addition to being senior day, the game was for the conference lead and guaranteed play-off berth with rival Mary Hardin-Baylor . The home stands were full and both end zones were filled with standing room only fans, who were cheering and chanting as the game went on. The student sections at HSU has specific, choreographed cheers for the Crusaders when plays go favorably for the Cowboys.   Neighborhood   4 The neighborhood around HSU’s campus is an older, lower-middle class neighborhood – most of the houses near campus have been occupied by families for many years or are rental property. As houses and lots come up for sale, the university is purchasing them in an effort to expand the school’s footprint. Just to the south of campus is Hendrick Hospital - North Campus, along with multiple doctor’s offices and support services. There are no hotels within walking distance of campus, but several options are less than three miles north, along Interstate 20. Just a couple of suggestions are Holiday Inn North College Area  and Hampton Inn and Suites I-20 , but many of the hotels within a few miles of campus are very nice for the price. Pre or post-game meal choices are limited within blocks of the stadium, but there are a few options. Blue Agave Mexican Kitchen , Texas Flaming Grill , Los Arcos , and Armando’s  all provide good food within a mile of campus. One must eat location is Jay’s BBQ , which is just 3 miles from campus; Jay’s is open from 11am to 2 pm with excellent BBQ and different daily specials. There are also several excellent restaurants downtown, just over two miles south of campus. If fast food is desired, Taco Bell , Subway , and Church’s Chicken are all within a mile of the school in different directions. A new Braum’s, located at the corner of Ambler and Simmons, is expected to open in early 2025. There are many more fast food and restaurant options approximately three miles east on Ambler Avenue along Judge Ely Boulevard, as well as further out around the Interstate 20/Ambler (HWY 351) intersection. For nightlife there are a few bars downtown, some of which play live music on weekends. These include KAO Lounge , The Ice House , Grain Theory , and Fat Boss’s Pub . Other options for adult beverages and entertainment include   Mulligans Sports Bar Grill and Golf , Lucky Shot Bar and Arcade , Buffalo Wild Wings , and Hooters . When visiting Abilene, family entertainment options to consider include Abilene Zoo , Frontier Texas , National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature , Grace Museum , and Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame .   Fans   5 HSU fans are a supportive group – they arrive early, fill the stands, and are active during games. The chairback section of the home stands is filled with season ticket holders, some of whom have been attending Cowboy games since 1993. The students attending games are vocal as well; whether in the student section of the stands or in the end zone, they cheer loudly. Fans at the game I most recently attended had painted faces, wore homemade thematic t-shirts, and carried signs and banners showing their support. There were also a couple of “super fans” in attendance, such as a gentleman and his elementary-aged protege dressed in full western attire, including cowboy hat and leather chaps, who ran the length of the home stands carrying an HSU flag and encouraging the crowd to raise their voices in support.   Access   4 Shelton Stadium is located at the corner of Simmons Avenue and Vogel Avenue, behind the Mabee Athletic Complex on campus. Getting into Shelton Stadium is not difficult, however there is no direct access off Ambler Avenue due to recent construction. Therefore, access to parking is either through campus using the main entrance, turning east on Vogel Avenue off Grape Street, or heading west on either Vogel Avenue or Lowden Street off Pine Street. Any of those choices will direct fans into ample free parking within a short walk of the gate. There are entry gates on both sides of the facility – visitor tickets are available at the southeast gate, while home side tickets can be purchased at the southwest ticket booth. Once inside there is access between the home and visitor sides via the south end zone.   Return on Investment   4 With chairback reserved seats costing $10 and general admission only $5, the price is a bargain. The quality of football that will be on display will more than likely include at least one top 25 ranked team, and many times both teams are well coached, high caliber teams. Concessions, while not fancy, are sufficient and well-priced. Entree items cost $6 or less, while fountain soft drinks are $4 or $5, Gatorade and water are $2, and the snacks are all $4 or less; these prices are well within the range you would expect to pay at a football game at the college level. Figuring the affordability of tickets and concessions, free parking, plus the high level football and entertainment, as well as the excitement of the band and student section, the ROI is high for HSU Cowboy football.   Extras   4 The concession stand has cash only lines in addition to cash/card lines; the ability to move more quickly if you are using cash is worth special recognition. The Cowboy band is also worth an extra point – they are highly entertaining and bring a historic bridge between the past and today. Their musicianship is also high level, but the spectacle they provide is what carries the show. The PA Announcer adds an extra plus to your visit. Whether it’s encouraging the crowd to celebrate another Cowboy first down, or the previously mentioned touchdown chant, the game is enhanced by the announcer’s input. Student engagement and crowd involvement illicit more additional points – I’ve visited several stadiums, at many different levels, and Hardin-Simmons crowd involvement is better than any I‘ve visited thus far.   Final Thoughts Football fans in Texas have plenty of choices when it comes to quality football venues. On fall Saturdays within a few hundred miles of Abilene, there are no less than 15 colleges and universities playing a football game. In addition, just within the city limits of Abilene itself there are two NCAA D-III programs and one NCAA FCS football team. Choosing which games to attend can be difficult at times, but Hardin-Simmons has done nearly everything possible to make their home games the no-brainer choice. With the affordability and return on investment, the quality of play and the level of entertainment, HSU football games are well worth the few hour time investment required. The experience at HSU Cowboy football is well worth the cost, and you are sure to be entertained. Bring cash and your trip through the concession line will most definitely go quicker. I would highly encourage placing the Hardin-Simmons Cowboys on your bucket list of football games to attend.

A small Indiana town between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne is the center of college basketball one night in December. The annual Taylor University Silent Night Game is not your typical college basketball game. The small Christian college in Upland has an enrollment of 2,376 plus, but it becomes the center of attention on a frigid December night. The Silent Night Game might be one of the best traditions you have never heard about. It began in 1997, but students have attended the game in pajamas since the late 1980s. Students camp out days before the game to secure a prime spot inside the gym; once they are allowed to enter on game day, they are dressed in elaborate costumes. Students are dressed up as burgers, Krispy Kreme employees, highlanders, ducks, and Minions. The rest of the general admission ticket holders wait inside the lobby before they find a seat an hour before the game. The festivities include students taking shots and dunks on the open net, singing in unison, and showing off their light bracelets.  When the game begins, the gymnasium is quiet except for players' sneakers squeaking on the court. No one peeps until the 10th point is scored; when it happens, the entire student section storms the court in celebration. It is a spectacular scene with the multiple colors of the costumes dripping onto the basketball court. After everything is over, the students go back to their seats, and the game begins, with cheering and screaming from the entire audience. Taylor’s opponent was Moody Bible College, who looked more like the Washington Generals at times during the game. The Trojans had a series of dunks and fast-break plays that excited the crowd, which remained active throughout the night. Several students run onto the court during timeouts to put on small skits, students sing renditions of popular songs, and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb makes an appearance during halftime. The students surrounding the court are about three rows deep and hover as close to the court as possible.  The game ends with the singing of “Silent Night” in the final minutes of the game. The entire building sings shoulder-to-shoulder the traditional Christmas song that caps off a magical night on the campus of Taylor University.  Taylor has an impressive 26-1 record, and The Silent Night tradition is more than just a basketball game—it’s a testament to the power of community, the creativity of students, and the joy of shared experiences. It stands out in the landscape of college sports for its combination of humor, celebration, and reverence. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com