Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 MU Ballpark 3200 Cold Spring Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46250 Marian University website MU Ballpark website Year Opened: Unknown Capacity: 500 Small Town College Baseball in Indianapolis Marian University was founded as a teacher training school in 1851 by the Sisters of St. Francis. It would become a four-year university after it merged with Immaculate Conception Junior College to form Marian College. On July 1, 2009, Marian College became Marian University. The baseball program began in 1955 and joined the Mid-Central Conference of the Crossroads League for the 1987-88 academic year. The ball club captured 8 regular-season titles, 2 tournament titles and has made 10 NAIA regional appearances and 3 National Tournament appearances. Marian University Ballpark has seen improvements in the past decade with a new scoreboard in 2008, safety nets and additional fencing in 2014, and most new windscreens showing the latest information on university athletics. It has been described as one of the more traditional ballparks in all of collegiate baseball. Let’s find out more about the home of the Marian Knights. Food & Beverage 0 There appears to be a concession stand at the bottom of the press box, but it was closed during our visit, despite the temperature being 70 degrees on a Saturday afternoon. It is unknown if this is closed permanently, especially considering the country is still coming off a worldwide pandemic. Most of the fans in attendance brought their food from home or a nearby fast-food restaurant-a common sight for ballparks of this size and caliber. Atmosphere 3 It was a beautiful 70-degree day in early March and the first ideal day for baseball in Indiana since September. There was a nice crowd was on hand for the doubleheader that included: fans in the grandstand, folks down both foul lines, and a few students behind the left-field fence. The grandstands were notable as being constructed out of wood instead of the usual aluminum style. The home side is more extensive than the visiting side on the first baseline. The ballpark features lighting, a Daktronics scoreboard behind left field, a two-story press area, and batting cages that feature end zone turf from the football field. The view behind the outfield walls is of the multiple buildings on campus that give it a cozy, little field to the venue. A PA announcer does a great job of player announcements throughout the 9-innings. As with many ballparks of this caliber, the players in the dugout provided a steady flow of ambiance from chatter, clapping, and good old-fashion ribbing. The two dugouts are lined up against the fence, hoping for either a big hit or an out-depending on the inning. There are also plenty of fans in the stands that provide a lot of chatter, usually from a family member showing support. Neighborhood 3 Marian University is 6 miles north of downtown along the White River. The area near the school features a collection of retail chains and local establishments, but your best bet would be to head downtown or Speedway, a 4-mile drive. Speedway is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway , and the downtown area has improved over the past few years. Besides being home to the Indy 500, fans can enjoy the IMS Hall of Fame and Museum throughout the year. A few spots of interest include the 1911 Grill that overlooks two indoor kart tracks offering American pub food. Bourbon and Barbecue serve smoked Memphis-style brisket and pork and features an impressive array of bourbon. Big Woods and Daredevil Brewing are great spots for local-craft beer and cuisine. Downtown Indy offers many spots, but I would recommend Mass Ave. or Fountain Square for a collection of local restaurants, bars, breweries, and the Bottleworks District that offers The Garage, an upscale and adult-friendly food court with regional and world cuisine and drinks. The former Coca-Cola bottling plant also houses a bowling alley, hotel, and movie theater. Fans 3 The majority of fans at the game were friends and family from both clubs. It was a beautiful day to be outside, and many took advantage of the record-setting temperature for early March. However, when the temperature dropped a few days later, the number of fans presumably diminished. Access 2 The ballpark is on campus but has a very unorthodox setup. The parking lot is located on the right side of the field, separated by a small road that is filled with fans before the game and after. This area leads to the grandstands, but parts of the road are uneven, providing for some difficulties for people with walking disabilities. Return on Investment 3 All games are free of charge, and one cannot complain about that. The wooden bleachers provide a nice spot to watch the game, or one can set up a seat and enjoy the view from the perimeter of the diamond. It would be wise to bring food to the game and pick a date against a local university: Huntington University, Taylor University, or Indiana Wesleyan. Fans travel well in this league and provide the best experience to the game. Extras 2 The wooden bleachers were different and added, as one fan described as, a little character to the venue. The campus is pretty and worth a walk around if you have the time - it also adds a nice backdrop. Final Thoughts MU Ballpark proves that there is always a ballpark nearby. When the weather is ideal, there is no reason why someone would not want to enjoy nine-inning baseball. The tickets are free, the baseball is fine, and you will probably enjoy yourself having a good talk with your fellow fans. However, don’t come to the game hungry – bring some food. Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and on Instagram .

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 PVCC Baseball Field 18401 N 32nd St Phoenix, AZ 85032 Paradise Valley Pumas website PVCC Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 250+ Take a PAWS Opened in 1985, Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC)’s main campus sits in northeast Phoenix and northern Maricopa County, including Cave Creek, Carefree, and North Scottsdale. The athletic teams, known as the Pumas, are part of the NJCAA – Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC). The baseball team joined the ACCAC in 2009 and is one of the newest members of the conference. The team qualified for the NJCAA D2 World Series in just their second season (2010) and were the ACCAC Co-Champions in 2015. They play their home games on campus at the pleasant-looking, comfortable baseball field, built in 2008. The first official baseball season began in the spring of 2009. Food & Beverage 0 As expected for a community college, neither food nor beverages are offered at the venue. That does not stop the fans in attendance as many bring in their own snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and coolers. Some even bring umbrellas and portable canopy tents and make an afternoon out of it! Atmosphere 3 The ballpark provides the typical, pleasurable ACCAC game day experience. The main seating area, the grandstand per se, is ten rows of bleachers with no backs directly behind home plate. A thick chain link fence with thicker poles guards the seating area from the sharply hit foul balls. The best place to sit is on the top row; fans can lean their backs against a backing for support and that area is above the backstop’s horizontal poles. Picnic tables and a four-row bleacher set are on each side of the grandstand. Many fans bring their lawn chairs and park in those areas as they are in the shade. Third base side picnic seating, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The grandstand was not an original part of the baseball field construction. It was added a few years after the opening and is a shiny set of refurbished stands. The stadium does not have lights; the team only plays day games, common amongst ACCAC baseball stadiums. The home dugout is on the third base side and is larger than the visitor’s dugout. The stadium has a small Daktronics scoreboard in right-center field providing the basic line score. It can be a little difficult to read in the bright sunlight. The diamond is of remarkably green natural grass for the desert so kudos to those that maintain the field. The seating area and walkways are free of debris and garbage making it a nice, pleasant venue to visit. Music is only played pregame; none during the nine innings which helps make watching the game more relaxing. If a softball game is played at the same time, plenty of that game’s music is heard. A PA announcer is not present to call the game or players. Print your own rosters at home if you’re looking to keep score and identify the players by something other than their number. Neighborhood 3 Paradise Valley Community College is in the northern part of Phoenix in a mostly residential area with some commercial businesses within walking distance. A great place to eat for breakfast or brunch is Sunshine Breakfast Bar (three miles from PVCC Baseball Field). Another place to eat nearby is NoRa Asian Fresh , a fast-casual AZ chain restaurant serving Asian Fusion meals. Across from the campus are The Buffalo Spot (fast food chicken) and Biryani and Bites (Indian). The closest brewery is Fire and Fury , three miles from the park south on 32nd St. If traveling in from out of town, the closest hotels are the Cambria Hotel Phoenix or the Holiday Inn Express Phoenix North (both four miles from the baseball field). Be warned: hotel rates in the Phoenix area increase dramatically during spring training in March. The best museum in all of Arizona, the Musical Instrument Museum , is only three miles from campus. It may not sound interesting but it is a fantastic place to explore for a few hours. The campus is adjacent to the Paradise Valley Golf Course. For other sports to see, Salt River Fields at Talking Sticking (spring training home for the Rockies and Diamondbacks ) is probably the closest at about 16 miles southeast. Peoria Sports Complex (spring training home for the Mariners and the Padres ) is about the same distance in the opposite direction. Downtown Phoenix is 18 miles south and sports fans can visit the Diamondbacks or Suns when in town. Fans 3 Fans are mostly friends and family of the players: parents, grandparents. A few students show up. Many of the fans in attendance know one another. And, since several of the opposing teams are also in the Phoenix area, expect to see some visiting teams’ fans. Everyone is respectful of each other, as it often is at NJCAA games. Access 3 The ballpark is on the Paradise Valley Community College campus off 32nd Ave, a little over a mile off the101 Loop/State Route 51. The closest parking is in the Q Building lot off 32nd Ave. If the Puma’s schedule softball and baseball games for the same time frame, get there early for a spot. Additional parking is beyond the outfield off E Michigan Ave, a few hundred feet in the opposite direction of the grandstand. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is 18 miles due south. Metro Valley Transit Bus Route 16 (no stop at the airport) provides local service to the college (get off 32nd St and Grovers Ave). The baseball field is adjacent to the softball field. On occasion, both games are played at or near the same time. Fans can walk between the two ballparks and see two games if desired. The campus provides ramps and walkways from the parking lot to the grandstand. For those unsteady on their feet, the grandstand has handrails up the middle of the seating area for ease of climbing. Modern, clean restrooms are in the Q Building just a few hundred feet away. Return on Investment 5 The Pumas offer the best-priced tickets: free. If you want to be outside on a lovely Arizona spring day, pack some snacks and drinks and head to North Phoenix for a relaxing few hours of baseball. It’s a no-frills experience but one fans of the game of baseball will enjoy. Extras 2 ACCAC baseball switched to using wooden bats twenty years ago. It’s pleasing to watch college ball and hear the crack of a bat vs the ping of one. Another piece of information worth an extra mention is the current baseball coach, Victor Solis, who founded the baseball program along with the retired Athletic Director Greg Silcox. It’s nice to see continuity in the program’s history and management. Final Thoughts Take a pause from the daily hustle and bustle in life and visit a Puma baseball game one spring afternoon.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Daniel J. Sullivan IV Baseball Field 4301 Broadway St San Antonio, TX 78209 Incarnate Word Cardinals website Daniel J. Sullivan IV Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 1,000 University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals – Sullivan Field The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is the fourth-largest private university in the state of Texas. Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, nearly 100 years later the then Incarnate Word Crusaders fielded their first baseball team. Two years later, they moved into their home at Sullivan Field. Named for a UIW alum and athletics benefactor, the field would see a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by baseball Hall of Famer – and former San Antonio minor leaguer – Billy Williams . In 2004, the now Cardinals saw the biggest upgrade done to their home park with the installation of stadium lights, making night games a reality for the first-time ever in program history. Over the years, the Cardinals have seen a fair amount of success as they have marched up the rungs of the competition ladder. They have won six regular season conference championships – three in the Heart of Texas (1990, 1993, 1997), two in the Heartland (2005, 2006), and one in the Lone Star conference (2011) – and three conference tournament championships – the Heart of Texas (1997) and Heartland (2005, 2006). The Cardinals have also made five NCAA postseason regional tournaments. They have yet to match this success since moving to the Southland Conference and are on the verge of moving to the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). However, they’ve done it all from the scenic confines of Sullivan Field, a truly unique venue in college baseball. Food & Beverage 3 There is currently just one food stand located on the grounds behind the first baseline. It offers basically all your standard ballpark fare, including hot dogs ($6), sausages ($9), nachos ($8), Hot Cheetos with cheese ($8), and of course the essential peanuts ($4). They also offer various flavors of fresh-squeezed lemonades ($7), bottled sodas ($5), bottled water ($4), and beer ($8 for bottled domestic). While there is only one stand and lines do tend to form, they seem to move along pretty quickly so you shouldn’t miss too much of the action on the field. However, I do think the concessions costs (with the exception of the beer) are a little on the high side. Sullivan Field Concessions, Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 Sullivan Field is in the middle of UIW’s athletics complex – home of Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium, McDermott Convocation Center , H-E-B Field , and UIW Natatorium – which itself is in the middle of what truly is a beautiful campus. The tree-lined campus, which is known for its ornate, red-brick buildings and numerous art installations, is the embodiment of what people imagine an institution of higher learning looks like. The stadium itself, and its playing surface, is state-of-the-art and has been upgraded a few times over the years. The area beyond the outfield walls is completely wooded, not only making for a perfect batter’s eye, but also enhances the overall atmosphere and adds to the charm of the facility. In addition to the general admission bleacher seating behind home plate, there are two covered seating areas on each baseline for season ticket holders. Arguably the biggest draw in terms of atmosphere, though, is the aforementioned UIW campus that encompasses Sullivan Field. For first-time visitors, I recommend taking extra time to come to a Cardinals game early, and taking a stroll through the campus before the game. Neighborhood 4 San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the country, and one of its top tourist destinations as well. The main draw for the Alamo City is its vibrant downtown area, as this is where most of the iconic points of interest are. These include the Alamo , the River Walk , the Tower of the Americas , and the Historic Pearl . Sullivan Field and the UIW campus are a short 11-minute drive from pretty much all these attractions, down San Antonio’s famed and historic Broadway Street. However, these are just some of the attractions that the city has to offer, and just but a handful that you can find downtown. On Broadway you can also find access to two of the city’s oldest museums, the Witte Museum and McNay Art Museum , as well as the San Antonio Zoo and the San Antonio Botanical Garden . In terms of dining options, this is also a prime area of the city that you want to be in. Downtown has an incredible wealth of options for you to choose from. No matter what your tastebuds are craving and what your wallet has you budgeted for, you’re going to find it in this area. However, if you’re looking for something closer to campus, two great options to look out for are Smoke Shack BBQ + Southern Kitchen and Broadway 5050 . Smoke Shack is one of the top barbecue spots in the city, and has piled up a host of awards since its opening and has bowled visitors over with its selection of smoked meats, unique sides (brisket mac and cheese, y’all!), and signature sandwiches. In addition, Broadway 5050 has been an SA institution for decades and is a classic neighborhood hangout spot, specializing in signature burgers with beer on tap. For hotels, you could not be in a better spot if you’re heading to a game at Sullivan Field. Downtown San Antonio is – naturally – chock full of options for all budgets. With UIW being located where it is, you’re also in a prime spot if you want to escape some of the hustle and bustle of the area, but still be close enough to get to some of its attractions. One of the best bets for you just happens to be one of the highest-rated hotels in the country, Hotel Emma ; this five-star boutique hotel is less than a 10-minute drive from the baseball field. However, if you want something a little less ostentatious, Best Western Plus Downtown North is also close by. Fans 3 On my most recent visit, I went to catch a game on a weeknight. So, I came in with tempered expectations for what the crowd was going to be like. I was pleasantly surprised to see a virtually packed house at Sullivan Field to watch the game. There was – and this is just from my anecdotal evidence – a fairly large-sized group rooting on the visiting team. This only enhanced the atmosphere and energy of the crowd though. From what I can see, it looks like the Cardinals are able to significantly draw upon their alumni base for their home games, as well as tap into the current student body. This makes for a pretty good overall crowd. This is essential for baseball games, as it keeps the energy levels up during the lulls in the on-field action. Access 4 Sullivan Field and UIW are centrally located in the city, as mentioned. They’re both a 10-minute drive from the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown and a 12-minute drive from the San Antonio International Airport . This makes it pretty easy to get to when you want to catch a Cardinals game – it’s also easily accessible via Interstate 37/State Highway 281. Once you get to the campus, signage directs you toward the athletics compound. From there parking is ample and – best of all – free. You’ll find plenty of parking near the football stadium, softball field, and natatorium . Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets for Cardinals games at Sullivan Field start at $10 per person. The Cardinals play a pretty interesting non-conference schedule, so you’re sure to get some good matchups even if you go before conference play starts. This more than makes up for the ticket cost, especially if you couple that with the free parking. As mentioned, the concession prices are a little on the high side for college baseball, but are nowhere near anything like what you pay for MLB, so you’re still coming out ahead. Extras 1 There isn’t much in the way to speak of in terms of Extras at Sullivan Field. The Cardinals do have the prerequisite games in between innings (you have your trivia contests, your dizzy bat races, etc.) and things like that, but that is it. The main draws, as mentioned in the Atmosphere and Neighborhood sections, are the setting, the beauty of the UIW campus, and the attractions of the Alamo City. Wooded Landscape Beyond the Outfield Fences, Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts I’d been to the UIW campus many times over the years, but had for some reason never taken in a baseball game at Sullivan Field. Like all their facilities, the Cardinals do a first-rate job with the fan experience. Being a small, private institution, they obviously don’t have the budget of a lot of larger schools for their athletics programs, but they don’t cut corners. I think if you’re a baseball fan and you find yourself with some time in S.A., you should do yourself a favor and make your way to the UIW campus and catch a game. I think you’ll like what you see. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Wells Fargo Arena 730 3rd St Des Moines, IA 50309 Iowa Wolves website Wells Fargo Arena website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 16,110 Iowa Wolves Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa is one of three complexes (along with Hy-Vee Hall and Community Choice Convention Center) that comprise the Iowa Events Center. Located on the banks of the Des Moines River, Wells Fargo Arena opened in 2005, replacing Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium as the primary venue for sporting events and concerts in Des Moines. Since 2007, the arena is home to the Iowa Wolves of the NBA G League. The Iowa Barnstormers of the Arena Football League began play in the arena during the 2008 season and the Iowa Wild of the American Hockey League began play in the arena in 2013. The Iowa Chops of the American Hockey League also played in the arena from 2005-2009. In 2016 the arena hosted first and second round games for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. Prior to the 2015-2016 season, the arena spent $1.6 million on a brand new video board. The HD board (sitting above center court) has curved screens for easier viewing by fans all over the arena. Food & Beverage 2 Wells Fargo Arena offers food and drinks in the traditional open concourse style. Normal stadium fare is available with very little wait time. Brats and hot dogs along with popcorn and other snacks are your main options with entrees running $5-$10 and snacks $3-$5. Coke products are served throughout the arena. Also available are a litany of different beers along with wine and mixed drinks. Most items go for $10-$12. There are other concessions areas but they were all closed on this night. Perhaps for other events with bigger crowds, they would be open as well. Atmosphere 3 In addition to traditional seating, there are plenty of luxury suites overlooking the floor along with seats right on the court. Seats are padded and comfortable with cup holders on the back of all the seats. It is easy to find the score as it is available on all four sides above the lower seating bowl as well as above the court on the video board. The video board above the court also shows replays and stats throughout the game. The arena has a nice layout, which allows for quick trips to both concessions and the restrooms. Alpha, the mascot, spends the majority of the time walking through the crowd but does appear on court to throw a few items into the crowd. The arena floor is much bigger than your typical basketball court. As such, there is a big gap between the floor and the seating bowl, especially on the baselines. The view from the baseline seats are very good but with the large gap, it can be a little distracting. Neighborhood 5 Located in downtown Des Moines, Wells Fargo Arena is near many great attractions and plenty of places to eat and drink. At night, all the bridges in the area light up creating an amazing scene with the lights reflecting off the water. Across the river stands the Iowa capitol building which is an amazing building inside and out. In addition, the Iowa History Museum and Science Center of Iowa are a few blocks away. There is no shortage of great places to grab a drink or have a meal before or after the game. Directly across the street from the arena is Buzzard Billy’s. Offering up great Cajun food and plenty of drinks, Buzzard Billy’s is a popular post-game stop. The catfish is highly recommended. Just across the Grand Ave bridge on the corner of 4th St. is Zombie Burger. This ghoul-themed eatery has been getting national attention lately for its unique burger combinations. The food is great and they offer a big line of microbrews to suit any taste. No trip to Des Moines would be complete without a trip to the El Bait Shop. El Bait Shop has nothing to do with fishing. What it does have is 222 different beers on tap, which they claim is the largest selection of American craft beers in the world. In addition, they serve some great bar food. This is one of Des Moines’ more popular hangouts and well worth a visit. Whatever your tastes, you are certain to find it within a very short distance from the arena. Plenty of lodging is available downtown. Directly across the street from the arena is a Fairfield Inn and Suites along with a Comfort Inn. Fans 2 The fans are about what you would expect for an NBA G League team. There are a group of hard cores that make noise, follow the game closely, and rock their Wolves gear. You also have the casual fans that just come to see a basketball game and another group of folks that are there because their son or daughter is performing at halftime and they don’t particularly care about the game. Access 5 Wells Fargo Arena is located downtown and sits right off of I-235 making it very easy to access. Parking is available right across the street for $8. You can also park at a parking structure on Fifth and Keo for $5 and take the Skywalk (enclosed area that goes building to building that is very beneficial in the winter). On evenings and weekends metered parking is free, but downtown Des Moines is quite popular and open spots around the arena don’t last long. The concourse is very wide and there are no problems getting around. The entire building is handicap accessible. There are plenty of restrooms that are very clean and wait times for concessions are generally very short. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices generally range from $18-$36, depending on your choice of seating. The Wolves have quite a few specials throughout the season, so you can typically purchase tickets for a cheaper price if you go with their promotions. There aren’t any bad seats as there are no restricted views and even if you are sitting on one of the baselines, it is still very easy to see the game and getting refreshments or using the restroom is convenient. With average concession prices and $5-$8 parking, you can have a fun night at the game without breaking the bank. Extras 2 The arena does a good job of celebrating the accomplishments of its tenants. Banners adorn the ceiling, including the D-League championship banner that the Energy (now Wolves) won in 2011. Prior to the 2017-2018 season, the Wolves signed a single affiliation deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The team’s color scheme changed to make it similar to their northern partners and the Wolves do a great job of celebrating and promoting that relationship with Minnesota. Final Thoughts Des Moines is a great town and Wells Fargo is a nice arena. A pleasant staff and quality basketball round out what is an enjoyable game day experience. If you find yourself in Des Moines, be sure to take in a Wolves game. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram : @stadiumjwriter

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 American Bank Center 1901 North Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78401 TAMU-Corpus Christi Islanders website American Bank Center website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 8,000 Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Islanders – American Bank Center Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) began playing hoops on the Gulf Coast in 1999 as an independent Division III program before ultimately moving to the Southland Conference. In their brief existence the Islanders have made the NCAA tournament once after winning the Southland in 2007. Since then, TAMUCC has made the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament (CIT) four times (in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017); the Islanders even reached the tourney’s final in 2017. From the beginning the Islanders have called the venerable American Bank Center their home. It is also home to the Corpus Christi IceRays of the North American Hockey League and, since its construction, has basically been home to every major entertainment and sporting event to come to the coastal city. The Islanders have done a great job of marketing themselves to Corpus Christi as becoming the team for the city. With facilities like the American Bank Center, they are on their way. Food & Beverage 2 Normally the American Bank Center would score much higher in this category; however, for TAMUCC games they appear to have closed off all the concessions areas on the upper level (at least this is what I encountered during my most recent visit). This is a bit of a hassle for fans sitting up in those areas as they either must get everything before the game starts or miss in-game action. What was open for the game were the two main stands on the ground level concourse area, which sell your standard hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, soft drinks, bottled sports drinks, water, etc. The Dogfather stand sells jumbo and regular-sized hot dogs in addition to the other items listed above; it is located near the escalators that take visitors up to the second level. There is also one full bar and the Chick-fil-A stand near the main entrance. Atmosphere 3 The last game I attended happened to be Homecoming for the TAMUCC Islanders, so the atmospheric accompaniment was ramped up to a higher degree than on your typical night. This will be discussed more in the Fans section, but it definitely does play into effect here. Right off the bat, walking up to the American Bank Center I noticed way more fans than normal involved in tailgating. One of the main lots was also filled with inflatables, a petting zoo, food and drink booths, a DJ, and more for the returning alumni. Inside the arena the Islanders have banners hung up commemorating their various postseason accomplishments, both for the men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as for the volleyball team. There is also a team store set up near the main entrance for those looking to load up on TAMUCC merchandise. However, in terms of atmosphere, the main draw is the view that the American Bank Center has to offer – it looks right out over Corpus Christi Bay and visitors can get a great view from the second floor, and can even step outside for photo ops. Neighborhood 4 I have been visiting Corpus Christi for as long as I can remember. For most Texans it’s one of the first places they go for weekend getaways during the summer months. Since it’s less than a two-hour drive for most South Texans, it’s the closest beach that most can get to on regular basis, and for most the city’s North Beach is the first place they head to. It has 1.5 miles of beachfront that is lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, fishing spots, and tourist attractions. These attractions include two that are annually ranked as the most popular in Corpus Christi – the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium . Both are a short drive from the American Bank Center, and both are great options to visit before or after Islanders games. However, the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures & Educational Center is just across the parking lot from the American Bank Center; this museum honors all the cultures of Asia and allows visitors the take part in some of the finer arts of each country. In terms of dining options there are quite a few to choose from in the downtown area of Corpus Christi near the American Bank Center. The Railroad Seafood & Brewing Co. and Brewster Street Ice House are technically the closest options to the arena. Seafood, specialty burgers and sandwiches, and craft beer are on the menu at these locations. However, there are plenty of other options as you explore the area if you want something else. For lodging you will also have plenty of options, as mentioned above, since the arena is in downtown Corpus Christi. Or if you’re interested in staying on the beach, venture across Harbor Bridge – the closest hotels to the arena that way are Quality Inn & Suites On The Beach and Radisson Hotel Corpus Christi Beach . As hotels tend to fill up fast during Spring Break and the summer months, you can also check Airbnb and Vrbo for other non-hotel/motel options if that’s a route you want to go. Fans 2 The Islanders are averaging close to 1,200 fans per game this season at the American Bank Center. This ranks near the middle of the pack in the Southland Conference. For the homecoming game that I attended the attendance was up slightly from their regular numbers. Unlike in past games that I have attended, however, there was a lot more tailgating, which was good to see. Since the facility is not on campus, this all helps create that college atmosphere that is crucial for games like this. Access 3 As mentioned the American Bank Center is located right on the shore of Corpus Christi Bay (on Shoreline Drive) in downtown Corpus Christi before you cross over the famous (and sadly soon to be replaced) Harbor Bridge. As also mentioned, the city is close to a two hour-drive from San Antonio and nearly three hours from Austin, or three and a half hours from Houston. Parking is free in the multiple lots around the arena and is open for tailgaters, which is a nice perk. For those that don’t want to make the drive (while it is short), Corpus Christi International Airport does have daily flights to and from Houston (both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport) and Dallas (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport), which are huge hubs to virtually every other city in the country. If you don’t want to drive when you get there, the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority (CCRTA) , which is the city’s public transportation service, runs a bus line that makes drops at the American Bank Center. You’ll just need to either check the CCRTA website or download their app for schedule times. Return on Investment 3 Single-game tickets for Islanders games at the American Bank Center start at $11 per person for general admission seating. This was a little higher for the game I attended due to it being homecoming, but on a regular night, $11 is the starting price. Concessions prices are pretty much on par with what you’d expect to pay at a minor league facility; nothing was more than $6 except for premium alcoholic beverages. With parking being free though, sports fans are getting quite a bargain in a great venue if they choose to catch an Islanders game at the American Bank Center. Extras 2 Like most college programs, TAMUCC brings a lot of their traditional game day activities with them to the American Bank Center. The Islanders bring along the Islander Spirit Team (their dance squad), their cheerleaders , and the Islanders Pep Band . The band can be seen playing behind one of the goals and heckling any unfortunate opposing player trying to shoot a free throw, as well as leading the home crowd in the “Shakas Up” chant when their team is shooting on the other end. TAMUCC Pep Band, Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey The Islanders did retire their costumed mascot in 2021 after some controversy and have not replaced it. Not having that extra bit of interaction does detract from the overall atmosphere at a college game. Final Thoughts The American Bank Center is a great venue. TAMUCC, as mentioned, has done what they can to make the Islanders the top sports attraction in the city. The team has been very competitive in recent years and that has helped with the atmosphere. With the costs relatively low and the location, if you find yourself on the Texas Gulf Coast and looking for something to do, you can’t go wrong with catching an Islanders game at the American Bank Center. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Ave Peoria, AZ 85382 Seattle Mariners Spring Training website Peoria Sports Complex website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 12,518 Seattle Spring Training in Peoria The Seattle Mariners have always held their spring training in Arizona. First at Tempe Diablo Stadium from 1977 – 1993, then moved to the Peoria Sports Complex when it opened in 1994. The complex is the first MLB spring training facility shared by two teams, the norm today. The San Diego Padres also use the complex for their spring training facility. The Arizona Fall League Peoria Javelinas also make Peoria Sports Complex its home. Baseball uses the venue for extended spring training and instructional leagues throughout the year. The city holds other private and community events and festivals at the complex. NPB (Nippon Professional Baseball) Nippon-Ham Fighters and KBO (Korean Baseball Organization) Doosan Bears , Lotte Giants and NC Dinos have used the facility for their spring training in the past. Peoria Sports Complex is owned and managed by the city of Peoria and is a favorite amoungst spring training travellers. Most of the game day personnel consists of extremely helpful and friendly volunteers of the Peoria Diamond Club whose efforts raise funds for local youth charities and organizations. Remember to purchase a 50/50 raffle at the game to help with their admirable purpose. Food & Beverage 5 Hungry Mariner fans will find all the traditional stadium fare and then some at the ballpark. Permanent concession stands, tempting food trucks and kiosks populate the inner and outer concourse. Hot dogs, sausage, chicken tenders, burgers, fries, etc. run $9.50 – $12. Popcorn, nachos, pretzels, peanuts, Cracker Jack, chips, and candy are all for sale. A value meal – a jumbo hot dog, chips, and small soda is $11. Other yummy offerings include rice and noodle bowls ($13), Salsa street tacos, burritos and margaritas, Chicago hot dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, Haymaker BBQ and pulled pork or chicken ($14). Craft beer choices are found in tents and carts along the outfield with local Four Peaks, California-based Alesmith, PizzaPort, and others for sale. If you’re a craft beer connoisseur, we suggest you stroll and visit some of these outfield choices. Sodas (Pepsi brands) cost $5.75/$8 with a souvenir refill a $1. Beer sells for $12 – $16 in cans and on draft. The prices listed do not include tax. Atmosphere 5 Peoria Sports Complex is the perfect place for spring ball. The game day operation staff posts the starting lineups on whiteboards near the home plate and the outfield entrances. They play vintage baseball video clips on the video board when the gates open. And they play baseball music like ‘Put Me in Coach’ and the like. A perfect start to a spring training game! The music volume level is perfect and is mostly turned off when the PA announcer talks. Music is only played between batters and innings, none during at-bats and between pitches, which is a relief. The music person does play music when the announcer calls the starting lineup, but fans can still hear the announcer. The stadium boasts an easy-to-read scoreboard; it is the best in the Cactus League. The words are big enough that fans can read them without binoculars; the scoreboard displays both lineups (player’s name, number, and position). It highlights the player at the plate and indicates the inning’s previous plays. It shows the line score, balls, outs, strikes, and the pitch MPH. Advertisements are not broadcast during play, only between ½ innings and those tend to be local sponsors. The scoreboard provides games like a hat shuffle between innings to help entertain the crowd. Fans can stroll the entire circumference of the stadium, including a small bridge (overpass) down the first baseline. The Mariners dugout is on the third base side. Seats are blue stadium fold-down seats on three levels with a walkway between the first two. The seats have plenty of legroom but are a tad narrow. The upper rows in the infield get shade first. Bleachers are down the first baseline in the second level. A thin net suspends to the ends of dugouts. The last three or four seating sections are net free. Plenty of berm seating is available in the outfield. Fans can peer over the bullpens in the berm area. Built in 2016, the Colonnade, on the third base side, is an indoor space for groups and events to enjoy the game. Finally, a unique feature at Peoria Sports Complex is the splash pad. It is a play area shaped like a ship with misting fans, picnic tables, and a small baseball field. Kids have a great time here. Neighborhood 5 The stadium is in the heart of the P83 Entertainment District in Peoria, AZ, a northwest suburb of Phoenix. Retail, restaurants, hotels, apartment and office complexes, movie theaters, and more shopping all abound next to the stadium, mostly on the north side. Over 15 restaurants, bars, and fast food are within a block or two. Many are chain restaurants if that’s what you prefer. However, we recommend The Social on 83rd (good for weekend brunch). Get 10% off if you show a spring training ticket stub. We also suggest Pho For Days (Vietnamese) and Revolu Modern Taqueria + Bar (Mexican). Besides shopping, both a Harkins and an AMC movie theater are nearby, as is an Air Trampoline and Adventure Park for those a little more adventurous. If you’re looking to get in a few easy steps, take a stroll (or bike ride) on New River Trail . Downtown Phoenix is around 20 miles. Several hotels are within walking distance. The LaQuinta Inn & Suites is the closest. A Hampton Inn , Comfort Suite, and Residence Inn are .3 miles from the park. Keep in mind that prices for hotels almost double during the spring training season. Stay an extra day or two and watch the San Diego Padres spring training as they also use Peoria Sports Complex. Surprise Stadium (Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers) is 10 miles west, and Camelback Ranch (LA Dodgers and Chicago White Sox) is about 10 miles south. Fans 3 Mariners’ fans are a good bunch and are generally a peaceful crowd. And while the fans at the game of this review were not many, they cheered and demonstrated plenty of passion when the M’s and the opposing team made great plays. They certainly appreciate their players. You’ll still see plenty of Ichiro, Griffey, and Martinez jerseys and shirts in the stands. The team is about midway in Cactus League average attendance over the last several years (not counting 2020 and the limited capacity in 2021). Access 4 The city and organization have done some marvelous things related to getting in and moving around the venue. However, Bell Road / 83rd Ave is still a traffic mess leaving an afternoon game. First, parking is free. Helpful attendants point you to the right spot as you enter the parking lot. Second, the venue still has hard copy tickets. Third, the concourses are wide open (especially in the outfield) offering easy and roomy movement. Finally, and it’s a simple thing but quite effective, signs indicating bag regulations focus on what IS allowed, not what is NOT allowed. That positive aspect makes fans feel much more welcome. (Clear sports stadium bags are allowed.) Restrooms are plenty and clean (at least the ladies). The stadium is a 30-min or so drive from Sky Harbor Airport. Public transportation is not easily available from the airport; riders need to make multiple transfers, and travel time takes close to 2 ½ hours. Once you’re there, it’s fantastic. It’s pretty much a nightmare exiting the stadium and onto Bell Rd / 83rd Ave. Harvest your inner patience when leaving the ballpark. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are comparable to other spring training venues. The Mariners have Dog Days (dog admission ($5) goes towards canine charities), and Sundays are Kid’s Days. Military receive ticket discounts. The team notes several dates as Hometown Heroes games. Concessions are priced similarly to other ballparks in the area. Parking is free. The team, the city, the Peoria Diamond Club volunteers, et al. do such a fantastic job at making spring training fans feel welcome and comfortable. Definitely put the Mariners on the list when visiting Cactus League stadiums. Extras 4 Several other items are worth noting. The Mariners have a respectable merchandise shop with plenty of room to maneuver. It is next to the home plate entrance and opens before the start of the game. And a satellite merchandise stand sits along the outfield concourse. The fifteen flags of each team in the Cactus League run across the batter’s eye. While this is not unique to Peoria, not all the spring training parks in Arizona have this. The tent, carts and stands offering craft brews on tap along the outfield are worth an extra mention. Finally, the scoreboard is remarkably informative and simple for any baseball fan. Final Thoughts The Cactus League is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2022. While the Seattle Mariners have not been in existence that entire time, the team has always played in Arizona. The Mariners have made Peoria Sports Complex its spring home since the venue opened in 1994. Although not one of the newer stadiums in Arizona, it still has one of the best game day experiences in the spring.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Jim Houlihan Park 441 E. Fordham Rd. Bronx, NY 10458 Fordham Rams website Jim Houlihan Park website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 1,000 Fordham Rams Baseball at Houlihan Park Jack Coffey Field was renamed Houlihan Park in 2006 following an extensive $4.3 million renovation which included lights. The park was named after Jim Houlihan class of 74. He and his family pledged $1 million to the baseball program. In 2012, Houlihan Park got another new addition with a full-color video scoreboard, made by Daktronics. The new display has the ability to show video, in game statistics and more. In summer 2014, the surface of Houlihan Park (FieldTurf) was replaced, while a new outfield wall and batting cage area (behind right field) were installed. In addition, a Daktronics sound system was installed on top of the scoreboard. Houlihan Park hosted the Atlantic 10 championship in 2006, 2012, 2016, 2019 and will host again in May 2022. Fordham won the championship in 2019. The dimensions are 338 to left, 325 to right field and 400 to center. Food & Beverage 0 There is no concession stand at Houlihan Park. In the past there was a small table that sold soda and water, and it may be there for certain games. There is no alcohol allowed since Houlihan Park is on a college campus. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere is mellow. Attendance is typically less than 100 with mostly friends and family of the players on hand. The players walk up to music and music is played in between innings. There are four sections of bleachers with backs behind home plate with 6 rows of seats behind protective netting. There are also the football bleachers in the outfield as Houlihan Park overlaps the football stadium. The scoreboard is nice, but a bit far from the seats for its size. Neighborhood 3 The 85-acre campus, while set in the Bronx, feels like a suburban setting with plenty of trees and greenery. Visitors often forget they are in the middle of a city until hearing an occasional horn or siren from outside the gate. The University also boasts an impressive church built in 1845. The campus borders the New York Botanical Garden, with the Bronx Zoo located just a few blocks from campus. Visitors to the area looking for places to eat during their trip to Fordham have a wide array of choices. Fans should head over to Arthur Avenue and surroundings where several fantastic Italian restaurants can be found in addition to some great bakeries. A few of my favorites restaurants include Roberto’s, Antonio’s and Tra Di Noi. If pizza is your preference try Pugsley’s on 191st Street. Fans 2 Attendance is typically around 100 with mostly students, family and friends of the players on hand. The fans were appreciative of the Rams as Fordham turned two double plays on this visit. Access 3 Fordham University is located right in the middle of the Bronx, only a few miles from Interstates 95 and 87, as well as the Bronx River Parkway. Public transportation is a good option to get to Fordham. The Metro North Railroad out of Grand Central Station or coming down from Westchester or Connecticut has a Fordham stop next to the campus. The D line of the NYC subway system is located about a 12-minute walk from campus. In addition, city buses stop regularly just outside the gate. If driving, there is a large parking garage ($20) on campus, located a short walk from Houlihan Park. Fans can get lucky and find a few free spots on Southern Boulevard and another spot to park for free on weekends is 191st Street and then enter through the Bathgate Avenue entrance. Return on Investment 3 There is no charge for admission so if you find free parking an afternoon of free entertainment makes for an enjoyable day. Extras 3 There is an impressive plaque as you enter the facility along the third base side which honors all of Fordham’s baseball family elected to the school’s Hall of Fame. There are also eight individual plagues of legendary Fordham alums including Vin Scully, Walter O’Malley and Frankie Frisch. Fordham Hall of Fame Plaques, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts There is plenty to do in the area before or after to add to the experience. The campus, with its Gothic architecture, ivy-covered buildings and expansive lawns, makes Rose Hill one of New York City’s most attractive college campuses.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 William Neal Reynolds Coliseum 2411 Dunn Ave Raleigh, NC 27607 North Carolina State Wolfpack website William Neal Reynolds Coliseum website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 5,500 A “New” Home for Women’s Basketball at Historic Reynolds Coliseum Reynolds Coliseum first opened in 1949 as the home of the NC State men’s basketball team. For much of its early life, Reynolds was the largest basketball arena in the southeast with a capacity of 12,400. Due to its size, Reynolds hosted the first 13 ACC tournaments from 1954-1966. Reynolds has also hosted NCAA regionals eight times. It has been the home to two NCAA men’s National Championship teams as the NC State men’s team won it all in 1974 and 1983. Famous coaches Everett Case, Norm Sloan, and Jim Valvano have all lead their teams at Reynolds Coliseum. During its heyday, Reynolds was one of the toughest home courts for visiting teams in the country. Former UNC player and current head coach Hubert Davis said, “The toughest place I ever played was Reynolds Coliseum. Cameron Indoor Stadium didn’t even come close…”. In 1999, the men’s team left their on-campus home to the larger and more luxurious PNC Arena across town. Reynolds now is the home of the women’s basketball team, the wrestling team, and the gymnastics team. In 2018, the newly renovated Reynolds Coliseum was renamed James T. Valvano Arena at William Neal Reynolds Coliseum in honor of the former men’s basketball coach. Food & Beverage 4 Reynolds Coliseum offers many concession choices to keep you well fed at the game. These include hot dogs ($4), Chick-fil-A Sandwich ($7), pulled pork sandwich ($7), and chicken club wrap ($7). Snack items include popcorn ($5), nachos ($5), cotton candy ($5), peanuts ($4), candy ($3), and Howling Cow Ice Cream ($3), which is made at the NC State Dairy. Bottled Coke products, including Dasani water and Powerade, are available for $4. Alcoholic beverages are also available. These include: Coors Light and Michelob Ultra ($8), Corona Extra ($10), Truly Wild Berry ($10), Wicked Weed Pernicious ($10), and Babe Wine ($10). Keep in mind that cash is not accepted at Reynolds Coliseum. Atmosphere 5 Reynolds Coliseum was originally built in 1949, so from the exterior it resembles the historic basketball arena that it is. It was built as a long and narrow building with several seating sections far away from the action. However, a $35 million renovation in 2016 pushed the court to one end of the building and created a Hall of Fame and Grand Hall in one end of the building. While this reduced capacity from 8,300 to 5,500, it created an intimate experience with all the seats right on top of the action. There is a lower level on each sideline with 4 rows of courtside seats. The upper level is designed in a horse-shoe, with pull out bleachers on the end zone side below the Grand Hall. Standing at the top of these bleachers in the Grand Hall offers a great view of the action. There is a four-sided center hung video board that provides the score and replays. There are also several ribbon boards around the arena. The NC State pep band provides a great atmosphere throughout the game, as well as, Mr. and Mrs. Wuf mascots that make their rounds taking pictures with children, etc. Due to recent renovations, there is not a bad seat in the house. However, keep in mind that sections K and L and not chair back. The rest of the seats except for the student section (sections D-F) are. Reynolds Coliseum is also the home to the NC State Athletics Hall of Fame. This is located on the main concourse underneath the upper seating level. It features pictures, videos, trophies, retired jerseys, etc from all NC State sports teams throughout the years. Depending on events, this Hall of Fame is open to the public Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early to check this out. Neighborhood 4 Since Reynolds Coliseum is located on campus, there are no eateries within walking distance of the arena. There are three can’t miss restaurants within a couple miles of Reynolds Coliseum. If you are looking for something quick before or after the game, Cook-Out is the place for you. It is located down the street from campus on Western Boulevard and is famous for its “trays” which feature a burger (or chicken sandwich), two sides, and a drink for less than $10. Amedeo’s Italian Restaurant is also located on Western Boulevard and was started by a former Wolfpack football player. There is a large variety of NC State memorabilia located at each booth, and their Italian food is some of the best in the area. Another popular local restaurant is Mitch’s Tavern, located on Hillsborough Street across from campus. Part of the movie Bull Durham was filmed at Mitch’s; it is where the initial meeting between Kevin Costner and Tim Robbins was filmed. Being located in Raleigh, there is no shortage of other activities to participate in when visiting the city. A good activity before or after a game would be to take the short drive to downtown Raleigh and take a stroll around the state Capitol. The North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Science are both located within a block of the state Capitol. The closest hotel to campus is Aloft Raleigh, located across the street from the NC State Bell Tower. Aloft is a relatively new hotel and gives you easy access to both the NC State campus and downtown Raleigh. Fans 4 Coming off back to back Sweet 16 appearances, an Elite Eight appearance in 2022, and back to back to back ACC championships, fan support for the Wolfpack Women’s basketball program is at an all time high. Expect crowds of 4000+ for most games and near sellouts for the majority of ACC games. Due to its size and full crowds, Reynolds is loud and raucous. Chants of “WOLF” and “PACK” break out routinely throughout the games. Due to the high demand for tickets, we suggest to purchase your tickets ahead of time. Access 4 Aside from rush hour traffic, Reynolds Coliseum is easily accessible from both I-40 and I-440. If coming to a game on a work night, it is wise to add a few minutes to work your way through Raleigh traffic and onto campus. Raleigh-Durham International Airport serves the Triangle and is about a 20-minute drive from NC State. Parking for women’s basketball games is free in the Coliseum Deck adjacent to the Arena, just off of Western Boulevard. It is about a couple minute walk to Reynolds Coliseum from the parking deck. There main entrance is on the north end of the building, which is also where the ticket window is. There is also handicapped seating above sections D, E, F, K, and L. Return on Investment 5 NC State women’s basketball tickets are extremely affordable, with many games available for $10 or less. This is a great value for a perennial top 10 team. Add in free parking and affordable concessions and you have a great value. However, most conference games sell out, so be sure to purchase your tickets on-line ahead of time. Extras 5 NC State does a great job honoring famous former coaches that battled cancer, Kay Yow and Jim Valvano. The basketball court is named Kay Yow Court, and the Arena bears Jim Valvano’s name. There are statues to both coaches outside the main entrance. There is also the aforementioned NC State Athletics Hall of Fame in the grand hall and on the main concourse. Reynolds has hosted numerous ACC tournaments, NCAA tournament regionals, as well as former presidents Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Final Thoughts With its recent renovation and reduced capacity Reynolds Coliseum is a perfect for a top-tier women’s basketball program. Wolfpack fans routinely fill Reynolds to capacity, to create a great home court advantage for Wolfpack Women’s Basketball.

Photos by Sean MacDonald , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Roger Dean Stadium 4751 Main St Jupiter, FL 33458 Miami Marlins Spring Training website Roger Dean Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 6,871 Drove My Chevy to Jupiter Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium has the distinction of hosting two minor league teams during the season. So it shouldn’t be too surprising to learn that it also welcomes two major league teams during spring training: the Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals. Of course, the two clubs have their own practice fields, batting cages, pitching mounds, and other training areas, but they both play their preseason games on the Roger Dean diamond. To avoid any accusations of favoritism, the stadium is divided in two, with the Marlins facilities on the left side, while the Cardinals occupy the right side. The stadium opened in 1998 and has aged gracefully through the years. Located in the Abacoa community of Jupiter, the stadium’s naming rights were a gift from the daughter of Roger Dean, who opened a car dealership in the area in 1960. The business is now located in Cape Coral, about 150 miles away on the west coast of Florida, but the name remains as a tribute to Dean rather than as a marketing initiative. The Montreal Expos once shared the stadium with St. Louis, before the Canadian club was sold to Jeffrey Loria and the Marlins moved in. The Expos ambled north to Viera, then became the Nationals, who now share their spring home with Houston at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, about 20 minutes away. In February 2022, the stadium was the site of negotiations during the MLB lockout, which ended in time for this reviewer to get to Florida for a few games. This review is for the Marlins, which is likely a more sedate experience than when the Cardinals are playing. Food & Beverage 4 There are plenty of concession stands serving typical ballpark fare at typical major league prices. The stands have baseball themed names such as Triple Play Eatery and Grand Slam Express. As the stadium hosts two teams, both local favourites are available at the stand across from the team store. Miami’s choices are a roast pork sandwich and Gator Bites, while Cardinal connoisseurs can enjoy toasted ravioli and St. Louis Style BBQ Pork Nachos. The Island Grill Cart has some seafood selections such as Mahi-Mahi Tacos and Crab Cake Sliders. Beer choices come in 16 and 25 ounce cups for your domestic (Bud, Bud Light, and Michelob Ultra), while Boulevard craft is served in 19.2-ounce cups. Chido is a local tequila maker and has sponsorship around the venue; you can enjoy a cocktail for less than most beers. Pepsi provides the soft drinks, which come in 20-ounce bottles. As we visited at the end of spring training, we are not including prices here as they are expected to rise for 2023. Atmosphere 4 Outside, the stadium fits into the neighborhood quite well, with its coral and gold stucco exterior blending nicely with the trees, bushes and flowers. You will not forget that you are in Florida as you approach. Inside, the stadium has a fairly common minor league layout. The field boxes run from outfield to outfield around home plate. A second tier of large seats, separated by the main walkway from the field boxes, runs from about third to first. Above them, the press box and luxury suites sit around home plate. A party tent and small bleachers section sits out in left field, and the Cassidy Cool Zone (an air-conditioned group area with an all-you-can-eat buffet) and a small picnic berm can be found in right. We attended a night game so the sun was not an issue, but if you are there for an afternoon affair, the only regular seating with any sort of protection is the last three rows of the loge boxes in front of the press box but not directly underneath the first base luxury boxes. Sitting anywhere else? Load up on sunscreen and pray it doesn’t rain. Neighborhood 4 Abacoa is a planned community that consists of different areas, each themed on different architecture, with plenty of shopping and dining available. A Florida Atlantic University campus also lies just south of the park. In addition to the ocean beach and the inlet area to the northeast of the park, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is of historical significance, and the Hibel Museum on the FAU campus is excellent for art aficionados. The Abacoa development has a lot of restaurant and bar options within a few blocks of the park. Those looking for a drink after the game will find JJ Muggs Stadium Grill right across the street, while Miller’s Ale House is closer to the highway. Fans 3 The Marlins do not draw as well as they should, given that their home park is less than two hours south. Of course, the Marlins don’t draw well there either, so maybe not so surprising. We attended a Mets game and the support for the visitors was very noticeable. As you would expect for a spring training game, everyone was in a good mood, happy that the baseball season would take place after all. Access 4 Jupiter is nestled on the southeast Florida coast, and the park is conveniently right off of both the (toll) Florida Turnpike and I-95. The nearest airport is Palm Beach International (PBI), which is just 20 minutes south. At the stadium, parking is a ridiculous $12 for the garages, but you can find free street parking within a five-minute walk. Spaces are clearly marked and there are no residential restrictions; we found a spot on aptly named Parkside Drive. A wide exterior concourse extends from left to right field, servicing all entrances and getting people to the concessions that line the walkway, as well as the stairways up to the seating bowl. Concessions can get crowded here, so try to grab something beforehand, or eat at one of the many restaurants nearby. The walkway that splits the two seating levels also has standing room areas, so traversing this can be a bit tricky at times. The doors open two hours before game time from three gates arrayed around the park. Security does take time if you arrive close to first pitch, so keep that in mind. After the game, if you are parked on the street, you will have no problem getting back on the highway and off to your next destination. Return on Investment 4 Tickets can be accessed on the secondary market for far less than face value, and given the rather relaxed policy towards lounge seating; this should be your best bet for getting in cheaply. If you take advantage of the free parking and eat at a local establishment instead of inside the stadium, you can enjoy mostly major league players for much less than it would cost to sit that close at an MLB ballpark. Except perhaps in Miami. Extras 2 There is a tribute to Expos season-ticket holders from the inaugural season in 1998 that brings a tear to my eye. The Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame has its inductees listed by class on banners around the concourse. Burt Reynolds is one member. Final Thoughts Overall, RDCS is a good spot to watch spring training baseball, helped by the fact that Miami is not as big a draw as the Cardinals. You can enjoy all of the benefits of being in Florida in March without the crowds that sometimes make spring training a chore rather than the beautiful baseball experience it should be.

Photos by Ethan Stone, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Lindsey Nelson Stadium 1511 Pat Head Summitt St Knoxville, TN 37996 Tennessee Volunteers website Lindsey Nelson Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 4,283 Vol Ball At Rocky Top Lindsey Nelson Stadium, smack dab in the middle of the University of Tennessee Knoxville campus, is on the smaller side of SEC baseball venues. The field, which opened in 1993 before a pair of renovations in 2010 and 2018, seats 4,283 fans, which is good enough for ninth among the 14 college baseball powerhouse SEC schools. Confusingly, the Vols play baseball at Lindsey Nelson Stadium on Robert M. Lindsay field – no correlation. It was recently renovated to a turf field from natural grass prior to the 2019 season. Current head coach Tony Vitello hopes to add more seating in the not too distant future. “I challenge Vol fans to look at Ole Miss’ old stadium,” Vitello said. “Mississippi’s stadium in Oxford— the shell is very similar to ours here and they’ve built that thing into a monster…I think there’s a rivalry between each team in our league, but people in this state are great and they’re great sports fans too. We need more seats in this stadium as well.” Food & Beverage 4 Prices at Lindsey Nelson Stadium for concessions are more than fair, with a decent variety for a college park. The standard nachos, hot dogs, pretzels and popcorn boxes are all under $5. Only a popcorn tub, refillable with one sticker and decently sized, exceeds the $5 mark, coming in at $6. Both card and cash are accepted throughout the concourse. Beverages are a different story. A water bottle is $6 and a refillable souvenir cup will set you back $7. There are multiple stands set up around the stadium, the main just behind the stands right upon entry to the park through the box office. There is a Petro’s stand on the first base side of the main concourse, as well as a few stands selling alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 5 Lindsey Nelson Stadium is a very well-kept venue. From an aesthetic standpoint, it is impressive to look at as well. While it may be obvious with its size, every seat in the house has a perfect view of the playing field. Despite being slightly hidden among other cathedrals on campus such as Neyland Stadium or Thompson-Boling Arena, Lindsey Nelson is an objectively great place to watch a college baseball game. Neighborhood 3 Tennessee, despite recent success on the diamond, is not and has never been a baseball school – that shows in Lindsey Nelson Stadium’s location on campus. Though a nice field, it seems to be in a forgotten corner of campus near the fraternities and train yard just beside the Tennessee river that slinks alongside nearby downtown Knoxville. All that to say, Lindsey Nelson is slightly hard to miss upon first visit to the university. It’s a half mile to any restaurant in the area, as well as a decent walk to Cumberland Avenue, which is the main social spot on Tennessee’s campus. The stadium is next to the football training field, less than a quarter mile south of Thompson-Boling Arena, as well as a half mile south of Neyland Stadium. Fans 5 Tennessee was the No. 1 ranked team in the nation at the time of Stadium Journey’s visit. Vols fans are passionate and rowdy, even during a midweek game at the midpoint in the college baseball season. An overwhelming number of fans turn the main concourse of Lindsey Nelson Stadium into a sea of Orange for a normal weekend series against a fellow SEC counterpart. Fans are often early for games, led by the student section which arrives near an hour early for most matchups, and are aptly named the, “Legends of Lindsey Nelson.” Access 2 Especially as of late, Lindsey Nelson Stadium has had a bit of a parking problem. There are limited parking spots directly bordering the stadium and rates can reach as much as $10-20 in the immediate area of the park. Traffic, be it because of campus residents or simply poor road layout, is often an obstacle on game days. Arriving early and having a plan when parking is highly recommended. For those who don’t mind a walk, G-10 parking garage down the street a little under 3/4ths of a mile from Lindsey Nelson Stadium is a nice option for those looking to avoid the hassle. Return on Investment 4 Lindsey Nelson Stadium might not be the largest baseball venue in the Southeastern conference, but overall enjoyment certainly does not take a hit. As mentioned above, the only real headache of the day rotates navigating your way to the stadium. Not to mention, tickets are often cheap for what has become excellent production on the diamond to watch in recent seasons. Extras 3 Tennessee painted a few baseball murals just outside the entrance to the stadium. There are plenty of nice places to take a picture during your visit to Lindsey Nelson Stadium. Buying gear and merchandise is a challenge – there are only a few stands selling Vols gear throughout the main concourse of the stadium. In total, one can walk around the entire field in less than five minutes. Final Thoughts Lindsey Nelson Stadium mirrors Knoxville in that it is easy to miss, but enjoyable and fulfilling nonetheless. It’s fanbase is passionate and it remains an excellent venue to watch America’s pastime. Pay mind to your gameday preparations – make sure there’s a plan in place to traverse the UT Knoxville campus and a game at Lindsey Nelson Stadium will be a rewarding one.

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 Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 CCSU Baseball Field 413 Ella Grasso Blvd New Britain, CT 06050 Central Connecticut State Blue Devils website CCSU Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 500 CCSU Baseball Field Baseball has been played at Central Connecticut State University since 1935. For the majority of its existence, the Blue Devils played at Balf-Savin Field on its New Britain campus. In 2010 construction was completed on a new facility located on the same site. In fact, this new ballpark, which consisted of a new artificial turf field, scoreboard, bullpens, batting cages, dugouts and press box, continued to be referred to as Balf-Savin Field for a few more years. In 2014 the facility was re-christened as CCSU Baseball Field. Founded in 1849 as the State Normal School, CCSU is Connecticut’s oldest public university. Total enrollment at CCSU is almost 12,000 students, over half of whom live off campus. 96 percent of the student body hails from Connecticut. The Blue Devils compete in the Northeast Conference, where they have won seven conference titles and qualified for seven NCAA Tournaments. Five CCSU alumni have reached the major leagues, most notably pitcher Ricky Bottalico. Food & Beverage 0 There are no concessions available at a Blue Devils baseball game. There is a lovely little pavilion in between the baseball and softball fields, but it is utilized to prepare meals for the teams and not as a snack bar for fans. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks into CCSU Baseball Field. Atmosphere 2 An afternoon at a Blue Devils baseball game is as old-school as it gets. There is nothing to distract your attention from the action going on down on the field. No music is played at all during the game. No walk-up songs, no between innings tunes. It’s a rarity today, for sure. The PA announcer does his job unobtrusively, adding to the laid-back presentation. A small scoreboard in left-centerfield displays only basic game information. If you enjoy being able to chat with your neighbors in the stands, hear the chatter of the fielders and coaches barking instructions to the players, then CCSU Baseball Field is the place for you. If the schedules line up, you’ll be able to move about the athletic complex and take in several games at once. Neighborhood 3 Central Connecticut State University is located in a residential neighborhood on the northeastern edge of New Britain, a suburban city of 73,000 people located 12 miles southwest of Hartford. CCSU Baseball Field is located on the eastern edge of campus, alongside the school’s other athletic facilities, including CCSU Softball Field, Arute Field and Detrick Gymnasium . While the area around campus is bustling, there are not many attractions in the immediate vicinity for visiting fans. Fans wanting a unique experience before or after a CCSU game should check out the East Side Restaurant, a German-themed pub complete with staff in traditional Bavarian gear and all the bratwurst you could possibly desire. For a twist on a traditional American dish, visit Ted’s Steamed Hamburgers in nearby Meriden. Their method of cooking hamburgers in steam trays is unique to central Connecticut, and Ted’s has been featured on several travel shows such as Man vs. Food and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It’s a favorite spot for this writer. Fans looking for a place to stay near campus should check out the Courtyard by Marriott and the Extended Stay America, both in neighboring Farmington. Beyond the local options, Connecticut’s capital city of Hartford contains a plethora of dining, lodging and entertainment options. Sports fans may want to pair a CCSU game with a Hartford Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park or a Hartford Wolf Pack game at the XL Center. Fans 2 While CCSU baseball crowds can best be described as “friends and family,” the Blue Devils draw pretty well for a college team in the northeast. Stadium Journey attended a Sunday afternoon game in late April with a crowd of about 350 present. This appears to be on the larger side for a CCSU baseball crowd. With the majority of the crowd enjoying a personal connection with the players down on the field, it’s not surprising that the fans here are really invested in the game and knowledgeable about the team. Still, this is a very laid-back, friendly crowd. With CCSU’s location near the geographic center of the Northeast Conference, it’s not unusual to see many visiting fans in attendance on a nice spring afternoon. Access 4 The CCSU campus is located on the New Britain/Newington town line, about a 15-minute drive from Hartford. Route 9 passes directly to the east of campus, connecting to Interstates 84 and 91 nearby. Driving is the primary method for arriving at this suburban campus. For fans utilizing public transportation, several CT Transit busses access CCSU , with the 140 bus stopping right at Arute Field. Seating at CCSU Baseball Field consists of metal bleachers without backs in the small grandstand behind home plate. Fans wishing to stand for a bit will find areas where they can spread out and take in the action. Some fans opt to bring their own lawn chairs and set up shop further down the foul lines. There is plenty of room for alternate seating. Netting and fencing obstruct views from all points in the ballpark. Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the field. Should this lot fill, and it may on a spring afternoon where there are several events taking place, additional parking is available in the large lot on the far side of Arute Field. Restrooms are located in the Pavilion located on the right field side of the ballpark. They are clean and plenty large enough for a typical Blue Devils crowd. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission or for parking at CCSU Baseball Field. With no on-site concessions, you will not spend a single cent at a Blue Devils baseball game. Free programs are available for all fans. Extras 2 The grandstand here is christened as the “Ricky Bottalico Grandstands” in recognition of a $100,000 contribution the CCSU alumnus donated to the school’s scholarship fund. Banners honoring Blue Devils conference championships hang on the back façade of the grandstand. NCAA Tournament appearances are listed on the outfield wall. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for an over the top game day experience, a CCSU Blue Devils baseball game isn’t the place for you. At CCSU Baseball Field, you’ll get a ball game presented without distraction, where you can hear the chatter on the field and conversations with your fellow fans. It’s a simple, enjoyable place to watch some quality baseball on a spring New England afternoon. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Jackie Robinson Ballpark 105 E Orange Ave Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Bethune-Cookman Wildcats website Jackie Robinson Ballpark website Year Opened: 1914 Capacity: 4,200 Daytona's Home for College Baseball Traveling to college baseball stadiums in Florida, one would easily be forgiven for overlooking Bethune-Cookman; their baseball team plays at the home of the Daytona Tortugas , and not at an on-campus stadium. Located in the beach city of Daytona Beach also gives them plenty to compete with for attention. However, sitting in the stands with the team’s loyal fans, surrounded by history, has a certain quality to it. One should not be forgiven for skipping this ballpark altogether. Food & Beverage 3 There aren’t a lot of food stands at the home of Bethune-Cookman, as the stadium is very old school in its construction. That said, the variety you find here is solid enough with plenty of affordability; you can find the usual ballpark fare in the form of peanuts ($3.50), Cracker Jack ($3), popcorn ($4), hot dogs ($3), and more. A fan favorite is the grande chicken nachos ($10), which lives up to its name, as well as the buffalo chicken tenders ($6) and funnel cake fries ($5). Drink options range from coffee to soda to tea and energy drinks, as well as Gatorade and bottled water, with prices ranging from $2 to $5. Atmosphere 3 There is something to be said about a stadium with a classic look – that old time construction with the covered seating behind home plate and the blockhouse dugouts is very much prevalent in Daytona Beach. However, while many find the old aesthetic charming, it has its drawbacks. The old-style construction means that anyone sitting above the fifth row has an obstructed view thanks to the support beams for the roof. And, while all the seats under the overhang have individual chairs, the seating along left field for general admission is metal benches with no backs. However, the Budweiser Bullpen and right field patio offer seating options for fans and groups with a field-level view and various seating options. The stadium’s single-A tenants have done a good job with the field itself and the stadium aesthetic, maintaining the color scheme of the team throughout the facility rather well, but it means the contrasting red of Bethune-Cookman stands out against the green and blue of the Tortugas. Additionally, the stadium’s location on the water is a big plus as the view is pretty good from your seat – swaying palm trees and blue waters of the intercostal waterway make the backdrop one of the best in college baseball. Neighborhood 4 Immediately across the street from the stadium is a small downtown area full of local shops, while immediately across the water from the stadium is Daytona Beach proper, featuring the world-famous beach, pier, and the expected shopping and dining options. In addition, closer down the road towards I-4 along International Speedway Blvd are countless restaurants and shops, as well as Daytona International Speedway . The city has also done a good job trying to revitalize itself to make Daytona Beach more visitor friendly, meaning there is plenty to do. For lodging, you can’t go wrong with the Extended Stay America or WoodSpring Suites Daytona. Fans 3 As with nearly every Florida college sports team, the attendance on game day is sparse most of the time on weekdays. Games are rarely sold out, but rivalry games with Florida A&M , Stetson , UCF , and others draw many visiting fans to even out the fanbase. With that in mind, the overall experience is still solid; the Wildcats are very family-friendly and the fans are a big part of that. Additionally, the fans who visit are a wide variety of baseball diehards, locals, and alumni traveling through the area hoping to see some of tomorrow’s stars. Access 4 To get to the stadium, it is as easy as taking the I-95 exit onto International Speedway Blvd, and then heading east. Signage showing directions to the stadium are well placed, so it is easy to find your way to the field. Right off the main road is the ballpark, rising from the water’s edge on the corner of Orange Ave and Beach St, and parking is plentiful on site and only $2. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices are $10 no matter where you sit. This means you won’t break the bank for tickets for a family of four, even when you add in concessions prices. Parking is also completely free at the stadium’s parking lot behind the outfield wall. With these all factored in, it is easy to say that Bethune-Cookman may be one of the best values in college baseball in Florida. Extras 3 A statue of Jackie Robinson is a popular photo spot at the stadium for fans. Additionally, there is a big wall that features names of all the players from Daytona MiLB teams that have made it to the big leagues over the years. Finally, all throughout the property are signs and infographics about the history of the stadium and its ties to Jackie Robinson’s story. Final Thoughts The idea of a baseball team playing in a beach city in Florida seems about as idyllic as one can imagine, and the stadium surely lives up to the image. With great views from the seats, fans in Daytona are treated to a great experience on game day. The affordability of Wildcats games is on par with the best the state has to offer, and it is easy to see why families and young baseball enthusiasts flock to Jackie Robinson Ballpark to watch a game, despite the heat of Florida.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Peterborough Memorial Centre 151 Lansdowne St E Peterborough, ON K9J 7P7 Peterborough Petes website Peterborough Memorial Centre website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: 4,329 Good Years Ahead for this Historic Barn Over the past two decades, the Ontario Hockey League has undertaken a massive shift from community-scale to the big time. What was once a league of neighbourhood arenas has matured into a circuit of showpiece ‘NHL in miniature’ venues. Across the province, teams have abandoned their well-worn old homes for plush new ones and only a couple have bucked the trend. It’s at these clubs where hockey and community history continue to unfold, inextricably linked to each other through the long Canadian winters. In Peterborough, this is perhaps more true than anywhere in the league, for the home of the Petes has witnessed more of both than almost anywhere else. The small city of Peterborough sits at the southern entrance to Ontario’s vast ‘Cottage Country’ where farmland gives way to countless lakes and forests. Since 1956, it has been home to the maroon-and-white Petes, and the hockey club has been deeply tied to the city’s sense of identity ever since. The Petes’ alumni roll is a laundry list of great players and managers over the decades, including seven Hall of Famers. They’re the oldest continuously-operating team in the OHL and have won the league nine times and the national Memorial Cup championship once. Frustrating to their fans is that the only team with greater success are their hated rivals, the Oshawa Generals. The Petes are run as a non-profit community organisation, like the Kitchener Rangers. And like Kitchener, the Petes have an historic arena dedicated to soldiers killed in the World Wars that they’ve expanded and upgraded, rather than replaced. With about 4500 seats and new hospitality areas, the many quirks of the arena are well-known throughout the league and a refreshing antidote to the formulaic nature of modern rinks. Until recently, there had been plans to construct a new arena in the city, but those have now been placed on the backburner and the PMC should host hockey for another decade at least. That should come as happy news to hockey fans, as this old barn more than makes up for its shortcomings with character and history on display at every turn. It’s all too likely that Peterborough will eventually have a sparkling new arena for their beloved club, and that’s probably the right choice economically. But the decision to remain at the Memorial Centre, with continued gradual upgrades, is the right one for the soul of the city. Food & Beverage 2 Concessions are one area where the age of the facility shows itself unfavourably to its modern peers. The PMC dates to a time when hockey fans didn’t expect gourmet options, and the options remain simple in the concourses, with pizza, sausages, nachos, ice cream, and snacks. Pizza slices are $5.50 but for a dollar more, the smoked sausage is a tasty option. Beer and Strongbow cider begin at $9, as do Caesars and other cocktails. There are a handful of small bars located throughout the arena, and lineups are never very bad. For interesting drink options, visit The Corner Bar, off the entry concourse, for local craft beer cans. Along the southwest corner and south end, the Gibson’s Club Lounge features a comfortable, carpeted atmosphere with a whisky bar pouring Gibson’s Finest rye. For a proper meal, choose seats in the south end. This section is the PMC Pub & Grill, where a full menu of pub fare is available at tables or at your seat, at ice level. Note that you must reserve a table in advance or purchase seats in this section to access the restaurant. Atmosphere 4 When objectively compared to modern OHL arenas, the unique, perhaps bizarre, design of the Memorial Centre falls short in many respects – though the gap has been narrowed with recent renovations. Subjectively, however, this classic barn is paradise for the hockey fan. The building has a long, irregular profile from the street, with the front entrance capped by four flags (Canada, the Union Jack, Ontario, and Peterborough). Inside the front doors, through which almost most fans will enter, the glorious history of the Petes begins to throw itself at you. Banners of the four legendary Petes coaches are first; Scotty Bowman, Colin Campbell, Bob Gainey, and local hero Roger Neilson. Along one wall, the ‘Memorial’ aspect of the arena is reflected in a large military display of regimental plaques, tartans, and other regalia from the World Wars and beyond. To the right is the extensive team shop and to the left, the even more extensive Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame, open free to fans during the game. An extensive display fronting the concourse shows off the silverware of the wildly successful Lakers Lacrosse Club, who also call the PMC home. The concourses, as such, don’t extend fully around the rink, but are utterly crammed with history, including plaques for inductees to the Hall of Fame and the many team photos of the maroon-and-white. On either side of the atrium, narrow stairways provide access up to a second level atop the seating bowl, and under each are bar counters. The first floor concourses end abruptly on either side at the changing rooms for each team. Pass-throughs to ice level grant access upward to some seats, whilst others are more easily accessed top-down via the stairways. The second level is suites on one side, with the Gibson’s Club along the other, which is accessible to all fans. The pub area is accessible through a separate entrance at the south end, with suites above. It’s within the seating bowl where the PMC’s quirkiness really unveils itself. Firstly, it becomes clear the usual arena seating arrangement doesn’t apply here. The sides are quite short, only twelve rows, but the north end rises in a terrace more reminiscent of Anfield than a hockey arena. And on the south end, another classic feature; the Queen’s portrait gazes over the rink in a tradition that is sadly disappearing as old venues close. What used to be a Canadian staple is rarely found at new rinks – the only modern OHL arena to preserve this bit of Canadiana is Mississauga’s Paramount Centre. For a modern touch, a new HD video scoreboard hangs above centre ice and is used very professionally. Matchday production is classy, focused on the hockey throughout, and with a low key, friendly feel. Above the short sides, vertical walls rise to support the roof and display the dozens of banners for the Petes as well as the lacrosse championships of the Lakers. These vertical walls also serve to amplify the ice-level sounds so that every hit and bounce echoes through the arena. Speaking of bounces, the ice itself is perhaps the most famous quirk of this old barn. Most rinks today feature standardised ice surfaces, indistinguishable from any other arena in the league, with standard dimensions and identically-curved corners. Here, the corners (in)famously lack the usual curve, with a remarkably rectangular surface providing a true home-ice advantage. The Petes use their knowledge of the angles here to great advantage over their opponents. Fans will immediately notice the sharpness of the corners that have miraculously survived to this day, and can expect occasional miscues from the visitors as a result. In an era of increasing standardisation and rationalisation, the peculiar nature and abundant history are endearing features to cherish. Neighbourhood 3 The Memorial Centre is located in a mostly residential area not far south of Peterborough’s downtown core. There are a couple food and drink options nearby, though the city’s charming central business district is a five minute drive up George Street (which is known as Roger Neilson Way in front of the arena). On a nice day, it’s a 25-minute walk along the scenic riverfront, or a ten-minute bus ride. Downtown, there are lots of good spots for a pre- or post-game meal or drink. The Black Horse pub is a welcoming spot for a winter night and a walk up George Street or the neighbouring blocks will yield plenty of choices. One particularly good winter option is The Whistle Stop Café, famous for its enormous selection of poutine. East across the Otonabee River is trendy Ashburnham, home to the Ashburnham Ale House, and a short walk to the iconic Peterborough Lift Lock. This national historic site, where boats climb a steep hill, is featured on the Petes’ shoulder patches. Nearer to the PMC is the Canadian Canoe Museum, providing a stunning look an icon as dear to Canadian hearts as hockey. The museum is in the process of relocating to a bespoke new home along the river, but even in its temporary digs, it will be a pleasantly surprise even to those with no prior interest in canoes or local history. In warm weather, you can try out a canoe yourself along Peterborough’s extensive riverfront parkland, a couple blocks east of the arena. Along here, there are galleries and museums, historic locks and mills, and the Holiday Inn within walking distance of centre ice. And finally, even closer to the arena, the Peterborough Farmers’ Market is right next door, open every Saturday morning. Fans 4 The PMC is a smaller arena in a smaller city than most other OHL venues, but the Petes have been deeply woven into the Peterborough fabric for decades, and remain so even as the city has started to rapidly grow. Fans have come back in strong numbers as pandemic restrictions end, coinciding with a young and promising roster on the ice. Peterborough’s fans are known to be welcoming and friendly to visitors, with the notable exception of their detested rivals an hour down the road in Oshawa. The rivalry with Oshawa is one of hockey’s great old derbies. During our latest review of the PMC, fans cheered loudly when it was announced the Generals were currently losing their respective match out-of-town. For bucket list travelers, seeing the Petes host the Oshawa Generals should be near the top. Access 3 Getting to the PMC is easy from anywhere in this small city, as the rink is located along Lansdowne Street, a major artery. Ample parking is located to the west of the arena, and will cost $5 for the evening. There is also a bus loop in front of the arena, and service is frequent. Coming from out of town, Peterborough is about ninety minutes Northeast of Toronto in good traffic, and there are frequent express buses linking downtown to downtown. Within the arena, the discombobulated concourses are not intuitive, but the circulation is good once you get the hang of it. There are ample washrooms and lineups are not an issue. Friendly staff will proactively reach out to help fans navigate, and the relatively small capacity mitigates any potential crowding issues. In short, circulation in the arena doesn’t make much sense, but it works. Return on Investment 5 As a non-profit organisation, the Petes make every effort to keep ticket prices to a minimum and seats here are among the most affordable in the league. Indeed, tickets can be had for as little as $13. Chuck in $5 for parking and affordable, albeit limited, concessions, a night out in Peterborough can be tremendous value. If you come early and enjoy the Sports Hall of Fame and many historical markers throughout the arena, the value increases even before seeing the resurgent Petes take the ice. Extras 5 This is where the intangible qualities of such a unique, historic old barn come into play. Whilst it would be impossible to award full points for the atmosphere, there are few arenas more atmospheric than this one. Further, the community ownership and non-profit nature of the hockey club lend a truly welcoming feel to a Petes game, and the chance for Peterborough locals to be directly involved in their beloved team. Final Thoughts Peterborough is a charming little city and the Petes provide an equally charming, low key experience. The maroon-and-white have been the soul of this community for decades with the Memorial Centre as the heart. The arena is almost certainly in the twilight of its OHL life, but it’s great to know the Petes will call the PMC home for another decade at least. An evening at this old barn is sure to leave smiles on many faces as long as they do.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Illinois Field 1605 S Wright St Champaign, IL 61820 Illinois Fighting Illini website Illinois Field website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 3,000 Illinois Field, Home of the Fighting Illini Illinois Field was constructed at its current location in 1988. Prior to this, the home of Illinois baseball was located farther north on campus at the intersection of Wright Street and University Avenue, which is now part of the engineering campus. That site, also known as Illinois Field, had been in use since 1884. This current Illinois Field was originally known as Proano Stadium. In 1994, Illinois Field also hosted the Champaign-Urbana Bandits, a minor league team in the short-lived Great Central League. There has also been discussions in the past with the Frontier League about hosting a team. The lack of a beer sales stopped that and frankly it is not likely to happen any more, even though beer is now sold. Illinois Field has served as the location for two Big Ten Baseball Tournaments, in 1998 and 2005. Food & Beverage 3 Illinois Field has very typical stadium food. Among the stadium's offerings are hot dogs, brats, nachos, popcorn, and pretzels. The stadium now offers beer for sale. There may be temporary vendors at various games that sell other specialty items. Atmosphere 4 Illinois Field is in a very good setting, but it suffers from a very poor grandstand that does not seat very many people. The grandstand is pretty much located behind the plate and gets smaller towards the bases. The other, and in my opinion best option is to sit along the lawn and grass along both sides. Both day and night games have a certain electricity to them, but the place really shines at night. There is a festival atmosphere to the games and it is also comparable to a great minor league experience. Obviously night and weekend games will be more like this than a later afternoon weekday game. Illinois Field has a FieldTurf playing surface which covers the entire playing field with the exception of the pitching mound. The field's dimensions are 330 feet down the lines, and 400 feet to center field. For apparel and other merchandise sales, a trailer is often operated by a local sports apparel store during games. There is a decent scoreboard at Illinois Field. Neighborhood 5 The neighborhood closest to Illinois Field is mostly made up of research facilities, dorms, and academic buildings, not to mention high-quality athletic facilities. Culver’s at 2302 S Neil Street and Espresso Royale (1411 S Neil Street) are a couple of close quick service establishments nearby. A very short walk away is the area along Green and Wright Streets called “Campustown.” There are many bars, shops, and restaurants in this area, and they tend to cater to young college students. Older fans will want to center their post-game activities around downtown Champaign. Once a pretty boring downtown area, one will now find many bars and restaurants. The Esquire Lounge is a local icon and should be a stop for every one. Try a pork chop sandwich and you will fit in nicely. Other great downtown spots are Blind Pig Brewery, Jupiter’s, and Farren’s Pub & Eatery. There is a much larger version of Jupiter’s on the outskirts of Champaign (2511 Village Green Place at The Crossing Center) that is also a good choice. If visiting that second Jupiter’s location also try Billy Barooz right next door (2521 Village Green Place at The Crossing Center). Urbana is a bit slower pace kind of town. But there are three places that jump out as must-visits. 25 O'Clock Brewing Company is a great little brewpub, Crane Alley is a nice bar with some great beers and Masijta Grill is a great Korean barbecue. I would also throw in the eclectic music at the former country nightspot, The Rose Bowl. Fans 3 Baseball at Illinois is not much different in terms of fan support than a northeast college team. There are more fans, but not that much more. It is not one of the biggest draws in town, but it seems to be getting bigger. Access 5 Champaign and Urbana are both easy cities to navigate. Illinois Field is not located close to a major highway but most roads leading to the area will be four-lane ones. There are many parking lots available, but it would be a good idea to look at the official university parking site so that you head the right way. Champaign-Urbana is at the crossroads of I-57 and I-74, as well as being the eastern terminus for I-72 so getting to the area from Chicago, Indianapolis and points west will be pretty easy. Return on Investment 4 Admission is currently free. When you combine that with reasonable concessions and free parking it is about perfect for the experience you will find inside. While it's not the best stadium to catch a game, it does have a unique feel which is deserving of a visit for a NCAA baseball fan. Extras 3 There are free programs as well as links to an online program. There are also usually free posters, schedules and other goodies at a table inside the entrance. The scoreboard and entertainment is good for this level of sports. Final Thought Illinois Field is a stadium that is a great spot for a baseball game. If the actual grandstand and seating area could be improved, this would become more of a must watch kind of venue.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Grand Park Events Center 19000 Grand Park Blvd Westfield, IN 46074 Indy Eleven website Grand Park Events Center website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 2,000 Indy XI Women Take the Game Indoors Indy Eleven of the USL Championship purchased a club in the USL W League to kick off its inaugural season of 2022. The 44-team league was created to provide opportunities for girls and women to play, coach, and work in soccer. The Eleven play in the Great Lakes Division and call the Grand Parks Events Center home for its matches. The building is the centerpiece of the Grand Park Sports Complex, which features 26 baseball and softball diamonds and 31 multipurpose fields for soccer, football, and lacrosse spread out over 400-acres 20 miles north of downtown Indianapolis. The Events Center features 3-full-size synthetic fields, 4-locker rooms, office space, a restaurant, and a sports pub. It is the second attempt of the USL to establish a women’s league. The original W-League operated from 1995-to 2015. None of the teams from the original loop have returned, with many operated by USL Championship clubs. Food & Beverage 4 There is plenty of food to choose from at the venue that includes a full-service restaurant and pub with food and drink, along with a concession stand with snack items for the younger fans. The pub has a full-service menu that includes starters (nachos, fried pickles, chicken wings, loaded tots, and cheese curds), entrees (burgers, tenderloin, chicken sandwiches, buffalo chicken wrap), pizza, and salads. The prices range as low as $9 for a starter, $12-14 for a sandwich, and 22-25 for a 16-inch pizza. There is an impressive selection of beer that costs $8 a pint and includes varieties from Three Floyd’s, Sun King, Upland, along with Yuengling Lager, Blue Moon, and Stella Artois. Canned beer is available for $6-$8 from Budweiser, Coors, Guinness, Rhinegiest, Modelo, and Sun King. Coors Seltzer, White Claw, and Hard Cider are also available for purchase at the game. The concession stand is downstairs and features nachos, hot dogs, pretzels, candy, pop, hot chocolate, and coffee. The price of a hot dog is $4, a 32-ounce Pepsi product is also $4, and combos can be made with a hot dog, bag of chips, and soda for $8. A few reminders when ordering from the pub, the crowds get long during half-time, and it might be better to place a food order before or after this time. It is fun to have a drink with a few fans during this time, but not when you are hungry. Also, the building only accepts credit cards at this time. It may change in the future, but you have been warned. Atmosphere 4 The game-day atmosphere is electric during a soccer match. Fans pack in both sides of the grandstand and watch from above the action on the pitch. The same can be said for fans in the pub who have a great window view of the game from their seats. The Brickyard Battalion occupies one end of the venue and generates a similar frenzy pace as they do at Carroll Stadium downtown for men’s games. Fans have to walk upstairs to purchase a ticket and have an open view of the pitch from both sides, along with a possible youth game taking place on one of the two adjacent fields. A merchandise booth is installed with caps, scarves, and t-shirts, and a match poster is available for free to take home to hang on your wall. The club’s official mascot, Victorio, can also be found greeting fans young and old. Neighborhood 3 Grand Park is 20 miles northwest of downtown Indianapolis in the suburb of Westfield, a sprawling community in recent years. Grand Park is near a collection of chain restaurants, hotels, and local restaurants and establishments. If you are with the family, a few national and regional chains: McDonald’s, Dairy Queen, Culver’s, Portillo’s Hot Dogs, Chick-fil-A, and Chipotle. There are also local restaurants: Grindstone on the Monon, I Heart Mac & Cheese, Union Jack Pub (fantastic deep-dish pizza), Los Agaves, Ben’s BBQ, and Wolfies Grill. Another fun spot for the family is Urban Vines. The winery/brewery serves up wine slushies, bottled wine, beer, and pizza, along with a giant grass area with benches, fire pits, and a kids’ play area – it’s family-friendly. If you are without the kids, 1205 Distillery North often has live music along with a couple of other breweries – Field and Grand Junction. Fans 4 The inaugural match was sold-out for the first game of the club. A frenzied crowd took to the indoors at the Event Center and welcomed the ladies to the Indianapolis area. The Brickyard Battalion was seated at the far end of the grandstand and made their presence known with drums, chants, flag-waving, and feet stomping on the aluminum bleachers. The rest of the stands were filled with fans cheering on the side throughout the match. Access 3 There is plenty of signage to the complex but not any reference to the Indy XI club. The team also had to remind people that the venue was indoor at the Event Center (it could probably use a better name or a corporate sponsorship for easier identification), but there is a vast parking lot that is free of charge and directions inside to lead fans upstairs to the seating bowl. I would say that someone could access the game free of charge since there seemed to be a few entrances that were not checking tickets Return on Investment 4 A ticket is $8, the same for a pint of beer at the pub, merchandise is $25-$30 for a shirt or cap, and the parking is free. One could grab something to eat in the pub, watch the game from there, and perhaps make your way to the stands for the second half. The area is perfect for families with hotels and retail chains nearby to satisfy their cravings. Extras 3 A point for the pub that is packed during half-time with fans exchanging stories over a pint of beer and mingling with players from the men’s side. A second point is for the BYB, who show their support for the ladies and bring a welcome presence to the match. A third point is for the set up of the game-day experience by the staff. It is run on a professional level with members available for questions when applicable. Final Thoughts It is not my first time watching a sporting event for Stadium Journey at the Events Center, the Indy AlleyCats of the AUDL also call it home, but I was impressed with what I witnessed. I don’t think every game will be a sell-out, but even half the audience would be a welcome presence. It is also an ideal spot for the folks in the northern suburbs of Indianapolis to have a sports option for the family. I would prefer the game outdoors at a soccer-specific venue, and perhaps that day will come, but they are off to a great start.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Tankersley Field 100 Stadium Dr Prairie View, TX 77445 Prairie View A&M Panthers website Tankersley Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 512 Prairie View A&M University - Tankersley Field Prairie View A&M University is one of the oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the state of Texas. The Panthers have a long history of excellence in all athletic fields. They began playing games on the baseball diamond in 1970, led by their legendary Head Coach John W. Tankersley. He would lead the team from 1970 to 2002, before passing away in 2003. The Panthers would find success in the coming years, winning the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Championship in 2006, 2007, and 2012, and subsequently appearing in the NCAA Tournament in those years. After renovations beginning in 2013, Prairie View A&M would rechristen their ballpark after their late, legendary coach: John W. Tankersley Field. It would open in time for the 2014 season. One of the smaller Division I stadiums in the country, Tankersley Field is not without its charms and its fans. Read on to learn more about the pride of the Panthers baseball team. Food & Beverage 3 In any other circumstance, this rating would be much lower because there is only one concession stand at Tankersley Field. However, the sheer diversity of the menu offered at the stand brings this rating up to what it currently is. The stand has the standard fare, to be sure, such as hot dogs ($5, or chili cheese dogs for $7), popcorn, ($3), and nachos ($6). Also on the menu are sausage buns ($6), boudin ($6), and wing baskets (fries plus a dozen wings, with your choice of sauces, for $12). They also sell bottled soda, water, and sports drinks ($5 and $6), as well as bottled and canned beer. Even with only one stand, the lines never get too long (and the most recent game I attended was a rivalry game with a decent-sized crowd). This is always crucial if you don’t want to miss any action on the field. It’s also worth noting that fans can bring in their food and beverages (within reason when it comes to alcohol) to games if they choose not to partake from the concession stand. Atmosphere 2 Overall there is a nice aesthetic to Tankersley Field. The facades on the dugouts are a pleasing old-school brick design. They also have – very much needed – shaded seating in the bleachers behind home plate, to keep out as much of the southeast Texas sun as possible. On the home team dugout, there are markers highlighting the team’s past accomplishments. Aside from this, that is pretty much all there is in terms of highlights. It is small, but that does work in favor of adding to the energy that we’ll discuss shortly in the “Fans” section. Neighborhood 2 For the most part, the bulk of the city life in Prairie View is centered around Prairie View A&M’s campus. Tankersley Field sits right on campus and rests in the shadow of nearby Panther Stadium, home to the football team. The William Nicks Building (the “Baby Dome”) , home of the Panthers basketball team, is also nearby. In terms of dining options, you are mostly going to be limited to fast food options in town, which cater to the college crowd. The nearby city of Waller, Texas (which is just a 10-minute drive from PVAMU’s campus) has far more options, both in terms of dining and lodging. Some highlights include the Waller County Line Pit BBQ , known for its pit-smoked ribs and chicken, and the Hedgehog Grill , a traditional American-style grill that serves up chicken fried steak, burgers, and homemade desserts. When it comes to attractions, this will probably be the first time I’ve gotten the chance to write about the experience that is Buc-ee’s . For Texans, especially those that travel the endless miles up and down Interstates 10 and 35, Buc-ee’s is an oasis, a safe haven, and quite frankly a best friend. Waller has a location, and it is tough to put into words what this hybrid megastore/gas station/rest stop is like until you’ve experienced one in person. A Buc-ee’s has to be seen to be understood. For lodgings, you are going to have to venture outside of Prairie View to find somewhere to stay. Some nearby options include Best Western Plus Waller Hotel and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waller – Prairie View . If you’re looking for more to do or other food and lodging options, the Houston metroplex is just about a 30–45 minute drive from Prairie View. Fans 2 As previously mentioned, Tankersley Field is what would generously be described as “small”. With a capacity of 514, you will never have a super large crowd at Panthers games, especially as the weather starts to warm up during the summer months. The game I most recently attended was a weekend game against a traditional rival, and it appeared there were equal amounts of visiting fans as there were home fans filling the stands. While this made for a lively crowd, it was a bit unexpected. Access 2 Quite frankly, unless you live in the Houston area it’s not easy to get to either Prairie View A&M or Tankersley Field. It’s a 45-minute drive from downtown Houston and a three-hour drive from San Antonio. Also, there isn’t anything in the way of public transportation in the area, unless you’re a student and can hop on one of the shuttles on campus. Luckily, once you’ve made your way to campus, parking is plentiful and – best of all – is free for all Panther games. Return on Investment 3 In addition to the free parking at Panthers games, they have free admission as well. For any Division I sport, anytime you can count “free” among the costs is a great day for the sports fan. While the bulk of the Panthers non-conference schedule is played on the road – including their marquee non-conference games – it is still DI baseball that you get to see for free at Tankersley Field. This includes at least one homestand against some of the most legendary HBCU programs of all time. Couple that with some affordable and out-of-the-box concessions, and this all adds up to a pretty good time at the ballpark. . Extras 1 In terms of Extras, you really will be hard-pressed to find anything to write home about at Tankersley Field. The main draws are what is put out there on the field. There are no bells and whistles, no frills, and nary any pomp and circumstance to be found. If you’re a baseball fan though, what Prairie View A&M offers will be enough for you. Final Thoughts All in all, it is a fun experience at Tankersley Field taking in the Prairie View A&M Panthers. The field, as they say, is what it is. The stands are nice, and the field is nice, but there just isn’t much to it beyond that. If you’re looking for a bucket list experience, this probably isn’t that for you. However, if you’re not a diehard fan of an alum and are just looking for a way to catch a ballgame for a bargain-basement price, then this is what you’re looking for. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 John Hunt Park Sand Volleyball Complex 2295 Airport Road Huntsville, AL 35801 John Hunt Park Sand Volleyball Complex website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 500 North Alabama Beach In 2019 Huntsville Alabama opened a state of the art beach volleyball complex called the John Hunt Park Sand Volleyball Complex. The 17-acre complex has 15 Sand Volleyball Courts, LED lighted courts, a cooling room to keep players from overheating, and full locker rooms with restrooms, showers and dressing rooms. The Coastal Collegiate Sports Association (CCSA) is an NCAA Division I college athletic conference that started as the Coastal Collegiate Swimming Association by the ASUN Conference, Big South Conference, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, and the Southern Conference to create a centralized home for their members with swimming and diving programs. In October 2015, the CCSA added the newly recognized NCAA sport of beach volleyball and rebranded itself the Coastal Collegiate Sports Association. CCSA beach volleyball went through major changes in 2021. The CCSA entered into a beach volleyball partnership with Conference USA (C-USA) under which the 2021 CCSA championship in that sport was split into two groups, with the six full C-USA and Sun Belt Conference members playing in one group. Following the 2021 championship, those six schools—C-USA members Florida Atlantic, FIU, Southern Miss, and UAB, plus Sun Belt members Georgia State and Louisiana–Monroe (ULM)—formed a new C-USA beach volleyball league, with another Sun Belt member, Coastal Carolina, joining them. At the same time, Charleston and UNC Wilmington (UNCW) left CCSA beach volleyball for the ASUN. The CCSA now has 17 member schools. Food & Beverage 3 There is a simple food stand and a few various food trucks over the life of the tournament. The options are limited for a large meal, but it will do for quick bites. Atmosphere 4 There is a wonderful festive atmosphere to the joint volleyball championships here at John Hunt Park. There are no regular seats unless you pay for the VIP package, but you may not mind. Sit along the beach courts, take your shoes off, and enjoy the great action. Neighborhood 4 Huntsville is now the largest city in Alabama (Birmingham has a larger metro area) with a population of 194,585 people. The area is home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command nearby at the Redstone Arsenal, and the state-owned US Space & Rocket Center. The replica Saturn V at the center can be seen quite aways away, especially on the nearby UAH campus. Nearby University Drive going west towards Madison has a plethora of food options, from both chains to small operations. Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante, Shaggy’s Burgers and Tacos, ChopChop and TopGolf are some of the best options in that area. One should also look at the numerous brewpub options around the area. Downtown Huntsville is also becoming a nice quaint place for a stroll. There will be a few food and drink options down there as well. The Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment complex is an old factory and mill that houses numerous small artist studios as well as food and drink from options like Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea Company and Alchemy Lounge. Fans 4 The fans are extremely knowledgeable and well engaged with the action. Many are family or friends, but they are good, loud and supportive fans. With this many schools participating you will see many fans wearing school colors. Access 5 Huntsville is served by several U.S. Highways, including 72, 231, 431 and an Interstate highway spur, I-565, that links the two cities of Huntsville and Decatur to I-65. The John Hunt Park is off of Airport Road and near Memorial Parkway. Return on Investment 4 The games are free to attend unless you are paying for the VIP tent area. Extras 3 The John Hunt Park is a a 428-acre site offering many sports options. There are fields for various sports, bike trails, tennis courts and many other options for entertainment. The north part of the park holds the remains of the Joe W. Davis Stadium, former home of the Southern League’s Huntsville Stars. The John Hunt Park was the location of an earlier airport for the city. That is why the road near the park is called Airport Road although the regular airport is located quite away from this location. It used to be that you could see some items from the old airfield, but that is getting harder and harder as time goes along. The U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum, also located within the park area, is about the only remnant of the old air facility. Final Thoughts Northern Alabama may not be an area you consider a beach volleyball hotspot, but the John Hunt Park Sand Volleyball Complex is a great facility for an upcoming college sport.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Charger Park Baseball Field 851 John Wright Dr NW Huntsville, AL 35805 Alabama-Huntsville Chargers website Charger Park Softball Field website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 500 Charging Softball The University of Alabama in Huntsville, or UAH to locals, is a state university that is part of the University of Alabama System. The school began in 1950 as an extension of the University of Alabama, but drastically changed in 1960 when Wernher von Braun, a German rocket scientist brought to the United States under Operation Paperclip, after working for the Nazi regime, helped create a research institute to provide advanced engineering and science curricula to NASA scientists and engineers. This set forth a more scientific path for this institution. UAH offers 89 degree-granting programs, but Engineering is the largest college program at the university. UAH is known for engineering and science programs, including astrophysics, atmospheric science and aerospace engineering. It is a Space Grant university, and has a history of cooperation with NASA at the Marshall Space Flight Center, and the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal. UAH is a member of the NCAA Division II. In most sports they are a member of the Gulf South Conference. Unlike many southern schools, there is no football team at UAH. UAH began softball play in 1996. Charger Park Softball Field was integrated into Charger Park, built in 2010, which is also the home of the soccer, lacrosse, and baseball teams. Food & Beverage 2 For many games there may be no food stands in operation. If the small stand is in operation expect a very simple menu with very good prices for hot dogs and similar items. Atmosphere 3 The field is a simple softball field with a few grandstands located around home plate. The stadium is a pretty normal setup for a college team of this level and is pretty much a mirror version of the nearby baseball stadium. Neighborhood 4 Huntsville is now the largest city in Alabama (Birmingham has a larger metro area) with a population of 194,585 people. The area is home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command nearby at the Redstone Arsenal, and the state-owned US Space & Rocket Center. The replica Saturn V at the center can be seen quite aways away, especially on the nearby UAH campus. Nearby University Drive going west towards Madison has a plethora of food options, from both chains to small operations. Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante, Shaggy’s Burgers and Tacos, ChopChop and TopGolf are some of the best options in that area. One should also look at the numerous brewpub options around the area. Downtown Huntsville is also becoming a nice quaint place for a stroll. There will be a few food and drink options down there as well. The Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment complex is an old factory and mill that houses numerous small artist studios as well as food and drink from options like Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea Company and Alchemy Lounge. Fans 3 The fans are also very knowledgeable about the game and action. Many of the fans in attendance will be family or friends of the players. Access 5 Huntsville is served by several U.S. Highways, including 72, 231, 431 and an Interstate highway spur, I-565, that links the two cities of Huntsville and Decatur to I-65. The UAH campus is off of Sparkman Drive, just south of I-565. There should almost always be plenty of parking found by the soccer field. Check the signs for games that happen during normal class times. Return on Investment 4 The games are free to attend as a local credit union is sponsoring games. Extras 2 Drive around the campus of UAH and check out the beautiful surroundings, as well as the intimidating nature of the learning what happens in places such as the Optics building and the Von Braun building. See if you can see the Saturn V rocket from the soccer pitch. Final Thoughts The University of Alabama in Huntsville has managed to make a very basic, although pretty, setting into one of the better softball fields in the area. If in the area, make sure to stop in and see if you can catch a match.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Union Home Mortgage Park 1625 Ivy St. Waynesboro, VA 22980 Waynesboro Generals website Union Home Mortgage Park website Year Opened: Unknown Capacity: 350 Generals In Waynesboro Founded in 1923, the Valley Baseball League contains 11 teams playing up and down Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley. One team, the Waynesboro Generals, was founded in 1950 and plays their home games at Union Home Mortgage Park, formerly known as Kate Collins Field. The stadium is located on the grounds of Kate Collins Middle School and is home to the local high school baseball team during the spring. During the summer, when school is not in session, the Generals call it home. Waynesboro has been home to several players who would go on to play in the majors, including Mike Lowell and Brandon Inge. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand located behind home plate. Although the menu is pretty basic, the prices are extremely affordable. Barbecue sandwiches are only $3 (an extra 50 cents for slaw) while hot dogs are only $2 (an extra 50 cents for chili or slaw). Fries cost just $2, popcorn just $1.50, and drinks (soda, Water and Gatorade), chips, and candy are just $1. Blow pops are two for $1, although you can’t just get one for 50 cents, you have to get two. Bubble gum is four for a dollar, though again, you have to buy four, you can’t get one for a quarter. Keep in mind the concession stand closes at 9 PM for games which start at 7, so plan accordingly. For Sunday doubleheaders which start earlier, the closing time may vary. There is a “combo deal” available for $7 where fans can get their choice of barbecue or two hot dogs, fries or chips, and a drink, but if you do the math, it costs the same or less to buy these items individually, so this is a waste of money. Atmosphere 3 Union Home Mortgage Park is a pretty basic stadium, with some bleachers on either side of home plate and a scoreboard in left-centerfield showing the linescore and other basic information. Many fans like to bring their own chairs and either set up directly behind home plate, further down the lines between the bleachers and the dugouts, or on the large hill down the first base line. Many kids will also hang out on that hill playing catch with their friends while their parents watch the game. As in most of the Valley League, fans are not permitted to keep foul balls but can return them to the concession stand for a free freezie pop. However, this rule seemed to be ignored by many kids, who happily picked up and kept foul balls hit onto the hill. Neighborhood 3 As is typical of the Valley League, Waynesboro is a small city nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. Downtown Waynesboro is just a short drive away from the field down Ivy Street. Take that to Main Street and you will find many options, ranging from chain restaurants to local eateries like the Green Leaf Grill and cuisines ranging from Japanese to Mexican to Salvadoran. Seven Arrows Brewing company is nearby as well. Waynesboro doesn’t have all the glitz and glamor of large cities, but like elsewhere in the Valley, it does have that small town charm. Fans 5 Generals fans pack the bleachers night in and night out to watch their team. Whether they sit in the bleachers or in their own chairs throughout the ballpark, they show up in good numbers to watch their team. Many of them go to most or every home game here. As is typical of the Valley League, the crowd represents a good cross-section of the Waynesboro community, ranging from young families with small kids to older people who have been following the team for a long time. Whatever brings them out here, they cheer on the players loudly and passionately and are not afraid to heckle the umpires when they feel they have made a bad call. Things don’t get too out of hand though, and certainly not profane. This is a family-friendly environment for all fans. Access 2 If coming from the south, east, or west, Waynesboro is located directly along I-64, and the stadium is a couple miles off the highway. If coming from the north, you can theoretically take I-81 south to I-64 east, but you can save about five to ten minutes off your drive by exiting I-81 at Exit 225 and taking State Route 262 east. Route 262 actually ends just east of the interchange, and traffic continues straight onto State Route 254. This will take you right into town and you won’t need to turn again until you reach the stadium about ten miles ahead on your left. Once you arrive, there is ample parking available in the school parking lot although the traffic patterns are quite confusing. Although it is not signed as such, you enter the lot at the top, and drive down on either side to park. Going out, you don’t drive back up, but drive all the way down to the back of the lot and exit through a path there. While technically there is no prohibition on driving the “wrong” way in the lot, and thus no signs advising against it, the lanes are not wide enough to accommodate two-way traffic so you will cause people a lot of problems if you do this. There are restrooms located around the corner from the concession stand, and while they were of a sufficient size for the crowd, the men’s room was in terrible condition. The door to the stall was hanging off the hinge, exposing the user for others in the restroom to see. Additionally, as the toilet paper was hanging on a hook on the door, which was swung open and barely attached, it was impossible to reach the toilet paper without getting up off the toilet. We cannot speak for the quality of the ladies’ restroom but expect it to be similar. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are $5 for adults, and $3 for seniors, children 8 and under, and military/veterans. Concessions are pretty affordable as well, as long as you don’t waste your money on the meal deal. However, you can pay the same amount elsewhere in the Valley League for a better experience, so this cannot earn the top score here. Extras 2 There are free roster cards available by the concession stand. A second and final star for all the unique vantage points to watch the game from. Final Thoughts Although Valley League venues in general are not known for their flashiness, and Waynesboro certainly is no fancy venue either, most stadiums in the league manage to put on a great atmosphere and make up for their lack of flash with lots of charm. Unfortunately, the experience here in Waynesboro will seem like a major disappointment if you’ve been to other Valley League venues. The Generals have a great and loyal fan base and could be doing so much more here than they are. Fans who are passing through Waynesboro will certainly want to pay Union Home Mortgage Park a visit, and it is a decent enough stadium if you are able to pay it a visit, but if you have limited time in the Valley, you may want to check out other teams in the VBL instead.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park 270 Veterans Memorial Drive Harrisonburg, VA 22807 Harrisonburg Turks website Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 1,200 Harrisonburg Baseball Is No Turkey With 11 teams nestled up and down Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley, the Valley Baseball League is one of the oldest collegiate summer wood-bat leagues in America. The Harrisonburg Turks have been playing in the Valley League since 1950 and play their home games at Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park on the campus of James Madison University. Although baseball has been played here since the 1940s, the stadium was completely rebuilt and the new stadium opened in 2010. The stadium is also home to the JMU baseball team and is part of a shared complex that includes the Dukes’ softball stadium as well. The Turks’ nickname is short for “Turkeys” and alludes to the thriving poultry industry in the area. Food & Beverage 4 There is one concession stand located on the concourse which serves a decent range of options at affordable prices. Hamburgers are $4, cheeseburgers are $5, grilled chicken sandwiches are $6, chicken strips are three for $3.50, hot dogs are $3, fries are $3, pizza (cheese or pepperoni) is $2, nachos are $4, popcorn is $2, candy is $2, and freezie pops are 25 cents each. Soda (Pepsi products) are $3, Gatorade is $3, and bottled water is $2. Cash and credit cards are both accepted. Atmosphere 5 Unlikely most venues in the Valley League, Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is quite the modern facility. Walking through the gates will put you on a spacious concourse. The restrooms will be on your left and the concession stand on your right. You will then walk up a flight of steps to the top of the seating bowl and back down to your seat. There are some chairbacks behind home plate and bleachers with backs down the lines. All seats are general admission so arrive early to sit where you want. A scoreboard in the right-centerfield shows the linescore and other basic information. The Turks do a great job of promoting an exciting atmosphere here. In addition to the game on the field, fans can enjoy between innings contests ranging from a smoothie chugging race for a chance to win another free smoothie to a race where fans dress up as food, and whoever wins gets a free item they dressed up as from the concession stand. A couple of Valley League traditions are worth noting here. Your game ticket doubles as a raffle ticket for a chance to win various prizes throughout the game, so be sure to hold onto it. Additionally, fans are not permitted to keep foul balls but can return them to the concession stand for a free freezie pop. You will often see kids running down to the concourse every time a ball is hit out there. Neighborhood 5 Harrisonburg is a beautiful college town nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Although it is not large, there is a lot to do here. Macado’s is a regional restaurant chain with several locations in the Valley and surrounding area, including one right here in Harrisonburg. They are known for their burgers, wings, and delicious hot sandwiches, as well as their large collection of local sports memorabilia. Kline’s Dairy bar also has several Valley locations including two in Harrisonburg and is known for its ice cream, banana splits, and delicious milkshakes. The Magpie Diner on West Gay Street is open for breakfast and lunch and is a local favorite. Fans 5 The Turks consistently rank towards the top of the Valley League in attendance, and the stands at Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park can get pretty full. The fans cheer on the Turks, and it can get very loud here at times when the Turks make big plays. The fans are also not afraid to get on the umpires’ case when they feel they have made a bad call, although it will never get so outrageous as to not be family-friendly. There are a wide range of fans in attendance, including young families with small children watching in wonderment of it all and older people who have been following the team since they played in the old version of the stadium, and possibly much longer. Many students studying at JMU over the summer will also make the short trip over to the ballpark to take in a game. Access 4 Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is located a few miles off Interstate 81 via exit 247B. After exiting onto Market Street, continue a short while before turning left onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. Continue for about a mile and a half before the road ends at High Street. Continue through the light and you will be in the parking lot. You will need to navigate a roundabout in the middle of the parking lot to wind up in the lot nearest the stadium – other areas serve the Veterans Memorial itself or other parts of the park, although you can park there if the stadium lot fills up. Getting around the stadium once you get inside is easy enough, although it is a bit confusing to have to walk up and back down. Foul balls regularly fly onto the concourse so be careful while you are walking down there. Someone member will normally shout “Heads up!” when a ball is heading that way but be alert yourself anyway. Restrooms are located directly to the left of the entrance and are of a sufficient size for the crowd. When getting out of the stadium, you may have to wait at the traffic light for a few minutes as the timing of the cycle was not designed for such traffic patterns as occur postgame, but once you get out, you should not encounter any problems. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Turks games is only $5, while senior citizens will pay only $2, college students with ID will pay $3, and children 12 and under will pay $1. There are many opportunities to pay even less than that. Church youth groups with their pastor get in free on Sundays. Fans who dress up like a turkey get in free on Turkey Tuesday. College students get in for just $1 on Mondays. Select games even have free tickets available with a coupon in the local paper. Extras 3 There are free programs available at the entrance. A team store is located on the concourse next to the concession stand and sells Turks gear at great prices. Finally, there is a monument to veterans from Rockingham County located near the entrance to the stadium. Final Thoughts It is indisputable that Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is the most modern facility in the Valley League. While the older venues certainly have their charm in their own way, the Turks manage to create the same great atmosphere there is elsewhere in the league in a more modern stadium with all the amenities that comes with. This could easily be a minor league stadium if not for the fact that the capacity is far too small. This may very well be the best stadium in the Valley League, and that’s saying something since there are a lot of gorgeous venues here. On a warm summer’s night in Harrisonburg, a Turks game at Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is well worth a visit.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Gulf Place (Gulf Shores Main Public Beach) 101 E. Beach Blvd Gulf Shores, AL 36542 NCAA Women’s Beach Volleyball website Gulf Place website Year Opened: 2016 A National Championship comes to the Gulf Coast Every year since 2016 the top Beach Volleyball teams in the country meet up on the beautiful white, sandy beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama for the NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships. Beach Volleyball is the NCAA’s newest sport, having been officially sponsored by the NCAA since 2016. Before that sand volleyball had been a part of college sports, but only at the club or intramural level. When the NCAA took over in 2016 they changed the name from Sand Volleyball to the more official Beach Volleyball. As of the 2022 season there are 64 Division I, 16 D2, and 6 D3 schools with Beach Volleyball programs. With only D1 having enough schools to support a championship, all three divisions are eligible to participate in the NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship. The California schools dominate the field every year, with USC taking home four titles (including the 2022 tournament) and UCLA taking home two titles. For the first five years only 8 teams were invited, but for 2022 the field was expanded to include 16 teams with a different format than in years past. There are currently eight D1 conferences for Beach Volleyball, so the winners of the conferences are invited to participate. In addition, two teams from the East Region and two teams from the West Region are given bids, while four at-large schools are also selected. The at-large teams selected could be D2 or D3 schools, making Beach Volleyball the only NCAA sponsored sport where schools from different divisions compete against each other. Food & Beverage 3 The Beach Volleyball National Championships take place in a temporary area literally right on the beach. Because of this there are no permanent concessions on site. However, there are several tents on site selling drinks and snacks, and there are also two food trucks on property selling food – an acai bowl truck called Sowl Bowlz and a Chicken Shack truck. The tents basically sell cold beverages like bottled water ($2), Powerade ($3), bottled sodas ($4), and 12 oz. canned beer ($6) available in Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, and Bud Light. They also had a bartender who was making mixed drinks at one of the tents. There are also a ton of restaurants within walking distance of the venue, so since you are free to come and go as you want my recommendation would be get something to eat at one of the many local seafood restaurants in Gulf Shores. Atmosphere 4 The scene here is pretty cool, as they literally just fence in a wide area of the beach and set up 11 temporary beach volleyball courts, with 5 being used for match play and the other 6 being used for practice. This is the first year since 2019 that the tournament has operated with fan attendance. With 16 teams being invited for the first time ever, the tournament has expanded to five days. The event kicks off Wednesday morning at 9 am with the first round, and all 16 teams playing in a single elimination format. All matches are contested under five sets, with the first team to win three sets advancing. The early rounds of the tournament will start at about 9 am and go until it gets dark. Thursday is a practice day for the teams, as the tournament switches to double elimination on Friday. The teams then play back-to-back all day on Friday and Saturday until there are only two teams left, which play for the National Championship on Sunday, as well as the third-place game which is also played on Sunday. When the schools play, they use all five different courts, so it can get kind of confusing to know which one to watch, as there will be five different matches going on at the same time. Since there isn’t an official game day program or anything to familiarize you with any of the players, your best bet is to just walk from court to court. The official grounds are blocked by two large fences to the east and west, but to the south there is a small three-foot wooden fence, so people walking the beach are able to stop and view the action as the venue is a part of the public beach. They even have a large videoboard visible from the water. The waves were calm during most of the tournament, so it is possible to float in the water and watch the action as it is shown on ESPN. The area where the matches take place is directly outside The Hangout, a popular beach-side restaurant best known for hosting the Hangout Fest every year. The grounds around The Hangout have a pretty cool set up with all kinds of banners and signs welcoming you to Gulf Shores and the Beach Volleyball Championship. The NCAA does a good job at making this a pretty cool event – they have a giant blown up Beach Volleyball with all the team logos, and they have a giant sand sculpture created on the beach. Also, around the beach outside the official grounds there are over 60 beach volleyball nets set up on the beach, hosting over 900 beach volleyball players for a junior tournament, the largest such in the country. There are all kinds of tents set up around the nets with different groups playing. I saw people from different beach volleyball clubs around the country, and they were even doing beach volleyball camps run by different organizations. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) even had a tent set up, and it looked like they were doing some sort of tryouts – they were even giving away free koozies and I saw perhaps the best beach volleyball player to ever play the sport, three-time Olympic gold medalist Misty-May Treanor. There is one main gate where they take your ticket to the east of the entrance to The Hangout. Once inside the grounds it is relaxed and you are able to walk from court to court to view the action. Each court has a five-row metal bleacher setup surrounding the court, and in front of the bleachers are three rows of chair back seating using the types of chairs you would find at the beach; these seats are first come first serve and probably about 10-15 feet from the actual court. They have a rather large merch stand located around the courts selling t-shirts and memorabilia, and also have cabana-style seating under a giant elevated air-conditioned canopy tent called the NCAA Experience, where they have a full spread of food and drinks and TVs to watch. This is where the ESPN broadcasters sit during the match as well. Everything is laid back here and as the event is all day, you are free to come and go as you please. Neighborhood 5 There are several bars and restaurants in the immediate area for you to watch the matches from, one being The Hangout of course, but another is the famous Pink Pony Pub, which at over 50 years old is Gulf Shores’ oldest bar. This cool dive bar is located right on the beach, and you can get a perfect view of all the courts from the front deck of this bar. There is also a Hooter’s next door as well, though you can’t see the sand courts from there. The Hangout is located right where the main road into town (Hwy 59) meets the beach. Around this intersection you will find a ton of restaurants, as well as tourist and souvenir shops along this little stretch. Popular restaurants in the area include mostly seafood with my favorites being Sea N Suds, Gulf Islands Grill, Mikee’s Seafood, Steamed Oyster Bar, Shrimp Basket, King Neptune’s, Oyster House, Tacky Jack’s, Lulu’s, and Starlight Diner. The town of Gulf Shores is a little more developed than neighboring Orange Beach, so you will find a lot more restaurants and shopping in the beach community. You can also find the Tanger Outlets and a decent-sized strip mall just north of city limits. You can also venture into Orange Beach and shop at The Wharf as well; this upscale shopping center is located right on the back bay. You could spend weeks in Gulf Shores and still have plenty to do. The main attraction is the beach and the water, but there are other things to do as well. For families the Gulf Shores Zoo is located nearby, and Waterville USA is a popular water park with a few roller coasters. For outdoor lovers Gulf State Park is nearby and features over 30 miles of trails through various sand dunes and woods; they also have cabins for camping and a pier for fishing as well. In addition there is Fort Morgan, a popular Civil War fort located about 20 miles to the west of Gulf Shores, which makes for a great day to explore the ruins of an old fort. Fans 4 This was the first year since 2019 that fans were allowed to attend the tournament, and they showed up setting an NCAA beach volleyball attendance record. Over 10,000 spectators showed up over the five days, marking a 7% increase in attendance over the 2019 event. The beaches were packed with people, and the roads headed into Gulf Shores were lined with people, as it was a typical summer beach day on the Gulf Coast. Just because there weren’t many area schools participating doesn’t mean there wasn’t a mix of fans who traveled from out of state. LSU and Florida State had the largest group of fans who traveled, but I also talked to some UCLA fans who had traveled from California, some Georgia State fans from Atlanta, and some TCU fans from Texas. So it was a cool mixture of all these school’s different fan bases gathering together on the beach. It is also possible to watch some of the tournament from outside the fence, as the wooden fence is only about waist high. There is about a 100-foot section of the beach open to the public to the south of the grounds where people were walking; I saw many people with tents set up, playing cornhole and drinking a cold beverage while watching the beach volleyball action unfold. You could also watch the action from the water as well. The weather was excellent during this week, and I took a dip in the ocean and could get excellent views of the courts and the videoboard. The Pink Pony balcony has excellent views of the court as well. A tournament like this is also more of a spectator sport, as most people will not be familiar with many of the beach volleyball players or teams playing in the tournament. An event like this doesn’t make a great event to watch on Tv either, but the party and festive atmosphere, along with the beautiful beach setting, makes attending this event worth it. Access 2 The one bad part about coming to this event is just getting here. Gulf Shores is located on the far southern end of the state about 60 miles southeast of Mobile. If coming from out of town I-10 will be your best bet – just take the Highway 59 exit (Exit 44), then go all the way south (about 35 miles) and you will pop out right on Beach Blvd. Be warned though this highway can be a nightmare this time of the year with traffic, and it can take upwards of over an hour just to get from the interstate to the beach. You could instead branch over to the next exit and take the Baldwin Beach Express, which is a little less traveled but means driving a longer distance, as well as paying a toll. But there is a giant Buc-ees on this road, and the gas station superstore makes for a great pit stop for people coming to the beach. After fighting the beach traffic and getting down here you will still have to find somewhere to park, and as there is no public transportation in Gulf Shores, parking and walking will be your best option. There are several pay lots around The Hangout, including the main parking lot that charges a whopping $20 a car to park. However, there are several pay lots a couple of blocks to the west. The 4th and 6th street public beach access points charge $5 per car but have plenty of parking; you will just have to walk a couple of blocks. I was lucky enough to have a friend staying at a nearby condo, so I was able to park there and ride my bike over. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are priced as follows: General Admission Day passes for all day are $25, with courtside tickets selling for $35 a day. You could also purchase the four-day General Admission pass for $55, or courtside for all four days at $85. The NCAA Fan Experience tickets sell for $250, and that grants access to the large A/C hospitality tent for all five days. Looking at the ticket prices, tickets may seem kind of high to an average person, but you are getting to see some of the top beach volleyball players in the country. Some of these players have competed at past Olympics, so you are getting to see the best beach volleyball players. You are also getting to see an NCAA National Champion get crowned, which regardless of the sport is always pretty cool. Also just being able to come to the beaches of Gulf Shores for the weekend is worth the trip alone. The hardest part is just getting here, but once on location you can enjoy the day walking the beach free of charge, and you can’t beat that. Extras 3 One point for the number of sporting events held in the Gulf Shores-Orange Beach area. Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Sports and Events partnered with UAB to host this tournament. Besides the NCAA beach volleyball championship, the two towns host tons of different sporting events and tournaments throughout the year, ranging from youth to college sports. The nearby Orange Beach Sportsplex hosts the SEC Soccer Tournament for nine days every November, bringing fans from all 14 SEC schools to the area. The sportsplex also hosts the NAIA Soccer National Championship every year, and multiple D1 and D2 men’s and women’s tournaments. With championship golf courses, beautiful water for fishing, and countless tournaments every weekend, this area of south Alabama is living up to its name as a national sports and recreation hub for the Gulf Coast region. Another extra for the Hangout Fest which takes place generally the weekend following the Beach Volleyball Championship. They do an excellent job at breaking down the volleyball courts and constructing multiple stages to host the notable acts who play during the three-day music fest. Past performers at the Fest include the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Widespread Panic, Tom Petty, Foo Fighters, the Dave Matthews Band, Travis Scott, Post Malone, Fall Out Boy, Kendrick Lamar, Outkast, Paul Simon, The Weekend, and more. Lastly an extra point for the setting itself, as you cannot pick a more prime location to have an event like this. I can’t think of any sport where you can sit in the ocean and still watch the action as it happens right in front of you. This is a really cool event to attend, and one of the more unique sporting events I’ve ever attended. In fact there are only a couple more years for you to experience the Beach Volleyball Championship here, as the tourney will move to Huntington Beach, CA in 2025.

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Jack Adam Stadium 1915 Quebec Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45205 Cincinnati Steam website Jack Adam Stadium website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 300 Full Steam Ahead in Cincinnati The Cincinnati Steam are members of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League; the team began operations in 2006 in the league. The organization plays at three different venues in Cincinnati, including the Reds Youth Academy, a couple of games at Xavier University, and Jack Adam Stadium, the home of the Elder High School baseball program. However, this is not your typical high school baseball field. The $ 500,000 stadium was funded entirely through donations, including Elder alumnus Jack Adam who covered half the cost of its construction. The ornate brick venue opened in 2014 and is part of the Panther Athletic Complex that includes practice facilities for the high school soccer, golf, tennis, and track and field programs. The stadium features an arched entrance and towers to resemble the design of nearby Elder High School. The Steam has played at other locations in town but feels that the Elder ballpark is their most prominent home. The club won championships in 2008 and 2009 and was named after Queen City’s riverboat heritage along the Ohio River. However, in a city where “red” is the color of baseball, how does “Steam blue” compare as an option for the baseball dollar? NOTE: In September 2023 the Steam announced via Twitter that it would be on hiatus for the 2024 Great Lakes season to return to play in 2025. Food & Beverage 3 There are food and drink options available at the ballpark. Hot dogs, sausages, and burgers are fresh off the grill and cost $1 each. Small packs of potato chips are included with your purchase, and you can wash them down with cans of Pepsi-Cola varieties. Since it’s a high school venue, alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the grounds. It’s not a lot of variety, but it makes up for the cost and taste. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark seats 300 people and includes bucket seats behind home plate with bleacher seating down each baseline. There is giant netting that protects fans, while an operational press box handles game-day announcements and broadcast operations. The seating behind home is colored purple after the Elder and packed with fans from both ball clubs-the opponent Hamilton is 29 miles north at Foundation Field. The brick facade is tastefully decorated with a giant arched entrance with the name of the school etched on top. The stadium feels more like a castle than a place for baseball and includes the state championship of the high school’s past. There is also a bench with a replica of Mr. Red to pose with pictures. The smell of the grill, banter from both benches and the cheering from the crowd complement the atmosphere. However, there are no on-field promotions, team mascot, or overly-hype PA guy. Here, the focus is on the game on the diamond; something that should please the baseball purist, but there are no rosters, scoresheets, or game-day programs for those such purists. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is in the Price Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati in the city’s southwest corner along the Ohio River. It is one of the oldest outlying settlements of the city; it has gone through a revitalization that includes renovated older homes and the promotion of commercial and artistic opportunities in the region. The best options for eating include the Incline Public House, Nation Westwood, Primavista, and Incline Smoke Shack. Tacos El Joven and Veracruz Mexican Grill are two other options for authentic cuisine. Price Hill Chili has been in operation since 1962 and is one of the city’s local chili parlors, but offers breakfast all day, double-decker sandwiches, pasta, entrees, and burgers. A few miles down the Ohio River is Great American Ballpark , the home of the Cincinnati Reds and the club’s hall of fame. Across the river is the Newport Aquarium in Kentucky, and a mile up from the Great American is Rhinegeist Brewing. Two great attractions in the area include the Cincinnati Museum Center and the American Sign Museum. Fans 4 The Steam attracts an enthusiastic crowd to the ball game, although having the local Hamilton Joes added a few more fans in the seats. The crowd concentrated on the game and remained focused throughout the nine innings. Due to the rather small size of the venue, the stadium felt much fuller than normal. Access 3 Jack Adam Stadium is more than a mile away from Elder High School. It caused a little confusion, as I had to ask twice how to get to the ballpark by a security guard at the football stadium on campus. He nicely pointed out that there was an address at the entrance to the football stadium, but type in Panther Athletic Complex into your GPS to find the ballpark without a problem. Once at the complex, the ballpark features ample parking, easy access to the concourse and bathrooms, and more than enough room to move around. Signage off the main road is also visible for the first-time visitor of a Steam game. Return on Investment 4 This is where the ballclub excels in terms of return on investment. All games are free, food options are a buck, and merchandise ranges from 10 to $15. In this day and age, at any level of Summer collegiate baseball, these prices cannot be beaten. Hot dogs and burgers are a dollar, fresh off the grill, New Era caps are $15 in three varieties, and drift t-shirts are a bargain at $10. To say that a Steam game won’t break your wallet is an understatement. It is how a game at this level should be done. Extras 3 The Cincinnati Steam earns points for one-dollar concessions and $15 ballcaps. The club gets another point for free admission to all home games. The final point is for the brick facade of the stadium and the arched entrance that stands out among the better high school ballparks in the area. Final Thoughts There is nothing truly fancy about the game-day operations for Steam in terms of gimmicks and promotions. Oh, that makes up for the cost and fan appreciation during the game. I have to say this is one of those small little ballparks that’s worth checking out that’s easy on the wallet and enjoyable at the same time. --------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Bart Wilhelm and Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 ISG Field 601 Reed St Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato MoonDogs website ISG Field website Year Opened: 1961 (renovated 2018) Capacity: 1,500 Everyone’s Gone to the MoonDogs Playing their home games in the city of Mankato in south-central Minnesota, the Mankato MoonDogs are a summer collegiate baseball team in the Northwoods League. The MoonDogs play their home games at ISG Field, which has been home to several different teams since opening in 1961, ranging from minor league to high school to its current summer collegiate tenant. It was originally known as Key City Park, was renamed after local sportswriter Franklin Rogers in 1977, and was renamed again in 2021 thanks to a naming rights deal with local business ISG. In addition to the MoonDogs, it hosts numerous high school games as well as Bethany Lutheran College, a Division III school. Food & Beverage 4 There are several different concession stands at ISG Field. The main one is located right in front of the entrance and offers a wide range of options. Main meals include hot dogs ($3), brats ($4), hamburgers ($6, extra 50 cents for cheese plus another dollar for bacon), veggie burgers ($6), and veggie cheeseburgers ($6.50), and grilled chicken sandwiches for $6. French fries are $3, chicken strips are $5, mini donuts are $5, and local favorite fried cheese curds are $7. Chips are $1.50, while soda, water, Gatorade, and energy drinks are available for between $2.50 and $3.50. There are several additional stands further up the right field line or on the berm in right field which sell snacks, nachos, tacos in a bag, and more. Beer is available at a table behind home plate for those of age. Just be sure to pick up a wristband first to prove you’re 21. Atmosphere 5 Although the players are in college and the league is only active for about two months a year, don’t let that fool you into thinking this isn’t a great stadium. It is divided into several different sections – reserved chairbacks behind home plate, bleachers further up the lines, berm seating in right field, suites beyond the right field fence, and The Dog Pound near third base, which comes with all-you-can-eat food and soft drinks. Every seat offers a great view of the game. There are scoreboards, a large one in right field which shows player stats and occasionally video, and a smaller one in left field which just shows the linescore and other basic information. The MoonDogs put on a great show here. The PA announcer does a great job of engaging the crowd without being too over the top, there are between-innings contests during many breaks in the action, and a 50-50 raffle gives fans the chance to win a cash prize. The Moondogs have a dog mascot named Muttnik who can be seen on the field and roving the stands interacting with fans throughout the game. From the moment you walk into the stadium until the moment you leave, you will find a great atmosphere here in Mankato. Neighborhood 3 Mankato is a typical mid-sized Minnesota city. The Madison East Center shopping mall is a short drive or even a walk away from the stadium and offers many options for visitors to the area. Tav on the Ave is a nearby pub and local favorite as well as a sponsor of the team. There are plenty of other options nearby ranging from Mexican restaurants to taphouses to pizza and gyros. Ultimately what you’ll find here in Mankato is typical of other cities in the area. While it’s not the most exciting place to visit, you certainly won’t be bored here either, and it’s not like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Fans 5 The MoonDogs draw very well to their home games, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. In a stadium that officially seats 1,500, the crowd will often exceed that number and sometimes goes over 2,000. Fans will pack the grandstand, the bleachers, and the berm and cheer on their MoonDogs. You will occasionally get fans from visiting teams as well, particularly if it is a relatively close team like Rochester, but most of the fans are here to cheer on their beloved MoonDogs. If you are a fan of the visiting team, you can expect nothing worse than some good-natured joking, so that is not a problem, fortunately. That being said, in addition to being large in numbers, MoonDogs fans are passionate, knowledgeable, and supportive of their team. You’ll hear them cheering throughout the game if the action on the field merits it. You will find a great crowd here at ISG Field and that’s one of the reasons the MoonDogs have been so successful over the years. Access 2 There are several roads into Mankato depending on where you are coming from, including State Route 60, US Route 14, and US Route 169. Although none of these are expressways, at least not for their whole length, you can usually make good time on them. Once you get to the stadium, parking is available at a lot right outside it, but it fills up quickly, forcing fans to park on the street or the nearby shopping mall if they do not arrive early enough. The outer concourse behind the seating area is more than wide enough, but getting around the inner concourse between the 100 and 200 levels of the grandstand to get to your seat can be cramped and difficult, especially if kids are running around, which there usually are. If you are seated in the front rows of the 200 level, your view will often be blocked by fans walking by. There are restrooms located down the first baseline, and there can occasionally be a bit of a line for them but nothing too outrageous. Getting from one seating area to another can also be complicated to those unfamiliar with the stadium, although it’s well-signed what is where. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $8 for general admission bleachers seating, while seating in the grandstand is $10 for reserved seats. Dog Pound seating is $30 for adults and $15 for kids and comes with unlimited food and soft drinks plus three beer vouchers for those of age. If you don’t get the all-you-can-eat package, concessions are still somewhat affordable, although some items seem to be priced more affordably than others. All in all, a visit to a MoonDogs game won’t break the bank and is an affordable way to spend a warm summer night taking in a ballgame. Extras 4 There is a team store at a table on the concourse which sells a wide selection of MoonDogs gear. Visitors should check out the banners on the concourse behind home plate with images of each year in MoonDogs history. There are programs for sale for $1 near the entrance. A fourth and final star for all the unique vantage points to watch a game from. Final Thoughts Like many Northwoods League stadiums, ISG Field is old, but it still has its charm. The MoonDogs promote a trip here as a “nine-inning vacation” and it certainly lives up to that billing. While other parts of the country cheer on their local minor league team, a trip to Mankato and ISG Field proves a summer collegiate game can be just as good an experience as a professional one, if not even better. Baseball fans visiting Minnesota in the summer should be sure to check out a MoonDogs game while they are in the area.

Photos by Bart Wilhelm and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mayo Field 403 E Center St Rochester, MN 55904 Rochester Honkers website Mayo Field website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 3,570 A Mayo Clinic Mayo Field was built in 1951 on land donated to the city of Rochester by the Mayo Brothers, founders of the world-famous Mayo Clinic. Specified in that donation was that this plot of land must be used for baseball. For a time the Rochester Royals played here as a Kansas City Royals affiliate. When they left, the local town ball team took the name “Royals” and continues to play at Mayo Field today. The Honkers have been members of the Northwoods League since their founding in 1994. They have won five championships over their history, most recently in 2009. Eight Honker alumni have reached the Major Leagues. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions at Mayo Field are impressive for a ballpark of this size. The majority of the stands are located underneath the grandstand. Visitors to Mayo Field will be pleased with the diverse options available here. The main stand offers your basic burgers and dogs, with some interesting options thrown in for good measure. The Angry Goose Burger adds pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, Holy Smoke BBQ sauce, and spicy pickles. You can amp up your nachos by adding shredded chicken, jalapenos, and Holy Smoke BBQ sauce, creating “Goose Pit Nachos.” Other items you may be surprised to find at this small stand are bratwursts, plant-based burgers, and cheese curds. Fans looking for a snack should check out the Sweet Shop, where different flavors of gourmet popcorn, Dippin’ Dots, ice cream novelties, and other sweet treats are sold. Check out the Apple Nachos, which are apple slices doused in caramel sauce, sweet cream, and crushed butterfingers. Pepsi products are featured at Mayo Field. Fans looking for an adult beverage can choose between Bud Light, and Michelob Golden Light ( a favorite in the area), along with craft brews from Castle Danger and Broken Bat Breweries. Atmosphere 3 At a smaller, older park like Mayo Field, you wouldn’t expect an elaborate game day presentation, and you won’t get one. That doesn’t mean the Honkers staff don’t put on a nice show, because they do. They do a good job of mixing in some modern entertainment with traditional touches. The Honkers mascot, Slider, basically a person with a giant baseball on his/her head, roams the ballpark interacting with fans, presenting sponsor ads, and helping with the typical on-field shenanigans. The guys in the booth get in on the act by playing silly songs for every opposing batter. There’s also a “Beer Batter” and “Root Beer Batter.” If the designated batter either strikes out or gets a hit, beer or root beer is half price for the rest of the inning. The root beer batter had a good night during Stadium Journey’s visit, as virtually every kid in attendance seemed to have a root beer in hand. There’s a party deck down the left field line available for groups along with the Grand Slam Patio, a beer garden available to all fans. Both areas were packed during our visit. The Honkers run the usual array of between-inning games, including the water balloon home run derby, dizzy bat race, and the like. A scoreboard in right-center field shows basic game information. Neighborhood 2 Although Mayo Field is located close to downtown Rochester, there’s not a whole lot near the ballpark to attract visiting fans. The nearby downtown area does offer numerous options for eating and drinking before or after a Honkers game. “Historic Third Street” contains a bunch of options packed together in a small area. For fans of craft beer, be sure to check out Forager Brewery and Café for great beer, excellent food, and live music. With the legendary Mayo Clinic located in town, there is no shortage of choices in terms of lodging. The twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are about an hour and a half drive to the north. Fans 3 Even though Rochester is a decent-sized city, there’s a real small-town vibe going on at Mayo Field. Perhaps it’s due to the presence of families and kids running around the grandstand throughout the game. Perhaps it’s due to the groups in attendance and the fans who have been sitting together for years. Whatever the reason, Mayo Field is a place where you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family. The Honkers draw a shade under 1,000 fans per game, which is a bit under the Northwoods League average. Stadium Journey recently attended a Sunday evening game that drew a crowd much larger than average, so plan accordingly. Access 3 Mayo Field is located near downtown Rochester, MN, a small city of just under 120,000 residents located in southeast Minnesota. Routes 14 and 52 serve the area, but the ballpark is located a couple of miles from the highway. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the field, but it’s dangerously close in terms of the potential for a foul ball to come crashing through your windshield. Visitors are better served to park a little farther from the field. Should this lot be full, additional parking is located on the other side of the Zumbro River. If you arrive early, there’s a nice river walk that runs next to the ballpark down to Silver Lake. It’s worth a look on a nice summer day. Once inside Mayo Field, there’s not a lot of room to roam. Concession stands line the area underneath the grandstand and you may find yourself navigating your way through the lines that form in the area. The ramps up to the seating area are incredibly steep, so be careful if you have mobility issues. The first two rows of seating are individual stadium seats, which are sold as box seats. They come with a wait service. The rest of the seats consist of metal bleachers with backs. There is a small group area at the top of the grandstand and a pair of party decks down the left field line. Some of the best seats in the place belong to the residents of the condo complex next door, whose balconies hang over the right field wall. The bathrooms are incredibly small (the men’s room consists of two stalls), but no lines were noticed during Stadium Journey’s visit. Time your trips to the concession stands carefully, as lines do form throughout the game. One note to team management: a coat of paint would go a long way towards improving the look of the old place. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Honkers games cost $15 for box seats (which feature wait service), $12 for reserved seats, and $10 for general admission seating (the last section of the grandstand). Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the park, and concessions are affordable. Overall, a night at a Honkers game is an affordable entertainment option for local baseball fans. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for some of the small, but nice touches to be found around the ballpark. A free roster sheet/game notes are available to all fans, and the entire Northwoods League standings are posted on the side of the grandstand (no small feat in a league with 24 teams). A banner hangs on the fence commemorating Honkers championships, but this was blocked by equipment. Final Thoughts When the Mayo Brothers donated the land that Mayo Field stand on to the city of Rochester, they specified in the deed that this plot of land had to be used for baseball, so you know that baseball is intricately tied to the community. Mayo Field has that nice old-timey feel to it that fits this level of baseball perfectly. If you find yourself in southern Minnesota, this is a worthy Stadium Journey. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 York Lions Stadium York University 4700 Keele St Toronto, ON M3J 1P3 York Lions football website York Lions Stadium website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 4,000 The New Pride of the Lions For five years, the York Lions looked across campus, longing for better days. In 2015, York University in Toronto opened York Lions Stadium for the 2015 PanAm/Parapan Games which were taking place in the GTA. The former CIBC Pan Am and Parapan Am Athletics Stadium was the home for athletics and would end up also hosting the 2017 North American Indigenous Games and 2017 Invictus Games games. The Lions were a stone's throw away at Alumni Field @ York Stadium , a far less comfortable or modern stadium. The question always seemed to be why could York Lions Stadium host the York Lions football team. Renovations to the stadium would take place including a new turf field and the removal of the running track to make York Lions Stadium an appropriate facility to host USports football and Canadian Premier League soccer. In 2021, the Lions would play their first home game at their new home against the Toronto Varsity Blues in somewhat of a downpour. The York Lions, formerly the York Yeomen, have fielded a football team since 1968. The last two decades have been particularly tough for the Lions who have not made the playoffs since 2004. The Lions remain one of only two USports football programs to never win a conference title. Hopefully, the new home of the Lions can help change their fortunes and greater success can be found on the gridiron in North Toronto. Food & Beverage 2 The concession options are pretty limited at York Lions Stadium. During the game that was reviewed, there were three food trucks parked behind the south endzone which provided food for patrons. There is a regular concession stand in York Lions Stadium, but for the game reviewed, this is where the team branded clothing was sold. Keeping in mind that the game that was reviewed was the first of the season and before the vast majority of students are on campus and before regular classes have started, it is possible that the concession situation is different for games later in the season. Atmosphere 4 The York Lions have gone from one of the worst facilities in USports to one of the best. York Lions Stadium provides a modern, single grandstand on the west side of a brand new field-turf field which is oriented from north to south. There is no real main entry as the main structure on the west side offers two gate entries at either end. For Lions games, the south entry is unavailable and fans must enter on the north side through Gate 1. As compared to other USports football venues, the main grandstand is a skyscraper and can accurately be described as tall and skinny. Outside of Gate 1, where the ticket booth also stands, is an Indigenous piece of stone art which is unique and catches the eye. The exterior of the main grandstand is more functional than beautiful, but the materials and colours used are not eyesores. It is clear by the size of the main building that there is more going on than just a simple set of seats for football. Past the south endzone stands a videoboard that is the best in the league and the Lions gameday staff use it well for the video feed and the display of minor statistics. Once past the ticket entry, fans are to ascend two flights of stairs to the main, outdoor, concourse behind the seating. Nine sections of plastic, traditional stadium chairs make up the seating area, which sits on a significant slope, keeping fans as close to the action as possible. There are no bleacher seats, other than those above the press box, which are not in use for Lions games, which is a massive upgrade over other OUA facilities. The press box and suites give the Lions opportunities to host media and VIPs that are not available around the league. Overall, the physical building offers a host of possibilities, and is the class of the conference. The gameday atmosphere is run by students and is fairly simple. Fans ascending the grandstand from the north end are met with a double line of cheerleaders welcoming them to the game. Players enter the playing field from the southwest corner through a large, inflatable Lion, and a smoke machine. The sound system at York Lions Stadium is top notch and does not provide annoying echo often found in other stadiums. The Lions cheerleaders cheer from the stands, which is unique, and the mascot, Yeo, can be found participating in promotions and roaming the sidelines. Neighbourhood 4 York University is located at the north end of Toronto, in what was formerly the city of North York before amalgamation. With Steeles Ave. at the northern border of the Keele Campus, where York Lions Stadium is located, there are a few pre and post game food and drink options available. The York Lions field a full complement of athletic teams including basketball, which plays at Tait McKenzie Centre and hockey at Canlan Ice Sports York , both of which are on the Keele Campus. York United FC of CPL and Toronto Arrows of MLR also share York Lions Stadium with the Lions football and soccer teams. Sobeys Stadium is also on the Campus of York University and this is the home for the Canadian Open tennis tournament. There are other major sports in Toronto, but all are at the southern end of the city while York is located at the extreme north. The Toronto Blue Jays , Toronto Maple Leafs , Toronto Raptors , Toronto FC , Toronto Argonauts , and Toronto Marlies all play close to Lake Ontario in the south. The University of Toronto fields Varsity Blues football , basketball and hockey among other teams and Toronto Metro hosts basketball and hockey in the former Maple Leaf Gardens. There are plenty of other tourist options in Toronto. At the north end of the city, fans are just minutes away from the City of Vaughan, which is home to Canada’s Wonderland and Vaughan Mills Shopping Mall. Also, up the street from the campus gate is Black Creek Pioneer Village. Further south, the theatre scene is among the best in North America and in the late summer the Canadian National Exhibition is on at Exhibition Place. For visiting fans, there are plenty of places to stay. Fans may want to consider Best Western Toronto North York and Staybridge Suites Toronto-Vaughan which are very close to York University. Fans 3 A York Lions football fan is the definition of diehard. For those who have followed the program for many years, there has been little to cheer about. It is difficult to assess fans in OUA football as attendance figures are not always published. The game that was reviewed did have an estimated 800 to 1000 fans in attendance. It must be noted that this game was scheduled before classes began and the majority of students had yet to make their way to campus. It is expected that more fans would be in attendance later, but there was a surprising number of York supporters inhouse to mix with visiting fans. Access 4 York Lions Stadium is located near the Black Creek neighbourhood of Toronto. It is not difficult to get to, however, Toronto traffic, even in the north end, is significant. Steeles Avenue, the northern border of campus, is among the busiest streets in the city. However, proximity to Highways 400 and 407 is very close. Fans traveling should be aware that Highway 407 is a toll road. There is sufficient parking on campus and fans will be required to pay a nominal parking fee. York utilizes the Honk app for ease in paying for parking. For fans wanting to take public transit, the Pioneer Village station is at the north end of campus, near the stadium. Fans are able to take the TTC from here down to Union Station if they wish. There are also York Region Transit buses that stop at the Pioneer Village station. Fans should check the TTC or YRT websites for fares, maps and schedules. Getting around York Lions Stadium does come with plenty of stairs. Those challenged with mobility difficulties may find some challenges here. There is plenty of space behind the seating area for fans to stand or sit with wheelchairs if necessary. The washrooms are adequate for the facility. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the York Lions are just $10 for adults. There’s a $2.50 discount for seniors and youth and York University students and kids under 12 are free. This is a terrifically low price for any kind of sporting event. The only thing keeping this score for ROI from being perfect is the lack of success the Lions have shown on the field. With better facilities, perhaps a better product will show up. Extras 2 An extra mark for York University investing in their football program by completing the renovations to York Lions Stadium and inviting the football team to play there. An extra mark for the Red and Blue Bowl, which is a rivalry game York plays in every season against the Toronto Varsity Blues. In some cases a victory in the Red-Blue Bowl is the only victory either team will achieve during the season. Final Thoughts The longing has ended and the York Lions are secure in their new den. York Lions Stadium provides the Lions with one of, if not the best football facilities in the conference. It will be interesting to see if this can translate in recruiting better talent on the field and a few more checkmarks in the ‘W’ column. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Joe Faber Field 5001 Veterans Dr St Cloud, MN 56303 Map It St Cloud Rox website Joe Faber Field website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 2,000 Granite City Baseball The St Cloud Rox baseball team is a member of the wood bat collegiate Northwoods League. They came to St Cloud MN in 1997 as the St Cloud River Bats. After being sold in 2012, the league changed the team name to the Rox. The St Cloud Rox were a team in the former Northern League who played in St Cloud from 1946 – 1971. The name Rox represents the quarry (mining) industry in St Cloud (also known as Granite City), which has over 30 granite quarries in the surrounding area. The team plays their home games at Joe Faber Field, a stadium in the Municipal Athletic Complex. The complex has two baseball fields, two hockey areas, a golf course, and a Veterans Plaza. Joe Faber Field opened in 1998 and sits just 200 feet from the other ballfield, Dick Putz Field. Winning the Northwoods League championship as the River Bats in 1998, 2000, and 2007, the Rox entity won their last league championship in 2017. Food & Beverage 3 Joe Faber Field sells traditional stadium fare at reasonable prices. Entrées run $4.50 to $7 and comprise burgers, dogs, and tasty brats. Fries, chicken tenders, spicy chicken sandwiches, pizza, pulled pork bbq sandwiches, and taco in the bag round out the entrée menu. For snacks, expect to find nachos, candy, popcorn, pretzels, mini donuts, cookies, peanuts, ice cream, etc. You know … all that healthy stuff. Snacks cost $1.50 to $6. Sodas are Coke products ($3.50). Domestic ($5.50) and craft beer ($6.50), as well as wine ($6.50), are the adult beverages. Miller is the popular domestic beer. Hard Lemonade, White Claw, Leinenkugel, Hop Valley, and local Beaver Island fall under the craft beer menu heading. Uncommon at other Northwoods League stadiums, Dan the Beer Man roams the stands. Atmosphere 2 Except for a very few ‘prime seating areas,’ all the seats are uncomfortable narrow, cramped bleachers with backs with no room to move. Most of the seating area is behind home plate; fourteen rows of grandstand seating. A busy party deck is on the third base side, while bleachers in the sun occupy the first base. Grandstand seating in the shade, and we recommend those seats on those hot sticky Minnesota days and evenings. A thick netting is suspended in front of the seating areas to prevent foul balls from injuring fans. The MAC installed a brand new video board in center field before the 2022 season. It shows the lineup of the team at bat, the player at bat’s name, number and season stats, and advertisements. A separate dot matrix scoreboard in center field shows the traditional line score by inning. The game day staff posts the starting lineup in the entrance lobby. All that makes it easy to keep track of the goings on in the game. The field consists of natural grass and real dirt. Pretty pine trees border the outfield wall making for an attractive backdrop. Joe Faber Field Scoreboard, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The game day operations play incessant, painfully loud music/noise between each and every pitch. Fans are not able to talk with their neighbors nor can Dan the Beer Man hear you when ordering a brew. Ear plugs are suggested. The game day staff provides entertainment between every half inning, many of which involves fan participation. These include trivia questions, the dirtiest car in the parking lot, hometown hero recognition, and more. A mascot ‘Chisel’ roams the stands as kids clamor to meet him and get a photo or an autograph. The music is just too loud and the seating too narrow for this to be an ideal place to watch a game. Neighborhood 3 Joe Faber Field is one of the venues of the Municipal Athletic Complex 3 ½ miles northwest of downtown St Cloud MN. A shaded golf course is adjacent to the ballpark, as are the other sports facilities of the MAC. Restaurants and hotels are not within walking distance, but visitors can find many downtown or two miles south near Heritage Park. We suggest eating or drinking at Olde Brick House (Irish) and 7 West Taphouse (American). For local craft beer, visit Beaver Island Brewery (no food), where the staff makes customers feel comfortable and welcome. Beaver Island Brewing St Cloud MN, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Almost every chain brand hotel, low-end to high-end, is within five miles of the ballpark; the closest a Hampton Inn & Suites about 1 ½ miles away. Be sure to visit the Munsinger and the Clemens Gardens when in the area; two very different gardens in which to admire plants and fountains, and stroll along the Mississippi River at a very reasonable price of zero. Other places for a stroll are Beaver Island Trail and the Downtown River Walk. For an indoor activity, visit the Stearns History Museum, whose interesting and educational exhibits change periodically. Take a drive through St Cloud State University Campus and see if Herb Brooks National Hockey Center is open. For other sports in the area, St Cloud is about an hour from Minneapolis, so a visit to the MLB Twins , MLS Minnesota United FC , or the MiLB St Paul Saints are options. The closest Northwoods League team is the Willmar Stingers , 60 miles to the southwest. Fans 3 Most fans are local families or groups out for an enjoyable evening. Fans of the St Cloud Rox averaged just over 1,500 fans per game in 2022, making it 75% full on most evenings. Most are there to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the game on the field. Access 3 If you have a vehicle, getting to the ballpark is relatively easy. It is located in the Municipal Athletic Complex off State Route 15, about three miles northwest of downtown. St Cloud does have buses that go to Joe Faber Field, but the buses don’t run late enough to take fans back after the game so that’s not an option. The closest commercial airport is Minneapolis/St Paul (MSP), about a one and a half hour’s drive. Once getting to the ballpark, plenty of parking is in the lot surrounding the MAC ice arena building. If you get there early, some spots are available right in front of the only stadium entrance. Have no worries about your car being dinged with a foul ball as the parking is too far for that to happen. Gates open an hour before the first pitch. The team has no rules on what type of bags are allowed in. Fans walk into a lobby that contains the team store, the concessions, and the restrooms. And then walk either left or right down hallways to get to the stadium and field. The hallways show the many players from St Cloud who have been drafted by MLB. Joe Faber Field Hallway MLB Drafted St Cloud Players, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Traffic is a mess getting out after the game. Wait twenty minutes for the parking lot to empty. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are comparable to other Northwoods League venues. General admission (bleachers on the first base side in the sun are $10 and reserved seats are $12. Tickets for the third base party deck, which includes all you eat and drink (soda), are $30. Season tickets are available, as are 7-day game plans. Food prices are similar to other parks in the league and parking is free of charge. Extras 3 Several additional items are worth noting when visiting Joe Faber Field. First, the organization features an elaborate and enjoyable fireworks presentation after all Friday home games. Next, the Rox Report , a game day program, is handed out before each game. It contains rosters for both the Rox and the visiting team as well as player stats, the team schedule, and Northwood League standings. Extremely well done. Finally, be sure to visit the Veterans Plaza outside the entrance which showcases plaques that honor men and women veterans from Minnesota who served in wars and conflicts from the Spanish-American War to recent times. Final Thoughts Joe Faber Field and the St Cloud Rox game day staff, and the baseball team do an adequate job at providing an entertaining evening out. With the beautiful setting and providing important play of game information, all they need to do is turn the music volume down to make it an even better game day experience.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Villanova Stadium 185 Ithan Ave Philadelphia, PA 19010 Villanova Wildcats website Villanova Stadium website Year Opened: 1927 Capacity: 12,500 Football on The Main Line Although Villanova is most known for its basketball program which is one of the top teams in the country, the school also has a football program that is one of the elite schools in Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Since football was reinstated in 1985, the Wildcats have won seven conference titles and made the playoffs 14 times, including a national championship in 2009. The Wildcats call Villanova Stadium home. Located on campus in Villanova, PA adjacent to Finneran Pavilion, this stadium was built in 1927 and has undergone several updates since then. Food & Beverage 3 There are concession stands at both ends of the stadium serving food from local favorite Chickies & Pete’s. The menu is limited but high-quality. Boneless wings are $12 (with buffalo sauce absurdly being $2 extra) and Chickies & Pete’s signature crab fries cost $12. Despite the name, these fries contain no actual crab, but are topped with crab seasoning and served with cheese sauce. The portion is large, and if you want to share or just really like the sauce, you can get an extra thing of cheese sauce for $2. Hot dogs are $7, popcorn is $5, candy is $4, pretzels are $4 (plus an extra $2 to get the cheese sauce with it), and soft drinks and water are $5. While the prices are a bit high, they’re better quality than you get at most stadiums. Still, it is absolutely ridiculous that you have to pay extra to get sauce with your wings. Atmosphere 3 Villanova Stadium is an old stadium and does not have a layout to befit a top FCS program. Walking inside the stadium, you will walk down a narrow passageway which will put you right at the bleachers. Seating is general admission, although the seats closest to midfield are limited to season ticket holders and other VIPs. Some seats on the north side of the stadium are reserved for students and the band. Your ticket should explain where you are allowed to sit. All seats except for a few small VIP areas are uncomfortable metal bleachers without backs. The field is surrounded by a track, which means the stands are set further back than they otherwise would be and creates weird sightlines. There is a small scoreboard behind one end zone and a larger video board behind the other. The Wildcats have a small marching band, cheerleaders, and a costumed wildcat mascot. During breaks in the action, there will often be contests going on, although they do not happen on the field but in an area behind the end zone. Villanova has a loud, imposing student section that takes up almost a quarter of the stadium which significantly adds to the atmosphere here but it is still a pretty basic stadium. Neighborhood 4 Villanova Stadium is located on Lancaster Avenue on the Villanova campus in suburban Philadelphia. There are a few options along that street within walking distance or a short drive away depending on your tolerance for walking. The Refectory is a popular restaurant within easy walking distance, Campus Corner is a popular pizza place with local students, and there are numerous other options a short drive away including Minella’s Diner. There is really no need to deal with traffic and city parking to head into Philadelphia. Fans 4 Villanova typically averages about 8,000 fans a game although the attendance can range from about half of that to over 12,000 depending on the usual factors. The fans who do show up are passionate, loyal, and knowledgeable about their team. This stadium can get loud at big moments in the game. The student section is especially boisterous. They will stand, cheer, and shout throughout the game and will often sway in unison or wave their towels. They make the stadium an imposing place for visiting teams to play. Although Villanova Stadium will rarely sell out, the crowds here usually are pretty good and help create an electric atmosphere. Villanova Wildcats Student Section, Photo by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Access 2 Villanova Stadium is located just off of I-476. Parking is available at an hourly rate in the I-1 garage across the street from the stadium. Take a ticket as you come in and pay as you leave. If paying with cash, you will need to pay at the station, if paying by credit card, pay the attendant as you go. When arriving, exit the garage on the second level and cross the street to the stadium. Entering the stadium can take a while, especially as game time approaches, so make sure to leave yourself plenty of time if you want to see the kickoff. Getting around the stadium involves walking through some narrow pathways and can be tricky, especially if there is large attendance. Bathrooms are located under the bleachers by the entrance and are fairly small, so this could be a problem if it gets crowded. Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for youth (ages 3-12). Kids two and under get in free, as do Villanova students. As mentioned above, certain sections are excluded from general admission and your ticket will tell you where you can sit. Concessions are a bit pricey but high-quality for the most part. However, as noted in the food section, it is ridiculous that you have to pay extra to get sauce with your boneless wings. Extras 2 There are free programs available in a box by the entrance. A second star for the Villanova student section, which adds tremendously to the experience here. Final Thoughts Villanova is definitely a basketball school first and foremost. However, their football team has enjoyed considerable success as well and has a loyal fan base and passionate student section. Unfortunately, they do not have a stadium that is befitting of such a strong program. Villanova Stadium is almost 100 years old and while it has undergone some renovations, it is showing its age. That being said, a trip here can still be enjoyable for college football fans in the area.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Ben Cohen Field 2083 Lawrenceville Rd Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 Rider Broncs website Ben Cohen Field website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: N/A Cohen To Rider Soccer Located towards the back of the Rider University campus in Lawrence Township, New Jersey, Ben Cohen Field is home to the Broncs’ men’s and women’s soccer and field hockey teams. The turf field opened in 2010 and is named after Rider graduate Benjamin Cohen, whose parents David and Rhonda donated to build the field. This review will focus on Rider women’s soccer. The experience may be similar for other sports played at the field. Food & Beverage 1 There is a tent located to the left of the bleachers where food and drink is available for purchase. The only meal option is Jersey Mike’s sandwiches for $6. Various snacks such as candy and chips as well as soda, water, and Powerade, are available for $2 each. Fans may also bring their own food and drink into the stadium. Atmosphere 2 Ben Cohen Field has a pretty basic atmosphere, with a few sets of bleachers on one side of the field near the parking lot that fans can sit in. These bleachers have no aisle so fans need to climb over the seats to get to higher rows. Everything is up very close to the action and provides an excellent view. A small scoreboard is located in the near right corner, which shows the score and other basic information. There really is not much going on here other than the game itself. If you come here, you come to watch a soccer game but that’s about it. Some people will like that, others won’t. Neighborhood 3 As Ben Cohen Field is located towards the back of the Rider campus, there is not much else to do in the immediate vicinity. However, if you head back to the main road, you will find several places to eat, hang out, and more. Varsity Pizza is a short drive away and sells great pizza by the slice or as whole pies. The Tastee Sub Shop also seems popular. If you drive about ten minutes into Trenton, you will find many more options as well. Fans 3 Rider typically draws a couple hundred fans a game for women’s soccer, and while this may not seem like a lot, remember how small the bleachers are. It can get pretty full here. The fans are a mix of friends and family of the players, Rider students, and a few locals who just want to cheer on the Broncs in any sport. The crowd makes its presence known and can get loud at big moments in the game, but there are other times when it is pretty quiet and all you can hear is the action on the field and the occasional side conversation between fans. While students do attend in decent numbers, they tend to hang out with their friends rather than sit in any organized section. Access 3 Ben Cohen Field and the Rider University campus are accessible via I-295 (formerly I-95 until a few years ago when the designation changed to resolve the infamous gap in the latter.) There are signs directing you to the field once you get on campus if you do not have a GPS. There is a spacious lot in between Ben Cohen Field and the Broncs’ baseball field that fans can park in. There are no real restrooms on site but there are a few port-a-potties. Getting up the bleachers can be complex as noted above, since there is no aisle so you basically have to climb over the seats. Return on Investment 4 Admission to Broncs’ soccer games is free. However, there is not enough here to earn the top score. Note that admission policies may vary for MAAC and NCAA Tournament events. Extras 1 Look for the banners honoring Rider’s conference championships in women’s soccer and the other sports that are played here. Final Thoughts There is no hiding the fact that Ben Cohen Field is small and doesn’t have the capacity of many other college soccer venues, yet alone soccer venues at a higher level. However, the stadium seems to the right size for the crowds that show up as the bleachers will be fairly full for a typical Broncs home game. While college soccer isn’t the most popular sport at most schools, a trip to Ben Cohen Field can still be enjoyable for those who want to check it out.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.71 Shepherd Soccer Complex 675 University Dr Shepherdstown, WV 25443 Shephard Rams website Shepherd Soccer Complex website Opened: 2013 Capacity: N/A Rams Soccer in Shepherdstown Shepherd University is a small college located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia in the eastern panhandle of the state (This is not a typo. Look at a map.) Athletic teams are known as the Rams and compete in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) at Division II NCAA level. Since 2013, the Rams’ soccer teams have called the Shepherd Soccer Complex home. The field is located in the northwest corner of campus and is adjacent to a practice field. Food & Beverage 0 There is no concession stand at the Shepherd Soccer Complex. Fans are free to bring in their food and drink, except alcohol. On hot days early in the season, you will want to bring your water if nothing else. Atmosphere 2 The Shepherd Soccer Complex has an extremely basic layout. There are two sets of bleachers on one side of the field, one on either side of the small press box. Many fans also bring their chairs and place them down right next to the field, providing an up-close view of the action. Other than the occasional PA announcement, there is not a lot going on here. Even then, the PA announcer when Stadium Journey visited did not seem to know who Shepherd was playing, referring to their opponent by multiple incorrect names. Neighborhood 2 Shepherdstown is a friendly town but is not a particularly large one. There are a few restaurants and such in the immediate vicinity, but ultimately this is a sleepy small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains with not much to do. That being said, there is a lot of natural beauty in the area. Despite the popular John Denver song, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah River are mainly associated with Virginia, not West Virginia, but Jefferson County, where Shepherdstown is located, is the one place in the state you can experience them. Civil War buffs can also take a short drive across the Potomac River to visit the historic battlefield at Antietam, Maryland. Fans 3 Shepherd only averages about a hundred fans per game, and while that may not seem like a lot, remember that this is a very small stadium. The bleachers will be mostly filled with many more fans lining the field in their chairs. Most of the fans are friends or family of the players but some are just fans of Shepherd athletics, plus a few Shepherd students from time to time. They tend to be knowledgeable about the team and it can get fairly loud here at times. However, the unfortunate reality is that college soccer is just not a big deal for fans at most schools, and Shepherd is no exception. Access 3 Shepherdstown can be tough to access and will require at least some travel on local roads. State Route 9 and U.S. Route 340 can get you close, but then you will have to do some driving on back roads to get to campus. Once you enter the university grounds, the soccer complex is in the back corner close to some on-campus apartments and the tennis courts. You will park in an unpaved gravel lot. In the highly unlikely event that fills up, or if you want to park on the pavement and don’t mind walking a bit, parking is available elsewhere on campus as well. Just make sure to obey all posted signs, particularly if attending a weekday game when many lots are restricted. Restrooms are available in a small structure across the street from the parking lot, about a two to three-minute walk from the bleachers. Return on Investment 2 Tickets are $5 for adults, with children in eighth grade and younger getting in for free. This is a bit disappointing as most college soccer at this level, and even many Division I games, are free for all fans. Considering how basic the stadium is, there is not a whole lot of value here. That being said, $5 isn’t going to break the bank for anyone. Extras 0 There are no real extras here. There was a bin on the side of the press box that said it held programs, but it did not. Perhaps it does at some games. Final Thoughts Even at a Division, I level, college soccer isn’t nearly as big a deal as other college sports like football and basketball, at least at most schools. Once you get down to the Division II level where Shepherd plays, there are even fewer people interested in it. That being said, there isn’t much other high-level soccer around here, so if you’re in Shepherdstown, you might as well check out a Shepherd soccer game. That being said, there is no reason for the school to charge $5 for admission here.