Stadium Info FANFARE SCORE: 3.29 Gila River Arena 9400 W Maryland Ave Glendale, AZ 85305 Map It Arizona Coyotes website Gila River Arena website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 17,799 Los Yotes The Arizona Coyotes hockey team began as the Winnipeg Jets in 1972. Due to financial troubles, the Jets team moved to Phoenix in 1996 and became the Phoenix Coyotes. (Thankfully, Winnipeg now has a successful NHL team – one not to be missed when visiting NHL arenas). In 2014, the Coyotes changed their name from the Phoenix Coyotes to the Arizona Coyotes to be all-inclusive of Arizona and for marketing purposes. The Coyotes first played at the America West Arena, now named the Footprint Center, before relocating to the Glendale Arena (now known as Gila River Arena) midway during the 2003–04 NHL season. The lease with the city of Glendale expires at the end of the 2021-2022 season. The city is not offering to renew it. In September 2021, the team submitted a proposal to the city of Tempe for a $1.7 billion arena and entertainment complex. Many fans are excited about a new hockey arena on the east side of town. That motion is still in the works and plans for a temporary home while a new building is under construction have not been announced. Stadium Journey says one final goodbye to Gila River Arena. Food & Beverage 4 Gila River Arena has a wide variety of food selections; much more than your standard stadium fare. The arena is leaning towards using local restaurants for their concessions. The choices are much more preferable and varied on the first level than on the second level. Examples include: Blue Line Deli sells tasty chicken Caesar salad, meatball heroes, and soppressata Caprese sandwiches ($12 – $13). Brat Haus (home of the big weenie) provides brats, burgers, and beer. Gadzooks sells its signature tacos. Streets of New York Pizza sells chicken wings and personal size pizza (including gluten free) for $7 – $13. The Goal Line and the Center Ice stands provide the standard stadium fare of hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, pretzels, and candy, which run from $5 (candy) to $13 (souvenir popcorn). Various carts like Wetzel Pretzels and Maui Wowi line the concourses. Domestic and premium beers cost $13 – $14; Pepsi products are a pricey $8 with bottled water $6. Not quite sure why the city of Glendale didn’t put an Arizona Brewery stand on the concourse but instead one from San Diego – Saint Archer Brewing Company. It offers cocktails, hard seltzer, and draft beers. All concessions are cashless. Atmosphere 4 Gila River Arena and the Coyotes provide a noteworthy game day experience. The arena has three levels of seating with suites between the first and second levels. Drink rails are provided on the second level (quite nice); though there are none on the first level (too bad). Loge Boxes and Loge Tables are in place of where drink rails would be on the first level. Fans can walk the entire concourse on both the first and second levels. The steps are very steep on the second level; handrails are provided. Fans enter at the top of the concourses and then walk down to their seat rows with row A the closest row to the rink. The seats themselves are average width; there is almost no leg room between the rows. In 2018, the city of Glendale (owner of the arena) and ASM Global (the organization that operates the Coyotes) installed a respectable, larger center hung scoreboard; it is the perfect size for the arena and provides fans with nice clear, crisp images and video simulcasts and replays. Closed captioning was not offered at the game Stadium Journey visited, but we were told it is normally on the ribbon board in the four corners of the rink. The concourse columns have player images imprinted on them. Arizona high school, college, and club team jerseys are attractively hung in the main entrance area of the concourse. Seven former Coyotes players and Wayne Gretzky are recognized in Ring of Honor displayed on the facing above the top level of seats. Shane Doan #19 is the only Coyotes player’s number retired so far. The temperature is quite pleasant in the arena. More NHL hockey arenas should take note. It is not cold in the rink and only a sweatshirt or jacket is needed. The music volume level is acceptable. Fans can have conversations during stoppages of play without yelling at each other except, of course, after a Coyotes goal when there’s a loud cannon boom and a whole lot of noise and welcomed cheering. Neighborhood 5 The neighborhood is the Westgate Entertainment District, an outdoor mall and leisure activity zone which includes the rink, a movie theater, restaurants, live music, breweries, bars, shops, people watching, hotels, and more. These are all situated across the plaza of Gila River Arena. Places in the district for a pre-game meal or drink include Yard House, State 48 Funk House Brewery, Fat Tuesdays, and McFaddens. Be sure to check their website for happy hour specials; some of them do not include event days or weekends. First Watch (breakfast/lunch), Manna Korean BBQ, Opa Life (Greek), Salt Tacos y Tequila, Whiskey Rose, Hot N Juicy Crawfish are all just steps away from the arena. Plenty of fast food establishments like Chipotle, Crumbl (cookies), Cold Stone Creamery, Dutch Bros Cofee, Five Guys, etc. are also in the mall area. For other things to do, a Dave and Buster’s and an AMC movie theater are in the mall area. The Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley is less than a mile from the arena. Historic Downtown Glendale is just about five miles from Gila River. It has a few blocks of shops, antiques, crafts, a civic center, places to eat, and more. During hockey season, the weather is almost always pleasant, so visiting downtown is a way to pass an hour or two. Hotels within walking distance of the arena include Hampton Inn and Suites, Home2Suites, Renaissance, and Aloft. More affordable hotels are just across Glendale Ave (still less than a mile distance) and include Residence Inn, Staybridge, Townplace, and Holiday Inn Express. Other sports nearby during hockey season include the Arizona Cardinals football (across the parking lot from Gila River Arena). Grand Canyon University is a little over eight miles where sports fans can watch their baseball and very successful basketball teams. Peoria Sports Complex is eight miles north on Loop 101 where the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres hold their spring training. The LA Dodgers and Chicago White Sox play their spring training games at nearby Camelback Ranch . Both of those stadiums also host Arizona Fall League games. Fans 3 Arizona Coyotes fans are a faithful bunch. You’ll see all kinds of the various Coyotes team jerseys worn as well as many other NHL team jerseys. The fans are polite and enjoy their team. No worries about getting hassled if wearing an opposing team’s jersey. Attendance dropped down to about 75% capacity in the late 2010s, but when Alex Meruelo took over the ownership in 2019, and with a winning season, attendance grew to 85% capacity (until COVID hit). Arizona Coyotes fans are excited about the new ownership as they had experienced instability and even bankruptcy in previous ownerships. Access 2 Gila River Arena isn’t in downtown Phoenix but 13 miles in the northwest suburb of Glendale, right off Loop 101 and right next door to State Farm Stadium (home of the NFL Arizona Cardinals). The closest airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, about 20 miles. Parking is abundant at $15 to $75 a spot surrounding the venue and the adjacent mall. Park at the mall and spend the $15 mall parking fee on food or drinks at participating venues, and those venues will take the parking fee off the receipt. The mall parking lot closes off many of their aisleways so it is a nuisance to find the best way to enter. If you don’t mind walking ¼ mile, park at the Tanger Outlets on 95th St for free and walk over. Traffic getting out of the parking lot after games is a mess. Hang out 15 – 30 min after the game for all that to settle. Six gates are available for entry, with Gate 4 the most popular and directly in front of the Westgate Entertainment District and plaza area. Public transportation is not available at all to the arena; driving is the only method. Gila River Arena has a mystifying, absurd no bag policy where fans are not even permitted to bring a clear 12“ x 6” x 12” bag into the building. Stadium administration told me fans in wheelchairs (who carry a bag larger than 4” x 6”) or fans with other medical items that don’t fit in 4” x 6” purse have to travel all the way to Gate 1 to enter the arena. It’s almost like the city of Glendale doesn’t want visitors at their venue, especially those with medical conditions. Here’s hoping the new arena does a better job. Return on Investment 2 Food and drink costs are the standard higher amount stadium prices and no ‘value item menus’ are offered at Gila River Arena. Coyotes tickets range from $23 to $549+ (depending on the day and visiting team). Depending on visiting team, these are more affordable than other NHL teams. With the no bag policy, no public transportation, and the distance from downtown Phoenix, it’s not quite worth the sports dollar investment. Extras 3 The team has varied its logo over the years, beginning with a kachina-style coyote, then a howling coyote, and a crescent moon. The Coyotes have returned to the slick-looking kachina-style coyote for their last season in Glendale. The Coyotes Den merchandise shop is large, bright, with plenty of room to walk around. It sells an abundance of clothing choices (all logos), and other items, including the prohibited clear stadium bags. You can buy them, but you just can’t use them here. Located in the Westgate Entertainment District deserves an extra mention. Enjoy the water fountain displays in front of the arena. Final Thoughts With a new owner and a winning record, the Coyotes are drawing more crowds. The baffling and unfriendly arena entry rules and lack of public transportation make getting to Gila River Arena a difficult trip for some. If you’re a hockey fan and want to make one last trip to Gila River Arena, do it this 2021-2022 season.

Photos by Patricia Beninato, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Erie Insurance Arena 809 French St Erie, PA 16501 Erie Otters website Erie Insurance Arena website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 6,833 Erie’s Home for Hockey Since it was completed in 1983, the venue once known as the Erie Civic Center has continually hosted hockey, starting with the ACHL’s Golden Blades. Today, the arena is home to the Erie Otters, one of only three American teams in the Ontario Hockey League. The major junior league is part of the Canadian Hockey League, the highest level of North American amateur hockey for players aged 16 to 21. The Otters were created in 1996 and have had great success in their 25 years of existence, winning two OHL championships and numerous division championships. Current NHL superstar Connor McDavid played his junior hockey for the Otters. Erie loves its hockey team, but like the city itself, Erie Insurance Arena is dated and a little shabby. It doesn’t mean that you can’t have fun here, though. Food and Beverage 4 You’ll find the usual sports venue food suspects are well represented at Erie Insurance Arena–hot dogs, nachos, chicken tenders and the like. However, since the Otters are part of a Canadian league, you can also cover the three major Canadian food groups, namely Tim Horton’s donuts, poutine, and beer. French fries covered in cheese curds and gravy accompanied by a cold Labatt’s (or a Coke) and a Timmy Ho’s cruller will take you over the border faster than you can say “how’s it going, eh?” The beer selection is quite good here, with plenty of local breweries like Erie Ale Works and Luminary Distillers represented. Best of all, the service is quick and friendly and the prices fairly reasonable. Atmosphere 4 Erie Insurance Arena’s seating is shaped like a horseshoe (media facilities take up one end). It holds roughly 6200 people for hockey, with two levels of seating and small club suites on the third and highest level. The seats are comfortable and roomy, and as far as sightlines go, there’s not a bad one in the house. There’s also a standing-room-only platform behind the goal on the first level, which serves as a natural gathering spot for fans. Scoreboards on either end are clear, if not particularly big, as is the center-hung display. Otter fans love anthem singer Roy Hollis Jr. After performing the Canadian national anthem, he will take off his jacket to reveal an American flag shirt and positively wail the Star-Spangled Banner. Otto the Otter is on hand for the kids and to lead team cheers, and promotions include Chuck-a-Puck, where fans fling pucks onto the ice and try to hit targets for prizes. Be warned, though, that the Otters’ Kiss Cam can get a little out of hand, so try to distract the little ones. There are currently no restrictions due to the COVID pandemic at the arena. Neighborhood 2 There are plenty of restaurants and bars near Erie Insurance Arena, which is in the heart of downtown Erie. Unfortunately, the neighborhood is on the run-down side. On a recent Saturday night, establishments seemed sparsely populated; the biggest gathering was in front of the arena waiting to get in. Although there’s ample parking, Otters fans say that they just come for the game for the most part because they “don’t feel comfortable hanging out” in the neighborhood. When asked outside if there was a place they’d recommend for a drink or a pre- or post-game bite, fans shook their heads or shrugged. “You can get the same beer in here cheaper” was a surprisingly common refrain. I was told that the neighborhood is livelier when the Double-A SeaWolves baseball team is playing at UPMC Park, next door to the arena. So there’s no lack of places to go, it’s just that Otters fans don’t want to go to them, apparently. As for hotels, the Bayfront area, roughly a mile from the arena, has a Courtyard by Marriott and a Sheraton. The hotel nearest the arena, the Avalon, is only about two blocks away, but it’s not in the best shape. Fans 5 Erie loves the Otters, and going to a game is less like attending a sporting event and more like going to a party with extraordinarily friendly people who love to talk about hockey. Blue and gold jerseys are everywhere, although there are also red and green alternate jerseys to be seen, usually with Connor McDavid’s name on the back. Many season ticket holders have been here for the duration of the team’s existence, and many of them have been billet families for players over the years. They speak with pride about their team and players both past and present and are always happy to school visitors on the Otters’ illustrious history. Then, if you’re lucky, they’ll buy you a beer and exchange quotes from Slap Shot with you. Access 4 Thanks to its location in central downtown Erie on French Street between 8th and 10th Avenues, Erie Insurance Arena is easily accessible by car and public transit. There’s a parking garage located directly across the street from the arena with a cost of $5. In addition, two parking garages flank the arena, which cost $4. The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority, known locally as the E, has three routes that stop at the arena; its schedule can be found at https://ride-the-e.com . The arena itself has comfortably wide concourses and multiple points of entry. Paper and mobile tickets are both accepted. There are several wheelchair-accessible seating areas throughout the arena. Restrooms are clean and have been updated with automatic toilets and hand dryers. Return on Investment 4 One of the biggest draws of minor-league hockey is inexpensive tickets, and Erie Otters tickets are no exception. The most you’ll pay for a ticket here is $18, and the team frequently offers deals like “4 for $44”. Interestingly, the team isn’t offering any giveaways, although it does offer some discounts on team merchandise at particular games. Combined with decent concession and merchandise prices, it won’t break the bank to take the family to an Otters game, and a game is also a popular Erie date night activity. Extras 3 The arena’s merchandise store, the Otters Den, is very well laid out and stocked. As mentioned in the previous section, discounts on particular merchandise happen at every game, so there are some good deals to be had. In addition, kids’ activities such as games and face painting are available, and a walk around the main concourse takes you past banners of former Erie players, Otters or otherwise. It’s a minor-league arena, though, so there aren’t a lot of bells and whistles like you might find at NHL arenas. The staff, many of whom have been here since the arena opened, are knowledgeable and friendly, to the point where fans ask after particular people if they don’t immediately see them. Final Thoughts If you’re a hockey fan, an Erie Otters game is fun and relatively inexpensive, even if you throw in a hot dog, a beer, and a t-shirt. It’s kind of sad, though, that more fans don’t seem to take advantage of the surrounding neighborhood, preferring to get their food and drinks inside the arena and not wanting to hang around before or after games. Maybe it’s not a destination arena, but if you’re in the area and want to see future NHL stars up close and hang out with some loyal hockey fans, you can do worse than Erie Insurance Arena.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Folsom Field Colorado Ave Boulder, CO 80302 Colorado Buffaloes website Folsom Field website Year Opened: 1924 Capacity: 50,183 The Buffalo Roam Under Boulder's Flatirons Folsom Field, home to the Pac-12 Conference’s University of Colorado Buffaloes, is not the largest college football stadium in the country. Folsom seats 50,183, less than half of the capacities of the football stadiums at places such as the University Michigan (107,601); Penn State University (106,572); and Ohio State University (102,780). Nor is Folsom the newest football stadium in the country, as it will celebrate its centennial in 2024. But set against the dramatic Flatirons to the stadium’s west, Folsom has beauty and spectator proximity to the playing field that schools with larger and newer stadiums envy. Folsom is also home to one of college football’s greatest traditions: Ralphie’s run just before the first- and second-half kickoffs. Since 1967, a live buffalo has charged ahead of the CU team as it takes the field. Five “handlers,” all current CU students, run Ralphie south along Folsom Field’s east sideline, across the field, north along the west sideline, and into a trailer sitting behind the north end zone (frequently as surprised opponents are taking the field). Ralphie’s handlers must try out, complete physical exams, driving tests, and background checks before being selected; if selected, each handler must dedicate approximately 30 hours per week to Ralphie’s care and to the school’s live mascot program. “Ralphie” is a female buffalo because males are much bigger and are more easily excitable. Between stunning views around the stadium, high-level competition, and the chance to watch an American bison charge the field, even casual college football fans will enjoy a game at Folsom. Food & Beverage 3 There are plenty of places to buy food and beverages at Folsom Field but long, slow-moving lines routinely form. CU has created several “grab and go” concession stands, where customers pick up food (hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, etc.) and bottled drinks from heated racks and large refrigerators, respectively. Fans will find these concession stands in Balch Fieldhouse, behind the west grandstand, and behind the grandstand on Folsom’s east side. Although this arrangement can alleviate long lines, the food quality seems to suffer. Nacho cheese congeals while waiting to be purchased alongside stale chips. The frequent opening and closing of refrigerators prevents the bottled soft drinks inside from staying cold. The grab-and-go concept can work at a sporting event but the execution at Folsom Field needs improvement. The courtyard outside Balch Fieldhouse’s south entrance, just outside Folsom Field’s Gate 1, provides the best concessions. There, fans can enjoy the weather, snap a photo with the “Monarch of the Plains” buffalo statue, and find several interesting dining options. Steuben’s restaurant, a Denver comfort food tradition, serves a delicious Nashville chicken sandwich ($14) and a green chile cheeseburger ($13) that are quite good. Jake’s Mini Donut Diner offers donuts with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, chocolate dip, and sprinkles for $6 per bag. Pepsi products are the exclusive soft drinks at Folsom Field, selling for $4 per can. Bottled still (Aquafina) and sparkling water (Bubly) also sell for $4. Those seeking a more adult beverage will not be disappointed. Boulder’s Avery Brewing Company and CU developed a lager, Stampede, that is the official beer of the CU Athletic Department and bears Ralphie’s visage on each can. It’s available, along with other craft beers, for $12 for 16 ounces and $10 for 12 ounces. Twenty-four ounce domestic beers (Coors products) sell for $13.50. Fans will also find Vizzy and Topo Chico hard seltzers for $14 per can. Atmosphere 4 When filled, Folsom Field presents opponents with a loud and intimidating atmosphere. Configured as a horseshoe, with the “open” end behind the stadium’s north end zone, Folsom has large scoreboards with video screens at either end. Folsom’s grandstands have only metal bleachers. Fans can rent cushioned seatbacks for $8 outside the stadium’s southeast entrances. This can be a worthwhile purchase for fans with sore backs or who do not wish to sit on cold metal later in the season. More comfortable seats are available in luxury suites and premium seating areas. Folsom Field’s 1924 design did not leave much room between the sidelines and the stands, so the crowd is very close to the action. The stadium’s scoreboard video screens receive good use. Historical footage of Ralphie is shown as part of a pre-game countdown. The Golden Buffalo Marching Band performs before each game and at halftime. The Buffs’ human mascot, “Chip,” is one of the nation’s best. During late-season games, Chip has been known to create his own small berm from which he can jump on a snowboard. There is much to like about the atmosphere, but Folsom Field needs to upgrade its sound system, which fans cannot hear in certain sections (Section 204, as an example). There are several seating options. For those wanting a great view of Ralphie as she leads the team onto the field, Sections 119, 120, and 121 are your best bets. The seats on Folsom Field’s east side face the mountains to the west, providing a dramatic backdrop to the action on the field. Seating on the west side of the stadium is good for those who might want to take cover in the adjacent Balch Fieldhouse, where concession stands, big-screen televisions, and warmth are all contained under one roof. The visiting team’s fans and band typically sit in Sections 101, 102, and 103. Neighborhood 5 Folsom Field is situated on CU’s Boulder campus within easy walking distance of all buildings and parking facilities. Just to the west of campus, University Hill provides several locations for food and drink also within walking distance of Folsom Field. The campus teems with beauty and is worth exploring. Old Main, the first building constructed on CU’s campus, opened a few months before Colorado became a state in 1876 and houses the CU Heritage Center. For those wanting to learn more about Ralphie or the rest of the university, the Heritage Center warrants a visit. The Heritage Center also has a LEGO model of the CU campus comprised of approximately 1 million bricks, as well as artifacts belonging to CU alumnus and astronaut Ellison Onizuka that were recovered from the Space Shuttle Challenger ’s wreckage in 1986. Boulder’s University Hill sits just west of the CU campus, across Broadway. Bars, shops, and restaurants line 13th Street. The Sink, at the corner of 13th and Pennsylvania Avenue, opened in 1923, one year before Folsom Field’s debut. The Sink is within an easy walk of the stadium and its burgers warrant inclusion in any discussion of the nation’s best. Actor Robert Redford worked as a janitor at the Sink in 1955 while he was a student on a baseball scholarship at CU. Beyond campus, Boulder has dining, drinking, and entertainment options for just about everyone. The Pearl Street Mall, a three-block long pedestrian mall with shops and restaurants, sits less than two miles from Folsom Field. Closer to campus, the Twenty-Ninth Street Mall is an open-air shopping center with restaurants to suit any taste or budget. There are plenty of nearby options for fans looking for something other than a bar or restaurant. Boulder’s Chautauqua Park, at Baseline Road and 9th Street in Boulder, has some of the town’s best hiking and rock climbing. It also has a full dining hall and close-up views of the Flatirons, for those looking for a tamer kind of adventure. The paved Boulder Creek path begins west of campus in Boulder Canyon and parallels the creek through downtown Boulder, across CU’s campus just north of and down the hill from Folsom Field, and travels five miles to east Boulder. Fans can easily walk or bicycle to games along the creek path. Fans 3 One of the best aspects of a Buffs game is the enthusiasm of the students. Seated on Folsom Field’s east side, the student section, the “CUnit,” generates most of the crowd’s energy. The students are loud, engaged, and thrilled when good fortune finds the CU gridders. The students also sing along with the Golden Buffalo Marching Band. Other fans are engaged as well, but the students and the band seemingly fuel the team’s play. The Buffs drew home crowds that filled Folsom at an average of 91 percent between 2015-2019, according to College Football News . Only Oregon (102.8%), Utah (101.2%), Washington (94.9%), and Washington State (92.7%) filled their stadiums to higher percentages in the Pac-12 during that time. Folsom does not sell out regularly but that may change as the program improves. Access 3 Getting to Folsom Field is much easier than getting around Folsom Field once there. The Regional Transportation District ( RTD ) operates several bus lines from Denver to Boulder, with several bus stops at or near Folsom Field. The closest stop is at Folsom Street and Colorado Avenue. Fans can also reach Folsom Field by bike or by foot from just about anywhere in Boulder. The City of Boulder has an excellent bike-sharing program that recently added 100 electric bikes to its existing, 300-bike fleet. Parking at the CU Events Center garage is $30 per car and likely the closest public parking available. Alternatively, fans can park for $15 per car at CU’s East Campus east of the stadium on Colorado Avenue. The walk is long but shuttle buses run frequently between the parking lot and the stadium. Because Folsom Field is nearing its 100th birthday, however, negotiating its walkways and concourses can take time. The concourses in and outside the stadium can be narrow – as is to be expected at an older facility. But lines at concession stands are long and slow, winnowing the space in nearby concourses such that fans must slide around one another. Balch Fieldhouse tends to fill during pre-game and halftime; otherwise, it is a nice place to find shelter and food. Return on Investment 3 The cost to attend a game at Folsom Field compares favorably to the cost of attending a game at other Power Five conference schools. Single-game tickets begin at $40 for seats in the upper level of Folsom Field’s south end. A 50 yard-line seat, 20 rows from the field sells for $130. CU does offer multiple-game and season ticket packages, both of which enable fans to buy game tickets at lower prices. Concession prices are consistent with pricing at most large sporting events, perhaps slightly higher. A cheeseburger sells for $12.50, while personal pizzas are available for $12; hot dogs are $6 apiece. Fans can also snack on traditional stadium fare: popcorn ($6), pretzels ($5), and candy ($5). Although CU does not permit fans to bring coolers into Folsom Field, empty thermoses are allowed and water stations can be found around the stadium’s perimeter. Fans can thus hydrate without having to spend money or wait in lines at concession stands. Extras 3 A point is awarded in recognition of the grass-roots funding for Ralphie’s feeding, maintenance, and care. CU’s live mascot program – arguably college football’s best – is funded entirely through donations from fans. The Buffs earn another point for recycling. CU has introduced zero-waste and carbon-reduction programs at all home sporting events that include a cool promotion. The Buffs convert recycled plastic bottles, collected after games at Folsom Field, into the t-shirts that CU’s spirit squad throws into the stands to celebrate every CU touchdown. Also, a point goes to CU’s Pearl Street Stampede. The night before each home game, CU holds a pep rally along the Pearl Street Mall in downtown Boulder. The team throws miniature footballs into the crowd and the CU spirit squads participate, while the Golden Buffalo Marching Band plays to the delight of those gathered along the mall. Final Thoughts Folsom Field may not have the size or new-stadium smell of other college football venues, but it has plenty of other assets. Simply put, Boulder is one of college football’s most stunning settings. The Flatirons loom beyond the stadium’s southwestern corner and CU’s campus has postcard-quality beauty. Seeing Ralphie lead the team onto the field just enhances the allure of a game at Folsom Field. Follow Matt Finnigan’s stadium journeys on Twitter @mattfinniganco

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Bulldog Stadium Loop Road Bowie, MD 20715 Bowie State Bulldogs website Bulldog Stadium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 2,964 Home Of The Bulldogs Bowie State University is a public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Bowie State is Maryland’s oldest historically black university and one of the ten oldest in the country, opening in 1865. In 1963, Bowie State College was officially named and in 1988 became a university. It is now a member of the University System of Maryland. The school has 22 undergraduate majors, 19 master’s programs, two doctoral programs. A few members of the singing family, the Braxtons, have attended Bowie State. Christa McAuliffe, one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, got a Master’s degree at Bowie. Sports teams at Bowie are called the Bulldogs. They compete in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, at the NCAA Division II level. Bulldog Stadium has a seating capacity of 2,964. A new field house was opened in 2015 within the stadium. Food & Beverage 3 The new field house in the end zone has a pretty nice concession stand located next to it. It is strangely hidden, but the food options and prices are all quite good. There are simple food options for a stadium but I was fairly impressed. I had eaten before the game, but I would have had no problem grabbing a hot dog, nachos, or another snack at this well-stocked stand. There is a lot of space around the stadium interior for other food options that seem to happen depending on the game and the expected crowd. I got the feeling that at the annual homecoming game there are plenty of additional food options. Atmosphere 3 As with every HBCU football game I have ever experienced, the atmosphere is always quite special. From the entrance of the small but loud band to the cheerleaders and majorettes, the crowd should be fired up from the experience. Even so, Bulldog Stadium does suffer from feeling a bit like a high school-type atmosphere. The stadium is not very big and it feels like that kind of stadium experience. This is not necessarily negative, but you can tell that it is not a Division I football game. There is one main grandstand on the home side and a small visitors’ grandstand on the other side. The visitors’ stand is tall but not very wide and looks kind of funny. Overall the seating seems far from the field and that is even with no track as part of the stadium. That is a bit of a negative. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing too exciting about the residential Bowie neighborhood near the university. Not too far away is a major highway (US Route 301) and is near many shopping centers and fast-food restaurants. Baltimore is 30 miles away, DC 18 miles away, and Annapolis 15 miles away, so you should not be limited by the uninspiring suburban choices right near the school. Poncho n’ Pepe’s Cantina at 1651 Maryland Route 3 in Crofton doesn’t have the most exciting food selection, but is a colorful restaurant with many foods and drink specials for pre and post-game gatherings. Rip’s Country Inn (3809 Crain Hwy, Bowie, MD) is a longtime family restaurant that is very close to the stadium. If you need solid quality good food, this is a great option. Comfort Inn is at 4500 Crain Highway across US Route 301 from the stadium and offers some game package deals. Fans 3 Bowie State has pretty decent fan support. Unfortunately, it does have quite a few commuters and professional-level students who likely do not make it to that many games. Quite a decent number of alumni attend the games. There did not appear to be as many students attending the games as I expected. Access 3 Access is good at Bowie State. Sitting near US Route 301, US Route 50, and State Route 3, one should have no problem getting to the game. Traffic can be a bear at times, as this intersection is right between the triangle of Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington, DC. Plan a little leeway in timing for early evening games. Parking is all around campus and there is a charge when you get to the campus entrance. You will have to walk a bit to get to the stadium if you park in one of the main university lots. There are some lots nearer to the stadium. Ask at the gate when paying the parking cost for the best lot. Return on Investment 3 The ticket prices are not too bad starting at around $20. The parking seems a bit more expensive at $10. Parking and ticket prices will go up at Homecoming so be prepared. You can also pay $100 for tailgating for that game only. The tailgating prices will also include 2 tickets to the game. Extras 2 The Symphony Of Soul Marching Band, majorettes, and cheerleaders are pretty awesome to watch. The band puts on a great show and you should make sure you are at the game early enough to watch their entrance. The stadium has a tree-lined setting that is a nice little extra when watching a game in the busy Baltimore-Washington corridor. Final Thoughts Bulldogs Stadium is not fancy. But the good level of Division II football put on display here at this nice stadium is worth the small price of admission.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Bazemore-Hyder Stadium 1204 Williams St Valdosta, GA 31601 Valdosta State Blazers website Bazemore-Hyder Stadium website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 11,249 The Blazin’ Brigade Bazemore-Hyder Stadium at Cleveland Field is the home field of the Valdosta High School Wildcats, but is also used by the NCAA Division II’s Valdosta State Blazers. The overall facility was named after two prominent Wildcats coaches, while the field itself was named after a former school superintendent. Though football was first played here in 1923, the old stadium was demolished and a new venue built on the same site in 2004. The new venue includes a Wildcat Museum to celebrate the many accomplishments of the high school club. The Valdosta Blazers have played football here since 1982, and in four decades and earned 4 national championships (#Titletown, USA). The Blazers currently compete in the Gulf South Conference. Food & Beverage 4 Bazemore-Hyder Stadium has concessions stands on both sides of the field, and offers a strong selection of menu items including pulled pork, BBQ chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, Italian sausage, nachos (with or without barbecue), popcorn, and packaged candy for $2 to $5 (except for the BBQ nachos which are $8). The home side also offers a few additional items such as shaved ice, kettle corn, and caramel corn. You can also buy bottled Coke Products or bottled water for $3. Atmosphere 4 Bazemore-Hyder Stadium is a great little facility – while not large compared to FBS or FCS facilities (which require more seating by rule), the Blazers’ 11,249 capacity is on the higher side for D2. The trees surrounding the stadium on three sides provide a pleasant setting, and there is plenty of Blazer signage all around the facility, making it hard to tell this is really a high school football stadium (a lot of shared stadiums don’t do as good a job hiding the other team’s décor, so seeing that here is a great touch). Bazemore-Hyder Stadium has grandstands along both sidelines, on the north and south sides of the field – the larger home stands have chairback seats and chairback rails all the way across, making for more comfortable seating for fans. The visitor side, however, has regular bleachers in all areas, and the two grandstands are not connected, so you will have to enter on the side where you have your tickets. The east side of the stadium is taken up by the field house with locker rooms, while the west side has a large scoreboard, including a videoboard for instant replays, which is big enough that it can easily be seen from anywhere in the venue, no matter where you are sitting. The Valdosta State marching band is known as the Blazin’ Brigade, and along with the cheer squad they put on a great show before the game, when the team comes onto the field, and during halftime, with lots of red-and-black banners waving in the breeze. The band is also very large and does a lot of great formations, including playing popular songs from both today and yesterday. Blazin' Brigade, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 Valdosta, GA has a population of around fifty-six thousand, and is located next to I-75 not far from the Florida-Georgia line; the stadium is nestled between Highway 221 on the south and Highway 41 on the east and north. There are several Mexican restaurants near the venue (El Cazador is the closest), but Soultry’s Southern Cuisine is only a couple of miles away (next to I-75), as is Texas Roadhouse, if you are looking to take in some other games before or after the Blazers contest. There are plenty of hotels in Valdosta, with enough options to fit any budget – all of these are located in the corridor next to I-75, about 3 miles west of Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. There are also a couple of parks within a few miles of the facility, as well as the South Georgia Selfie Museum if you are looking for a more modern and unique type of tourist attraction to visit. Fans 3 Even for a D2 playoff game the Valdosta State Blazers do not draw a huge crowd to Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, but the fans who are there are plenty loud, and they definitely outnumber the visiting fans, which is always a refreshing thing to see from the fans at a smaller school. The facility also sells Blazer team gear underneath the home side (not a huge selection but a few items), so be sure to pick up your VSU swag while at the game. Access 3 On the plus side, Bazemore-Hyder Stadium is easy to get to since it is located near several different highways, and you can park right across the street at the VFW for $10, which is a great deal and makes for a short walk to the venue. The concourse is also very easy to move around, and there are plenty of bathrooms and concessions stands to accommodate everyone. The downside is that the two different grandstands are separated, so you cannot move freely from one area to the other, and you have to enter on the side where you have your ticket. Things are particularly congested on the visitor side, with long lines to buy tickets (and for concessions), so be sure to buy your tickets online before the game so you can avoid some of the wait. Ticket lines were almost non-existent on the home side, however, and the concessions lines are shorter on the home side as well. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Valdosta State games at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium start at $12, but it is worth it to pay a little more to get the chairback seats on the home side, as well as the better concessions and shorter lines on that side. Concessions are also a great deal with most items running under $5, which is much less expensive than a lot of other venues – for the experience you get, seeing a Blazers game is definitely a great return on investment for your sports dollar. Extras 3 Valdosta State has an awesome mascot (a person in a matchstick costume with a flame for a head, amazing costume!), and they play several videos on the big screen during halftime to keep fans entertained after the marching band finishes their show. They also have a solid football program with no fewer than four national championships in less than twenty years, so you are sure to see some great talent on the field. Valdosta State Banners, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Bazemore-Hyder Stadium is definitely worth a look – you may not have heard of the small school known as Valdosta State University, but if you are a football fan you should have heard of the Blazers and their recent string of successes. If you are in the south Georgia area, make time to take this great little stadium in rural GA.

To see part one of this interview, click here Long before Paddy Boom ( @ PaddyBoom nyc ) drummed for the Scissor Sisters, he was a diehard Red Sox fan. Paddy took a few minutes away from his record emporium in the Catskills ( @boomandbloomrecords ) to talk about his fave baseball team.   STADIUM JOURNEY: You were one of the most colorful players in the history of Horace Greeley High School lacrosse. What are your fondest memories of suiting up for Greeley lax? PADDY BOOM: To be honest, I was never a great athlete and I’m a hundred percent OK with that. The traditional sports weren’t where I found passion. I’m a certified Mistral boardsailing instructor. My passion has always been music. However, I had a great time playing lacrosse, mainly for the camaraderie and Hijinx. When I say I played lacrosse, I mean, playing around on the sidelines, due to my small size and my meh stick skill, I would be put in once in a blue moon. I was let on the field to participate when we were either winning by a lot or losing by a lot. As in, “this game is toast. Where’s Seacor?’ I wasn’t star material, but I had a hell of a good time on the bench doing all sorts of mischievous activities; tying teammates’ laces to the bench while they were sitting, breaking into opposing teams' locker rooms, burying a teammates stick, etc. I really enjoyed the camaraderie of the bus rides to away games, that’s really where I shined on the team. I always had a boombox - powered by 10 D batteries - for the away games and became the DJ. I cranked out cassettes of Zeppelin, the Clash, The Who and Creedence jams. Things got pretty wild at times. Notably, after one game, things were getting rowdy in the back of the bus and one teammate started smashing the lights inside our bus with a bat while the driver just barreled down the road. We played Byram Hills once and it got a bit hairy with the opposing team surrounding our bus as we tried to leave the parking lot. Their team started yelling and banging on the bus with their sticks, rocking the bus back and forth which was exciting.   STADIUM JOURNEY: I don’t know if you ever played golf, but you had a fun job collecting balls. What was that like? PADDY BOOM: My first paying job was at the local Mt. Kisco Country Club golf course that I could walk to from my house. There was a legit caddy shack, just like in the classic movie. There was a hierarchy to getting loops for the good paying golfers. $15 a bag was good pay in 1982. When I showed up at the caddy shack, I was given the name “rabbit” by the head caddy master Joe Cerrantes. A rabbit was a newbie to the art of caddying. The grunt job for budding caddies was shagging balls for $3 a round. Shagging meant standing out on the practice fairway and picking up fifty or so practice balls as they were launched from a fixed spot about half a football field away. I’d be staring blindly into the sun as golfers blasted balls towards me to work on their game. It was scary because you couldn’t see the ball half the  time. I prayed it didn’t hit me, which it did on occasion. It stung hard. Occasionally, I did play golf on Caddy Day, which was on Mondays. I wasn’t very good at golf but it was always a good excuse to hang out. At the time I started actually caddying, Caddyshack, the movie, was out, and a lot of that stuff was so true. Getting in good with the caddy master was key as he set you up with jobs. Our caddie Master, Joe Cerrantes, was a heavy set guy with bluish cataract eyes, who chain smoked Parliaments and had a constant smokers cough. If you got in with his graces, you got the good loops with generous rich guys who might buy you lunch at the snack bar as an added bonus. However, if you were new or he didn’t like you, you got all the “slashers,” the guys who routinely hit balls into the woods, which you had forcing you to go to get. Undoubtedly that meant getting scratches and bug bites. Alternately, a rookie gig was any all-ladies afternoon “shotgun” type game.   STADIUM JOURNEY: So you sell vinyl records, among other things. What’s so special about vinyl? Discuss the magic. PADDY BOOM: I sell mainly used vinyl at my shop Boom & Bloom in the Catskills, I’ve been collecting records since I was ten years old, and the magic of collecting, thankfully, has not worn off. Now, as a vinyl merchant, I enjoy the process of helping people find what they’re looking for. There are deep memories and associations with albums, and I enjoy hearing the excitement surrounding a “lost gem” that someone might find in my store. It’s corny to say, but, I’m in the business of happiness, and I found a use for all my random music knowledge too. People leave my store happier than when they walk in and you can’t say that about most stores. I’m sort of like a sonic drug dealer. People come in looking for something to change their mood, and they get it.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What’s the Ted Willams of vinyl, the holy grail? PADDY BOOM: It depends who you ask and what they are into. “Value” is completely subjective. There’s market value and sentimental value. I recently found an original Velvet Underground with Andy Warhol with a bunch of $2 records. That’s money right there. Last time I checked it was valued over 2k. __________________________________________________________________________________ Paddy Boom spins a live show, Vinyl Freedom, twice a month. Catch it here: https://wavefarm.org/listen . Jon Hart is  @manversusball

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Independence Stadium 3900-3934 Fisk St Shreveport, LA 71109 Independence Bowl website Independence Stadium website Year Opened: 1924 Capacity: 65,000 Bowling in Shreveport Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana, opened in 1924 and has a capacity of 65,000. The facility is owned by the City of Shreveport, and is most well-known for hosting the annual FBS Independence Bowl – this is the only college football game you will probably see in the venue, in fact, as there are no college teams who use it regularly, though the facility does host some high school football games. The stadium was also used a long-time ago as the home stadium for the Shreveport Steamers of the short-lied and now defunct World Football League. The Independence Bowl itself is sort of a mixed bag in terms of its participants and conference tie-ins; while most bowl games have deals with certain conferences, the Independence Bowl has gone a step further and made deals with specific teams – for 2021 thru 2025 for example, the game has contracted to alternate between BYU and Army as one of its participants, while the other will come from either the American conference, the PAC-12, or Conference USA depending on the year. It remains to be seen how the deal with BYU will go given the Cougars pending move to the Big 12. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage options at Independence Stadium start long before you enter the stadium gates – given that this bowl game is the biggest sporting event in northern Louisiana every year, it shouldn’t surprise you that there are plenty of options surrounding the stadium. Ranging from the fan fests sponsored by each participating team and by the various bowl sponsors, to the restaurants and bars only a block or two from the venue, to the food trucks brought in for the day, you will have no problem finding a bite to eat, and some it will even be free – at the most recent Independence Bowl, for example, the BYU fan fest offered free Brunswick Stew to all fans (although they did run out quickly), and one of the event sponsors had a tent with free barbecue, sides, and bowl-branded souvenirs such as mugs, mini footballs, and lanyards. The food trucks on-site offered items such as corn dogs and hot dogs, and the on-site bars offered a slew of alcohol selections. And if you don’t get your fill outside, you can of course eat once you enter the stadium as well – Independence Stadium has concession stands both on the main level and at the top of the grandstand (the ones on top have shorter lines but may require a longer walk up the stairs, depending on how far up you are sitting). Some of the stands offer pretty basic fare like hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, and nachos, but there are also some more interesting options such as pizza from Johnny’s, ice cream from Counter Culture, barbecue from Real, and of course, Cajun cuisine from Marilyn’s Place, which is a must given that the stadium is located in Louisiana. The specialty items will of course cost more, but there are plenty of lower cost options for fans on a tighter budget. Atmosphere 3 It is best to get to the game early if you want to take in the full experience, including the aforementioned fan fests and seeing the participating schools’ bands march in. There is also a flyover before kickoff (assuming the weather isn’t bad, which unfortunately happens from time to time), and you can buy game swag either outside the stadium, or inside after you enter. Independence Stadium is laid out in a bowl design with grandstands along the sidelines and in the south end zone, and some tents set up at field level on the west side. The best seats in the house are actually in the suite area at the top of the south side, which has covered seating, so if you are worried about inclement weather or too much sun that is your best bet, although these cost a little more. The press box and box seats are on the west side, while the main scoreboard is located above the north end zone, although there is another smaller one on the south side. While most of the seats are regular metal bleachers, there are some chairbacks seats in some areas if you prefer those. Neighborhood 3 Cajun cuisine, seafood, and gambling are the order of the day when you visit Shreveport; there are a couple of great restaurants about 5 or 6 blocks from the stadium, with a few more closer to the airport, plus several casinos across the Red River in Bossier City. John’s Seafood is within walking distance of the stadium and serves calabash-style fresh seafood. However, if you are looking for something more in the Cajun line, try Monkhouse Seafood Diner near the airport (about 2 miles west of the stadium) – Monkhouse is best known for its catfish and stuffed shrimp. If you are going to be in town overnight, most of the hotels are near the airport, but there are additional options in Bossier City. If you want something near the airport, Residence Inn on Monkhouse Drive a is a great choice, with well-appointed rooms and rates starting at under $100. Some of the options in Bossier City have even cheaper rates, however, since they are subsidized by the casinos, and offer more of a resort-type feel, such as the Horseshoe Casino Hotel. In addition, Bossier City is not that much further away from Independence Stadium than the airport. Fans 3 Like many bowl games, the stands can seem pretty empty at Independence Stadium during the Independence Bowl, given how far away the participating teams usually come from, and the fact that the game usually happens during the holiday season when many fans are spending time with family. That said, however, at this game you will get some of the most diehard fans of the two schools that exist anywhere, namely those willing to make the long trek to this faraway game, so you will get some great energy and some pretty decent crowd noise, including the ubiquitous fans with no shirts and chests painted in their team’s colors. Access 4 Independence Stadium is probably one of the easiest stadiums in the country to get in and out of for a bowl game. Located just 2 miles from the Shreveport Regional Airport, which being a small airport has light traffic, short lines, and rental cars right outside the terminal, the stadium is easy to get to even if you live several states away. You can also park right outside the stadium for $20, and there are more than enough concessions stands and bathrooms to accommodate the crowd size. The only potential downside is that the traffic is all routed one way after the game, in an attempt to empty the stadium as quickly as possible, so you may end up having to circle back once you get a few miles from the venue – however, this is a small price to pay in order to get out quickly. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to the Independence Bowl run about $40 for lower-level seats, but you can usually get them cheaper from 3rd party re-sellers. The parking and food and drink prices are also reasonable, especially when you consider the specialty options available from the food trucks and some of the vendors inside the facility. The festivities outside the stadium before the game also help make the visit worthwhile. Extras 3 Although it didn’t happen during my most recent visit due to poor weather, the jet flyover was very impressive when I was able to see it, and goes well with the patriotic bent of this particular bowl game. This is also the only college football game you will probably see in this particular stadium, so if you are interested in visiting different stadiums like I am, you should see a game here at least once. Final Thoughts Independence Stadium itself is a little dated, though it has had some recent upgrades, and of course the Independence Bowl is not the highest profile bowl matchup you can find in the area. However, Shreveport is a great town to visit, and the Independence Bowl staff does a wonderful job setting up a great event with fans fests before the game, free souvenirs from the vendors, a jet flyover to boot, and a stadium that is easy to get to and move around. All in all, you can’t go wrong taking in the bowl game here at Independence Stadium, especially if you are lucky enough to have your team here for the game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Staake Gymnasium 3 Babson College Drive Wellesley, MA 02481 Babson Beavers basketball website Staake Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 650 Defend the Dam Babson College is a private business school in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Founded in 1919, its focus is on entrepreneurship education. The school has an enrollment of over 3,600 students in its graduate and undergraduate programs. Babson College was recently ranked by CollegeFactual as the top college in Division III for combining academic and athletic success for student-athletes in basketball. Babson’s 22 varsity teams are known as the Beavers and compete in the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) of Division III. For a small school, Babson College has enjoyed a great amount of athletic success. In addition to three national titles in soccer, one in hockey and one in tennis, the Beavers captured the National Championship in basketball in 2017. The Webster Center houses the indoor athletic facilities at Babson. It was named after former Toronto Blue Jays owner R. Howard Webster, class of 1932. In addition to the 650-seat Staake Gymnasium, other facilities here include the Morse Swimming Center, PepsiCo Pavilion, Lunder Fitness Center, Chandor Dance Studio, an indoor track, four squash courts, a racquetball court, varsity weight room, and athletic administration offices. The Staake Gymnasium is named in honor of Paul and Margaret Staake. Mr. Staake served as Babson Athletics Hall of Fame member and former Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Affairs. Food & Beverage 1 There are no concessions available at Staake Gymnasium. It is unclear if this is due to Covid restrictions in place during Stadium Journey’s visit in January 2022 or if this is standard operation. Fans are able to bring in snacks to enjoy during the game. Atmosphere 3 The gameday presentation is pretty standard for a small school in a small gym with a small crowd. With crowds measuring in the hundreds, not thousands, you wouldn’t expect a rowdy atmosphere, and you won’t get one. Hoop heads won’t mind the low-key, comfortable vibe of Staake Gymnasium, where the game is the focus. Watching some of the younger fans in attendance take over the court at halftime to shoot around was a touch you would never find at a larger facility. Scoreboards are located on either end of the gym, providing basic game stats. Music plays over the arena speakers during play stoppages, with a PA announcer helping to keep things lively throughout the game. Check out the halls around the gym, where murals hang commemorating the Beavers’ 2017 National championship as well as all the other teams Babson College sponsors. Neighborhood 3 Babson College is located in Wellesley, MA, a town with a population of about 30,000 residents located 14 miles west of Boston. Along with Babson, Wellesley College and Massachusetts Bay Community College call Wellesley home. Given Babson’s suburban location, there isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of campus to attract visiting fans. Wellesley Center, a few miles from campus, contains a number of restaurants and shops, but most out of town visitors will want to head into Boston to spend their time. Fans 2 Babson annually averages about 300 fans per game, which is a fairly typical number for most smaller schools in the Boston area. While a crowd at a Beavers game could be considered a “friends and family” crowd, the personal connection the fans have with the players on the court ensure that the fans in attendance are really into the game. There is a good turnout by Babson students and the compact geography of the NEWMAC Conference ensures that fans of visiting schools are often well represented as well. Access 4 Stadium Journey visited Staake Gymnasium in January of 2022, with Covid precautions in place. All spectators are required to present proof of immunization upon entry and to wear masks throughout the game. Babson College is located in the Boston suburb of Wellesley, fourteen miles west of downtown Boston. Situated near the intersection of Interstates 95 and 90, the suburban campus is most easily accessed via Route 9. Driving is the primary method to arrive at the Babson campus. Boston’s public transportation system (the “T”) does not serve Babson directly, but the Wellesley Hills commuter rail station is located a couple of miles from Babson, as is the Green Line’s Woodland station. Driving directions to campus, along with information on local hotels, can be found here . Staake Gymnasium is located on the ground floor of the Webster Center on the western edge of the Babson College campus. Several parking lots are adjacent to the facility. Fans will enter on the second level of the Webster Center, where the mezzanine track and balconies overlooking the court are located. The main entrance to Staake Gymnasium is located on the ground floor. Seats consist of molded bleachers without backs and are located on either side of the court. There are no seats on either end of the court. Rest rooms are clean and large enough to handle a typical Beaver crowd. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Beaver basketball games is free of charge. With free parking and no concessions on site, you will not spend a single cent at a Babson College basketball game. You will even be given a roster at no charge when you enter. Extras 2 Banners hang along the far side of the court commemorating conference championships in many sports, 1,000-point scorers for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, statistical leaders in several volleyball categories, along with Final Four appearances and a banner dedicated to the men’s basketball 2017 National Championship. The Babson College Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the Webster Center. Plaques honoring the enshrined athletes line a wall outside of Staake Gymnasium. Final Thoughts The Babson Beavers are a regional athletic power, and the Staake Gymnasium provides a relaxed, low-key place to catch some affordable, quality hoops. This is another hidden gem to be found when you take a Stadium Journey off the beaten path. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 UPMC Events Center 6001 University Blvd Moon Twp, PA 15108 Robert Morris Colonials basketball website UPMC Events Center website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 4,000 The Little Division One School That Could A half-hour west of Pittsburgh, Robert Morris University may have a bit of an identity crisis. With the University of Pittsburgh hogging most of the city’s college athletics spotlight and Duquesne University taking advantage of its downtown location, RMU struggles to gain attention. It’s a shame because for such a small school (it plays in the Horizon League), it has a very sleek arena, with the Colonials playing their first game there in 2019. So maybe it doesn’t have the allure of the more prominent schools, but if you don’t feel like driving into the city but do feel like watching a live basketball game, this is a nice place in which to do it. Food & Beverage 3 UPMC Event Center’s concessions are about as basic as it gets–the usual suspects of hot dogs, popcorn, soft pretzels, chips, beer, and Pepsi fountain drinks are represented. Those seeking alcohol have three choices: Coors Light, Blue Moon, and Truly hard seltzer. However, a pleasant surprise is that the concessions stand is sponsored by the local Chick-fil-A outpost and offers a basic CfA sandwich with a fountain drink for $9. A hot dog and a brew will run you $15 max. The selections may be limited, but the pricing is relatively decent. Atmosphere 4 UPMC Event Center has a 4,000-seat capacity, arranged on two levels around the court with a small club level above that. Student bleachers are behind the west basket. The seats are roomy, with cupholders attached to first-level seats. Views are excellent no matter where you sit, and things are intimate enough so you can eavesdrop on RMU head coach Andrew Toole’s pep sessions. There’s a super-clear center-court surround screen, with crawl LED displays on all sides and two screens showing each team’s in-game stats. The PA announcer is having fun, as are the cheerleaders, and there are some fan games and contests. RMU’s Continental soldier-clad mascot, RoMo, mills around the seating area and grabs some pom-poms from time to time. The sound system is quiet when the teams are on the court and plays generic rap and other arena standards otherwise. Neighborhood 2 Since UPMC Events Center is located on RMU’s small campus, which in turn is situated very close to Pittsburgh International Airport, non-students who come to games aren’t going to hit a lively game-day scene. Nearby University Drive has a few chain restaurants, including Pittsburgh institutions Primanti Brothers and Eat ‘n Park, and a shopping center across from campus has stuff like pizza and Starbucks. While technically within walking distance, it’s challenging to get to them on foot due to the lack of sidewalks, so if you’re planning on having a couple of adult beverages, make sure somebody sober is driving. Fans 2 It could be because the game Stadium Journey attended was at the same time as the last Steelers game of the season. It could be because the Colonials aren’t that good right now. It could be … well, because RMU is a small commuter school tucked away in the western Pittsburgh suburbs, which doesn’t precisely scream “Big-Time College Sports Destination.” The crowd at this game was depressingly small, with literally no one sitting in the student section. Most of the crowd seemed to consist of basketball players from a nearby suburb’s middle school and their parents, but they were louder than their small number would warrant. Hopefully, more people show up once football season is over. RMU probably would not have sunk so much money into this place if they didn’t. Access 3 Interstate 376, aka the Parkway, is the easiest way to get to UPMC Events Center, located about 3.5 miles from Exit 57. Parking is limited around the arena, but it’s free. The only mass transit comes from downtown Pittsburgh on the 21 bus, about a 50-minute ride. Once you’re here, you’ll have no trouble negotiating the arena, with wide walkways and a broad concourse. Restrooms are plentiful, clean, and well-maintained, with family rooms available for those with young children and wheelchair-accessible stalls. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for RMU men’s basketball games run from $25 for center-court seats to $10 for the upper level. Combined with reasonable concession prices, it’s not bad for an area family to come out for an afternoon and take in some basketball without having to go into the city, which seems to be where most of the non-student and alumni crowds (such as they are) come from. There’s something to be said for Division I sports in your backyard, even minor ones. Extras 2 A small children’s play area with an inflatable slide and basketball hoop is available next to the (even smaller) merchandise kiosk on the main concourse. That’s about it for non-event attractions. Interestingly, tidbits about the school’s athletics history are hidden away in non-public areas. RMU might want to rethink that. Final Thoughts Robert Morris University’s UPMC Events Center is pretty state-of-the-art for a small commuter school. However, its suburban location puts it off the radar for Pittsburgh visitors, attracting mainly students, alumni, and nearby families. If you enjoy college basketball, though, there are worse places to watch it than here, with inexpensive tickets and concessions along with comfortable seats.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Tudor Fieldhouse 6100 S Main Houston, TX 77005 Rice Owls website Tudor Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 5,208 Rice Owls – Tudor Fieldhouse Established in Houston, Texas, in 1912, Rice University is one of the premier academic institutions in the state. Their athletics programs, the Owls , including their basketball team, began playing shortly after the school’s founding. The team began playing in their current home in 1950. Over the years the Owls have seen some success on the court, winning nine conference championships and making the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on four separate occasions (1940, 1942, 1954, and 1970). They have also made appearances in the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) in 1943, 1991, 1993, 2004, and 2005, the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament (CIT) in 2012 and the College Basketball Invitational (CBI) tournament in 2017. Set within eyesight of Rice Stadium, Tudor Fieldhouse has seen two significant renovations since its opening, the first in 2008 (Rice alum Bobby Tudor headed up the 2008 renovation and the arena currently bears his name) and the second in 2014. These upgrades helped to modernize the venerable arena and have proven popular with the Rice faithful. Read on to learn what makes Tudor Fieldhouse the Owls home to roost. Food & Beverage 2 One place where Tudor Fieldhouse truly could stand with some improvements is in the area of food and beverages. This is not to say that what they serve is bad by any means, but currently there is only one concessions stand for Owls games, which is located behind the section of the arena where the player benches are. For large crowds, this could pose a problem with bottlenecking at inopportune times. If you are in need of getting your grub or drinks on during an Owls game, you will need to plan carefully so as not to miss any action. In terms of what is offered, Tudor Fieldhouse serves up pretty much what you’d expect to find at a small-sized concessions stand, including hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, bottled sodas, water, sports drinks, pickles, and candy. What does set it apart from having a lower score here is that the stand does offer alcoholic drinks for sale, specifically canned beer. In addition though, within reason you can bring in outside items, so take that into consideration as well. Atmosphere 3 Once you get inside the relatively new Tudor Fieldhouse, you can see that the dollars were well spent. Everything looks great, the sightlines are well done, the seats are comfortable, and the acoustics are top-notch. The Owls have done a great job honoring their historic past – on the arena’s walls hang banners depicting the conference championships of its men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as its volleyball teams, all of whom play at Tudor Fieldhouse. The basketball team also celebrates its history of great players that have donned the purple and white, as they have seven retired player numbers hanging from the walls of Tudor Fieldhouse, including former NBA Sixth Man of the Year Ricky Pierce . The arena also boasts a team store near the main entrance for fans to purchase all their Owls merchandise. Neighborhood 3 Tudor Fieldhouse is located right in the middle of Rice’s picturesque campus; with its red brick facades and scenic walkways, it often feels as if you’re stepping back in time when you set foot on the campus of Rice. As mentioned, Tudor Fieldhouse is within walking distance of Rice’s football stadium as well as Reckling Park, the Owls baseball stadium. As Houston is the fourth-largest city in the country, it has everything you could ever want in terms of dining, entertainment, and lodging. Even in the area around Rice University you can find plenty to do – your best place to start is Rice Village . Since 1938 Rice Village has been the go-to place for students and neighborhood residents who want shopping and dining. There are over a dozen restaurants to choose from for diners, but one perennial favorite to be on the lookout for is Mendocino Farms , which offers up a variety of specialty sandwiches and salads like their chimichurri steak & bacon, prosciutto & chicken, and pink lady beets and goat cheese salad. Another to be on the lookout for is D’Amico’s Italian Market & Cafe ; specializing in classic Italian pasta dishes, this is the perfect place to grab a bite before or after Owls games. For attractions, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the best such facilities in the region. Home to large collections of artifacts and the Burke Baker Planetarium, it regularly features rotating traveling exhibitions. Also close by is the Museum of Fine Arts Houston , which houses a large collection of classical and modern art. For lodging there are numerous hotels in the area, although none are within walking distance of Tudor Fieldhouse. However, you will have a wide selection of choices that are within a short drive – these include Houston Marriott Medical Center/Museum District and Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center , which are both relatively affordable. However, Houston being Houston, you’ll have a multitude of other selections to choose from as well. Fans 2 I think it would be fair to say that academics take a priority at Rice. For example, in addition to the retired jerseys hanging from the walls of Tudor Fieldhouse, the school also hangs the names of its numerous Rhodes Scholars. With that in mind, the Owls attendance tends to be on the lower end of the spectrum in the conference. Tossing out the 2019 and 2020 seasons due to the pandemic, Rice only averages around 2,300 fans per game, which is in the bottom five for Conference USA and is not quite half capacity for the arena. While it will never be confused with Cameron Indoor Stadium or Rupp Arena , the fans that do show up are passionate about their team – they’re loud and bring the energy that is crucial to a basketball game. Access 3 Tudor Fieldhouse is smack-dab in the center of the Rice University campus, which sits in the middle of a quiet residential neighborhood, far from the hustle and bustle of Space City life. However, the campus is still right between two busy Houston highways (Loop 610 and State Highway 288), which makes getting to Owls games relatively easy. The arena is also less than a 30-minute drive (taking this with a grain of salt as Houston traffic is fickle) from both George W. Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport. If you choose not to drive to games, the Houston METRO public transportation system does run to and from the Rice campus. However, if you choose to drive, parking is free and ample on campus. Again, as with any sporting event in H-Town, be wary of the traffic situation if you choose to drive; you will hit spots of it guaranteed. Return on Investment 3 Single game tickets for Rice Owls men’s basketball games start at $15 and go as high as $35. This is a really great bargain as the team does tend to bring some quality non-conference opponents into Tudor Fieldhouse. It’s also not a bad way to spend an affordable Saturday afternoon if you’re looking to get your basketball fix in. Couple that with the free parking and affordable concessions costs, and you’ve got yourself a great deal for some pretty good college hoops, especially if you’re bringing the family. Extras 2 When it comes to basketball, Rice doesn’t offer up the pageantry that many other college programs do – there is no mascot, no dance team, and no cheerleaders at its basketball games. Again, this is in large part due to the school’s standing as a leading a preeminent academic institution. However, what they do have – and what saves the score from being lower here – is the Rice Marching Owl Band , aka the MOB. Known for their irreverent song selection (what other band would play the theme song from The Muppet Show during a break in the action?) and attire, the Rice MOB is long known for its antics, as well as for riling up the crowd and the opposing players. Final Thoughts As mentioned, Tudor Fieldhouse will never be confused with any of the grand palaces of college basketball; but that’s okay, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re looking to introduce a young one to the sport of college basketball, or if you’re just looking to catch a game on your own, you’d be hard pressed to find a better way to spend your time or your money. I wouldn’t call it a bucket list spot, but I think you’ll have a good time if you stop in at Tudor Fieldhouse. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Millett Hall 500 E Sycamore St Oxford, OH 45056 Miami (OH) RedHawks website Millett Hall website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 6,400 Millett Hall is the Home of the Redhawks Millett Hall is home to the Miami Redhawks basketball and volleyball programs. The 9,200-seat multi-purpose venue hosted its first basketball game on December 2, 1968, with an 86-77 loss to the Kentucky Wildcats. The $7.5 million arena was named for John Millett, the university’s president from 1953-1964. The Redhawks have home-court advantage, posting a 147-37 record since the start of the 1993-1994 season. The close to .800 winning percentage is somewhat of an anomaly since the building is not considered one of the more intimidating places for opposing teams in the Mid-Atlantic Conference. The building was designed to host a myriad of events: from concerts to commencement ceremonies and is home to the ROTC program. Fans are somewhat at a distance from the court and many of the upper bowl seating is far away from the action. The Redhawks men’s basketball program has captured 20 MAC championships and has made 17 NCAA tournament appearances. A bronze statue of Wayne Embry stands outside the main entrance. Embry led the school to the 1957 and 1958 tournaments before an 11-year career in the NBA. He is currently a senior basketball advisor for the Toronto Raptors . Food & Beverage 3 There is not a large amount of variety in the game, but enough to satisfy you while watching the game. The concession stands are located near the entrance to the seating bowl and offer hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and soda. Alcoholic beverages are not sold during the game. Atmosphere 3 It appears that Millett Hall has not changed drastically since its opening in 1968. The building is somewhat of a time warp that offers new visitors a look back at arena construction from another era. It might not be as romantic as the likes of The Palestra or Hinkle Fieldhouse , but there is a sense of style throughout the building. The outer concourse is wide and features speckled floor tiles, natural lighting, and a slant roof that supports the upper-level seating. Fans enter the seating bowl up to levels of staircases that seem out of place at an arena. Brick interior, glass paneling, and open areas repeat a pattern in this area. A kid’s zone with multiple blow-up rides makes good use of the open space. There is plenty of activity for kids to take advantage of from slides, bouncy houses, and games. There is another area dedicated to the school’s Hall of Fame members that features framed photos from their playing days at Miami. Millett Hall Play Area, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The inner bowl offers two sections of seating that include red and mustard yellow cushioned seating. The aisles are carpeted and there are multiple areas where fans can enjoy a different vantage point of the game. The ceiling is low and features multiple lighting that provides a bit of darkness to the game in certain areas. There are plenty of open spaces at each end of the court, and one knock against the venue is that fans are not on top of the action. It is not necessarily the case with the first few rows of seating, and additional court-side seats are set up for fans to enjoy an up-close and personal view of the action. Additional highlights inside include a cube-video board that keeps up to the date record of players’ stats, retired jerseys, and multiple banners of the programs that play inside the arena. The band section is situated at one end of the court, and the cheerleaders and dance team are at the opposite end. Neighborhood 4 Oxford, Ohio has a population of 22,700, and the university has slightly fewer with an enrollment of 17,327. The small town is quite attractive and provides a scenic college atmosphere for its students while keeping visitors entertained during a visit to a basketball game. The campus has been described as “one of the prettiest campuses that ever was” by poet Robert Frost; its buildings are in the style characteristic of Georgian Revival architecture with all of them no more than three stories tall. The main college drag is High Street, a few blocks away from the campus and ballpark, where you can find a bevy of commerce at its bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The action starts early on the weekends with local watering holes packed with students. CJ’s, Varsity, Brick Street, and Steinkeller are a few of the hot spots if you choose to mingle with the young crowd. The area offers a few restaurants: High Street Grill, Paesano’s Pasta House, and local favorites Mac & Joe’s, Spring Hill Tavern, and Hitching Post Saloon. Skippers and Bagel & Deli Shop are next to one another and offer patio seating, half-yard pints of beer, and amazing sandwiches. It is a great way to fraternize with the local population on a warm fall afternoon. Fans 3 The Miami faithful is a knowledgeable group of supporters who cheer for every bucket or three-point made. The student section seating was not set up for the game we attended, and the lack of them could have added a bit more ambiance to the proceedings. However, the crowd gave the Redhawks an encouraging backdrop of claps, cheers, and a few boos when appropriate. Access 3 Miami University is tucked away in its little oasis and the town feels miles away from the metropolitan areas of Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Indianapolis. The small two-lane roads take you past farms, cornfields, and gravel roads; once on campus, it is easy to get around to and from the building. Millett Hall is on top of Weeb Ewbank Hill from the football stadium Yager Field. It is easily recognizable and offers plenty of free parking for motorists. Once inside the arena, the concourses are wide, and signage is plentiful for bathrooms, exits, concessions, and seating. Return on Investment 3 The price of a ticket to the game is $15 and $8 (12 and under) in advance. There is no longer a fee to park your vehicle, and concession items are fairly priced. A Redhawks basketball game should also include a visit to High Street or a hockey game at the Steve Cady Arena . Extras 2 Millett Hall earns a point for the statue of Wayne Embry on the outside of the building. The building receives a second point for free parking and easy access to the campus. Final Thoughts There is something different about attending a basketball game at Millett Hall. It’s not a basketball arena but a multi-purpose venue that serves many purposes, from sports to concerts. The building’s size hinders the experience slightly for fans who enjoy being close to the action of the court. The interior design could be updated and include touches that 21st-century fans marvel at. The place has good bones for such a transformation; perhaps that day will be here sooner than later. ----- 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: 3.71 State Farm Center 1800 S 1st St. Champaign, IL 61820 Illinois Fighting Illini website State Farm Center website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 15,500 It’s Called The Assembly Hall The State Farm Center at the University of Illinois is often still known affectionately as the Assembly Hall. The arena reopened with its new design in December 2015, after the first few “home” Illini games were played at Springfield’s Prairie Capital Convention Center. Max Abramovitz is a world-renowned architect that also designed the Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, Pittsburgh’s U.S. Steel Tower, and Paris’ Tour Gan. The University of Illinois alumnus also designed this building. It was once the world’s largest edge-supported dome and is 400 feet in diameter and rises 128 feet above the floor. Many people compare it to a UFO when looking from the outside. The roof is supported by 614 miles (988 km) of one-quarter-inch steel wire wrapped at the base of the dome under intensive pressure. It is the second-largest arena in the state, second only to the United Center in Chicago. Food & Beverage 4 There are some good, but pretty normal options available. Once the outside concourse is finalized, expect to see better operations out here. Hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, and pretzels are the usual suspects and are a pretty good value. Jalapeno cheese dogs and Kansas City-style pulled pork and Italian beef sandwiches and Polish sausages are some other options. Atmosphere 4 You will see orange at State Farm Center, lots of oranges. While the football team at Illinois has often tended to emphasize the color blue, orange tends to dominate the crowd attire at an Illini game. The dome structure means that the arena is very wide and open. Sometimes that means that the sound does not seem as intense as in some other arenas. The new suites and expansive seating options have made it more difficult to travel between some sections of the arena, something that was done pretty easily before the renovation. The big-money contributors still get the best seats, but it can mean that the closer you get to the court, the less rowdy of a crowd you will find. The Illini cheerleaders and dance squad are on hand to get the crowd riled up. The male cheerleaders used to run with a giant flag through the top deck of the arena, but the new design has made the 360 degrees run impossible. There is the new, high-quality scoreboard. New ribbon boards have also been installed above the suites. Your eye will be drawn to a large number of banners above the scoreboard. The 1989 and 2005 Final Four teams are prominent, but so are the jersey signs for the honored players of the entire history of the Illinois basketball program. The seats, as well as the outside concourses, are broken into large circular sections. The Orange Krush student seating section is different than it used to be. The suites do break up some of the flow of seating. Neighborhood 5 The neighborhood closest to the State Farm Center is mostly made up of research facilities, dorms, and academic buildings, not to mention high-quality athletic facilities. Culver’s at 2302 S Neil Street and Espresso Royale (1411 S Neil Street) are a couple of close quick service establishments nearby. A very short walk away is the area along Green and Wright Streets called “Campustown.” There are many bars, shops, and restaurants in this area, and they tend to cater to young college students. Older fans will want to center their post-game activities around downtown Champaign. Once a pretty boring downtown area, one will now find many bars and restaurants. The Esquire Lounge is a local icon and should be a stop for everyone. Try a pork chop sandwich and you will fit in nicely. Other great downtown spots are Blind Pig Brewery , Jupiter’s, and Farren’s Pub & Eatery (at a very hidden location at 308 N Randolph Street). There is also a much larger version of Jupiter’s on the outskirts of Champaign (2511 Village Green Place at The Crossing Center) that is also a good choice. If visiting that second Jupiter location also try Billy Barooz right next door (2521 Village Green Place at The Crossing Center). Urbana is a bit slower pace kind of town. But three places jump out as must-visits. Black Dog Smoke & Ale House offers amazing barbecue, just expect to wait in line to get in and that the tasty burnt ends will go quickly. Crane Alley is a nice bar with some great beers and Masijta Grill is a great Korean barbecue. Fans 3 Fans can get pretty loud. The main problem is Illinois has one of those programs that gives some of the best seats for the high-dollar donation types. That leaves the more rowdy “everyman” fan sitting further away from the game. Fans have also been known to sit on their hands during exciting parts of the game, even asking the more engaged fans to sit down. The student section, known as the Orange Krush, is almost always on point and keeps the feeling pretty intense. Big Ten Conference games are where you will see the fans get more intense. This is always a knowledgeable basketball crowd. They will cheer, jeer and get engaged as needed. Access 4 Champaign and Urbana are both easy cities to navigate. The State Farm Center is not located close to a major highway but most roads leading to the area will be four-lane ones. There are many parking lots available, but it would be a good idea to look at the official university parking site so that you head the right way. Champaign-Urbana is at the crossroads of I-57 and I-74, as well as being the eastern terminus for I-72 so getting to the area from Chicago, Indianapolis and points west will be pretty easy. Return on Investment 3 Big Ten games will cost the most of any ticket as they start around $50 and go upward. Attending a non-conference game can get you in much cheaper. Look for special ticket packages that include a mix of game types for the best value. The prices can be a bit high, but the level of talent at Illinois and their conference opponents is pretty amazing to watch live. Extras 4 The architecture of Max Abramovitz’s design is a great extra. From the outside, it looks like a giant UFO crashed along the prairies of east-central Illinois. Take a look at the names of the honored players. One will not only see a recent NBA star in Deron Williams but former Arizona Diamondbacks and Phoenix Suns owner Jerry Colangelo who played here at Illinois from 1960 to 1962. Check out the outer concourses to see if you see where the old and new parts of the venue are tied together. The Orange Krush student sections are an extra all in themselves. Final Thoughts This venerable old building with a unique UFO shape is a great place to watch some high-quality basketball. It will be the University of Illinois’ arena for some time to come.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Cotterell Court 201 Broad St. Hamilton, NY 13346 Colgate Raiders website Cotterell Court website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 1,750 Guardians of the Gate Cotterell Court is home to the Colgate University men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. It is part of the larger Reid Athletic Center, which contains both the basketball gym and the former J. Howard Starr Rink, which housed the Raiders hockey teams until 2016. The two facilities, built as twin Quonset Huts, are joined by a common lobby. Cotterell Court was dedicated in 1966 in honor of Wesley M. Cotterell, class of 1919, who was a two-time letterman and university trustee. Colgate competes in the Patriot League alongside nine other northeastern schools with high academic standards. The Raiders have qualified for four NCAA tournaments, losing in the first round each time. Four Colgate alumni have played in the NBA, including Ernie Vandeweghe and Adonal Foyle. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand in the main lobby which serves a limited menu. Hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, cookie dough, and assorted candy comprise the entire menu. Prices are what you would expect to see in a venue of this size, and the quality is decent enough. Coca-Cola products are featured at Cotterell Court, served in both cans and fountain versions. Alcohol is not served in this on-campus facility. Atmosphere 3 When you step into this small, cozy gym without a ton of modern amenities, you shouldn’t expect an over-the-top game day experience. What you are going to get is an old-school presentation that gets energy from the fans and the action on the court. Anything else just wouldn’t feel right here. When Cotterell Court is filled, it’s a rowdy, electric place to be. Unfortunately, since the place is generally less than half-full, there’s usually a laid-back vibe here. There’s no video board to distract, so all the focus is on the court. Colgate’s cheerleading squad performs throughout the game, throwing t-shirts into the stands after every Colgate three-pointer. The student section is located under the west basket and can get pretty rowdy when it’s filled with undergrads. For the most part, the students are scattered throughout the facility. Cotterell Court isn’t the loudest gym you’ll ever visit, and the lousy PA system doesn’t help matters. Neighborhood 3 Hamilton is a small town (well, technically a village) of only 4,000, so don’t expect a bustling downtown area, even on game night. What the area lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quaintness and small-town feel. There is a small downtown about a mile from the gym with a historic feel that’s a great place to stroll on a nice fall day. If looking for dining options, the Colgate Inn is located in a 200-year-old building and has been serving up great food for almost 90 years. You can also stay there. It is an inn, after all. Sports fans will want to visit Rusch’s Bar and Grill, where 20 beers on tap highlight a menu full of burgers, sandwiches, and pub fare. Do yourself a favor while visiting Colgate and tour the incredible campus. It’s consistently rated as one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation with a picturesque hillside location and singular architectural language. Fans 2 Colgate averages about 700 fans per game, less than half the capacity of Cotterell Court. This figure is also less than half the Patriot League average. While the fans do turn up for the big games, there’s usually plenty of room to spread out here at Colgate. The fans who visit Cotterell Court are made up of locals and alumni with a decent turnout by the student body. It is said that the majority of the faculty of Colgate University lives within ten miles of campus, and it feels that the same can be said about the crowd at a basketball game. Since the Raiders are the only game in town, the fans who show up are dedicated and knowledgeable about the team down on the court. The student section is located on the north end of the gym, where a few rows of bleachers are located right under the basket. Stadium Journey visited Colgate for the semifinals of the Patriot League tournament, so the section was packed with rowdy students. Much of the student body chose to spread out throughout the gym, creating a festive environment. The crowd is much sparser throughout the regular season. Access 4 Colgate University is located in rural Hamilton, New York, a village of just over 4,000 residents located in the Leatherstocking region of New York state. It is almost equidistant to the cities of Syracuse, Utica, and Binghamton. Hamilton is not a place you will stumble across accidentally. No highways serve the area directly, with Interstate 90 passing by about 30 minutes to the north and Interstate 88 about 40 minutes to the south. Cotterell Court is part of the Reid Athletic Center, a pair of Quonset Huts connected by a shared lobby. The Reid Center is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities, including the Class of 1965 Arena and Andy Kerr Stadium . Fans will enter the facility on the east (Broad Street) side into the main lobby. This small lobby is full of activity, with the concession stand, ticket booths, souvenir stand, and restrooms all scattered around. A giant Colgate “C” will be located directly in front of you, filled with Raider memorabilia. You will also see photos of all Colgate seniors posted around the lobby. There is plenty to see here before entering the gym, which is located to the right as you enter. Fans will enter Cotterell Court on the south side of the gym. You will enter just a few feet from the court, so you may have to dodge errant basketballs or players upon entry. Reserved seating will be located on your right and general admission on your left. All seats have excellent views of the court, if not a whole lot of legroom. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Colgate basketball games are very affordable, with reserved seating priced at $20 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. A General Admission ticket will cost $10, with seniors and children admitted for only $5. Group pricing starts at only $4 per ticket. Parking is free in the lots adjacent to the Reid Athletic Center. With inexpensive concessions, a trip to a Colgate basketball game is a very affordable entertainment option for central New York sports fans. Extras 3 Extra points are awarded for the sense of history at Cotterell Court and the Reid Athletic Center. From the time you step foot inside the facility, you are bombarded with Colgate athletic history. You could get lost checking out all the displays in the lobby, from the giant C-shaped trophy case located front and center to the smaller cases scattered throughout the lobby. Don’t get so distracted you forget to watch the game. Inside Cotterell Court, banners hang honoring the many championship teams to call the gym home. A final extra point is awarded for the beautiful Colgate campus. Do yourself a favor and get to Hamilton early and check out the campus’ architecture in this incredible setting. Final Thoughts A visit to the village of Hamilton may feel like a trip back in time, and that’s precisely part of the appeal of a visit to central New York. Classic architecture, an old-school barn, and a laid-back gameday presentation combine to make Colgate one of those Stadium Journeys that make traveling the D-1 landscape so worthwhile. ------ Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 McKethan Field 2800 Citrus Road Gainesville, FL 32611 Florida Gators website McKethan Field website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 7,000 Gators Aided by Their New Stadium The Florida Gators baseball team moved into their brand new $65 million ballpark in time for the 2021 season. The Gators have a long tradition in the sport, as they have fielded a baseball program since 1912. The team has won 15 SEC Championships, 7 SEC Tournament Championships, and made 12 College World Series Appearances. They won the NCAA National Championship in 2017. Florida Ballpark was built to help the Gators compete in the very competitive SEC baseball wars. In recent years, the University of Alabama, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State University have either built new ballparks or undertaken major renovations to improve their baseball venues. The new home of the Gators seats 7,000 which includes 4,000 chairback seats, 700 club seats in its second level, and seating for 2,000 on the berms in the outfield. Florida Ballpark also offers a 360-degree open concourse to allow for easy navigation around the field. The stadium now has a permanent Sports Shop, replacing a pop-up version that was used at the former site. The stadium also has a state-of-the-art sound system and a giant LED scoreboard/videoboard in right field. The facility has a grass field. The dimensions of the field are 330’ to left field, 400’ to center, and 330’ to right field. Food & Beverage 5 One of the major improvements of Florida Ballpark over the former home of the Gators is the food and beverage selection for the fans. Each stand in the park offers a different set of food options. The 1st Base Line Grill offers brisket nachos ($16), smoked BBQ pork melts ($15), chicken tenders ($12), cheeseburgers ($12), chicken Caesar wraps ($12), and hot dogs ($5). Snacks include popcorn ($4), pretzels ($5), peanuts ($4), and candy ($4). This location includes a Watermelon Refresher ($9), which includes watermelon cubes, lime juice, and chili seasoning as a great way to cool off. Beverages include Pepsi brand sodas ($6), water ($4), coffee ($4), and of course, Gatorade ($4). The 3rd Base Line Grill offers shrimp po’boys ($12), a classic Cuban sandwich ($15), chicken tenders ($12), several choices of pizza ($7), and a Fried Key Lime pie ($11). The same beverages are sold at this location as the 1st Base Line Grill. The outfield berms and Dizney Grove are serviced by a rotating set of food trucks. These include B’z Gelati, The Chili Wagon, Kona Ice, Big Lee’s BBQ, Mayflower Cellars, and Hick’s Grill Shack. Food can be ordered via the Florida Gators app and picked up at the Express Line, saving fans from having to get in a long line between innings. Atmosphere 4 The athletic department wanted to ensure the comfort of fans attending the games in the hot and humid weather that Gainesville can experience in the late spring. They included ceiling fans along the concourses and included a canopy to cover all the fans in the club level and other shade-providing structures in other portions of the park. These were major improvements over the former home of the Gators. Sun Shade Structure at Florida Ballpark, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey The addition of the Dizney Grove and berm seating areas have created some non-traditional seating areas and have been very popular with the Gator fans. Neighborhood 3 The new home of Florida Gators baseball has been relocated across the university campus from its former home next to the McConnell Center. It now is located on the southwest corner of the campus. This was not the original plan, but designers felt the footprint of the old stadium location was not large enough to include all the features that the athletic department wanted as a part of the new facility. The new site enabled the facility to include several hundred parking spaces adjacent to the stadium, doing away with the shuttle bus system that was required in the congested area of the former ballpark. Another reason for choosing the new site was that the playing field could be reconfigured to have home plate relocated to face northeast so the sun would not be in the fan’s and players’ eyes. Fans 4 You can usually expect a full house at Gator baseball games. The fan base has lofty expectations every season, as the baseball program has been a regular in the NCAA baseball playoffs and the College World Series. The 200 level at Florida Ballpark is filled with the boosters and monied alumni of the school. They typically are decked out in the blue and orange colors of the team. The main seating bowl is a mix of the old guard and younger alumni with their families. They enjoy the games but can be pried away by visits with the Gators mascot Albert. This lower level gets excited when someone starts the Gator Chomp cheer, and it winds up going around the stadium like a wave. The berms and Dizney Grove areas behind the outfield fences are mostly populated by University of Florida students. These areas are great for spring sunbathing and other social activities. To serve these students’ dining needs, the stadium has lined up a rotating set of food trucks to be present at each game. Access 4 Florida Ballpark has greatly improved the accessibility compared to the former stadium site. McKethan Stadium was in a very congested area which included the McConnell Center and many other athletic structures with little or no parking adjacent to the park. The new site has parking for more than 400 vehicles. It is also located closer to another entrance to the University of Florida campus that is far less congested than when it was alone. The stadium has 4 major entrances, with one each along the third base, first base, and first baselines and one leading into the berm seating area in Dizney Grove. The concourses are much wider than before, and ticket entry is much faster as the site uses a touchless ticketing system. Return on Investment 4 An afternoon or an evening out at a Gators baseball game will not cost you a lot. Tickets start at $5 for berm seating in the outfield with other price points of $10 down the first and third baselines, $20 for seats behind home plate, and $30 for club seats on the second level of the stadium. Parking is free at Florida Ballpark. The food and beverage cost inside the stadium is average for any ballpark. If you are traveling to Gainesville from out of town, there is a wide range of accommodations near the ballpark that can meet any price point. Lodging is much cheaper in the spring than it is during the football season. Gainesville is serviced by its own airport, but it can be very pricey. It is much cheaper to fly into Jacksonville and then drive the 90 minutes to Gainesville. Extras 4 Florida Ballpark has several areas around the stadium that feature highlights of the Gators baseball programs, past championships earned by the programs, and Gator players who have gone on to major league baseball. Kudos go to the designers for including several features in the park that provide protection from the sun and hot and muggy weather. The food offerings at Florida Ballpark are much more diverse than most college baseball stadiums. Final Thoughts The University of Florida has made a major step forward in SEC baseball with the opening of McKethan Field at Florida Ballpark. It offers several amenities that improve the fan experience, including sunscreens to provide shade from the hot Florida sun, a diverse menu of concession items, and unique seating options in the Dizney Grove and berm areas. The new stadium will also serve as a major recruiting tool for future Gator ballplayers.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Malcolm U. Pitt Field Lakeview Ln Richmond, VA 23173 Richmond Spiders website Malcolm U. Pitt Field website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 600 The Spiders Web Located on the scenic University of Richmond campus on the edge of the city of Richmond, Malcolm U. Pitt Field is home to the Spiders’ baseball team. The stadium sits in between the Robins Center and Westhampton Lake and has seating for 600 fans. Pitt Field opened in 1975 and has undergone several renovations over the years. A new sound system and scoreboard were added in 2008 and artificial turf was added in 2015. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand at Pitt Field located at a window on the first base side of the press box. The only things you can really make a meal out of are nachos ($5) and hot dogs ($3) but there are plenty of snacks available including typical items like peanuts and caramel corn and more unusual items such as trail mix. Soda and bottled water are available as well, with nothing other than the nachos costing more than $4 and most items being $3 or less. Credit cards are accepted, as is cash. Atmosphere 2 Pitt Field has a rather basic layout of two sets of bleachers, one on each side of the press box/concession stand. You will access the bleachers from a stairway on the side furthest down the lines, while another stairwell on the other side will take you to an area where the press box and concession stand are. None of the bleachers have backs, but people in the top row can lean against the back fence. There is a scoreboard in the outfield which shows a linescore and other basic information. Most prominently, there is a giant Spider logo across the outfield. The experience at a Spiders game is rather basic – there is the usual music between innings and as baters walk up, and the sound system is decent enough, but beyond that there is not much going on other than the game itself. This can be fun for some fans, but those looking for a bit more excitement like you’d get at a minor league game will be disappointed. Neighborhood 3 Richmond’s campus is about 20-30 minutes from downtown Richmond, right on the edge of the city limits. In fact, as fans of rival school VCU will love to point out, only about half of the University of Richmond campus is actually in the City of Richmond. The other half is in neighboring Henrico County. If you head down Three Chopt Road, there are a few restaurants and other places available, but your best bet is to head about three miles east on Route 147 to the Carytown neighborhood which has far more options available. We recommend the Galaxy Diner and Carytown Burgers and Fries as your best bets. Fans 4 Although Pitt Field only seats about 600, the bleachers can get pretty full during the game, particularly the ones on the third base side behind the Spiders dugout. Fans range from those who have been following the Spiders for years to little kids clearly attending their first baseball game whose parents patiently explain the basic rules to them as they watch. Fans can get quite into it, especially after big hits and defensive plays by the Spiders, and most of them stay for the entire game even if it becomes a massive blowout as it did during Stadium Journey’s visit. Access 3 The Richmond campus is located a couple miles off I-64, the Downtown Expressway, or the Powhite Parkway, depending on where you are coming from. The first route is toll-free but the second two have small tolls. Once you arrive on campus, there is ample parking available in a large lot between the stadium and the Robins Center. Just keep in mind those spaces marked in yellow are within range of home run balls – park there at your own risk or park in the white spaces further away. Note that for early season games on the same day as a Spiders basketball game, the parking situation can be completely different so check the Richmond athletics website to confirm. Once you’ve parked, however, getting to and around the stadium can be surprisingly complicated. You will need to walk down a small staircase at the back of the lot, down a path, and then up another small incline and staircase to get to the bleachers. To access the concession stand, you will need to walk down yet another staircase at the other end of the bleachers. Restrooms are located in a trailer behind the ballpark. To get there, you will need to walk out of, around, and behind the bleachers to the bottom of the hill, where you will find the trailer in between the back of the press box and the lake. The restrooms are single-occupant so you may have to wait for the previous user, but they are real restrooms, not Port-a-Potties. There is men’s restroom, a women’s restroom, and a unisex one if needed or preferred. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Spiders baseball is free, parking is free, and concessions are affordable. Depending on where you are coming from, you may have to pay a small toll to get there, but this should not be more than a dollar or two. For a chance to see a live baseball game on a scenic campus with great fans, this is well worth it. Extras 2 There are free programs in a box to the right of the concession stand. A second and final star for the giant Spider logo in the outfield, one of the more unique nicknames in sports. Final Thoughts Although it only seats 600 fans, Pitt Field is just the right size for the crowd it draws. Although the experience the team puts forth is rather basic, that is made up for by the great fans who come to cheer on their beloved Spiders. From the youngest children to those who have been going to games here since the stadium was built almost 50 years ago, everyone can have a good time at Pitt Field.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Tribute Communities Centre 99 Athol St E Oshawa, ON L1H 1J8 Oshawa Generals website Tribute Communities Centre website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 5,180 Generally Speaking … One of the cornerstone franchises of the Ontario Hockey League is the Oshawa Generals. For many years, Oshawa, Ontario was the Canadian incarnation of the Motor City, with General Motors having a massive presence in the city, including the Canadian headquarters. The Generals moniker, therefore, has no link to the military, but to the car manufacturer. The current home of the Generals was also originally named the General Motors Centre. With a lineage that goes back to Oshawa’s favourite adopted son, Bobby Orr, the Generals are one of the most successful teams to ever take the ice in Ontario. The Generals hold the record for most J. Ross Robertson Cups as OHL Champions, with 13. The Generals also boast an impressive five Memorial Cups, which is also more than any other current Canadian Hockey League franchise. The Generals were founded in 1937 and were forced to take a hiatus in the fifties when their home arena burned down. The Gens resurfaced in 1962 and are currently owned by Rocco Tullio. In 2006, the Oshawa Generals moved to the brand new, City of Oshawa-owned General Motors Centre. Moving out of the old Oshawa Civic Auditorium was a boost for the team and has allowed Oshawa to be the host city for Memorial Cup. In 2016, the naming rights were purchased by Tribute Communities, a property development company, and the arena was renamed the Tribute Communities Centre. Food & Beverage 3 With pandemic restrictions being in transition at the time of this review, it appears that concessions are back open at Tribute Communities Centre, in full force. Concession options are what one would expect. All of the expected options are present with burgers, sausage, hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and Pizza Pizza slices available at multiple purchase points. Coca-Cola provides soft drink options and there are also a few beer options available including Budweiser, Bud Light, and Michelob Ultra. There are also some cider and cooler options available. The concession lineup is decent, but there is nothing that will blow fans away. Atmosphere 4 The Tribute Communities Centre is designed like many other arenas in the Ontario Hockey League. The exterior is attractive with the main entrance along Athlol Street. The main square features a unique mirrored sculpture that defies description, yet provides a terrific meeting place and item for exploration. Fans can take Red Tilson Lane, named after the Gens war veteran, past the sculpture from Athol Street to Bruce Street on the other side of the building. Upon entering the main doors, fans are immediately met with a large staircase leading to the main concourse. Ground-level also sends fans to a modest team store. The main concourse gives fans the impression that the Tribute Communities Centre is like so many other OHL facilities. The concourse is behind the top row of seats in the seating bowl and is open so fans can see the action on the ice while traversing the concourse. The entry points to the seating bowl have signage sharing the Generals Ring of Excellence. Members include John Humphreys, John Stevens, Terry O’Reilly, Alex Delvecchio, Rick Middleton, Joe Cirella, Roy Sawyer, John MacLean, Jason Arnott, Billy Taylor, Darryl Lafrance, Ian Young, Scott McCrory, Paul Theriault, Dean Morton, Iain Fraser, Nathan Horton, Wayne Cashman, Bryan Allen, Bob Attersley, Floyd Curry, Matt Leyden, Jeff Daniels, and Dave Andreychuck. The six of the most prominent Generals do not have Ring of Excellence signage as they have their numbers retired, hanging from banners on the east side of the arena. John Tavares, Eric Lindros, Marc Savard, Tony Tanti, Red Tilson (who gave his life in World War II), and Bobby Orr each hold the most honoured place among Generals Alumni. On the south side of the building, fans have the opportunity to pursue the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame and Museum which is a treasure trove of memorabilia and artifacts not only about the Generals but for the entire region across sports. Enshrined members of the Hall of Fame can be found in frames around the arena The seating bowl is pretty much a single-tier bowl with standing room behind the seating bowl. The concourses are open to the seating bowl and the opportunity to see the game while at the concession stand is there. Above the seating bowl on the south side are several luxury boxes and the Prospects Grill offers some alternative seating, with a full-service restaurant, on the north side. The video board at centre ice is not overpowering, but clear and used effectively. The pride of the Generals can be found on both the east and west sides of the scoreboard. On the west side, the banners for the thirteen J.Ross Robertson Cups hang. The Gens took home the Ontario or OHL championship in 1938, 1939, 1940, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1966, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1997 and 2015. On the east side banners for the Memorial Cup victories of 1939, 1940, 1944, 1990, and 2015 hang. It is hard to find a junior hockey team more decorated than the Generals. The game day experience is about what can be expected for an OHL team. The music is what you would expect with a variety of contemporary and classic rock. The Gens mascot, Deke, can be found around the arena interacting with the fans and the opportunity to win some money is available with the 50/50 draw. Neighbourhood 4 The Tribute Communities Centre is located in the Central Oshawa neighbourhood of the city. Oshawa has a population of 166,000, so it is not a huge city. However, Central Oshawa does have a few spots of interest for fans who are looking for pre or post-game food and drink. Right inside the Tribute Communities Centre, fans may wish to try out the Prospects Bar & Grill. Other options within walking distance include Smoke’s Poutinerie, Wing Addicts, Kings Corner, Brew Wizards Board Game Cafe, Riley’s Pub, and Top Corner Grill & BBQ. There are also a few fast food and chain restaurants around. Wendel Clark’s is heavily advertised and is a few blocks from the arena and may be the spot to try, especially for Toronto Maple Leaf fans. Fans looking for some other sporting options will want to head over to Ontario Tech University, where the Ridgebacks play hockey at Campus Ice Centre and basketball at Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre . If that is not quite enough, heading to Toronto for all that there is to offer there is an option. A few steps from the TCC is the Canadian Automotive Museum, which may be of interest also. For fans wishing to stay in Central Oshawa, La Quinta Inn & Suites Oshawa is a block away from the arena. Holiday Inn Express Oshawa is also a couple of blocks away. Fans 4 Although it is difficult to assess fans during the pandemic years, Oshawa has consistently been in the top 4 in OHL attendance. In normal years, the Generals average over 5,000 fans per game, which is very strong for the OHL. Even in the pandemic challenged the year 2021-2022, the Generals have averaged over 3,100 fans and are fifth in the OHL. Generals fans are knowledgeable about the game and their team. They are also pretty typical of the Ontario sports fan, which is not over-the-top and fairly reserved, who knows when to cheer and when to jeer. Access 4 Getting to the Tribute Communities Centre is not too difficult. The arena is less than 3 km from Highway 401, the main east-west artery in Ontario. There are a few parking options near the arena and the traffic is not terrible in Central Oshawa. For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, there are some bus stops on King Street East, a block north of the arena. Fans should check out the Durham Region Transit website for maps, fares, and schedules. Getting around in the TCC can be a little challenging, as it can be in many venues. The concourses are not huge and can get congested during intermissions when there is a big crowd. The washroom facilities are decent in the TCC. Security and Covid restrictions are consistently in flux in Ontario. Stadium Journey encourages fans to check out the Oshawa Generals website before heading to the game to be fully informed. Return on Investment 5 Oshawa Generals hockey provides tremendous value for the sporting dollar. Seats range from $22 to $38 with the majority of seats at the $22 price point. Tickets will cost a couple of dollars more when purchased on game day. Parking can be found around the arena for around $5 and concession prices are average for this league. The product on the ice is fantastic and exciting. When compared with NHL hockey, the OHL experience gives far better bang for the fan’s buck. Extras 3 An extra mark for the tremendous history enjoyed by the Oshawa Generals and the fantastic job that they do putting it on display at the Tribute. An extra mark for the unique two-tone helmets that have been an Oshawa staple for years. An extra mark for the lengthy rivalry that the Generals have fostered with the nearby Peterborough Petes . Final Thoughts Being one of the cornerstones of the OHL comes with some expectations. The Oshawa Generals meet those expectations and then some. Catching some Oshawa Generals hockey is a tremendous hockey experience and a spot where hockey fans will be glad that they came. It is a little strange sounding that the Generals no longer play in the General Motors Centre, but Generally Speaking, Oshawa knows its hockey. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram .

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Zions Bank Stadium 14788 South Academy Parkway Herriman, UT 84096 Utah Warriors website Zions Bank Stadium website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 5,000 Rugby In Utah Zions Bank Stadium is located in Herriman, Utah. The stadium is home to Real Monarchs, an MLS Next Pro team affiliated with Real Salt Lake of the MLS, and the Utah Warriors. The stadium is located in the same facility (Zions Bank Real Academy) as the Real Salt Lake training center which includes indoor and outdoor soccer pitches. There is also a STEM charter school for both developing players and residents of the nearby areas. The location of the school did mean that the stadium had to change the location of its main entrance to the northwest corner to skirt local liquor regulations. The Utah Warriors compete in Major League Rugby. The team started in 2017 as a successor to a previous Warriors team. Food & Beverage 3 The food is reasonably priced at the stadium. The two main concession stands have good food at decent prices. There is usually at least one food truck at matches. The game we attended had a truck offering New Zealand meat pies, which is perfect for the rugby crowd. Atmosphere 5 The stadium is a nicely designed facility that offers a great atmosphere, as well as spectacular mountain views. There is an intimate viewing experience here as the two grandstands are close to the field. The main set of stands has seatbacks and the other only bench-style seating. The scoreboard is well-designed and the Warriors have a fun “cat” mascot to entertain the crowd. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is about a 30-minute drive south of downtown Salt Lake City and is in a rapidly growing suburb. Right now the area around the stadium is a fast-developing residential neighborhood. You will need to drive a small distance towards I-15 for many food offerings. Fans 5 The Warriors fanbase is very rabid and makes attending a game here quite fun. Rugby suits the stadium well. Access 4 Getting to Herriman is easy, as it is located not far away from I-15. Parking is $10. Expect a bit of traffic getting out of the event as the exit roads are monitored by traffic cops who keep it very controlled. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range from the low teens to nearly $50. This could vary by game. Parking is $10 per car. The prices are fair and offer a good value. Extras 4 The team mascot seems to engage with the crowds well and there are giveaways at the entrance to the stadium. The fact that there is a high school located in the stadium is unique. You can even see signage for the school right from the stadium stands. You may not be able to take a look around the whole facility, but if you get a chance try and see what you can as the whole thing is pretty amazing. The views! Seeing the spectacular mountains in the distance makes a game here special. Having that backdrop to the stadium is an extra all of its own. Final Thoughts Zions Bank Stadium is a nice and intimate stadium with amazing mountain views, that is a great place to watch rugby.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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