Created by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey The Continental Football League (CoFL) is poised for a resurgence in Summer 2026, bringing back a unique brand of professional football that caters to smaller markets across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Originally launched in August 1965 (history highlights below), the CoFL made waves by featuring notable Hall of Famers like Bill Walsh, Steve Van Buren, and Doak Walker during its five-season run before folding in 1969. With a fresh structure and innovative approach, the league aims to capture the hearts of fans once again. 2026 CoFL Structure The upcoming iteration of the CoFL will emphasize community and localized interest. Mike Kelly has been appointed as the league commissioner, and operations will be based in Wheeling, West Virginia. The league plans to adopt a business model akin to minor league baseball and hockey, ensuring accessibility for fans and communities. The renewed CoFL will feature eight teams divided into two divisions: North Division: Ohio Valley Ironmen, *Michigan Arrows, Cincinnati Dukes, and Indianapolis Capitols South Division: Texas Syndicate, San Antonio Toros, Tall City Black Gold, and a fourth team to be announced The playoff structure will see the top two teams from each division compete for the championship, with regular-season matchups being North vs. North and South vs. South, ensuring more focused regional competition. Courtesy of the COFL Innovative Gameplay Rules One of the most exciting features of the revamped CoFL is its hybrid rule system. For the first three quarters, the league will follow NFL rules, while the fourth quarter will introduce the innovative "Continental Shift." This unique adjustment will incorporate modified CFL rules, adapted to American football fields, allowing for a dynamic playstyle that reflects both traditions. This shift not only enhances game excitement but also offers CFL scouts a platform to evaluate players in a familiar context. Rising Talent and Coaching Staff With rosters starting to take shape, anticipation is growing for the CoFL. The league has made significant strides in recruiting notable coaches, with figures like Stan Bedwell, Raheem Blackshear, Jerry Glanville, and Steve Kazor leading the charge. Their involvement not only elevates the league’s credibility but also entices fans eager for competitive play. Teams are expected to target players with experience from the NFL, CFL, UFL, and overseas outdoor leagues to build strong rosters. A Community Connection The CoFL is uniquely positioned to offer fans not only affordable, competitive football but also the rare opportunity to own a professional sports team. With initiatives like fan ownership already being deployed through its flagship team, the Ohio Valley Ironmen, the league demonstrates its commitment to fostering strong community ties. By enabling fans to invest in their teams, the CoFL acknowledges that success in professional sports often hinges on community support and engagement. History of the Continental Football League in the 1960s The Continental Football League (CoFL) was established in 1965 as a response to the growing popularity of professional football in the United States, aiming to provide a competitive alternative to the NFL. The league was initially formed by several teams from minor leagues and independent organizations. By the end of the 1960s, the Continental Football League struggled with financial sustainability and competition, leading to its eventual dissolution. However, it laid the groundwork for the eventual emergence of other leagues and the broader landscape of professional football in the U.S. What’s Old is New Again Whether you're a longtime football aficionado or a newcomer excited about alternative leagues, the return of the Continental Football League represents a thrilling chapter in the evolution of professional sports. The league combines innovative gameplay, notable talent, and community involvement to create a truly inclusive experience. *Editor's Note: The Norfolk Neptunes will replace the Michigan Arrows as a travel team

The Miracle Ice Arena is hoping that a miracle will get an ice arena for central Delaware. The initiative aims to construct a new ice rink. This project seeks to replace the Centre Ice Rink, which was closed by the Delaware State Fair in May 2025. The Centre Ice Rink was the former home of the Delaware Thunder of the Federal Prospects Hockey League and was located in Harrington, DE, on the grounds of the fair. On June 19, 2023, the Delaware Thunder announced they would be electing to go dormant for the 2023 to 2024 season, while plans for a new arena in Dover could be finalized. As of this writing, that dormancy is ongoing. The Miracle Ice project is making progress, according to the volunteer group behind the project. A total of $5 million is the bare minimum needed to start construction. The volunteers state that once that goal is met, construction of the arena is predicted to take between 12 and 18 months to complete. However, the effort to bring an ice venue back to the region faces complications from competing plans. The Dover Civic Arena Group, which formed shortly after the Thunder lost its lease, expressed concerns over a separate public proposal backed by State Senator Dave Lawson. The private group claims they have completed a feasibility study for an arena that would cost between $6 million and $8 million to build. Their proposed facility would feature a restaurant, pub, fitness center, and pro shop, while also accommodating professional usage to potentially bring back the Thunder or another pro hockey team. Meanwhile, Senator Lawson has been exploring state funding options for another independent public project. Representatives from the private Dover Civic Arena Group warn that building separate venues would not be cost-effective, arguing that there is currently not enough demand in Kent and Sussex County to support multiple ice facilities. As these competing plans continue through the funding and development stages, local skaters are facing significant commutes. With the Centre Ice Rink permanently closed, the next closest ice rinks for anyone in the Southern Delaware community are the University of Delaware rinks located an hour away north in Newark, or facilities even further away in Maryland.

Photos by Meg Minard , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Sloan Park 2330 W Rio Salado Pkwy Mesa, AZ 85201 Map It! ACL Cubs website Sloan Park website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 15,000 Baby Cubs Before minor league (the common single-A, double-A, triple-A leagues), there’s the rookie league, called a complex league. MLB operates two complex leagues: the Florida Complex League (FCL) in Florida and the Arizona Complex League (ACL) in Arizona. MLB uses the leagues as its lowest‑level, development‑first proving ground. It's a controlled environment where newly drafted players and recent international signees can train, be evaluated, and transitioned into professional baseball. The Chicago Cubs use Sloan Park for their player development and Complex League games. Sloan Park is mostly known as the spring training facility for the Cubs and the Mesa Solar Sox (Arizona Fall League). Live concerts, cultural festivities, and college and high school tournaments have also been hosted at the park. Before Sloan Park, the Chicago Cubs used Fitch Park for rookie ball, extended spring training, and minor league workouts. When Sloan Park opened in 2014, the Cubs shifted all rookie level games to the new complex. The Complex League isn’t here for the fans; it’s for player development. Food & Beverage 0 While Sloan Park offers plenty of concessions during spring training, none of the stands are open during a Complex League game, and rightfully so. Fans are encouraged to bring their own food and drink (no alcohol). We recommend bringing several bottles of water, as it gets hot during the season. Atmosphere 2 When attending an ACL game, some fans like the games being played in the ball team’s spring training back fields as they are closer to the game action, to the players and scouts, it’s more intimate, and it doesn’t feel as ‘empty.’ This isn’t the case for the ACL Cubs, as most games are played in the main stadium, which feels cavernous with fewer than 50 people scattered across a 10,800‑seat venue. What the ballpark does offer is comfort. The seats are the classic green fold‑down stadium chairs rather than bleachers, and most of them sit in the shade. The section behind home plate on the concourse even catches a bit of a breeze, albeit a warm breeze. It’s also easy to wander to different seating areas throughout the game for a different perspective. The video board only displays the line score, not any video graphics. The only music played comes from the ACL Cubs dugout, played pregame and between innings. I, personally, find that refreshing. Sloan Park Video Board for an ACL Cubs Game, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Similar to all ACL matchups, the starting line-up and rosters are not available at the stadium. For the ACL Cubs 2026 roster, check here. Again, the focus isn’t the fan experience; it’s preparing players for the next level. Neighborhood 4 About a mile northeast of Sloan Park is the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center. This center includes several places to eat, a movie theater, and many stores, including a Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Restaurants include Cracker Barrel, Famous Dave’s BBQ, Henhouse Café (good for breakfast), Copper State Taphouse, and plenty more. A little over a mile west of Sloan Park (make a right on Rio Salado Parkway out of the ballpark) is the Tempe Marketplace, an even larger shopping area. It contains 26 restaurants/places to eat, including the Thirsty Lion and King's Fish House, a multitude of shops, and another movie theater. If shopping is your thing, this might be the place to go. One of Stadium Journey’s favorites for pre or post-game is Hundred Mile Brewery, a little over three miles from the park. For places to stay near the ballpark, the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West and a Courtyard by Marriott are just beyond right field. The Hyatt Place Phoenix/Mesa is adjacent to the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center (about 1.2 miles from the ballpark). A Hilton Garden Inn and a Homewood Suites are a mile the other way (west) of the ballpark. Adjacent to the ballpark is Riverview Park, which offers a fishing lake, playground, picnic area, and water fountains to enjoy pre or post-game. For fans looking to explore more baseball in the area, check out some of the other East Valley Complex League Stadiums, including Papago Park (Giants), Fitch Park (Athletics), and the others at Salt River Fields and Tempe. Or visit Chase Field for an MLB Arizona Diamondbacks game or the Mortgage Matchup Center for a WNBA Phoenix Mercury game. Fans 1 In a crowd of maybe 20 - 30 spectators, the majority are scouts. Some backup players spend the game charting pitches and logging data with a radar gun. A few local baseball fans trickle in, but that’s about the extent of it; this is standard for the Arizona Complex League. The most enthusiastic cheering comes from the dugouts. Small Crowds at an ACL Cubs Game, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Access 4 If flying in for an ACL Cubs game, the closest airport (about seven miles from Sloan Park) is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Public transportation is somewhat available – from the airport, it’s a combination of using the Valley Metro light rail, transferring to a bus, and taking a short walk. Since under 50 individuals attend a game, traffic access is not the nightmare it is for a Cubs spring training game. Plenty of parking is available for no charge. Only the home plate gate is open for Complex League games. Bags aren’t checked at entry. Restrooms on the first base side concourse are open for the ACL games. Return on Investment 5 Every ACL game is completely free. You just show up; your only costs are transportation and any food or beverages you decide to bring. Parking is free, admission is free, and the experience is pure baseball. For a relaxed afternoon or evening at the park, that’s a pretty great deal. Extras 0 You won’t find any extras worth calling out during an ACL Cubs game; it’s a simple, baseball‑only experience. Final Thoughts A visit to an ACL matchup at Sloan Park offers an intimate, no‑frills way to watch future Cubs prospects in action.

Plans for a new multi-purpose arena to house the 76ers, Flyers, and a potential WNBA team are slated for the southeast corner of Broad Street and Pattison Avenue in South Philadelphia. The project, which would replace the current Xfinity Live! The site on the former Spectrum footprint is part of a larger $2.5 billion makeover for the sports complex, though no construction timeline has been released. The new South Philadelphia arena project is a collaboration between Comcast Spectacor and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). For decades, the sports complex in South Philadelphia has been a cathedral of competition, but the landscape is about to undergo its most significant transformation since the opening of the Xfinity Mobile Arena. A new landmark is on the horizon—and it’s bringing a rare spirit of collaboration to the "City of Brotherly Love." A Unified Home for Three Teams In a move that surprised many fans in early 2025, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Flyers pivoted from separate paths to a shared vision. Abandoning plans for a Center City venue, the Sixers have partnered with the Flyers to build the New South Philadelphia Arena, which will also serve as the home court for a new WNBA expansion team. This powerhouse trio will anchor a facility designed to be the most technologically advanced and fan-focused venue in the world. Building the Future The heavy hitters of arena construction, Turner Construction and AECOM Hunt, are leading the project. With a combined portfolio that includes SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, they are bringing 50 years of expertise to ensure the new arena sets a global standard. The design aims to integrate seamlessly into a broader entertainment district, creating a year-round destination that extends far beyond the final buzzer. While the project faced early hurdles and community concerns, the Philadelphia City Council’s approval in December 2024 paved the way for this 2030 opening. Design Vision and Local Expertise The architectural identity of the new arena is being shaped by Populous, the global firm behind iconic venues like the Las Vegas Sphere and London’s O2 Arena. In collaboration with Moody Nolan, the nation’s largest Black-owned architecture firm, the design team aims to create a world-class facility that is "authentically Philly". This vision is supported by the PACT+ joint venture, which integrates national construction giants with prominent local firms such as Perryman Construction, Hunter Roberts Construction Group, and Camfred Construction. This partnership ensures that the project not only meets global standards for technology and fan experience but also provides significant employment and contracting opportunities for the Philadelphia workforce. A Historic Commitment to Community Beyond the stadium's walls, the project is anchored by a record-breaking $50 million Community Benefits Agreement (CBA), the largest ever for a Philadelphia sports venue. This legally binding agreement is designed to mitigate neighborhood disruptions and fuel local growth, with funds earmarked for small business grants, street lighting, and a new neighborhood police substation. A significant portion of the investment will also focus on public transit, including $3 million to subsidize SEPTA and PATCO rides, aiming to ease traffic and encourage sustainable fan travel. While the proposal initially faced pushback, particularly from the Chinatown community concerned about gentrification, the city's approval in late 2024 has shifted the focus toward a "city-led" effort to ensure these historic investments translate into long-term vitality for the entire district. What to Watch For Cutting-Edge Amenities: Expect a "next-era" fan experience with amenities designed for athletes and performers alike. A Growing District: The arena will sit alongside the homes of the Eagles and Phillies, solidifying South Philly as a premier sports destination. Economic Impact: Beyond the games, the project focuses on community partnerships, including initiatives to support local small businesses. As the Xfinity Mobile Arena prepares for its eventual replacement, Philadelphia fans have a decade of anticipation ahead for a venue that promises to redefine the "Stadium Journey" in one of America's greatest sports towns.

Rendering Courtesy of Michigan State University Spartan Stadium, the iconic home of Michigan State football since its opening in 1923, is poised for the most ambitious renovation in its century‑long history. Athletic Director J. Batt told the Detroit Economic Club on May 5 that, if fundraising and approvals stay on schedule, the stadium will be “freshly renovated” by fall 2029. The overhaul, estimated at $500 million, will focus on the aging east side, upgrade fan amenities, and explore new revenue streams such as naming rights, hotels, and premium seating. Why the Upgrade is Needed Aging Infrastructure – After nearly 100 years, structural components on the east side show significant wear. Attendance Challenges – The Spartans have posted four consecutive losing seasons, leaving the 74,866‑seat venue partially empty late in the fall. Competitive Landscape – Peer institutions such as Penn State and Ohio State are continuously modernizing to attract recruits and donors. “It's not more seats, it’s better seats,” Batt emphasized, highlighting a shift toward premium experiences that can command higher ticket prices and corporate partnerships. Funding and Timeline December 2023: Greg and Dawn Williams pledged $401 million, with $290 million earmarked for the university’s broader FOR SPARTA $1 billion capital campaign. Projected Cost: Roughly $500 million for the stadium portion, including demolition, structural upgrades, and new hospitality spaces. Construction Window: Groundbreaking slated for fall 2027; completion targeted for summer 2029. Season Continuity: The Spartans will continue to play at Spartan Stadium during construction, employing temporary seating and phased work similar to Penn State's recent stadium remodel. Planned Features: Premium Seating - New club level suites, loge boxes, and reconfigured general‑admission sections with wider seats and better sightlines. Technology Upgrades - Enhanced Wi‑Fi, LED lighting, and an expanded high‑definition video board (the current board was installed before the 2022 season). Hospitality & Entertainment - Up to four new restaurants, a hotel adjacent to the stadium, and expanded concessions featuring local cuisine. Student Housing - New on‑campus residences near the stadium to boost student engagement on game days. Naming Rights - Exploration of a stadium naming partner, a move that could add tens of millions in long‑term revenue. IM West Demolition - The aging IM West building will be removed, freeing a sizable parcel for the new mixed‑use development. Beyond Football: A Campus Magnet University President Kevin Guskiewicz framed the project as more than a sports renovation. “We want to create something really special, a magnet where people want to just come to campus,” he said, noting that the current Kellogg Center looks “tired.” The envisioned campus hub would integrate dining, lodging, and entertainment, extending revenue generation well beyond the football season. Photo courtesy of Michigan State University athletics Market Context College athletics revenue has surged in the past decade, driven by media rights, donor gifts, and commercial partnerships. According to the NCAA’s 2023 revenue report, the top 25 football programs collectively generated over $10 billion in total revenue, with stadium naming deals accounting for an average of $25 million to $40 million annually. Michigan State’s pursuit of naming rights aligns with this trend and could help offset construction costs while enhancing brand visibility. Challenges Ahead Fundraising Gap – Even with the Williams donation, an additional $100 million, and $150 million will be needed to fund the stadium portion fully. Board Approval – The university’s Board of Trustees must sign off on the master plan, demolition of IM West, and any naming‑rights agreement. Construction Logistics – Phasing work to avoid disrupting home games will require meticulous scheduling and may limit certain upgrades in 2028. Batt remains confident: “We’re open for business,” he said, emphasizing a careful vetting process for any corporate partner to preserve the “hallowed ground” of Spartan Stadium. What It Means for Fans Short‑Term: Expect limited seating adjustments during the 2028 season as construction ramps up. Long‑Term: A modernized arena with premium lounges, improved connectivity, and an on-site hotel that could host tailgate parties, concerts, and other events year‑round. Spartan Stadium’s transformation promises not only to revitalize a historic venue but also to position Michigan State as a leader in the evolving economics of college sports. If the project stays on track, fans will experience a markedly upgraded game‑day atmosphere by the 2029 fall season, while the university taps new revenue streams to sustain its athletics and academic missions for decades to come.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 CarMax Park 3001 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230 Richmond Flying Squirrels website Car Max Park website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: 10,000 Flying Squirrels are Taking It to the ‘Max As the 2026 baseball season gets underway, minor-league baseball in Richmond has a new home for the first time in 40 years. The Flying Squirrels have moved into the brand new $110 million CarMax Park, just across the street from their former home at the Diamond. The naming rights to the new park belong to the auto group with its corporate headquarters in Virginia’s capital city. The new stadium includes many firsts for Richmond baseball. CarMax Park features a 360-degree concourse, which also means it has seating beyond the outfield walls for the first time in the team’s existence. Catching a home run ball has finally become a reality. The seating bowl is also much closer to the field than at the Diamond, with the Dugout Suites at field level. The field dimensions are RF 325, CF 400, and LF 325. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions program at CarMax Park offers a much more diverse set of food choices than was available at the Diamond. There are four main concession stands along the concourse, with several more specialized stands mixed in between. In addition, there are several Grab N’ Go self-service stands, which can be a big timesaver. The main concession stands are known as the Fan Favorite stands. They feature Hot Chicken sandwiches ($12), fried chicken ($12), chicken tenders ($11), hot dogs ($4.50), ballpark nachos ($5.50), the team’s unique Squirrely fries ($5), cracker jacks ($4.50), pretzels ($6.75), peanuts ($4), and candy ($5.25). Other stands are more food-type specific. They include Squirrelly Bird (chicken), Capitol BBQ (barbeque), RVA Burger (hamburgers), Cho’s (nachos), and the 804 Mart (grab-and-go convenience store food). The quality of the food at these stands is above average for a minor league baseball park. CarMax Park features Pepsi brand sodas at its concession stands. Adult beverages are available at each concession stand. There is a minimum of eight taps per stand. Domestic beers are $8.75, with premium brands available for $10.75. There is also a beer garden located in the left field area of the stands There are TV monitors at each stand, so you will not miss any of the game action. Atmosphere 4 CarMax Park offers a very welcoming atmosphere, compared to the very cold and outdated atmosphere found at the Diamond. The stadium colors feature the red and blue team colors of the Flying Squirrels. There is a large sign featuring the CarMax Park sign, which is a nice background for selfies. The CarMax Park logo is embossed on the seats along the aisles throughout the park. CarMax Park has one of the largest videoboards in minor league baseball (3,648 square feet) in right-center field. It does a great job keeping fans updated on important plays on the field, as well as upcoming events at the ballpark. There are two Squirrel’s Nest team stores at CarMax Park, with one on the main concourse along the first baseline and a second location in center field. This cuts down dramatically on the lines to get into the store, which is a major improvement over the lone store at the Diamond. One of the popular new features of the new park is the use of Public Art. This includes a mural on the back of the Batter’s Eye in center field featuring baseball card-style images of some of the many great stars that played for the Richmond franchise over the years. Another installation is a “Flying Squirrels are Richmond, VA” wall in the Landing area that is a very popular backdrop for selfies. The children’s area along the outfield concourse features cutouts of team mascots Nutsy and Nutasha. Neighborhood 3 CarMax Park is in the Scott’s Addition Historic District neighborhood in northeast Richmond. The immediate area surrounding CarMax Park has been rechristened as the Diamond District. The City of Richmond’s Development Authority is partnering with the Flying Squirrels to create a vibrant live/work/play community surrounding the ballpark. CarMax Park will host numerous community-wide events outside of baseball as a part of this agreement. Apartments, affordable housing, restaurants, retail outlets, and public green spaces are all in the long-range plans for the Diamond District. The immediate area surrounding the stadium is somewhat of a work in progress, with construction equipment on site and some building materials still present. There are several restaurants within a few blocks of CarMax Park. These include ZZQ of Texas Craft BBQ, Remedy Burger, and the Veil Brewing Company. The Park RVA Entertainment complex is also adjacent to the ballpark. The area is also a hotbed for craft breweries. These include the Vasen Brewing Company, Ardent Craft Ales, and The Veil Brewing Company. Fans 4 Professional baseball has a long history in the Richmond area, dating back to 1884. The only break in this history came in the two years in between the Richmond Braves' departure to Gwinnett in 2008 and the relocation of the Connecticut Defenders franchise to Richmond in 2010 to become the Flying Squirrels. As a result of this long history and the traumatic loss of the Braves, Richmond fans are determined to never let that happen again. The Richmond Squirrels have led the Eastern League in average attendance for nine of the last fifteen seasons, and CarMax Park’s increased capacity seems certain to keep that streak intact. The first month has seen the ballpark sell out every home game so far, as interest in checking out the new facility is widespread throughout the Commonwealth. Access 3 The new home of the Flying Squirrels offers easy access from both I-95 and I-64. From I-95: Take exit 78 (Boulevard/Route 161), and the ballpark is two blocks south. Follow the signage to your appropriate parking lot. From I-64: I-64 merges with I-95 just north of the ballpark. Exit onto I-95 south and follow the directions above. CarMax Park is still using the parking lots from The Diamond, as the old ballpark is just across the street from the new park. General parking is available in the Red, Yellow, Green, and Pink lots, with the Black and Gold lots reserved for ADA parking only. Rideshares will pick up and deliver fans at the Red lot. Greater Richmond Transit (GRC) already offers numerous bus stops near the ballpark. Fans will be happy to see that the main entry gate into the park has only five steps, as opposed to the thirty steps they had to climb at the Diamond. There are ramps available at CarMax Park for ADA entry. Ballpark gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Return on Investment 4 CarMax Park offers a wide variety of seating plans at several price points. The cheapest seats in the ballpark are on the berm in the outfield at $10.00. Knothole/Youth seating is bleacher-style seating on either side of the Batter’s Eye in the outfield at $12. The most expensive seats are considered “Prime” seats, which means that they are within the three rows closest to the field. Baseline/Dugout Prime seats are $24, while Home Plate Prime seats are $30. The Yard Club area features Adirondack seats in the outfield and is priced at $60 per pair. Bullpen rail seats (overlooking the bullpens in the outfield) are $26. All other seating is $18-20, depending on which part of the field they overlook. Concession prices for the ballpark basics (drinks, hot dogs, candy) are very reasonable. The more specialized menu items come at a premium cost. Parking in the stadium lots is $10 per car. Extras 5 The Flying Squirrels are the AA affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. This means CarMax Park is the greatest distance from its parent club’s home park (Oracle Park) at 2,872 miles. Players will sign autographs up to 30 minutes before the first pitch. Fans should line up along the seats closest to the first baseline. The Bon Secours Base Camp is a children’s play area located in the area beyond the center field wall of the ballpark. One of the more entertaining between-innings contests at the Flying Squirrells games is the Mixed Nuts Race. It features competitors with names like the Almond Brothers, Johnny Cashew, Pablo Pistachio, and P. Nutt. CarMax Park offers several group seating areas with dining options in each area of the ballpark. The Patio is a picnic-style area along the third baseline. The Landing is in the left field corner and comes with a buffet. The Backstop is a covered indoor seating area above the concourse that comes with meal service. The City View Suites offer a wonderful overlook of the ballpark, as well as a view of the downtown Richmond skyline in the distance. The Power Alley Porch is in the outfield area and offers drink rail seating with a buffet. The Flying Squirrels offer free game programs, filled with the team history, player bios, info on special promotions, and lineup cards. Final Thoughts CarMax Park is the Richmond area's first new nest for baseball in 40 years, and the Flying Squirrel fans are going nuts over it.

Photos by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Bainton Field 25 Hospital Rd Piscataway, NJ 08854 Rutgers Scarlet Knights website Bainton Field website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 1,308 Afternoon Baseball in Jersey Bainton Field/Class of 1953 Gruinger Baseball Complex serves as the home to the Rutgers University Baseball program. Originally opened in 2007, the facility received major upgrades in the fall of 2020 through the generous support of Ron and Pat Bainton. Their $1.25 million donation was the largest single contribution ever made and helped provide a modern Fieldturf playing surface and paved the way for future improvements. Before the 2026 season, the stadium completed its major renovation project with upgrades by removing the bleachers and installing a new seating structure, which features 402 chairback seats with a total capacity of 1,308. Additional fan enhancements include a high-quality sound system, ADA accessible ramps, and a brand-new scoreboard and video board, which was installed in 2023. Food & Beverage 1 The recent renovations to Bainton Field did not include the park’s concessions. There is only one concession stand at Bainton Field. It is located behind home plate. The concession stand provides fans with typical basic ballpark food. These food and beverage items are hot dogs, nachos, and pretzels with a cost of around $7. Candy, chips, and peanuts will cost between $3.50 and $5.00. Bottled water costs $5.25, and soda costs $6.25. The concession stand, although being basic, does serve alcohol. You are able to purchase beer, which costs $15 for domestic beers and $16 for premium domestic beers. Atmosphere 2 Bainton Field gives you more of a college baseball atmosphere than it may have in the past with the recent renovations. In April of 2023, Rutgers installed lights at Bainton Field, which allows the team to not have to battle with darkness and allows them to schedule games and bring a better atmosphere for home games. Game Action at Bainton Field - Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Bainton Field is located in Piscataway, New Jersey, on Rutgers’ Livingston campus across the river from New Brunswick. Piscataway and New Brunswick combine to bring out the charm of a campus and urban neighborhood with plenty of food options and hotels. If you just want a quick pregame slice, you can find them at Daniel’s Pizzeria or Biggie's Slice House. If you are looking for a good pub to have a pregame or postgame meal, there are Tavern on George or the Scarlet Pub. Some of the more convenient lodging options for those who may be staying for a weekend series near Bainton Field are the Hyatt Regency and the Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center. Fans 2 The Rutgers fan enhancements to the ballfield are great, but it doesn't seem to improve in bringing in more fans. Rutgers baseball attendance ranks among the lowest numbers in the Big Ten Conference. 247sports reports that the average attendance in 2025 for Rutgers baseball games was 351. Despite the small numbers, the fans that do show up for the program seem to be closely invested in the team. Batter Up at Bainton Field. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Getting to Bainton Field can be confusing for those who are not from the area. The ballfield sits just off the New Jersey Turnpike, about 30 miles south of Newark. Rutgers University currently has a total of three separate campuses in the local area, with Bainton Field being on the Busch campus. There is parking directly around the ballfield, or you are also able to park in the lots next to Jersey Mike’s Arena, the home of the Men's and Women's Basketball programs. All parking is free. Return on Investment 3 Admission and parking to Rutgers baseball at Bainton Field are free, as tickets are not sold for games here. The concession prices are a little high for this type of ballfield, even though it is on par with other sports venues. Overall, attending a game here can be worthwhile if you're looking for a casual outing with family or if your favorite college baseball team is the opponent. Grandstand at Bainton Field. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 Bainton Field has a list of its alumni who are in the MLB on a banner that is on one of the fences of the Rutgers bullpen. Notably, the top alum would be a local Little League World Series Champion, Todd Frasier. Todd was the Big East player of the year and an All-American in 2007 for the Scarlett Knights. He became the third Rutgers baseball player to be picked in the first Round of the Major League Baseball Draft when the Cincinnati Reds selected him as the 34th overall selection. Final Thoughts Bainton Field has received plenty of upgrades in the past few years, and it is an enjoyable place to watch a ballgame. Although it may be quiet and the ballfield may not be packed, you can never go wrong with free baseball.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Globe Life Field 734 Stadium Drive Arlington, TX 76011 Texas Rangers website Globe Life Field website Year Opened: 2020 Capacity: 40,300 Globe Life Field – Texas Rangers Globe Life Field is home to Major League Baseball’s American League Texas Rangers – the Rangers organization began in 1972 when the Washington Senators relocated to Arlington, Texas. Globe Life Field is a retractable roof stadium that opened in 2020 with a seating capacity of just over 40,000; the new ballpark is just across the street from the Rangers former home Globe Life Park, now Choctaw Stadium. Globe Life Field’s opening was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the first game being played without fans on July 24, 2020. However, although the pandemic pushed back the 2020 MLB season and cost the Rangers fan attendance in their new ballpark, there was a bright side, as Globe Life Field was selected to host the 2020 National League championship series and the 2020 World Series. Baseball Fans were allowed to attend those playoff games, and people finally got to see the Rangers new home firsthand. Globe Life Field has hosted many events – these include the National and American League Championships, the 2020 and 2023 World Series, and the MLB All-Star Game, as well as college football games and year-round concerts. Food & Beverage 5 One of the most basic food items at sporting events began in Arlington, as the Rangers were the first team to introduce nachos to fans. The same nachos company, Rico’s, has been supplying the chips to Rangers fans for decades. One of their most recent nacho offerings comes in the form of the Boomstick, a three-pound two-foot-long hot dog covered with chili, nacho cheese, jalapenos, and caramelized onions. In fact, year after year the Rangers have creative items on the menu; new this season the Rangers food service Levy introduced 13 new food items, the most popular being the 9th inning Rally Sombrero, a wearable, 26-inch-wide sombrero filled with nacho toppings, including chips, cheddar cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapeños. Globe Life Field also has local vendors such as Hurtado Barbecue, Golden Chick, Pluckers, and a Texas favorite in Whataburger. The Rangers also connect with fans looking for vegan options, who can choose from a full menu including vegan burgers, sandwiches, nachos, and chicken nuggets, all available at the Visiting Vegan stand. Concession prices are a bit high here, but fans are getting plenty of food for what they are paying. Soft drinks include Coke products, along with PowerAde and Dasani as non-carbonated options. There are also plenty of alcohol choices as well inside the ballpark, including several full-service bars and beer carts around the stadium that serve seltzer, wine, mixed drinks, and beer from both national brands and local brewing companies Deep Ellum and Karbach. Overall, there are plenty of food and beverage choices for any fan that attends a Rangers game, and you get a lot for what you are paying. Atmosphere 3 Globe Life Field has been criticized and mocked for its outside structure; it’s not an attractive ballpark from the outside, especially when you compare it to the team’s old facility across the street. However, once you are inside the ballpark it transforms into one of the better retractable roof stadiums in the country, and the glass used around the stadium lets in enough light that you don’t feel like you’re inside a warehouse. Originally fans compared this venue to the other major league ballpark in the state, Daikin Park in Houston, but Globe Life Field has a lot more character than the home of the Astros. Globe Life Field has a large videoboard suspended high above right field, which is the main source of gameday information. There are also two other large videoboards showing information during the game – one is a vertically hung auxiliary scoreboard in centerfield showing the day’s lineup, while the other is situated high above the party porch in left field. As fans enter the ballpark they can walk around the different concourses and see Rangers history throughout, including a Texas-sized clock and Ranger Hall of Famer uniforms in centerfield. There is also not a better moment leading up to first pitch than when long-time public-address announcer Chuck Morgan makes his standard announcement, as the umpires and managers wrap up their pre-game meeting – “Ladies and Gentlemen, it is Baseball Time in Texas!”. Chuck Morgan has been the voice of the Texas Rangers for the past 43 years; he is in the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, and one day Cooperstown should be calling on him to fill his place among the great baseball announcers. The Rangers game presentation is basic and simple – the team boasts the Rangers Six Shooters, the team’s spirit squad which cheers from an area in centerfield, along with mascot Rangers Captain, a palomino-style horse dressed in the team’s uniform wearing number 72, marking the first year of the Rangers organization. The staff also entertains by leading fans in singing throughout the game, including the fifth inning “Deep in the Heart of Texas” and the 7th inning stretch “Take Me out to the Ballgame”, plus bonus song “Cotton Eye Joe”. Another popular mid-inning activity is the Dot Race, which started at Arlington Stadium with Chuck Morgan stating “As a reminder, this is an exhibition. No wagering, please.” – this is now a Rangers tradition that helps set the experience here apart from what you will see anywhere else. Overall, the ballpark, Chuck Morgan, and the Rangers fans provide an above-average atmosphere compared to other ballparks around Major League Baseball. Neighborhood 3 Globe Life Field is in the center of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, just south of DFW Airport. The two large cities are both around 25 miles in opposite directions of the facility, but each has plenty of tourist attractions, lodging options, and restaurants. If you are new to the Arlington area, the neighborhood has improved over the years, and continues to become a little more attractive each year to hang out in before or after a game. The ballpark is next to Texas Live!, a place filled with various restaurants for fans to visit; the restaurants are Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint, Pudge’s Pizza owned by Rangers legend Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez, Lockhart Smokehouse, Arlington’s backyard BBQ, and Troy’s (owned by Hall of Famer Troy Aikman). There are also two hotels adjacent to the ballpark: Live by Loews and Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center. Just to the west of Globe Life Field is AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, while across the street is Choctaw Stadium. The Medal of Honor Museum and Arlington Museum of Art are also both within walking distance of the venue. There are also other places to spend time at while on your visit to Arlington – Six Flags over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark are both within a mile and a half of the ballpark, and the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is also within that 1.5-mile radius. Fans 3 Last year the Texas Rangers attendance saw a slight decline from the prior year, with an average of 29,593 fans per game, and this season is showing to be around the same. The key to seeing larger attendance is solely based on the performance of the team on the field, however – this is not just a Rangers thing but is true around baseball; fans want to see good teams. Despite the numbers, Rangers fans are loud, knowledgeable, and respond accordingly in all game situations. Globe Life Field’s roof being enclosed adds to the loudness of the fans here, but overall, the fans themselves are a pleasure to watch a ball game with. Access 3 Globe Life Field is in the heart of Arlington’s entertainment district. Arlington is in the middle of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making up the fourth-largest metropolitan population in the United States. Two airports support the DFW area, including Love Field near downtown Dallas, about twenty-one miles from Globe Life Field, for Southwest Airlines flights. However, most flights arrive at DFW International Airport, which is ten miles from the ballpark. The City of Arlington is the largest populated city in the United States that does not have public transit, so the only way to get to Globe Life Field from either airport is via rideshare or a rental car. For rideshare, the cost from either airport is about $40 one-way on average. Driving to Globe Life Field is easy, as it is located off Interstate 30. There are plenty of options for parking around the ballpark, with prices ranging from $20 to $60. Pre-paid parking is offered and is a fantastic way to minimize cost and time searching if you book ahead. Also, if you are staying in a hotel near the ballpark, many have a shuttle to the stadium. Once at the ballpark there are six entrances into Globe Life Field. The most common, the north entrance, is adjacent to Texas Live! Gates open about 2 hours before first pitch. When walking inside the ballpark, there is plenty of signage to help you navigate throughout the facility – the wide concourses provide plenty of space for fans to walk around and see the sights. Note that when buying tickets, however, the lower field-level seats are only accessible to those who have tickets in those sections. Disclaimer for fans purchasing tickets: Globe Life Field has numerous obstructions. Avoid purchasing the first 5 rows of each section as your sightline there will be impacted by the extended wire rails that have been installed in the ballpark. Return on Investment 3 Texas Rangers tickets truly depend on the night, opponent, and even specific popular promotional giveaways. Since MLB supply-and-demand flex pricing is a guessing game, the earlier you can lock in a price, the more protected you are against rising costs. For example, the Rangers website lists tickets as low as $14 and as high as $667 for one game, but on a different night, the low and high prices change to $23 and $425 – this doesn’t include service fees, which can add $5 to $15 to each ticket. For some games, it would be more economical to look at third-party sellers, as season ticket holders sell their seats for less desirable games. Despite all this, however, Major League Baseball is still the most affordable of the major league sports. The parking cost here is average compared to the rest of Major League Baseball, starting anywhere from $30 to $60 for lots around Globe Life Field. However, parking is also on a flex pricing schedule, so the more popular the game the higher the cost. Nevertheless, there is pre-sale parking available, which is a good option especially for out-of-town fans. One of the biggest downsides to this ballpark is the lack of public transportation for such a large metroplex. Globe Life Field’s concessions have the typically high costs commonly seen at sports venues. However, when the Rangers create new food items, or if you choose one of their already popular items like the Boomstick, the food and drink costs can easily go beyond your normal expectations. The days of baseball being low-cost entertainment are no longer here when it comes to Globe Life Field. However, Major League Baseball still provides the lowest cost among all the major sports. Extras 5 The obvious extra to Globe Life Field is that the ballpark has a retractable roof – although the venue is an eyesore to some looking in from the outside, the constant 72 degrees indoors keeps fans and players from enduring the Texas summer heat. Other things add to fans enjoyable time at Globe Life Field too, such as behind home plate on the main concourse there is a unique opportunity for fans to see and visit with the Texas Rangers longtime public address announcer Chuck Morgan, who welcomes baseball fans to Arlington with his announcement of “It’s Baseball Time in Texas!”. In addition, outside Chuck Morgan’s office are display cases full of Rangers memorabilia. Outside Globe Life Field there are also plaques of Texas Ranger Hall of Fame inductees on display outside the stadium's northeast entry point, adjacent to the statue of Benjie Molina and Neftali Feliz celebrating the Rangers 2010 American League Championship. There are also three bronze statues of Texas Rangers Baseball Hall of Famers Nolan Ryan, Ivan “Pudge” Rodriquez, and Adrian Beltre. Globe Life Field’s outfield wall also recognizes numbers of significance throughout Rangers history – the distance markers are the numbers worn by players that are in the Rangers Hall of Fame, namely 29 (Adrian Beltre), 34 (Nolan Ryan),10 (Michael Young), 7 (Ivan Rodriguez), and 26 (Johnny Oates). Lastly, Globe Life Field’s distance from home plate to backstop is 42 in recognition of Jackie Robinson’s retired number throughout baseball. Final Thoughts As I looked across the street at the old ballpark with bittersweet memories, I realized that this recent home of the Rangers has become more useful in the last few years since it opened. Globe Life Field, being a retractable ballpark, has provided a year-round place where DFW residents can come together. The ballpark was built for the Texas Rangers and fans as a relief from the Texas Summer heat, yet the ballpark has held numerous concerts, other sporting events, and high school graduations as well. As for baseball, Globe Life Field may not be high on baseball fans’ lists of favorite ballparks, as the ballpark doesn’t have the same charm as some of the others, but it is still a solid place to watch an MLB game, in one of the best metro areas in the US.

Photo courtesy of Craig Smith and Marc Viquez Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Greer Field at Turchin Stadium 6400 S. Claiborne Ave New Orleans, LA 70125 Tulane Green Wave website Greer Field at Turchin Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 5,000 Catch the Wave at Greer Field at Tulane Greer Field at Turchin Stadium is located at Tulane University, offering one of the nicer college baseball experiences in the country. Located in New Orleans, the home of the Green Wave, blends modern amenities with a deep-rooted baseball tradition that dates back decades on this very site. Opened in 2008 for $10.5 million, the ballpark is named in honor of Philip Greer and Robert and Lillian Turchin, preserving the legacy of the original Turchin Stadium. The current facility replaced nearly every aspect of its predecessor while maintaining a connection to the program’s history, with only the lighting system, portions of the scoreboard, and the Theresa Sofio Hitting Facility remaining from the previous structure. The ballpark is named after Robert Turchin, a WW II vet and Tulane grad, who headed a drive with his wife in 1990 to build the ballpark. The field is named after Phil Greer, chair of the board of Tulane. From 1893 to 1989, the Green Wave played baseball games at Tulane Diamond, located approximately 100 feet from the current venue. Tulane baseball has enjoyed significant success at this location, posting a home winning percentage above .700 over the years. The program has also hosted numerous high-profile events, 23 conference tournaments, and 2 NCAA World Series appearances. Food & Beverage 4 Located on the concourse under the grandstand and a food truck on the third-base side (Flower Way Fan Zone). There are two main concession stands offering ballpark favorites, and the food truck features a few local favorites. Tulane athletics are cashless, so all sales are debit or credit only. Fans can purchase stadium dogs, cheeseburgers, nachos, pretzels, peanuts, popcorn, and Creole sausages. There is also candy, chips, soda pop, and domestic and premium beer (24 ounces). A sweet treat that is available is an Icee. The Dook’s Food Truck offers gameday specials such as boudin egg rolls, chicken tenders with fries, wings, and hot honey chicken fries. They are fries topped with chicken bites, hot honey sauce, and ranch. The boudin egg rolls are stuffed with Cajun sausage, which is a mixture of rice, onions, and spices. The Warning Track is a draft beer garden located on the LF line concourse. The area offers multiple beers on draft. They include Leinenkugel Summer Shandy, Southern Drawl Pilsner, Jockamo Juicy IPA, and Batture Blonde Ale. Coach’s Corner Market is above home plate and offers grab-and-pay areas of beer, wine, seltzers, and canned cocktails. Atmosphere 3 Greer Field at Turchin Stadium has a capacity of 5,000 and features a middle concourse between the upper and lower sections of chairback seating. The structural steel grandstand was expanded during the last renovations to provide more fan comfort at the game. The seating bowl includes a partially covered section for protection from the Louisiana heat, along with an open-air club suite that provides a more premium game-day atmosphere. Additional premium seating is available in four private suites located along the first baseline. These suites include air-conditioned interiors, kitchenette space, and private restrooms, and are accessible via elevator. The elevator also leads to an upgraded press box, which now features individual broadcast booths, expanded workspace for media members, and modern connectivity. The main entrance to the ballpark features the Goldring Plaza, a welcoming exterior space that is accented with commemorative bricks purchased by Tulane supporters. Just a tad on the first base side of the concourse is the Eric Lane Wall of Champions, honoring past accomplishments in Green Wave history: College World Series appearances, regional appearances, conference championships, and retired numbers. A decorative video board installed above the left-field videobaord provides the in-game atmosphere with replays, highlights, and updated statistics. The ballpark features an expanded concession area, a merchandise stand, a sythetic playing field with an oversized wordmark logo of the pelicans on bats. Neighborhood 3 Just across from Greer Field at Turchin Stadium, fans will find a couple of solid dining options. Ted’s Frostop Diner is a local favorite for classic burgers, fries, and its signature root beer served in frosty mugs, while Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria and Bayou’s Hot Wings are worth grabbing a bite to eat before or after the ballgame. The B Spot is burgers, shrimp n grits, gumbo, and chicken and waffles. The area around Tulane offers plenty to explore. Audubon Park, located right next to campus, is perfect for a relaxing walk and is also home to the popular Audubon Zoo. A bit farther out, City Park features family-friendly attractions like Storyland and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, complete with a scenic train ride. For those looking to experience Tulane’s nightlife, The Boot on Broadway is a longtime campus staple. Fans 3 The average attendance figures are not as strong as several other programs in the South. However, Tulane fans are known for their passion for their baseball team, as well as for creating a welcoming environment for everyone who enters the stadium. They are enthusiastic and supportive during the game, adding a great soundtrack to the game day experience. The Green Wave averaged 1,437 fans last season, above the average in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Access 3 Access requires tickets, with options for chairback seating in the grandstand, and adheres to a clear bag policy (12” x 12” x 6”). No re-entry is allowed once inside. Parking is available in the Rosen Lot behind Greer Field at Turchin Stadium, as well as at the Diboll Parking Garage on Ben Weiner Drive. Accessible seating is located above the 100-level seating on the concourse, reachable via a ramp on the first-base line. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices start at $9 for the left-field bleachers and public seating in right field. Box and reserved seats range from $16 to $32 per game. Day-of-game parking is available in the Claiborne Lot for $17 and the Diboll Garage for $10. Both parking areas open three hours before the first pitch for all games. Merchandise is available at The Flower Wave Way Fan Zone. Weekly promotions include Friday Night Bingo, Double Play Tuesdays (2-for-1 specials), and two Bark at the Park nights throughout the season. Extras 2 The ballpark earns a few extra points for its promotional nights, colorful uniforms worn by the Green Wave, and its local craft beer selection Final Thoughts Greer Field at Turchin Stadium successfully combines history, comfort, and fan-friendly features into one of the top environments in college baseball. Whether visiting for the atmosphere, the amenities, or the quality of play, fans will find a ballpark experience that reflects both the pride and tradition of Tulane University.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Gulfport Sportsplex 17200 16th St Gulfport, MS 39503 SWAC Softball website Gulfport Sportsplex website Year Opened: 2006 Postseason Softball Comes to the Gulf Coast Since its debut in 1997, the Southwestern Athletic Conference Softball Tournament has served as the annual post-season for one of HBCU’s most storied and competitive conferences, bringing together the top eight schools from the conference in a double-elimination battle for the SWAC crown and an automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament. In those early years the conference tournament rotated amongst various conference schools, but beginning in 2009 the event evolved into a more neutral site tournament, first landing in Hattiesburg (2009), before making stops in Decatur, AL (2010-15), Irondale, AL (2016), and Montgomery (2017-19). Since 2021, the tournament has found a home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast at Gulfport Sportsplex, a sprawling 250-acre complex that offers one of the premier rec sports facilities in Mississippi. Opened in 2006, Gulfport Sportsplex features 15 championship-level baseball and softball fields (9 turf and 6 grass), four large soccer fields, and Gulf Islands Water Park, which is also located on the property. Located just minutes from the Gulf Coast’s beaches, casinos, restaurants and nightlife, the venue provides the SWAC tournament with a vacation-like atmosphere on the Gulf Coast. Food & Beverage 3 For a youth sports facility, Gulfport Sportsplex offers a food and beverage setup that easily exceeds expectations during the SWAC Softball Tournament. The primary concession stand, located down the left field line of Field 15, serves as the tournament’s main dining hub, and provides a surprisingly wide selection. While the venue itself may carry the bones of a traditional rec league complex, the concessions area feels notably upgraded, anchored by a large covered pavilion complete with picnic tables and distinctive spiral-style bar chairs that offer a breezy, shaded place to relax between innings or games. Fans can choose from substantial items like BBQ chicken nachos, pizza, quesadillas, chicken tenders, hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, fries, and hot pretzels, while lighter or family-friendly options include yogurt, Uncrustables PB&J sandwiches, bananas, popcorn, and Slim Jims. The candy and snack selection is particularly broad, offering individual treats such as Reese’s Cups, M&M’s, Skittles, Starburst, Snickers, Sour Patch Kids, cotton candy, muffins, donuts, Italian ice, and more. Coca-Cola serves as the official soft drink provider of Gulfport Sportsplex, ensuring the usual lineup of sodas and refreshing beverages that fit naturally within the classic ballpark atmosphere. As expected for a family-oriented amateur sports facility, alcohol is not available for purchase. Atmosphere 4 The SWAC Softball Tournament takes place on the north side of Gulfport Sportsplex, centered around Field 15 among the complex’s six turf diamonds. On paper it may sound like a fairly standard youth sports facility setup, and in many ways, it still is. But during tournament week, this 20-year-old complex undergoes a remarkable transformation. Despite opening in 2006, Gulfport Sportsplex feels strikingly modern, with facilities so well maintained that visitors could easily mistake it for a venue 5 years old. What is ordinarily a regional sports complex transforms into a full-fledged collegiate championship environment, as the SWAC turns this familiar youth tournament setting into an energetic postseason stage. From the moment fans arrive, the conference branding is impossible to miss. SWAC signage and banners are displayed everywhere throughout the complex, creating the sense that this is no ordinary softball tournament. At the main entrance, flags representing all 12 SWAC member schools proudly wave, even though only eight teams earn the right to compete. In addition, a welcoming display near the front gate, complete with Gulfport Sportsplex signage, multiple flags, and a small decorative turf field built into the asphalt, offers an inviting first impression when you arrive at the complex. A small pop-up merch stand is set up at the main entrance as well. Field 15 itself may look kind of basic in structure, but this is elevated by SWAC branding and atmosphere. Two small sets of standard bleacher seating flank the field, enclosed by iron gates adorned with SWAC championship logos and signage. A large backstop, boldly displaying “SWAC Softball Tournament,” anchors the venue and reinforces the event’s postseason significance. Facing south, the field offers a straightforward layout with a simple scoreboard in left field. Beyond the fences lie stretches of parking lots and wooded surroundings, but in right field, visitors are treated to a unique glimpse of the towering water slides from nearby Gulf Islands Waterpark. For the SWAC Softball Tournament, Gulfport Sportsplex transforms from a traditional youth sports venue into a fitting home for one of HBCU softball’s most important championships. Neighborhood 3 While Gulfport may not immediately carry the flash or casino-heavy reputation of neighboring Biloxi, visitors who assume there is little to explore here will quickly discover that Mississippi’s third-largest city offers far more than meets the eye. Gulfport provides a mix of family attractions, shopping, coastal culture, and laid-back Gulf Coast charm, making it an ideal host city for an event like the SWAC Softball Tournament. Right on the sportsplex grounds, families will find Gulf Islands Waterpark, one of Coastal Mississippi’s top warm-weather attractions, with towering water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly splash zones. Even though the waterpark isn’t open yet during the tournament, the water slides still create a memorable view in right field. Gulfport Sportsplex also benefits from a highly accessible location near the major interchange of Highway 49 and Interstate 10, placing visitors directly in the heart of one of Gulfport’s busiest commercial corridors. In the immediate area, travelers will find virtually every convenience imaginable, from major chain restaurants and hotels to large retail hubs like Crossroads Shopping Center and Gulfport Premium Outlets. This stretch of Gulfport offers all the practical amenities visitors could need without venturing far from the action on the field. In addition, a few miles west on Menge Avenue, the newly opened Buc-ee's has quickly become a regional attraction of its own. However, the real heart of the city lies about seven miles south along Highway 49 in downtown Gulfport. Here, the atmosphere shifts to a more authentic coastal Mississippi experience. Visitors can enjoy standout local dining options such as Half Shell Oyster House, known for upscale Gulf seafood and New Orleans-inspired dishes; Patio 44, which offers Southern coastal cuisine in a polished setting; Sully’s Gulfport, a longtime local favorite for seafood and steaks; Murky Waters BBQ, which brings a lively blues-and-barbecue atmosphere; and Tony’s Brick Oven Pizza, a reliable stop for brick oven pizzas. Downtown also offers some of Gulfport’s best recreational and family attractions. Jones Park provides a scenic waterfront green space ideal for walking, relaxing, or enjoying ocean views before or after tournament action. Nearby, the Mississippi Aquarium has become one of the city’s standout modern attractions, while the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum, often known as Traintastic, offers one of the region’s most enjoyable family experiences for younger children and train enthusiasts. Ship Island Excursions also provides a unique opportunity to venture into the waters of the Gulf of America – departing from Gulfport Harbor, these ferry trips transport visitors to Ship Island, part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, with its pristine beaches and historic Fort Massachusetts, a Civil War-era fort. And, of course, Biloxi is just one town over, where you can find plenty more family attractions, hotels, casinos, and restaurants than you will find in Gulfport. The entire Mississippi Gulf Coast is one hidden gem and has something for everyone. Fans 4 One of Gulfport’s biggest advantages as host of the SWAC Softball Tournament is its ability to serve as a true neutral site, while remaining within reasonable driving distance for many of the conference’s schools. Its location along the Mississippi Gulf Coast makes it especially appealing, combining postseason softball with beaches, casinos, and family attractions that can turn a tournament trip into a full weekend getaway. This coastal setting gives Gulfport strong regional appeal. Attendance varies throughout the week, with early-round games typically drawing around 80 to 100 fans, as was the case during the Florida A&M versus Arkansas-Pine Bluff matchup I attended. While those crowds are modest, you have to remember this is a rec league softball field, so it only has bleacher seating for about that many fans. By the semifinals and championship rounds, attendance often grows into the hundreds as the stakes rise and fan bases travel in larger numbers. Jackson State, Florida A&M, and Southern consistently rank among the tournament’s best-traveled programs, bringing some of the strongest support each year, and creating a raucous environment. Access 3 Getting to Gulfport Sportsplex is relatively easy, whether you are driving in from across the Gulf Coast or flying in for the tournament. For air travelers, Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is the closest airport to the venue, located just minutes away and offering the most convenient option for out-of-town visitors. Gulfport’s location is also ideal regionally, sitting almost directly halfway between New Orleans and Mobile (75 miles from each) along the Interstate 10 corridor, making it a practical destination for SWAC schools and fans traveling from multiple directions. Getting to Gulfport Sportsplex is fairly straightforward, with Interstate 10 serving as the primary route whether you are traveling from the east or west along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. For most visitors, I-10 Exit 31 at Canal Road offers the easiest and most direct route to the complex. This exit provides a quick approach with minimal congestion and is often the best option for first-time visitors. Travelers can also use Exit 34 at Highway 49, which may add a bit more drive time, but offers the advantage of passing Gulfport’s larger shopping centers, restaurants, and hotel corridor before reaching the venue. Taking Highway 49 also brings you in through the back entrance of the sportsplex, placing you directly near the turf fields and closer to Field 15, where the SWAC Softball Tournament is held on the north end of the complex. Once on site, parking is one of the venue’s biggest conveniences, as it is completely free for all attendees. The easiest landmark to follow is the towering water slides of Gulf Islands Waterpark, which are visible from multiple points around the complex. Parking near the waterpark places you within easy walking distance of the softball fields, with Field 15 located toward the rear portion of the sportsplex. While access is generally smooth, foot traffic around the championship field can become crowded during marquee matchups, particularly when fan-heavy programs like Florida A&M, Jackson State, or Southern are playing. Bleacher seating can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended for premium seating. Fortunately, once fans purchase their digital general admission ticket, they are free to enter and exit the complex throughout the day, allowing flexibility to explore Gulfport or take breaks between games. Return on Investment 4 At just $11 for general admission, with all tickets conveniently purchased online, the SWAC Softball Tournament offers one of the better postseason values in college athletics. Fans receive access to high-stakes championship softball in a well-maintained neutral-site setting. Gulfport Sportsplex’s intimate layout also offers excellent sightlines and close proximity to the action, allowing spectators to fully experience every key moment, from early-round elimination games to championship celebrations. When you combine affordable pricing with competitive HBCU softball, a polished tournament atmosphere, and the added bonus of Gulf Coast attractions nearby, the overall return on investment is strong for both dedicated fans and casual visitors alike. Extras 3 Mississippi Valley State University remains the tournament’s most successful program, holding the record with eight SWAC Softball Tournament championships since the tournament began in 1997, followed by Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern with 4 SWAC conference softball titles each. One of Gulfport Sportsplex’s most distinctive features is the presence of Gulf Islands Waterpark directly on site, which typically doesn’t open until late May, however, often after the SWAC Tournament has concluded. Its towering slides and colorful structures still provide a unique visual backdrop unlike any other college softball venue. Even when closed, the adjacent park reinforces the family-friendly, destination-oriented feel of the complex and gives visitors another reason to consider returning to Gulfport during the summer months. Gulfport’s location may be the tournament’s greatest extra value. Positioned almost perfectly between New Orleans and Mobile along Interstate 10, the city offers a highly accessible neutral site with beaches, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment all within close reach. This prime coastal setting helps elevate this tournament beyond a standard conference championship, making Gulfport Sportsplex a true regional destination.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre 6 Northmen Way Orangeville, ON L9W 3B2 Orangeville Northmen website Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 1,050 Rose of Orange With a mere population of 28,000, the Town of Orangeville has a significant sports legacy. The Orangeville Prep Basketball Academy counts Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets, along with Edge and Christian (Adam Copeland and Jay Reso) of professional wrestling fame along its alumni. Despite these famous residents, Orangeville is essentially a lacrosse town. Orangeville offers among the most in-depth lacrosse programs in Ontario and fields three teams at the junior level with the Orangeville Northmen of the OJLL at the top of the chain. Few centres offer both Junior A and Junior B teams, but Orangeville offers Junior A, Junior B, and Junior C teams. Those who play Junior A lacrosse for the Northmen hope to translate their success on the floor to opportunities in the NCAA or the professional National Lacrosse League. Orangeville Northmen alumni include Pat Coyle, Josh and Phil Sanderson, Brodie Merrill, Mike Poulin, and current General Manager Nick Rose. All have or are currently playing in the NLL. Home for the Northmen is the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre. Named after the father of GM and Toronto Rock goaltender Nick Rose, the Tony Rose offers seating for 1,050 in the main arena and a classic lacrosse environment. Tony Rose was a member of the Northmen in the eighties and was a member of Senior B championship teams. He was a promoter of local lacrosse and died in a car accident in 1990. Food & Beverage 3 The Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre has a fairly typical concession scene for Junior A lacrosse. A single snack bar-style concession is found in the lobby and offers all of the expected arena delicacies. French fries, poutine, hot dogs, popcorn, candy, muffins, freezies, and chips are all available. Vending machines opposite the concession offer soft drinks. Inside the main arena, a small selection of beer and seltzer can be found. Atmosphere 3 The Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre functions as a typical town community centre. The exterior is a mix of both modern and dated looks for the two-pad complex. The main entrance off of Northern Way features a mix of light brick which gives it a clean, attractive look. “The Torchbearer” and “Mr. Lacrosse,” wooden sculptures which are part of the Orangeville Art Walk of Tree Sculptures, welcome sports fans heading to the game. Mr. Lacrosse is a tribute to Orangeville lacrosse legend, the late Terry Sanderson. Inside, fans will enter a small lobby before heading into the main arena. In the lobby, there is a display for Tony Rose including his stick and jersey. Inside the main arena, fans are greeted by volunteers at temporary tables for ticket sales, raffles, and merchandise sales. The floor runs from north to south and offers 10 rows of step bench seating on the west side. On the north end of the arena is a trophy case that lacrosse fans should check out as there are a ton of accolades and awards for the Northmen. In the northeast corner, around what could be the operations window, hang the six Minto Cup Championship banners signifying the highest honour possible in junior lacrosse, the national championship. (1993, 1995, 1996, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2015) . The north wall also offers some nice touches including a large banner signifying the retired number 19 for Terry Sanderson. To the left there is also a large, touching, “In Memoriam” banner with the initials of those Northmen who have passed. The nod to Northmen history and accomplishments continues with a trophy case with artifacts for former Team Canada player, Chris Sanderson and painted championship rosters for Northmen Ontario Senior Champions from the eighties. The eastern wall is littered with youth box and field lacrosse championship banners. The simple hockey-style scoreboard is found on the south end. The playing surface is polished concrete and does have a centre floor logo, to further personalize the venue. The gameday production is very simple with some music played during down times and a 50/50 draw is at the centre of the promotions. The PA system is poor and it is difficult to understand the announcements that are being made much of the time. Neighbourhood 3 Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre is located in the town of Orangeville, which is not huge. Orangeville is located northwest of Brampton and west of Highway 10. There is not much in the way of pre or post-game spots for food and drink in the residential area surrounding the arena, so fans should head south to Broadway for more options. Bluebird Cafe, Rustik Local Bistro, Black Wolf Smokehouse, and Hockley Valley Brewing are some options fans may wish to check out. There is not much in the way of other sports in the immediate area, however, Orangeville being such a lacrosse hotbed, the Junior B or Junior C Orangeville Northmen may be of interest. For other entertainment options, Theatre Orangeville may be of interest and the Walk of Tree Sculptures are worth checking out. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Best Western on Highway 10 is a good option. Fans 4 Assessing fans in the OJLL is difficult as the attendance figures are not published. The game that was reviewed was also part of the OJLL Finals series. That being said, the Orangeville Northmen enjoy a strong support network. The game that was reviewed involved a standing-room-only crowd. The fans in attendance are loud and supportive and even take their support to the next level with college hockey-type chants after goals. Access 4 The Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre is located in central Orangeville. It is located west of Highway 10, the main artery in town. Getting to the arena will require going through town, which is not a big deal. For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, there is a bus stop right across the road from the arena. Fans should consult the Orangeville Transit website for fares, schedules, and maps. The Tony Rose facilities are fairly tight when there is a big crowd, and feature benches that are not the most comfortable, and there is no air conditioning making it pretty hot during the summer months. Return on Investment 5 Orangeville Northmen and OJLL lacrosse offer tremendous value for a very small investment. Tickets for the Northmen are $10, parking is free and concession offerings offer a decent price. The lacrosse on the floor is fast and pure without too much production. In the end, this all adds up to a tremendous return for a minimal investment. Extras 3 An extra mark for the strong community connection that Orangeville has with the sport of lacrosse. An extra mark for Northmen GM Nick Rose, who not only is the goaltender for the Toronto Rock but also the son of Orangeville legend Tony Rose. An extra mark for the massive Orangeville Northmen alumni including Nick Rose, Phil Sanderson, Josh Sanderson, Mike Poulin, Pat Coyle, and Brodie Merrill to name a few. All have had significant careers in the National Lacrosse League. Final Thoughts Orangeville and lacrosse go together like peanut butter and jelly and the Orangeville Northmen are the main attraction for the town. For lacrosse fans, a trip to see the Orangeville Northmen will be an experience that will be worth the time, and checking out all the lacrosse artifacts and history at the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre will be worth it. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Toronto Rock Athletic Centre 1132 Invicta Drive Oakville, ON L6H 6G1 Oakville Buzz website Toronto Rock Athletic Centre website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 750 What’s the Buzz in Oakville? In 1999 the Ontario Raiders moved from Hamilton to Toronto to become the Toronto Rock. Making their home at the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens until 2001, the Rock helped expand the reach of lacrosse in Southern Ontario and definitely increased its status. Under the ownership of Jamie Dawick, in 2012, the Rock would open a training centre for the team to house its offices and provide space for the Rock to practice. Going beyond the practicality of providing for the team, the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre, in the nearby city of Oakville has become a hub for lacrosse activity in the area. With two indoor box lacrosse fields and an outdoor turf field, the TRAC has become a centre for lacrosse at all levels. The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is the home for the Oakville Buzz of the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League. The top junior lacrosse league is viewed as one of the top providers of lacrosse talent to the professional National Lacrosse League. The Buzz moved up to the OJLL, which is Junior A level, from Junior B in 2019, after winning a Junior B, Founders Cup National Championship in 2006. Taking advantage of one of the top lacrosse facilities in the province, the Buzz provides a good lacrosse experience for Ontario fans. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at the TRAC are fairly simple but not insignificant. The typical snack bar experience is what fans can expect. Hot dogs, slushies, candy, popcorn and soda make up the menu for the most part. Sometimes pizza and other items are also available. Concessions will keep fans from being hungry during the game, but not replace a trip somewhere else for a pre or post game meal. Atmosphere 3 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is basically the training ground for the Toronto Rock of the National Lacrosse League. Complete with offices, medical and a pro shop, the TRAC is an innovative centre for lacrosse in the Greater Toronto Area. The exterior is attractive, with a clearly designated main entrance. Red and blue pillars highlight the grey exterior with plenty of windows for a sleek, smart look. That look continues as fans enter the lobby of the TRAC, which continues the Toronto Rock theme and markings but in a classy fashion with some tiled floors and walls. When fans enter for a Buzz game, there are temporary tables off to the right where tickets are sold as well as raffle tickets and a merchandise table. Entering the playing area, fans will immediately be struck with the notion that this facility was built for lacrosse. The TRAC features synthetic turf for a playing surface, similar to what can be found in the National Lacrosse League. Many of the other OJLL venues have concrete floors for the playing surface. The floor runs from west to east with seating on the south side. Four rows of simple step benches comprise the seating area, so the majority of fans sit on the last row to take advantage of the wall behind the final bench. The west side of the arena features a simple, yet effective, scoreboard, which is surrounded by the Toronto Rock championship banners and retired number and honoured coaches banners. The arena is well lit and very clean. On the east side is a balcony which links to the upper level offices. Although it is great to see all of the accolades for the Toronto Rock, there is little to no evidence that the Oakville Buzz play here at all. Even a simple banner acknowledging the 2006 Founders Cup Championship would be good. The gameday production at a Buzz game is very simple. Unlike the NLL, music is not used during play. The Buzz take advantage of the excellent PA system and use promotions such as 50/50 and raffles. The Buzz add just enough production value to make the game feel a little more professional, but at no point is the attention taken away from the action on the floor. Neighbourhood 2 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is located in Oakville, Ontario in an essentially industrial area. Oakville is located on Lake Ontario, between Hamilton and Toronto. The TRAC is east of the Falgarwood neighborhood in Oakville and there is not much in the immediate area. Cameron’s Brewing Co is just up the road. Other than that, fans will need to hop into the car. Monaghan’s Sports Pub is about five minutes away, or fans can head south to Downtown Oakville and find a spot somewhere on Lakeshore Road. As for other sporting options, Oakville doesn’t offer too much. Glen Abbey Golf Course is in Oakville and has been home to the Canadian Open on a number of occasions and may warrant a visit. Otherwise, fans may wish to head to Hamilton or Toronto for sporting options. Of course, the Toronto Rock at FirstOntario Centre would be an option if it were not off-season. As far as other tourist options, heading to the waterfront might be a good plan. For fans wishing to stay near the TRAC, the Holiday Inn is not too far. Fans 3 Assessing fans in the OJLL is extremely difficult. Attendance figures are not published. The game that was reviewed was a playoff game. The capacity of the TRAC is only 750, so the couple hundred fans in attendance made the game seem adequately populated. It is difficult to assert how many fans in attendance were beyond the “friends and family” category. The fans in attendance are fairly reserved and not over the top. Access 5 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is located between the Falgarwood neighbourhood in Oakville and Highway 403. Getting to the arena is not difficult at all due to the proximity of the highway and the industrial neighbourhood the TRAC is in. There is plenty of free parking on the premises for fans who are driving to the game. For fans who wish to take public transit, there are Oakville Transit bus stops on North Service Road, near Invicta Drive. Fans should consult the Oakville Transit website for maps, schedules and fares. Inside the TRAC, washroom facilities are more than adequate for the expected crowd and getting around the facility is no problem at all. Return on Investment 5 There are not too many experiences that can be found for a $20 bill anymore, but the Oakville Buzz are one of them. Tickets for the Buzz go for $15 per adult. Students and seniors get in for $10. Parking is free and concession prices are decent. The product on the floor is exciting and fun. The math works out for the fan in this case for sure. Extras 2 An extra mark for the TRAC providing a hub for lacrosse. A clear benefit to promote the game. An extra mark for expanding the Toronto Rock brand, giving junior players something to strive for each game. Final Thoughts Checking out some OJLL lacrosse action and the Oakville Buzz is a great way for fans to catch the next generation of lacrosse professionals during the summer months. The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre offers a professional facility that is a real advantage for the players who play there. If you were wondering what’s the buzz in Oakville, now you know to see for yourself. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photo by John Rydell/Maryland Matters For stadium and track enthusiasts following the massive overhaul of Maryland's racing facilities, the long-term vision for Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course has hit a slight delay. The Legislative Policy Committee recently imposed a 45-day pause on the Maryland Stadium Authority's proposed $48.5 million purchase of Laurel Park, asking for a cost-benefit review of the deal. The Maryland Stadium Authority announced the deal with 1/ST Maryland LLC just over two weeks ago, with plans to transform Laurel Park into a state-of-the-art training facility. Fans attending the 151st Preakness Stakes on May 16 do not need to worry about a venue change. The pause will not affect the race, which is being held at Laurel Park while its traditional home in Baltimore, Pimlico, is currently being razed and rebuilt. Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore City) explained that the committee, which consists of House and Senate leaders, wants to look closely at the long-term plans. Ferguson stated they want “to get a full accounting of the dollars that have gone out and plan for the dollars ahead.” The sudden shift to Laurel Park comes after the state purchased Shamrock Farms in Carroll County for $4.5 million in August. Converting that 328-acre property into a training center was later deemed excessive and environmentally problematic. Officials claimed the Laurel Park purchase would save the state $50 million compared to the Shamrock Farm conversion costs. A May 4 letter from the legislators pointed out that the Laurel Park proposal “is less expensive, maybe intuitively appealing, [but] no estimates or timelines have been provided.” The letter also stated, “Although MSA [the stadium authority] asserts that Laurel Park is a more suitable project, not much is known about the costs associated with construction of a facility at Shamrock Farm or Laurel Park. MSA has not provided detailed cost estimates for construction or environmental mitigation at either location. MSA has also not disclosed its plan for Shamrock Farm if Laurel Park is purchased.” These facility developments are part of the state's ongoing efforts to preserve the horse racing industry, which Gov. Wes Moore (D) claims provides nearly 30,000 jobs and $3 billion in economic activity. In 2024, lawmakers passed the Pimlico Plus Plan to consolidate thoroughbred racing. The plan called for tracks owned by the Stronach Family and 1/ST to close, effectively making the state government the operator of thoroughbred racing in Maryland. Pimlico is slated to be replaced by a modern facility that will host 120 racing days. However, widespread support for the sport remains a concern. Further complicating the racing landscape, 1/ST recently announced an $85 million deal with Churchill Downs for the intellectual property rights to the Preakness and Black-eyed Susan stakes. This agreement remains subject to the state's licensing deal, which grants Maryland an “exclusive and perpetual license” to the Preakness starting this July. Under that agreement, the state pays a $3 million base fee that increases 2% annually, plus 2% of the race handle. Additionally, the Stronach Family and 1/ST agreed to place the $7 million Woodlawn Vase trophy on permanent loan to the state. As the state navigates these massive investments in its racing venues, officials are questioning the ongoing approach.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Papago Sports Complex 1802 N 64th St Phoenix, AZ 85008 Map It! Arizona Complex League Giants website Papago Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2022 (Complete Rebuild) Capacity: 300 (Approx) Rookie Giants The ACL Giants (Arizona Complex League) play their home baseball games at beautiful Papago Sports Complex, an attraction within Papago Park, an outdoor recreation park in Phoenix. The Arizona Complex League (formerly known as the Arizona League) is one of two rookie-level baseball leagues of MLB, the lowest level of the organization. The games are nine innings and use only two umpires. If you look at the rosters, most players were born after 9/11. For many players and umpires, the ACL is their first professional engagement. The ACL season runs from early May to the end of July. We recommend attending a game or two here in May as the weather tends to be cooler than later on in the spring/summer. The ACL Giants began playing at the recently renovated Papago Sports Complex in 2022. The San Francisco Giants, along with the city of Phoenix, completely rebuilt the player development center at the park, making it one of the nicer training complexes in the league. Prior to moving to Papago Park, the ACL Giants played at Scottsdale Stadium’s back fields. Food & Beverage 0 The complex does not sell any concessions; fans are welcome to bring their own food and beverages in when watching a game. We recommend bringing in at least two bottles of water, as the weather can still be quite warm in Phoenix even during evening games. Atmosphere 3 Papago Sports Complex offers a comfortable, tranquil few hours for any fan who enjoys baseball for the game, and not all the other entertainment that bombards fans at various minor and major league games. The venue has two rows of comfortably wide green fold-down stadium seats with most under the shade; one row extends 30 feet or so along the inner baselines. The stadium offers plenty of legroom and areas to place your own lawn chair or sit on cement steps. Papago Sports Complex Seating, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey A thick black chain link fence protects fans watching the game, while a net in right field protects vehicles in the parking lot from any home runs. Both dugouts are caged; fortunately for the players, the dugouts have overhead fans. A dot matrix scoreboard sits in right center field and displays the basic line score: balls, strikes, outs, and runs per inning. The field is natural grass. The Giants' home dugout is on the third base side. The Giants do not play music, and there is no announcer; it’s perfect and tranquil for those who just want to watch the game. Papago Sports Complex - A tranquil place to watch an ACL Giants game, Video by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Visitors to the ballgame have a view of a small mountain range (McDowell Mountains) to the northeast beyond the left field wall. Neighborhood 3 The sports complex’s neighborhood is the park itself, home to the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Gardens, golf courses, museums, lakes, and hiking trails. While no places to eat or drink are within walking distance, a short drive (about 5 miles) down Mill Ave will bring fans to downtown Tempe, which has plenty of places to imbibe and dine. Pedal Haus Brewery (brewery with a full menu), Zipps Sports Grill, Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant, and Postino Annex (wine café and light fare) are just a few recommended places. My favorite, Hundred Mile Brewing, is four miles away. Hotels are just two or so miles from the complex, with even more near the airport, like a Residence Inn, Radisson, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. For other sports to watch when in town, check out some of the other ACL teams, like the Angels, the Cubs, or the Athletics. Chase Field, where the Diamondbacks play, is about ten miles west, as is Matchup Mortgage Center, where the Phoenix Mercury play. Fans 2 The Arizona Complex League does not draw many fans. In fact, most of the seating at Papago is players not in the lineup and scouts. You may see some baseball fans or girlfriends. The official scorer sets up a table on the concourse behind home. ACL Giants Official Scorer, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Access 3 Getting to Papago Park is not convenient using public transportation. A vehicle is the best method for getting there. Uber and Lyft are readily available in Phoenix. The hardest part is not knowing which field to go into. If coming from Loop 202, go north on Priest Dr (turns into Galvin Parkway). Cross over McDowell Rd, then make your first left into the park (no light). Immediately turn left into the small parking lot. Map to Papago Sports Complex The paths are paved, easy for strollers and wheelchairs, and are attractively landscaped. The complex has clean, air-conditioned restrooms behind the home plate concourse. There’s no bag check, but signs indicate fans should bring backpacks or bags larger than 16” x 16” x 6”. Return on Investment 5 All Arizona Complex League games are no-charge. It’s essentially a free outing: your only costs are getting to the complex and whatever snacks or drinks you bring. The city doesn’t charge for parking, and the team doesn’t charge admission. For a few hours of baseball, that’s hard to beat. Extras 3 The players run the scoreboard themselves, and it’s fun to watch them coach one another through it and see the little spark of satisfaction when the novice figures it out. Papago Park has served many purposes throughout Phoenix’s history, from its early use as tribal land to a Depression‑era fish hatchery, a World War II POW camp, and shortly after a VA hospital site. The city of Phoenix and the SJ Giants not only rebuilt the sports complex, but they also transformed the entire site. Six MLB-standard fields and a climate-controlled indoor facility with eight batting cages were added. A 50,000 sq clubhouse with hydrotherapy, a weight room, classrooms, and dining was built, and paved pathways and a public plaza were installed. Thus, making it a true “campus” feel rather than the old scattered fields for fans and players. Final Thoughts If you enjoy baseball for its own sake and can handle the heat, an ACL Giants game makes for a worthwhile few hours out. The Papago Sports Complex provides a relaxed, intimate backdrop for taking in the game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Fenway Park 4 Jersey Street Boston, MA 02215 Boston Red Sox website Fenway Park website Year Opened: 1912 Capacity: 37,305 (day) 37,755 (night) The Lyric Little Bandbox The Boston Red Sox bill Fenway Park as “America’s Most Beloved Ball Park”. Still going strong after over a century of use, no ballpark has been more honored in film, literature, and song than Fenway Park. Fenway’s old-school charms consistently rank it near the top of any ballpark chaser’s list, and it has become one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Boston in its own right. Fenway Park is such an iconic venue that even casual baseball fans can recognize its unique design. Fenway Park takes its name from its neighborhood. The term “fens” is an Old English term for a marshy area. If you walk a few blocks southeast of the ballpark you will find yourself in the Back Bay Fens, one of these marshy areas. Established in 1901 as the Boston Americans, The Red Sox are one of Major League Baseball’s oldest and most successful teams, winning 9 World Series on top of 14 American League Pennants, 10 AL East Division titles and an additional 9 Wild Card berths. 49 Baseball Hall of Famers spent at least part of their career with the Red Sox. Food & Beverage 4 Even though Fenway Park has taken great strides in recent years to keep up with the trends of establishing gourmet options with their concession offerings, most longtime Red Sox fans still insist that the best food at Fenway Park is found at the numerous sausage carts all around the ballpark. If it’s your first trip to Boston, this is where you should stop for that authentic Fenway experience. The prices are cheaper than inside the ballpark, and the quality is excellent. That’s not to say there are no good options within Fenway Park. The team takes over Jersey Street starting ninety minutes before first pitch. Here fans will find several stands offering some of Fenway Park’s more unique offerings, including El Tiante’s Grille, The Fenway Fish Shack and A Taste of Boston, which features a rotation of local vendors. Concession stands are seemingly crammed into every nook and cranny of the ballpark, including the Big Concourse in right field, Fenway’s version of a food court. In addition to classic ballpark fare, hungry Sox fans will find plenty of locally sourced food, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan offerings. A complete Fenway Park concessions guide can be found here. For visiting fans looking for some distinctly Boston items, lobster rolls, clam chowder and Boston crème pies dot the menus around the ballpark. Much ado has been made about one of the new menu items for 2026, the lobster poutine. Served in a cardboard fishing boat, a pile of fries are covered with lobster meat, clam chowder and bacon. The price tag: a measly $39. Imagine trying to eat this monstrosity in one of Fenway’s legendary cramped grandstand seats. Or worse, the person next to you is trying to eat it. Stadium Journey’s suggestion: if you must eat lobster at a ballgame (and lord knows, you shouldn’t), have a lobster roll. You get more lobster, less mess, and you save one dollar. That’s right. A lobster roll only costs $38. Coca-Cola products are featured at Fenway Park. As you might imagine, the beer game is strong at Fenway Park. Sam Adams is the official beer of the Red Sox, so you can find all of their outstanding brews served here alongside other popular national brands. Visiting fans looking for local microbrews will be more than satisfied with the available choices, which include Mighty Squirrel, Wachusett, Lord Hobo, Ipswich Ale, Jack’s Abby, Harpoon, Fiddlehead and Dogfish, among others. Atmosphere 5 It’s hard to top the game day atmosphere at Fenway Park, which has become one of Boston’s top tourist destinations regardless of whether or not the Sox are in town. Fans flock from all corners of New England and beyond to spend a day at the ballpark. Taking in a game at Fenway has become a must for anyone traveling to Massachusetts. Fenway Park is loaded with features designed to entertain both the casual and the die-hard fan. Outside the ballpark are statues of Red Sox greats Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski and “The Teammates.” Retired number banners, World Series banners and American League pennants line the exterior of the ballpark along Van Ness and Jersey Streets. Both Lansdowne Street and Jersey Street are mobbed with fans hours before first pitch. Jersey Street is closed off to traffic before games, and is loaded with concession stands, live bands and the Red Sox Team Store. The old ticket booths here have been transformed to exhibits featuring memorabilia from each of the Red Sox’ World Series championship teams. Also located here is the old bullpen buggy, a popular spot for photos. Concessions, souvenirs, displays and activities for young and old alike are packed into virtually every corner of Fenway Park. There is an exclusive entrance just for kids (Gate K, located in center field). From the third through seventh inning, Wally’s Clubhouse offers kid-friendly entertainment and activities. Virtual reality booths, speed pitch booths and a dress like a Red Sox player booth are just a few of the attractions here. Wally and Tessie are regular visitors here. Balancing the old-school mentality of the long-time Red Sox fan with the need of younger fans for constant stimulation is a tricky act, but the Red Sox do a good job of working out these disparate goals. Video boards throughout the park keep fans engaged and entertained between innings while respecting Fenway traditions. Neighborhood 5 Old-timers like yours truly may bemoan the fact that the neighborhood around Fenway Park has become more upscale and many of the legendary dive bars and holes in the wall have disappeared, but Fenway-area favorites such as the Cask ‘N Flagon, Sweet Cheeks Q, The Bleacher Bar and The Landsdowne Pub still draw big crowds before and after Red Sox games. You’ll find excellent dining choices around Fenway no matter which direction you travel. Boston’s small geographic footprint and expansive public transportation system means that even if you do not stay right near the ballpark, it is still easy to get to. Visitors who would rather stay nearby will find Hotel Commonwealth, Residence Inn by Marriot and The Verb excellent choices in the shadows of Fenway Park. Visiting fans interested in seeing more than just a ballgame will find much to do in Boston. Explore the Freedom Trail, a walking trail through the city that links several historical locations. Tours of Boston Harbor are well worth a look, as is Faneuil Hall, a colonial meetinghouse that has been converted into a shopping and tourist destination. Museums, galleries, and tours of all kinds are located throughout the city, making Boston one of the top tourist destinations in the country. Fans 5 The Red Sox are among the league leaders in attendance year in and year out, regardless of where the team ends up in the standings. This is accomplished even though Fenway Park is among the smallest ballparks capacity-wise in the Major Leagues. Even in their down years ("ahem" 2026, "cough"), the Red Sox draw crowds many teams would die for. Red Sox fans are simply some of the most dedicated in the big leagues. One downside to Fenway Park’s status as an attraction in itself means that a portion of every crowd is there to be seen as much as to watch the game. A Fenway crowd is in constant motion, roaming the aisles and concourses all game long, which can be very aggravating to the hardcore fan. Despite the less than stellar reputation of some Boston fans, you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family to Fenway. A strong turnout from visiting fans is a common sight, given Fenway’s status as a destination spot. Some Fenway traditions have taken on a life of their own, such as the singing of Sweet Caroline in the middle of the 8th inning. This has been happening on-and-off since the mid-90’s, and at every game since 2002. Make no mistake, Boston fans are into the game to a greater degree than just about any other fan base. Fenway Park can be as loud in April as it is in August. Access 3 Let’s be frank here. Boston is a tough city to get around, Fenway can be tough to get to, and once you’ve arrived, Fenway can be tough to navigate on the inside as well. Every Bostonian has their own “secret” way to get to Fenway Park, and no two are alike. Every one of the 4.9 million citizens of greater Boston believes their route is the quickest. Simply put, they are all wrong. And no, I am not going to tell you my secret route to Fenway. The best method for getting to Fenway Park is to take public transportation. The MBTA, or “T”, as it is known locally, provides several different methods for baseball fans to get to the game. Most fans will take the subway, as the B, C, and D versions of the Green Line stop at Kenmore Station, a short five-minute walk from Fenway Park. If traveling from the western suburbs of Boston, take the commuter rail, which stops right across the street from Fenway Park at Yawkey Station. There are similar trains which travel into the city from the northern or southern suburbs, but which will require a transfer or two on the subway system to arrive at the aforementioned Kenmore station. If taking a bus is more your speed, several city routes stop within a short walk of Fenway Park. Routes 8, 9, 19, 60 and 65 stop at the corner of Jersey Street and Brookline Avenue. In addition, route 55 stops on the back side of Fenway, at the corner of Ipswich and Boylston streets. Over recent decades Red Sox ownership has continually updated and restored this historic park, adding new seating and social gathering areas in previously unimagined places. It makes Fenway Park an interesting mix of old and new features, cramped quarters and spacious sections, obstructed view seats and some of the best sightlines in the Major Leagues. Return on Investment 3 Going to Fenway Park has always been an expensive proposition. Given the park’s small capacity and the team’s incredible popularity, it’s a supply vs. demand graph come to life. The Fan Cost Index annually ranks Fenway Park among the most expensive ballparks to visit in all of Major League Baseball. In 2023, the FCI estimated a family of four will spend almost $400 at a Red Sox game. Driving this ranking are Fenway’s high ticket prices, parking charges and concession prices. That being said, there are ways to make a trip to Fenway more affordable. -Check out various ticket-resale websites for cheaper tickets. -Avoid the expensive neighborhood parking by taking the T to Fenway Park. -A souvenir soda cup features unlimited refills throughout the game. -Grabbing a bite to eat at one of the sausage carts that line the streets around Fenway Park enhances the Fenway experience and saves a few dollars. Fenway Park is a cashless facility. Even the ever-present Fenway hawkers are equipped with cashless point of sale devices. Fenway Park’s bag policy is less restrictive than other major league facilities, but check the ballpark website for particulars. Extras 5 Any ballpark that has been in use for over a century is bound to have had a memorable moment or two on its resume. The Red Sox proudly display their best moments throughout the ballpark, in methods both obvious and subtle. New visitors to Fenway should schedule some extra time to take in as much of the ballpark as possible. Banners and plaques commemorating Red Sox pennants and World Series championships are present both inside and outside the ballpark. Flags honoring every Hall of Famer to play in Boston line the outside of the park along Van Ness Street. Red Sox retired numbers are hung along the right field façade and again along the outside of the ballpark. Located by Gate B on Van Ness Street are statues honoring Red Sox legends Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and “The Teammates” (Johnny Pesky, Bobby Doerr, Dom DiMaggio and Ted Williams). Historical touches abound throughout Fenway Park, starting with the lone red seat in right field commemorating the longest home run ever hit at the ballpark to the plaques located throughout the park highlighting milestones and important features of the park. Even long-time visitors to Fenway can find something new if they explore the grounds long enough. The Red Sox do a great job of creating new content year after year. The Green Monster, Pesky’s Pole, Wally and Tessie, Sweet Caroline, Fenway Franks, the Big Concourse, Patriots Day, Dirty Water, Fenway Farms, the Citgo Sign, Kenmore Square, Lego Papi, Lansdowne Street, the triangle, the bullpen buggy, the street vendors; the list of things to see and do at Fenway Park goes on and on… Final Thoughts A lot of times people use the word “historic” interchangeably with the word “old.” At least in the baseball world, Fenway manages to be both. How old is Fenway Park? It opened the same week that the Titanic sank. While other cities are building billion-dollar complexes to replace ballparks that are only 20 years old, in Boston they are simply finding new ways to put modern touches on this classic diamond. Fenway Park is not perfect. It’s cramped, it’s crowded, and it’s expensive. Yes, some seats sit right behind poles and some seats face the wrong way. Still, ask any ballpark aficionado where they would like to see a game, and Fenway Park will likely be among their top choices. Fenway Park’s mix of historical touches, quirky features, and modern comforts is unmatched anywhere. Other cities try again and again to find the magic formula that has existed in Boston for over a century. Simply put, Fenway Park is the standard against which all other ballparks are measured. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds The home of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds of the USL Championship has a new name and hopefully, soon, a whole new look. Under a new, multi-year stadium rights agreement with First National Bank, the stadium will now be known as F.N.B. Stadium. However, the stadium's new name is not the only major news. The club released renderings of a proposed soccer stadium with three sides of covered seating pushed up against the Monongahela River and the Pittsburgh skyline in the background. The renderings also feature the HOUNDS name written on one side of the seating bowl. The stadium’s black steel-and-brick aesthetics make it one of the better-looking soccer grounds in the league. Owner Tuffy Shallenberger said that the club has invested significant capital and effort into the stadium over the past decade. “This expansion is going to be great for our fans and allow us to take our teams to the level we want to reach, but it’s also going to bring additional events here that will help the entire Pittsburgh community. We’re excited to start and take this next step forward.” Photo Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds Highmark Stadium originally opened in 2013 with a seating capacity of 3,500, which was expanded to 5,000 just five years later. The latest round of renovations will significantly increase capacity to 15,000, aligning with the league’s plans to launch a Division One level in 2028, where larger venues are expected. The upgraded stadium will introduce expanded premium seating options, including a club area with banquet space and suites that provide multiple vantage points for fans. Despite the growth and added amenities, the design will continue to ensure that all spectators can enjoy views of the Pittsburgh skyline. The renovations come with recent rampant support of the club. Over the past 3-5 seasons, there have been 73% of its home matches sold out, an 11% annual growth rate, a 26% increase in ticket revenue, and a season ticket base that has nearly doubled. The next phase at the stadium will be to update and change stadium signage inside the current South Shore venue. Financial terms of the naming deals were not disclosed. The stadium is also home to the Pittsburgh Riveters SC (USL W League) and the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds (UFA), the annual WPIAL Soccer Championship, and the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival. The stadium will host the 2027 NCAA Division III Soccer Championships. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 St. Charles High School Gym 5305 Piney Church Road Waldorf, MD 20602 DMV Soldiers website St. Charles High School Gym website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 1,500 (estimated) Soldiers of the DMV The Basketball League, known as TBL for short, is a low-level, independently operated basketball league with teams across the United States and Canada playing their home games in high school or small college gyms. Many players have professional experience and are hoping for a chance to get back to the G-League or even the NBA. Virtually all have some sort of college experience at a minimum. The DMV Soldiers are a 2026 expansion franchise who play their home games in Waldorf, Maryland at St. Charles High School. The DMV in the name refers not to the Department of Motor Vehicles but to the neighboring jurisdictions of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand at DMV Soldiers games located in a window in the lobby to the left of the entrance to the gym. The menu is fairly basic here. Nachos are $6, Domino's pizza is $4 per slice for cheese or pepperoni, hot dogs are $4, chips are $2.50, candy is $3, soda is $4, and bottled water is $3. Atmosphere 4 The gym at St. Charles High School is about what you'd expect from a high school gym, although it is on the large side. There is a large set of bleachers rising up along one side of the court, which is far too big for the crowds the Soldiers draw, and another set on the other side of the gym that is retracted to make room for a second court for the players to warm up on before the game. Unless you choose to sit way up at the top, you will be up close to the action. The only downside is that the bleachers can get quite uncomfortable, as they are plastic risers with no backs. Because of the small crowds, it doesn't feel cramped, but you will find yourself wanting to stand up and stretch after a while. Scoreboards behind both baskets show only the most basic information. One unique aspect of DMV Soldiers games is the emcee, DJ Marky Marc. Marky Marc is known for his witty banter and commentary, even during live action. This could be best described as a stream of consciousness, as he says whatever comes to mind, whether it has to do with the action on the court or not. Topics he discussed during the game we attended ranged from predictions for that day's NBA playoff games to jokes about the opposing coach to questioning whether New England was a real place. (To be fair, the last one is not entirely random, as the Soldiers were playing a team from New England, but still, that is not a phrase we ever expected to publish on this site.) He will also occasionally scream or break into a musical solo. Some will love him, while others will find him distracting and obnoxious, but it's hard to deny that he's unique. Neighborhood 3 St. Charles High School is located in a residential neighborhood between Waldorf and La Plata. Many businesses are located along Route 301 in both towns, although they are mostly chains. You will have to drive a couple of miles to get to either one as well. La Plata seems to have more non-chain options, including Marie's Diner and La Tolteca. Fans 2 DMV Soldiers fans are small in number, but those who do show up are loud. They will cheer on their team, jeer the other team, and even shout at the refs when they feel they have made a bad call. With only a couple of dozen fans in attendance at most, you hear everything that anyone in the crowd says. The Soldiers are a new franchise, and few in Southern Maryland have heard of them, so this may be an area they can improve on as time goes on. Access 4 St. Charles High School is located a few miles off of US Route 301. There are many entrances to the school, but you will want to use the one that says "Home of the Spartans" above it. When entering the parking lot, go straight back and park on the right side of the building, then walk through the entrance to the lobby. There is usually a police officer stationed outside to direct you if you are unsure of where to go. Restrooms are in the lobby as well and are more than sufficient for the crowds. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to DMV Soldiers games are $20, or $10 for youth. This is on the high end for The Basketball League, and may be part of why so few fans attend. However, it certainly won't break the bank, and concessions are pretty affordable. Keep in mind, tickets must be purchased through the Hometown Ticketing app, and if you do not buy in advance, they will have a QR code at the entrance to scan. Extras 1 DJ Marky Marc is worthy of an extra here for his emceeing. Whether you love him or hate him, he's a major part of the experience here. Final Thoughts Few in Southern Maryland have heard of the TBL or the DMV Soldiers. As a result, they have been drawing sparse crowds to their opening season. A Soldiers game is certainly a unique experience. While the level of play is low, the entertainment here can be high if that's what you're looking for, thanks in large part to the zaniness of DJ Marky Marc.

John Gentry, Indianapolis News In 1991, the Oklahoma City 89ers had a uniform snafu at the start of the season. It was brief and quickly corrected by the time the club returned home for its second homestand, but it is a little-known story that should delight a few true crime uniform folks here on this website. ​Sometime between March 30 and 31, someone broke into the Reynolds Lettering Service shop and walked away with twenty-eight 89ers road jerseys. The uniforms were brought in on Saturday morning to have new surname tags sewn on the back. The thieves also walked away with a satin baseball jacket, a television, a fax machine, a telephone, and $44 worth of candy. ​The 89ers were set to embark on their first road trip, traveling to Indianapolis on April 17, followed by stops in Buffalo and Denver. OKC general manager Jim Weigel said if the club couldn’t recover the missing uniforms, they would have no choice but to order another set for the season. The only problem was that they would not be delivered until after the road trip on May 3rd. “I really don’t want to see our club open its season wearing blue jeans and T-shirts,” said police spokesman Maj. Bob Taylor. ​Luckily, the team was expecting its red batting practice jersey in the mail sometime that week, and might have to wear it for the first 8 road games. That became reality when the club headed to play the Indianapolis Indians a few weeks later. ​ This isn't the first time someone in baseball has walked away with team merchandise. In June 1977, a break-in occurred at the visiting clubhouse of Milwaukee County Stadium, where all but seven of the Kansas City Royals jerseys were stolen. Luckily, both teams wore powder-blue jerseys, and a few Royals players sported Brewers jerseys for the game. The Indians ran into their own uniform mishap as well: their home white jerseys weren’t ready in time for the game, forcing the team to take the field in batting-practice tops. Thankfully, their tops were a rich royal blue and did not clash with the 89ers uniforms. The incident was significant enough to merit a blurb in The Indianapolis Star. ​A crowd of 13,844 at Bush Stadium watched Oklahoma City pitchers Roger Pavlik and Steve Peters combine for a no-hitter, only to see the team lose the game. Pavlika and Peters held the Tribe to only two hits but walked 9 players. Besides the combined no-hitter, Indianapolis fans also witnessed a rare color-vs.-color baseball game. Color v Color on the base paths, John Gentry, Indianapolis News The third game of the series was postponed due to rain, as well as both games scheduled in Buffalo that weekend. When the 89ers finally took the field at Mile High Stadium against the Denver Zephyrs, they were greeted by clear skies and sporting red batting-practice tops. Their unconventional look even caught the attention of The Denver Post, which mentioned it in the following day’s sports section. “The 89ers had to play Monday night with batting practice jerseys, featuring hard-to-read numbers, thanks to the fact that the team’s regular road jerseys were stolen last week.” The Niners finished the road trip with a 2-3 record and returned home to Oklahoma City. However, by the time the team headed back on the road to Nashville and Louisville, they received their second batch of road uniforms. On May 16, 1991, the 89ers finally wore their gray jerseys at Greer Stadium against the Nashville Sounds. As far as we know, they didn’t face any more uniform issues for the rest of the season, which ended with a disappointing 52-92 record in the American Association. Emails and phone calls to Weigel went unanswered for this story. It is unclear whether the missing uniforms were ever recovered or if they turned up for sale on eBay several years later. What we do know is that an unknown group of thieves forced a minor league baseball team to alter its uniform schedule and leave its mark in the world of sports. I am sure one of those thieves is laughing about it today. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Image by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Indiana State Sycamores baseball team celebrated the 40th anniversary of the team's World Series appearance this season. The current team honored these men with a pre-game celebration and donned the uniform tops for a weekend tilt against the University of Evansville. Currently, the team wears a combination of blue and powder blue jerseys, but none are as memorable as the ones worn during the 1986 College World Series run in Omaha. The style was first worn during the 1978 season on home and away uniforms and was used at times through the 1993 season. The colors used over the years included white, royal blue, and powder blue. The team alternated its uniforms, at times wearing powder-blue pants with white tops and later royal-blue pants with white tops. The jerseys worn for the occasion were pullover royal-blue tops featuring the iconic Indiana State image shaped like a pennant. A team photo was handed out to fans in the main plaza. The away uniforms were monochrome blue with a red TV number on the front of the jersey. To many in attendance, this was the look they grew up watching during the team’s success in the 1980s. The distinctive design was introduced a couple of years after manager Bob Warn took over the ball club. His name now graces the ballpark. The jersey features an image of the state of Indiana with the word STATE in all capital letters to the right of it. The font features an Old West style not seen on any other athletic uniform of the era. Combined with the image, the lettering creates a pennant-shaped design accented by a thin outline that varies in color depending on the jersey. The uniforms became tied to the ball club and other Warn teams. The Sycamores never finished below .500 from 1976 to 1994 and concluded his 21-year career at the university with a 1,070-741-9 record. This year’s team is tied for the conference lead with a 12-6 record in the Missouri Valley Conference and has posted an overall record of 28-23. The look reached its pinnacle in 1986. That year, the Trees won the MVC championship and finished with a 48-21 record. They won the Mideast Regional in Ann Arbor, Michigan, knocking off Central Michigan in the final game. They then traveled to Omaha to face Florida State, losing the first game 5-3, before being eliminated by Oklahoma State, 4-0. The team itself wore a version with silver pants and extra-large numbers on the back, but uniform styles during the 1980s also featured monochrome looks, as well as blue pants with white tops. They did not wear throwback hats featuring the interlocking ISU with a red arrow through the middle. Instead, the team wore its current caps. There was plenty of merchandise available, but the most popular items were the T-shirts featuring a stylized design in shades of blue and gray. They cost $12 and sold well, with many in attendance grabbing a few to take home as souvenirs or to give to friends. “They have been selling well, and we will bring them back for future games this year,” said a gentleman from Pacesetter Sports, where the shirts were produced. “We brought them out before this series, and people loved them.” This isn’t a story about discovering who designed the jerseys or uncovering any deeper meaning behind them. At the time, the university was known for giving its basketball, baseball, and football teams distinctive visual identities. The baseball team embraced a wordmark that looked perfectly suited for a western or country bar, while also wearing jackets featuring the slithering “S” wrapped around the outline of Indiana, the same logo that appeared on the football helmets during the 1980s. Emails to the ISU Information Department went unanswered, but this production may return in future seasons. College and university baseball programs have brought back throwback looks to much applause from fans in the grandstand. What was once old is now new again. Sometimes, certain looks never go out of style. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Audi Field 100 Potomac Avenue Washington DC 20024 DC Defenders website Audi Field website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 20,000 For The Glory Of DC The DC Defenders are the Washington, DC entry into the league referred to as the United Football League (UFL). The Defenders play at Audi Field, which is a 20,000-seat soccer-specific stadium in Buzzard Point in Washington, D.C. It was designed to be the home stadium for the Major League Soccer team D.C. United. The stadium is also used by the Washington Spirit of the NWSL. Food & Beverage 4 The food may not be the cheapest stadium food out there, but the variety of options is beyond most stadiums we have ever seen. The food is curated by famed Chef José Andrés and is a spectacular reason to visit the stand as it is. Expect to find Arepas, Pupusas, and Gourmet Tortas concession stands along the concourse. Our favorite is the Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowl and the aforementioned arepas. There may be some stands that are not open during Defender games, but we have often found that the variety is still very good. You will still find traditional favorites like hot dogs, burgers, pizza, fries, sodas, and/or domestic beers. A favorite in this category is the Half Smoke Dog. . Prices can be quite high, with one meal costing $20-$25 between meals, and a soda or water, even more, if you are planning to drink alcohol at the game. Atmosphere 4 Although the stadium was designed for soccer, it still works well for football. The stands surround the field closely on all sides. No one is far from the field, and the views are pretty amazing. The upper deck on the east side does not usually see use for Defender games. The north stands have an area of standing-room-only seats, designed for soccer fan groups, that has been filled each game with rowdy fans who have made the games quite an experience. The stadium has decent-sized concourses and many options for fans to enjoy the game atmosphere. The main issue I see is that there is only a single large videoboard used in the stadium. If you are sitting at the north end of the stadium, you may have serious issues seeing the replay action. Neighborhood 4 The immediate area around Audi Field is called Buzzard Point. Buzzard Point did not originally have much around it, but that is quickly changing. Nationals Park and the Navy Yards area are not far away if you are looking for pre- or post-game activities. Another option within walking distance is the District Wharf. The Wharf is DC's newest day trip destination, bringing famous restaurants, new shops, and beautiful waterfront views together in one place. If you go there, make sure to check out the great old fish markets. You are also in a great city, Washington, DC. The number of attractions, museums, restaurants, and other sights is astounding. Spend some time pre- or post-game seeing the many things around this great city. Fans 4 The league as a whole is struggling, and the fan base is shrinking a bit, but still, the DC team has many supporters. Defenders fans are loud, passionate, and heavily invested in the game. They create a raucous environment, constantly voicing their displeasure with referees and opposing teams. The fan base in the standing-room-only section behind the north end zone collects empty plastic cups from around the stadium to construct a massive beer snake that stretches up the section. This localized energy sustains a strong home-field advantage and keeps the crowd fully engaged from kickoff to the final whistle. Access 3 Most parking is fairly far from the stadium and towards Navy Yards. You will need to walk a bit to get to decent parking. Parking close to the stadium should not be your first option. A better thing would be to park near the Wharf and walk. The two closest Metro station options are Navy Yards and Waterfront Station. DoD ID card holders (active, reserve, retiree, dependents, and civilians) can park at Fort Lesley J. McNair, located directly across from Audi Field, for free. On weekends or federal holidays, non-reserved parking is allowed for valid ID holders. On weekdays, parking is generally restricted before 1630 (4:30 PM) to those with official business. Just remember, if travelling with non-DOD ID card holders, they will need to exit your vehicle before entering the base. Return on Investment 4 The team has tickets starting as low as $30, but often even cheaper on the secondary market. The play on the field may not be NFL-level, but the low price is an amazing starting level for even small college programs, let alone teams with professional players. Normally, we may lower the rating on this due to the high food prices. But we found the food value to still be good because of the great food offerings and the decent quantity offered. Extras 4 The unique food offerings are an extra as it is. There is a great, unique convenience-style food stand in the southwest corner offering drinks and snacks. The concourse is at field level, so you might be able to see some of the action while walking along on the south concourse. Defender merchandise will be sold at temporary tables along the concourse. Final Thoughts Audi Field provides a modern, high-energy environment for the DC Defenders. Despite broader league challenges, the intense fan support and excellent sightlines make it a premier destination for professional spring football.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mount Vernon Athletics Complex 2100 Foxhall Rd NW Washington, DC 20007 Map It! Georgetown Hoyas website Mount Vernon Athletics Complex website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 500 Colonial Softball Georgetown Hoya softball has not enjoyed much success over the years. They are just one of two current Big East members never to win the conference tournament, nor have they ever qualified for the NCAA Tournament. To make matters worse, they do not even have their own softball field. Instead, they are forced to play home games at several different venues in the DC area. In 2026, most of the Hoyas' home games were played at the Mount Vernon Athletics Complex on the campus of George Washington University. Additional home games took place at the Nationals Youth Academy in Southeast DC and on the campus of Catholic University. Although the softball facility is typically called GW Softball Field for George Washington home games to distinguish it from the rest of the Mount Vernon Athletics Complex, for Hoyas home games they use the name of the complex rather than the name of another school. Food & Beverage 0 There is no food or drink for sale at the Mount Vernon Athletics Complex. There is a coffee shop next door in Ames Hall that may or may not be open depending on when you visit, but it is not part of the stadium and keeps its own hours. Fans can bring in outside food or beverage, with the exception of alcohol. Atmosphere 4 The softball field at the Mount Vernon Athletics Complex has a quirky, unusual layout. Instead of the bleachers being located behind home plate, as they are in most venues of this size, they are located on a hill beyond the right field fence. To access them, you will need to walk up some steps alongside Ames hall to the top of the bleachers and then back down along the other side. then finally back up to wherever you sit. Some fans like to bring chairs and sit at the top of the hill, or just stand along the bottom of the hill off to the side so as not to block the view of the fans in the bleachers. It all comes down to personal preference. A few fans may be able to stand along the deck in front of Ames Hall as well, but this is mostly reserved for video equipment and may not be possible. There is a digital scoreboard built into the fence in left-center field which shows the linescore and count, but because it is embedded into the padding, it can be idfficult to see the hits and errors. The Hoyas do some activities to keep fans engaged, including t-shirt tosses and sound effects played over the PA system at appropriate times. The "Swiper, no swiping" sound effect from Dora the Explorer after Hoyas stolen bases is a fan favorite, though it would probably be more appropriate after caught stealings by their opponent. The field is on the flight path into Reagan National Airport, so jets will pass directly overhead throughout the game. The unplanned flyovers during the national anthem seem to be a running joke among fans. It’s not quite the same when it’s commercial aircraft instead of military jets, and it’s completely unplanned, but when the timing works out, it’s still impressive to watch. Neighborhood 4 The Mount Vernon Campus is located in Northwest Washington off Foxhall Road. Although there are several scenic parks and trails in the vicinity, as well as the German Embassy, your best bet for dining is to head elsewhere in the District. A seafood place and an Italian restaurant are located west of the campus near the Potomac River, and some other places up MacArthur Boulevard, but most of your options will be closer to downtown, not further. The Tenleytown and Georgetown neighborhoods are a short drive or Uber ride away and offer numerous dining and entertainment options. You can also head downtown and visit the many historic sites. monuments, and memorials along the National Mall. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the Capitol or White House, you will need to book in advance. Fans 4 Georgetown draws decent crowds to most home games, with the small bleachers and the hill full of fans to watch the Hoyas. Friends and family of the players on both teams show up in large numbers, but so do locals and miscallenous fans of the Hoyas. The unusual location on the campus of a different school does not seem to deter them from showing up, although not having an on-campus facility does keep the students away. Access 3 Depending on how you are arriving, the Mount Vernon campus can either be significantly easier or significantly harder to get to than the main GW campus in Foggy Bottom, although it is comparable to Georgetown's campus a short drive away. While it is not Metro-accessible, it is a lot easier to drive to this campus in outer Washington than it is to drive downtown to the main GW campus. There is a parking garage on campus right across from the stadium. Parking is free all day on weekends or for up to three hours on weekdays. It can get very pricey if staying for more than three hours on a weekday, starting at $16 for up to four hours and going up from there, so try to go on a weekend or time your visit accordingly. Once you manage to park, accessing the stadium is trickier than it needs to be. After exiting the elevator lobby, fans will need to turn right, go up a staircase between the outfield fence and Ames Hall, then up another staircase along th side of the building to the top of the hill, back down the other side of the hill, and finally back up the bleachers. If you bring your own chair and sit at the top of the hill, it’s slightly easier but your view may be blocked by trees. It’s less complicated than it sounds, but still more complicated than it needs to be. Restrooms are located in Ames Hall. A door is propped open on the patio level for fans to use to get in the building. All other entrances will be locked and restricted to those with a George Washington ID. Return on Investment 4 Admission to Hoyas softball games is free, and if you go on a weekend, parking is free as well. If going on a weekday, you will have to time things carefully to avoid paying a ridiculous amount for parking, so we would recommend going on a weekend if possible to maximize value. Extras 1 The quirky layout of the softball facility with many vantage points to watch a game is worthy of a star here. Final Thoughts While Georgetown softball lacks their own campus facility, their fans do not seem to mind making the trip to George Washington's campus instead. Although it is an unusual facility in terms of layout, not to mention the oddity of playing "home" games on another school's campus, a Georgetown softball game can still be a great experience for fans.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Hugh Stephens Field at Estes Park 2204 Henry St Ashland, VA 23005 Randolph-Macon Yellow Jackets website Hugh Stephens Field at Estes Park website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 500 Feel the Baseball Buzz in Ashland The campus of Randolph-Macon College is located in Ashland, Virginia, about 20 miles north of Richmond. RMC's athletic programs, known as the Yellow Jackets, compete at the Division III level in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). Randolph Macon's baseball program plays at Hugh Stephens Field at Estes Park, a 500-seat stadium on the RMC campus. Food & Beverage 0 There is no food or drink for sale at Randolph-Macon baseball games. Fans are free to bring their own. Atmosphere 4 Hugh Stephens Field is small, but absolutely gorgeous for a Division III facility. A brick facade marks the backs of the dugouts, the grandstand behind home plate, the latter of which features 500 seats, all with an excellent view of the action. The middle section is chairbacks, while the remainder are standard bleachers. Many other fans will set up chairs or stand along the first baseline near the Yellow Jackets' dugout, also affording them an outstanding view. The PA announcer and music between batters are standard for this level, and there is a scoreboard in the outfield showing the linescore and other basic information. While this isn't the largest or most elaborate stadium, it is impressive for the level of play that goes on here. Neighborhood 3 Randolph-Macon College is located in Ashland, about 20 miles north of Richmond. Downtown Ashland includes many options, including the Iron Horse Restaurant, The Caboose Market & Cafe, and Trackside Grill. There are hotels available as well for visitors who are staying overnight. Richmond is a relatively short drive away and offers many more options than would be available here. Due to the rail line that runs right down the middle of Center Street, Ashland is also a popular destination for railfans who come to see the trains pass by multiple times an hour. Amtrak and freight trains both use these lines, and people come from all over the region and beyond to watch them. Fans 5 Randolph Macon fans pack the bleachers and the grass along the first baseline, with some of the best crowds in Division III. You can expect several hundred fans for a typical home game, with weekends and games later in the season, when the weather is nicer, drawing better crowds. A typical crowd includes friends and family, locals, and RMC alumni, as well as the occasional railfan who wanders in between train passings. The fan base here is deeply knowledgeable and passionate about the Yellow Jackets baseball team and can be loud and engaged in cheering them on. While it won't rival the crowds at the largest Division I facilities in the country, considering this is Division III, the lowest division, the fan turnout here is impressive. Access 3 The Randolph-Macon campus is located a few miles off I-95. Once you are on campus, there is a parking lot adjacent to the stadium, but there is a good chance it will be full when you arrive, as it also serves Day Field (home of several different RMC sports, including lacrosse and football) and other areas of campus and the surrounding area. If this is the case, there is a large lot across the street you can park in. Keep in mind that train tracks are running down the middle of the street with an at-grade crossing, so you may need to wait for a train to pass to cross the street by car or on foot. There are no restrooms at Hugh Stephens Field itself, but there are some in Duke Hall adjacent to the stadium. Enter through the side door right next to the field, and the restrooms will be right there as you come in. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to Randolph-Macon baseball games, nor is there any charge to park. Overall, a Yellow Jackets baseball game is an outstanding value. Extras 3 There are free programs available in a mailbox by the entrance. A second star for the outfield signage honoring Randolph-Macon baseball accomplishments. A third and final star for the beautiful brick facade along the backs of the dugouts and grandstand, a rarity for this level. Final Thoughts Hugh Stephens Field at Estes Park is a gorgeous baseball facility, particularly for the Division III level of the NCAA. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm, and with the outstanding fan base Randolph-Macon has built up over the years. College baseball fans in the area will definitely want to check out a game here.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Gillette Stadium 1 Patriot Place Foxborough, MA 02305 Boston Legacy FC website Gillette Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 20,000 (soccer) Growing the Flock Boston Unity Soccer Partners applied to be a part of the NWSL expansions in 2024 and 2026 and were awarded a franchise on their second try. Their original team name, BOS Nation FC, was an anagram of “Bostonian” and a play on the word "boss." The initial marketing campaign featured the tagline, “there are too many balls in this town.” After being roundly criticized from all corners, ownership issued an apology and wisely retreated. They announced a new brand, Boston Legacy FC, five months later. Their crest, featuring an eight-feathered swan, pays tribute to the NWSL’s original eight teams, as well as Romeo and Juliet, a pair of female mute swans who lived in the Boston Public Garden. The Legacy is Boston’s second NWSL team. The Boston Breakers were members of the league from 2013-2017, playing at Harvard Stadium, Dilboy Stadium and Jordan Field. The team failed to qualify for the playoffs in any of its five seasons in the NWSL before folding. Before the NWSL, the original version of the Breakers competed in the WUSA, WPS, and WPSL Elite leagues. The Legacy are slated to play at George R. White Stadium, a 10,519-seat venue built between 1947 and 1949 as a home for Boston Public School athletics. Located in Franklin Park, Boston’s largest park, the facility is being renovated into an 11,000-seat soccer-specific stadium for the Legacy. In the 1970s, White Stadium was considered a possible home for the New England Patriots, but those plans were quickly shelved and the facility fell into disrepair. A $30 million renovation was announced in 2023 to repair the stadium for the Legacy, but estimated costs have ballooned to as high as $325 million. While the Legacy are waiting for their new home to be ready for the 2027 season, they are splitting their 2026 home schedule between Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Revolution of MLS, and Centerville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, RI, home of FC Rhode Island of the USL. Boston Legacy Football Club Logo. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 4 Gillette Stadium features a great number and variety of concession stands throughout the facility. For Legacy games, the experience is scaled back due to the smaller crowds in attendance. Not all of the stands are open, and very few of the portable stands are staffed. However, the open ones are chosen strategically so that Legacy fans get to experience all the food options enjoyed by Patriots or Revolution fans. Be warned that along with the NFL-style concessions come NFL prices. Permanent stands ring the outer edge of the main concourse. Each stand has a different theme, so you might need to do a little bit of searching to find what you need. All the stadium basics are covered, as stands feature pizza, burgers, sausages, chicken tenders, and BBQ. Smaller stands and portable carts that line the inner edge of the concourse round out the menu with various drinks and snacks. Pepsi products are featured at Gillette Stadium. As you may expect, the beer game is strong here, with national brands lining the menu boards alongside dozens of local craft favorites. For the most extensive selection of local beers, check out the Taproom or Draft Kings Lounge. One of the featured brews is Defend the Fort, a Revolution-themed beer from Cisco Brewing. A complete guide to Gillette Stadium’s concessions can be found here. Atmosphere 3 The Legacy staff does a great job creating a festive atmosphere and using all the tools at their disposal here at Gillette Stadium. There’s just one glaring issue: Gillette Stadium is just WAY too big. No matter what kind of show you put on, a crowd of 10,000 fans or less is just going to be swallowed up by the enormity of a 65,000-seat football stadium. Any noise or energy created by the fans is going to fade into the ether. Plenty is going on here in Foxboro to entertain visiting fans. The pregame fanfest starts an hour before the game in the Ticketmaster Plaza, featuring games, music, and giveaways. Gillette Stadium features the largest outdoor scoreboard in North America, measuring over 1/2 acre in size. It’s put to great use throughout the game with graphics, videos, and interactive features. Music and dance performances pregame and during halftime add to the joyous atmosphere. The Legacy has an emcee that coordinates promotions during stoppages and hypes up the crowd. The team raised a few eyebrows when they hired 19-year-old Ava Membreno as their PA announcer. Membreno, a freshman at nearby Dean College, stepped into the role with no experience, but performs her role like a veteran, adding energy to the proceedings while being a non-stop presence throughout the game. Legacy Enter the Pitch at Gillette Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 4 Gillette Stadium sits on what was once a lonely stretch of Route One, which contained only a harness racing track and a trailer park. Today, the location is the home of Patriot Place, an open-air shopping center located on the site of the old Foxboro Stadium. Over the years, it has grown to include a four-star hotel, an entertainment complex, and an outpatient health center. Fans visiting Foxboro can choose between numerous eateries ranging from casual dining to fine cuisine, from brew pubs to fancy steakhouses. Fans can bowl at Splitsville Alley, throw axes at Crazy Axes or play pickleball at Eleveno Pickleball. Movies play at Cinema de Lux, and live music is played at Showcase Live! Fans looking to stay at Patriot Place will find a Hilton Garden Inn and Renaissance Hotel steps from the stadium. Visit the Patriot Place website for more information. Fans 3 The Legacy set an NWSL attendance record in their debut at Gillette Stadium when they drew 30,204 fans for their debut. So why only an average score here? Two reasons: they haven’t come close to that figure since, and much of that opening day crowd showed up because the New Kids on the Block were on hand to perform that day. Kudos to Legacy staff for some brilliant marketing on that one. Subsequent Legacy games have drawn crowds of 10,000, 4,000 and 12,000, although the small crowd at the middle game (which was attended by Stadium Journey) can be attributed to being played on a cold, rainy Wednesday night. With the Legacy being brand new, the crowd is still finding themselves, but you’ll find a very family-friendly environment here, with lots of youth groups, families, and a burgeoning supporters group trying to establish their turf in the north end zone. Even the club’s motto, “grow the flock,” reflects the anticipated growth in support for the team. So far, the fans showing up have been very supportive and enthusiastic. Game Action at Gillette Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 4 Gillette Stadium is in Foxborough, MA (also spelled Foxboro), a small town of about 19,000 residents located halfway between Boston and Providence, RI. With only one road leading to the stadium from both directions, getting to Gillette Stadium can be a struggle. However, this is not the case with the small crowds attending Legacy games. The parking lots on the back (east) side of the stadium are used for Legacy games, with the lots on the west side available if needed. Either way, getting out of the lots and onto Route One is a snap compared to Patriots games and other full-stadium events. Even the usual nightmarish commute up (or down) Route One to the nearby Interstates is hassle-free. A major complaint regarding Gillette Stadium’s suburban location is the lack of any type of public transportation access. There is an MBTA train stop behind the stadium, but that is only operational for Patriots games. The Legacy has developed a workaround for their fans using the T (that’s what the MBTA is called in these parts). A shuttle is available to take fans from the stadium to the Mansfield station on the Providence-Stoughton Commuter Rail line. This train brings fans to Providence southbound and Boston northbound. The upper level of Gillette Stadium is closed off for Legacy games, but there is still plenty of room for visiting fans to spread out. Lines at concession stands or restrooms are not an issue at all. Return on Investment 2 Tickets for Legacy games are a bit on the pricey side for a team looking to find their footing in a crowded sports market. Tickets start at $37, with most tickets priced between $60-$75. Free parking does offset the ticket prices somewhat, but concessions, which are among the highest-priced in the NFL, are not discounted for Legacy games. You’ll be paying NFL prices for food and drink at NWSL games. Fans on the Gillette Stadium Scoreboard. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the Legacy’s promotional schedule, which focuses on inclusion and heritage nights for local ethnic groups, including nights celebrating Portuguese, Cape Verdean, Haitian, and Mexican Heritages and more. Pride nights and Women in Sports nights also highlight the schedule. A second extra point is awarded for the return of Boston to the NWSL and Legacy playing their inaugural season at the home of the Revolution and FC Rhode Island, two of the most popular teams in the area, giving the Legacy instant credibility and exposure. Final Thoughts Gillette Stadium is only a temporary stay for the Legacy as they await the completion of their home in Boston. It’s far too large for their needs, and the gameday experience suffers as a result. But it’s great to see the women get to play on the same stage as the men, even for a little while. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Shell Energy Stadium 2200 Texas Ave Houston, TX 77003 Houston Dynamo website Shell Energy Stadium Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 20,039 Houston Gamblers – Shell Energy Stadium The Houston Gamblers ride again! For the third time in history, the Gamblers live to call H-Town their home. The first version of the squad was a member of the original USFL, which folded in 1985. The squad won their division in 1984 and made the playoffs in 1984 and 1985 with a roster that was bolstered by future Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly. After its spectacular flameout after the 1985 season, the USFL was reborn in 2022, playing through the 2023 season. The league then merged with the new version of the XFL to form the United Football League (UFL) in 2024. For the 2024 and 2025 seasons, the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks supplanted the Gamblers, but as mentioned, they are back for 2026. For the 2026 season, the Gamblers will be calling Shell Energy Stadium their home field. Located in downtown Space City, the stadium is home to the Houston Dynamo of the MLS, the Houston Dash of the NWSL, and college football’s Texas Southern Tigers. Read on to learn more. Food & Beverage 3 On a normal game day, say for example for the Dynamo, Shell Energy Stadium boasts an impressive array of food and drink options. However, for the Gamblers, the options are very pared down. Don’t get me wrong, though – there are still plenty of options available; you can get a smash burger, or a hot dog, or a chopped brisket sandwich, heck, even Mexican street corn and paletas. The main concourse also has several grab-and-go spots where fans can pick up hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and bottled drinks. The issue is that nearly one in every three stands is closed for Gamblers games. Lines do tend to bog down during big breaks in the action (e.g., halftime), but you should be okay, regardless. One last thing that I really appreciated is, if you buy a souvenir cup you get unlimited refills of fountain drinks. This is something I wish more teams did, as it eases the heartburn many of us get with concession costs. Atmosphere 2 By and large, there is no mistaking that Shell Energy Stadium is primarily the home of the Houston Dynamo, as the signage and color scheme all reflect the stadium’s first tenant. This is fine, though; spring leagues really don’t have their own home stadiums, and pretty much always have to share. What they do have is a few team merchandise stands that sell Gamblers gear (the Dynamo/Dash store on the main concourse is closed on Gamblers game days). The stadium itself also has a few interesting spots for fans, like in the north end zone: the Pitchside Patio is a covered bar area at field level behind the end zone. Similarly, a Corona-themed patio bar is located on the upper concourse, which offers covered seating and a full-service bar. Neighborhood 5 I’ve written extensively about the venues in downtown Houston, with its myriad of entertainment, dining, and lodging experiences for visitors to choose from. Within walking distance – and eyesight – are both Daikin Park, home of the Houston Astros, and Toyota Center, home of the Houston Rockets (and soon to be home of the Houston Comets). Both the Astros and Rockets are in season when the UFL plays, so if you plan your schedule right, you should be able to see at least one other game while you’re in town to see the Gamblers. In terms of other entertainment options, Houston’s got the Downtown Aquarium, the Galleria, the Museum District, and Hermann Park; all are in the downtown area and very close to Shell Energy Stadium. For dining options, there are several within a short five-minute walk of the stadium. These include the Rodeo Goat, a craft burger and cocktail spot, and Gotti’s, a Cajun food lover’s dream. Again, there are tons of other options in the area for whatever your taste buds require. Lodging options are just the same; there are several within a short nine to 10-minute walk away from the football venue, with the only limit here being your budget. Nearby options include Marriott Marquis Houston and Hilton Americas-Houston. Fans 2 The Houston Gamblers are currently drawing the worst home crowd attendance figures in the UFL. AT the last game I attended, the announced crowd was just over 5,100 (which honestly was being generous). From what I was able to see, the number of fans sporting Gamblers paraphernalia was small. I think the team suffers from what happens to a lot of these clubs that take up residence in a large city – the attention span of fans is so fragmented that the team has a hard time gaining any traction. Hopefully, the Gamblers can hold on for a few more seasons and try to rebuild their fan base. Access 4 Shell Energy Stadium is very accessible to any visitor. Located in downtown Houston, it is right off Interstate 69. If you’re driving in, Houston and the stadium are around a three-hour drive from San Antonio and Austin, and a little over that from the Dallas/Fort Worth area. If you’re flying in, the venue’s roughly 25 minutes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport and 20 minutes from William P. Hobby Airport. The area is also loaded with parking lots, with some as low as $10 per car to park. For those not wishing to deal with the Houston traffic, Houston METRO will drop you off right in front of the main entrance to the stadium. Return on Investment 3 Single-game tickets for Houston Gamblers games can be had for as little as $13 each through the team website, and you can probably pick some up for even less on the secondary market. Concession costs still retain the pricing they use for MLS games, but this is still not as high as those found in other major professional sports stadiums. Nevertheless, with parking as low as $10, the overall cost to attend a Gamblers game at Shell Energy Stadium is actually quite a bargain. Extras 3 When the Houston Gamblers returned to Space City, they brought with them a lot of the traditional fanfare that most football teams have. There are the cheerleaders, their costumed mascot – Ace the Armadillo – and a team drum corps, all of whom can be found throughout the stadium engaging with fans and standing for photo ops. Beyond that, there is not much else. Final Thoughts I’ve attended games for virtually every iteration of spring football that has ever existed. All of them bring so much hope and promise, the same as with the UFL and this iteration of the Gamblers. It’s not close to the atmosphere of the NFL or of big-time college football, but it is still football, and there is likely to always be an appetite for it in the U.S. If you’re post-Super Bowl and jonesing for your football fix in Houston, make a visit to Shell Energy Stadium to check out the Gamblers. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mirmow Field 1 Rowe St SE Orangeburg, SC 29115 Claflin Panthers website Mirmow Field website Year Opened: 1948 Capacity: 3,000 The Historic Charm of Mirmow Field The Claflin University baseball team plays its home games at Historic Mirmow Field. It’s an old-fashioned baseball stadium that was constructed in 1948 to house the popularity of the game in Orangeburg, South Carolina. It was said, at the time, that baseball was so popular that “the fans even liked the umpire.” Mirmow would be home to the semi-pro Orangeburg Braves, American Legion Post 4, and high school baseball. It was also the spring training home of the Binghamton Triplets of the Eastern League during its first few years. There have been a handful of young players who wound up in the major leagues that honed their skills here: Herm Winningham, Mookie Wilson, Nate Snell, Bill Spiers, and the late Mark Sharpeson, for whom a plaque is dedicated in his memory near the entrance. Surprisingly, it would be home to minor league baseball for only two years–a quarter of a century after its construction. The Orangeburg Cardinals–managed by Jimmy Piersall and featuring future WWE legend Randy “Macho Man Savage” Poffo—operated as a co-op team in the Western Carolinas League in 1973 before the Dodgers took over operations the following year. The stadium was showing wear and tear even when the minor leagues were in town, but it received a major upgrade when the motion picture Major League: Back to the Minors was filmed for spring training scenes in 1996. A new roof, a fresh coat of paint, and plenty of lush palmetto trees were planted near the entrance to give the historic venue a much-needed update. The Panthers took the field at Mirmow when the HCBU resurrected the sport in 1986, and is one of only a handful of programs that play in an actual ballpark in its conference. Its location is about a mile and a half from campus and is used as a recruitment tool for student-athletes who want to play in a baseball stadium. There have been renovations to Mirmow Field since our visit. The details are in this link that celebrated the ballpark's 75th anniversary in 2023. The Garden City River Ducks will call the stadium home for the 2026 season. The Palmetto State League is a summer collegiate loop that is part of the Players League. They will play from June to July, with playoffs in August. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand in the form of a wooden shelter on the first base side of the stadium, offering a small selection of items that include hot dogs, popcorn, soda pop, and nachos. The standout here might be the fried bologna sandwich for a mere three bucks. It makes for a nice change of pace while watching the game from the stands. If you are looking for a cold beer at the game, you are out of luck; alcohol is not permitted inside the facility. Atmosphere 3 They don’t build ballparks like Mirmow anymore, and it’s a relic of its time when semi-pro and professional baseball flourished in almost every nook and cranny of this nation. It covers all the bases of its era with a wooden grandstand, main entrance lobby, and wooden bleacher seating. There is a small press box on the top of the roof that looks as if it can squeeze in four people at the most. There are a few oddities with the playing field in that its absence of a warning track in the outfield, while this may not be a concern for the patron in their seat, it can be for a running outfielder attempting to catch a ball near the thick, cinder block wall; there is also no padding. There is a two-foot fence down the first and third baselines separating the playing field from the seating area. A few of the seats feature back support, but a few wooden seats have warped through almost 80 years of service. The twisted, mangled seat adds a bizarre character to the old place, and a typical crowd falls anywhere around 100 people per game for Panthers games. In other words, there are plenty more areas to grab a seat and watch a game. The mood here for games is to sit back and relax; most fans in the seats are friends or family members, and you can hear the chatter from each dugout. Depending on the time of the day, you might get to see the passing train behind the outfield walls pass by for a bonus. Neighborhood 3 Orangeburg is located about halfway between Columbia and Charleston and offers a small, quaint downtown setting. There is a multitude of chain restaurants near the interstate exit, but the city offers a few local establishments. If you are looking for a local spin on barbecue, stop by Duke’s for pulled pork and fried chicken. The Original House of Pizza offers its style of pizzas, plus salads and chicken wings. Biddie’s Banquet is known for its fried chicken, and Mama’s Kountry Kooking offers down-home style cuisine at affordable pricing. There are a few areas to visit in town, including Edisto Memorial Gardens, I.P. Stanback Museum, and Planetarium, and a short drive away is Santee State Park. Orangeburg is about 40 miles away from Columbia and 75 miles from the always-popular Charleston. Fans 2 Attendance for Claflin games is in the hundreds, but with this being the case, it is still a rare treat to watch college ball at this level inside an actual baseball stadium; many of the Panthers’ opponents play on small college fields. Average crowds for games are around the low 100 mark, but can reach 300 for certain games late in the season. One should expect a very laid-back contest with a college faithful rooting on the home team, not much different from many other smaller college programs. Access 4 Mirmow Field is located 6 miles south of the Orangeburg exit of I-20. The ballpark offers plenty of free parking in the lot that surrounds it. There is one main entrance into the field and plenty of seating underneath the roof of the grandstand. Some seats should be avoided, and one has the opportunity to pick the seat that fits them the best. Return on Investment 3 There are no admission fees for baseball games, and concession prices are around $2 to $3. Making a stop for the Claflin University game might be for the most ardent ballpark traveler, but these types of facilities are a rare breed and, regardless of their condition, should be appreciated for their historic charm. Extras 3 Palmetto trees surround the ballpark, adding a flavorful South Carolina charm to its exterior. Another star for the train that passes by a few yards behind the outfield wall, to the discerning eye, it looks as if it hovers slightly. A third and final star is for the ballpark still to be used for baseball (Claflin, American Legion Post 4, and Orangeburg High School). Final Thoughts Mirmow Field might be for the divine ballpark traveler or the history buff who enjoys older buildings. It is a fun place to explore and watch a game, even if its based days are behind when fans would fill up every seat. There could be a bit more done to improve the warped bleachers, and one could imagine what a summer collegiate league could do to promote the stadium. Collegiate and legion ball still prosper, and one can get a good 9-innings for most of the year if they desire. We should be thankful that a place like Mirmow Field is still in existence. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Image by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey Ted Turner brought the instincts of a fan into the boardroom, and in doing so he rewired how sports were owned, packaged and consumed. His approach fused ownership with promotion: teams were not just assets but theatrical platforms to amplify competition, cement local identity and build national audiences. This mindset guided his moves from the Atlanta cityscape to living rooms across the country. Ownership of Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, and WCW Atlanta Braves (1976-1996): Turner made the Braves a national brand by turning team telecasts into signature programming for his superstation, helping propel the club through six division titles, four pennants, and World Series championship in 1995. Atlanta Hawks (1977-1996): Turner purchased the struggling NBA team and kept them in town and saw them make 15 playoff appearances. World Championship Wrestling (founded 1988 after buying Jim Crockett Promotions): Turner built WCW into a major televised wrestling rival to the WWF, fueling the explosive, ratings-driven “Monday Night Wars". Revolutionizing How Sports Reached Fans Turner’s superstation concept, sending a local Atlanta station via satellite to cable systems nationwide, made regional games nationally visible and created continuous sports programming beyond the stadium calendar. By using TBS and later TNT as distribution engines, he expanded exposure and revenue for franchises, helping transform franchises from local institutions into national brands and altering how leagues and broadcasters negotiated rights. Sports Entertainment as Spectacle Turner treated sports as programming that could educate, unify and entertain. He pushed production values, promoted marquee matchups and accepted (even courted) spectacle—most visibly with the WCW, where television-first thinking blurred sport and theater and lifted television wrestling into a ratings juggernaut for years. That era accelerated creative, financial and promotional strategies later adopted across televised sports and entertainment. His hands-on style and publicity stunts sometimes provoked controversy (including a brief, halted episode when he managed a Braves game himself in 1977), but his readiness to spend, experiment and promote left concrete gains: a championship, packed broadcasts, and a sense that a local team could matter nationally. He later sold many assets into larger media structures, but the models he proved ,superstations, 24/7 sports windows, and high-profile cross-promotion endured. Lasting impact Turner’s legacy in sports is structural and cultural. Structurally, he helped create distribution and economic frameworks that made national fandom common; culturally, he showed that ownership can be loud, performative and intimate with fans. Whether through the Braves rise, the Hawks and WCW’s national moments, or the constant presence of sports on cable, his imprint persists in how games are presented, monetized and felt by millions. May 6, 2026 marks the end of a singular chapter in sports-media history: a proprietor who loved the game out loud and who changed where and how fans watched.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Delaware Softball Diamond 605 S College Ave Newark, DE 19716 Delaware Blue Hens website Delaware Softball Diamond website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 750 Blue Hen Softball The University of Delaware (UD) is the largest in Delaware and is located in the city of Newark (that's new-ARK, not NEW-urk like in New Jersey). The Delaware athletic teams are known as the Blue Hens, after the official state bird of Delaware, and compete at the Division I level. The Blue Hens' softball program plays their home games on campus at Delaware Softball Diamond, located in a complex adjacent to the school's field hockey stadium and near most of the other venues. The Delaware Softball Diamond was renovated in 2025 to add a turf field, restrooms, concessions, and lights, greatly improving the fan experience. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand located between Delaware Softball Diamond and Rullo Stadium (the home of Delaware field hockey) that serves both facilities. The menu here is pretty basic. Hot dogs and nachos are the only real meal options, selling for $5 each, while popcorn ($5), cotton candy ($5), soft pretzels ($3), candy ($4), and ice cream ($3-$4) round out your meal options. To drink, a 20-ounce water bottle sells for $4, a one-liter water bottle for $6, and soda and Gatorade for $5. Atmosphere 4 A Delaware softball game has an impressive atmosphere. There are several sections of seats behind home plate that provide an excellent and unobstructed view of the action, with a large scoreboard in right field showing detailed team and player information and other graphics. A crowing blue hen sound plays after every Delaware run in homage to the nickname. There are also trivia contests, music, and other activities during breaks in the action to keep fans entertained, although not as many interactive activities as you would see at some venues. Neighborhood 3 Newark is a typical East Coast college town. Your best option is to head downtown to Main Street, which offers numerous options, including Grotto Pizza and the Deer Park Tavern. You can also head towards Christiana Mall or check out The Border Café, known for its Tex-Mex food and large “EAT” sign. Fans will also want to check out the UDairy Creamery, which makes ice cream right on campus and is located a short walk from the softball stadium. Although their ice cream is not sold at softball games like it is at Delaware basketball games at the Bob Carpenter Center, it is incredibly easy to visit before or after a game, and you do not even need to move your car. Fans 4 Delaware softball will draw a few hundred fans to a typical home game, which doesn't seem like much until you consider that the capacity of the stadium is only 750. This means that the bleachers will be about half full for a typical home game, impressive for this part of the country, which often sees swaths of empty seats. The fans are loud, knowledgeable, and passionate about their Blue Hens. This is not just a friends and family crowd as you see at many northeastern venues, either - many locals, Blue Hens fans, alumni, and even youth softball players show up to cheer on Delaware. Access 3 The University of Delaware campus is conveniently located right off Interstate 95. If coming from the north, take the last exit in Delaware, and the campus will be only a few blocks away. If coming from the south, you are better off getting off at the last exit in Maryland and driving a couple of miles on local roads to avoid the tolls - this will only add about a minute to the drive and will save you $5 each way. Once on campus, parking can get tricky depending on what else is going on on campus that day. There is a lot next to the softball field, but it also serves the baseball field and several others, so depending on Delaware's athletic schedule, there is a good chance it will be full by the time you get there. If that is the case, you can park by the Bob Carpenter Center and walk a short distance. Signage indicates that you have to pay by app to park in the Carpenter Center lot, and it will cost you a couple of dollars an hour. Once you are in the complex, restrooms are available by the concession stand in between the softball field and Rullo Stadium. They are of a sufficient size for the crowds, even if there is an event going on at Rullo Stadium as well. Return on Investment 4 Single-game tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 3-12. Concessions are also quite affordable. However, the cost to park, which is really unnecessary given the size of the lot relative to demand, brings this score down a notch. Extras 2 Be sure to take advantage of the promotions and giveaways the Blue Hens offer throughout the season. From Blue Hen Bingo to Flashback Friday and more, something is going on at almost every home game. There will also be sponsors lining the walkway to the field, giving away promotional items. The crow of the Blue Hen after every Delaware run is also worthy of an extra here. Final Thoughts The Delaware Softball Diamond is one of the nicest softball facilities in the northeast. With an excellent fan experience and great crowds, a Blue Hens softball game is well worth checking out.

Image Courtesy of the Predators Initial work has started on a multi‑year renovation of Bridgestone Arena aimed at transforming the venue into a “best‑in‑class destination.” The first phase focuses on improving connectivity throughout the building that hosts the NHL’s Nashville Predators, with visible guest‑facing upgrades and behind‑the‑scenes mechanical work planned over the coming years. What’s happening now Early activity this summer will lay the foundations for larger changes to come. The south entrance on Demonbreun Street will be upgraded with new escalators to provide easier access to all four public levels. The existing main‑concourse staircase — which currently serves the main concourse, Gary Force Acura Club Level, and Bud Light Upper Level — will be removed and replaced with a new circulation system that connects fans directly to the arena’s luxury suites. Meanwhile, the box office at the Nissan SoBro Entrance is being expanded as part of preparations for future work. That expansion is expected to improve customer service immediately and serve an important role when larger renovations begin next summer. Image Courtesy of the Predators Offseason schedule and major mechanical work To avoid disrupting the Predators’ schedule, the renovation program is planned to take place during offseason summers: 2027, 2028, and 2029. The most visible changes are slated to begin in 2027, while current months are focused on preparing the facility for that next stage. Critical mechanical upgrades that require offseason access are also included. In 2027, the arena’s ice plant control system will be modernized as the first phase of a three‑year initiative to replace and upgrade the ice plant infrastructure. A full ice floor replacement is planned for 2028. Image Courtesy of the Predators Leadership and fan involvement Kyle Clayton, chief strategy officer for the Predators and Bridgestone Arena, said the organization is “excited to be starting this process this summer by getting the arena ready for its next stage.” He described the coming three‑to‑four‑year journey as an opportunity to create a top‑tier venue “for patrons, players and performers,” and invited fans to share ideas and input so they can be part of the project. What to expect Short term: improved access at the south entrance, expanded box office, and preparatory site work. 2027: visible guest upgrades begin; ice plant control system modernization starts. 2028: full ice floor replacement and continued guest‑facing renovations. 2029: final offseason work to complete the multi‑year transformation. The phased approach aims to balance significant upgrades with uninterrupted game and event schedules, while addressing both customer experience and essential facility systems.

Photos by Jordan Fallconer, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Canada Life Centre 300 Portage Ave Winnipeg, MB R3C 5S4, Canada Manitoba Moose website Canada Life Centre website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 15,294 MTS Centre AHL Style The return of the Manitoba Moose to Winnipeg may not have been as heralded as the return of their parent club, the Winnipeg Jets, but is has been very warmly received. With the return of the NHL to Winnipeg, a lot of families have been squeezed out of the MTS Centre. The Moose provide a family-friendly, affordable and accessible hockey option. The Moose use only the lower bowl of the MTS Centre. Tickets are $20 or $25 with lots of mini-pack options. Utilizing MTS Centres lower bowl with a capacity of 8,260 the Moose have consistently drawn between 5,000 – 7,000 fans per game with an average approaching 7,000 per game. Mini-pack games see larger crowds and the popular New Year’s Eve game is likely to be a complete sell-out. The Moose will actually open the upper bowl for the New Year’s Eve game this month. Ticket sales are already over 10,000 for the late afternoon game. Fans heading to the game should not expect a minor-league experience. The in-game production is the same as the Jets – a benefit of sharing the arena. All the sound, lights, effects and promotions are available to and used by the Moose. The Moose use the MTS Centre’s new HD scoreboard and LED power boards throughout the game. In game promotions and giveaways appeal to families and there are ample opportunities for kids to see themselves on the scoreboard’s large HD screens. Fans can watch for themselves on the Fan Cam, the Flex Cam or the Kiss Cam. These three popular scoreboard features give folks the chance to have some fun. Attending a Moose game is inexpensive and many families have jumped at the chance to get the whole family to a professional hockey game in Winnipeg. The atmosphere in the MTS Centre is definitely family friendly and there are many kids in attendance so this review will reflect and focus on this. Note: In May, 2017 MTS Centre’s name changed to Bell MTS Place as a result of Bell’s acquisition of MTS. In 2021, the arena’s name changed from Bell MTS Place to Canada Life Centre. Food & Beverage 5 Once inside MTS Centre for the game, there are many options for those looking to grab some food and beverages. Food options range from regular arena fare (burgers, dogs, pretzels, pizza, fries, etc.) at several locations around the concourse to favourites like Pizza Pizza, Tim Hortons, Moxies, and Local 204 which features local products like Granny’s poultry products. New this year is the Wrap Around, which features wraps for $13 (including beverage). Fans can choose from pork souvlaki, chicken shawarma or falafel and fill their wrap with a variety of fixings. Options abound at MTS Centre and even the hungriest of fans will be able to fill up on good quality food. From carved beef, pulled pork, and poutine to the usual fare of burgers, dogs, smokies, and fries there are many options for even the hungriest of fans. If you are really hungry, try the Jumbo Jet Dog – an MTS Centre feature and fan favorite. The Jumbo Jet Dog is a very large hot dog that will run you $9.50 but will fill you up. You may want to share this one with a friend or the whole family! It is also available in a combo for $13.50. In addition to the regular toppings, additional toppings available are what make this a monster. Bacon bits, pierogie pieces, chili or nacho cheese are available for an extra $1.50 each. Try the pierogie pieces and if you are not worried about spilling on your jersey, go for the nacho cheese and chili! Most concessions will run you about $10 – $15 for an “arena meal.” Beverage prices range from $5 for bottled water, $5.50 for a bottled pop (fountain drinks are $5.25 and $5.75) while beer is $8.50 for a regular draft (12 oz) and $9.50 for a large draft (17 oz). Concession information is available on the MTS Centre website where you can open a document with maps of both concourses that details the concessions available. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at MTS Centre during a Moose game is family friendly. Parents should feel comfortable bringing their kids to the MTS Centre to see the Moose play. The Moose cater to families and provide enough entertainment to occupy the little ones’ attention. While this is not the same atmosphere that one experiences at a Jets game, the MTS Centre fans are still knowledgeable and inviting. Fans cheer loud and proud and the kids get right into it! Neighborhood 3 While options abound for the pre-gamers, the options for families are not as plentiful. MTS Centre’s central downtown location does make for easy access. Traffic before and after a game is never really an issue as there are many routes in and out of the downtown area. Family-friendly pre-game meal options are not as plentiful in the immediate area next to MTS Centre. Boston Pizza Cityplace and the food court at Cityplace provide the best options as they are close and the building also has a parkade and is attached to the MTS Centre. Other options might include dinner at the Forks Market before heading over to the game, Carbone Coal Fired Pizza, Ichi Ban Japanese Steakhouse (a more pricey option), Mitzi’s for their famous chicken fingers, or fast food options such as Subway and A&W. Families should consider dinner at home first or along the way to the MTS Centre rather than planning a stop in the vicinity. Fans 4 Moose fans are active and engaged in the game. Fans can be heard reacting to penalty calls, chanting the opposition goalie’s name and, of course, cheering on their team as loudly as they can. Mick E. Moose is always firing up a “Go! Moose! Go!” chant and fans are willing to join in. Fans are knowledgeable about their home team. The fans at MTS Centre create a one of a kind atmosphere making the overall experience for families a positive one. Fans will be decked out in their Moose jerseys and there will be lots in their Jets jerseys as well. Many fans wear their Moose gear from before the Moose left Winnipeg so don’t be confused by the different color schemed jerseys. If you are a fan who likes to cheer and get involved, grab some seats close to ice level or in the first row. The last rows of the 100 and 200 levels offer great views and there is nobody behind you if you want to stand and stretch your legs. Fans who want to socialize may find the Budweiser King Club, which includes its own bar area and places to stand and watch the game. Access 5 Access to MTS Centre is easy. Situated on Winnipeg’s famous Portage Avenue between Donald and Hargraeve, the MTS Centre is easy to get to and easy to get home from after a game as well. It’s a remarkable change for anyone who ever saw a game at the old Winnipeg Arena. One need not leave early from the game to beat the traffic. Fans can stick around to the last whistle and enjoy every moment of the game. MTS Centre is connected to Winnipeg’s extensive downtown indoor walkway system so fans can park, leave jackets in the car and wear only their jerseys to the game while walking indoors. Return on Investment 5 Prices at MTS Centre are what one would expect for an NHL arena. Families looking for AHL prices won’t find them here. Fans will pay more on site for food than elsewhere so a pre-game visit to your family’s restaurant of choice is a good option. The overall return on investment is excellent, however, due to the low cost of tickets. An evening at the game for two with food, beverage and parking can be under $100. A family of four can get great seats for $80. Add parking ($5 – $10) and some snacks and a family can have a night out for around $120 or less. The Moose have filled a void in the Winnipeg hockey market. With the return of the Jets it has been difficult and expensive for families to get tickets. The Moose provide an option that is both affordable and accessible as tickets are readily available. Extras 3 There are several bonus points at MTS Centre during a Moose game. The facility itself is well thought out. Now entering its second decade, the building looks remarkably new thanks to constant renovations and additions. The views are good no matter where you sit. The new large HD scoreboard scores bonus points for MTS Centre as well. It is easy to see from anywhere in the arena bowl. Be sure to get to your seat early enough to watch the Moose game day production team’s build up to puck drop. From game intro videos and highlights the features prior to the game are worth watching – especially on the large HD screens. The biggest bonus that MTS Centre provides fans is the family-friendly atmosphere during Moose games. There are plenty of opportunities for the kids to see themselves on the scoreboard and even to interact with Mick E. Moose, the team’s mascot. Fans will also note that there are often players available for autographs after the game. At a recent game, the entire team was available after for autographs and the giveaway included a team puzzle that fans could get signed.

Photos by Eric Hasman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Grossinger Motors Arena 101 S Madison St Bloomington, IL 61701 Map It Bloomington Bison website Grossinger Motors Arena website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 6,000 ECHL Bloomington Bison Grossinger Motors Arena (formerly U.S. Cellular Coliseum and simply the Coliseum) is an arena in downtown Bloomington, Illinois. It is on the southwest corner of Madison Street (US-51) and Front Street. The arena opened to the public on April 1, 2006. Its seating capacity is approximately 6,000 for hockey and indoor football games and 7,000+ for concerts. The arena has 800 club seats, 24 luxury suites, and a two-party suite. Grossinger Motors Arena has been the home venue for several hockey, indoor football, and basketball teams. Home hockey teams included Bloomington Prairie Thunder (UHL/IHL/CHL affiliations from 2006-2011), Bloomington Blaze (CHL from 2011-2013), Bloomington Thunder (SPHL from 2013-2014), and the Central Illinois Flying Aces (USHL from 2014 – 2019). Home football teams were Bloomington Extreme (UIF/IFL from 2006 - 2012) and Bloomington Edge (CIFL/XLIFL/CIF/IFL affiliations from 2012-2018). Home basketball teams were Central Illinois Drive (MPBA 2011-2012 ) and Bloomington Flex (MBPA from 2012-2015). Grossinger Motors Arena currently hosts the Illinois State Redbird Hockey Club and the new ECHL hockey team, the Bloomington Bison. Food & Beverage 3 The food selection is pretty good here. They have the classics: chicken strips, bratwurst, hot dogs, and pizza. There are hamburgers (a ½ pound for $15 and “Bloomington Meats Burger" $10), BBQ Sandwich, BBQ nachos , Smoked wings, and Mac & Cheese. For vegans/vegetarians, they sell “Beyond Chicken Strips". The arena carries Pepsi products. Bottled soda or Gatorade is $4. A large fountain soda is $6, and a small fountain soda is $4. Bottle water is $4. They also have kids' juice boxes for $2. There is a sweets stand that has sundaes, root beer floats, Dippin’ Dots / soft serve ice cream, soft pretzels/nachos, churro bites, brownies, candy, potato chips and cookies. Popcorn comes in a large bag. Note on select days; the popcorn is free. There are full bar service stands that have mixed drinks. Domestic Budweiser and Miller/Coors products, a can (16 oz.). Blue Moon and Modelo. There are a couple of craft beers here, Bison Blonde Ale and Keg Grove Holey Jeans. They do not have any wine in the arena (strange), but they do have High Noon hard seltzers. The lines can get long, and the concourses are narrow, so it gets crowded. I suggest that you wait until the game starts before you get in line. Atmosphere 2 The Bloomington Bison does not offer much time out or between-period events. Of course, there is a t-shirt throw. The lobby is kind of cramped. The box office area has about five windows, and you can get paper tickets there. The arena has one level of seating on three (3) sides of the ice (like a horseshoe) and suite seating up above that requires a separate entrance. The suites provide a very nice view of the arena. The video board is located on the open end of the arena and shows the usual stuff: scores, some stats, and the game. There is no overhanging scoreboard. Abe, a bison, is the official mascot of the team and is only available for photos/autographs as he makes his way to a seating area to do a promotion. There are a couple of concession tables offering a good selection collection of team gear that includes hats, t-shirts, and both home and away jerseys. And it would not be a hockey game without the obligatory chuck-a-puck. Neighborhood 2 The Grossinger Motors Arena is about 2 miles from Illinois State University and about 1 mile from Illinois Wesleyan University. In addition, the arena is in downtown Bloomington, which is the County Hub. The Courthouse and other municipal building areas are within blocks of the arena. Approximately two blocks away, there is the McLean County Museum of History. The museum has different theme rooms such as farming, Abraham Lincoln, jobs in Central Illinois, and even a little kids' area to play as if they were on a farm. There is residential housing a couple of blocks to the west of the arena. There are not many bars/restaurants within a ½ mile of the arena. However, one place is Anju Above (Asian Fusion), which is an upbeat tapas joint with farm-to-table pizza, sushi, Korean pork buns & more. My favorite place to go is a few miles from the arena, the Pub II, a college bar and restaurant which is known for its famous fried cheeseballs. This is a burger/sandwich place. The burgers/patty melts are very good, as is the pork tenderloin sandwich. There are plenty of TVs here showing sporting events. Approximately 9 miles away is the Corn Crib, home of the Prospect Baseball Leagues’ Normal CornBelters. Fans 2 The average crowd for this new team is around 2,000 to 3,000 per game. The people going to Bison games are mostly families. However, this could be different on “309” nights, which have cheaper beer and some food items. For a new ECHL team, the Bison have a lot of good promotions throughout the season. On the evening of this review, the crowd seemed to be there for a night out; they weren’t into the game. However, being the first hockey game there in years could be the reason. Access 4 It is easy to get to the arena. It is about 8 miles off the intersection of Interstate 55 and Business 51. In addition, it can be accessed off Interstate 74 and Business 51. Lastly, it is a few miles from S Business 51 and Route 39. There is plenty of parking at the arena. The arena-sponsored lots cost $20. However, if you get there early enough, you should be able to find street parking for nothing. I didn’t notice any public transportation in the area, but there is Uber/lift availability. Like almost every arena/stadium these days, guests will be allowed to carry in one (1) clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that does not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” or one (1) one-gallon clear plastic bag. In addition to a clear plastic bag each guest will be allowed to carry in one (1) small clutch that does not exceed 4.5” x 6.5”. Diaper bags (with a child three and under) and bags carrying medically necessary items will be allowed after a visual inspection inside the bag is completed by security. Guests who have bags larger than this size will be asked to return them to their vehicle or discard them. There are plenty of staff members who can be found to answer any questions that may be on your mind. Return on Investment 3 Three price points for tickets for Bison games are a bit pricey at $20 - $32. In addition, there are “all-inclusive" seats for $75. The Bison do have a “family pack” option, too (4 tickets, $10 in merchandise, and an autographed puck for $79). However, due to the size of the arena, I don’t think there is a bad seat in the house. Of course, you can rent suites too. They have Party Suites and an Ice Level Party Deck. The Ice Deck is set up at ice level, with high-top table seating & stools that come with an All You Can Eat buffet along with an All You Can Drink menu. Extras 2 The team offers varied promotional nights and provides a sense of welcoming to all the fans who attend games. The team has a great logo and team colors, and you can get paper tickets. Final Thoughts This is the first year for the ECHL club (2024-25). Other hockey teams have failed here. I hope this one can make it because the arena is a nice place to see a game, and you could be seeing the stars of tomorrow. Being an ECHL team, some players and coaches may graduate to the AHL and NHL. The prices of concession stands are reasonable, there is a good selection of team merchandise, and they have a great logo.