Photos by Paul Baker., Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 William H. Pitt Center 5151 Park Ave Fairfield, CT 06825 Sacred Heart Pioneers website William Pitt Center website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 2,000 Turning the Tables (and the Court) at the Pitt Center   The William H. Pitt Health and Recreation Center is named for the local real estate executive and philanthropist who donated three million dollars to Sacred Heart University in 1996, a portion of which was used to finance the building of the facility.   The Pitt Center opened in 1997 and is the home to Sacred Heart’s basketball, volleyball, wrestling and fencing teams. Although it’s been the hub of Pioneer athletics for close to three decades, it no longer resembles the facility it was when it opened. In the summer of 2024, the basketball arena underwent a significant renovation. The basketball court was rotated 90 degrees, three video boards and a state-of-the-art broadcast control center were installed, as was a mezzanine for VIP seating and events, a new sound system and lighting.   Basketball has been played at Sacred Heart University since 1965. The Pioneers originally competed in Division Two, where they qualified for 13 NCAA tournaments and won a national title, in 1986. In 1999 Sacred Heart moved up to Division One. They have yet to qualify for a D-1 tournament. The women’s team began competing in 1981. They have played in five D-1 tournaments, most recently in 2024. An empty Pitt Center at court level pregame. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a snack cart in the lobby that serves up a basic menu for visitors to Pioneers basketball games. The cart offers hot dogs, pretzels, and a variety of chips and candy. It will get you through the game if you need a bite to eat during the game. Cans of Pepsi products are sold here, too. Be warned – the line for this cart gets long at halftime. The two kids working the cart move the line as fast as they can, but they can only do so much. There are some vending machines in the room just off the lobby. Bottles of Pepsi products, chips and candy bars can be purchased here if you want to skip the lines at the snack cart.   In addition, the Park Ave. Club is located in the old study hall on the second floor of the Pitt Center. The Park Ave. Club offers a private buffet, adult beverages and access to club seating overlooking the court. Tickets can be purchased for $25 per game.   Atmosphere 3   The gameday atmosphere is where fans who have not visited Sacred Heart in a while will see the biggest changes. Part of the renovations to the arena were three new video boards, two of which are set up on the near side corners, and the other which stretches the length of the far side of the gym. These are put to great use throughout the game with videos, stats, crowd shots and graphics. The Pioneers staff do a nice job integrating these boards into their game day presentation.   The cheerleaders and dance team are on hand performing throughout the game. The Pioneers’ mascot, Big Red, is on hand as well, but does not add much to the atmosphere. There was no pep band in attendance on the day Stadium Journey visited, nor was there much of a turnout from the student body. One can imagine what kind of home court environment the Pitt Center would create if the stands were packed with rowdy Sacred Heart fans.   The sound system is excellent and not overbearing. It’s possible to talk to the people around you without shouting. The PA announcer does his job in a workmanlike fashion. In fact, at times he almost seemed disinterested in the action happening on the court. There are games for fans during play stoppages where fans can shoot for various prizes.   Sacred Heart Dance Team performs at the Pitt Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3   While Fairfield is a really nice place to live (in fact, towns in Fairfield County are regulars on any “Best Places to Live in the United States” list), it’s not exactly what you would consider a destination location. The Sacred Heart campus is located in a residential area, with few lodging or dining options in the immediate vicinity. The Trumbull Mall is located a mile from campus, complete with the usual chain offerings, such as the Cheesecake Factory.   Adjacent to the Sacred Heart campus is the Discovery Museum and Planetarium. This attraction features rotating exhibits and interactive educational displays. Across the street from the Pitt Center is JP’s Diner, a 50s style full-service restaurant which is open on game days.   The Sitting Duck Tavern is a popular local watering hole, and there are numerous options in downtown Bridgeport, located just a few miles away. Visiting fans will find no shortage of lodging or dining options along Route One, the main business thoroughfare in the area, and Interstate 95.   Fans looking for sporting options in the area will find plenty of options nearby. Sacred Heart teams play next door at Campus Field , baseball at Veterans’ Memorial Park  and hockey at the beautiful Martire Family Arena . In addition, Fairfield University is just five miles away, with the Leo Mahoney Arena  hosting the Stags basketball team. The Bridgeport Islanders, the top farm team of the New York Islanders, play downtown at Total Mortgage Arena .   Fans 3   Sacred Heart averaged 1,200 fans per game in the 2024-2025 season. While this figure is a bit below the MAAC average, it represents a marked improvement over their attendance from just a few seasons ago. It would appear at first glance that the renovations to the Pitt Center and the move to the MAAC have had a positive effect on attendance. For comparison, Stadium Journey visited Sacred Heart on a December Sunday during Finals week, which kept students away, but attendance was a solid 822.   You’ll find a mix of local basketball fans and families here at the Pitt Center. The gameday presentation is geared towards families and younger fans in attendance, so this is a place you can feel comfortable bringing the entire family. Even when the students fill the bleachers on the near end of the Pitt Center, it’s a lively, but not an uncomfortable, environment. Sacred Heart trophy display in the Pitt Center lobby. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4   Sacred Heart University is located in suburban Fairfield, Connecticut, a town of 61,500 residents in the southwest corner of the Nutmeg State. The campus is situated in the northeast corner of the city, directly across the street from neighboring Bridgeport. Sacred Heart is easily accessed by either the Merritt Parkway or Interstate 95. Traffic in this part of the state is usually quite heavy, so you may have to allot extra time to arrive at the Pitt Center. Fans using public transportation will be glad to know that the Greater Bridgeport Transit (GBT)  number 4 bus routes from Bridgeport’s busy Amtrak station to a stop right at Sacred Heart’s front entrance on Park Avenue.   The Pitt Center is located on the southwest corner of campus, adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities, including Campus Field . There has been a lot of construction on campus, and parking is at a premium near the athletic facilities. The lots closest to the Pitt Center are reserved, so most fans will park in the South Garage, about a quarter of a mile from the center, and the North Lot, about a half mile from the center. At least the scenery on this attractive suburban campus is worth the walk.   Fans will enter the Pitt Center into a small lobby, where the ticket and merchandise tables are located. Fans will also find the snack cart here, as well as a collection of hardware won by Pioneer teams over the years. Large restrooms, built to handle football-sized crowds, are located off the lobby to the right. The gym will be located straight ahead.   Seating is located along all four sides of the court. Seats on the sidelines consist of individual stadium seats, while baseline sections consist of molded plastic bleachers. In this bandbox of a gym, all seats have excellent views of the action.   Return on Investment 4   Tickets to Pioneer basketball games are reasonably priced, costing $25 for center sections and $15 for baseline sections. Parking is free in the garages and lots around campus, and no item at the snack cart will cost you more than five dollars. If you wish to access the Park Ave. Club, a ticket to this premium space will cost you $25. For a Division One basketball experience, this is a most affordable option for local fans. Big Red sits outside the Pitt Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 2                                                                                                 Banners honoring the success of the school’s basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams hang on the walls of the Pitt Center gymnasium, and there is a nice trophy case packed with mementos won by all the Pioneer teams located in the lobby.   On your way into the Pitt Center, don’t forget to grab a quick photo with the statue of Big Red, who is sitting permanently on a bench just outside the entrance to the facility.   Final Thoughts   The renovations to the basketball arena at the Pitt Center took what was formerly a sleepy, plain gym and turned it into a sleek, modern bandbox of an arena, one that should provide the Pioneers with a significant home court advantage for years to come.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram   @PuckmanRI .

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta 5300 Winder Hwy Braselton, GA 30517 IMSA Petit Le Mans website Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 10,000 10 Hours in Georgia Petit Le Mans has become a cult classic event in the sportscar world. For 10 hours, the best in sportscar racing battle it out in a thrilling multi-class endurance race through the hills of northern Georgia. Nestled an hour north of Atlanta, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta offers some iconic sights and non-stop racing action over four days in the fall. And, being the season finale for multiple IMSA series, the stakes couldn’t be any higher. Packed with fans, this track offers plenty of great viewing areas and camping, helping Petit Le Mans rise quickly as one of the best events of the year for fans. Food & Beverage 3 There aren’t a lot of concession stands at this track; one lies in the outer paddock behind the Michelin Tower. Here you can find burgers ($8.99), grilled chicken sandwiches ($8.99), hot dogs ($6.99), chicken tenders ($9.99), and more standard fare. Fries ($5.99) and drinks (soda, water, beer, and energy drinks) are also offered. Another stand is located in the infield near the Turn 5 area, and various food trucks populate the fan zone midway. Atmosphere 5 The event is like many in IMSA’s endurance schedule – three days of support races, as well as practice sessions for the main event, fill the entire slate at Road Atlanta from sunrise to well past sunset. Fans have access to both paddocks with their event ticket, allowing you to get up close to all the drivers and cars in between track sessions. On Saturday the cars roll out to the front stretch and grid up to their starting positions. Driver intros take place, and fans can walk the grid freely, getting up close to the cars, meeting their favorite drivers, and snagging some free swag from some of the teams. When the race starts, fireworks explode as the roar of engines fills the air. What follows is 10 hours of non-stop race action into the night. When it is all said and done, the season finale podium takes place in the lower paddock. As the cool fall air takes over, the glow of rotors becomes the dominant light source, the smell of campfires wafts through the trees, and the roar of fans heightens the excitement. Taking all the best things that make Sebring 12 Hours a great event and removing the chaos and craziness that dilute its family friendliness, Petit Le Mans easily supplants Sebring as the best party on the IMSA schedule. Just beware of the numerous spiders around the property, in practically every tree and bush. Neighborhood 3 The main downside to Road Atlanta is its location – an hour north of Atlanta proper, this track isn’t near much. Aside from a few small hotels and fast food locations a few miles down the road, Road Atlanta is very much dominated by rolling hills, suburbs, and farmland. A 15-minute drive south gets you to Buford and the big Mall of Georgia, however, where you can find plentiful hotels and restaurants. Also nearby is Chateau Elan resort and golf course for a more high-level resort experience; recreation can also be found outdoors in nearby Lanier. Fans 5 The fans at Petit Le Mans are some of the most diehard in all of sportscar racing. A much more family-friendly atmosphere than Sebring , many here know how to party, but do so in a respectful way that doesn’t cross over into outrageous. The viewing areas and grandstands are always packed in every corner on race day, and many have been camping here at the track for decades during various race weekends. Without a doubt, some of IMSA’s best fans show up to Road Atlanta year after year, and the crowd only grows with each passing season. As with most events, 2024’s race saw a record crowd at Road Atlanta. Access 5 To get to Road Atlanta, Exit 129 off I-85 or Exit 17 off I-985 will both get you to the track in the most direct manner – being located equidistant between these two interstates means getting in and out of the venue is easy. Once at the track parking is plentiful, and the facility also offers a tram that takes fans around the track to various viewing areas. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Petit Le Mans are solidly priced for an IMSA endurance round. Kids 12 and under are free, and two-day tickets start at $95. A single day ticket is $85, while a 4-day pass costs $105 in advance. Parking in the infield in various locations comes at an additional price of $75, while parking in the Corvette corral is available for $85 for the weekend. Considering you get paddock access to all events and free range to all trackside grandstands and viewing areas with your ticket, the value offered at this event is right up there with the best on-track action in IMSA. Camping is also available, starting at $90 for tent camping; motorcycle parking is available for $10. Extras 3 The event includes autograph sessions throughout, for all fans to attend for the various series in attendance, completely included in the price of admission. Being an endurance race also means you get to see night racing, which is somewhat of a novelty. The victory lane podium celebrations for Saturday’s main race have been moved across the track to the support paddock pit lane. Set up in front of the main grandstand for all fans to see, this new locations gives those in attendance a chance to watch the victory ceremonies up close for the first time. Finally, the fan midway offers various sponsor displays and interactive activations that offer plenty of giveaways. Final Thoughts If you want to experience endurance racing at its best, don’t want to stay up for 24 hours, and prefer a more family-friendly atmosphere compared to Sebring , Petit Le Mans is without a doubt the best event for you. Located at an exciting track with great weather in the fall, Road Atlanta always is a must-visit on every race fan’s list.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 ESPN Events Invitational website State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports website Year Opened: 2006 Basketball at Disney World College basketball in-season tournaments are all the rage lately, yet one Central Florida invitational has remained for many years. The ESPN Events Invitational Tournament, hosted yearly at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, has become a staple of the NCAA slate. Featuring teams from around the country, this event features plenty of action for an affordable price in a stellar location. Held inside State Farm Field House, this is a popular stop around the Thanksgiving holiday for fans of participating teams. Food & Beverage 4 There are usually a lot of concession options at Wide World of Sports – inside State Farm Field House itself choices include chicken carnitas salads ($12.99), hot dogs ($6.99), uncrustables ($3.99), and Mickey Pretzels with cheese ($8.49). Drinks include bottled water ($4.99), lemonade cups ($5.99), and soda ($5.99). Additional food items this year include Impossible Bulgogi Quesadillas ($12.99), popcorn chicken ($10.99), nachos ($7.49), candy ($5.99), chips ($4.99), and brownies ($5.49). In addition, popular theme park snacks like pickles in a pouch ($4.49) and Mickey Ice Cream ($5.49) round out the menu. The arena also includes a Wetzel’s Pretzels location, selling their famous hot pretzels in various options, as well as sodas. Atmosphere 3 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports features a lot of exposed metal beams in the architecture, and its curved roof amplifies the noise and lighting inside. The overall aesthetic of nearby facilities, including Champion Stadium, are carried over here as well. The arena has one concourse level, meaning you can walk up or down to your seats easily thanks to the main walking path from the parking lot taking you up to the main concourse level. ESPN logos are all over the facility, and past champion banners are hung above the VIP seating area. Neighborhood 5 The sports complex is located just off Osceola Parkway, literally across the street from the new entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – because of this you’re not far from pretty much everything you need on your trip. For obvious reasons the best place to stay would be at any of the Disney Resorts; guests of the resorts get free bus transportation to and from the arena. The closest hotels, Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation, are two of the park’s lowest priced resorts. For food, anywhere on Disney’s Property is a go-to – Kona Cafe at the Disney Polynesian Resort is a popular stop for sushi and a south seas flavor for dinner, while California Grill at the top of Contemporary Resort is also a popular go-to for a more upscale experience. In addition, popular tourist stops include EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom theme parks. Also, Disney Springs, which is accessible via bus and car, is home to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities for the whole family. Fans 4 The games are played among four teams, meaning you get two games per day/per ticket. Tickets are sold by day, which means if you go to catch both games, you may notice one game is more or less popular than the other, depending on the fans who traveled for each team. While this can lead to some generally sparse attendance at times, the atmosphere is no-less electric. The noise is also amplified inside, so each dunk and three-pointer seem to garner loud cheers regardless of the attendance in the building, and since everyone has made the trip to Disney, you generally have a lot of families who are attending the games, making for a more family-friendly atmosphere than some team’s home games might have. Access 4 Getting to Wide World of Sports is pretty easy, but traffic for certain games can be a pain. Parking is free in all parking lots for this tournament, including right close to the main entrance. In addition, now that the roadways have been re-routed in the area, access to the facility is easy when getting onto the property – there is signage all over Disney’s property leading you to Wide World of Sports, and getting off the main road is easy thanks to the new flyover. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are very affordable, with baseline tickets ranging from $31.55 to $41.80, lower corner seats from $36.70 to $44.35, and sideline lower level tickets from $53 to $57.35. The tournament also offers a 4-pack that provides a 25% discount when you buy four tickets together. Additional hospitality can be purchased; tickets for all-you-can-eat food with two non-alcoholic drinks costs $86, or $123.63 with two alcoholic drinks, including your choice of high-top or couch seating areas at floor level behind the basket. This VIP area behind the baseline at court level gives you what amounts to courtside seating and viewing in your own section, complete with tables, chairs, couches, and several TVs that not only show the game you are watching on the court, but also other games on TV as well. Parking is free for everyone, but fans can purchase premium parking for $50. Extras 4 The facility features a popular picture spot at the main entrance next to the Wide World of Sports globe. There also are numerous sports facilities all throughout the area, including various other events that may be going on, from cheerleading competitions to youth soccer tournaments. TV screens throughout Wide World of Sports are also constantly playing various ESPN channels, fully immersing you in sports. Finally, during the championship game Mickey Mouse makes an appearance in special basketball-themed attire, and the tournament MVP is presented with a framed Disney World basketball jersey as their trophy. Additionally, during several games in the tournament, Mickey Mouse makes a surprise appearance for autographs and photos with fans who want to participate during halftime. Final Thoughts The ESPN Events Invitational is certainly one of the longer running in-season college basketball tournaments, and it’s easy to see why. Since 2006, teams like Notre Dame , FSU , Gonzaga , Memphis , Villanova , FAU , and others have hoisted the Tournament's trophy. Being located in such a family-friendly location, this is an ideal tournament to visit in late November, especially for those fans looking to escape the colder weather up north.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 Indianapolis Motor Speedway website IMSA Weekend website Year Opened: 1909 Capacity: 257,325 IMSA’s Visit to The Brickyard While Indianapolis is synonymous with racing in America, North America’s premier sportscar series hadn’t run there since the early 2010s. While events like the SRO Indy 8 Hours and the SCCA Runoffs have been held here in recent years, IMSA’s return in 2023 was heralded as a return to the promised land. With new infield camping being offered for the first time in the track’s history, options for fans were plentiful for this new race weekend. While the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Series increased the length of its race to 6 hours, 2026 will see the standard two-and-a-half-hour race return to the weekend schedule.   Food & Beverage   3 The standard fare is available throughout the infield thanks to various concession stands. The basics like burgers ($9.50-$10.25), chicken fingers ($12), and pork tenderloin baskets ($12.50) are all available, as are soda ($5-$7), bottled water ($5), and beer ($8.25-$9.25). Fans can also expect a variety of food trucks and independent vendors in the infield Pagoda Plaza.   Atmosphere   4 Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the literal definition of a motorsports mecca in the United States. Every inch of the track oozes with history – this in itself should be enough to elevate the track’s profile. However, thanks to the recent purchase of the facility by Roger Penske, various upgrades and renovations have made the track even better than it was before. A new LED display behind the Pagoda and other smaller displays around the track offer fans a chance to see the action no matter where they are, and renovated bathrooms and common areas are also featured in the latest upgrades as well. The stadium effect of seats on both sides of the track down the front stretch adds to the roar of the engines, and with the addition of the endurance race to the weekend, the feeling in the air is also more electric. IMSA fans love the endurance aspect of sportscar racing, and bringing one to Indy adds to the history of this racetrack.   Neighborhood   3 Speedway, Indiana is a unique setting, as you’ll see both the past and future of the area all within a few blocks. Located literally in the middle of a neighborhood, the IMS facility is massive, rising above the rooftops of nearby homes. Across the street from the southwest corner of the track is Main Street; here various restaurants and shopping destinations mix with newly constructed apartments and several IndyCar race team HQs. Also, on Thursday night before race weekend begins, a fan festival is held here with various race cars on display, driver autographs and Q&A sessions, and live music taking place. In addition, a mile west of the track along Crawfordsville Road are more shopping and dining options. Hotels are plentiful and nearby as well, with downtown Indianapolis just a short drive east, and multiple hotels just west of I-465 and the track.   Fans   4 The fans at Indy are among the most sport-knowledgeable in racing; you would be hard-pressed to find any others in the US who can top this. Many fans have been going to Indy for various races for decades. The pre-race fan walk during this year’s IMSA weekend was packed full of attendees, and infield camping was more prevalent than it was the year before. No doubt, fans showed up in large numbers this year, adding to the promise of future years here.   Access   4 To get to the track you can just follow the signs, literally – there is no shortage of signage on the way to the facility. The nearest highway is I-465, with I-74 meeting up with it just north of the property’s exit. Parking on-site is plentiful both inside and outside the venue, though many of the lots require pre-purchased parking passes. That said, various homes in the area also offer up their driveways for paid parking, as do some of the businesses nearby.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets to IMSA weekend at Indianapolis Motor Speedway are relatively well priced; general admission tickets are incredibly low, starting at $20 for Friday, $50 for Saturday, and $60 for Sunday, with a 3-day general admission ticket costing $120. Reserved seating tickets range from $100 for Friday only in the Hullman Terrace Club to $515 for the full weekend – compared to prices you will see at the Indy 500, this is an absolute steal. Every ticket also includes infield access, as well as access to the paddock and the pre-race fan walk. Parking starts at $10-$25 for Friday and goes up to $25-$75 on weekend days. Camping at the track ranges from $70-$145 outside the track in Lot 2, to $600-$1,500 for various infield Oval Turn 4 spaces.   Extras   4 Several autograph sessions are held throughout the weekend, including all the IMSA WeatherTech Series teams. The track also has several event stores set up throughout the facility, where you can purchase merchandise from the event and the track, as well as from the drivers. Before the main races on Saturday and Sunday, fans can come walk on pit road during the grid walk, as well as watch pit stop demos and meet the drivers and teams before the green flag falls. Finally, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is located onsite in the infield and is open during race days – fans of the sport will no doubt enjoy looking into the past and enjoying the history of the sport of racing.   Final Thoughts Fans still flock to the track no matter what is racing here, and IMSA weekend is incredibly affordable compared to other events. Couple that with the nostalgia factor that Indy injects directly into your soul, and it is hard to skip this now annual stop on the IMSA calendar. Sportscar fans will have plenty to watch throughout the weekend, with no less than four racing series taking to the speedway during the event.

With the FIFA World Cup around the corner, the 2025 Major League Soccer season has been one of great importance and great change.  Huge news arrived in November, with the announcement that the MLS season schedule would be changing to align itself with other international soccer leagues beginning with the 2027-28 season.  Also, the highly controversial MLS Season Pass on AppleTV+ will see the extra subscription fee waived and not require extra payment from those who already subscribe to AppleTV+.   Atlanta United FC once again lead MLS in attendance, averaging over 41,400 fans per game and even welcomed an astounding 65,520 fans for their home opener against CF Montréal.  Philadelphia Union claimed their second Supporters’ Shield with the best record during the regular season.  The MLS playoffs culminated in the MLS Cup Final, played on December 6th, where Inter Miami CF defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida 3-1.  The ageless Lionel Messi of Inter Miami had 29 goals on the season, to lead the league, while Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver had 13 clean sheets on the year. The annual MLS rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where a number of different writers assess the soccer experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment and any extras that the writers experienced.  The stakes are high, with an average grading of 3.88 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. This list is just an amalgamation of a number of opinions, and may not be in agreement for all.  Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets.  How is your list different from ours?  What do we have right?  What do we have wrong? Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2025 Rankings of the Major League Soccer Experiences. 1. Inter&Co Stadium - Orlando City SC - 4.71 Chris Green - Orlando City SC is everything the MLS wants its teams to be: a team with a beautiful stadium in the middle of a downtown district with nearby restaurants, shopping, and public transportation; an incredibly passionate fan base that shows up and sells out games regardless of the team’s record; and a vibrant city that has embraced its growing sports culture – this is the blueprint the league has asked teams to follow from here on out.  Orlando has produced one of the most impressive game day experiences anywhere and continues to do so every game. From the never-ending songs at the wall to the march into the stadium, Inter&Co Stadium has everything you could imagine wanting in a soccer stadium. 2. Providence Park - Portland Timbers - 4.57 Chris Green - “It’s a fantastic place to play. These environments didn’t exist when I played…Portland is among the top of the list of great environments…this is what soccer should be like.” – Robin Fraser  The Portland Timbers game experience is unparalleled in MLS. Without a doubt, this is one of the best experiences any sports fan will have in America, let alone MLS. After recent stadium expansions and enhancements, the transformation of Providence Park from a former baseball field into a top-tier soccer establishment is complete, and the results are breathtaking. A vaulting sideline seating expansion that added multiple levels of seats and concessions for fans provides some of the best views in the stadium, and a new fan store near the main entrance provides fans a perfect place to gear up before matches. Add to that the biggest crowds and the loudest environment in the league, making this a perfect place to watch MLS at its best. 3. Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Atlanta United FC - 4.43 Dave Cottenie - When entering the gates at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for an Atlanta United FC soccer match, one of the items that will catch a fan’s attention is the large banner above the gates that confidently states “Unite & Conquer” in gold lettering on a black background.  This slogan aptly describes the life of the Atlanta United Football Club.  Taking to the pitch for their first season in 2017, Atlanta United has been a runaway success.  They have led Major League Soccer in attendance every season they have played, with the exception of the 2020 Covid 19 season.  They have been dubbed the “Loudest Pitch in MLS” according to Newsweek magazine.  They even won the MLS Cup in just their second season, 2018.  4. BC Place - Vancouver Whitecaps FC - 4.43 Dennis Morrell - The Vancouver Whitecaps needed a plan for an acceptable venue to host MLS matches before a franchise would be awarded. Vancouver fans were satisfied upon learning BC Place, home of the Canadian Football League’s Lions, would be further renovated after the Olympics with completion set for September 2011.  Until it was complete, though, the Whitecaps played most of their inaugural campaign in a makeshift venue on the site of the former Empire Stadium, the longtime home of the NASL Whitecaps from 1974-1983. They closed out play at this site on September 21st with a 3-1 loss to Seattle Sounders FC. On October 2nd of their first season, they opened their new, renovated home with a 1-0 defeat to the hands of their Cascadia rivals, the Portland Timbers.  In terms of history, BC Place served as the Olympic Stadium for the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. It has hosted eight CFL Grey Cup Championship games. 5. TQL Stadium - FC Cincinnati - 4.29 Lloyd Brown - Football Club Cincinnati (FC Cincinnati) has been in existence since 2015. At that time, they played at the USL’s Champions level of competition. They played their home matches at Nippert Stadium at the University of Cincinnati. The team was an immediate success, as the population of Queen City has a large ethnically diverse population, and soccer was their game of choice. By 2019, they had applied for membership at the MLS level. This application was approved, with the requirement that a soccer-specific stadium be built for the team in the first few years of membership in the MLS. The team immediately went to work on getting a venue built. After much discussion of several sites and some trading of property with the local school system work got underway on building a new stadium in the neighborhoods just northwest of downtown Cincinnati. There were still some delays, as the team changed architects, choosing Populous as their new designer.  Finally, the $250 million stadium opened in 2021 as West End Stadium. It offers a soccer-specific stadium with a capacity of 25,513. A majority of those seats are chairback seats with cupholders. The stadium includes 59 suites, a 3,100-person standing area for the supporter groups, and 4,500 premium or club seats. The stadium seats feature the team’s kit colors of blue with the accent color of orange. 6. Lower.com Field - Columbus Crew - 4.29 Marc Viquez - There was a time when the thought of the Columbus Crew relocating elsewhere was a reality, but after a campaign to keep the club in town and a new ownership group, the result would be the $314 million Lower.com Field for the club to call home. The 20,371-seat venue is located in the Arena District next to Huntington Park and a few blocks west of Nationwide Arena.  The stadium offers a field with a hydroponic heater that can raise the field temperature by 20 degrees if needed and water can drain in less than 3 minutes. The Nordecke supporters' section is the steepest and second largest of its kind in the MLS while offering a beer garden on the concourse. 7. Toyota Stadium - FC Dallas - 4.29 Andrew Kulyk - The FC Dallas franchise was already a trendsetter back in the early 2000s, when they designed and built one of the first soccer-specific stadiums in Major League Soccer. The size, configuration, and intimate game day experience became an instant hit. The template has since been emulated across the entire swath of the league, with a building boom continuing in existing and expansion cities.  FC Dallas took it one step further, adding the National Soccer Hall of Fame, which opened in 2018. This is a resplendent museum and interactive series of exhibits, adding a unique dimension to this complex and making it a true destination even on non-game days. Come 2025, and it will be an entire remake and reimagination of Toyota Stadium. Just about the entire stadium is being demolished and remodeled, side by side, and come 2028, a completely new venue will entertain fans and athletes alike, offering new comforts, amenities, and a canopied roof to shelter patrons from the summer sun and much, much more. 8. BMO Field - Toronto FC - 4.14 Dave Cottenie - The landscape of Toronto FC is changing.  The glory days that culminated in Toronto Football Club being the first Major League Soccer team to secure the trifecta in 2017 of the Voyageurs Cup (Canadian Championship), Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup, are gone.  TFC legends Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore and Michael Bradley have all departed as well as coach Greg Vanney.  The rebuild is now on.  After a few stutter steps, Toronto FC hopes to bring the squad back into playoff contention for the 2024 season.  Playing their first match in 2007, Toronto FC has been crucial for the development of Major League Soccer, paving the way for other Canadian squads CF Montreal and Vancouver Whitecaps FC to take to the pitch.  The strong ownership of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, also owners of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Argonauts and Toronto Marlies, has been critical in the continued success of the franchise.  Since its inception, the home of Toronto FC has been BMO Field.  Located at Exhibition Place, on the site of the former home of the Toronto Blue Jays, Exhibition Stadium, the city owned stadium is preparing to be the smallest host of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.  BMO Field was originally built as, and currently retains the moniker of, Canada’s National Soccer Stadium, and has been renovated and expanded numerous times.  It has seen the Grey Cup, MLS Cup and the NHL Centennial Classic and will be expanded temporarily to host its biggest event yet in the World Cup. 9. Sports Illustrated Stadium - New York Red Bulls - 4.14 Richard Smith - Major League Soccer (MLS) started in 1995, and one of the founding teams was the New York/New Jersey MetroStars which played in Giants Stadium. The New York Bulls are the successor to that franchise having been purchased directly by Austrian company Red Bull GmbH, producers of the Red Bull Energy Drink. After briefly being Red Bull New York they changed to the more American style New York Red Bulls name.  The soccer venue opened in 2010 after a lot of political activity and is now the home to the Red Bulls. Located in Harrison, New Jersey, just on the other side of the Passaic River from Newark, Sports Illustrated Stadium seats 25,000 seats and is also owned by Red Bull GmbH.  The stadium has also been home to other events such as the Premier Lacrosse League, local commencements, and many concerts.  In December of 2024, New York Red Bulls and Sports Illustrated Tickets, a fan-first, live event ticketing marketplace, proudly announced a landmark, 13-year partnership. 10. Lumen Field - Seattle Sounders FC - 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The Seattle Sounders FC has been one of the premier clubs in the MLS over the last two decades. They have won two MLS Cups (2016 and 2019), and the Supporters Shield for the best regular season record in 2014. Seattle has two major rivalries with their Pacific Northwest neighbors in the form of the Portland Timbers and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC.  The Sounders have played at their current home since 2009. CenturyLink Field changed its name to Lumen Field in November 2020. This was not the result of a new stadium sponsorship agreement. CenturyLink has rebranded itself as Lumen Technologies. Most stadium signage has been changed to reflect this, but due to the immense cost of changing the name on the roof of the stadium, the CenturyLink name remains in place.  Lumen Field has a capacity of 67,000, but for Sounders matches the capacity typically is limited to the lower bowl and can hold 37,722. Capacity is typically expanded for the rivalry games against the Timbers or Whitecaps or playoff games. 11. Energizer Park - St. Louis City SC - 4.14 Andrew Kulyk - The city of St. Louis has a rich and storied soccer tradition spanning over a century, both at the amateur and professional levels. So it was a no-brainer that as the MLS was rapidly expanding and in search of new markets, it would be St. Louis that would be high on the priority list.  In the early 2010s, plans were put in place for a stadium featuring a hybrid NFL field and soccer pitch, with the primary goal of keeping the NFL St. Louis Rams from relocating. That effort fizzled, and the Rams did indeed move back to their original home in Los Angeles. The focus then became a soccer-specific venue, and a long sought-after site on the western fringes of downtown, adjacent to historic Union Station, was presented to the MLS expansion committee. When the league expanded to 30 teams in 2019, St. Louis was awarded one of the new franchises, aided by a strong presentation with renderings of a gleaming new stadium, and a solid ownership group led by Carolyn Kindle Betz, making this team the first major franchise with a female controlling owner. Energizer Park opened its doors in the spring of 2023, ushering in a new and exciting era in St. Louis sports history. 12. Allianz Field - Minnesota United FC - 4.00 James Hilchen - Opened in 2019 at a cost of $200 million, Allianz Field is a soccer-specific stadium in St. Paul, Minnesota. Home to Minnesota United FC and Minnesota Untied FC 2, the stadium holds a capacity of 19,400.  Though relatively new, Allianz Field has become known as one of the premier soccer stadiums in the country. The stadium has hosted CONCACAF Gold Cup games, a World Cup qualifier, and most recently hosted the 2022 MLS All-Star game. Among the features at Allianz Field are an 88,000 square foot translucent stadium skin, a 360-degree canopy, and a heated playing surface. For cycling purists, there are accommodations for 400 bikes to be parked should you choose to ride to the game. There are also 280 seats for ADA guests and their companions.  13. Children’s Mercy Park - Sporting Kansas City - 4.00 James Hilchen - Children’s Mercy Park is home to both Sporting KC of Major League Soccer and the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League. The stadium opened in 2011 on day that saw Sporting KC and the Chicago Fire play to a 0-0 draw. Over the years, Children’s Mercy Park has won numerous awards. It is also the only venue to host the MLS All-Star Game, the United States Men’s National Team, and the MLS Cup all in the same year. The stadium has also held numerous World Cup qualifiers, Olympic qualifiers, CONCACAF Gold Cups, and international friendlies. 14. Dignity Health Sports Park - Los Angeles Galaxy - 4.00 Andrei Ojeda - The L.A. Galaxy, one of the original 10 teams who began play in 1996, played initially in the storied Rose Bowl and would remain there until 2003. At the site of the 1994 World Cup, crowds at Galaxy games were often sparse. Only the Columbus Crew played in a soccer-specific stadium as other teams often found themselves using NFL stadiums, where oftentimes the venues were practically empty. Upon moving to the StubHub Center in 2003, then known as the Home Depot Center, the Galaxy would move into a much more intimate 27,000-seat stadium. Aside from soccer, the facility also houses a velodrome, a track, and field, and a tennis stadium, located right next to the soccer facility. In Jan 2019, the venue name changed from the StubHub Center to Dignity Health Sports Park. 15. Geodis Park - Nashville SC - 4.00 David Welch - Nashville is quickly becoming one of the up-and-coming sports cities in the country, with the high level of support the Nashville Predators receive, the past successes the Tennessee Titans have experienced, and the Triple-A Nashville Sounds routinely in the top 5 of minor league baseball in attendance annually. The city has also received a lot of support to attract a Major League Baseball expansion franchise, and is beginning to establish itself as a soccer town, with the addition of Nashville SC as part of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2020. Nashville SC is not the city’s first run at professional soccer – dating back to the early 1980s the Nashville Diamonds played in the American Soccer League. Later, the Nashville Metros and Nashville FC competed in various professional soccer leagues from the late 80s throughout the mid-2010s. Nashville SC first came to fruition as a member of the USL Championship level for three seasons, leading to the establishment of an MLS franchise in Nashville for the 2020 season under new ownership.  Initially playing at Nissan Stadium for their first two seasons, the Boys in Gold would move into the soccer specific Geodis Park in time for the 2022 season. As of 2024 the 30,000-seat stadium is the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States or Canada. 16. Q2 Stadium - Austin FC - 3.86 Eric Moreno - In 2018, after the relocation of Columbus Crew SC to Austin proved unsuccessful, Major League Soccer (MLS) announced they would award an expansion franchise to the state capitol of Texas in time for the 2021 season. Construction began on the stadium, located in the North Burnet area of the city, and was completed in time to host Austin FC’s inaugural season.  The home opener took place in June of 2021, and both the team and their home have proven to be an immediate hit with the fans in Austin, routinely reaching capacity for their home games. Q2 Stadium was designed to be sleek, modern, and inclusive, as well as to embody the spirit of Austin and its inhabitants – that mission was accomplished. 17. BMO Stadium - Los Angeles FC - 3.86 Andrei Ojeda - From L.A. to The O.C., southland sports fans will never suffer from a shortage of teams to cheer for. With fans having a choice of two teams to cheer for in each major sport, as of this season, Major League Soccer fans throughout the southland will also have their choice of two teams to cheer for with the addition of the Los Angeles Football Club.  The first MLS game to take place in Southern California would take place at storied Rose Bowl in 1996. The L.A. Galaxy would call The Rose Bowl home until 2003 when they would move to more intimate settings at the Stubhub Center in the city of Carson. Throughout the early stages of the MLS, most teams often found themselves playing home games in front of sparse crowds at NFL venues. BMO Stadium, located on the spot formerly occupied by the Los Angeles Sports Arena, kicks off its inaugural season with a seating capacity of 22,000, all but securing a packed house for every contest. Banc of California Stadium is the first open-air professional sports venue to open in Los Angeles since Dodger Stadium in 1962. 18. Soldier Field - Chicago Fire FC - 3.86 Marc Viquez - Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer has called Soldier Field home since 2020. The team had previously played here from 1998-2005 before relocating to the soccer-specific stadium in the suburb of Bridgeview, 12 miles southwest of Chicago. The move back to Chicago was a surprise at first, but being 1.5 miles from downtown, accessible to superior mass transit, and close to a fan base that has embraced the game has made it a logical choice for the Fire.  Soldier Field is the long-time home of the Chicago Bears of the National Football League and opened on October 9, 1924, as Grant Park Stadium. It was renamed the following year to honor the US soldiers who died in combat during World War I. The stadium features a Neoclassical style with Doric columns rising above the east and west entrances. The stadium went through $632 million renovations between 2002 and 2003 that reduced capacity and modernized the stadium. The exterior would be retained, but the interior would be significantly altered, providing a venue with a unique design. The move would be fruitful as average attendance has risen from 15,848 in 2022 to 24,474 in four seasons. 19. PayPal Park - San Jose Earthquakes - 3.86 Meg Minard - PayPal Park is the home ground of the MLS San Jose Earthquakes.  The soccer-specific venue was known as Avaya Stadium when it opened in 2015. It has gone by its current name (PayPal Park) since the start of the 2021 season.  The city has hosted soccer since 1974 with teams in various leagues.  The Earthquakes started in 1996 as one of the original members of Major League Soccer.  The team has won two MLS Cup titles (2001, 2003) and two Supporters’ Shields (2005, 2012).  The staff and fans make witnessing a match incredibly worthwhile as they are all friendly and helpful and seem pleased you have visited their team and stadium.  One of the better matches to attend is when Los Angeles FC comes to town as there is usually a good contingency of away team visitors which makes the stadium rumble. 20. America First Field - Real Salt Lake - 3.71 Connor Comeau - Opened in 2008, America First Field currently serves as the home of Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer. With a capacity of over 20,000, the stadium has seen many incredible moments and is home to one of the longest sellout streaks in Major League Soccer. And with one of the most loyal and loud fan bases in MLS, it’s no wonder why this stadium is one of the toughest to play in. From the very passionate Supporters Section to the casual fan, this is one of the best stadiums to catch a soccer match. 21. Bank of America Stadium - Charlotte FC - 3.71 David Welch - Charlotte FC has created a match-day atmosphere that is festive, energetic, and reminiscent of traditional European soccer experiences. The passion of the supporters brings it to life, creating an environment any fanbase would be proud of.  The one major drawback is the venue itself. Even with crowds topping 30,000, the sheer scale of Bank of America Stadium can dilute the energy and leave the experience feeling less intimate. The supporters and their traditions do plenty to bridge that gap, but the stadium still feels like a borrowed stage rather than a true home. Still, the ingredients are there: a devoted fan base, the vibrant Uptown setting, and traditions that connect fans to the club’s identity. With those elements in place, Charlotte FC has the right foundation to be one of MLS’s most exciting match-day experiences. 22. Subaru Park - Philadelphia Union - 3.71 Richard Smith - The Philadelphia Union competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Eastern Conference of the league. They began in 2010 as an expansion team. Earlier attempts to bring the MLS to the area failed at Trenton, New Jersey, and at Rowan University (also in New Jersey). The MLS is soccer’s highest level in both the United States and Canada.  Subaru Park opened in 2010 in Chester, PA, and has also been called PPL Park and Talen Energy Stadium. Besides soccer, there have been “Battle of the Blue” football games played here between the University of Delaware and Villanova. The stadium has also hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship, the Major League Lacrosse’s Championship known as the Steinfeld Cup, the ACC Lacrosse Championship, and the NCAA Division I and Division III Women’s Lacrosse Championship, as well as numerous rugby matches and concerts. 23. Stade Saputo - CF Montréal - 3.71 Greg Johnston - Montreal, Quebec was well prepared for a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise when the Impact joined in 2012. Owners Saputo, Inc. completed phase one of Stade Saputo in 2008 in anticipation of an expansion MLS team. In the meantime, the Montreal Impact of the North American Soccer League (NASL) called the then 13,000 seat stadium home. The stadium is located in Parc Olympique, seven miles northeast of downtown. Capacity expanded to 20,801 once the announcement of an MLS club became official in 2010.  The organization has celebrated momentary successes in their brief history. Though they haven’t won an MLS championship, the Impact did win back-to-back Canadian championships in 2013 & 2014, reaching the CONCACAF Finals in the latter year. 24. Gillette Stadium - New England Revolution - 3.43 Paul Baker - The New England Revolution are one of the ten charter members of Major League Soccer. Owned by Robert Kraft and family, who also own the New England Patriots of the National Football League, the team shares their home, Gillette Stadium, with the Patriots. The Revolution actually predate their home venue, having played in Foxboro Stadium for their first six seasons before Gillette Stadium opened in 2002. Throughout the team’s history calls for a soccer-specific stadium have been made, but despite an abundance of rumors popping up over the team’s quarter-century history, no plans have come to fruition. Team owner Robert Kraft has repeatedly stated that he would like to build a soccer-specific stadium in or around Boston.  The Revolution have won the 2007 U.S. Open Cup, the 2008 North American SuperLiga and the 2021 Supporters Shield. The Revs have participated in five MLS Cup finals, most recently in 2014, losing each time. They have the most MLS Cup appearances without winning a title. 25. Shell Energy Stadium - Houston Dynamo FC - 3.43 Eric Moreno - In 2006, the owners of the original Major League Soccer (MLS) San Jose Earthquakes were granted the right to relocate, and they chose the fourth-largest city in the country as their new home. The cosmopolitan Houston, Texas proved to be a perfect fit for the rechristened Houston Dynamo FC. The team experienced immediate success upon their arrival in Space City, winning the MLS Cup in 2006 and 2007.  Situated at the heart of Houston’s vibrant downtown, Shell Energy Stadium was designed by the same firm that was responsible for the famed Emirates Stadium in London, home of Arsenal FC. The facility was recently renovated in 2023 to replace most of the seats and upgrade the LED boards and has proven to be a hit with fans. 26. Audi Field - DC United - 3.43 Gregory Koch - D.C. United is a charter member of Major League Soccer, joining the league for its inaugural 1996 season. For the first two-plus decades of their existence, the Black & Red played in cavernous, run-down RFK Stadium, which also served as a baseball and football stadium at various points in its existence. After many discussions of a new stadium, D.C. United finally got one in 2018, moving into Audi Field, a soccer-specific stadium located on Buzzard Point. This long-awaited home was intended to revitalize the atmosphere at D.C. United games, and for the most part, it has done so. 27. Chase Stadium - Inter Miami CF - 3.43 Lloyd Brown - The 18,000-seat Chase Stadium is designed to serve as an interim home for the team while their permanent home is under design in the Freedom Park development located near Miami International Airport. Soccer icon David Beckham is part of the ownership group and serves as the team’s President of Soccer Operations. He is also the driving force behind the Freedom Park development.  The team reflects Miami’s unique cultural makeup. The official name of the team is Club Internacional de Futbol Miami, as the vast majority of the team’s supporters come from the many Latin communities found in the Miami area. First time attendees to a Miami game could easily feel they are in a stadium in South America. 28. Yankee Stadium - New York City FC - 2.71 Sean MacDonald - New York City Football Club got their start in 2015 as the 20th expansion franchise in MLS. Owned by Premier League club Manchester City and the New York Yankees, the team began to play at Yankee Stadium with the expectation that a soccer-only venue would be constructed somewhere in the five boroughs in the next few years. As the club begins their fourth season, however, there is no sign of that new stadium on the horizon. One proposed location for a new facility, which is actually outside the city proper, will instead be used for the Islanders new arena and no other options are currently being explored. This is bad for both NYCFC and the Yankees. Last season, changes to the baseball schedule forced City to play two home matches elsewhere, Rentschler Field and Citi Field. The constant changes to the turf as the soccer field is laid down and then removed is not good for the long-term health of the infield, although no problems have arisen so far.  So what is it like attending a game at the only baseball stadium in the MLS? As you might expect, it leaves most fans singing the blues. 29. Dick’s Sporting Goods Park - Colorado Rapids - 2.14 Matt Finnigan - When Dick’s Sporting Goods Park opened in 2007, it provided a new, cozy home for the MLS’s Colorado Rapids after having played the first decade of their existence in cavernous NFL Stadiums (Mile High Stadium from 1996-2000 and Empower Field at Mile High from 2001-2006).  DSG Park, as it’s come to be known, promised to be a long-term home for the Rapids, with empty acreage surrounding the facility to be developed into just about anything in the suburb of Commerce City, north of downtown Denver.  The ensuing 16 years have seen that acreage sit mostly empty while the MLS’s expansion boom has brought with it a proliferation of new soccer facilities aimed at providing great fan experiences.  DSG Park now sits at a crossroads.  The City of Commerce City owns DSG Park, leasing it to the Rapids’ ownership group, Kroenke Sports Enterprises (“KSE”), for $1 per year over 25 years.  The City has accused KSE of failing to keep promises to develop the 917 acres appurtenant to the stadium. Help Stadium Journey Out! Missing from our rankings, we haven't visited yet. Snapdragon Stadium - San Diego FC

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Daytona International Speedway 1801 West International Speedway Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32114 HSR Classic 24 Hour Daytona website Daytona International Speedway website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 167,785 Daytona’s Vintage Showcase The HSR Classic 24 Hour at Daytona International Speedway is one of the more unique races in America. It showcases racing history from the past, giving fans a window into the races that have come and gone from the track’s lore. The Classic 24 Hour indeed concludes with 24 hours of racing through the night that is broken up into different hour-long segments, showcasing various time periods and car classes. If you’re a racing history buff, this is no doubt a fantastic race to come to that offers stellar access to the cars and drivers, while providing that throwback feel true sportscar fans yearn for. Food & Beverage   2 There isn’t much to eat at Daytona in the paddock fan zone. Only the Bud Patio is open, offering a limited menu and often running out of even the most basic items like bottled water. Additional food trucks may be present on any given day, but they are not guaranteed. Instead, most fans venture away from the track to the numerous restaurants that populate the main road outside the track. Atmosphere   3 There’s nothing quite like being at a 24-hour endurance race. The feeling is electric as the race begins in the afternoon; as the sun sets, the lights come on, and the look and feel of the race takes on another face – the smell of race fuel, the glow of the brakes in the cold night, the sound of engines roaring lap after lap. The infield campfires grow more numerous and the party picks up only as the night darkens. What makes this race so unique, however, is the relaxed feeling. Unlike the Rolex 24  where everyone is on edge pushing hard for a full day of racing, the HSR Classic 24 Hour is more a celebration of racing history. While podium finishers are awarded trophies and medals, the enjoyment and appreciation of the historic cars that participate is most important. Unfortunately, car counts now are down from years past, in part due to the numerous other events throughout the year that are on offer. Thankfully, this is made up for on Saturday with the various car corrals offered from marquees like Porsche and Mazda. Neighborhood   4 Daytona is a party town from days gone past when tourists flocked to the beaches during the summer months. However, the sun isn’t always so warm in North Florida in January. Nonetheless, the beaches are still just a few miles away from the track. In addition, right across the street from the track sit numerous stores, malls, and restaurants. From Chipotle and Panera to Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse, there are plenty of places to shop and eat at during your stay. Fans   3 The fans at the Classic 24 Hour rival the numbers seen at IMSA’s Roar i n January. While not as numerous as the Rolex 24 or Daytona 500, a no-less impressive crowd turns up to watch racing history take to the track. The fans here range in age from the youngest and newest race fans, to old-timers who were around to see some of the historic cars on track in their heyday.   Access   4 Parking at the Classic 24 Hour is plentiful in the various lots around the infield of the track. For those who would rather take a ride, however, trams are available to shuttle you around the property. You can also wander the facility as you wish, with any ticket granting you access to the various infield viewing areas and paddocks. The big downside here is that the main grandstands are closed off to fans, meaning you are stuck watching from only the infield viewing areas. Return on Investment   5 The HSR Classic 24 Hour is a race to be added to any sportscar fan’s list of must-see events, but tickets for this race weekend can get up there in price. One-day Thursday or Friday only tickets are $50.63, while Saturday-Sunday two-day tickets are $61.88. There is no Saturday or Sunday only ticket option. A Friday-Sunday three-day ticket runs $73.13, while a full weekend four-day pass is $84.38. Camping ranges from $33.75 for tent camping to $281.25 to $365.63 for RV spots. Extras   2 The Classic 24 Hour is home to multiple days of racing action. In addition, all tickets get you into the garage and paddock area at Daytona International Speedway, which features fantastic views of the track and paddock from the rooftop patio decks. Fans can also get a look at team preparations, thanks to the viewing windows in each garage bay. Fans in attendance can look forward to the fan walk before the race starts on Saturday, where you are able to get up close to the cars on pit road, as well as meet some of the drivers on hand. Final Thoughts Taking a trip to Daytona International Speedway for the HSR Classic 24 Hour is a visit worth taking – anyone who is a sportscar race fan should attend. This is a top-level historic event that features great Florida weather, a top-level venue, and incredible machines racing around one of the most historic facilities in all the racing world.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Circuit of the Americas 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd Austin, TX 78617 Austin SpeedTour website Circuit of the Americas website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 120,000 SpeedTour’s Austin Finale As if to cement the stereotype of everything being bigger in Texas, Circuit of the Americas (often called COTA for short) in Austin provides no better example of this. Indeed, the site of the annual US Grand Prix for Formula One is also host to myriad other races throughout the year, including the Vintage Racing World Finals during the Trans Am and SVRA SpeedTour race weekend. Food & Beverage   3 In the infield fans can expect a great little hole-in-the-wall (only in size) cafe in the paddock, featuring a beautiful patio outside surrounded by trees and bushes, giving a great view of the garages and pre-staging area for most of the cars. Here you can find (when it is open) food and beverages to suit your fancy. Chicken tenders and fries are $11.79, as are hamburger baskets, grilled chicken sandwiches, and chicken wrap baskets. On certain days there is also a chef’s featured item, such as homemade meatloaf, beef and broccoli, or chicken primavera for $12. That said, if you are exploring the far reaches of the facility, you may not have as many options available as you have in the main spectator areas, meaning you will have to walk a while or wait patiently for later, should the hunger bug strike. Thankfully this year, however, the track added food trucks in the fan area in the paddock to add some variety. Atmosphere   3 Everything is bigger in Texas. Unfortunately, that does not translate to car counts for SpeedTour weekend as of late. Where more than 50 cars used to take to the track for Trans Am’s TA2 race, no more than 50 cars were present between both Trans Am classes in 2025. The SVRA and IGT car counts were also down in numbers from years past as well. Nonetheless, the track itself is a beautiful facility that lends itself to the fan experience – the main grandstand is even shaded from the harsh Texas sun, thanks to a perfectly-placed roof over part of the seating. SVRA also has SpeedTour Town Center, a large area in the fan zone that includes food trucks, sponsor activations, and even racing simulators, all situated right next to victory lane. Being that the event takes place just a few weeks after the annual F1 United States Grand Prix, there are numerous signs up over the garages for the F1 teams and drivers. However, the big downside is that some of the track feels like a construction zone thanks to the endless disassembly of grandstands and suites from the previous event. By far, the coolest thing here at Circuit of the Americas is the giant tower in the middle of the track. The observation platform in the tower is open to all fans for $20 a person, including an elevator you can ride to view the race from over 200 feet above the action. In addition, the floors in the tower are see-through, giving you the feeling of floating on air – no other track has anything as cool as this. Neighborhood   3 This is a hard topic, as the city of Austin itself (a good 15 to 20-minute drive from Circuit of the Americas itself), is a bustling city of music, incredible food, and youthful energy. It is no secret why F1 picked this city, and why the annual SXSW festival is held here every year. However, as the track is on the extreme outskirts of town, the racing can easily feel a bit detached from the city’s feel. There isn’t much right next to the track, despite the slowly creeping suburban sprawl – hotels are all about 10 minutes away at least, as are any shopping and dining options fans would flock to. Thankfully, the airport is right near the track, providing easy access to your flight in and out of Austin. For great food, one can’t skip Salt Lick or Torchy’s Tacos. Austin is also home to the University of Texas and Zilker Park on Lady Bird Lake, and of course, a stop in Austin isn’t complete without visiting the bats under the Congress Bridge. Finally, for hotels look to Hilton Austin Airport or Holiday Inn Austin Airport, which are two of the better hotels that are close to Circuit of the Americas. Fans   3 That good ol’ Texas comfort can be felt through the fans at the track. Sports fans can be hard to figure out, but Austin’s motorsports enthusiasts are all about the racing on the track. They know the drivers, they know the cars, and they know exactly what is happening, and are eager to cheer on their favorite drivers all weekend long. In addition, they’re generally a kind and considerate bunch, which makes a day at the races at Circuit of the Americas a family-friendly experience. The Trans Am and SVRA race weekend features a crowd of both racing and general automotive enthusiasts, descending upon the track in a celebration of motorsports history. Access   3 Getting to Circuit of the Americas isn’t hard, in that it isn’t hidden away. In actuality you can see it from pretty much everywhere, thanks to its giant light-up tower at night. However, the roads in and out of the track are only one or two lanes, making a big event hard to reach, thanks to the traffic. Thankfully, however, parking is plentiful on-site and in various nearby lots, and there are also numerous fan shuttles to take you from the parking lots to the paddock, as well as to various viewing areas around the circuit. Once at the track getting around is easy, thanks to the various tunnels, pedestrian bridges, and signage pointing you on your way around the venue. Return on Investment   5 Tickets to the Austin SpeedTour Weekend are very affordable – Friday only tickets are just $20, while Saturday or Sunday only passes run $30. A full weekend pass is just $50, while a family two-pack ($70) and four-pack ($120) are also available. Whether you’re a race fan or not will dictate whether you feel the need to visit this new crown jewel of the race circuit. However, you can definitely see why average fans would want to come – the views are spectacular all around the track, the cost of tickets and flights into Austin are generally low, and the city is a great attraction unto itself. Downtown is full of reasons to visit on its own, so adding a world-class racetrack to the mix makes it even better! In addition, Circuit of the Americas features great fan access, with the paddock easy to find and navigate during race weekends. Extras   5 Circuit of the America’s big tower is a modern marvel to behold, but did you know there is also a world-class concert amphitheater at its base? Each year dozens of concerts are held at the track as well.Another unique feature is the bold American color scheme – all around the track’s run-off areas you can see red, white, and blue, plus stars-and-stripes painted designs, making not only for a photogenic track, but one that makes you feel very patriotic as well. Outside the track, a large theme park is being built complete with roller coasters that will thrill fans once it is finished. And finally, Circuit of the Americas also features a go-kart facility behind the main grandstand, meaning fans can now satisfy their own need for speed. Final Thoughts Circuit of the Americas is certainly a gorgeous facility that lends itself to comfortable viewing of some great racing action. Furthermore, placing it next to one of the best up-and-coming cities in America was a genius move. That said, if you want somewhere young and hip to visit that is also home to a quality sports facility, definitely put Circuit of the Americas on your list.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Gaylord Palms Resort 6000 W Osceola Pkwy Kissimmee, FL 34746 NXL World Cup of Paintball website Gaylord Palms Resort website Year Opened: 2015 Paintball’s Florida Finale Thinking of professional sports in Central Florida, paintball may not come to mind first. However, the NXL World Cup features some of the best paintball athletes in the country every year just outside Disney World. Located adjacent to the Gaylord Palms Resort, the NXL World Cup is unique in that parking and access for all five days is free to all fans. Special tickets can be purchased for access to different viewing areas, but free access still gets you up close and personal to the action. Food & Beverage   3 The food and beverage options here are limited, but what is available is solid and won’t break the bank. Food trucks are brought in with various options for guests; from local BBQ and Uno Pizzaria to frozen smoothies and healthy options, you have a variety to pick from. Drinks are also available at several bars around the property, with options that include soda or bottled water ($3), seltzer and beer ($7), and energy drinks ($5). The lines are usually not too long, but unless you have a VIP viewing ticket, you’ll find a lack of places to sit and enjoy your food. Atmosphere   4 For an event that is assembled in what is usually a cow pasture the rest of the year, it really is transformed into an incredible facility. Vendors line the entrance on both sides, selling the latest and greatest paintball gear and merchandise. Special lounges are also there for players and family, as well as vendor VIPs. On the back side of the property, numerous paintball fields are set up in quads that allow fans to get in between them and right up close to the action. Be sure you’re doing your laundry as soon as you go home, however, as there is sure to be some paintball splatter when you’re this close to the matches (don’t worry, it all comes out in the wash). Neighborhood   4 The fact you’re literally across the highway from Walt Disney World and just minutes from all the area hotels, restaurants, attractions, and shopping makes this a solid area to hold this event. Across the street is Gaylord Palms Resort, while down the street is Walt Disney World and all its hotels. Food options are plentiful as one mile away is US-192, which is full of restaurants and shopping. In the opposite direction is International Drive, another place where you can find your choice of restaurants and hotels. Fans   4 The sheer number of fans who show up to this event is staggering. 2025 showcased the largest World Cup turnout yet, with teams and their families from all over arriving to watch the best of the best in paintball take on the competition. Something unique about it all is the sense of camaraderie and family. This is a fierce competition after all, but everyone cheers for each other and respects the healthy competition taking place in front of them. The fans are also very knowledgeable about the sport, and are more than happy to help newcomers understand what is going on. Access   5 Parking is free on site, with $30+ VIP parking available to get you a closer spot to the main entrance. The field is massive and offers plenty of space to park, and signage is easy to see, to direct you where to go next. Once inside a QR code can be scanned by fans to access an event guide, and a facility map is posted to help you get the lay of the land. Return on Investment   5 Access to general admission areas is free to all fans on all five days of the event. Tickets to the grandstand for the pro field start at $15 per day for Thursday and Friday, $20 for Saturday, $25 for Sunday, $55 for three days, and $65 for four days. Standard VIP access starts at $50 and goes up from there to $200 for a four-day pass. Club access ranges from $65 to $260. When factoring in the cost for a family of four to enjoy a day in the Florida sun watching paintball, you’re likely to get away with just paying the bare minimum for food and drinks, as well as for merchandise. Extras   3 The facility features several vendors for kids to keep them entertained during the event, as well as a kids zone. Fans also can get up close to the fields in the back, which is equivalent to courtside seating, for free. Finally, the tournament podium celebration is open to all fans on Sunday to watch the celebrations with all the winning teams. Final Thoughts This may not be on everyone’s radar when looking at Florida sports, but NXL World Cup paintball is definitely a unique event in Orlando. Providing free parking and free general admission access is unique in sports and, given that this event is a yearly occurrence, showcases the fanbase that exists and helps propel the sport forward. No doubt this is a unique competition that the whole family can enjoy, whether you’re a diehard paintball participant or someone who has never watched a single competition.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Copeland Park 1130 Copeland Park Dr La Crosse, WI 54603 Map It La Crosse Loggers website Copeland Park website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 3,550 The Lumber Yard The Lacrosse Loggers celebrated their 20th season in 2022. They play in the prominent summer collegiate baseball league, the Northwoods League. The team plays its home games at Copeland Park, a city-owned park on the Black River, which runs into the Mississippi River, just north of downtown on the Minnesota border. The team won the Northwoods League Championship in 2012. Notable Loggers alumni include Mike Trout, Jordan Pacheco, Eric Thames, Chris Sale, and Matt Scherzer. The Loggers offer a fun, affordable evening out with the focus still mainly baseball, with enough other entertainment for non-baseball fans to enjoy themselves. The UW-La Crosse Eagles (NCAA D3) also play their games at Copeland Park in the spring. Food & Beverage 4 Most concessions are behind the first base seating area in a covered courtyard called the Festival Food Court. Food is on one side; adult beverages are on the other. Tables and chairs are between the two. The food is tasty and priced affordably. Copeland Park Festival Food Court, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Snacks include chips, peanuts, Cracker Jack, and candy ($2 – $2.75). Fried offerings include cheese curds, tater tots, onion rings, and corn dogs, and range in price from $3 to $6.50. Sandwiches consist of Klement’s hot dogs, burgers, bratwurst, and crispy and grilled chicken, and cost $4.25 – $6. Tuesdays are $2 hot dogs, corn dogs, fries, soda, water, and popcorn. Across from the courtyard is a Grab and Go shop selling bottled soda, other soft drinks, packaged snacks, and ice cream (prices range from $2.50 to $4). A Snack Shack is to the left of that, selling Dippin Dots, pretzels, nachos, cotton candy, and other treats. Domestic beers on tap are Miller Lite, Bud Light, and Coors; draft craft beers are Leinenkugel, New Glarus, Hillsboro, and Golden Road. A plethora of canned beers and hard seltzers are for sale. Domestic beers are $4 while craft beers cost $4.50. All the food looks scrumptious. The ice cream cones are very popular on summer evenings. Note: The concession lines can get long. Atmosphere 4 The Loggers provide an excellent game-day experience for fans visiting the stadium. The music is not played between every pitch and is at a pleasant volume. You can talk with those sitting next to you without yelling to be heard. And the music is not played over the announcer speaking, as is done in most Northwoods League stadiums. Harmless fan participative games and contests include a ketchup and mustard race, a beer batter, name the player positions, and name as many MLB teams as you can. For seating, the grandstand consists of sections A – E with four rows of stadium fold-down seats closest to the field, then a walkway. The next four rows are stadium fold-down seats, and the remaining five or six rows are bleachers with backs. The ten ‘upper’ rows in section C, behind home plate in front of the press box, are stadium seats. The seats are of average width, and there is average legroom. A net extends in front of the grandstand and covers the top of it. There’s no fear of getting struck by a foul ball there. Some sections behind the dugouts are net-free for your viewing pleasure. Party decks are down both the first and third baselines. Some seats are in the right field above the outfield wall. The field is artificial turf and dirt. A video scoreboard in left field shows the player at bat’s stats. A line score is provided beneath the video board. The sun sets behind the press box, so the grandstand seats get the shade. It does get dark in the grandstand seats when the sun sets. As the evening progresses, you may want to sit somewhere else or move to see your scorecard if you keep score. Be aware of bugs that sting right through your clothes. Spray yourself with insect repellent before attending a game to help prevent that. You’ll get the bug heebie-jeebies most of the night if you don’t. Neighborhood 3 Copeland Park is just north of the city of La Crosse on the Black River (which flows into the Mississippi River). It is a city park that hosts the Loggers, an Oktoberfest, and has a playground, fishing, basketball courts, a wading pool, and other park amenities. The ballpark is a little less than two miles from the active downtown neighborhood of La Crosse. Plenty of restaurants are within a mile or two of the ballpark. We recommend Bodega Brew Pub downtown, Crooked Pint Ale House, Rosie’s Café (breakfast and lunch), or Fayze’s. For craft brews check out the 608 Brewery, Pearl Street Brewery, or Turtle Stack Brewery. Lodging choices are within one to two miles of Copeland Park; none are within walking distance. The ones south are closer to downtown and are about two miles. Several Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn brands line Copeland Ave and the river. For other things to do while in town, visit the World’s Largest 6-Pack or stroll through Riverside Friendship Gardens. Enjoy a boat ride on the Mississippi River via La Crosse Queen Cruises . Or drive up the Grandad Bluff for scenic views of the town. World’s Largest Six-Pack, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The two closest Northwoods League teams are the Eau Claire Express and the Rochester Honkers (87 and 72 miles, respectively). Fans 3 Loggers’ fans enjoy singing “Roll out the Barrell” in the 7th inning, which fans sing in baseball stadiums throughout Wisconsin. Many fans seem to know one another. Families and kids make up most of the clientele, but you’ll see retirees, grandparents, young adults, and couples in the stands, as well. The 2022 average attendance was 2,180 fans per game, placing the Loggers in the top five attendance-wise in the Northwoods League. Access 3 Copeland Park is just a mile off Interstate 90. The town has a small regional airport with flights to and from Minneapolis/St Paul or Chicago. Bus service to a Loggers game is available from downtown and other parts; Route 6 looks like the best one. However, service after a Saturday or Sunday evening game will be an issue, as service ends around 6 pm. Parking is the biggest concern, with only street parking and just a few noticeable spots for handicapped parking. Plan on hunting for a spot and hoofing it if you don’t get there early. The team thankfully does not have bag and bag size rules. The stadium has a ramp on the first base side to get to the seating area. Clean and decent-sized restrooms are next to the merchandise shop before the food court. Return on Investment 4 Although ticket prices are a buck or two higher than other Northwoods League stadiums, attending a game here is still a worthwhile sports entertainment investment. Single-game tickets cost $8 – $15. All-You-Can–Eat-Seats (plus three alcoholic drinks) run $25 – $28. Military men and women with ID get in free. Food and beer prices are below other Northwoods League venues, especially if you go on a Tuesday. Extras 3 The merchandise shop sells an informative program (including a score sheet) for $1. It has a recap of the previous game, league standings, fun facts, the Loggers schedule, team rosters, and player stats. Showing appreciation to military members by letting them in for free is of special note. Having the music volume at a level where fans can hear their conversations and the music stops when the announcer is talking is something that should be common at ballgames, but it’s not anymore. It’s a bonus at a Loggers game. Final Thoughts The Loggers organization delivers a remarkable evening of baseball. Copeland Park is on the Black River, which flows into the Mississippi River just north of vibrant downtown La Crosse, WI. It’s worth checking out if in town or traveling across the Midwest.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Foley Event Center at Foley Sports Tourism Complex 1001 E Pride Blvd Foley, AL 36535 Sun Belt Volleyball website Foley Events Center at Foley Sports Tourism Complex website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 1,500 Sun Belt Conference at Home in South Alabama Over the last several years, the Alabama Gulf Coast has quietly evolved into the postseason headquarters of the Sun Belt Conference. Just a few miles inland from the sparkling Gulf waters, this area has quickly become the conference’s tournament destination; Foley and the surrounding region now host postseason championships in cross country, basketball, soccer, women’s golf, and volleyball. Since 2020, the Sun Belt Volleyball Tournament has been held at the Foley Sports Tourism Complex Event Center. With Gulf Coast beaches nearby, an amusement park with upscale shopping across the street, outlet shopping nearby, and mild November weather, this tournament offers something unique: a championship setting that doubles as a vacation. Volleyball has been sponsored by the Sun Belt since 1983, and over that time the tourney has been held at sites ranging from Jonesboro, Arkansas (6 times) to Bowling Green, Kentucky (5 times), as well as Little Rock, Arkansas (1 time) and Miami, Florida (3 times). Arkansas State currently leads with the most Sun Belt Conference volleyball titles, with seven. Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Food and Beverage   3 Concessions at the Sun Belt Volleyball Tournament are simple. A single stand located in the main lobby handles all food and drink sales, offering the basics you’d expect at a mid-sized indoor facility, such as hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, chips, candy, and bottled sodas and sports drinks. There’s nothing particularly unique or memorable on the menu, and no alcohol is sold on site. Because of the limited selection, most visitors will find better value and variety by eating before or after the matches. Fortunately, the surrounding beach area has no shortage of options for places to grab a meal.   Atmosphere   4 The tournament is held inside the Foley Event Center, located on the grounds of the Foley Sports Tourism Complex, a state-of-the-art, 520-acre complex that opened in 2016. Set against a distinctive backdrop with the OWA Resort and its rollercoasters and water park just next door, the facility has quickly become one of the Gulf Coast’s premier sports complexes. The venue features 16 soccer fields, a 3,000-seat multi-purpose stadium, and the 90,000-square-foot Event Center, which serves as the home of the Volleyball Tournament. Inside, you’ll find space for 12 interchangeable volleyball and basketball courts, making it a perfect setup for hosting multi-day tournaments and championship events. For the Sun Belt Volleyball Tournament, Foley Event Center goes above and beyond with SBC signage displayed throughout the facility, while outside at the main entrance, you’re greeted by a full lineup of banners representing all 14 conference teams. Upon entering the facility, you walk into a small, carpeted lobby complete with a small concessions table, a brochure stand, and a Sun Belt Conference merch stand. Inside, a single court is used for the tournament, creating an intimate championship environment. Temporary bleachers that seat around 1,500 fans line one side of the court, while the benches occupy the opposite side – there’s no seating behind the teams, which keeps all eyes on the action. To heighten the atmosphere, the remaining space inside Foley Event Center is draped in Sun Belt blue and gold, blocking off the extra courts and directing all attention toward the main floor. The court is also surrounded by Sun Belt team logos, as well as a decent-sized videoboard behind the benches, displaying replays, score updates, and tourism commercials during breaks, including plenty of beach scenes to remind you that you’re in one of the Gulf Coast’s premier destinations. Once play begins, the building comes alive. The low tin ceilings create excellent acoustics, music pumps between sets, and the fans – many of whom travel in from out of state – bring a lively, postseason energy that makes the venue feel bigger than it really is.   Neighborhood   5 You cannot pick a better location to hold a tournament than the Alabama Gulf Coast; this is a true postseason destination. Foley Sports Tourism Complex sits literally in the backyard of OWA Parks & Resorts, one of Alabama’s fastest-growing entertainment districts. Owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Owa means “Big Water” in their language. From the doors of the Event Center, you’re just steps away from roller coasters, arcade games, family rides, restaurants, bars, and live entertainment. Also by late November, downtown Owa transforms into a walkable Christmas village complete with light displays, shopfront decorations, fake snow in the streets, and holiday events. It’s not uncommon to finish a match and spend the evening under holiday lights and fake snow while shopping. In addition, glow-in-the-dark kayak and boat rentals allow visitors to float the lake that surrounds the park, giving families a scenic outdoor option right next to the venue. Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey For more shopping, Tanger Outlets is only a mile away, filled with more than 100 stores, including Rawling’s Superstore, one of only six in the country. But the most unique Foley experience is just down the road at Lambert’s Café, famously known as “Home of the Throwed Rolls”, where servers literally toss fresh, steaming, hot rolls across the room to diners. It’s become a must-stop for people visiting South Alabama. The town of Foley itself adds charm during the holidays; downtown Foley hangs Christmas lights along its streets, adding to the festive tournament atmosphere. And then there’s the biggest draw of all, namely, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, less than 10 miles away. In just 15 minutes, you could be standing on the beach. For additional shopping and nightlife, The Wharf in Orange Beach is about 20 minutes away – a large entertainment district with restaurants, boutiques, outdoor concerts, marina views, and one of the Gulf Coast’s most impressive Christmas light displays. The Wharf also features a Ferris wheel, specialty shops, and seasonal festivals, making it worth the trip, especially at night to see the Christmas lights. Hotels are abundant and vary from budget to upscale, and because this is the offseason for beach tourism, prices are noticeably lower than summer rates. Families can stay close to the venue in Foley or choose from upscale condos and beachfront hotels lining Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Or, for those who prefer the outdoors, Gulf State Park, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, and nearby fishing piers provide plenty of opportunities to explore nature, all within a short drive of the tournament. There is so much to do in the area that you could spend weeks here, and between the beach, shopping, the outdoors, and restaurants, you would never run out of things to do or places to eat.   Fans   4 With Foley now firmly established as the annual postseason home of the Sun Belt Conference, fans from the participating teams routinely make the late November trip (only 10 teams qualify for the volleyball tournament. You’ll find families, friends, and alumni from all the participating schools at the tournament, so expect a rotating host of school colors. Obviously, nearby South Alabama, Southern Miss, and Troy will have the most visiting fans on hand. The crowd at Foley Event Center isn’t usually massive, but it’s engaged, and what it lacks in pure size it makes up for in loyalty and character. You’ll hear organized chants from student sections, see homemade signs from parents, and find pockets of fans cheering. By the time the semifinals and finals roll around, this neutral-site facility sounds like it belongs to whichever fan base has traveled the best. There’s also a good-natured vibe across the stands. Rival fanbases tend to mingle rather than argue, and conversations often revolve around travel stories – where they ate, where they stayed, and who made the longest drive, etc. Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Access   3 Reaching Foley and the beaches of Baldwin County often means leaving I-10. This area sits just beyond the main travel corridors, so getting there can feel a little out of the way, especially for first-time visitors. The good news is that November avoids the lengthy summer beach traffic, although drivers should still expect a steady stream of stop-and-go traffic, as well as plenty of red lights along the way, especially with this being the weekend before Thanksgiving. Once you arrive at Foley Sports Tourism Complex, everything runs smoothly. Parking is free and plentiful, signage is clear, and the Event Center is easy to navigate. Entry is efficient, hallways are wide, and restrooms and concessions are well marked. The only real congestion occurs inside the gym during high-stakes matches; shoulder-to-shoulder seating can happen in the bleachers, particularly during the semifinals and on championship day. Arriving early is recommended if you want a prime viewing spot.   Return on Investment   4 General Admission tickets are $10 per day. Parking is free, and concessions are inexpensive. But what separates this tourney from most other neutral-site tournaments is the beach location. With the warm weather during late November, it’s possible to take a dip in the ocean while you are here. In addition, November is officially the offseason for beach tourism, which means hotel and condo prices drop significantly compared to summer rates. Between the cheap entry, holiday atmosphere, walkable entertainment, and nearby beaches, the Sun Belt Volleyball Tournament is a destination tournament – one that feels more like an early Christmas vacation on the beach.   Extras   3 Foley Sports Tourism Complex also hosts the Sun Belt Conference Soccer Tournament every year, hosted at the main stadium outside the Event Center, while the Sun Belt Cross Country Championship is held up the road at Graham Creek Nature Preserve. In fact, this area has embraced the role of destination tournament host, not just for the Sun Belt, but for National Championships as well. For example, just down the road, the Gulf Shores beaches host the NCAA Beach Volleyball Tournament  every year, and roughly 50 minutes away, Pensacola hosts the Sun Belt Basketball Tournament  and the SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament. One extra that truly separates this tournament from most college postseason events is the fact that it takes place right next door to one of the most elaborate Christmas displays on the Gulf Coast, in downtown Owa. Fans can walk from the gym to a winter-themed entertainment district in minutes, and Owa also makes for an excellent stop during the day for families who want to ride roller coasters or other amusement park rides before the matches. Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Another extra is how you can experience two seasons in the same afternoon; with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach less than 20 minutes away, it’s entirely possible to spend a late November morning swimming in clear coastal waters, then spend the evening walking through Christmas lights at Owa or The Wharf – few places in the country allow fans to go from sand to seasonal decorations in a single day.

Baseball at the big house, that will be the case when the Joliet Slammers play a game at the Old Joliet Prison . The Joliet Area Historical Museum and the City of Joliet announced today that the Slammers will play an exhibition game behind the walls of the old prison in collaboration with the Route 66 Kickoff celebration. The game will be called “The Big House Ballgame.” “‘The Big House Ballgame’ is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate Joliet’s unique history while connecting it to the broader story of Route 66,”  said Greg Peerbolte, CEO of the Joliet Area Historical Museum.  “We’re eager to welcome Slammers fans and history buffs alike to the prison yard’s diamond, offering visitors a chance to experience both America’s pastime and our city’s remarkable heritage in a single, unforgettable event.” Baseball had been played inside the walls of the old prison, which dates back to 1914. Organized games were first introduced at the prison by Warden Edmun Allen to boost morale among inmates and encourage good behavior. Prisoners would form teams and play against outside teams and other prison ball clubs. The games continued on the grounds until the prison’s closure in 2002. Tickets have not gone on sale, nor has information on the field's seating capacity been provided. Fans interested can visit the  Joliet Slammers website  and sign up for the waitlist. Joliet will be among a select group of cities celebrating centennial festivals for the famed highway, along with Santa Monica, CA, Albuquerque, NM, Amarillo, Texas, Springfield, and St. Louis, MO.  ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

The FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) playoffs are now underway, with the National Championship game taking place in January 2026 in Nashville, TN. While the champion will be determined on the field, Stadium Journey focuses on the activity in the stands and around the stadium. To do this, we use our FANFARE scoring system, which evaluates all the factors that encompass the gameday experience: food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, accessibility, return on investment, and extras (anything that is unique to that stadium). We proudly present our list of the top 25 stadiums in the FCS. Several stadiums had identical scores, and we broke any ties by a vote of our reviewers. We don’t expect you to agree with some of these rankings. In fact, we encourage you to have lively discussions with your fellow football fans. Feel free to share your thoughts on our Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and Bluesky pages. 1. Washington-Grizzly Stadium - Montana Grizzlies (4.43) Jason Karp - Our top-rated stadium features spectacular natural surroundings, a lively fanbase, close up views of the action and an always competitive team year after year. 2. William B Greene Stadium - East Tennessee State Buccaneers (4.43)  (Lloyd Brown) The natural setting at the base of a mountain forms a stunning backdrop for Buccaneer games, especially when the fall foliage color is at its height. The Buccaneer Band kicks off the gameday activity with a parade and the team walk to the stadium.               3. Bobcat Stadium - Montana State Bobcats (4.29) Aaron S. Terry - The Bobcat Nation has impressed us with their enthusiasm throughout the season. They are on their feet early, as the Stampede is one of the best team entry celebrations we’ve ever witnessed.  4. Harlen Hunter Stadium - Lindenwood Lions (4.29) Lloyd Brown - The on-campus Harlan Hunter Stadium is truly the pride of the Lions nation. It features a sleek modern design and one of the largest videoboards in the FCS. The pregame tailgate draws alumni from all over Missouri to the campus hours prior to the kickoff. 5. Johnson Hagood Stadium - The Citadel Bulldogs (4.29) Aaron S. Terry - The pageantry of a football game at a service academy is something truly special. This is very true at The Citadel in Charleston, SC. The entire cadet corps marches from the campus to the off-campus Johnson Hagood Stadium prior to each contest. Recent renovations to the stadium have increased seating capacity, and the fieldhouse at one end of the stadium features a façade that mimics the architecture found throughout the Citadel campus. 6. Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium - Abilene Christian Wildcats (4.29) Terry McCutchen - Abilene Christian has averaged well above 9000 fans per game since Anthony Field opened in 2017. This has created a home field advantage for the Wildcats, which has led to some exciting games and big upsets in the past few years. 7. Shell Energy Stadium - Texas Southern Tigers (4.14) Aaron S. Terry - The Tiger’s lair includes a feature that is a necessity in the hot weather the Houston area experiences in the early fall. A canopy extends out over most of the seating areas in the stadium, providing shade for the Texas Southern and visiting fans alike. The stadium is also located near most of Houston’s top tourist sights. 8. Memorial Stadium – Tarleton State Texans (4.14) Terry McCutcheon - Tarleton State football, though a new participant at the NCAA Division 1 FCS level, provides a quality game day atmosphere. Replete with energetic students, supportive alumni, and high quality in-game presentation, Texans games are top notch events. 9. Rhodes Stadium - Elon Phoenix (4.14) Will Halpern - The home of the Phoenix is rising in our ratings based on the great sight lines, tasty North Carolina BBQ being served at its concession stands and the sounds coming from the Fire of the Carolinas Band. The Phoenix faithful arrive early and stay late for an all-day party. 10. Franklin Field - Penn Quakers (4.14) Gregory Koch - Like many other structures in Philadelphia, Penn Stadium is steeped in history, as it is one of the oldest college football venues in the country. It is the home field for the Penn Quakers football games, has hosted numerous Army-Navy games and has hosted several Philadelphia Eagles games when there has been a scheduling conflict. 11. Truist Stadium - North Carolina A&T Aggies (4.14) Will Halpern - North Carolina A&T State University has been one of the football powerhouses in the MEAC and throughout HBCU Football, and have a passionate fan base to match. The campus is decked in Blue and Gold with chants of Aggie Pride coming from the more than twelve thousand students, and thousands more alumni throughout the season. 12. Finley Stadium - Chattanooga Mocs (4.14) Lloyd Brown - All aboard for a fun gameday experience at the home of the Mocs. The party gets underway at the Pavilion across the street from Finley Stadium, with the Marching Mocs, the cheer squads performing at the tailgating event and the Mocs football team doing their pregame walk through the crowd on their way to the stadium. Once inside the stadium, there are food trucks serving a wide variety of foods. After the games end, Finley Stadium is just a short distance from the Chattanooga Choo-Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium, two of the city’s top tourist attractions. 13. E. Claiborne Robins Stadium - Richmond Spiders (4.00) Joseph Oakes - Oh, what a wonderful web they weave! A lovely, wooded setting, great concession items, a fun zone for the kids and capacity crowds add up to  a great football experience in the capital city of Virginia. Historic Williamsburg is nearby, making it a great option for a long family weekend in the fall.   14. Fargodome - North Dakota State Bison (4.00) Lloyd Brown - As our top-rated indoor facility, the Fargodome also has the best tailgating scene outside of any FCS venue. Once inside, the noise created by the Bison faithful can be deafening, making it difficult for the visiting team to communicate. Most important, the Fargodome provides refuge from the harsh winter weather that typically moves into the area by the end of the season. 15. Dana J Dykhouse Stadium - South Dakota State Jackrabbits (4.00) Lloyd Brown - The Jackrabbits have Dykhouse Stadium hopping well before the opening kickoff. SDSU fans have a great reputation for their tailgating acumen, which always includes a stop at the campus dairy store for its famous ice cream. Low ticket prices, one of the largest videoboards in an FCS venue, wonderful sightlines and frequent national championship seasons all add up to some great Saturdays in Brookings. 16. Harvard Stadium - Harvard Crimson (3.86) Paul Baker - One of the most historic sports venues in the country, Harvard Stadium was the nation’s first stadium built specifically for football. It is especially known for the Harvard-Yale rivalry game. It was also the scene of the first forward pass in college football history. 17. Robert and Janet Vacker Stadium - UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (3.86) Eric Moreno - The Vaqueros are one of more recent additions to the FCS level of football. Rather than taking on the immense expense of building a brand-new stadium from the ground up, the school chose to use an existing minor league soccer stadium and convert it for the American version of football. The accountants and the local fanbase are very happy about that decision, as it saved millions of dollars and provided a ready-to-use stadium that has sold out every game since the Vaqueros moved there.  18. Davidson College Stadium - Davidson Wildcats (3.86) Lloyd Brown - Davidson College’s new stadium replaces the 100-year-old Richardson Stadium, which will now be used for track and field events. The new venue offers a wide variety of concession items, close-to-the-field seating experience and an extensive electronics package that were not possible in its former home.  19. First Security Field at Estes Stadium - Central Arkansas Bears (3.86) Lloyd Brown - What’s purple and silver all over?  The playing surface at First Security Field at the University of Central Arkansas. This creates an immediate strong impression for fans watching a Bears’ home game. A high scoring offense, low-ticket prices and an on-campus location add to the gameday experience. Fans can follow every play on the expansive videoboard rising above the south end zone. 20. Stewart Stadium - Weber State Wildcats (3.86) Connor Commeau - Stewart Stadium is located at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains in Ogden Utah. The Wildcats typically schedule late afternoon games, which allow fans to experience a spectacular view of the sunsets the area enjoys. The stadium features an affordable family experience for both locals and visiting fans. 21. Powers Field - Princeton Tigers (3.86) Matthew Collins - Powers Field is a modern facility at a school known for its old, historic buildings. Tiger fans enjoy the many amenities made possible by the recent rebuilding of the stadium. It is very close to the central campus, which makes it very easy for the campus community to get to the games without needing a car. The Tiger statues just outside of the stadium make a great backdrop for selfies. 22. Dakota Dome - South Dakota Coyotes (3.86) Aaron S. Terry - A visit to the Dakota Dome in Vermillion, South Dakota is an excellent way to see college football. You can take in some great scenery, while also enjoying a game in comfort and style without having to brave the elements – that alone makes this a stadium worth journeying. You also get to experience one of the toughest intrastate rivalry games in the country when the Coyotes welcome the SDSU Jackrabbits at the Dakota Dome every two years. 23. Cowboy Stadium - McNeese State Cowboys (3.86) Paul Donaldson - “The Hole” is the second HBCU stadium on our list. It offers low ticket prices, some uniquely Cajun concessions offerings and a great P.A. announcer. The Cowboys are known for their up-tempo offense, which tends to wear out the opposition late in the games.  24. Cooper Field - Georgetown Hoyas (3.86) Gregory Koch - Though Georgetown University is best known for basketball, it also fields a football team. Cooper Field, seating just 3,750, is among the smallest venues in Division I. Its location on campus makes attending games easy for students, and it stands as the only D1 college football program in Washington, D.C. 25. O’Shaughnessy Stadium - St. Thomas Tommies (3.86) Lloyd Brown - The Tommies are relative newcomers to the FCS, jumping from Division III to Division I in 2021. However, their home field, O’Shaughnessy Stadium, has been around since 1948. It features the purple school colors prominently throughout the seating area, the press box and the end zones. The stadium features the same stone exterior material used in all the campus buildings. One of the nice period touches on the stadium exterior are the carved bas relief football figures from a bygone era.

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Ron Calcagno Stadium 1885 Miramonte Ave Mountain View, CA 94040 Map It St. Francis High School Lancers website Ron Calcagno Stadium website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 5,000 Welcome to Ron Calcagno Stadium Located just off of Mountain View, California’s Permanente Creek, stands one of the Bay Area’s best high school football stadiums. Ron Calcagno was a longtime coach for the St. Francis Lancers back in the day, winning 12 West Catholic League titles and 11 Central Coast Section championships in 24 years at the helm. In total, the Lancers have won 17 CCS titles and have taken the WCAL crown 27 times, establishing themselves as one of the most storied high school football programs in the Bay Area. Food & Beverage 4 While it may not look like it at first, the Lancers have quite a spread at both of their concession stands. There are no grills, ovens or stoves behind the cashiers, but if you order a hot dog ($6), pizza ($6), hamburger ($8), cheeseburger ($9) or tri-tip sandwich ($10), then they will give you a card stating what you ordered and have you walk over to the nearby barbeque pit where you can get your grub. The condiments are plentiful, too, as giant tubes filled with barbeque sauce and mayonnaise are stacked at the far end of the table. Once you get your dinner, you can turn around and eat on one of the large stone picnic tables that sit under a cabana lit with Christmas lights. The only downside is that if you do choose to eat in comfort, you won’t be able to watch any of the game as it is too far from the action. All you can do is listen to the roar of the crowd as you stuff your face with the finest food high school football has to offer. Ron Calcagno Stadium Concession Area, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 Although the stadium itself doesn’t pay much tribute to the school’s esteemed athletic heritage, as you walk down the hall towards the field, you are overwhelmed by the pictures and trophies that fill the cabinets that line up elegantly along the walls. Halt at the entryway of several athletic courts that pay homage to many of the school's more than 200 CCS titles. It is the ultimate fusion of past and present. Once you enter the stadium, you are met with a massive bay laurel tree that is the remainder of a long-ago orchard that was planted before the high school was founded, and has become one of the primary distinctions of Ron Calcagno Stadium. It looms over one of the two end zones as a crowd of supporters always gathers underneath it to cheer on their team. During the biggest games, this little section is packed with fans. But not on this night, as St Francis is fighting to end the regular season at 5-5, and their opponents have only won three games all year, going into the last regular season game of the year. Neighborhood 3 The surrounding neighborhood is safe and filled with activity. If you’d like something to eat before the game, Sourdough & Co ., House of Bagels , and Sizzling Lunch  are all right down Miramonte Avenue. There’s also an In-N-Out Burger  on the corner of Grant and El Camino Real, but it gets jam-packed with people after the game, so if you’d like to visit, then I’d recommend going before the game. Other sports to visit when in town include the NFL's San Francisco 49ers , the Santa Clara Broncos basketball , or the NHL's San Jose Sharks . Or for something cultural, visit the Computer History Museum in the heart of Silicon Valley. If you’d like to stay the night, there are several hotels not too far from the stadium. These include the Hotel Strata ,  Hotel Zico , and TownePlace Suites by Marriott . Fans 3 Saint Francis’s fans are a lively bunch who expect to win yet remain respectful enough to ensure that everyone in the crowd has a good time. This level of respect truly gives Ron Calcagno Stadium a familial feel. Access 3 There is parking on campus, and although it stretches all over the place, it can feel a bit crowded. Get there early if you want to get a good parking spot. Speaking of cramped conditions, it’s still possible to get an Uber there.  The stands stand tall enough to get a great angle of plays as they develop, no matter where you sit. When arriving, walk down the Athletic Hall of Fame towards the field. You'll be overwhelmed by pictures and trophies adorning the cabinets. It is clear that the school reveres its past athletic achievements and strives to win even more.  Return on Investment 3 The $11 spent on GoFans is well invested, as is the $10 spent on the tri-tip sandwich (it’s worth the heartburn, too). But it’s so much more than just the money spent. This is one of the premier athletic programs in California, with 13 state titles under its belt in multiple sports. Football has only won one of those, back in 2017, but they are still considered to be the face of the school’s esteemed athletic legacy. It’s worth your $21 to experience the aura of Lancer football. Extras 2 Like any great book, Ron Calcagno Stadium has a great cover in a massive bay laurel tree that looms over one end zone and has become a symbol of the stadium’s unique identity. Lancer fans often gather underneath it to have a unique perspective of the game, and during the biggest games, that area swells with activity. Ron Calcagno Stadium Bay Laurel Tree, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey St Francis’s student section, dubbed "the Rage Cage," is easily the most lively part of the whole atmosphere. During the biggest games, smoke fills the section as the intimate crowd rocks the stands.  Final Thoughts Ron Calcagno Stadium is one of the more unique stadiums in the Bay Area. While the scoreboard is well behind the times, both stands are tall enough to give every fan a perfect bird’s eye view of the action below. But the true landscape of the venue is located just behind the massive tree that looms over one of the end zones. There, crowds mingle as food is ordered at a large concessions stand and cooked all the way over in a barbecue pit that overlooks one of the best eating spots in all of high school football. Of course, the product on the field is often excellent as the Lancers pride themselves on tradition and legacy, always striving to add another WCAL and CCS title to their swelling trophy case.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 United Center 1901 W Madison St Chicago, IL 60612 Chicago Bulls website United Center website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 20,917 Chicago Bulls United Center Review The Chicago Bulls moved into the United Center for the beginning of the 1994/1995 NBA season. At the time, Michael Jordan was still retired and playing baseball, but he would rejoin the team later on that year and help usher in a string of three more NBA championships from 1996 to 1998. Twenty years after his retirement, it is hard not to notice MJ’s accomplishments throughout the building and how magnetic that era was to the fans in Chicago. The United Center replaced the iconic Chicago Stadium, which debuted in 1929 and had been the home to the Bulls since its inaugural year in 1966. The plan to build the multipurpose arena was created by Chicago Blackhawks owner Bill Wirtz and Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf. The cost of construction was $175 million and would have a capacity of 23,129 for basketball. The arena was also designed with an Art Deco style much like its predecessor, providing a nod to the past and progress toward the future. The United Center introduced an 8,600-square-foot screen display, giving it the most high-definition space of any NBA arena. It is four times larger than the previous one, which was installed in 2005. Fans on the 100-section level will be able to see videos and stats on a continuous LED inner ring underneath the main screens. Food & Beverage 4 The United Center has  27 concession areas along with several upscale dining areas  to enhance the game-day experience for fans during the game. The arena has a massive selection of food and beverage options featured on the main concourse. They range from regular stands to the fancier sections with additional seating, while many others have their own social area. Chicago staples and favorites from around the country are available at the United Center. The main concession stands are labeled Madison Street Eats, Chicago Sausage Shop, Chicago Dish, and Vienna Beef. Customers can order Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, Maxwell Street Polishes, chicken tenders and fries, and crinkle-cut fries. A few specialty areas include the Honey Butter Chicken stand, which sells chicken sandwiches, biscuits, and fries with pimento cheese. Lillie’s Q is home to pulled pork and chopped brisket sandwiches. This Little Goat Went to the Market fuses Mexican and Korean flavors. Short rib and Korean-style tacos are recommended. Legacy Burgers offers steak and plant-based burgers. A few more Chicago specialties include Giordano’s open space that sells thin and deep-crust pizzas, and the Goose Island Pub is a stand-alone bar that offers turkey, corned beef, and roast beef sandwiches. Many stands also feature Garrett’s Chicago Mix (cheddar and caramel popcorn) to conclude the city’s culinary tour. The FanDuel Lounge allows fans to enjoy the Bulls game and other sporting events in comfort A few upscale areas on the main concourse include three interesting places to enjoy a drink and socialize with friends. Queenie’s Supperclub draws inspiration from nearby Wisconsin's popular eateries and features a modern interpretation of a classic Midwestern eatery. Rocky’s Club is named after former Hawks owner and offers a throwback aesthetic for a timeless cocktail with friends. The FanDuel Lounge is a two-story space that offers state-of-the-art viewing to ensure no fan misses out on the action. Atmosphere 4 The Bulls are still a popular draw at the United Center, and many games are filled at or near capacity. The main concourse aisles are usually buzzing with commerce, folks grabbing something to eat or checking out many of the interactive video screens that highlight the history of the team, including those six NBA titles between 1991 and 1998. There are also various areas, such as the Goose Island Bar and Giordano’s, where patrons can relax and enjoy a few drinks and Chicago-style eats while being away from their seats in the main bowl. The upper concourse also offers four social area bars at each corner that open up to the seating area for views of the game. The attention grabber at the United Center is the championship banners that hang from the rafters of both the Bulls and the Blackhawks. One only has to gaze at the six championship banners by the Bulls and the retired jersey numbers of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen to breathe in the rich history of the team from two decades ago. The massive seating bowl is large and never feels too steep or cramped. The main aisles open up in the middle, resulting in a very easily accessible way to your seat. You never feel as if you’re hiking up a mountain to get to your seat. The same goes for the lower concourse, where you feel almost on top of the action taking place on the hardwood. The Madhouse Team Store, located in the east addition to the arena, is a 10,000-square-foot retail store offering official team merchandise and exclusive Madhouse apparel. Fans have the opportunity to make play-by-play calls via interactive touchscreens located inside repurposed CTA train cars. They can also insert themselves into iconic team photos to share on social media. There are also special sale prices on certain gear and giant-size replicas of both the Stanley Cup and the Larry O’Brien Trophy for more photo ops. However, the main spot for photo opportunities is just outside the store at the Michael Jordan statue. The 12-foot-high bronze and black granite is now located indoors in the atrium and is a work of art. Neighborhood 3 When there is an event at the United Center, the surrounding neighborhood is buzzing with fans heading to the game and grabbing a bite to eat and drink before a Bulls game. The West End of Chicago does have a reputation, but just like the South Side, where the Sox play, the neighborhood is fine during hockey and basketball games. Hawkeye’s is known for its homemade chili and hamburger specials. There is also an array of wines, spirits, and beers. On warmer days, the sidewalk patio makes for a nice choice before a game. Park Tavern serves $3 drafts before every Bulls game, a savings of 70 percent off the price of beer at the arena, and The Ogden and WestEnd offer incredible food, chef-driven dishes, and plenty of flat-screen TVs. If you are looking for a popular spot in all of Chicago, The Billy Goat on Madison is a few blocks away and is known for its “cheezborgers,” made popular from Saturday Night Live. The restaurant is also part of Chicago lore as being the architect of the Billy Goat Curse that saw the Chicago Cubs go 108 years between World Series victories. The neighborhood is in the early stages of a transformation called Project 1901 that will transform the surrounding parking lots into a new mixed-use neighborhood that will connect it to the rest of the city and its people. The $7 billion private investment will include a 6,000-seat music hall, a hotel, retail space, housing, an elevated community park, and green space around the United Center. Fans 4 The Bulls are still one of the top-drawing clubs in the league, averaging well over 20,000 as of last season, with the NBA lead in overall attendance. You would have to go back to 2009 to the last time Chicago did not finish at the top of average attendance figures. Access 4 CTA buses are the best option for public transportation – either the #20 Madison or the #19 United Center Express. After the game, a fleet of #20 buses will be lined up on Madison heading back to the Loop. Buses run past CTA elevated and subway lines, as well as Ogilvie Station, for connections via Metra rail to the Chicago suburbs. The #9 Ashland and #50 Damen buses are options for travelers heading north/south instead. CTA elevated trains are within walking distance via the Ashland/Lake station ( Green /Pink Lines). Once inside, the seating areas are divided evenly to make for easy access to all sections of the seating area. The upper and lower concourses are somewhat narrow in certain parts but large enough to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Return on Investment 4 There is a demand for Bulls tickets, and the team still attracts 20,000 plus for most games during the regular season, regardless of record. The prices differ depending on which night and who is in town to take on the Bulls. The secondary market is the cheapest option for tickets. A weekday game will cost around $40 for the least expensive ticket, but weekend games can rise to $75. There is also the factor of a popular team visiting the United Center that will drive up the price. Games against the Bucks and Nets can be pricey, but not so much against the Thunder or Kings on a weekday evening. The website TickPick offers popular prices with no extra fees. It is also best to use a website such as HeroSpot to prepay for a parking ticket before the game. The website offers a map of spots that range in price from $10 to $40, depending on the distance from the arena. Concession prices are somewhat high but not different from other NBA arenas. Fans should expect to pay around $10 for sandwiches, $15-18 for beers, and up to $18 for premium food items. Extras 4 The United Center gets an extra point for its design, which pays homage to the old Chicago Stadium that existed from 1929 to 1994. The signage inside the concourse aisles all have Art Deco fonts, and there are plenty of other nods to this design in the interior and exterior of the building. The second point goes to all those championship banners that hang from the rafters and provide a defiant exclamation point and wow factor to any first-time visitor walking to their seats. The third point goes to the atrium that houses the Michael Jordan statue, Queenie’s Supper Club, and the Madhouse Team Store. There will be further additions to the atrium, perhaps creating a festive vibe just outside the building and underneath the roof. The final point goes to the extensive video screens on the lower concourse, showcasing team history, player profiles, and photo opportunities for fans. There is also a trophy case that displays all six NBA championship trophies. Final Thoughts The United Center has enough of what you need for an enjoyable evening of professional basketball. The history of the Bulls is on display throughout the building, the social areas are great for spending time away from the game, and there is always an energetic crowd to liven up the mood of the building. ------ 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: 3.57 Manuel Rivero Gymnasium 1675 Baltimore Pike Lincoln University, PA 19352 Lincoln Lions website Manuel Rivero Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 2,500 Lions of PA Lincoln University is a public state-related HBCU near Oxford, Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, Temple, Pitt, Penn State, and Lincoln have this state-related designation. Legally, the universities remain separate and private entities, operating under their charters, governed by independent boards of trustees, and with assets under their ownership and control, thereby retaining much of the freedom and individuality of private institutions. The nearby University of Delaware also has a similar structure. Lincoln was founded as the private Ashmun Institute in 1854, it has been a public institution since 1972. It is the United States' first degree-granting HBCU. Lincoln has an impressive list of famous alumni including US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, poet Langston Hughes, and jazz artist Gil Scott-Heron. Manuel Rivero Gymnasium is part of the bigger Manuel Rivero Hall which also includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, classrooms, a wrestling room, a dance studio, and an eight-lane bowling alley. The facility was originally called Alumni Memorial Gymnasium and was renamed Manuel Rivero Hall in 1986. Manuel Rivero played football at Columbia University and played professional baseball in the Negro leagues for the Cuban Stars (East) and Pollock's Cuban Stars. Rivero went on to coach various teams at Lincoln between 1933 and 1977. He passed away in 2001. The Lincoln Lions play in NCAA Division II as a member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. The Track and Field program has been the university's most successful program. The basketball team set many records in 2006 by winning 201-78 over Ohio State Marion. Food & Beverage 1 There are no permanent food stands at the game. There was a simple drink vending machine in the lobby. We are assuming that on certain games there would be some foods sold in the lobby of the facility. Atmosphere 5 Manuel Rivero Gymnasium is a simple facility with 3 seating sections. You will be close to the action, no matter where you choose to sit. There is a great cheer squad that dances and cheers loudly and effectively throughout the game. There is also likely to be a pep band, or at least a drumline to add to the atmosphere. Lincoln Lions Intros, Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey We attended a doubleheader men's/women's event, which is a great value if you choose to do so. Both games are lively and fun to see. Neighborhood 3 Lincoln university is located outside of the town of Oxford, which is a borough in Chester County, Pennsylvania The Oxford Historic District and Oxford Hotel are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are a few interesting restaurants in the small town and we can recommend Hollow Earth Brewing, Margherita's Italian Restaurant, and Bellybusters Sub Shoppe. You can also stock up on food at the Landhope Farms convenience store or the Wawa in nearby Nottingham. Nottingham is also home to Herr Foods, which offers tours on weekdays. Check on the hours of their gift and outlet shop if in the area. Herrs also has a very good, and free, Christmas light display from December to January. Fans 5 The fans are very engaged in the game and create a great atmosphere inside Manuel Rivero Gymnasium. They are knowledgeable and loud. Access 3 Lincoln is located off a section of US Route 1 which is a divided highway so access is fairly decent. The only issue is that even though it is in the Mid-Atlantic region, this area of Chester County is much more isolated than you would expect. If you are traveling through this area you may know it as between Herr's Factory and Longwood Gardens. The university has guards at the entrance to their lots but if you let them know you are attending a sports event they will wave you through. There is plenty of parking near the gym. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to the game cost $10 for general admission. With it being Division II and the cheap cost of attending a game, the return on investment is quite good. Extras 3 There is a great display case in the entrance lobby showing off all of the athletic accomplishments of Lincoln's teams. The cheer squad is pretty amazing and is a great enhancer of the atmosphere. The color choices and phrases on the seating sections are a nice touch. Final Thoughts Lincoln University is a great sports stop if you are looking for an event between Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a rich football tradition that has produced hundreds of players who have gone on to stardom in the NFL. In addition to the action on the field, HBCU games offer a terrific gameday experience, complete with top-notch band performances, excellent food, and a rich tradition. The Celebration Bowl in Atlanta decides the on-field champion for HBCU football. Here at Stadium Journey, we’re just as interested in selecting an off-field champion, based on what’s going on in the stands, at the tailgate, during the halftime show, and getting into and out of the stadium. We’re proud to release our 2025 ratings for the 10 best stadium experiences for HBCU teams that play FCS-level football. To do this, we are using our FANFARE (food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, access, return on investment, and extras) Rating System. NOTE: We have retired North Carolina A&T from this list, as they no longer play in an HBCU conference. They technically would be at least tied with our number one. Below is their blurb as it would have been on our list. Truist Stadium - North Carolina AT&T Aggies 4.14   Will Halpern - This stadium experience has great fans, a terrific band, and several championship seasons under its belt. Attending a game at Truist Stadium should be on your bucket list. We know that wherever you go on your HBCU football travels, you will come away with a very enjoyable experience! 1. Shell Energy Stadium - Texas Southern Tigers 4.14   Aaron S. Terry - The home of the Tigers has shaded seats, great concessions, and top-notch halftime performances by the school band. Afterward, you can visit the many tourist sites around Houston. 2. O’Kelly – Riddick Stadium - North Carolina Central Eagles 3.86   Will Halpern - The Eagle’s Nest offers a great pregame tailgating experience, inexpensive tickets, and a great deejay who keeps the crowd enthused! 3. New ASU Stadium - Alabama State Hornets 3.71   Aaron S. Terry - One of the newest HBCU stadiums, the Hornet’s Nest, offers easy on/off access from I-85, performances by the Honey-Bee’s and great food. It is also located in the state’s capital city, which offers lots of options for pre- or post-game tourist visits. 4. Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium - Jackson State Tigers 3.57   Matt Colville - You will feel the history as you enter “the Vet.” It is one of the largest stadiums in the HBCU system, and it has hosted countless games featuring future NFL Hall of Fame members. Deon may have left the building, but you are sure to spot numerous NFL alumni at the pre- and post-game functions! 5. Bragg Memorial Stadium - Florida A&M Rattlers 3.43   Lloyd Brown - The snake pit has hosted numerous HBCU championship teams over the years. Check out the food trucks and stands both inside and outside of the stadium. Once inside, be prepared for some great music performed by the Marching Rattlers. 6. Louis Crews Stadium - Alabama A&M Bulldogs 3.43   Lance Sutehall - Gamedays get an early start on the George Jones Tailgate Plaza. The Maroon and White Band and the Dancin’ Divas keep the energy level high throughout the Bulldogs' games. 7. Panther Stadium - Prairie View Panthers 3.29   Eric Moreno - The stadium offers great views of the action; the Marching Storm will blow you away with some terrific music, and the tickets are cheap. What a great way to enjoy a gorgeous fall afternoon! 8. A. W. Mumford Stadium - Southern Jaguars 3.29   Lloyd Brown - The home of the Jaguars offers a great tailgating experience along the banks of the Mississippi River, the sounds of the Human Jukebox throughout the game, and some unique field-level suites to get a closer look at the action on the field. 9. William "Dick" Price Stadium - Norfolk State Spartans 3.29   Aaron S. Terry - New Spartans coach Michael Vick has really created a buzz amongst the Norfolk State fanbase. The PA announcer and the Marching Spartans keep the energy up throughout the game. 10. Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium - Grambling State Tigers 3.14   Lloyd Brown - Making a pilgrimage to the ‘House that Eddie Built” is a trip that any HBCU football fan should make at some point in their lives. Be sure to check out the on-campus museum that honors the winningest HBCU coach ever. If you are there on a gameday, you’ll be serenaded throughout the game by the “Best Band on the Land.”

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey and Shippensburg Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Heiges Field House 333 Lancaster Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257 Shippensburg Raiders website Heiges Field House website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 2,768 Ship Shape Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania (Ship or SU) is a public university in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and more than 50 master’s degree programs. Many of the original historic buildings of the campus, including Old Main, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Famous alumni of the school include Brent Grimes, former National Football League cornerback; Rob Davis, the Director of Player Development of the Green Bay Packers; and best-selling author Dean Koontz. The Raiders are members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) and have been members of the PSAC since its foundation in 1951. The Dixon trophy is awarded to the top athletic program in the 18 universities Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Shippensburg has won the trophy seven times, the most by any PSAC member. The field hockey team at Ship has been the most successful team on campus winning the national championship in Division II twice in the last six years. Football has been a strong team as well. The mascot is “Big Red,” a red-tail hawk wearing a pirate hat. Heiges Field House was the second-largest wooden-domed structure in the world when it opened. The arena is the home to the school’s volleyball, wrestling, and basketball programs, as well as housing swimming in the attached pool. From 2004 to 2007, the Red Raiders posted a 37-3 record in home basketball games, which led the students of Shippensburg at the time to nickname Heiges Field House, “The Dungeon.” The arena has a wooden playing surface designed by the same floor designer as the University of North Carolina and the University of Kansas. Food & Beverage 2 There are small food stands open for basketball games. The offerings are basic, so eat before the game. Atmosphere 3 The arena feels very open and has a typical atmosphere for a Division II level school. The field house roof is on perfect display at all times with its cool style and large fans coming from it. Neighborhood 3 Shippensburg is a nice little town located just to the north of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as well as the Maryland border. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. You can’t go wrong with CJ’s American Pub & Grill for dinner and then stopping by Goose Bros. Ice Cream for dessert. There are other options as it is a small college town with quite a few varieties of places to go. Nearby Chambersburg has many more local and chain options. Fans 3 The crowds are pretty good as Division II schools in Pennsylvania tend to have a good following. Access 4 Shippensburg is located right off Interstate 81, a major route from the south through to the northeast. Accessing the campus is easy as you get off that main road as it is marked well. The university is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the field. Parking is usually free but if it is a weeknight when classes are in session, please make sure to check parking regulations. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are around $10 and parking is free. This is a fairly good value for a decent quality game. Extras 2 There are many trophy cases in the small lobby that offer a glimpse of the successes of the various Raider teams. The unique architecture of the roof is a great extra all on its own. Final Thoughts Shippensburg plays at a good level of basketball and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Lundholm Gymnasium 145 Main St Durham, NH 03824 New Hampshire Wildcats website Lundholm Gymnasium Year Opened: 1938 Capacity: 2,500 Granite State Hoops   The University of New Hampshire is the flagship of the university system of New Hampshire. UNH is comprised of 11 colleges and graduate schools offering 2,000 courses in 100 majors. Founded in 1866 as an agricultural school in conjunction with Dartmouth College, the university moved to its current site in Durham in 1893. Today, the school boasts an enrollment of almost 15,000 students.   Lundholm Gymnasium is named for Carl Lundholm, a University of New Hampshire graduate and athletic director at the school from 1939 to 1963. The gym is located inside the Field House, adjacent to Wildcat Stadium  , and serves as home to both the men's and women's basketball teams, the volleyball team, and the gymnastics team.   The court at Lundholm Gymnasium is dedicated to Gerry Friel, who served as head coach for the men’s basketball team from 1969-1989. The New England Basketball Hall of Famer was the school’s all-time leader in victories with 188 until Bill Herrion passed Friel’s mark during the 2019-20 season.   Basketball has been played at the University of New Hampshire since 1903. The school began sponsoring a women’s basketball team in 1981. Members of the America East conference, neither the men’s nor women’s team has ever qualified for the NCAA tournament.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a small concession stand in the Field House lobby that serves a limited menu for Wildcat fans needing a snack during the game. Hot dogs, nachos, and assorted snacks make up the entire menu. The positive to this small snack bar is its value, as no item costs more than five dollars.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Lundholm Gymnasium. A new addition to the game day atmosphere here is the Lundholm Loft, a private area available to all fans at a cost of $20 per game. This area, which overlooks the north end of the court, features a buffet, lounge areas, and a private bar. Several outstanding local craft beers are available for purchase here, including brews from Stone Face, Decidious, and Tuckerman breweries. UNH Basketball Game Action. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 2   Lundholm Gymnasium definitely gives off old-school vibes from the moment you enter the lobby. Those vibes continue throughout the game, but the UNH staff put on a good show with the limited resources they have. Stadium Journey’s most recent visit occurred during finals week, so there was not much of a turnout from the student body, but based on our past visits, this is not really much of a departure from the norm.   The cheerleading and dance teams were here, performing from their respective baselines throughout the games, but they do not take the floor during play stoppages. The pep band was not present on the night of Stadium Journey's visit. There are games for younger fans during breaks, such as a dizzy bat shooting contest. The sound system is good, and the staff tries to make player introductions exciting by dimming the lights and using strobe lights, but there’s only so much you can do in an old gym like Lundholm. The PA announcer does his best to add some energy to the proceedings without being too over the top.   Banners honoring Wildcat tournament and championship teams in basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics hang on the Lundholm Gymnasium walls. There are scoreboards on either end of the gym that display basic game statistics.   Neighborhood 3   The University of New Hampshire dominates the small town of Durham. The university is located just west of downtown on Main Street, less than a mile from the gym. Durham has a nice, small-town college feel to it, and there are a few places worth checking out for a bite to eat if you are visiting here from out of town. Students regularly pack Libby’s Bar and Grill or Durham House of Pizza for a pre- or post-game meal. Fans looking to stay in town will not find many options, with a Holiday Inn Express and Three Chimneys Inn being the extent of the choices.   Fans visiting UNH from out of town will often head east to Portsmouth, located just 11 miles from Lundholm Gymnasium. Portsmouth features a picturesque, walkable downtown with numerous quaint shops and excellent restaurants. Since there are not many lodging options in Durham, head to Portsmouth for more choices.   Boston is about an hour’s drive south on I-95. The White Mountains are located just a ninety-minute drive north of Durham and feature spectacular foliage in the fall and many outstanding ski resorts in the winter.   Fans 2   The Wildcats typically do not draw big crowds to basketball games at Lundhold Gymnasium. For the 2024-2025 season, their announced attendance was 448 fans per game. Although there is some variability from year to year, this is pretty consistent with previous seasons. Stadium Journey visited Durham on a chilly December night during finals week with a crowd of 469 in attendance.   A typical crowd at a UNH basketball game is made up mostly of locals, with a good amount of families here taking advantage of the affordability of a Wildcat hoops game. This is definitely a family-friendly place to be. You’ll find a few students here taking in the action, but there is no organized student section to speak of. UNH Basketball Action from the Lundholm Loft. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   Durham is a small town with a population of almost 15,500, located fifteen minutes west of Portsmouth and an hour north of Boston. The town is easy to reach via car, as it is located just off of Interstate 95 and Route 4. The University of New Hampshire dominates the town of Durham, with the campus straddling Main Street. Lundholm Gymnasium is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to Wildcat Stadium and across the street from Whittemore Center . Most fans will park across the street from the Field House in Lot A and arrive at the facility via a tunnel that passes underneath Main Street.   For fans relying on public transportation, UNH provides several shuttles and buses that serve various campus points and travel to Dover and Portsmouth. A complete schedule of routes can be found here . The local Amtrak station is located across the street from the Field House, with trains that serve Boston, New York, and beyond.   The Field House is the hub of New Hampshire athletics, as it contains the department’s administrative offices, Swazey Pool, gymnastics training room, the Paul Sweet Oval, and Reggie Atkins Track. Fans coming here for basketball games will enter a small lobby that contains the ticket booths, concession stand, restrooms, and UNH photo gallery. Lundholm Gymnasium will be directly in front of you as you enter.   Seating inside Lundholm Gymnasium consists of molded bleachers without backs on either side of the court. There are no seats at the ends of the court. With the small size of the gym, all seats feature excellent views of the action.   Return on Investment 4   Going to a Wildcat basketball game is an affordable entertainment option for New Hampshire sports fans. Tickets are sold as general admission for $23. Seniors and youth are admitted for $17. Courtside tickets can be purchased for $35. Parking in Lot A across the street from the Field House is free, and all the items on the concessions menu are priced under five dollars.   Extras 2                                                                                                 When visiting Lundholm Gymnasium, be sure to take a walk around the Field House and check out the photos of every single varsity program to ever represent the university. Not just championship teams, but every single squad. Every sport, every year. It’s an impressive gallery. Hidden amongst these pictures of thousands of young men and women are a hockey Hall of Famer (Rod Langway, class of ’79), a baseball Hall of Famer who went to UNH on a basketball scholarship (Carlton Fisk, class of ’63) and a hockey player who is best known as an actor who played a hockey player (Michael Ontkean, class of ’70, a.k.a. Ned Braden from the cult classic Slap Shot). Also, check out the women’s hockey teams from 1977-92, where coach Russ McCurdy would pose for the annual team photo holding his cat.   Final Thoughts   New Hampshire is one of those northeast schools where hockey is king and hoops are an afterthought. The quaint, old-timey nature of Lundholm Gymnasium reflects the university’s attitude towards basketball. Stepping into Lundholm is almost like stepping back in time. If you like your hoops presented simply, you’ll love visiting UNH.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos courtesy of Amy Lane Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 The Nest at Colbert Court 6000 J St Sacramento, CA 95819 Sacramento State Hornets website The Nest at Colbert Court website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 1,012 The Hornets Nest The Sacramento State Hornets play in one of the smallest gyms in NCAA's Division I. This creates an intimate environment for the Hornets men's basketball team that routinely fills up The Nest to its 1,012 spectator capacity. The Hornets Nest at Colberg Court has been the home to Sacramento State basketball and volleyball since it opened in 1955. Sacramento State plays in California's capital city and competes in the Big Sky Conference. The conference is the home to many state universities with smaller athletic programs in the Western United States. Next year, Sac State's neighbor, UC-Davis , will join the conference as an affiliate member, participating only in football. During this time of complete conference overhauls, the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) has shown interest in recruiting the Hornets into the FBS realm of college football. Some of the holdup has been the state of Colberg Court and the perception that it is unfit and too small in relation to other schools in the conference and in the division. After all the courting of universities and conferences it seems Sacramento State is staying put in the Big Sky for the foreseeable future. Food & Beverage 2 There is nothing too exciting about the food and beverage options at The Nest. However, I did appreciate the straight forward nature of the menu and the reasonable prices. Hot dogs ($4), polish dogs ($5), nachos ($3), popcorn ($1), chips ($1) and candy ($1) are the extent of the food options. Bottled water ($1.50) and soda ($1.50), coffee ($1), Gatorade ($3) and Rockstar Energy Drink ($2.50) were the only beverage options, but again, at very reasonable prices. My recommendation is to eat at a nearby restaurant prior and grabbing a cup of coffee at the game. Atmosphere 4 I didn't know what to expect when I traveled to Sacramento to see the Hornets play. I'd been to many basketball venues in the state's lesser conferences with decidedly mixed atmospheres. To top it off, it was a rainy Thursday and 8:00 pm tip. Sacramento State had the best basketball atmosphere of the "smaller" venues I've been to, surpassing UC-Davis, Pacific and San Jose State, and rivaling the likes of USF and Saint Mary's . To begin, the place was packed. Granted, the maximum capacity is only 1,200 persons but I was still pleasantly surprised. I often think that schools with passionate, yet small fan bases would be better suited for even smaller, intimate venues. Many members of the other athletic programs were in attendance creating quite a buzz around the gym. It was also the night which the senior members of the Hornet cheer leading squad and dance team were recognized for their time at Sac State. One could easily confuse Colberg Court for a high school gym as it is particularly small for a college venue and the atmosphere is definitely a social event. Granted, there are plenty of fans paying attention to the game but the social aspect is certainly strong. There were two sections of seating, mirroring one another on either side of the court. Each section was only about a dozen rows high for the duration of its length, allowing great views no matter your seat. One thing of note that I certainly took issue with. On one end line, against the wall, are what look to be at first glance, banners immortalizing great moments in Hornets history. Upon further review, they are nothing but sponsorship adds masquerading as relevant banners. Neighborhood 4 There are plenty of spots near the school to grab a bite nearby. Cafe 601 is on University Avenue and a popular destination for college students serving sandwiches and other to-go items. Hoppy Brewing Company is the most popular brewery in Sacramento and serves regular pub food. Their beer can be found at retailers all around Northern California. Though you can imbibe nearby the venue, if you have time, a trip downtown might be in order. You can visit the California State Capital, just five miles from the university as well as enjoy the rest of the downtown Sacramento area. The Pilothouse and Moxie are good downtown restaurants if you're looking for sit-down restaurant while the Firehouse and Biba are upscale restaurants in Old Sacramento near the waterfront. As the sixth-largest city in California, Sacramento has nearly half a million residents so it follows that there will be historical and social value in your surroundings. Fans 4 As previously mentioned, the fans filled up The Nest for this weeknight game, and I was pleasantly surprised. Many of the fans in attendance were families, no doubt because of the affordable nature of a Sac State basketball game. At one baseline there was a small group of students on sofas and a riser that were particularly rowdy. Some of the students were shirtless and waving flags. I did think that the socialization during the game was a tad inappropriate due to the close score of the game, but many, many other fans were engaged with the Hornets. The fans seemed to really respond to the emotion of the players playing the game and that was due in part to the proximity of any seat to the action. When their star player was pumped up, so were they. Access 2 The university is easily accessible from highway 50 and just a few miles from the I-5 and 99 junctions. Unfortunately, the easy access ends there. You almost need to have pre-existing knowledge of The Nest to know where it is. It is just a part of the bigger building complex and may take some investigating to find its actual location. Though there are four doors leading to the court, only one of them is accessible for patrons. This one entrance can get rather crowded as it also is the main entrance to the building, has access to other parts of the building, houses the snack bar and restrooms, as well as displays the championship trophies of Hornets athletics. Once you make your way through the threshold and into the gym you must walk in front of all of the spectators to get wherever you are going. This in particular made the gym feel particularly small as the bigger venues have fans enter from above and behind the seats. Return on Investment 4 This is by no means a top-flight college basketball team or conference but that doesn't mean it's not a great experience, and for a great price. General admission tickets are $10 with discounts available for seniors, students, and children. Parking is free on campus during the evenings and food, while not extensive, is certainly affordable. Extras 2 The Nest at Colberg Court does not have any great awe aspects or intangibles that separate it from any other venue. I did enjoy perusing the trophy case but that was nullified by the silly banners displaying local and national sponsors. What is nice is that it is an experience unlike any other I've experienced in Division I college basketball. The size of the gym certainly plays a roll in that, along with loyal fans.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 STMHA Rink @ Joe Thornton Community Centre 75 Caso Xing St Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 St. Thomas Stars website STMHA Rink website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 2,200 Jumbo’s House St. Thomas, Ontario, is essentially known for two things. First, it was the town that saw the tragic death of Jumbo The Elephant.  A member of Barnum and Bailey’s Travelling Circus, Jumbo, an African elephant, was struck by a train and died in September 1885. The town has commemorated this event with a large statue of Jumbo in town. St. Thomas is also known for being the hometown of NHL Hall of Famer Joe Thornton.  St. Thomas is also the home of the Junior B St. Thomas Stars of the GOHL. A city of 42,000, St. Thomas is located south of London.  The Stars were established in 1961 as the Barons and have enjoyed a long history on the Junior B circuit, which included a year of hometown hero Thornton suiting up for the Stars. The team had a few years in the Junior A and Junior C circuits, but spent the majority of their life at the Junior B level. The team adopted the Stars moniker in 1984 and is currently owned by Joe Daniels.  Other distinguished Stars alumni include Gregory Campbell, Dan Cloutier, John Cullen, Logan Couture, Brian Willsie, and Bo Horvat. Home for the Stars is the Joe Thornton Community Centre. Built in 2005 and originally named Timken Community Centre, it acts as a community hub with a pair of NHL-sized rinks, a walking track, and community rooms. The Stars play in the STMHA Rink, named for the St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association. In 2018, after Timken Canada had closed their St. Thomas manufacturing plant four years earlier, the city renamed the community centre after Joe Thornton. Food & Beverage 3 The upper lobby is where the main concession is found.  Fries, chicken fingers, poutine, onion rings, hot dogs, and burgers are on the menu.  Beverages include soda, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.  Inside the STMHA Rink, in the northwest corner, is where the Ice Box is found.  Alcoholic beverages, featuring a small beer selection, along with some snacks, are available here. Atmosphere 3 The Joe Thornton Community Centre has a fairly attractive exterior featuring brown brick with lighter brick for highlights.  The main entry is under a peaked canopy with large windows for natural light in the lobby.  After entering the building, fans are met by a permanent ticket window before the stairs that lead to the upper lobby.  In the upper lobby, there is no question who this facility is named after, as there is Joe Thornton everywhere.  A full set of framed jerseys hangs above the staircase.  The St. Thomas Wall of Fame is found in the upper lobby and includes Toronto Maple Leafs legend “Hap” Day and actress Rachel McAdams with Thornton.  There are a number of trophy cases on this level, and one of them is dedicated to the Stars.  Entry to the STMHA Rink is met with NHL action shots of Thornton, Cory Emmerton, Greg McKegg, and Rumun Ndur, St. Thomas locals, over the windows. Inside the STMHA Rink, the ice is west to east oriented with seating and netting all around the ice surface.  The walking track is found behind the seating.  The best spot for a view of the centre ice logo is from the south.  There are nine rows of plastic arena seats with standing room behind the seating with drink rails.  In the northwest corner, the Stars accolades are found, including a banner for the 1987 Sutherland Cup as Junior B Champions in Ontario.  Banners highlighting the careers of Dan Clouitier, Logan Couture, Brian Wilsie and Joe Thornton hang on the wall, as well as a new banner commemorating the 2025 induction of Thornton into the Hockey Hall of Fame.  There are lots of Stars, markings, and colours around the rink. The gameday production at a Stars game is not dissimilar to other teams in this league.  Promotions include program raffles and a 50/50 draw.  The speakers in the rink are good, the PA announcer does a good job, and the announcements are easy to understand. Neighbourhood 3 Joe Thornton Community Centre is located east of Downtown St. Thomas.  There are a number of bar and restaurant options, mostly of the chain variety.  Along with Boston Pizza and Chuck’s Roadhouse, some original options include Legends Tavern and Harry’s Charcoal Broiled.  The Stars are the only game in town.  For fans looking for other sporting options, making the short drive to London, where the London Knights  can be found during the hockey season, is the best idea.  Other tourist options in the area include the Elgin County Railway Museum, CASO Railway Station, St. Thomas Elevated Park, Elgin Military Museum, and, of course, the Jumbo the Elephant memorial.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn are not too far. Fans 4 The St. Thomas Stars enjoy strong fan support.  For the 2024-25 season, the Stars averaged 640 fans per game, which ranked them 5th in the GOHL.  At the time of writing, the Stars ranked 6th in the league and saw 537 fans at the game that was reviewed.  Fans in attendance are not unlike most other Ontario fans, as they are fairly quiet and reserved.   Access 4 Joe Thornton Community Centre is located east of Downtown St. Thomas.  It is about 1 ¼ km south of Highway 3 and 12 km southeast of Highway 401.  Getting to the arena is not too difficult.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans wanting to take public transit, there are stops on Caso Crossing and Talbot.  Fans should consult the St. Thomas Local Motion  website for fares, schedules, and maps.  Getting around the arena is not too difficult, and the washroom facilities are adequate for the venue. Return on Investment 5 The St. Thomas Stars and GOHL provide tremendous value for the sporting dollar.  Tickets for the Stars are $12 with discounts for seniors and youth.  Cash or card are methods of payment available.  Concession prices are reasonable, and parking at the facility is free.  The product on the ice is very good, and the arena is comfortable.  Put that all together, and it equals a solid night’s sports entertainment for a low financial outlay. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Joe Thornton Community Centre as a community hub. A pair of extra marks for the Jumbo the Elephant memorial and local celebrity, Joe Thornton.  Thornton’s NHL nickname of ‘Jumbo’ comes from his hometown and the sad story of the circus elephant. Final Thoughts The St. Thomas Stars are a solid franchise in the Junior B level GOHL.  St. Thomas has shown its love for their hometown hero, Hockey Hall of Famer Joe Thornton.  The Joe Thornton Community Centre is a solid Junior B facility that offers good sightlines and comfort, and taking in a Stars game has tremendous value for the sporting dollar. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads , and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Kirkwood Sports 1220 River Rd New Castle, DE 19720 Delaware City FC website Kirkwood Sports website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 200 City's Home Delaware City FC is a semi-professional soccer team based in New Castle, Delaware. The team is a Major Arena Soccer League 3 (MASL 3) member. MASL3 is a North American indoor soccer league that serves as the developmental league of the Major Arena Soccer League and MASL2. The league started in 2020. The Major Arena Soccer League started in 2008, and Major Arena Soccer League 2 started in 2017. Delaware City FC operates out of the Kirkwood Sports Complex in New Castle, Delaware, for its Major Arena Soccer League 3 (MASL3) indoor soccer schedule. The complex, situated directly off of Route 9, is a multi-purpose recreational facility that primarily serves as a hub for local and regional sports, featuring numerous outdoor fields and a full indoor turf arena. T The indoor turf arena features limited fixed seating, which ensures a distinct, close-quarters viewing experience focused purely on the immediate action of the indoor game. The complex’s mission is centered on community and athletic development, giving the venue a practical, utilitarian character for competitive soccer matches. Food & Beverage 1 There are simple and basic concession offerings located in the venue. One should plan on eating or drinking before or after the game. Atmosphere 3 This is a normal indoor recreation field that we see all over the country. It is a simple setup with very little seating. There are a couple of rows of stands near the arena glass. There will be many fans standing around as well. Neighborhood 3 The Kirkwood Sports Complex is located in New Castle, Delaware, an area with convenient access to commercial zones that provide dining and retail options. The immediate surroundings of the complex are primarily commercial and industrial, but a short drive opens up established dining spots in New Castle and the neighboring town of Bear. For classic American fare, nearby options in Bear, Delaware, include places like Border Cafe, which offers a full-service experience. New Castle itself, a historic Delaware city, features independent dining. One such option is Zingo’s, a local favorite offering hot and cold Italian sandwiches and pizza. This variety allows traveling fans to combine the MASL3 match with a regional meal either before or after attending the game. Fans 3 Many of the fans are friends or family members of the players. The intimacy of the indoor arena means that the support is visible and audible to everyone on the field. Due to the limited capacity, the impact of each cheer and reaction is magnified within the small space, creating a direct connection between the spectators and the action. Access 4 The Kirkwood Sports Complex is easily accessible, located directly off Route 9 in New Castle, Delaware, which provides clear connections to major interstate highways such as I-95 and Route 1. This central location in Northern Delaware makes the venue a convenient travel point for both regional fans and visiting teams. The complex provides multiple outdoor parking areas designed to accommodate the facility’s many indoor and outdoor events. Return on Investment 3 The general admission ticket price is $20.00. It is a bit much, but a new, growing organization needs all they can get. The limited seating and layout of the indoor turf arena ensure that every ticket is effectively a prime seat, placing the spectator extremely close to the field without obstructions. Extras 2 A unique fact about the venue is its primary function as a community resource, serving as a regional hub for youth and adult recreational leagues year-round. A second unique fact is the specific architecture of the indoor facility: a massive 20,000 square foot indoor turf surface designed for year-round training and competition, a purely functional design that is distinct from a dedicated spectator arena Final Thoughts Delaware City FC is a simple sporting event to watch, but it gives the Delaware area a nice minor league type of affair to enjoy.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Mary Brown’s Centre 50 New Gower Street St. John’s, Newfoundland/Labrador, A1C 1J3 Newfoundland Regiment website Mary Brown's Centre website Year Opened : 2001 Capacity : 6,287 Regiment on the Rock The Canadian Hockey League returned to Newfoundland to start the 2025 season.  The franchise that would become the modern-day Newfoundland Regiment was established in 1968 as the Rosemont National.  In 1971, the team moved to the Montréal suburb of Laval, where they remained until 1998.  As the Laval National, they were the host to a young Mike Bossy, and as the Laval Voisins they saw a young Mario Lemieux tear up the Q.  The franchise moved east to Bathurst, New Brunswick, in 1998 and became the Acadie-Bathurst Titan .  The Titan took home the ultimate prize, earning the 2018 Memorial Cup. Due to a tiny market and insufficient attendance, the Titan continued east until they could go east no more, settling in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.  The Regiment is not the first attempt at QMJHL hockey in St. John’s.  The expansion St. John’s Fog Devils played on the East Coast from 2005 to 2008 before moving to Montréal and eventually becoming the current Blainville-Boisbriand Armada .  The Regiment took its name from the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, an infantry division of the Canadian Army.  Their logo, featuring a caribou, is similar to the military unit’s badge. Home for the Regiment is Mary Brown’s Centre.  Built in 2001 and originally known as Mile One Stadium, Mary Brown’s Centre is the largest sporting venue in Newfoundland and Labrador.  It is owned by the City of St. John’s and has been home to AHL hockey, primarily the St. John’s Maple Leafs and St. John’s IceCaps. Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at Mary Brown’s Centre are strong for a junior hockey venue.  There are a few different concession outlets.  The most prevalent, of course, is the Mary Brown’s Stand that offers the signature fried chicken and taters options that have been famous through the franchise that originated in St. John’s.  There are a couple of other concession stands that offer concession items.  Options include Ziggy Fries, pizza from Boston Pizza, onion rings, poutine, and nachos.  Local favourites like fries, dressing, and gravy are also available.  For those with a sweet tooth, Nanaimo bars and local favourites, oat cake and apple flips, are available.  There are a variety of beer options found at Mary Brown’s Centre, many from the unique beer vending machines found in the concourse. Atmosphere 4 Built in 2001, Mary Brown’s Centre has successfully withstood the test of time and remains a viable junior hockey venue.  The exterior is attractive with brown brick and red accent siding with a silver sign backing above the main entry.  Entering from the outside brings fans right into the concourse.  Mary Brown’s Centre is not dissimilar to many other junior hockey venues with its single concourse.  In the concourse, which is on the dark side, is a series of memorial plaques in a military display, keeping a military motif going.  Inside the arena, the ice surface is north-south oriented, and the best spot to see the centre ice logo is from the west.  Above the seating bowl on the west side is the press box, which is named after Newfoundland and Hockey Night in Canada legend Bob Cole.  To the north of the centre scoreboard are banners honouring the Newfoundland Growlers 2019 Kelly Cup Championship and Brad Gushue and his team winning the 2017 Canadian Curling Brier.  Unfortunately, no markings or anything memorialize the St. John’s Fog Devils.  The seating bowl consists of 18 rows of plastic, arena seats with cupholders in the armrests. The Newfoundland Regiment gameday production is on a bit of a higher level than most junior hockey experiences.  The Regiment does an excellent job of honouring the Regiment name, military heritage, and adding just the right amount of Newfoundland culture.  The team enters the ice through a pair of doors painted to look like a trench with sandbags, and the ice level cannon welcomes the team.  The song that is played before the Regiment’s opening faceoff is The Excursion Around the Bay, by the Derina Harvey Band, a local favourite with a definitive local flavour.  Before the Canadian National Anthem, the performer sings “Ode To Newfoundland,” the provincial anthem.  The puffin mascot, Buddy Jr., takes part in promotions and interacts with fans in the crowd.  The 50/50 raffle is of note in Newfoundland as it is notorious for large sums given the relative crowd size. Neighbourhood 5 Mary Brown’s Centre is located in Downtown St. John’s.  It is heaven for foodies as there are a ton of original local bars and restaurants within a 10-minute walk of the arena.  Some of them include O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub, St. John’s Fish Exchange, Trinity Pub, the Celtic Hearth, Adelaide Oyster House, Birdie Green Sleeves, Newfoundland Embassy, and YellowBelly Brewery.  St. John’s is a wonderful tourist destination with the harbour just steps from the arena and the Terry Fox Mile One Memorial just minutes from downtown.  Other tourist options include Signal Hill, Cape Spear, and The Rooms museum.  It is definitely best to visit St. John’s early in the hockey season, as the weather can be a bit precarious in the winter.  The Newfoundland Rogues of The Basketball League also play at Mary Brown’s Centre.  Senior hockey and Junior A hockey are also popular in St. John’s.  Memorial Sea-Hawks  basketball can be found north of downtown on the campus of Memorial University.  The Delta and Hilton are just steps from the arena and good choices for a spot to stay downtown. Fans 5 Admittedly, this review is early on in the life of the Regiment, but thus far, the support in St. John’s has been terrific.  At the time of writing, the Regiment was averaging almost 5,000 fans per game, which ranks them third in the QMJHL behind much larger arenas and cities in Quebec and Halifax.  At the game that was reviewed, there were more than 5,100 fans in attendance.  St. John’s fans are not very loud and pretty reserved, but engrossed in the game.    Access 4 Mary Brown’s Centre is located in Downtown St. John’s, north of Highway 2.  It is nearly 4 km south of the Trans Canada Highway.  Due to the relatively small size of St. John’s, with only 110,000 people, getting to the arena is not that difficult.  It is between New Gower Street and Livingstone Street.  St. John’s has some significant hills, which should be kept in mind, specifically if travelling north of downtown.  There is no parking on site; however, there are a few parking garages in the area.  For those interested in public transit, there are buses east of New Growers on Water Street.  Fans should consult the Metrobus website for fares, schedules, and maps.  Getting around Mary Brown’s Centre is not too difficult; however, the concourses are not huge and do fill up during intermissions.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Return on Investment 4 There is pretty good value in taking in a Newfoundland Regiment game.  Tickets begin at $25 for the upper corners and go up to $33.  This is a bit on the high side for the QMJHL.  Discounts are available for youth, seniors, and military.  Parking will cost in the area, but should not be too much, and concession prices are about what one would expect.  The product on the ice is high quality and comes with a good balance of modern sports event and Newfoundland flair. Extras 3 Two extra marks for the crazy support that Newfoundlanders have for the 50/50 draw.  At the game that was reviewed, the 50/50 draw, which is new for each game, hit over $30,000.  There is even a portrait of Murray Chaplin in the concourse.  Murray was an institution at Mary Brown’s Centre, selling 50/50 tickets, before his passing. An extra mark for the Mile One Marker, where Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope in 1980.  The original name of Mary Brown’s Centre was Mile One Stadium, which is a nod to that as well as an acknowledgement of St. John’s as the easternmost point in Canada. Final Thoughts The newest member of the QMJHL has hockey fans talking.  There are high hopes for the return of hockey to Newfoundland, and the results are being seen at the turnstile.  Hopefully, the Newfoundland Regiment will have a long and successful reign at Mary Brown’s Centre despite the travel challenges it brings to the league.  Hockey on the Rock is a necessity, and Junior Hockey is the perfect fit. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads , and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Toyota Arena Tokyo 1-3-1 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo, Japan 135-0064 Toyota Arena Tokyo Alvark Tokyo website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity : 10,000 The Arena with the New Car Smell When thinking about sports in Japan, baseball will always be top of the list, as the games are accessible and some players are well known, either because they used to play in MLB or are about to. Sumo and its traditions appeal to those with a deeper interest in the country, while soccer's J.League is gaining followers, helped by the Samurai Blue's success on the world stage. But what most overseas fans don't realize is that there is a thriving basketball league in Japan, one with 55 teams across three divisions. Known as the B.League, most of its clubs play in smaller municipal gyms across their region, so doing stadium reviews is not very meaningful. Recently, however, a new arena opened in Tokyo as a more permanent home to a team there, and as Stadium Journey happened to be in town at the time, we decided to pay a visit. Known as Toyota Arena Tokyo, it is the new home of Alvark Tokyo, a club that has been around since 1948. Located in the fashionable Odaiba area, it hosted its first game in October 2025 and has Alvark fans excited for the future. It might not be as thrilling as a new NBA arena, but it still has a lot to offer. Food & Beverage 5 Unlike the gouging that occurs in North American venues, stadium food in Japan is reasonably priced and comes with the quality that you expect. The main concourse has many options, at least one of which should tempt even the pickiest fan. One stand is called Fast Break and has an American Snack Bowl (chips and dip) or Mexican Snack Bowl (tortillas and salsa) for 600 yen (at the time of writing, $1 = ~150 yen, so 600 yen is about $4). They also have cups of Häagen-Dazs for the same price. Another stand is Hatago Aomi, where rice balls are between 350 and 450 yen, while a cup of chanko nabe (a sumo staple) is 800 yen. Juicy fried chicken is a bargain at 650 yen, with a tuna and salmon rice bowl somewhat more expensive at 1,200 yen (again, just $8). Meal Mates offers a Kansai-style beef bowl for 1,500 yen, the same price as a Nagoya-style miso-katsu bowl. Chicken tenders are 700 yen here, and they even have fried shrimp for 750 yen. There are many other options, so get there early and walk around before choosing. Soft drinks are Pepsi products and generally cost 400 yen, while draft beer starts at 900 yen ($6), with a special Alvark brand red brew (a beer dyed red) going for 1,200 yen and not recommended. There are also highballs for just 800 yen. ​ Atmosphere 4 The area surrounding the arena can be quite dark at night, but as you approach, its lights provide plenty of guidance. The building has been constructed on a small hill, so you have to go up some stairs to get to the main entrance, where you will also find the box office. Fans line up to enter, which does take some time. I recommended heading to Miraie, the bar just next to the bottom of the staircase, where you can relax while the queue subsides, with beer going for 900 yen. There is a large screen that will show highlights of previous Alvark games. Toyota Arena Tokyo Miraie Bar, Photo by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Inside, the main concourse can be a little crowded. There is an upper concourse as well that is only for a certain portion of the upper bowl. Capacity is 10,000, and the team is selling very well early on, meaning that there are few empty seats for moving around. Seats are numbered sequentially from 1 to over 600, depending on the row. Seat numbers are painted on the aisle floor next to each row, so it is quite easy to find your location. All seats are black and padded and very comfortable, with drink holders as well. There are suites, but they are part of the lower level, so the upper level is relatively close to the floor. Trash in Japan is highly organized, and you can see that in the number of receptacles around the concourse. They even have staff members there to help you, as it can be quite confusing if you don't live in Japan. During the game, it can get quite loud, though repetitive, with constant calls of 'Defense' when the opposition has the ball. During the breaks, there are promotions and the like, but they are fairly easy to tune out. The center-hung scoreboard is rectangular and of extremely good quality for video replays. The mascot is Rook, a giant red teddy bear, who cavorts along the baseline. Alvark, by the way, is another of those weird team names that dominate sports in Japan. It originates from the Arabic word 'albarq', meaning 'lightning'. Furthermore, 'AL' signifies 'The', 'V' stands for 'Victory', and 'ARK' is, well, 'ark'. Together, they symbolize "an ark that carries victory". Neighborhood 5 Toyota Arena is in the Odaiba area, a large artificial island in Tokyo Bay across the Rainbow Bridge from central Tokyo. During the 1990s, the area was redeveloped into a major commercial, residential, and leisure area, and it is now a major tourist destination. There are dozens of things to do here, from shopping malls to arcades to museums, movie theaters, and even beaches. Hundreds of restaurants can be found serving all types of food, while there are also several fancy hotels here, though I would recommend staying closer to the center of the city and spending the day in Odaiba. Fans 4 I was amazed that nearly 10,000 fans were on hand for this game, as in previous visits to basketball in Japan, the crowd rarely exceeded 2,000. No doubt the attraction of the new arena contributed to the crowd, but everyone still knew enough about the game to cheer at the right time and contribute to the atmosphere. And as always, they were exceedingly polite and cleaned up after themselves, a welcome tradition when compared to the disgusting messes left at arenas in North America. Big Crowd at Toyota Arena Tokyo for an Alvark Tokyo Game, Photo by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Access 4 The arena is located next to Aomi Station on the Yurikamome line, but there are a few other stations nearby, too. Use Google Maps or a local Japanese transit app to figure out the best way to get there from wherever you are staying. I can't imagine driving here and would strongly recommend you avoid doing so. There was a large and long lineup before the game, which I avoided by going to the bar as mentioned earlier. This is really the only issue with access to the venue. Inside, the concourse seems a bit narrow, but there was no problem getting around, probably because most fans were already sitting in their seats before the game. Halftime did prove a bit tough to complete a full circuit of the concourse, but concession and restroom lines were mostly non-existent and moved quickly when present. Return on Investment 4 The team employs dynamic pricing, and to complicate matters, there are 46 (yes, forty-six!) price points along with five game tiers depending on the day of the week and the opponent. That's 230 potential prices to enumerate, and obviously, I will not do so. To buy tickets online, you need to create an account, which, as a tourist, is probably something you are not willing to bother with. Fortunately, the box office is open before the game and will sell you a hard ticket, explaining the location on a seating chart. For the game I attended, the cheapest ticket was an astounding 10,400 yen, about $67.50. There were slightly cheaper options, but they had sold out in advance. However, for some upcoming games, tickets are as low as 3,000 yen, about $20, a reasonable price. Given the low price of food and the unique experience provided, this is still a worthwhile place to visit if you happen to be in Japan during the fall or winter. Extras 2 Alvark is sponsored by Toyota (the team was originally called the Toyota Pacers before becoming Toyota Alvark in 2000, finally dropping the company name in 2016). There is a small corner with some uniforms and shoes on display, though these seemed to be for current players rather than past stars. Another point for impressive architecture, something that is slowly becoming the norm with new stadiums in Japan. Final Thoughts Overall, Toyota Arena is an impressive venue that has few problems despite having just opened. Traditionally, Japanese sports venues were purely functional, but this has been changing over the past. A couple of decades as, fan comfort and extra amenities were understood to be critical to the experience. If you are in Tokyo during the season, see if you can get to an Alvark game and add this new stadium to your list.

Photos by Xander Loosvelt, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Rock Chalk Park 6100 Rock Chalk Dr Lawrence, KS 66049 Kansas Jayhawks website Rock Chalk Park website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 2,500 A Decade of Stories in Lawrence In 2014, the inception of Rock Chalk Park was the start of a new era for Kansas sports. Though basketball and football were easily the sports that got the most attention, this new stadium laid out a brand new home for the other Jayhawk sports teams that rivaled the popular Memorial Stadium and Allen Field Fieldhouse. While the stadium serves as home field for Kansas softball, track and field, and tennis, no group is more synonymous with Rock Chalk Park than Kansas soccer. The addition of this stadium was a revolution for the team and fanbase that needed a new place to call home, and over the last 11 years, it has developed into one of the premier college soccer stadiums. As a whole, the park is one of the top facilities in collegiate sports. As primarily a soccer stadium, the last decade has seen a multitude of NCAA tournament games, including the one I attended, players receiving national recognition, program records being set, attendance numbers reaching new heights, and so, so much more. Food & Beverage 3 Rock Chalk Park offers a better-than-average concession experience with high-quality snacks as well as quick and easy service. However, it’s dragged down a bit by its lack of a wide variety of food and drink options, the slightly high prices, and the absence of specialty items. The stadium as a whole has three places for concessions with around five to seven total lines that all offer similar products. They have mostly traditional stadium food with the addition of a few items that help bring the Lawrence feeling out, including burgers and pork sandwiches, both priced at $12, but don’t quite meet the criteria for “specialty” items. The stands accept credit and debit cards, and the prices are a little higher than most would hope for from traditional concessions, especially at a soccer game. The stadium serves a multitude of sodas, with Coke and Pepsi being the major brands served, as well as a decent variety of other non-alcoholic drinks. There is a small variety of alcoholic beverages, all served at $10 as well as two craft beer options in Wheat and Pale Ale. The stadium's hot dogs ($6) or pretzel bites ($7) are the way to go if you're looking for a cheaper, fulfilling snack while watching the game, but in all honesty, any of the options will leave you satisfied if you can get past the initial surprise of the higher prices. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere of Rock Chalk Park from entry to exit provides a unique experience that brings the Lawrence community comes together. For starters, the stadium is beautiful - one of the most underrated venues in college soccer. All seats are located on the west side of the stadium with proximity to the field, with seats being on either side of the tunnel at midfield, while benches line the outer sections, and an outer blue wall on the grass separates the field of play from the greens, where fans are allowed to sit to watch the game from an alternative view. The wall is lined with painted banners of past conference championships and the NCAA tournament appearances, as well as Kansas flags and colors flying on the poles that line the east side of the wall. Outside of just the aesthetic, there’s entertainment throughout the game. Music blasts on the speakers in big moments, the Jayhawk band plays throughout the game, the PA announcer is on the microphone to hype up the crowd at all the right times, and there’s even a halftime race between condiment costumes. The end of games always concludes with the team and fans singing the fight song and Rock Chalk chant, a tradition at all KU sporting events that gets a more personal touch at the park. Even if at some point you need a break, Wi-Fi is available for all and runs at a high speed. The best seats in the house are easily, well, the actual seats with backrests. The benches are fine and give you just as good a view, but the real seats with cupholders near midfield provide the most comfortable experience as well, putting you at the center of the action. There are no premium seats or suites, but the layout of the stadium seating strengthens the fandom and provides a tough environment for opposing teams. Neighborhood 3 Rock Chalk Park is located in the northwest corner of Lawrence, away from the university and downtown activities, but still easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Its more isolated location makes it very safe for drivers and walkers alike, though from most places in town, you’ll end up driving. Though its separation from the rest of Lawrence adds to its charm, it may be just a little more separated from the other areas of Lawrence than desired by tourists. While there are no restaurants within walking distance from the stadium, Morningstar’s New York Pizza and J. Wilson’s are both high-quality restaurants that highlight an overall, pretty solid selection of food in the area. After a good meal, take a drive and check out the Dole Institute of Politics, or take a tour of the University of Kansas, while you have some free time, to get the true feeling of what it means to be in a college town. Outside of soccer, KU has just opened up its brand new football stadium, David Booth Memorial Stadium is just around the corner from the historic basketball venue, Allen Fieldhouse , where you can also spend some time and take a tour. There may not be a plethora of attractions, but what the city has to offer is well worth your time. For a short walk to the stadium, Stone Hill Lawrence is the place to stay. To be near the other attractions the city has to offer while simultaneously staying close to the park, Tru by Hilton is right in the middle of everything the city has to offer. Want to stay in the heart of the University of Kansas? The Oread is at the end of Jayhawk Boulevard and serves as the de facto university hotel. If those places aren’t your groove, take your pick of any Lawrence hotel. All lodging options are high quality with a great reputation, and no matter what, you should come away with a very hospitable experience. Fans 5 Well, this one certainly gets a leg up from the fact that the park recorded its highest attendance ever at the game I attended. In fact, over the course of the year, they’ve had multiple record crowds, and in the past couple of years, the seats have begun to routinely fill up closer and closer to capacity. Rock Chalk Park is home to a passionate fanbase that refuses to let an opponent forget their presence. They are loud every time something positive happens for the home team, showing a constant level of involvement that you don't see just anywhere. There's a plethora of kids running around the wall and grass to follow the ball, and even fans sitting on blankets in the grass to add to the feeling of family that the stadium manages to bring out of everyone. Fans are in their seats, off their phones, tuned in, and never leave until no time remains on the clock. Even after the clock strikes zero, most stay and wait to sing the fight song and the Rock Chalk Chant with the team. This is a fanbase that really cares for their team’s success, and they embody what a home crowd should be like, even with their smaller size. Access 4 The stadium overall allows for an easily accessible experience, ranging from parking to entry to movement, but the actual travel to get to Lawrence is a challenging and somewhat annoying experience. Bad news first: You're not getting a direct flight into Lawrence. The easiest way to get to Lawrence is flying into Kansas City International, then renting a car to make the hour drive to the city - yes, renting a car is necessary. In the long run, it saves money since Rock Chalk Park is separated from the Lawrence attractions, and there aren’t any mass transit options to the stadium. All that said, everything else surrounding the park’s accessibility is nearly flawless. The parking lot in front is huge, and there are more than enough spots. Try and park closer to the front middle for a shorter walk, but no matter what, it’ll be a quick process in and out since traffic is light thanks to its more isolated location. If needed, you can also find accessible parking towards the northeast side of the lot, as well as a drop-off area in front of the entry point. The gate of entry is on the east side of the stadium and adjacent to the parking lot. Getting in is a quick and easy process - they’ll scan your mobile ticket, check your bag if you have one, and off you go. There is a clear bag policy for bags exceeding a 6-by-9 size, but anything smaller is allowed as long as it passes a light security check. Once you're inside, you’ll find it’s very easy to move around Rock Chalk Park. You can see the game from anywhere inside; the concourse is easy to navigate, and there’s accessible seating at the top of the concourse that isn’t far removed from the field of play. The best part? The restrooms are nice, clean, and well-kept by the staff. The stadium is highly accessible for all and provides an easy experience, no matter which part you choose to spend your time in. Return on Investment 4 Rock Chalk Park provides a unique, friendly, community-driven experience that is worth the money you’ll spend to get in and enjoy the experience to the fullest. The tickets for the game I attended cost about $13, but for a regular game (non-NCAA tournament) that number is more than likely closer to $10. Parking is free, so no need to worry about pulling out the wallet the second you drive in, and depending on the specific concessions choice, you're spending somewhere between $20 - $25 for food. Essentially, on the high end, you're looking at spending around $40 for a full game experience at Rock Chalk Park, a more than reasonable amount for what the experience offers. The concessions may be priced a little higher than hoped, but considering the food and drink are high quality, the lower ticket prices and overall entertainment value of the play on the field, your money is well spent on a night watching Kansas soccer. Extras 3 Though Rock Chalk Park doesn’t have a whole lot of program-specific activities to do inside the stadium, It still gets the extra points boost for having a variety of other Easter eggs and a unique layout. The stadium includes a Rally House for KU merchandise on the entry path, and a lot of room for kids to run around on the green surrounding the field, banners of former players in the air, and friendly, knowledgeable staff who can assist with a variety of needs. And just re-emphasize this, parking is free. Final Thoughts Rock Chalk Park, as a soccer stadium, is a one-of-a-kind experience for soccer and Kansas sports. In a rare occurrence, I can confidently say there is not a single bad thing about Rock Chalk Park. When the biggest gripes are that the food may be slightly overpriced and that the city, not the stadium, is difficult to travel to by plane, it’s clear that the stadium has given people a lot to love about it. As the Kansas soccer program has begun to improve over the last couple of years, the team has continued to attract more fans, and the experience has gotten better and better. At the pace they’ve seen this season, seating expansion may be coming for Rock Chalk Park in the next few years - a testament to the well-rounded stadium experience that has continued to keep fans wanting more and coming back.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Lee and Penny Anderson Arena 2260 Summit Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105 St. Thomas Tommies website Lee and Penny Anderson Arena website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 4,000 The Tommie Finally Have Home Ice! The University of St. Thomas is a Catholic liberal arts college located in St. Paul, MN. It was founded in 1885 and has a student body of 11,000. The University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, has one of the oldest collegiate ice hockey programs in the country, as it first fielded a team during the 1920-21 season. The program started at the Division III level, where it was a powerhouse, as the Tommies won 34 conference titles, made 17 NCAA Tournament appearances, and were National runners-up on two occasions. The program originally played in outdoor rinks at multiple sites, with team members pitching in to shovel snow, patching the ice, and assembling the rink walls themselves. Often, the ice would begin to melt or chip away before the games ended, forcing an early termination of the contest. This situation continued until the 1960s, when the team began a nomadic journey to various off-campus indoor rinks in the Twin Cities area. These rinks included the Cow Palace in South St. Paul (1962-63), Aldrich Arena (1963-1970), the St Paul Academy (1970-1976), the State Fair Coliseum in St. Paul (1976-2003) and the St. Thomas Ice Arena in Mendota Heights (2003-2025), which is a high school academy linked with the University of St. Thomas. The team transitioned to the Division I level of competition in 2020, and this facility had a capacity of only 1,000 seats, making it the third smallest rink based on capacity in Division I hockey. The Tommies' schedule was often difficult to maintain, as they had to work around the ice time available at each of the six sites. Nearly a century after the St. Thomas Tommies hockey program started, they finally have an on-campus arena home ice facility of their very own. The Lee and Penny Anderson Arena opened in time for the 2025-2026 hockey season. The $175 million facility will host men’s and women’s hockey and men’s and women’s basketball. It will also be home to concerts, career fairs, and commencement ceremonies, as well as other community events. In addition to the main rink and seating area, the Anderson Arena also houses practice facilities and locker rooms, sports medicine suites, training rooms, team meeting areas, a ticket office, a team store, and several concession areas. It has a capacity of 4,000 in its ice hockey configuration, 5,300 in its basketball configuration, and 6,000 in its concert configuration. Food & Beverage 4 There are five concession stands at the concourse level of the lower seating bowl. These are behind the 103,110,112,116, and 123 seating sections. They include two Grab and Go stands, a pizza stand, a cheesesteak stand, and a stand featuring grilled items. A sampling of prices at these stands includes hot dogs ($7), brats ($10), nachos ($9), popcorn ($6), ice cream ($6), and candy ($5). The pizza selections include pepperoni, cheese, and BBQ, which are all priced at $16. Cheesesteaks are all priced at $16 as well. The Grill stand offers a burger basket with fries, as well as chicken tenders with fries for $17. Beverages sold at all stands include Pepsi brand sodas ($5), Gatorade ($6), and bottled water ($5). The premium seating areas have their own food service areas, including the Legacy Club and Reuben’s. Food in the premium areas ranges from buffets to snacks, desserts, and both sodas and alcoholic beverages are available. Alcohol is available for purchase by fans who are 21 years or older. There is a two-drink limit per order. Atmosphere 5 The new arena offers premium seats on the upper level of the seating bowl. These seats include the Legacy Club, the Capital Club, and Reubens. There are 12 loge boxes on the second level. Four additional private suites are available at the ice level along the glass at the base of the lower seats. The lower seating bowl encircles the ice. The seating bowl features a silver, white, and purple color palette… the team colors for St. Thomas. The facility offers an impressive electronics package, with a center-hung scoreboard/videoboard and ribbon boards lining the facing of the second level of seating. The energy level is decidedly higher than the Tommies have experienced at their off-campus venues of the past. Neighborhood 5 The University of St. Thomas campus lies in a residential neighborhood that lies just east of the Mississippi River. Its well-manicured campus does not overwhelm the homes that surround it. Lee and Penny Anderson Arena mirrors the existing Collegiate Gothic architectural style of the buildings that surround it on the University of St Thomas campus. Its exterior is constructed of Kasota limestone, and it features some bas-relief carvings of both hockey and basketball images on the exterior. The University of St. Thomas campus is located at the corner of Cretin, Summit, and Grand Avenues. Both Summit and Grand Avenues are main thoroughfares in St. Paul. The streets are lined with an impressive number of Victorian homes. There are several restaurants located just a few blocks east of the St. Thomas campus. These include Davanni’s Pizza, Groveland Tap, Carmello’s Spaghetti Room, and the French Meadow Bakery and Café. The nearby Tiffany Sports Lounge is the official sports bar for St. Thomas Athletics. Nearby lodging includes the Quality Inn St. Paul/Minneapolis/Midway, the Hampton Inn and Suites Downtown St. Paul, and the Radisson Hotel St Paul Downtown. Fans 4 The alumni and students are thrilled to have the games now on campus and have filled the arena for both basketball and hockey contests. The student section is behind the goal at one end of the rink, and they do everything they can to distract the visiting team’s communications. The school pep band is seated in this section as well, keeping the energy level high throughout the game. There are no cheerleaders at the hockey contests, but the Tommie Cat mascot does make an appearance for the pregame and between-period activities. St. Thomas Tommies Pep Band, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey The upper-level premium seating area seems to be the domain of the school alumni and the families of the players. Fans can purchase team spirit gear at the Tommie’s Locker Room Store behind section 103. While it offers a wide range of Tommie gear, it gets quite congested between periods, so plan to visit before the first puck drop. Access 4 Parking is available at the on-campus Anderson Parking Facility, as well as the McNeely and Frey parking facilities. To ease the limited parking on campus, a ticket purchase for hockey games comes with a free Metro Transit pass. This also goes towards reducing the carbon footprint of the facility. Fans enter the facility through the Iverson Atrium, which features murals of both Minneapolis and St. Paul, with the University of St. Thomas shield between them. Doors at the facility open one hour before the puck drop. Premium seat holders have a separate entrance and can enter the building 60 minutes before the game. There are elevators available for fans who have difficulty negotiating stairs. The concourses at both the main seating level and the premium seating level are wide and allow for a good flow of fans, even during the busy times between periods. Restrooms are also plentiful around the concourses. Return on Investment 3 Parking at one of the campus parking facilities can be pre-purchased for $13 on game days/nights. Fans also get a free Metro Transit bus pass to access the campus via mass transit if they choose. This is offered as a part of the agreement between the school and the residential neighborhood that surrounds the campus to reduce traffic congestion on game nights. Tickets run from $82 for premium level seating to $52 for along the glass seats and $36 for seats at the ends behind the nets. The University of St. Thomas partners with SeatGeek as its ticketing partner. While Anderson Arena offers a wide variety of food and beverages at its concession stands, the prices are much higher than if purchased at a convenience store or a fast-food restaurant. The Lee and Penny Anderson Arena operates as a cashless venue. Extras 4 The arena is named for Lee and Penny Anderson, the main benefactors of the facility, who contributed $75 million towards the total $175 million cost of the building. The building has applied for LEED Silver Certification due to its numerous energy-saving features. The Tommies are members of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association. (CCHA) There is a timeline display along the main concourse that features the many off-campus sites that have hosted the St. Thomas hockey program. Final Thoughts The opening of the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena is a major component of the University of St. Thomas’ Athletic Department’s move to the Division I level of NCAA sports. The arena serves as the home of the hockey and basketball programs for both the men’s and women’s teams.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 New ASU Stadium 500 Harris Way Montgomery, AL 36106 Alabama State Hornets website New ASU Stadium website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 26,500 Montgomery Sting The Alabama State Hornets play their home games at New ASU Stadium (or simply ASU Stadium) in Montgomery, Alabama, about a mile away from the Cramton Bowl, home of both the annual FBS Camellia Bowl and the annual FCS Kickoff game. The venue opened in 2012 and currently seats twenty-six thousand five hundred, but is expandable to fifty-five thousand if needed. The four highest attended games at ASU Stadium have all been against in-state rival Tuskegee, where the current attendance record of 27,858 came in 2019. In fact the first game ever at the facility was also versus Tuskegee, on Thanksgiving Day in 2012 and resulting in a two-point win by the Tigers, which represents the second-highest attendance ever at the stadium of 27,500. The tradition of having a Thanksgiving game at the facility (which the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL also follow) was renewed in 2021, billed as “Turkey Day Classic 21”. Food & Beverage 5 ASU Stadium has fabulous concessions options available to fans – while the main stands in the concourses along both sidelines have a more limited menu, offering only hot dogs, wings, nachos, popcorn, chips, and packaged candy, as well as bottled soda, bottled water, and frozen lemonade, where the facility excels is with the array of food trucks behind the southeast end zone, including half a dozen vendors offering items such as gelato, funnel cake, barbecue, mixed drinks, wings, etc. There is also a Dippin’ Dots stand on the home side. The most expensive items are the food truck selections (prices vary) and the wings and nachos from the main stands ($9 and $8, respectively), but everything else at the main stands comes in under $4, so it is possible to feed a group without hurting your wallet too much. Atmosphere 4 Three things make watching a Hornets game at ASU Stadium a great experience – the first is the PA announcer, who is really into the game and very excitable; he really helps draw the home crowd into the game with his loud, boisterous game calls. The second is the atmosphere around the stadium – the tailgating scene is very impressive with tents and grills galore set up outside the facility, and the street next to the stadium closed down and packed with rabid Hornets fans. Tailgating Outside New ASU Stadium, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey The third thing, though, which is a real treat, is watching the Majestic, Mighty, Marching Hornets perform at halftime – most HBCUs have great marching bands, but the Hornets take it to the next level with multiple formations, including spelling out the word “Blues” as a tribute to the popular music genre, and four drum majors who dance with swagger and pizzazz. The Marching Hornets are accompanied by the Stingettes and the Honey-Bees, the ASU dance team and cheerleaders, who also both give great performances. For some games you may also be lucky enough to see two HBCU bands perform at halftime, depending on who the Hornets’ opponent is that day. Neighborhood 4 ASU Stadium is located on Alabama State’s campus and mostly surrounded by other campus building and athletic fields, but is bordered on the north by I-85, with Jackson Hospital located on the other side of the freeway within sight of the sports venue. As such there isn’t much in the way of restaurants or hotels in the immediate vicinity, but from a historical perspective there are plenty of museums and attractions nearby, given the history of the city of Montgomery. The state capitol is not far away, and you can also find the first white house of the Confederacy and the Dr. Martin Luther King home/Dexter Parsonage museum. More well-known are several other civil rights museums, including the Rosa Parks and Freedom Ride museums, which are definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. And for the music and literary fans among us, there is also the Hank Williams museum and the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald museum. Fans 3 Most games at ASU Stadium draw between 10,000 and 15,000 fans (about 50-60% full), with only a few contests here drawing 20,000 or more (most notably games against Tuskegee). Attendance of course depends on how well the Hornets are doing at that point in the season, as well as who their opponent is for that day. The fans who are here, however, tend to be pretty into the game, and you will see plenty of ASU gear in the stands and in the concourse. Many fans tend to come into the game late (since they are still partying outside during kickoff), so expect to see the stands most full around the middle of the second quarter. For games again local opponents you will of course see plenty of attendees wearing the opposing team’s colors, sitting on the visitors side. Access 3 Getting to ASU Stadium is pretty simple given that the venue is literally right next to I-85, but concessions lines are pretty long in the concourses, so you might try heading over to the other concourse, or to the food trucks in the end zone, to see if you can find a shorter line. It also helps if you get to the game early and get your snacks before most of the fans arrive from the tailgates. There are plenty of bathrooms to accommodate the crowd, however, and there is plenty of room in the stands, so you should be able to sit pretty much wherever you want – the tickets do have assigned seats, but since the stands are usually only half full or less you don’t necessarily have to sit where you are supposed to. Fans also also welcome to sit in the berm, on the hill behind the northwest end zone. There isn’t really any parking right next to the stadium unless you have a pass, but there is plenty of parking to be found along Carter Hill Road (on the south side of the stadium) for $20 or less depending on how far you want to walk – the $20 parking is the closest I found, and wasn’t too bad of a distance from the facility. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for ASU Hornets football start at $25, which is a pretty good deal for college football – I have rarely seen tickets at this level go for under $20, so $25 is not bad, and a lot less than other FCS stadiums. Given the experience you will have including the PA announcer and the halftime performances, I think this is a pretty solid return on investment for your sports dollar. Extras 3 ASU has a great mascot and a nice facility that is new enough not to look dated. There are tents with club seating behind the southeast end zone, and the bleachers are raised a little above the field to make it easy to see the action. There is also a large scoreboard behind the northwest end zone which makes it easy to see replays even from the far side. Final Thoughts ASU Stadium is definitely worth a visit – the modern facility may not have everything you would want at a sports venue, but it is a great place to spend a fall afternoon, and allows fans to get really close to the action. If you are in the Montgomery area, make time to cheer on the Hornets – go ASU!

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Veterans Memorial Stadium 338 Veterans Stadium Dr Troy, AL 36081 Troy Trojans website Veterans Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 30,470 We Are Trojans, One and All In Greek mythology, Helen of Troy was the spark that ignited the Trojan War. In southern Alabama, the name Troy carries a different kind of battle. Each fall, Troy University takes the field with the same pride and determination that defined the legendary city. Veterans Memorial Stadium transforms into a modern battleground, where the Trojans defend their home turf on Saturday afternoons throughout the season. Troy University has a football history that stretches back to 1909, when the program first took the field as Troy State Teachers College. The team competed at the small college level for decades, as members of the Gulf South Conference. Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey The program’s first major national success came in 1968, when Troy captured its first NAIA National Championship. The athletics program would jump to NCAA Division II status in 1971 and would see a second national title follow in 1984, and a third in 1987. Under legendary coach Larry Blakeney, who led the program from 1991 to 2014, Troy made the jump to Division I-AA (now FCS) in 1993, and then to Division I-A (now FBS) in 2001, joining the Sun Belt Conference. Since moving to FBS, Troy has become a consistent contender in the Sun Belt, winning multiple conference titles and making numerous bowl appearances. The program has produced NFL talent and established itself as one of the stronger “Group of 5” programs, blending a proud tradition with a growing national profile.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions around the stadium aren’t overly adventurous, but they easily take care of any mid-game hunger or sweet craving. The main menu sticks to the familiar staples – hot dogs, burgers, and nachos – with a bit of variety added by the pizza slices offered at the stands on the stadium’s south end. The south end food truck is the clear fan favorite, dishing out midway-style fried options that draws a long line which doesn’t seem to get much shorter the entire game. Alcohol selections include the usual domestic choices and strawberry or lime Ritas, plus a couple of local pours from Folklore Brewing & Meadery; their Troy-branded Trojan Ale, a session blonde, and Blakeney’s Brew, an amber honoring 2025 College Football Hall of Famer Larry Blakeney, add a welcome touch of local flavor.   Atmosphere   3 Veterans Memorial Stadium has a primary seating horseshoe where the main level is built into the ground level, with each side topped by an upper level of seating which runs the length of the field. The completion of the North End Zone Facility in 2018 enclosed the stadium, giving it a cozier feel. Each side features a second deck, with a slight overhang on the home side. Seats tucked underneath that overhang lose sight of the main scoreboard on the north end, though the smaller video board in the southeast corner helps fill the gap. Most of the seating consists of aluminum benches, except for the home side upper level, which offers individual seatbacks between the 25-yard lines. Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey The stadium has two video boards: a large one above the Allen E. Owen III Terrace on the north end and a smaller board in the southeast corner. The north board also provides basic yardage totals, while ribbon boards along both upper decks offer simple in-game stats. A major boost to the atmosphere comes from Troy’s marching band, “The Sound of the South,” which remains front and center throughout the game. At a time when many stadiums lean heavily on pre-recorded music, the band here is still a driving part of Troy’s game day identity. Media breaks are filled with fan engagement moments and tributes to both Troy legends and current athletes, keeping the energy steady from start to finish.   Neighborhood   3 Veterans Memorial Stadium sits within the main athletics neighborhood of Troy’s campus, bordered by Trojan Arena  and baseball’s Riddle-Pace Field . Troy’s town square is about a mile and a half from the stadium, and while the immediate area is not packed with entertainment, Troy and the rest of Pike County offer more than thirty historical markers, highlighting everything from the birthplace of congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis to local war memorials and pieces of the region’s story. Downtown Troy may be small, but it provides a solid mix of shops and eateries that see a noticeable uptick in foot traffic on game days. Fans can find southern comfort food at B Graves, burgers at The Corner, Italian fare at Franchesca’s, Cajun dishes at Bayou La Roux, and the ever-popular Mama Goldberg’s deli. In addition, within a block of the square Moe’s serves up BBQ and Flo’s Kitchen offers casual American plates, giving visitors a nice range of choices despite the compact footprint.   Fans   3 Troy is a town of about 19,000 people, with roughly 33,000 in all of Pike County, so the Trojans don’t have a massive population to pull from. Even so they average around 25,000 fans per game, placing them in the upper half of the Sun Belt and showing just how strong the local support can be. Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey The student section deserves particular credit, packing in behind the visiting sideline and giving Troy a genuine home-field boost.   Access   4 Troy, Alabama sits in something of an oasis when it comes to interstate access. US-231 is the most direct route into town, whether coming off I-85 east of Montgomery or connecting from US-29 after heading down from I-65 to the west. Around campus golf carts are the preferred method of transportation. They are a noticeable part of Troy’s game day culture, and that extends beyond football; Troy baseball games often see long rows of carts parked beyond the outfield fence. The stadium is not walkable all the way around, but the main seating areas are easy to reach. The home side features ramps leading to both the field level and upper deck, making those sections accessible and manageable for fans with mobility challenges.   Return on Investment   4 General admission seats start at just $20, which feels right in line for a Sun Belt matchup and offers solid value for a full college football Saturday. Stadium parking comes in at $25, slightly on the high side, but not far off what many comparable programs charge. Lots just off campus can also be found for a bit less, giving fans a more budget-friendly option if they do not mind a short walk. Concession prices are also reasonable, making it easy for fans to grab a drink or quick bite without feeling like they are overspending. When you factor in the quality of the atmosphere, the strong turnout, and the overall game day setup, the total cost of attending a Troy game lands in a very fair place, especially for families or fans looking for an affordable college football experience.   Extras   3 Long before the gates of Veterans Memorial Stadium open, fans gather just beyond the right center field fence in the Green Davis Tailgating Terrace for grilling, music, and the early buildup to game day. It is a lively scene that stretches well into the afternoon and sets the tone for the experience inside. Around the stadium, graphics highlighting Troy’s Sun Belt championships and their three National Titles (1968, 1984, and 1987) give fans a quick look at the program’s proud history; this is a simple but effective nod to the Trojans’ legacy. Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey T-Roy, the ever-present Trojan mascot, makes his rounds early as well, popping up throughout the tailgate area outside the main gates. His pregame appearances add a fun, familiar touch before fans stream into the stadium.   Final Thoughts Football at the Group of 5 level can be hit or miss when it comes to the game day experience, but a day at Troy University rarely disappoints. While the campus is somewhat remote and local entertainment options are limited, the pregame tailgate more than makes up for it. Fans can enjoy live music, inflatables, and the traditional Trojan Walk through the Green Davis Tailgate Terrace, plenty to keep everyone entertained leading up to kickoff. Once inside Veterans Memorial Stadium, the overall experience delivers everything fans would expect from a classic college football day: spirited fans, a lively atmosphere, and the energy of Troy football that fills the venue.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey You are not alone if you have never heard of a Spanish dog. The spicy, tangy sauce does not originate from Spain but was created somewhere in the United States. However, it has a strong connection with the city of Logansport, Indiana, making it possibly the “Spanish Dog Capital of the World.” Various locations serve a Spanish dog, from drive-in root beer stands to sit-down restaurants. All prepare their sauces daily and with secret recipes. The tomatoey sauce resembles a coney or chili sauce--but don’t dare call it that--it is Spanish sauce, and that is how it’s been as far as anyone remembers. Brenda Graham has been one of the owners of Brenda and Kim’s B&K West for almost 40 years and produces close to 40 pounds of the sauce. She has never known any other name for the meat sauce that is ladled over anywhere from 3,500 to 3,800 hot dogs on a busy day. “It was called that when I worked at B&K 40 years ago. I’m thinking the name comes from the fact that it doesn’t have beans; it’s not chili sauce. That is just speculation. I honestly have no idea why it is called that.” The Berry Bowl menu offers Spanish sauce on hot dogs and nachos. The uber-regional style of hot dogs can be traced back to 1935 to a Hastings, Nebraska, story in The Morning Spotlight, where it mentioned that Spanish hot dogs were served following an American Red Cross meeting. The following year, an advertisement in the Kokomo Tribune highlighted that it was “now in Kokomo for the first time” at an Izzy & Don restaurant on 1510 North Washington Street. The ad ended by telling readers: “They’re different. They’re good. Take a sack home.” The connection to Logansport started in 1937 with several ads in the Pharos-Tribune newspaper archives online. There are at least 38 different mentions of independent shops: long-lost establishments included, Ricci’s, Logan Double Dip Shop, Butch’s Bar-B-Que, Lenon’s, Klinck Drive Inn, and The Spanish Hot Dog Stand on Eighteenth and Market Streets. The hot dogs cost a nickel. The sauce was also sold at grocery stores to prepare at home with ground beef. They were then popular at various eateries 30 minutes away in Kokomo. After World War II, a popular root beer stand would popularize the Spanish dog in the Midwest. Melvin and Mary Bergerson launched the first B&K Root Beer Drive-In in Wabash, Indiana, in 1940. It soon expanded and reached a peak of 238 independently owned establishments in neighboring Michigan and Ohio. The locations were also known for homemade draft root beer served in a frosty mug. According to The Great American Hot Dog Book, Mary “devised the special B&K Spanish sauce recipe” that was a milder version of a coney sauce at the Wabash, Indiana, location. Many believed that Mary coined the name to describe its sweet, tangy, and somewhat spicy flavor profiles that may have included some of the B&K homemade root beer. However, the name had been used since at least 1937 in Logansport and sold well before the first B-K location opened in 1940. The Spanish sauce is not a sauce but a combination of hamburger meat and tomato sauce, or ketchup, along with spices and onions. An item called the Spanish burger was sold in parts of the country as early as 1912, and it is most likely that someone ladled it over a hot dog soon after, adopting the name. Due to the popularity of B-K stands, many other chains began developing their versions throughout the state during the 1950s and 1960s. However, in Logansport, it spread to other non-B-K stands that continue to sell them to this day. The Sycamore Drive-In is known for its ice cream creations but has its version of the Spanish sauce. The Sycamore Drive-In has been offering them on its menus for over 70 years; the restaurant is known for its homemade custard, along with attractive items named coffee whip and tally ho. “The name Spanish sauce has been around since the time we opened in 1948, and we have stuck with it since then,” stated owner Bailey Graham, his sauce is slightly different from other locations. “Just like certain regions of the U.S. people refer to Spanish dogs as coney dogs, we have always referred to them as Spanish dogs.” The Spanish dog is prevalent in Logansport, and one can choose from other locations: Mr. Happy Burger, Charr-Bett Drive-In , and the Bob-O Link Drive-In , a few miles north in Royal Center. A collection of ads for Spanish Hot Dogs dating back to 1937. The home of the Logansport High School basketball team, the Berry Bowl even has a homemade recipe that is uncommon for a high school concession stand. The volunteer staff stated that it’s one of its best sellers, but many come from out of town and ask about the sauce and its name. “Growing up, I just figured everyone said Spanish dogs,” added Logansport basketball coach Steve Isaacs.” We had two B&K stands in Logansport, and they called them that too. A lot of people here have their special recipes for Spanish sauce.” Is there a difference between coney sauce and Spanish sauce, since they are used interchangeably at many B-K locations? According to Titus Ruscitti, who runs his website Smokin’ Chokin’ and Chowing with the King, there is a difference. “Most Spanish sauces I’ve tried have more tomatoey than most coney sauces. It is the same thing with chili in the Midwest. It’s always very tomatoey. I would say they’re different. I’ve mostly only seen Spanish sauce in Indiana. I know there are spots in Ohio, but I see it regularly in the area a little north of Central Indiana but a little south of NW Indiana.” Gene's is located 75 miles southwest of Logansport in Anderson, Indiana, but uses the term Spanish Hot Dog. A handful of B&K locations are open from March to October in Muncie, Peru, Marion, Kokomo, Wabash, and Troy, Ohio, that feature either a Spanish or coney dog on its old-fashioned menu boards with a few exceptions. The Wabash location offers both sauces for its hot dogs, but according to staff members, it is the Spanish sauce that is more popular. The Rochester and Troy locations refer to the two sauces by the same name. The Kokomo location uses the term coney dogs. The name was not coined, but popularized at B-K locations after World War II; it became a popular item in various locations in the Midwest throughout the 1950s, while for some reason, it spread to other establishments in Logansport and became part of the populace lexicon, but no many other nearby towns. To most people, it has been the name used their entire lives. “Spanish sauce has a reputation here in Logansport,” added Graham, who uses the sauce to cover nachos, fries, and sausage sandwiches. “We have people come in from Kokomo, Lafayette, and even from Kentucky just to try a Spanish dog, just because they can’t get them where they live.” Is Logansport the “Spanish Dog Capital of the World”? Perhaps that might be a bold statement, but with at least five locations in the area spooning their homemade recipe over hot dogs and nachos, it may be somewhat hard to argue another town that deserves such a distinction. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter  and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 The Arena at Innovation Mile 14157 CJ Way Noblesville, IN 46060 Noblesville Boom website The Arena at Innovation Mile website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 3,400 Noblesville Boom Explodes onto the Scene The Arena at Innovation Mile houses the NBA G-League’s Noblesville Boom, offering modern design, amenities, and an intimate setting that brings fans close to the action. ​Opened in November 2025, the city-owned Arena serves as the focal point of Innovation Mile, envisioned as a year-round destination blending economic, cultural, and entertainment activities to create a vibrant district. ​More than just a new venue, it’s a statement—an energetic showcase of what a next-generation minor league arena can be. From the moment you walk through its glass-lined entrance, the Arena promises an experience that’s equal parts excitement, community, and big-league ambition. Food & Beverage 4 There are plenty of high-end options on the main concourse that include grab-and-go options, small kiosks,  and traditional concession stands. Fans will enjoy everything from a hot dog, cold beer, chicken sandwiches, and barbecue nachos. The two full-time concession stands are on the northeast and northwest sides of the upper concourse: Hometown Eats and the Deer Creek Cafe. ​ Fans can enjoy cheese and pepperoni pizza, along with an Italian melt sandwich that is made exclusively for the venue. There are also double smashed burgers and chicken tenders that include a side of fries. Other menu options include barbecue nachos and sandwiches featuring pulled chicken or pork. Prices range from $11.99 to $14.99. ​ The traditional items include hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, soda, and alcoholic beverages. A Chick-fil-A kiosk sells sandwiches and waffle chips, and sweet treats include cotton candy, caramel apples, and the Harvest pretzel with chocolate, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbles. These prices range from $3.99 to $12.99. ​ Fans can purchase 20-ounce cans of macro and micro beers at the grab-and-go area. The options include Miller Lite, Coors Light, Bud, Michelob Ultra, along local Sun King Pale Ale. White Claw, Angry Orchard, High Noon, and Sun Cruiser canned cocktails are available. ​ Atmosphere 4 ​The Arena offers seating for 3,400 people and is among the smaller venues in the G-League. However, in an area where it competes with the NBA, college, and high school basketball, it might be the ideal size. The facility offers perfect views from all of its seats, easy access around the concourse, and a friendly staff to assist with any questions. ​ The main entrance and lobby are among its best features. The glass lobby welcomes fans inside an area where two escalators bring them up to the seating bowl. Large LED screens flank the area, with images of the team logo and the starting lineup, making it the true home of the Boom. ​ There is not a bad seat in the house, and many levels of the concourse are wide enough to move traffic along and get a vantage point of the court. The seats are soft and cushioned, a giant video board keeps stats and displays information throughout the game, and fans can enjoy a look at future Pacers players. ​ The game day staff throws out t-shirts throughout the game, bangs a giant drum before the game, and Bobby the Bobcat, the official team mascot, gets the crowd going, waving a giant Boom flag. He also makes his way around the court, giving high-fives and taking photos with fans of all ages. Neighborhood 4 The Innovation Mile District is a rapidly developing corridor on the southeast side of Noblesville, designed as a modern hub for sports, technology, entertainment, and community growth. Anchored along a one-mile stretch of East 141st Street, the district blends sleek, future-focused architecture with the welcoming, small-town character that the town is known for in the area. ​ However, less than a mile away is the Hamilton Town Center . The outside mall features a collection of familiar shops, along with a selection of eateries that include Chuy’s , which specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine, and Ford’s Garage f or burgers, wings, and pub food. There is also Houlihans , Livery , and Stone Creek Dining Company . ​ About five miles south on I-69 is the Fishers Event Center, which is home to the   Indy Fuel ECHL  team, the   Indy Ignite Major League Volleyball   team, and the   Fishers Freight Indoor Football League . The seasons crisscross one another, making it an option for a sports weekend in the Northeast Suburbs of Indianapolis. ​ Fans 3 The team has played only a handful of games in Noblesville, but it is safe to say that the local populace will embrace the Boom. Opening night was a sell-out, and games have been well attended since. The G-League team provides the opportunity for Pacer fans to see future players in the small court and another entertainment option away from downtown. Access 3 The arena is designed with the main entrance at ground level and the main concourse on the upper level. Escalators and elevators take patrons to the seating bowls, and a majority of the aisles are big enough for easy access to concession areas and individual seats. ​ There is a parking deck next to the arena, along with an unpaved parking lot to the south of the building. There has been some congestion with traffic before and after the game, but that could just be first-night jitters. The traffic flow will improve over time. Return on Investment 3 The average price per ticket on the   website TickPick   is between $23-$29, depending on the night. A few games can be below $20, but it will depend on the time of purchase. The cost to park at the game is $7, but if you purchase in advance on the ParkWhiz  website , it is a dollar less. ​ Food prices are similar to other venues of its caliber, especially down the street at the   Fishers Event Center . A double smash burger and fries is $13.99, while a can of macro beer is $8.99. A hot dog is $6.49. It is a cashless venue. Extras 2 The main entrance and lobby are quite elegant and feature plenty of LED visuals and lighting.  The team colors are the same as the Pacers, blue and gold, but also teal. The third color provides a nice little pop to the arena. Final Thoughts The Arena at Innovation Mile is the perfect size for an NBA G-League franchise and offers a different experience to other venues in the league. The proximity to the parent Pacers club will make the Boom a fan favorite for years to come.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Mississippi Coast Coliseum 2350 Beach Blvd Biloxi, MS 39531 Biloxi Breakers website Mississippi Coast Coliseum website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 9,150 Welcome to Breaker Bay It’s a new era for hockey on the Gulf Coast. The Sea Wolves have sailed off, and from the warm waters of the Gulf has emerged something new – the Biloxi Breakers, the newest franchise in the FPHL. Hockey’s roots along the Mississippi Coast trace back to 1996, when the original Sea Wolves took the ice as one of the ECHL’s most exciting teams. From 1996 to 2005, and again from 2007 to 2009, they electrified fans at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, packing the stands nightly and delivering a Kelly Cup championship in 1999, a remarkable milestone for a market few expected to embrace hockey. Hurricane Katrina eventually brought that era to an end, though the Sea Wolves made a brief return before the Mississippi Surge carried the torch. The Surge competed in the SPHL from 2009 to 2012, keeping hockey alive on the Coast until their closure left the Coliseum without a home team for nearly a decade. A flicker of hope returned in 2021 when a series of sold-out neutral-site FPHL games in Biloxi proved the passion for hockey still burned strong along the coast. The Sea Wolves were reborn in 2022, but the revival was marred by ownership instability, revolving coaches and players, and inconsistent front-office leadership. Despite fan loyalty, the product on the ice never quite matched the glory days of the original franchise. Then, finally, after the 2024–25 season, new ownership stepped in, ushering in a fresh new identity for Gulf Coast hockey: the Biloxi Breakers. The name pays homage to the power and beauty of the Gulf itself, the waves that crash and reform endlessly along the shoreline: a symbol of strength, renewal, and motion. Just as those waves carve new paths into the sand, the Breakers aim to carve a new legacy in the Gulf Coast’s hockey history.   Food and Beverage   3 The Coliseum has six permanent concession stands, though only two are typically open for Breakers games. The primary stand, Gulf Coast Eats, offers a familiar arena menu – burgers, chicken tender baskets, nachos, jumbo pretzels, hot dogs, and popcorn. Two bar areas on the concourse also provide a wide range of drink options, including canned cocktails, domestic beers like Miller Lite and Coors Lite, and premium selections such as Blue Moon, Truly, Flying Llama IPA, Modelo, Corona, and Yuengling. Coca-Cola products serve as the arena’s soft-drink choices. The concourse also includes two food carts; the first offers mac and cheese bowls or brisket and pulled-pork sandwiches, for fans wanting something more substantial. The other, The Penalty Box, highlights Southern-style desserts like bread pudding and peach cobbler. You can even cap things off with a Barq’s root beer float – a fitting option, considering Barq’s was famously created just down the road, also in Biloxi.   Atmosphere   3 The Breakers play at the 9,150-seat Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi. The large, beige, stucco building opened in 1977 and has become a symbol of the Mississippi Coast. The Coliseum is often featured in aerial shots of Biloxi along with the city’s impressive casinos and the historic Biloxi Lighthouse. The venue is the typical mid-sized city’s civic center of the 70s and 80s, lacking some of the amenities found at some of hockey’s newer arenas. Regardless, the Coliseum is still the largest arena in Breaker’s 14-team conference. The ice faces north and south with a two-level seating bowl, as well as a wraparound concourse so you can walk around the entire arena. There are no suites or club levels; instead, the floor level features four makeshift suite areas on the south end of the venue. The north side features a seating area with high-end stools and cocktail tables. The concourse on the first floor also features a merchandise stand which sells a few items, such as shirts and pucks, but definitely not as much merchandise as they had back in the Sea Wolf days. When the Sea Wolves returned, they brought back all the nostalgia of the original Sea Wolves.  The Breakers brought a lot over from the Sea Wolves days, like the playing of Europe’s “The Final Countdown” at the start of the 3rd period. In addition, the iconic Sea Wolf mascot Hook has been brought back in the same mascot costume from the original franchise, except now he dons a blue Breaker shirt. Hook is a constant presence at Breakers games and is always seen in the crowd. Hopefully, in a few years, the Breakers will get their own ‘wave’ type mascot, who will roam around the Coliseum with Hook.   Neighborhood   5 Hockey, beaches, and casinos – Biloxi offers a mix you won’t find in many hockey towns. This small coastal city is known for its world-class casino scene and legendary seafood. Though Biloxi was wiped off the map by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the city has rebuilt and reinvented itself, earning back its nickname “Vegas of the South.” Today, the Coast has 10 casinos, each with its own personality, making the Coast and Biloxi a popular destination for travelers across the Southeast looking for a lively but affordable getaway. Mississippi Coast Coliseum sits just a few miles from Casino Row, and because Biloxi is so close together, that’s only about a 10 to 15-minute drive. Even better, the arena is less than 100 yards from the beach; close enough to walk over from the shoreline and be inside for puck drop within minutes. And while the Mississippi Sound’s waters aren’t quite as clear as those along Florida or Alabama’s Gulf Coast, the area still offers plenty to do – boat rides to the barrier islands, excellent fishing, and wide sandy beaches perfect for a pregame stroll. Directly across from the coliseum is Beauvoir, the beautifully maintained final home of Jefferson Davis. Built in 1848, the estate sits on 52 scenic acres that include a museum, cemetery, and veterans’ home. Every October, the grounds host a large Civil War reenactment that draws visitors from across the region. Just down the road stands another Biloxi landmark, the Biloxi Lighthouse. Erected in 1847, it remains one of the city’s most recognizable symbols and is open for daily tours. Along with these historical treasures, Biloxi boasts a diverse dining scene, from upscale steak and seafood houses inside the casinos to casual beachfront eateries and locally loved seafood spots throughout downtown and the coast. Biloxi doesn’t have a large number of traditional chain hotels, as most of the lodging options are tied to the casinos or the upscale beachfront hotels. If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations, however, head just north to D'Iberville, located right off I-10; it offers several familiar chains and lower-cost options, while still keeping you close to the Coast.   Fans   3 In their final season, the Sea Wolves averaged around 2,100 fans per game, ranking 9th in the FPHL. Years of losing, constant roster changes, and front-office issues clearly took a toll. With the arrival of the Biloxi Breakers, however, the franchise finally gets a reset, and early signs point toward improvement. New sponsors now line the boards, including local casinos and Beauvoir, and the team’s weekly YouTube show is even filmed at the Hard Rock Casino, giving the organization a more polished feel. Breakers games attract a wide mix of fans: local families, military members, casino visitors, snowbirds, and longtime supporters wearing everything from old Sea Wolves jerseys to throwbacks from former I-10 ECHL teams like the Pensacola Ice Pilots (now Ice Flyers ), Mobile Mysticks, Jackson Bandits, New Orleans Brass, and Baton Rouge Kingfish. NHL jerseys are common too, showing the crowd’s genuine knowledge of the sport.  The Coliseum also blocks the upper level off for Breakers games, forcing the fans to sit in the lower bowl; that’s something they did not do for Sea Wolves games. The in-game experience is solid. Danger, the emcee, keeps the crowd engaged with contests like hockey cornhole, trivia, and finish-the-lyric challenges. During a recent game, a Breakers player recorded a hat trick, and fans continued the tradition of tossing hats onto the ice. With a stronger roster and more stability than the final Sea Wolves teams, the Breakers appear to be heading in a positive direction, both on the ice and in the stands.   Access   3 Biloxi is kind of off the beaten path, about an hour and a half east of New Orleans and about an hour west of Mobile. The Coliseum is located on Beach Blvd/Highway 90, about 8 miles south of the interstate. Navigating the side roads from the interstate to the beach can be kind of confusing, not to mention the closer to the beach you get, the worse the traffic will get. The best exit for the arena would be to take Cedar Lake Road at Exit 44, then travel south for about 8 miles until you hit Pass Road, one of the main roads through Biloxi. Pass Road runs east and west and will often have traffic congestion and road work going on – from there, turn south onto Beauvoir Road, and the Coliseum sits to the right. You could also take the scenic route on Highway 90/Beach Blvd; this route runs east and west over 50 miles through eight small coastal beach towns, with Biloxi located right in the middle. This highway runs along the beach, and on the way, you’ll pass casinos, seafood restaurants, small towns, and historic sights; I recommend this route if you have a lot of time. Parking can be kind of hectic when there is an event going on at the convention center attached to the Coliseum. There is plenty of parking around the property and even a parking garage, but the grounds are huge, so you may have to walk a bit if you park in the back lots, if there is another event going on next door.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets are easy to come by for Breakers games and are a great bargain – seating is separated into two sections: the lower bowl, plus four rows of removable bleachers in front of the seating bowl. All the tickets to sit in the lower bowl are general admission, priced at $19 each. Concession prices are kind of high, but in today’s day and age, concessions at arenas are always high. However, factoring in the great views from anywhere in the Coliseum and the Breakers always putting on an enjoyable experience, I consider this a great return on investment. You are also getting to see the only professional hockey team in the state of Mississippi.  Few places offer the chance to stroll along the beach in 70-degree winter weather and be inside watching hockey less than ten minutes later, but that’s exactly what you can do at most Breakers games.   Extras   4 One extra for the Breakers, keeping a bit of Sea Wolves legacy alive – they’ve brought back Hook, the original mascot from the team’s earlier era. Mississippi Coast Coliseum is also stepping into the college hockey scene in 2025, as the home rink of the Tulane Men’s Club Hockey Team; with no dedicated ice facility in New Orleans, Tulane now plays its home games in Biloxi. In fact, just a few days before the Breakers game I most recently attended, Tulane faced off against the LSU Club Hockey Team on this very ice. A local nonprofit, New Orleans Hockey, has been instrumental in growing the sport across the Gulf Coast by organizing pickup games and operating the Gulf Coast Hockey League, a full-service amateur league that also calls the Coliseum home. Together, these efforts are strengthening hockey’s presence in both the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the New Orleans region, momentum that could eventually help bring a professional team to New Orleans. If you’re interested in ghosts and the paranormal, then the Mississippi Coast Coliseum is supposedly haunted. The Coliseum is less than 50 years old, but it was built on the site of an old orphanage that was located here in the 1940s; before that, it was part of the property of Beauvoir next door. That fact, factored into the cemetery located right off the property, has only increased ghost sightings even more on the grounds of the Coliseum. In fact, in 2022, the Sci-Fi Channel’s Ghost Hunters even visited the Coliseum and found tons of evidence supporting the claims that it is haunted; the convention center and the south side of the building are the parts of the building with the most activity, so be on the lookout for ghosts if you attend a Breakers game. Mississippi Coast Coliseum has also been the Coast’s premiere indoor entertainment venue for many years, as it is the largest indoor multi-purpose venue in Mississippi south of Jackson. The venue has hosted a ton of events over the years, including postseason conference basketball tournaments, WWE and WCW events, NBA preseason games, and an indoor football and soccer team, as well as concerts such as Guns N’ Roses, Allman Brothers, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett, Ray Charles, Aerosmith, Elton John, Johnny Cash, and Kiss. Another extra just for how far this region has come since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. With the Biloxi Shuckers playing in a beautiful ballpark downtown and hockey returning to the Coast, Biloxi is becoming a minor-league sports destination on top of already being a top-notch entertainment destination, despite being a small town with less than 50,000 people. It’s been interesting watching the city return to its former glory compared to how this place looked 20 years ago.