Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Quinnipiac Baseball Field 275 Mt Carmel Ave Hamden, CT 06518 Quinnipiac Bobcats website Quinnipiac Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 500 In the Shadow of the Sleeping Giant Many ballparks boast of stunning views beyond their outfield fences. City skylines rise beyond ballparks in Pittsburgh and St. Louis, ocean vistas in Brooklyn and Pensacola attract the eye, and spectacular mountain views can be seen in Ogden. Tiny Quinnipiac Baseball Field boasts its own natural backdrop. Even better, fans don’t have to spend a cent to take in a ballgame with this view. Located in the shadows of Sleeping Giant Mountain Park, Quinnipiac Baseball Field was built in 1966 by a group of students. For decades it served as home to Bobcat baseball. In preparation for the 2024 season, the entire park was redone. These renovations included the installation of field turf throughout the facility, new fencing and new dugouts. As part of these improvements, the field’s legendary right field berm was removed from the field of play. Quinnipiac competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference alongside several other schools located primarily in the New York City metro area. The Bobcats have appeared in two NCAA Tournaments, in 2005 and 2019. The team has yet to advance past the Regional round, although they did win one game in the 2019 tournament. One Quinnipiac alumnus, Turk Wendell, has played in the Major Leagues. Food & Beverage 0 There are no concessions sold at Quinnipiac Baseball Field. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks to enjoy during the game (just no alcohol, please). If you need to grab something during a Bobcats game, there are vending machines in the nearby (well, maybe not so nearby) Athletic and Recreation Center. Atmosphere 2 The gameday atmosphere at a Quinnipiac baseball game is typical of other college ballparks in the northeast. The presentation is simple and understated. Frankly, anything more than the basics would feel terribly out of place here. The ball field is dominated by its backdrop, Sleeping Giant Mountain. In keeping with this most natural of ballpark sites, there’s not a lot of extras to be found. Ballpark noises not produced on the field or by the fans (i.e. music and PA announcements) are provided via a pair of temporary speakers set up behind home plate, where the Quinnipiac game day staff post up. All extraneous noise is kept to a minimum. A simple scoreboard in right field provides count, inning and score. Neighborhood 3 Right across the street from Quinnipiac Baseball Field is Sleeping Giant State Park, a popular destination for hiking and other outdoor activities. The mountain got its name due to its resemblance to a person laying down. If visiting the area on a nice spring afternoon, the many trails here are worth exploring before a game. While Hamden is a lovely community, once named as one of America’s “best small cities” by CNN Money, it is hardly a destination location. There are no dining or lodging options within immediate walking distance of campus. Nearby Whitney Street is filled with strip malls, which give visiting fans some options for pre- and postgame dining. Many visiting fans will instead opt to head into New Haven, which has a well-deserved reputation as a foodie hotspot. Whitney Avenue dissects the two Quinnipiac campuses. As mentioned before, there are plenty of eateries here if you wish to stay local. Eli’s on Whitney is a Bobcats sponsor and a popular choice of Bobcat fans. If you continue south on Whitney Ave. for a few miles you will find yourself in downtown New Haven on the campus of the Bobcats’ chief hockey rival, Yale University. Visiting fans will find plenty of lodging and dining options in this area, including Louis’ Lunch, the birthplace of the hamburger, Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s, the originators of New Haven-style apizza. Fans 2 Crowds at Quinnipiac baseball games can accurately be described as a “friends and family” type of gathering. Generally numbering between 100-200 fans, most of the people in attendance have a personal connection to the players on the field. As you can imagine, this means that they are knowledgeable about the game and enthusiastic in their support. With the compact geographic footprint of the MAAC conference, it’s not unusual to see strong support by visiting fans. Access 4 Quinnipiac is located in the New Haven suburb of Hamden. This town of just over 60,000 residents is located just to the north of New Haven. Quinnipiac University is located in the Mount Carmel neighborhood on the northern edge of town. The university is split into two campuses about a mile from each other on opposite sides of Whitney Avenue. Most of the school’s athletic facilities are located on the older Mount Carmel campus. The newer York Hill campus contains M&T Bank Arena, home of the Bobcat hockey and basketball teams. The university is easily reached via Interstate 91, which runs a few miles east of campus. Visiting fans will take exit 10 off I-91 to the Mt. Carmel Connector (Route 40). Travel just over a mile north on Whitney Avenue to Mount Carmel Avenue, and the entrance to the campus will be on your right. The construction on the ball field, along with the adjoining rugby field and tennis courts, was finished just before the baseball season started. As a result, not everything at Quinnipiac Baseball Field was 100% finished as of Stadium Journey’s visit. Most notably, there is a gigantic mound of dirt in between the parking lot and the field. There are plans to landscape this mound into a viewing hill, which will return some of the facility’s natural charm. For 2024, this area is roped off and inaccessible. Fans must walk around this dirt pile on their way to the field from the parking lot. The only seating at the ballpark is in the form of a pair of metal bleachers located well beyond first base. Look for some bleachers to return to their familiar spot behind home plate in the future. The field’s signature right field berm, while not in the field of play anymore, is still there beyond the fence. It provides a nice place for fans to sit and bring their own chairs to take in the action. Rest rooms are located in the Athletic and Recreation Center adjacent to the parking lot. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to a Quinnipiac baseball game. With free parking in the lot on the other side of the huge dirt mound and no concessions on site, you won’t spend a single cent when watching a Bobcats game. Extras 1 In 2024 Quinnipiac honored Class of 1970 alumnus, longtime baseball coach and Director of Operations Dan Gooley. Gooley holds the school’s strikeout record and racked up 439 wins during his tenure as the Bobcats’ head coach. His number 15 is posted on the right field wall. Final Thoughts While the renovations undertaken at Quinnipiac Baseball Field are undoubtedly great news for the players and for recruiting, it’s taken away much of the charm of this old ball field. Maybe this will change when everything is finished. For now, we’ll give QU Baseball Field an incomplete and look forward to our next visit. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Don Brandon Field Graceland Ave. Anderson, IN 46012 Anderson University website Don Brandon Field website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 500 The Boys of Spring in Anderson Dan Brandon Field is the home of the Anderson University Ravens baseball team. The field features a natural grass outfield and a synthetic turf infield. The grandstand offers seating for 500, along with a grass berm area down the left-field foul line, 80-foot dugouts, a brick press box, and a concession stand. The field received a new synthetic infield and foul turf for the 2024 season. The new playing field was installed by Maumee Bay Turf and paid for by numerous donations from baseball alumni and other supporters, including lead gifts from two estates. The outfield remains natural grass. The turf hopes to reduce weather delays and cancellations along with less maintenance. The ballpark was renamed in 2010 after former coach Don Brandon. Three years later, a new brick press box was installed before the start of the 2013 season that also included a brick backstop and dugouts. The old press box was relocated a few yards away to the softball field. Brandon coached the ball club from 1972-2010. During his 38 seasons, the Ravens amassed 1,110 victories, 13 conference titles, 12 NAIA District titles, 5 NAIA World Series, and one NCAA National Championship in 1991. The Ravens are members of the Division III Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference. Brandon also played for Anderson under another famous coach, hometown hero Carl Erskine. Erskine, who passed away less than a week after our visit, was one of the last Boys of Summers of the 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers World Series championship team. He coached the Ravens for 12 seasons and won the 1965 NAIA World Series. Erskine managed the Ravens when they played a t Memorial Stadium , 3 miles from campus. Food & Beverage 3 Brandon Field has a concession stand. The volunteer staff grills all-beef hot dogs and cook a batch of Spanish sauce (think of a Manwich sauce) in a crock pot for hot dogs and sloppy joes. The sloppy dog is a popular choice among visitors and is spooned over a hot dog. Cans of Coke products, water, chips, and candy are also available. Atmosphere 3 Don Brandon Field is a simple brick stadium with three sets of wooden bleachers. The grandstand is 10-rows high and separated into three sections with a lower concourse for easy access. The design is ideal for the Ravens and offers everything a fan would need for this level of baseball. The baseball banter can be heard from the respective dugouts. Fans are close to the action on the field and line up the left and right field foul lines with lawn chairs, blankets, and dogs on leashes. It is a simple atmosphere but reminiscent of other levels of college baseball throughout the Midwest and Northeast. The outfield fence is lined up with pine trees to provide a pleasant backdrop for the game. Banners hang from the back of the grandstand with images, team history, and mottos. The concession stand sits below the press box. The only complaint might be the scoreboard, which makes it hard to read the score and strikes and outs from the grandstand. Neighborhood 2 There are no restaurants or retail stores within walking distance of campus, but less than a mile from the ballpark is Gene’s Root Beer Stand. It has been an intuition since 1964 and serves Spanish dogs, burgers, sandwiches, and homemade root beer. A few miles down the main road towards the interstate are chain restaurants and fast food joints. However, visit The Lemon Drop, a hot spot since 1953 known for its onionburgers, homemade onion rings, chocolate Cokes, and old-fashioned milkshakes. Fans 3 The fan base consists of family members, friends, and curiosity seekers checking out the game. Parents call out their kids by name when they are at bat, fans clap when there is a hit, and the crowd roars when a run crosses home plate.  Access 3 The ballpark is a simple structure with easy access to the grandstand by a small staircase and a concession stand in front of the main grandstand. There are port-a-potties located a few yards away from the main entrance and some of the freshest-smelling ones I have used. Parking can be confusing for the first-time visitor as the only way to access the parking lot is to drive behind the football field grandstand when the gates are open. If that is not available, fans park in front of the football stadium and walk around the perimeter. Return on Investment 4 All games are free of charge, hot dogs are $2 to $3, chips are $1, and cans of sodas are $2. A weekend game brings a warm crowd into the game, and the dugouts create a lot of noise. The backdrop of pine trees and warm spring days creates an ideal way to spend an afternoon at the ballpark. Extras 3 The ballpark earns an extra point for its sloppy dogs, which are $3 and well worth the price. The second point is for the fan who hands out free Blow Pops to everyone in the grandstand. The final point is for the synthetic infield that creates fewer rainouts during the spring season. Final Thoughts There are some great Division 3 ballparks in Indiana, and Anderson University has one of them. It's a very inexpensive way to spend a spring afternoon watching baseball and perhaps a chance to appreciate the game at a different level than the minor leagues or Division I. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and Instagram .

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mullett Arena 411 S Packard Drive Tempe, AZ 85281 Arizona Coyotes website Mullett Arena website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 4,600 Temporary in Tempe, Coyotes To Flee Arizona The story of Mullett Arena must be told in two parts: The first part is the impending departure of the Arizona Coyotes from not only Mullett, on the campus of Arizona State University in Tempe, but from the state of Arizona and winding up in Salt Lake City, Utah to play in the Delta Center next season (2023-24). The second part is the actual review of Mullett Arena which may never host a professional game again and could soon turn back into a college arena for its original intended purpose. First let’s tackle the sudden departure of the Coyotes, who play in the NHL’s Central Division. A new arena was first turned down by voters in Tempe last May which scuttled a potential new home. Then, owner Alex Meruelo, announced a plan to bid on land off the 101 Loop in Phoenix on the border of Scottsdale to build a new majestic home which was planned to open in fall of 2027.  The NHL Board of Governors got impatient with a plan that included much uncertainly including the Coyotes having to first win an auction on June 27 to construct a new arena and entertainment district.  It gets even stranger as Meruelo is expected to have a five-year window to bring an expansion team back to the Phoenix area if they can win the auction on the 110-acre site.  Meruelo will keep the name and trademark for that time. It was a crushing blow for Coyote and Arizona hockey fans and stunned many of the team’s employees and players.  The Yotes have been a part of the Phoenix area for 18 seasons. For what it is, Mullett offers a charming setting for fans who can get close to the action and see and hear everything up close.  It is not an NHL venue, but seeing top-flight players in such an intimate setting is fabulous.  Mullett also hosts ASU men's and women’s hockey, women’s gymnastics, men’s wrestling, and occasional concerts and shows (5000 capacity). The facility is named in honor of Donald and Barbara Mullett, two of the university's benefactors. The building also houses the Mountain American Community Iceplex, offering public ice skating sessions. If the Salt Lake City plan goes forward, the Coyotes will be the first NHL team to relocate since the Atlanta Thrashers moved to Winnipeg in 2011. Food & Beverage 3 The food is basic fare since it is a college venue. Attendees can bring in one unopened water bottle.  Otherwise, a Dasani runs $5 and the price is $6 for bottled soda (Coca-Cola products). The food options include Sparky’s Hot Spot with Nachos, Bratwurst, and Philly Cheesesteaks, Big Chicken (founded by Shaquille O’Neal), Neighborhood Burger Joint, and a Pizza Place (Venezia’s).  Hot dogs run $6, beer is $14 and a burger costs $16. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere is all about the proximity to the playing surface.  Since the building is not large it can get loud. There's a drum corp behind sections 115 -116 all game, so it can get a bit loud if you're at the back of those sections. The howl of the Coyote and the Coyote's goal song “I’m Howling For You” by the Black Keys gets the joint jumping. The cheerleaders also contribute by dancing in the aisles during stoppages and attempting to energize the fanbase. Howler is the mascot and is often seen roaming the arena. One of the coolest parts is if you go through the main entrance, there's a large concession stand on the left and a merch kiosk on the right. On the left, there is a glass wall where fans can watch the visiting team enter/exit their locker room between periods up close and personal. One drawback is fans cannot go completely around the arena as there is restricted access to The Club area behind sections 119, 120, 101, 102, & 103. Sections 114-117, which is the ASU student section, is bleacher seating with no seat backs. The center-hung scoreboard seems so small compared to the typical big boards at standard NHL venues. Navigating the narrow concourse is a constant challenge since the venue was not designed for a professional team. Neighborhood 4 Mullett Arena is located in the city of Tempe which is a college town.  It is a great place for both pre and post-game activities with a plethora of bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels.  The bar/restaurant scene is most vibrant on Mill Avenue.  There are also two great places for burgers: The Chuckbox at 202 E. University Drive and In-n-Out Burger at 920 E Playa Del Norte Drive. A Marriott Residence Inn and Hyatt House/Place are just outside the confines of Mullett Arena. Another great activity is to Hike Tempe Butte which is just three minutes away from Mullett. The hike is only 0.7 miles up and back with great vistas at the top.  Remember to bring water and enjoy the majestic views of Tempe and downtown Phoenix (including Sky Harbor Airport and Chase Field). Fans 3 The Coyote fans who come to Mullett are enthusiastic but the problem is there are not enough of them in the building. With the inordinate price tag, the tickets are often bought by visiting team fans on vacation to the Phoenix area.  A good chunk of Coyote fans most likely sell their seats on the secondary market to make some money on the high-priced tickets. On this occasion, the arena was filled with probably 85-90% New York Rangers fans many clad in their traditional red, white, and blue. The Coyotes have developed a hard-core group of followers in the Phoenix area who will be following future happenings in hopes of a new iteration of their team returning soon. Access 4 Driving to Mullett Arena is easy with the ASU Campus located just off the 202.  Fans can enter off N. Scottsdale Road or Mill Avenue which runs north and south.  Parking outside the arena is $25 at an ASU-owned lot.  Another option is ParkWhiz, which Stadium Journey used for this visit and paid only $8.48 (booked in advance), for an indoor lot at 117 East 5th Street and was a 12-minute walk. The greater Phoenix area has one of the best light rail systems in the country, covering over 28 miles and going from north of downtown out to Mesa, with a stop just a few minutes away from Mullett Arena. The cost is only $2 per ride. Return on Investment 1 Ticket prices are astronomical since the Coyotes had to make up for a lack of revenue due to the size of the building.  Standing room ranges from $60-$100 depending upon the opponent. The benches behind the goal that the opponents shoot at during the first and third periods start at about $125-$170.  Center ice seats are $225-$400 depending on the opponent and how close to the glass one sits. Food prices are about average for the NHL maybe a little bit less. Extras 1 The only extra point goes to being so close to the action which is something that is never experienced at the NHL level. The arena allows all fans to feel in touch with the excitement and speed of the game. The other benefit is the arena is new but the highlights end there. Final Thoughts April 17 could be the last time Mullett ever hosts an NHL game as The Coyotes face the Edmonton Oilers. Mullett Arena was a great experience for NHL fans who had a chance to see a game there.  Still, Mullett is worthy of a Stadium Journey for college events and anything else held there in the future. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter @VenutoGreg and Facebook.

Photos courtesy of MSG Network It was 1994 when legendary New York Rangers broadcaster Sam Rosen uttered the classic words “The waiting is over—the New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup Champions! And this one will last a lifetime”.  The Rangers had just completed a dramatic 3-2 Game 7 victory over the Vancouver Canucks in the Stanley Cup Finals to win their first NHL championship since 1940.  Fast forward 30 years and there are two constants.  Rosen, 76, is still behind the microphone and the Rangers are now trying to end another long drought of 30 years. The Rangers have arguably their best chance to win the Cup since 2015.  Rosen, who was named to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016 and the National Jewish Hall of Fame in 2008, quickly points out that eight to nine teams are probably in the mix in a balanced league. “In the East, you have Boston, Carolina, and Florida,” said Rosen. In the West, Vancouver, Dallas, Colorado, and Vegas. And of course, Edmonton is dangerous.  The Rangers are right there.  So much depends on the matchups.  The Rangers have the right mix: goaltending depth, high-end scoring, good defense, and physical players to win four rounds.” Rosen has been a constant for Rangers fans since 1984 but also honed his craft calling boxing, college and NFL football, soccer, college baseball, and Australian rules football. Rosen began going to Rangers games while in school. Photo By Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey “We had G.O. cards and could get into the Rangers games for 50 cents,” said Rosen.  We took the subway to the old Garden at 49th and 50th and raced up the stairs to try to get to the first two rows of the side balcony.” Rosen’s first desire was to be a professional baseball player.  Rosen was born in Ulm Germany but his family moved to Brooklyn, New York when he was 2 years old. He grew up playing all sports including baseball, stickball, softball, punchball, and basketball.  Rosen, a catcher, was the captain of his team at Stuyvesant High School in lower Manhattan and also a captain of his freshman team and varsity team at City College of New York. But Rosen did not earn a professional contract. “I did the next best thing in that ERA which was to broadcast games,” said Rosen. His training began in college when he did statistics for his mentor Jim Gordon (former voice of the NY Knicks/Rangers and Giants) during NY Knicks broadcasts from Madison Square Garden. In 1966, Rosen began working part-time for WINS Radio.  Rosen said Gordon hired him in 1970 for the NY Knicks radio network.  The Knicks won 18 consecutive games that season and ultimately the NBA championship. Gordon did the play-by-play and Joe Hassel was the color commentator.   Gordon eventually gave Rosen the microphone and said “They’re your stats, you do the stats at halftime and after the games”. In 1971 he moved to WNAB and then WICC-AM both in Bridgeport Connecticut. Rosen also spent two years as a newsman while serving as a weekend sportscaster for New Haven’s Channel 8 (WTNH).  He eventually joined UPI Radio Network in September 1973, where he worked until December 1980. Rosen was one of the first voices of ESPN from 1977 to 1988. He also called Jets and Giants preseason football for WPIX-TV and Cosmos soccer for WNEW-AM. Rosen joined MSG Network in 1977 as a part-time broadcaster before being hired full-time in 1982 to work as the studio host for Rangers telecasts and as a back-up radio play-by-play announcer. Rosen succeeded Gordon in 1984, joining former Boston Bruins/NY Rangers star Phil Esposito in the booth. After Esposito’s departure in 1986, Rosen was paired with former St. Louis Blues/Rangers goalie John Davidson for the next 20 years. When Davidson left in 2006 to pursue a management position with the Blues, Joe Micheletti joined Rosen in a partnership that continues today. Rosen, who has an impeccable memory, never had a chance to do a play-by-play of a Yankees game but was the studio host for the Yankees at MSG before the team formed the YES Network.  “One day Al Trautwig had a conflict and I had to go down to the clubhouse to interview Buck Showalter for the pregame show,” said Rosen.  “Buck looked at me and said ‘What do you know about baseball?’  I said ‘I know more about baseball than you do about hockey’.  He replied ‘1940!’ ” Rosen, who was named to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016 and the National Jewish Hall of Fame in 2008, interviewed for the Yankees job in 1986 but then MSG President Bob Gutkowski told him he could easily find a baseball broadcaster, but good hockey play-by-play announcers were rare.  Rosen decided to stay with the Rangers with no regrets. Rosen’s signature call “It’s a Power Play goal!” began in 1987-88 when the Rangers scored 111 goals with the man advantage. One night he blurted it out and it stuck. Rosen said while MSG is his favorite place to do a game he referenced many solid venues for broadcasters. “The Garden became an even better place after the transformation,” said Rosen.  We are closer to the ice and the sightlines are better. It’s a great workspace. Montreal is a great place with more room. The Canadian arenas are all great except Edmonton. The broadcast location is about as high as you can get.” Rosen said this year was his first time at Mullett Arena in Tempe Arizona for a Rangers-Coyotes game on March 30 and he loved the experience. “It’s so great to be so low to feel the hits and the speed of the game,” said Rosen.  “Both the broadcasters and the fans can appreciate the skill level and how fast the players can react and make plays.” Rosen was a celebrity before the game and during intermissions as he was mobbed by Rangers fans who took over the building.  He posed for numerous selfies, engaged in discussion, and signed some autographs. “Rangers fans are everywhere,” said Rosen. They’ve always had a passionate fanbase.  I see them in airports, hotels, and parking lots. When you go to Carolina (Raleigh) you might see 35-40% of fans in Rangers colors. It’s so great to see older fans passing down the tradition to their sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters.” Rosen said he still enjoys going on the road and is hopeful he can still do the job for a few more years. “I have to stay sharp to get information and deliver information because there are so many more sources for information than before,” said Rosen.  “I often stay up late when I’m home to watch West Coast games to see all the teams and learn as much as I can.  I love what I do and I want to give the viewers a sense of the excitement I get from the game.” He said Chicago is one of his favorite cities to visit because it is the most similar to New York. “The LA area is great too,” Rosen said.  We often stay on Santa Monica Beach and you can walk down the beach and the boardwalk on an off day and enjoy the weather.  Vancouver and Seattle are beautiful cities. When the sun is shining, it’s as good as it gets.  Florida is a great trip too especially in late December like this year.  Phil Esposito had a vision for Tampa and it has come together with more restaurants, bars and hotels close to the Arena and the Convention Center.” Unfortunately, Rangers fans may only see and hear Rosen in the opening round of the playoffs due to contractual obligations. The National Networks take over the rights after Round 1 and should the Rangers advance Rosen will be heard on the radio only as a fill-in for Kenny Albert. Rosen, who calls hockey an underappreciated sport, said the 1994 Stanley Cup playoffs were the highlight of his broadcasting career. “There’s nothing like seeing the team you are covering all year go all the way, especially in New York City.  We broadcasted every game of the playoffs except the games at New Jersey in 1994 due to the contract,” said Rosen. Rosen has covered other memorable events including the 1980 (Lake Placid) and 2006 Winter Olympics, 12 NHL Stanley Cup finals for NHL radio, and numerous World Series and Super Bowls. “My goal is no matter what sport I am doing I try to do it at a high level,’’ Rosen concluded.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Foley Field 1 Rutherford St Athens, GA 30602 Georgia Bulldogs website Foley Field website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 3,291 Glory, Glory to Old Georgia Established in 1886, baseball holds the distinction of being the oldest sport played at the University of Georgia, the country’s oldest public university. Initially games took place at Herty Field situated along Lumpkin Street on the western edge of the campus, but before the university joined the Southeastern Conference, Georgia baseball relocated to Samford Field, the focal point of university athletics, where they shared the space with football, who called the field home in the fall. The baseball Bulldogs remained at Samford Field for 31 years before transitioning through various fields in the Ag Hill area of campus. In 1966, however, the Diamond Dogs would finally find a permanent home at Foley Field, named in honor of Judge Frank Foley, who was a member of the 1908 Southern Conference championship team and a lifelong supporter of UGA athletics. As a founding member of the SEC, the Bulldogs have clinched seven SEC championships, including the conference’s inaugural baseball title. They also boast 15 NCAA tournament appearances, with five trips to the College World Series in Omaha and an NCAA championship title in 1990. In many southern states, college baseball might rank second only to football in popularity among men’s sports. However, despite well-rounded support for all of Georgia’s athletic programs, the Diamond Dogs do get a large amount of support from the UGA faithful. Food & Beverage   4 Concessions at Foley Field may not offer an extensive array of options, but they provide a variety of items at very reasonable prices. You will find the usual baseball game fare, such as popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, and personal-sized pizzas, but can also find combo meals featuring burgers or chicken sandwiches. Given Coca-Cola's presence in Atlanta, it's no surprise that Coke products are the soft drink provider on Georgia’s campus, although for a unique Southern treat, boiled peanuts are also on offer. Recently, BBQ sandwiches from Georgia-based Williamson Bros. have been added to the menu. The main concession stands operate on a grab-and-go basis, eliminating the need to place orders; simply grab what you want and take it to the cashier. In addition to domestic beers, the concession stands at Foley Field offer premium craft beers from Athens local brewery, Creature Comforts, along with High Noon seltzers. Atmosphere   3 Foley Field underwent significant renovations before the 2015 season, including enhancements to the front entry point, press box, upper and field level suites, and right field seating. The upgrades also gave the exterior a rather modern feel with the use of large, curved windows and a metallic-type finish. The exterior of Foley Field also nicely complements the nearby Stegman Coliseum. The stadium feels like it is part of the surrounding neighborhood, so much so that the limbs of the trees outside Foley Field creep over the upper rows of seats down the right field line, providing just a bit of shade for the uncovered seating area – this is a welcome relief since the stadium does not have much of an overhang to provide shade. When it comes to seating there are several different options; Foley Field’s seating ranges from club and suite seating to reserved and general admission seats in the grandstand. Note that the Garden Club Terrace seats in right field get fans into the stadium, but lack access to much of what the rest of the stadium has to offer – fans with tickets in these seats are sequestered in right field, unable to access the grandstand. In what seems to be becoming more of a rarity in college baseball, Foley Field boasts a fully grass playing surface, including the home plate halo, which is typically synthetic in college baseball. The natural grass is complemented by evergreen trees beyond the outfield wall. The main scoreboard at Foley Field provides fans with more than just the score; the HD-scoreboard displays a full rundown of both hitter and pitcher statistics, team lineups, and pitch speeds and exit velocities. For those seated in the right field pavilion, a basic scoreboard attached perpendicularly to the main scoreboard offers run, inning, and ball-strike-out information. Throughout the game, the UGA baseball marketing crew hosts games between innings, consistent with what one might see at typical minor league baseball games. Among the crowd favorites is a race featuring a milkshake, peach, peanut, and baseball. While the atmosphere at Foley Field is lively, given its full capacity, one might expect a more constant buzz in the air. Neighborhood   5 Foley Field is situated on the outskirts of Georgia’s campus, bordered by residential housing, an elementary school off-campus, and several other UGA athletic facilities. Across East Rutherford Street from Foley Field are Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall, housing the football command center, and Payne Indoor Athletic Facility – in the backdrop behind center field sits Dan Magill Tennis Complex, while Stegman Coliseum, home to Georgia basketball and gymnastics, can be seen beyond the left field fence. The bar and entertainment district on Broad Street in Athens is located just over a mile from Foley Field. With its high concentration of bars and restaurants downtown, along with the charm of the area, Athens is commonly recognized as one of the top college towns in America. A bit closer to Foley Field, Lumpkin Street has its own cluster of restaurants within walking distance – Cuban eatery Cali & Tito’s is worth a visit if looking for a bite to eat before heading to the game. Fans   4 Georgia sports fans are known for their unwavering dedication to the Dawgs, regardless of the sport; if it involves UGA in any capacity, Georgia fans will rally behind it. However, while this fervor is deeply rooted in their passion for football, evident from the multitude of Georgia football jerseys and t-shirts seen at baseball games, it extends to all sports. Fans are responsive to calls to make noise and engage in each pitch of a crucial at-bat, "oooh" and "ahhh" for each swing and check swing from their big bats, and voice their displeasure at close calls not favoring the Dawgs, much like any devoted fan base would. However, where Georgia fans truly shine is in their embrace of the songs and traditions synonymous with Bulldog fandom. Fans of the Georgia Bulldogs are known for their passionate embrace of traditions and cheers. Much as Alabama fans use “Roll Tide” as a greeting, the same is true for Georgia fans and their use of “Go Dawgs!”, ether the iconic chants of "Goooooo Georgia Bulldogs!" or synchronized clapping to "Glory, Glory". In addition, one of the newest traditions, occurring between the 8th and 9th innings, involves fans illuminating Foley Field with their phone flashlights during the "Krypton Fanfare" as the game moves to the final inning. Despite Foley Field being the smallest stadium in the SEC, Dawgs fans consistently fill the seats, creating a lively atmosphere; most SEC conference games are sold out or have limited seating options. Fan support for baseball also extends beyond the stadium to the houses atop the hill just beyond the right field fence, affectionately known as “Kudzu Hill”. These houses serve as gathering points for students and alumni, offering a unique game experience. Among them "The Green House" stands out, notorious for making things difficult for the visiting team's right fielder and creating a lively college atmosphere. Foley Field, though, does seem to lack the energetic atmosphere one would expect from its large student attendance. While students make up a significant part of the crowd, their impact on the game's atmosphere is somewhat subdued – the most supportive group of students, "The Spike Squad", recognizable by the spiked shoulder armor often seen at Georgia football games, adds to the college game experience by trying to rally the Dawgs to victory. Despite occasional ups-and-downs with on-field performance, Foley Field consistently draws fervent fans eager to support their Bulldogs. Access   3 Getting to Athens from the Metro Atlanta area on a weekday can be quite a test of patience; despite the relatively short 70-mile distance, the journey for a Tuesday or Friday game can take close to two-and-a-half hours for those coming from Atlanta. The most direct route is Interstate-85 to Georgia 316, which leads directly to Athens, while those coming from the north on I-85 may encounter slightly less traffic passing through Jefferson – accessing Athens from the east is most convenient via I-20 to US-441N. Parking for Foley Field is primarily located in the lot and parking deck behind the left field wall. While this surface lot is decently sized, it tends to fill up quickly. The Carlton Street parking garage is billed as free parking, but make sure to check signs for any parking restrictions. Be forewarned, however, that while parking spots behind left field might appear attractive, they are in a batting practice danger zone, as many home run balls find their way into the parking lot on the fly. Foley Field has three main entry points: the home plate gates and a gate along the third baseline provide access to the grandstand, while a right field gate leads to a small section of bleacher seating in the Garden Club Terrace. Remember that fans with tickets for outfield seats may find themselves sequestered in that area, which can be restrictive. Additionally, navigating the main concourse can be challenging, as the entry points to the field concourse only extend to the home plate side of each dugout, leading to congestion when accessing seats behind the dugouts or down the left field line. Overall, while getting to and around Foley Field is not overly difficult, it is just a bit more challenging than might be expected. Return on Investment   4 Tickets to games at Foley Field offer reasonable pricing – tickets in the right field pavilion start at $5 for non-conference games and $8 for conference games and matchups against rivals like Georgia Tech and Clemson, while seats along the left field line are priced at $20 for conference games. However, grandstand tickets are not readily available directly through UGA, unless purchased as soon as they go on sale in February. The best option for purchasing grandstand tickets would be through the secondary market, but they can be fairly pricey. Due to the seating limitations at Foley Field, tickets tend to sell out quickly, leaving sections in right field or down the left field line as the only options from the athletic department, if your visit is not planned well in advance. Extras   3 Georgia does a good job at keeping the traditions of college athletics as the focal point of the experience – while the chants, cheers, and songs are kept at the forefront during all of UGA’s athletic competitions, baseball is no exception. In doing so, this creates a baseball experience that is unique to the college game. The outfield wall recognizes the on-field success of the Bulldogs throughout the years – included are the Dawgs’ seven SEC championships, six College World Series appearances, and their 1990 National Championship. In addition, the internal concourse looks at the individuals who helped write the history of University of Georgia baseball, from the stories of James “Big Jim” Wheatley and Spurgeon Chandler to the courageous stories of Jonathan Taylor and Chance Veazey. Final Thoughts It can be difficult to compare Georgia’s baseball experience to some of the heavyweights of college baseball, simply because the gameday experience at those schools is nearly off the charts. What Georgia lacks when it comes to some of the fan amenities and spaces, however, it makes up for in the beloved traditions of the university that make it so special for alumni and others from around the state. By the start of the 2025 season, Foley Field’s grandstand will see upgrades along the left field line to include player development facilities, coaches' offices, premium seating, and a revamped entry point – these upgrades should go a long way in helping Georgia baseball catch up with the rest of the conference, which should also help in securing UGA’s spot in national college baseball relevance. Rendering courtesy of the University of Georgia Athletics

Stadium Journey endeavors to visit each college basketball arena at least once every four years to keep our reviews current for those of us who love sports travel. Our correspondents have visited 338 (93%) of the 359 D-1 college basketball arenas. Unfortunately, there are still 21 D-1 teams missing from our database that our team has yet to reach. We are actively working hard to fill in these gaps in our coverage. We are ranking the top 25 college basketball arenas according to our patented FANFARE rating scale. This scale considers a venue’s concessions, game day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access, return on investment, and more. Therefore, our rankings are much different than many others, and often our scale creates much debate. However, that is the main reason to make lists like this to create debate and discussion, right? As mentioned, our rankings are based solely on our FANFARE score. However, as you read through the list, you will see several ties. In the case of a tie between multiple venues, a council of Stadium Journey elders is consulted to break the ties. We encourage you to share your input on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. To see the entire review of any of the venues on this list, click the link above the photo. Without further ado, we are proud to present our top 25 college basketball arenas of the 2023-24 season! 1.     Hinkle Fieldhouse – Butler: 4.57 Marc Viquez - There are college basketball arenas and then there are its cathedrals. The Hinkle Fieldhouse is the latter and entering its eleventh decade the atmosphere gets only better. The Bulldog program continues to rank high on the AP Top 25 and provides its fans with winning basketball and an atmosphere that is loud, energetic, and exciting. Hinkle is what college basketball is meant to be and how wonderful is it that near the end of this current decade, the building will be celebrating its 100th anniversary? 2.     Finneran Pavilion – Villanova: 4.43 Richard Smith - Finneran Pavilion is one of the most unique-looking arenas around. It offers a great place to see some very high-quality basketball in a fun environment. In a world where some basketball arenas are getting larger and more corporate, it is good to know there is a building in Philadelphia that is a true classic hoops hall. 3.     Moody Center – Texas: 4.43 Michael Davis - Overall I want to say Moody Center is the best new basketball arena in the country, and it just might be a true statement. It is a venue that any sports fan should visit, whether it is for a University of Texas event or a non-UT event. Texas Basketball has an amazing new home, a venue that will bring in recruits, and fans, and give a home-court advantage like no other. Moody Center has already shown that the price was worth the investment for the city of Austin; now it is only time to see if the new culture of Texas Basketball will bring in championships. 4.     Thompson-Bolling Arena – Tennessee: 4.43 David Welch - About a full court’s heave from the banks of the Tennessee River, Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center has served as the home court of the Tennessee Volunteers men’s and women’s basketball programs since 1987, replacing the Stokley Athletic Center. With a capacity of 21,678, Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center is the fourth-largest college basketball arena in the country. 2007 would see major renovations that added a wall of suites and club seating to the arena, decreasing the capacity from over 24,000 to the current 21,000+. 5.     Edmund Joyce Center – Notre Dame: 4.43 Brian O'Sullivan - Even though Notre Dame is not located near a major city, heading to campus on a non-football weekend is a great way to catch a basketball or hockey game and see the campus with far fewer people. In short, attending a game at the Joyce Center is well worth the cost of admission. 6.     Qubein Center – High Point: 4.43 Lloyd Brown - The Qubein Center is a stunning addition to the High Point University campus. The arena offers fans a professional level of amenities, including comfortable seating, an above-average video board, and an impressive set of dining options. Qubein Center also serves the High Point community through concerts, appearances by notable speakers, and other events throughout the year. 7.     Dee Glen Smith Spectrum – Utah State: 4.43 Tyler Huskinson - Attending a game at the Spectrum should be on every sports fan's bucket list. Although the venue is nestled in a location very much out of the way for non-locals, it is well worth the trip. 8.     UD Arena – Dayton: 4.29 Marc Viquez - The UD Arena is quite the experience for college basketball and goes somewhat underneath the radar to most fans. However, you will never have to tell a Dayton fan, alumni, or student what an experience is like during a home game. UD Arena is as advertised, it gets LOWD. 9.     Phog Allen Fieldhouse – Kansas: 4.29 Cory Sims - Simply put, nothing matches the atmosphere of the Fieldhouse. In 2017, the arena set a new Guinness World Record for the loudest indoor stadium at more than 116 decibels, louder than a jet or chainsaw. And, that's not with piped-in crowd noise or speakers blaring music, that is pure fan jubilation 10.  Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion – Baylor: 4.29 Michael Davis - The 2023-24 basketball season for the Baylor University programs is historic and has a footprint on the future of Baylor basketball. The teams said goodbye to the Ferrell Center, the program’s home for the last 35 years, on December 22, 2023. Two weeks later, on January 2, 2024, the program opened its new home, Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion, with a win versus Cornell. 11.  Memorial Gym – Vanderbilt: 4.29 David Welch - Vanderbilt’s Memorial Gymnasium is an arena that is a must-stop for stadium enthusiasts. Beyond the rarity of the raised court and the quirks of the building itself, the whole experience of a basketball game at Vanderbilt is extremely fan-friendly and has a great college basketball atmosphere. 12.  Mizzou Arena – Missouri: 4.29 Sean MacDonald - Overall, this is an impressively designed venue that looks much younger than its 20 years and it was rocking for the game I attended, making it one of the best college basketball experiences that I have enjoyed. 13.  Gallagher-Iba Arena – Oklahoma State: 4.29 Michael Davis - Gallagher-Iba Arena is one of the best basketball facilities in the nation. Every sports fan should visit Stillwater, and visit the arena once known as “The Madison Square Garden of the Plains.” Oklahoma State University does a great job with the venue, as Gallagher-Iba Arena continues to make history while staying connected to its past. 14. The Pavilion at Ole Miss – Ole Miss: 4.29 Paul Donaldson - When you think of Ole Miss athletics, the first thoughts that come to mind are probably the Manning Family, Rebel football, Hotty Toddy, and the entertaining tailgate atmosphere at the Grove. Ole Miss Hoops, however, has the opportunity to earn a place among these popular experiences with their brand new, state-of-the-art basketball arena, The Pavilion at Ole Miss. 15.  Breslin Center – Michigan State: 4.29 Steve Ohnsmann - This is one of the holy grails for college basketball fans. If you are lucky enough to attend a Big 10 game vs one of MSU’s traditional rivals such as Michigan, Indiana, Purdue, or Wisconsin, you will have a memorable experience. 16.  CHI Health Center – Creighton: 4.29 James Hilchen - CHI Health Center Omaha has great food, and a fabulous atmosphere, and the fans are tremendous. It is rarely thought of among the elite arenas in college basketball, but the arena combined with a fabulous downtown Omaha makes any effort to attend a game here well worth the trip. 17.  Colonial Life Arena – South Carolina: 4.29 David Welch - South Carolina Gamecock basketball is an incredible college basketball experience, but one issue might be that, at a capacity of 18,000, Colonial Life Arena may be a touch too big. While the passion of the crowd does not waver, it does seem like a smaller arena might magnify that excitement even more. 18.  Huntsman Center – Utah: 4.29 Lloyd Brown - Jon Huntsman often serves as the site for regional tournaments due to its large city capacity and the large inventory of hotel rooms in downtown Salt Lake City. The Utes play a crowd-pleasing up-tempo game that has brought them success since the championship days of the late Rick Majerus, a time when the Utes were regulars in the NCAA tournaments. 19.  McCarthey Athletic Center – Gonzaga: 4.29 Eric Moreno- Alright, I hope the enthusiasm I had for my visit comes through in this review. This is easily the best college basketball venue that I’ve gotten to visit; I am confident in the assumption that if you are to somehow find yourself able to go to the Kennel to see a Zags game, you’ll come away feeling the same. Go Zags! 20.  Don Haskins Center – UTEP: 4.29 Jason Bartel - The 1966 Texas Western College men’s basketball team is arguably the most important college basketball team in the history of the sport. That Texas Western team took down Adolph Rupp’s Kentucky Wildcats to win the NCAA National Championship and became the first team to start five black players. Though they didn’t play at Don Haskins Center (opened 10 years later), the presence of that team is felt throughout the arena. 21.  McLeod Center – Northern Iowa: 4.29 Chuck Utech - A trip to Cedar Falls to see a Missouri Valley Conference basketball game can be rewarding. With the 2018 trip to the Final Four by Loyola of Chicago, “Hoosiers” images were conjured for folks dreaming of the smaller school defeating large universities. The McLeod Center houses those dreams and passionately puts them on display. 22.  Betty Engelstad Sioux Center – North Dakota: 4.29 Daryn Skjefte - The Betty Engelstad Sioux Center is truly a work of art that deserves to be recognized. College basketball is often a tradition for families and friends and this location does not disappoint. The ticket prices are hard to beat, the parking is easy and priced appropriately, and the in-game experience is second to none. I would recommend checking out The Betty Engelstad Sioux Center if you find yourself in Grand Forks. 23.  Madison Square Garden – St. Johns: 4.29 Greg Venuto- Madison Square Garden is a must-see location for sports and entertainment fans alike. It’s an action-packed venue both inside and out. It can be loud and crazy, but always an exciting and worthwhile Stadium Journey. 24.  Walsh Gymnasium – Seton Hall: 4.29 Jon Hart - The Hall plays a select few games at its on-campus facility, the historic Walsh Gymnasium, which opened in 1941. Walsh is very small, extremely loud, and just a magnificent place to watch a college basketball game. It’s big-time basketball in a very small place, a wonderful combination. Think Cameron Indoor or Allen Fieldhouse, except much smaller. 25.  Cameron Indoor Stadium – Duke:  4.14 Joseph Oakes - Even though Cameron Indoor Stadium is old, small, and cramped, the experience of attending a Duke game is like one you won’t experience anywhere else. From the sellout crowds to the Cameron Crazies to the product on the floor (which is always good) a trip to Cameron is a must for any college basketball fan.

Photos by Gail, Dan, and Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente 65 Avenida Infanteria Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985 Gigantes de Carolina website Year Opened / Año abierto:  2000 Capacity / Capacidad: 12,500 Estadio Clemente La frase tan utilizada “El béisbol es vida” sigue siendo cierta en Puerto Rico. El Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente lleva el nombre del nativo de Carolina, Roberto Clemente, quien se hizo famoso entre todos los fanáticos del béisbol como un gran jugador y, más aún, un gran humanitario. A finales de la temporada de 1972, se convirtió en el undécimo jugador de la MLB en registrar 3.000 hits. Lamentablemente, el 31 de diciembre de 1972, insistió en volar a Nicaragua para asegurarse de que los suministros en el avión fueran entregados adecuadamente a los sobrevivientes del terremoto de Nicaragua. El avión, muy cargado, despegó de San Juan, falló un motor y se estrelló frente a la costa al intentar regresar al aeropuerto. El Estadio Clemente fue construido en el año 2000 y está ubicado a 18 millas al este de San Juan y 11 millas al este de SJU (Aeropuerto de San Juan). Las áreas residenciales y comerciales rodean el parque, aunque está ubicado próximo a la autopista 3. Cuenta con un hermoso exterior con una enorme estatua de Clemente en la entrada y un amplio estacionamiento. Clemente Stadium Entrance, Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey El huracán María causó grandes daños a Puerto Rico en 2017. FEMA financió $18,400,000 para reparar y renovar el estadio. El Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente ha sido un sitio de partidos de la MLB y, si los fanáticos puertorriqueños se salen con la suya, este se convertirá en el hogar de un equipo de expansión en el futuro. Es un estadio de usos múltiples, y sede de los Gigantes de Carolina. Food & Beverage / Bebida y Alimenticia 3 El estadio ofrece comida tradicional puertorriqueña “criolla”, que incluye múltiples versiones de pollo frito con papas fritas ($12), hot dogs cubiertos con palitos de papa en un combo ($8) y palomitas de maíz ($5). Los productos de Coca-Cola y la agua embotellada cuestan $3. Miller Lite es (lamentablemente) la única cerveza que se ofrece: una por $4 y tres por $9. Las bebidas con licor comienzan en $10; los dobles cuestan $13. Durante la serie de campeonato, las colas eran largas y requerían paciencia. Los camareros deambulan por el estadio para vender bebidas alcohólicas pero no comida. En general, los precios son muy altos para muchos nativos. Atmosphere / Atmósfera 4 Primero: ¡el ruido! Los partidos de playoffs con un estadio lleno de fanáticos con silbatos, bam bams, bocinas y cencerros crean MUCHO ruido. Si te sientas en el nivel inferior, la configuración del micrófono del locutor PA debe estar configurada al MÁXIMO y, junto con la música grabada, el volumen literalmente duele los oídos. Nuestra solución fue trasladarnos al piso superior, donde la vida era más tranquila; sin embargo, allí no hay baños ni puestos de comida; un ascensor en el lado de la tercera base ayuda a evitar subir las escaleras. El estadio tiene asientos de plástico en todas partes, sin portavasos. Es tiempo de reemplazar los asientos ya que la pintura se ha desgastado de los brazos metálicos. Las vistas del atardecer en el jardín derecho son magníficas. El marcador muestra información útil sobre los jugadores durante todo el partido. Lo inusual es que el estadio está orientado al sur. Roberto Clement Stadium Sunset, Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Neighborhood / Barrio 3 El Estadio Clemente fue construido en un área abierta al este del Río Grande de Loiza, con edificios comerciales más cercanos y luego áreas residenciales a un cuarto de milla de distancia. Disfrutamos de una cena en Taco Riendo (Mexicano) al sur del estadio, junto con Sorriso Pizzeria, que ofrece pizzas creativas y un bar de servicio completo. Los hoteles/alojamiento son muy limitados alrededor del estadio; la mejor opción son los hoteles cerca del aeropuerto de San Juan. Estadio Yldefonso Sola Morales está a unos 50 minutos en auto, así que si estás en la isla, visítalo también para ver más "El béisbol es vida." Fans / Aficionados 5 ¡En Puerto Rico abundan los fanáticos apasionados y conocedores del béisbol! Durante la serie de campeonato de liga, la experiencia sube un nivel más. La tradición local es "cuanto más ruido, lo mejor." ¡Incluso las bocinas de aire que funcionan con baterías son disfrutadas y respetadas! Varios fanáticos comen en el estacionamiento antes de los partidos. Access / Acceso 3 Conducir hasta el área del estadio es bastante fácil, ya que hay dos autopistas principales justo al sur. Entrar al estacionamiento ($4) puede ser un poco arduo: dos o tres carriles. Los mapas muestran una línea de autobús con una parada aproximadamente a ¾ de milla al oeste del estadio. El aeropuerto de San Juan (11 millas) es el aeropuerto más cercano. Cuando hay mucha gente, los pasillos suelen estar abarrotados. La taquilla se encuentra en la planta baja, justo a la derecha de las escaleras. Un pequeño remolque cercano ofrece souvenirs, gorras y camisetas. Los baños son aceptables. Los Gigantes de Carolina no tienen programas a la venta. Return on Investment / Retorno de la Inversión 4 Puerto Rico tiene una larga historia de honrar a las personas mayores que pueden comprar boletos a mitad de precio, ¡incluso para la serie de campeonato! Recomendamos las entradas generales como mejor valor. Los precios de los alimentos son elevados, según los estándares Puertorriqueños. . Extras 4 Puerto Rico tiene una larga historia de honrar a las personas mayores que pueden comprar boletos a mitad de precio, ¡incluso para la serie de campeonato! Recomendamos las entradas generales como mejor valor. Los precios de los alimentos son elevados, según los estándares Puertorriqueños. Final Thoughts / Pensamientos finales El Estadio Clemente es de lejos el más atractivo de todos los estadios de béisbol puertorriqueños. Después de descubrimos que los asientos del piso superior eran mejores para mis oídos, disfrutamos de los cuatro partidos de la serie de campeonato. Los fans son geniales. ¡Definitivamente vale la pena una visita! Muchas gracias a Jim Minard por su ayuda con la traducción.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Ball Arena 1000 Chopper Circle Denver, CO 80204 Colorado Avalanche website Ball Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 18,130 Ball Arena Is The Home Of Champions Ball Arena, formerly the Pepsi Center, has seen its basketball and hockey teams win championships over the last two years.  Most recently the Denver Nuggets won their first NBA championship over the Miami Heat in June of 2023.  In June of 2022, the Colorado Avalanche won their third Stanley Cup in six games over the Tampa Bay Lightning.  Both the Avalanche, who play in the NHL's Central Division and the Nuggets are contenders once again. Ball Arena has been the home for winter professional sports in the Denver area since 1999. It serves the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, and the Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League.  The arena features 95 suites and 1,900 club seats. Empower Field at Mile High (home of the Broncos) is just a 15-minute walk across the parking lots. The building, which hosts over 250 events a year, is owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment was started in 1999 by businessman Stan Kroenke to be the parent company of his sports holdings. Kroenke also owns the Nuggets and So-Fi Stadium in Los Angeles. A facelift has been planned for the arena and also the surrounding neighborhoods. Among the changes planned are new premium seating tiers, including “enhanced general seating” and a more expensive ledge seat in the first row of the upper bowl. The goal is to turn the area into green spaces with better infrastructure and upgraded housing and tourism venues. The ambitious project could take 25 years to complete. The Avalanche began their existence as the Quebec Nordiques, one of the few teams to make the move from the WHL to the NHL. After the 1995 season, the team was sold to a new ownership group and relocated to Denver, where the team was renamed the Avalanche. The newly relocated team got off to a rousing start, as it won the Stanley Cup in its first season in its new home. The Avalanche have won three Stanley Cups, three Conference Championships, and nine Division Championships. Before the 2013 - 14 season, the octagonal scoreboard that was in use since the arena's opening was replaced with a new four-sided rectangular scoreboard. The two center faces measure 27 by 48 feet long, while the two end faces measure 21 by 25 feet wide. The Avs honor their elite players from the past with banners hanging from the ceiling. The names include Ray Bourque, Patrick Roy, Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, Adam Foote, and Milan Hejduk. Bourque, Roy, Sakic, and Forsberg are also members of the Hockey Hall of Fame. In addition, the Avalanche have banners hung for each of their division, conference, and Stanley Cup seasons. Food & Beverage 3 Food and Beverage was one of the more disappointing aspects of Ball.  The choices seemed fairly generic and there was not enough local Denver fare.  In the upper bowl, lines were often long for food and bathrooms and there did not seem to be enough carts. The width of the concourses hindered some of the opportunities for better options. Ball Arena is heavy on alcohol but lacking in food choices.  Premium cocktails are $17 for a single and $22.50 for a double. Lemonade is $6.50 and water is $5.50.  The southwest wrap is $14 and a garden salad is $12.50 and a basic dog is $6.50. Atmosphere 4 The main entrance to the stadium is off 9th Street and there are two more entrances off 11th Street (one is only for access to the Lexus Club).  The gates open only one hour before events. Ball does employ the latest technology as nothing has to be removed from pockets as fans rapidly pass through the detectors. Once inside the main entrance, there is a small lobby area with a team store to the left and escalators straight ahead which lead up to the lower seating area. The Arena was lively for the pregame warmup with the only complaint being the music was a bit too loud.  The noise level was not as onerous in the upper bowl.  The Avalanche have an organ but during the game, it is rarely utilized. The Avalanche does not employ many special effects or music to ignite the crowd.  A nice touch was the fan's use of their cellphone flashlights to illuminate the arena just before the teams hit the ice for each period. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing wrong with the neighborhood but not without a plethora of things to do nearby as the arena is surrounded by parking lots.  The Larimer Square area (on the National Register of Historic Places) is a 12-minute walk and probably the best spot to pregame with some bars and restaurants.  Union Station, with Amtrak and trains arriving from Denver Airport, is about a 15-minute walk and also offers restaurants and hotel options.  The light rail E and W lines depart from there and are just two stops away. Fans 4 The supportive crowd is enhanced by the mascot, Bernie (St. Bernard), and he is assisted by the Skyline Drumline from behind the goal the Avalanche defend twice and lead the "Let Go Avs" chants. The Avalanche sell out Ball every night.  Average attendance is 18,098 up a tick from 17,991 last season. The official Avalanche team store is Altitude Athletics with one location right at the main entrance.  The main store, Chopper Circle on the South side, is open Monday-Saturday 12-5 pm. There are five locations in total inside the building. Access 4 Parking is not an issue with 10 lots surrounding the stadium.  Parking prices range from $25-$35. Access by car is doable. From the North - Take I-25 South, exit Speer Boulevard; proceed South and turn right on Chopper Circle From the South - Take I-25 North, exit Auraria Parkway, Ball Arena will be on the left-hand side of Auraria Parkway. The Ball Arena (Elitch Gardens stop) is served by the E & W light rail lines. The MallRide provides a free shuttle service on the 16th Street Mall. The Mall extends approximately two miles and accesses both northbound and southbound light rail service at Union Station and the 16th Street Mall. Due to the ongoing reconstruction of the 16th Street Mall, MallRide vehicles are currently operating on 15th and 17th Streets. Denver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country. Ball Arena has bike racks immediately outside of the arena. Fans wishing to rent a bike will find a B-Station located a block south of the arena. Rideshare drop-off and pick-up are available along Auraria Parkway between 9th and 11th Street only. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices run the gamut from $39 for the last few rows in the upper bowl behind the goals to $209 at the center ice lower bowl before fees for a weeknight game. In 2022, the Avalanche ($390.74) was on the better end of the Fan Cost Index as only 10 teams were less expensive. Fan Cost Index comprises the price based on four average-price tickets, two small draft beers, four small soft drinks, four regular-size hot dogs, parking, two game programs, and two least-expensive, adult-size adjustable caps. In the upper bowl, one negative is the view of center ice on both sides from the sections between the blue lines is obstructed by a glass partition and railing that hinders rows 6 and 7. Extras 3 There are some interesting pieces of art inside the Ball Arena.  There are several statues and 3-D visuals on the west concourse. The Grand Atrium is home to a large aerial sculpture depicting hockey and basketball players. The team also has some of the most impressive graphic projections on the ice during the pregame introductions. The rafters are an impressive sight with 3 Stanley Cup Banners, 3 for Conference Championships, 3 for earning the President’s Trophy, and 12 for Division Championships. A Kids Zone behind section 375 offers youngsters the opportunity to test their skills on one of many hockey and basketball simulators. Final Thoughts Ball Arena is a great place to visit while in Denver to take in a hockey game.  The fans are enthusiastic and the team is usually at the top of the standings.  With the proper upgrades, the building can be more fan-friendly but the trade-off will be an increase in prices. ---- Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter @VenutoGreg and Facebook.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Arthur W. Perdue Stadium 6400 Hobbs Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804 Delmarva Shorebirds website Arthur W. Perdue Stadium website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 5,200 Eastern Shore Baseball At Its Finest Delmarva may not be a term that most people recognize. But essentially it designates the Eastern Shore of Maryland, along with the neighboring areas of Delaware and Virginia. This peninsula is known as the DelMarVa Peninsula. The Shorebirds stadium is right outside of Salisbury, MD, the county seat of Wicomico County and the largest city in Maryland’s Eastern Shore region. The stadium is named for the founder of Perdue Farms, Arthur Perdue. Perdue is headquartered in Salisbury. Arthur’s son Frank Perdue, and now his grandson Jim Perdue are known far and wide as the national spokespersons for the brand. The stadium opened in 1996 as a Single-A affiliate of the Montreal Expos. Eventually, the Shorebirds became the Single-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, playing in the South Atlantic League. The team also draws from the many visitors to the region during the summer months as nearby Ocean City swells to between 320,000 and 345,000 visitors, and up to 8 million vacationers annually. Food & Beverage 4 The food prices are very similar to most minor league baseball stadiums. They are very fair and offer many choices. Most entrees are $4 and up and won’t break your wallet. Be on the lookout for the numerous Family Pack options for both hot dogs and chicken tenders. Another great choice is the Jumbo Crab Pretzel. Sodas are $4 and $5.75, depending upon the size. You are on the “Eastern Shore” so choosing chicken and/or crab is always a good idea. Atmosphere 4 Delmarva prides itself on offering a family atmosphere and a place where the entire family can enjoy baseball. The true fan can enjoy the quality play, while the kids can enjoy the carousel, bounce houses, and face painting offered. In-game promotions are also offered to keep the atmosphere fresh and fun. The team tries to keep it happening in between innings to not distract from the game. There are orange bleachers for general admission sections and green seats for assigned seating. The cheap seats get great views, as well as the fans paying for the more expensive ones. The stadium will seem very similar to Harry Grove Stadium in Frederick and Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, both also Orioles team affiliates. Neighborhood 3 Perdue Stadium is not located in the heart of the city but at the busy junction of US Highway 50 and Route 13. There is nothing in walking distance to the stadium so you will have to drive to enjoy pre and post-game festivities. A good local choice is the Evolution Brewing Company and their quite nice tasting room. They also offer a full restaurant option next door to that. Another option is the Market Street Inn in downtown Salisbury. I would also recommend stopping over to Ocean City and trying the dizzying array of food options located in this tourist town. OC Wasabi is a personal favorite that offers an amazing sushi roll that contains fried soft-shell crab. Or try the numerous crab options in the area. Fans 4 The fans are pretty traditional minor league fans for this area. Some are very knowledgeable about the game, while others are there as part of a family or a group and may be less interested in the actual game. This is a Baltimore Orioles fan base, so expect to hear the loud “Ohhhhhhh” chant during the appropriate place in the National Anthem. Locals feel that the song is to do with as they please while showing support to the home team. It is good-natured, so who could disagree? Access 3 Since the stadium is located at the convergence of US Highway 50 and Route 13, traffic can usually be pretty easy to handle. But be aware that on summer weekends there is a large amount of traffic heading east towards Ocean City, as well as traffic heading west at the end of said weekends. Plan carefully as traffic has been known to back up to Washington, DC, and Baltimore, many hours away. It really can be that bad. There is plenty of parking, but the team does charge to park. I don’t see why they need to do this, but the price is less than $5. Return on Investment 4 Prices are not the cheapest minor league games around but still offer decent value. The best values are the general admission tickets that cost $8. These seats are close to the action, and give you flexibility to move around and/or get more food. Other options run from $11 to $13, which is pretty good value. Be on the lookout for ticket promotions and other events that can make your game experience better. The team is active in the community, and there are many ways to attend the game. Extras 4 The Eastern Shore Baseball Hall Of Fame is also located at the stadium. Make sure to stop in and see the numerous players and teams that have played on the DelMarVa Peninsula. It is worth a couple of points right there. Kids will love the fully stocked kids' area with a carousel that has a great view of the field. The team runs some great promotions, so check the calendar to see what is happening when you attend a game. Final Thoughts Arthur W. Perdue Stadium is a great stadium and the Delmarva Shorebirds go out of their way to make the stadium a place where both casual and hardcore baseball fans can be entertained and enjoy a quality game experience.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Scotiabank Arena 40 Bay St Toronto, ON M5J 2X2 Toronto Raptors website Scotiabank Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 19,800 Time for New North The recent news that Vince Carter was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is big for the city of Toronto and the Toronto Raptors.  The location of the very first NBA game with the Toronto Huskies and New York Knicks is finally getting a member of the Hall of Fame. Although Vince Carter played for seven other teams and was technically not drafted by the Raptors, his formative years in the NBA were wearing purple.  Carter’s arrival in Toronto coincided with the moving of the team from the gargantuan SkyDome to the sparkling new Air Canada Centre.  Many Raptor fans credit Carter for helping build basketball in Toronto as well as the rest of the country. In 1999 the Raptors, along with the Toronto Maple Leafs, also owned by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, moved to their current home, now known as Scotiabank Arena.  The building was once the Canada Post Delivery Building and the arena has been renovated several times.  Located in the heart of Toronto, Scotiabank Arena provides the Raptors with a premier venue to play in and has become one of the best experiences in the NBA. Food & Beverage 5 Scotiabank Arena provides a premium array of concessions that will allow fans to enjoy just about anything they can imagine at the arena.  The Scotiabank Arena website does a pretty good job of outlining the culinary options allowing fans the opportunity to plan.  Also very handy on the website is the Specialty Food Guide which outlines vegan, kosher, halal, and gluten-free options. Some of the stands that fans may wish to consider include Hot Stove Carve for prime rib sandwiches; Mac & Cheese for a variety of macaroni and cheese concoctions; Noodle & Bao for Asian noodles and sandwiches; Poutinerie for a variety of different poutine options; St. Patties for burgers; Panini Sandwich Shop for a variety of deli sandwiches; Wicked Carib for the Caribbean fare; Edo for sushi; Hogtown for a huge selection of unique hot dogs; and Canadian favourite brands Tim Hortons and Pizza Pizza. All of the expected arena items like popcorn and pretzels are also available.  The new “grab and go” areas that are popping up in stadiums and arenas can also be found in Scotiabank Arena.  Designed to get fans in and out quickly, the gated areas offer a quick selection and fast exit.  Coca-Cola products are the soft drink selections.  There are several locations for fans to get a huge variety of alcoholic beverages.  The Molson Canadian Brewhouse on the 100 level is one of the most popular bar areas. The Coors Light Chill Zone on the second level, above the pregame location, is another great spot to hang out pre-game.  The beer selection is as good at Scotiabank Arena as anywhere else in the NBA and full bar service is available in many areas also.  There is not much that a fan could want and not find at Scotiabank Arena. Atmosphere 5 Scotiabank Arena was originally the Toronto Postal Delivery Building.  The original facade is found at the “front” on Bay Street, however, most patrons will enter from either the north, where the arena is joined to Union Station at the Galleria, or the west where Maple Leaf Square can be found.  The “Search Light Star Light Spot Light” structure is an iconic piece of art that was also part of the original Air Canada Centre logo and is one of the exterior highlights. A massive video board is found on the building exterior and is a major piece of “Jurassic Park,” the once innovative gathering area that is electric for Raptor playoff games.  Legends Row, a collection of bronze statues of Toronto Maple Leaf greats, is also found in Maple Leaf Square. When fans enter the Scotiabank Arena, they are greeted with a decent-sized concourse.  If there is a “main” entrance, it would be through the Galleria on the north side and empties into the largest interior gathering area.  The area where the pregame shows for television are shot is just to the right of the Galleria entrance.  The walls of the concourse are plastered with either ads or framed photos of Raptors, Maple Leafs, or concert moments. The seating bowl is two-tiered and although fans are bombarded with Maple Leafs nostalgia, there are a couple of Toronto Raptors nods.  The court is east-west oriented and the spot to get that perfect centre court logo picture is from the south.  A huge, yet not overwhelming, state-of-the-art video board hangs above centre court.  Raptors banners hang in the centre of the arena with the Inaugural Season banner to the east and Atlantic Division Champions, 2019 Conference Champions, and 2019 World Champions banners to the west. The gameday production at a Toronto Raptors game begins as soon as the gates open.  Members of the promo team can be found parading around the lower concourse and interacting with fans.  Leading cheers, dancing with a circa 90’s boombox, and allowing fans to shoot a novelty basketball in a shoulder-mounted basket, the team’s goal is clearly to raise the energy and excitement of the fans entering the building. Digital interactivity is one of the biggest changes in the last decade with fans having the opportunity to participate in live polls displayed on the video board, order food, and purchase 50/50 tickets.  The video board is used to the max with ads, pregame analysis, and interviews before the tip-off even happens.  That push for energy continues throughout the game where it is non-stop action, even when the game pauses. The Northside Crew, one of the first diverse dance groups in the NBA, performs during the pregame and throughout the game.  The Raptor, Toronto’s mascot, is among the most underrated in the league and his antics are legendary locally.  The Raptors’ presence is felt throughout the game and he is very visible.  It is probably not possible for the Toronto Raptors to pack anything else into the time from pregame to the final buzzer. Neighbourhood 5 Scotiabank Arena is located in the South Core neighbourhood of Downtown Toronto, immediately adjacent to Harbourfront.  It is hard to argue that there is an arena that is better located in the entire NBA.  There are a plethora of pre and post-game options for food and drink, whether on Front Street or on the streets that cross it. Some of the options include The Loose Moose, Kelly’s Landing, Real Sports, e11even, Taverna Mercatto, Hoops, Miller Tavern, The Fox, and NBA Courtside, to name a few.   There are also several fast food and chain restaurants in the area.  The hot dog carts, which are scattered near the arena, are among the best anywhere and should also be considered for a quick bite before or after the game. For other sporting options in the city, fans are almost overloaded with options.  Scotiabank Arena is also home to the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL.  Heading west, fans will come to the Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays of MLB.  Further west is BMO Field, home of Toronto FC of MLS and the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL.  BMO is also a host of the next World Cup.  Heading north of Scotiabank Arena will bring fans to the University District. The Toronto Metro Bold play hockey and basketball in the former Maple Leaf Gardens, as do Toronto’s PWHL team.  The University of Toronto campus is nearby and the Varsity Blues field a full complement of teams including football, hockey, and basketball.  At the northern edge of the city is York University, home of the Lions football, hockey, and basketball teams. Also on the York Campus are the National Bank Open Tennis Tournament and York United FC and Toronto FC II soccer teams.  That doesn’t even include Horse Racing or Auto Racing. Of course, there are also a ton of tourist options in the city.  Fans should consider hanging out at Harbourfront, the CN Tower, or Ripley’s Aquarium.  A must when in Toronto is a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Fans 5 The days of the championship-caliber team in Toronto are over for now. With that, Raptors fans have proven to be resilient, remaining among the strongest supporters in the NBA. The drop in fan support from the 2022-2023 season is less than 100 fans per game. The Raptors have averaged over 19,600 fans per game in the 2023-2024 season, good for 7th in the competitive NBA. Raptor fans tend to be more rowdy and loud than Maple Leaf fans, although they are not over the top.  The Raptors also tend to have a more diverse fanbase.  In the playoffs, inside and outside Scotiabank Arena is truly special and Jurassic Park is a sight to be seen. Access 4 Getting to the Scotiabank Arena by car will force fans to traverse the Toronto traffic, which can be a real challenge.  The Lakeshore is quite far from Highway 401 in the north, so using Lakeshore Blvd or the Gardiner Expressway to travel east or west along the lake will be required.  There are plenty of parking options around which can be found for $20 or more. The real travesty is that the City of Toronto has not taken any lessons from other cities when events are put on.  Upon exiting Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Police are not present aiding in the movement of traffic, leaving drivers on their own to get out of downtown.  On the plus side, public transit downtown is very good. Union Station is attached to the Scotiabank Arena.  TTC subways and GO Transit trains along with Via Rail trains can be found here.  Fans should check the TTC or GO Transit websites for maps, fares, and schedules. Getting around the Scotiabank Arena is not difficult, however, fans need to keep in mind that there is rarely less than a full house in the arena and intermissions will be congested.  Washroom facilities are more than adequate but will have lineups during intermissions as well. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto Raptors and Scotiabank Arena websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the arena. Return on Investment 3 As with most NBA experiences, taking in a game is not a cheap experience.  Tickets for the Raptors are available starting between $50 and $75 on the secondary market.  Demand remains high for tickets, although finding them may not be too hard, the price may not be what fans are looking for.  It will be interesting to see if ticket prices on the secondary market drop as the Raptors have jumped into rebuild mode with both feet. Parking will run at least $20 and concessions are on the expensive side.  According to media reports, the Raptors had the 12th most expensive tickets and were 11th in Fan Cost Index in the NBA in 2022.  Fans will have a great time at a Raptors game and it is wall-to-wall entertainment and energy, however, they should be prepared to pay for it! Extras 4 An extra mark for Toronto’s claim to the very first NBA game, which was played at Maple Leaf Gardens with the Toronto Huskies and New York Knicks in 1946. An extra mark for Toronto’s celebrity factor where Nav Bhatia has become a local celebrity sitting courtside for every game since day one.  Fans may also get a glimpse of Drake, who often sits near the Raptors bench. An extra mark for Herbie Kuhn, the PA announcer, who has been with the Raptors since the SkyDome days and brings energy and excitement to the experience. An extra mark for the Raptors embracing their role as Canada’s team. Final Thoughts Taking in a Toronto Raptors game is an event that fans will love.  The entertainment is top notch and the Scotiabank Arena is an excellent venue with a terrific location in one of the most dynamic, tourist-friendly cities in the world.  Basketball fans should not shy on the Raptors because of their relative youth as a franchise.  They are one of the best experiences around. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Fair Grounds Race Course 1751 Gentilly Blvd New Orleans, LA 70119 Fair Grounds Race Course website Year Opened: 1837 Capacity: 10,000 Road to Kentucky Derby runs through Louisiana Every year since 1894, with a few breaks in between, the road to the Kentucky Derby has run through New Orleans via the annual Louisiana Derby. Run every year in late March, the Grade II sanctioned race with a purse of $1,000,000 is one of the last major prep races ran before the Kentucky Derby. The self-proclaimed 'Road to the Kentucky Derby' is a series of prep races that begin every year in September, using a points-based system scheduled over 36 races. The series has 14 major races which are part of the Championship Series, run from February through April every year. The horses must gain points to qualify, with the Championship Series races worth more points and having bigger purses – there are important stakes on the line during the Louisiana Derby, as the race garners 100 points and automatically qualifies the horse for the Kentucky Derby, the annual Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs the first Saturday in May. The Louisiana Derby is one of the more prestigious races that is not part of horse racing's Triple Crown, and is also one of the oldest stake races, with the 2024 running marking the 110th anniversary of the Louisiana Derby. This annual race takes place at historic Fair Grounds Race Course, where racing began on the site in 1837, making it the second-oldest site for horse racing in the country. Like the city itself, historic Fair Grounds Race Course has had its share of historic moments, like in 1924 when Black Gold won the Louisiana Derby six weeks before also winning the Kentucky Derby, or in 1988 when the son of Secretariat, Risen Star, took home the Louisiana Derby trophy en route to winning that years’ Belmont and Preakness stakes. Horse racing was held here during the Civil War, and after the war welcomed such names as General Custer, Ulysses S. Grant, and Jesse James, who all owned horses or visited the track. The grounds also hosted boxing matches, and the track hosted a car race here in the 1920s. But despite the track's good days, there have also been some dark days, such as on Dec 18, 1993, when a 7-alarm fire completely destroyed the grandstand, or in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina caused extensive damage to the facility, shutting down racing for over a year. However, after over 150 years, Fair Grounds Race Course still stands strong today, and is nicknamed "Horse Racing's Winter Capital" due to the number of races run here from November to March. Food & Beverage   4 Part of what makes Louisiana Derby day so special is the expansive food and beverage options – the indoor grandstand on the second level has several stands, while the street level has the majority of the options here. Twin Spires Casino is also located on the property, and houses two restaurants as well as several bars; Gentilly Grill and P.J.'s Coffeehouse are the two restaurants located in the casino, near the main entrance to the track. The paddocks are the first area you come to when you enter the facility – this is the showcase area for horses before they race, and the area features several food options. Star Guitar Bar is located here, and is named after Louisiana's winningest thoroughbred, Star Guitar; the outdoor bar features several of his saddles, as well as a horse-themed custom guitar on the wall. Another popular stand near the main entrance to the paddocks is Tailgate Tigers, a non-profit competitive cooking team from LSU that raises funds for childhood cancer illnesses. Louisiana Derby day is their biggest fundraiser of the year, raising over $20,000 annually on this day alone – you'll often find the Tailgate Tigers staff smoking a pig or alligator while a big ol' pot of gumbo cooks nearby. Upstairs you'll find several more concession stands, such as Italian Stallion offering different kinds of Italian sausage, as well as deep dish pizzas. Another popular stand is Gourmet Shack, offering Creole menu items such as Cajun chicken alfredo, crawfish spinach dip, and crab de la creme. Oaks Grill is also up here offering a full menu of different burgers, with views overlooking the paddocks, but if you want to keep things simple and just order nachos, popcorn, or a hot dog there are five basic concession stands located on the property, while for drinks, Pepsi is the official provider at Fair Grounds Race Course. Another part that makes the Louisiana Derby so special is the broad selection of alcohol on site – you can find a multitude of different bars set up offering everything from domestic to premium beer. There are also two daiquiri stands set up on the property, as well as a craft beer stand selling beers from local Port Orleans Brewery. But to get the full Louisiana Derby experience you have to try a mint julep; outside on the concourse is High Horse Bar, offering the Derby tradition mint julep. High Horse also serves bloody Mary's and their famous Southern Oaks drink, which is vodka mixed with lemon and cranberry juice. There are also several food trucks lined up along the final stretch on the outdoor concourse, including Daddy Hot Bird for New Orleans style chicken, Tasty Treat serving soft serve ice cream, and Knee Deep Seafood Company offering their favorite dishes of alligator sausage and Cajun hibachi. It's tempting to get full on food and drinks here; just make sure you save some room for dinner so you can hit up the French Quarter for some of New Orleans' finer restaurants. Atmosphere   5 Even if you know nothing about horse racing, all the prestige and grandeur you would expect at the Kentucky Derby is on display in New Orleans, along with many of the traditions of the Run for the Roses. Mint Juleps, big ornate hats worn by women, a garland of roses awarded to the winner; it's all on display here. The only thing missing is the playing of "My Old Kentucky Home" before the race, but you may hear an old school New Orleans brass band playing instead. You have three main entrances into Fair Grounds Race Course – you can enter through the casino on the grounds, through the main entrance near the paddocks, or you can enter at street level near the first turn and be right up on the action. The paddocks are where you can get one last look at the horses before placing a bet; it can get kind of cramped in the paddocks, however, as it is also the main gathering area where the horses are presented for display, including a three-story overlook for viewing. I recommend entering at the paddocks, as you can find a ticket office there as well as a Derby store there, where you can find plenty of memorabilia. You are also free to walk down the jockey quarters hallway to view plaques and photos on the wall showing the history of the track; the simulcast booth is also set up in the paddocks, with pregame coverage and expert picks for the day's races. Fair Grounds Race Course features an enormous four-story grandstand that extends down the final stretch into the first turn. The track itself is a mile long oval facing east and west with a dirt and turf track, approximately 7 furlongs; you are not allowed on the infield during race days. The Louisiana Derby is one of 12 races run on Derby day, run at 1 and 3/16th miles. There is a small grandstand outdoors at street level which features metal bleachers, as well as a concourse separating the track from the grandstand – the concourse can get quite crammed with patrons wanting to be right up on the action as the horses approach the final stretch. The walkway at the far west end of the track features all the pop-up bars and food trucks, as well as a tent hosting a private party sponsored by the New Orleans Pelicans. The first floor of the indoor grandstand and the outside concourse is general admission, while the third and fourth floors of the grandstand are the club access points. Neighborhood   4 Fair Grounds Race Course is located about 3 miles north of the French Quarter in the Fairgrounds neighborhood of the mid-city area. This area is mostly residential, and is not where most of the tourists would venture to if coming to visit, so more than likely you'll come to the track for the day and stay overnight elsewhere in the city, as the area around the track isn't exactly the safest after dark. However, there are a few local spots worth checking out if in town on Derby day – the great thing about Fair Grounds Race Course is you can come and go all day, so you are free to walk around the neighborhoods and then come back and watch the races. Liuzza's at the Track is about two blocks south of the course. Famous for its BBQ shrimp po’ boys, and voted the best gumbo in New Orleans, it is almost impossible to get a table at Liuzza's during the Louisiana Derby, as it is always packed. However, another popular local spot is Parkway Tavern about a mile south of the track – this local dive bar has been open for over 100 years, and is famous for its “Good Food, Poor Boys” sign above the main entrance. Other popular spots near the course include the French bistro Cafe Degas, which makes a great brunch spot, while across the street to the east on Gentilly Blvd is Seahorse Salon, which makes for a popular spot to grab a cold beer in between races. Across the street to the south is Santa Fe Restaurant, which makes a great spot to grab a margarita, and is a popular post-race hangout for the jockeys and horse owners. Another popular place to visit nearby is City Park; the 20th most visited public park in the U.S. is located a stone's throw away from Fair Grounds Race Course, over the scenic Bayou St. John. City Park makes for a great stroll and includes countless museums and walking trails. Also make sure to visit Cafe du Monde in City Park, which is always less packed than the more famous French Quarter location. And of course, the French Quarter is where you can find plenty of additional attractions that New Orleans is known for. The French Quarter also has plenty of hotels to choose from including historic Hotel Monteleone, built in 1886, which remains the official host hotel of the Louisiana Derby. This hotel is famous for its rotating carousel bar, which I recommend checking out if in the city. Fans   5 Derby Day at Fair Grounds Race Course attracts a wide range of different patrons – the grandstands have seating for about 10,000 people, and you'll find another 5,000 or so patrons just walking the outdoor concourse or standing in the paddocks. You'll also find the regulars who come to the track almost every weekend to bet on horses, so they usually know their stuff. The facility has over 200 available kiosks for you to place bets, but the lines back up substantially the closer to post time of the Louisiana Derby itself, around 5:30 pm. The track has electronic kiosks, or you can place your bet with a bookie who will help explain the process if you are not familiar with wagering on horse races. Fair Grounds Race Course runs 12 races on Derby Day, with races every hour beginning at noon. A lot of the horses running in the earlier races are local horses, so the regulars may be familiar with some of them. Former NFL quarterback Jake Delhomme owns some of the horses racing earlier in the day, so Saints fans at the track may want to watch his horses. The Tom Benson Stakes, named after the late Saints owner, is also a popular race run earlier in the afternoon, and his wife Gayle is usually on hand to deliver the trophy to the winning jockey. You'll also get a lot of the preppy college aged folks dressed in different suits – picture a college fraternity party and that's the kind of preppy vibe you can get here. I did see a few kids, but for the most part this is not an event that caters to families. As mentioned earlier the theme at the Louisiana Derby is to dress nice and go over the top, and you'll find a lot of that here with the fancy hats and dresses worn by the ladies, while a lot of the men are decked out in flashy and outlandish suits with bow ties and fedoras. Cigar smoking is about as common here as people drinking, and they even have cigars for sale at the front desk at the main entrance, should you forget to bring yours. But the great thing about attending the Louisiana Derby is that even if you know nothing about horse racing, you are bound to have a good time. Track announcer John G. Dooley does an excellent job giving the play-by-play of the action on the track; he has been the track announcer here for 20 years. When the horses go onto the backstretch after turn 2 you can no longer can see the action from the grandstands, so it is up to you to visualize the horses based on John Dooley providing the play-by-play, until the horses get to the final stretch. When the horses come back into view on that final stretch, however, it can get quite exciting, with Dooley providing his thrilling play-by-play over the PA system – you’ll get to see why this is called the fastest 3 minutes in sports. Access   3 Getting to Fair Grounds Race Course shouldn't be bad depending on which direction you are coming from; if coming from out of town the track is conveniently located near the I-10 and I-610 interchange, the two main interstates into town. From I-610 take Exit 2C onto Paris Ave, then take the first right onto Gentilly Blvd, and you can't miss the facility about a mile south after exiting the interstate. If you are coming from the French Quarter or the Central Business District, it might be a little more difficult if you are not familiar with the rhythm of the city. New Orleans doesn't exactly have the nicest roads, and you'll be navigating side roads that can go from pleasant to scary really quick, so the best way to get here from the Quarter is by Uber or Lyft. There is gated and secured parking for over 10,000 cars on property on the south and east sides of the track. On a regular race day this shouldn't be a problem, but on Derby Day the parking lot fills up quick, so I recommend getting here as early as possible – the gates open at 11 am and the first post time is at noon.  Unfortunately, there are no public lots around the grounds, so if you don't get here early your only option is parking on the street. You may get lucky and find some street parking on Ponce De Leon Street, a couple of blocks south of Fair Grounds Race Course, and you may also find people who live on the streets offering paid parking in their yards. Once inside the venue, the earlier you arrive the better chance you'll have of getting a good view right up at the finish line. The Louisiana Derby is run every year around 5:30 pm, so around 3 or 4 it starts to get pretty crammed, with people flooding the paddocks and attendees walking shoulder to shoulder on the outdoor walkway. The betting lines and kiosks also back up around late afternoon as well – the earlier races are a little more laid back, however, making a great time to get a bookie to help you place a wager on a horse if you are unfamiliar with the process. Return on Investment   4 Tickets start at $10 for general admission, which includes access to the outdoor concourse and indoor grandstand on the second level, while $25 gets you access to the club level on the third and fourth floors of the covered grandstand. The club levels feature more betting areas, slot machines, and several sit-down dining options. You cannot find a better return on investment than attending the Louisiana Derby, as you are guaranteed to see at least several horses that will race in the Kentucky Derby. I also recommend just coming for the experience of attending a major horse race – though it's the fastest three minutes in sports, the events and festivities, combined with the spirit and atmosphere of New Orleans, make this an all-day affair. Extras   4 One extra for all the historical figures who visited this track, which is almost as old as the city itself. From General Custer, who owned a stable of horses here shortly before he was killed at the Battle of Little Bighorn, to Ulysses S. Grant, who was a frequent attendee during the spring races of 1880, as well as the outlaw Jesse James, a frequent bettor at the track when his brother Frank was Commissioner of Gambling here. The Track has changed substantially over the last 150 years, but if you want to see a part of the track that hasn’t changed, check out the two twin spires, which were built in 1860, flanking the Gentilly Street entrance. This entrance is just north of the main entrance, and though it is currently closed, it is only about a five-minute walk around the track to get to the gate. Another extra for the three horses buried in the infield at Fair Grounds Race Course – perhaps the most famous horse to race here was Black Gold, who won the 1924 Louisiana Derby en route to winning the 50th running of the Kentucky Derby a couple of weeks later. Black Gold collapsed on this track in 1928, and was euthanized and buried here; Black Gold had a fitting name for a city synonymous with the Saints, and the horse also had a movie based on his life, as well as a book. The horse buried next to Black Gold is Pan Zareta; nicknamed Queen of the Turf, she won 76 races throughout her career, but contracted pneumonia and died in her stall on Christmas Day 1918. The Pan Zareta Stakes is run at Fair Grounds Race Course every year on Thanksgiving weekend, and the winner of the Stakes places a wreath on Pan Zareta’s grave. The third horse buried here is the local horse Tenacious, a popular fixture at the track in the 1960s. Another extra for the events the facility hosts throughout the year – as the sports’ Winter Capital you can expect to find horse racing at the track every weekend here, starting with the Thanksgiving Day Classic up until the Louisiana Derby. The Gun Runner Stakes are held Christmas weekend, the Lecomte Stakes in January, and the Risen Star Stakes in February, all of which are prep races with qualifying points towards the Kentucky Derby. Fair Grounds Race Course also holds the Exotic Animal Races twice a year, where you can bet on camel, zebra, and ostrich races; the Weiner dog races are also a hot ticket each year as well. And of course, an extra for Fair Grounds Race Course’s biggest event every year, and it has nothing to do with horse racing. Every year since 1970, as soon as racing season ends, the grounds are transformed into the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, better known as JazzFest, which takes place for two weekends every year at the end of April. One of the most famous music festivals in the world, the event attracts over 450,000 attendees and has attracted some of the biggest name in music – The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Christ Stapleton, and Widespread Panic are just some of the names playing at this year’s festival.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Scotiabank Arena 40 Bay St Toronto, ON M5J 2X2 Canada Toronto Maple Leafs website Scotiabank Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 18,800 Leafs Forever Founded in 1917 as the Toronto Arenas, the Toronto Maple Leafs have as rich a history as any team in the National Hockey League. The proud holders of eleven Stanley Cup Championships, nine after they rebranded as the Maple Leafs in 1927, fans of the Maple Leafs are filled with angst and dread as they eagerly await the next trip to the finals. It would be the first since 1967, the final year of the “Original Six.” Suffering through some of the worst ownership groups in sports history, see Harold Ballard, the Leafs are currently on solid ownership ground under the Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment banner. MLSE is a conglomerate controlled by the odd partnering of Rogers Communications, Bell Media and Larry Tannenbaum. They also have the coveted superstar with Hart Trophy winner Auston Matthews leading the charge. Finally, the Leafs have one of the premier venues in the NHL, which although opened in 1999, has received several renovations to keep it at the forefront and state-of-the-art. The venerable home for the Leafs for decades was the “Cashbox on Carlton,” Maple Leaf Gardens. In 1999, the Leafs moved closer to the lake, directly west of the CN Tower to the former Toronto Canada Post Delivery Building, which is currently known as Scotiabank Arena. It is difficult to argue that there is a better-located facility in the NHL, and the building is constantly changing for the betterment of the fan experience. All that remains is for the Leafs to get that elusive Stanley Cup back under the blue and white banner. Food & Beverage 5 Concessions at Scotiabank Arena are among the best in the NHL, and a focal point of the operators. The menus are consistently examined and upgraded and the incorporation of new technology is also a priority. Concession providers are a mix of local favourites and interior exclusives. National brands like Tim Hortons and Pizza Pizza have a strong presence. That is balanced with internal options like St. Patties and Hogtown Gourmet Hot Dogs. Fans can find just about any sort of cuisine in Scotiabank Arena that they desire. St. Patties features a variety of burgers; Mac and Cheese Boutique features gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese inventions; Noodle and Bao has several roti options; Edo Sushi has a variety of sushi; Porchetta & Co. and Panini each have a variety of sandwich options; and Hogtown Gourmet Hot Dogs has several interesting hot dog concoctions. Of course, arena staples like popcorn and nachos are found in several concession stands as well. The integration of technology is found in the Grains & Greens area. A long, narrow, convenience store setup has patrons tap their credit card to go in. They pick up their items and then exit, charges automatically taken. The selection of beer and alcoholic beverages in Scotiabank Arena will rival any of its contemporaries. Typical national brands are joined by favourites like Creemore Springs, Rickards Red and Sol, to cover the tip of the iceberg. Seltzers, Smirnoff Vodka, wine and Crown Royal are also available at a variety of bars and stands. The Molson Canadian Brewhouse on the 100 level has a huge bar and is a perfect meeting place once inside the Scotiabank Arena. There are also other bars throughout the arena on multiple levels. Coca-Cola products are the soft drinks of choice and Tim Hortons provides hot beverages. Scotiabank Arena takes it to the next level with possibly the best, most up-to-date website there is, providing a ton of concession information for patrons to take in before heading to the arena. Atmosphere 5 Scotiabank Arena provides one of the best atmospheres in the NHL. Located on Bay Street, the Scotiabank Arena really should be approached from the west, which is Maple Leaf Square. The main entrance from the square features a massive video board above the entrances. Maple Leaf Square is the location where fans of the Leafs and Raptors congregate to watch the game outside during the playoffs. Highlights of the Scotiabank Arena exterior are the “Search Light Star Light Spot Light'' structure, which is part of the original Air Canada Centre logo, and Maple Leafs’ Legends Row. The most honoured Maple Leaf players are immortalized in a series of bronze statues that not only cross eras but seemingly interact with each other. Frank Mahovlich, Wendel Clark, Dave Keon, George Armstrong, Johnny Bower, Red Kelly, Charlie Conacher, Teeder Kennedy, Tim Horton, Turk Broda, Syl Apps, Mats Sundin, Borje Salming and Daryl Sitler are all part of the fantasy team. Upon entering the Scotiabank Arena fans are greeted with decent-sized concourses with a plethora of concession options. For fans who enjoy the treasure hunt, there are some photos and portraits on many of the walls featuring key moments in Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs history. There are not many spots where there is empty wall space. Even stairwells are home to some classic pictures. The main team store is large and crowded and can be found on the north side of the building. It can be accessed during non-game hours from the Galleria, which also hosts the ticket windows and links directly to Union Station. Markings of the old Toronto Postal Delivery Building along with a history of the building can be found here. The Captain's Wall, which is becoming more prevalent throughout hockey venues, traces the lineage of those honoured enough to wear the Captain ‘C’ right up to the current captain, John Tavares. When entering the two-tier seating bowl, fans are bombarded with the history and accomplishments of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The two early Stanley Cup banners from the Arenas in 1918 and 1922 as the St. Pats, hang at the north side of the arena, starting from the east. These are followed to the west by the nine Maple Leafs Stanley Cup banners including 1932, 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1962, 1964, and 1967. Each banner features a picture of what the trophy looked like when presented that year. On the opposite, south side hang the banners of the retired numbers for the Maple Leafs. Hockey legends Frank, Mahovlich, Wendel Clark, Dave Keon, George Armstrong, Charlie Conacher, King Clancy, Ace Bailey, Red Kelly, Johnny Bower, Turk Broda, Hap Day, Bill Barilko, Tim Horton, Teeder Kennedy, Syl Apps, Mats Sundin, Borje Salming Darryl Sittler and Doug Gilmour all have a home here. These banners have an appropriate home right in front of the Foster Hewitt Memorial Gondola, where the various press sit. The ice runs from east to west with the perfect center ice picture coming from the south side. The gameday presentation of the Toronto Maple Leafs provides a bit of a quandary. The Leafs are forced to find a balance between the classic and modern, historical and modern. The massive, state-of-the-art video board is used magnificently and the video montages produced by the team are top-notch and do a good job of balancing the old and new. Jimmy Holmstrom plays the organ during specifically featured breaks, however, it seems that the organ is featured less than in previous years. Carlton the Bear partakes in some promotions and traverses the arena, interacting with fans. The Leafs employ an in-house DJ and have in-game hosts, which lean more toward the modern. The 2023-24 season has been fraught with controversy with regards to the Leafs goal song. For the last number of years, the goal song was “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” by Hall and Oates, which received props as being original and refreshing in this publication. The Leafs began the season with a more contemporary goal song which was met with vitriol as a result of concerning lyrics in their selection. Since then, the Leafs have gone with “Dup Dup” by Mickie Krause, which is just another bland, electronic song like so many other teams employ. The Leafs have gone from being a leader and original to a team following all of the others in this manner. It is curious why the Leafs can’t get an original song written by one of the plethora of musical artists who frequent Leaf games. Neighbourhood 5 Scotiabank Arena has a prime location that is second to none in the National Hockey League. Scotiabank Arena is located right in the heart of the excitement in Toronto, one of the top tourist cities in North America. Toronto is a vastly cosmopolitan city that offers just about anything that visitors could want. The restaurant scene in Toronto is fantastic and there are a multitude of pre and post-game spots for food and drink within mere steps of Scotiabank Arena. Real Sports is located right in Maple Leaf Square as is e11even. The Loose Moose, The Fox, Miller Tavern, Taverna Mercatto, and Kelly's Landing, to name a few, are all great options that are within walking distance. A unique dining experience fans could choose to partake in is at the top of the CN Tower which features excellent food and the best view of the city there is. Toronto is also a sports fan haven as there are a ton of other sporting options. Scotiabank Arena is shared with the Toronto Raptors of the NBA. Just down the road is Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays of MLB. Heading west along Lakeshore Blvd. will bring fans to Exhibition Place which has BMO Field and Coca-Cola Coliseum on the grounds. These are the homes of the Toronto Argonauts, Toronto FC and Toronto Marlies. A pilgrimage to the old Maple Leaf Gardens may be of interest. The hockey and basketball teams of Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) can be found here. Just north is the University of Toronto where the Varsity Blues have a variety of athletic teams including hockey, basketball and football. There are plenty of other tourist destinations in the immediate area. The CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium are worth checking out. The Eaton Centre is an iconic Toronto shopping destination and there are always events going on at Harbourfront. However, any fan reading this review must take a trip to see the hallowed Hockey Hall of Fame. Just a few blocks from Scotiabank Arena, it is arguably as good as Cooperstown and warrants multiple trips. For fans wishing to stay near the Scotiabank Arena, the Westin Harbour Castle is close. However, any downtown option will be on the pricey side. Fans 4 The Maple Leafs enjoy one of the strongest set of attendance figures over the years. The Leafs consistently attract more than 18,700 fans per game and enjoy over 100% capacity most years. In the 2022-2023 season, the Leafs had the fifth-highest average attendance. That figure has dropped to sixth in 2023-2024, however, the top team includes an outdoor game, which slightly skews the data. Over all of the years of poor teams and close calls, Leafs Nation has shown up at the turnstile or tuning in on television making the Leafs one of the most valuable teams in the NHL. Fans in Scotiabank Arena are typically late arriving and the most expensive seats remain empty well into the first stoppage of the period. Fans are also typically quiet, being more reactive than proactive. The well-worn “Go Leafs Go” and reactions to goals or close calls are the extent of Leaf fan interaction. Access 4 Getting to the Scotiabank Arena by car will force fans to traverse the Toronto traffic, which can be a real challenge. The Lakeshore is quite far from Highway 401 in the north, so using Lakeshore Blvd or the Gardiner Expressway to travel east or west along the lake will be required. There are plenty of parking options around which can be found for $20 or more. The real travesty is that the City of Toronto has not taken any lessons from other cities when events are put on. Upon exiting Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Police are not present aiding in the movement of traffic, leaving drivers on their own to get out of downtown. On the plus side, public transit downtown is very good. Union Station is attached to the Scotiabank Arena. TTC subways and GO Transit trains along with Via Rail trains can be found here. Fans should check the TTC or GO Transit websites for maps, fares and schedules. Getting around the Scotiabank Arena is not difficult, however, fans need to keep in mind that there is rarely less than a full house in the arena and intermissions will be congested. Washroom facilities are more than adequate but will have lineups during intermissions as well. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto Maple Leafs and Scotiabank Arena websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the arena. Return on Investment 3 The Toronto Maple Leafs are the most expensive experience in the NHL. According to the 2022 Fan Cost Index, the Leafs are at the top of the NHL heap at nearly $700. Ticket prices are part of dynamic pricing, as are for many pro teams. Tickets for a Saturday game or against an Original Six or Canadian team will increase prices significantly. Obstructed standing-room spots are going for between $98 and $189 on the primary market. Secondary market tickets are in many ways all that is available and come with the increase in ticket prices that are expected. Prices can go up over $700 in some cases. It will cost some money to park the car and concessions, although high quality, will be on the expensive side. The Leafs do what they can to provide the best possible environment for hockey and there will not be a game where the seats are empty. However, the return struggles to meet the significant investment fans are required to put out for a Leafs game. Extras 3 An extra mark for the change in fortunes for the Leafs on the ice. They are once again in a relevant position in the Toronto sports scene. An extra mark for the vast history of the Leafs and their position as a member of the fabled NHL “Original Six.” An extra mark for the continued rivalries the Leafs have with so many teams including the Red Wings, Senators, Sabres and of course, the Canadiens. Final Thoughts All hockey fans should consider making a pilgrimage to see the Toronto Maple Leafs and extend the trip to see the city of Toronto and especially the Hockey Hall of Fame. Scotiabank Arena remains among the premier venues in the league and MLSE has done a spectacular job keeping the arena relevant for the last two decades and continuing to revamp and upgrade the experience. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Tiger Tennis Complex Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Tennis Complex website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 100 Towson Tennis Towson University is the second-largest public university in the State of Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 college students, of which 18,000 are undergraduates. Their football team played for the 2013 Football Championship Subdivision National Championship, falling short to North Dakota State. The basketball team has also had scattered success over the years, most notably in the early 1990s under coach Terry Truax, with guards Kurk Lee and Devin Boyd in the old East Coast Conference. The Truax-led teams made it to two straight NCAA tournaments in 1990 and 1991. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, 15-time ECAC Champions, and 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. The Tiger Tennis Complex, home to the Tiger tennis team, is located behind TU Arena and adjacent to the TU Field Hockey Complex and Tiger Softball Stadium. There is only a women's tennis team at Towson. Food & Beverage 1 There is a simple concession stand located at the nearby Tiger Softball Stadium that sells basic options such as soda, water, chips, and candy. It is a simple affair and you will want to eat elsewhere for a real meal. This will only be useful if softball is going on, and the stand is open, at the same time as a tennis event. Atmosphere 1 This is a basic setup with a small set of bleachers and a small, covered picnic area. There is no PA or scoreboard to keep track of action. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the complex. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are Glory Days Grill and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Fans 2 There will be very few fans at most meets as the complex is behind 3 other athletic facilities and is not very well known to most fans. Access 3 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn locations of the sports complexes. The Tiger Tennis Complex is hidden behind SECU Arena and may not be easy to find. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 4 There is no admission charge so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 1 The only real extras are the unique location (hidden by an arena, the nearby loading dock, and two other fields). Final Thoughts The Tiger Tennis Complex is not a place you will normally search for an amazing sports experience, but if you happen to be in the area it is a cheap way to enjoy a game of tennis.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Rhoads Stadium 321 Peter Bryce Blvd Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Alabama Crimson Tide website Rhoads Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 3,940 “Don’t Give A ’Care’ Bout’ Nothin’ but the Tide!” Not long after the final strands of confetti settle from the College Football National Championship game, and basketball gears up for a final push toward conference tournaments, the action at Rhoads Stadium, home of Alabama Crimson Tide softball, begins to heat up. Opened in 2000, Rhoads Stadium has seen the Crimson Tide claim six Southeastern Conference regular season titles and has also seen them clinch college softball’s ultimate prize in 2019. Alongside the success Alabama softball has achieved on the field, there has also been a correspondingly high level of support in the stands. Food & Beverage   4 Concessions at Rhoads Stadium offer a wide selection of entrees, including the ever-popular stadium hot dog, fried chicken sandwich, or chicken tenders, all served with French fries. Additionally, loaded fries topped with chili or brisket are available, along with the popular "Roll Tide Rolls”, a type of stuffed bread. For snacks, options include a large German pretzel with beer cheese, churro donut bites, popcorn, and the baseball classic, peanuts, and Cracker Jack. Beer and other alcoholic beverages are also available at Rhoads Stadium, ranging from domestic and craft-style beers to seltzers and canned cocktails. The only thing missing are local vendors; it would be nice to have a touch of local tastes to complement the already strong stadium menu. Atmosphere   5 From the outside, Rhoads Stadium presents a series of brick buildings, primarily housing concessions and restrooms, with iron gates spanning the space between each brick structure. Upon an initial view of the field, it is impossible to miss the massive Alabama “A” emblazoned on the grass of the center field. A large video scoreboard also sits just beyond the left-center field fence, displaying inning-by-inning line scores, individual player statistics, lineups, and batters due up the next half inning. The scoreboard is likewise used for video of mid-inning contests. In addition, smaller scoreboards with inning, score, and ball/strike count are visible for those in the outfield, who are seated behind the main scoreboard. Throughout the game, an in-game host engages fans with a variety of games, mostly geared toward younger fans, but which seem to be engaging to all. The grandstand extends from third base to first base. Seating directly behind home plate, as well as the first four rows of the grandstand, consists of individual fold-down seats. The concourse then continues around to the outfield seating area known as “The Brickyard” – this area is comprised of multiple levels of grassy tiers, filled with fans in camping chairs and serving as the student section. Other fans who prefer not to sit in traditional seats may find the drink rail along the first base side of the field appealing. Neighborhood   5 Rhoads Stadium is situated in the northeast athletics neighborhood of Alabama’s campus next to Baumgardner Tennis Facility and Alabama Soccer Stadium.  At just under 2 miles away, this area of campus is the furthest from Tuscaloosa’s main entertainment district, “The Strip”.  But if the college nightlife of The Strip seems too overwhelming, downtown Tuscaloosa offers a more relaxed atmosphere featuring restaurants, shops, and hotels. In the immediate area, Alabama restaurant chain Baumhower’s Victory Grille is just across McFarland Boulevard from the softball stadium, situated next to Hampton Inn; most of the other buildings near the facility are parts of the University of Alabama’s medical park. Approximately a mile and a half south on McFarland Boulevard there is a cluster of mixed-use shopping developments, lodging, and restaurants. While this area is convenient, it lacks the unique charm that defines a college town like Tuscaloosa. The Strip, near Bryant-Denny Stadium, and the downtown area offer much more character and atmosphere. Fans   5 A banner hanging from the fence around the perimeter of Rhoads Stadium boldly proclaims Alabama softball fans as "The Best Softball Fans in the Country”. While the claim might be hard to quantify, a strong case could be made by the Crimson Tide – with an average attendance of over 3,800 fans per game, the only other fan base in the country that can rival this attendance figure is the Oklahoma Sooners. Certainly, crowds of this size at Rhoads Stadium create significant noise in response to the ebbs and flows of the game. However, there's also a sense that Alabama softball fans are not just supporters because of the name on the front of the jersey; rather, they show passionate dedication to the softball program itself. Access   4 Interstate 20 and two US highways provide easy access to Tuscaloosa, making Rhoads Stadium conveniently reachable for fans coming from any direction. Access to the area is most direct from McFarland Boulevard, which runs just east of campus. Free parking is available in the lots to the north of Rhoads Stadium, with overflow parking at the student recreation center. Both locations are just a short walk away. Rhoads Stadium offers two main points of entry: a main gate located just to the first base side of home plate, and a secondary entrance up the right field line, specifically designated for ticket holders in the Brickyard. The concourse provides ample space for fans to stand and watch the game from behind the grandstand seating without obstructing the flow of foot traffic around the venue. Return on Investment   4 Tickets for seating in the Brickyard start at $10 for non-conference games and $15 for conference series. While this may initially seem high, it's important to consider that softball in the SEC is one of the top conferences in the nation, making $15 a reasonable admission price. Grandstand seating tickets typically belong to season ticket holders and thus are often difficult to find, unless purchased on the secondary market – tickets on the secondary market can be found starting at just $6 after fees. With tickets available for under $10 and free parking, it balances out the slightly higher concession prices here, making for a more affordable overall experience. Extras   3 The Brickyard seating area offers fans a unique perspective to enjoy the game while providing kids with the freedom to throw a softball or football around. Numerous graphics around the stadium pay tribute to the team and individual accomplishments of Alabama softball players. The outfield wall showcases the legends of Alabama softball, while the concourse features displays honoring Alabama’s All-Americans and the 2012 National Championship team. Flying proudly over the right center field wall, a crimson flag commemorates the Crimson Tide’s 2012 National Championship. Final Thoughts It is no secret that Alabama football is what drives much of the fandom of Crimson Tide athletics, but the passion for athletics does not simply end on the gridiron. Alabama softball enjoys one of the most supportive fan bases in all of college softball. From the highly supportive fan base to the first-class facility and engaging game presentation, Alabama is one of the top college softball experiences in the country.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 AdventHealth Stadium 755 Braves Blvd Rome, GA 30161 Rome Emperors website AdventHealth Stadium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 5,105 Hail To The Emperors! Rome, GA has been a member of the Atlanta Braves farm system since 2003, when the Macon Braves relocated to NW Georgia and a brand-new ballpark, then known as State Mutual Stadium. The team played at a low level of competition in the South Atlantic League. Over the years the then Rome Braves won two South Atlantic League titles (2003, 2016). They also brought home three half-season titles (2006, 2012, 2018). In 2021, the South Atlantic League and Macon moved up to the High A level of competition as a part of the massive realignment in the MiLB. In the fall of 2023, the Rome Braves made a major decision…. to go back (actually… way, way back!) to the future, as they rebranded themselves as the Rome Emperors. Oh, they still are the High A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, but they now have separate ownership at the local level. The city they represent got its name from ancient Rome, as both cities are built between seven hills with several rivers that run through them. The Emperor portion of the name denotes one who leads, not follows, and is all-powerful. However, the team did not want a knockoff of the Little Caesar pizza character to serve as its mascot. What would represent them the best? The answer was a penguin, an Emperor Penguin named Julius to be exact. Emperor penguins are the largest species of penguins as they rule their lands, and conquer whatever challenges they face. This penguin wears a toga consisting of the regal colors of gold, red, white, and black…. the new uniform colors of the Rome ballclub. Finishing out the new look are the Roman columns that are on the front of the Rome baseball caps. The response to the changes has been, as you would suspect…. world-beating! The Emperors’ temple is now known as AdventHealth Stadium, after a change in the sponsorship agreement in 2022.  The ballpark seats 5,000, with additional room available for fans on the natural berms in the outfield. The field dimensions are LF 335’, CF 401’, and RF 330’. Food & Beverage 4 The Emperors offer a wide variety of foods at their three concession stands along the concourse that runs underneath the stands. The Georgia Grill and the Empire Eatery have identical menus, with one stand servicing the third base side of the stadium and the other servicing the first base line. Their menus include an extra-large pizza slice ($8), nachos ($6), hot dogs ($5), hamburgers ($8), a Brutus burger, a platter ($21) sausages ($7), crackerjacks ($5), popcorn ($7), and boiled peanuts ($5). The Los Pinguenos stand offers the “Julius Catch” platter with three cornbread-dusted catfish filets with malt vinegar fries and tartar sauce ($17). The stand also offers ballpark nachos ($8), extreme nachos ($11), regular nachos ($6), walking tacos ($9), taco salads ($9), and churro bites ($5). Frozen Treats is a separate concession stand that sells dessert items. It offers Mason Jar Icees ($12), ice cream sundaes ($6), Oatly Ice Cream bars ($5), and candy ($4). Beverages sold at AdventHealth Stadium include Coca-Cola brand sodas ($6 for 24 oz size), bottled water ($4), and Powerade Energy drinks ($6). Adult beverages include Miller and Coors brand beers ($7 for 16 oz size) or 16 oz craft beers ($8). The ballpark offers special savings on specific food items during weekday games. Fans can enjoy $2 Tuesdays where popcorn, hot dogs, and drinks are each two bucks. Double Dog Wednesday allows fans to bring their dogs to the ballpark and get two hot dogs for the price of one. Thirsty Thursdays offers beers for $2 for a 12-ounce draft. On Sunday Fun Day children under 12 can eat for free at the ballpark. They are also allowed to run the bases following the Sunday games. Atmosphere 4 The staff at AdventHeath Stadium work hard to ensure that fans at an Emperors game have a good time. They are not overly officious about enforcing where you sit if there are plenty of empty seats. The seating bowl is close to the action, and there’s not a bad seat in the house. There is some sort of game or entertainment on the field when there is a break in the action. The Emperors’ Team store was enlarged and restocked with all new and rebranded merchandise in time for the 2024 season.  It is located along the concourse behind home plate. The team store opens at 10 am on game days. Otherwise, it is open 10-6 Monday-Friday during the season. Home Run Hill is a great place to spread out a blanket and watch the action on the field while seated on a grass slope. Fans are welcome to sit on the berms that hug both the first and third base lines. Neighborhood 3 AdventHealth Stadium is located on Veterans Memorial Highway, which is the perimeter highway around downtown Rome. The only other business nearby is the Bella Roma restaurant which sells Italian food. It is adjacent to the stadium. Downtown Rome is only three miles from the ballpark, and it is well worth the short drive before or after the Emperors’ game. The city is famous for its three rivers that made it a center for transportation as well as a textile center, due to the many mills located in the city during the 1800’s. The city is also home to Berry College, which has the world’s largest college campus based on acreage. Rome also has several historical sites related to the Cherokee Indian Nation. The Trail of Tears began in the Rome area and ended in Oklahoma. There are numerous bars and restaurants in the downtown area. Fans 4 Emperor fans are very proud of their hometown team. They are night shy about telling you about all the former Rome players who have gone on to “The Show” sixty miles down the highway at Truist Park. The new team name has also energized the fans, as it much more to the city of Rome in both a modern and ancient way (after all… When in Rome!) There is a Kid’s Zone with games, inflatables, and a bounce house located near the right field foul pole. In addition to the food and drink specials during the week, AdventHealth Stadium also has some non-food-related promotions for fans.  T-Shirt Tuesdays provide fans with special Emperors T-shirts with various designs throughout the season. Fireworks Fridays include a colorful end to the work week with a bang. In addition, the Emperors will hold several Bobblehead nights featuring different players from both Emperors and the Atlanta Braves. Access 3 All roads lead to Rome…. If you don’t mind traveling 30 miles off the interstate! Directions from Atlanta: Take I-75 North to exit 190 (Rome-Canton) Turn left off exit and follow Highway 411/20 towards Rome for 22 miles. At the intersection of Highway 411 and Highway 1 (Veterans Memorial Highway) turn right. Follow Highway 1 for seven miles. The stadium will be on your right at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Highway and Riverside Parkway. Directions from Chattanooga: Take I-75 South to Exit 312 (Calhoun). Turn right at the end of the exit onto Highway 52 West towards Rome for 20 miles. Once in Rome, turn right at Calvary Baptist Church (Veterans Memorial Highway /Highway 1. The stadium will be on your right in 1.5 miles at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Highway and Riverside Parkway. Ballpark gates open one hour before the first pitch. Return on Investment 4 Parking is $5 per car. There is also overnight parking available for RV’s in this lot for $30 a night. AdventHealth Stadium is a cashless facility. Tickets sold the day of the game will be $2 more. Tickets are available at several different price points. Diamond-level seats (run from dugout to dugout behind home plate): $17 Tuesday/Thursday and $21 Friday-Sunday Dugout seats (front row seats beyond dugout to foul pole): $14 Tuesdays/Thursdays and $21 Friday-Sunday General Admission (seats above the concourse level): GA seats can also sit on the grass berms in the outfield Tuesdays/Thursdays $9 Friday- Sundays $12 Extras 2 Most of the current Atlanta Braves baseball team got their start at the Class A level of professional baseball with the team in Rome at AdventHealth Stadium. These players include Ronald Acuna, Ozzie Albies, Bryce Elders, Jeff Francoeur, Max Fried, Michael Harris, Jason Heyward, Craig Kimbrel, Brian McCann, Charlie Morton, Austin Riley, Mike Soroka and Spencer Strider. The new owners of the ballclub want to make AdventHealth Stadium more available to the community on a year-round basis as well as when the Emperors are on the road in-season. Amongst the events added to the stadium’s schedule are a sports collector trade show (April), a Night of Hope Concert (April), an Emperors Summer Camp (July), a Penguin Waddle 3km/5km/10km Run (July), a community Toga-Yoga event in August, a Rome-tober Beer Fest (October), Beer, Bags and BBQ (November) and Winter Wonderland (Thanksgiving – December 29). To learn more about any of these events, please call (706) 378-5120. Final Thoughts The Rome Emperors have pulled off a very successful rebranding of their franchise to the delight of their loyal fans. The red, gold, black, and white colors of the team are now found throughout the Classic City. As the saying goes, when in Rome do as the Romans do…. Enjoy a night out at AdventHealth Park.

Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes Since the dawn of the motion picture industry, film makers have found their way to Texas to create their silver screen magic. The very first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, Wings, was filmed in Texas. Westerns, comedies, romances, and sci-fi have all been made within the confines of the Lone Star State. However, perhaps no other genre has lent itself so well to being filmed in Texas than the sports film. While football has been the subject most visited in the state, virtually every sport has been filmed in Texas. To be fair, not all have been great, and thanks to the trusted ranking scores of Rotten Tomatoes, I’m able to come up with a definitive list (although I strongly disagree with the rankings for Necessary Roughness and Varsity Blues, which sit at 35% and 45%, respectively). With that in mind, here are the top 10 highest rated sports movies filmed in Texas – from lowest-rated to highest – according to Rotten Tomatoes. Grab your popcorn and enjoy! (Viewer discretion is advised.) Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 10) Bad News Bears in Breaking Training (1977) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 50% Director: Michael Pressman Starring: William Devane, Jackie Earle Haley, Chris Barnes, Jimmy Baio, Alfred W. Lutter The first sequel in the Bad News Bears franchise sees (most of) the gang back together, scheming their way across the country in order to play the Texas little league champions in the fabled Houston Astrodome. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 9) Glory Road (2006) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 55% Director: James Gartner Starring: Josh Lucas, Derek Luke, Jon Voight, Mehcad Brooks, Austin Nichols Based on the inspiring true story of the 1966 Texas Western College Miners team that won the NCAA men’s basketball championship with an all-African American starting lineup, Glory Road would win the 2006 ESPY Award for Best Sports Movie. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 8) 12 Mighty Orphans (2021) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 63% Director: Ty Roberts Starring: Luke Wilson, Martin Sheen, Robert Duvall, Vinessa Shaw, Jake Austin Walker Another “based on a true story” film chronicles the legendary football team from the Masonic School for Orphans in Fort Worth, TX. The Mighty Mites captured the imagination of the country during the Great Depression for their spirit and resilience. I personally recommend it, along with the book that serves as its basis. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 7) Tin Cup (1996) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 72% Director: Ron Shelton Starring: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Cheech Marin, Don Johnson, Rex Linn This cult classic comes from the director of Bull Durham and White Men Can’t Jump. It finds West Texas driving range pro Kevin Costner battling his inner demons, navigating a love triangle, and living every golfer’s dream as he unexpectedly finds himself at the top of the U.S. Open leader board. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 6) Friday Night Lights (2004) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 82% Director: Peter Berg Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Derek Luke, Jay Hernandez, Jay Hernandez, Tim McGraw Arguably no other work has done more to enrich the lore and mystique of high school football in Texas than Buzz Bissinger’s book on which this movie and the subsequent TV show are based. For those who don’t know, the film chronicles a season of the legendary Permian High School Panthers and the town of Odessa. This film also won the ESPY Award for Best Sports Movie. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 5) The Rookie (2002) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 84% Director: John Lee Hancock Starring: Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez, Brian Cox, Angus T. Jones The best sports movies are always those based on true stories. However, the story of former big league pitcher Jim Morris’s rise from Texas high school science teacher to the Major Leagues seems like pure fantasy – even though it isn’t; this film is the very definition of a feel good movie. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 4) North Dallas Forty (1979) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 85% Director: Ted Kotcheff Starring: Nick Nolte, Mac Davis, Charles Durning, John Matuzak, Bo Svenson No movie did more to pull back the curtain on the inner workings of professional football than this one. Based on former Dallas Cowboy wide receiver Peter Gent’s best-selling book, this is arguably the best football movie, and treated the sport with a realism that has rarely, if ever, been matched. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 3) Everybody Wants Some!! (2016) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 87% Director: Richard Linklater Starring: Blake Jenner, Zoey Deutch, Glen Powell, Tyler Hoechlin, Ryan Guzman This movie has been called the spiritual successor to native Texan Linklater’s seminal Dazed and Confused, and film carries with it a lot of the same themes, albeit with a college baseball spin. Set in Texas in the fall of 1980, the movie is a true slice of nostalgia wrapped up in a college movie. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 2) The Iron Claw (2023) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 89% Director: Sean Durkin Starring: Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Lily James, Holt McCallany Full disclosure, this was hands down my favorite movie of the year last year; it brought back a ton of good and bad memories. Chronicling the ill-fated rise and fall of the legendary Von Erich wrestling family, I cannot recommend this movie highly enough. Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes 1) Cassandro (2023) Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92% Director: Roger Ross Williams Starring: Gael Garcia Bernal, Roberta Colindrez, Perla De La Rosa, Joaquin Cosio, Bad Bunny I was pleasantly surprised to find this movie made the top spot on this list. The biographical tale of one of lucha libre’s top exóticos has proven to be a hit with both critics and fans. The movie explores identity and pride, while giving a look inside the world of Mexico’s beloved pastime. As a bonus, one of the all-time great masked wrestlers appears as himself. ----- Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477. Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photos by Gail, Dan, and Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente 65 Avenida Infanteria Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985 Gigantes de Carolina website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 12,500 Clemente Stadium The oft-used phrase “Baseball is Life” continues to be true in Puerto Rico.  Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente is named after Carolina’s native, Roberto Clemente, who became famous to all baseball fans as a great player, and even more so, a great humanitarian. Late in the 1972 season, he became the 11th MLB player to record 3,000 hits.  Sadly, on December 31, 1972, he insisted on flying to Nicaragua to ensure supplies on the plane were properly delivered to the Nicaraguan earthquake survivors.  The heavily loaded plane took off from San Juan, one engine failed, and it crashed off the coast attempting to return to the airport. The Clemente Stadium was built in 2000 and is located 18 miles east of San Juan and 11 miles east of SJU (San Juan Airport).  Residential and commercial areas surround the park, though it is located off Highway 3.  It features a beautiful exterior with a huge Clemente statue at the entrance and a large parking lot. Clemente Stadium Entrance, Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Hurricane Maria caused extensive damage to Puerto Rico in 2017.  FEMA funded $18,400,000 to repair and renovate the stadium. Estadio de Roberto Walker Clemente has hosted MLB games, and if the Puerto Rican fans have their way, this will become the home to an expansion team in the future.  It is a multi-purpose stadium, home to the Gigantes de Carolina. Food & Beverage 3 The stadium features traditional “Criollo” native Puerto Rican food, including multiple versions of fried chicken with French fries ($12), hot dogs topped with potato sticks in a combo ($8), and popcorn ($5).  Coke products and bottled water go for $3.  Miller Lite is (sadly) the only beer offered – one for $4 and three for $9.  Drinks with liquor start at $10; doubles cost $13.  During the championship series, lines were long and required patience.  Wait staff wander the stadium to sell alcoholic beverages but not food.  Overall, the prices are very high for many natives. Atmosphere 4 First – the noise!  Playoff games with a stadium full of fans with whistles, bam bams, horns, and cowbells create a LOT of noise.  If you sit in the lower level, the setting for the PA announcer’s microphone must be set at MAXIMUM, and along with the recorded music, the volume hurts one’s ears.  Our solution was to move to the upper deck where life was more peaceful – however, there are no bathrooms nor concession stands there; an elevator on the third base side helps avoid treks on the stairs.  The stadium has plastic stadium seats throughout – no cup holders.  It is time to replace the seats as the paint has worn off the metal arms. The sunset views in the right field are magnificent.  The scoreboard displays useful information about the players throughout the game.  An unusual factor is that the stadium faces south. Roberto Clement Stadium Sunset, Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 Clemente Stadium was constructed in an open area east of the Rio Grande de Loiza, with commercial buildings closest and then residential areas a quarter mile away.  We enjoyed dinner at Taco Riendo (Mexican) south of the stadium, along with Sorriso Pizzeria, which offers creative pizzas and a full-service bar.  Hotels/lodging are very limited around the stadium – the best bet is hotels near the San Juan airport. Estadio Yldefonso Sola Morales is about a 50 min drive, so if you’re on the island, visit that one too for some more “Baseball is Life.” Fans 5 Passionate, knowledgeable baseball fans abound in Puerto Rico!  During the league championship series, the experience goes up yet another level.  Local tradition is “the more noise, the better.”  Even battery-powered air horns are enjoyed and respected!  Several fans tailgate in the parking lot before the games. Access 3 Driving to the ballpark area is quite easy, with two major highways just south.  Entering the parking lot ($4) can be a bit arduous – two or three lanes.  Maps show a bus line with a stop about ¾ of a mile west of the stadium.  San Juan Airport (11 miles) is the nearest airport.  With large crowds, the aisles are often crowded.  The ticket booth is located on the ground level, just to the right of the stairs.  A small trailer nearby offers souvenirs, hats, and shirts.  Restrooms are acceptable.  The Gigantes de Carolina do not have programs for sale. Return on Investment 4 Puerto Rico has a long history of honoring seniors who can buy tickets at half-price, even for the championship series!  I recommend general admission tickets as a better value.  Food prices are on the high side, based on Puerto Rican standards. . Extras 4 The exterior of the stadium and sunset views offer “photo ops” along with the Clemente statue.  Plenty of parking is available.  Native/criollo food is good.  The scoreboard offers a good level of information.  Fan enthusiasm/knowledge is a plus; the noise volume is a negative. Final Thoughts Clemente Stadium is far and away the most attractive of all the Puerto Rican baseball stadiums.  Once we figured out that the upper deck seats were better for my ears, We enjoyed all four championship series games.  The fans are great.  It's definitely worth a visit.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Gainbridge Fieldhouse 125 S Pennsylvania St. Indianapolis, IN 46204 Indiana Pacers website Gainbridge Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 18,165 Indiana Boys Basketball State Championship The IHSAA Boys Basketball State Championship Tournament is one the nation’s most prestigious and highly attended high school tournaments that creates the fame Hoosier Hysteria annually. The first tournament was held in 1911 in Bloomington but has been a mainstay in Indianapolis for most of its history, and Gainbridge Fieldhouse since the dawn of the century in 2000. Since 1997, the tournament has been broken into four seeds (A, 2A, 3A, and 4A based on school size) which has created a heated debate on whether or not the state should return to one seed. There are pros and cons for both sides, but every March four high schools in the state are crowned champions with the same pomp and circumstance that other state champions preceded. The tournament is still one of the most highly anticipated interscholastic boys' basketball tournaments in the United States and perhaps the planet and records\ attendance figures continue to pack the BLF to cheer on their hometown team to victory. It is an experience that is headed and above other state basketball tournaments in the other 49. Food & Beverage 4 The food and beverage options have been updated at the fieldhouse and include new and familiar options. The Warehouse District BBQ and Three Point Taqueria are two options that offer fans something different at the game. The Indiana Kitchen offers lemon pepper and honey glazed chicken wings, short rib poutine, and maple bourbon sticks. If you are looking for familiar options then Fieldhouse Favorites has you covered. Hot dogs, nachos, chicken tenders, pizza, burgers, pretzels, and Pepsi products are all available. There is a value menu that features $4 hot dogs, $3 popcorn, and $8 PBR and Coors Banquet cans. A unique sweet treat is served at the Steak 'n Shake Milkshake Bar which offers cotton candy, mega M&M, and crazy chocolate brownie flavors. The Fast Break Market sells grab-and-go beverages and snacks. A nacho cart offers an array of toppings and Ben's Pretzels has long lines for freshly, made baked pretzels. The Crossroads Eats sells gourmet hot dogs. The Yuengling Flight Deck and the Jim Beam Bar offer beers, wine, and cocktails. It also has various TV screens and views of the playing court. Atmosphere 4 A state tournament game in Indiana is quite unlike any other experience you'll find in the 49 other states. With that being said, it can be a little bit daunting in an NBA-size arena to host a state championship, but surprisingly it works well, attendance figures are usually around 15,000 fans per game and most of the lower bowl seating area is full, especially for the last game of the night which pits the two largest schools in the state in terms of size and enrollment. There is a lot of unity at both ends of the seating Bowl with team colors being the norm for both participants. If it's a back-and-forth game you are bound to hear quite a bit of cheering, but if one team is searching for a late-game comeback that noise can be somewhat deafening from its fans. There is usually a student section that provides its brand of cheering throughout the contest. Bankers Life Fieldhouse itself is an exceptional place to watch a professional game as much as it is to watch a Collegiate and interscholastic game as well. The IHSAA logo is proudly displayed at Center Court and after each victory, a Podium is quickly set up we're both second place, and first-place medals are presented to each member of the team. This all cultivates with the presentation of the championship trophy to the victors. Neighborhood 5 The fieldhouse is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and even closer to retail and restaurants than Lucas Oil Stadium down the street. The only problem is choosing which place to grab a drink or eat before or after the game. Located near the arena is the local favorite Kilroy’s Bar and Grill offers 40 flat-screen televisions, shuffleboard, video games, and their famous pepperoni stuffed breadsticks. Another fan favorite, Brother’s Bar & Grill, is a short walk and is another popular destination before or after the game. A few more favorite spots after the game that are near the fieldhouse are District Tap, Tequila Street Cantina, and Pier 48 Fish House & Oyster Bar. If you have some time in town I would recommend visiting the neighborhoods of Mass Ave. and Fountain Square where one can enjoy live music, craft beer, fine dining, and a little shopping at local retail shops. Mass Ave. is also home to the Bottlework District which recently opened and houses The Garage where multiple food and drink vendors offer an array of culinary treasures. Downtown Indy is also safe, clean, and easy to get around by car, foot, or mass transit. Local museums include The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the NCAA Hall of Champions, the Indiana State Museum, and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The riverwalk canal is also a nice spot for a stroll on a warm spring day. Fans 4 Fans far and wide travel to Indianapolis annually to root for their hometown team and it doesn't matter that they have to trek through snowy conditions, such as was the day of this final, or soggy weather. Even the smallest of schools make their presence felt, especially from the southern portion of the state where basketball is still a way of life. Fans usually congregate on opposite sides of the court and are loyal to school colors sharing every single point, south, or timeout made throughout the game with both cheers and jeers. The student sections themselves widely differ for each game, but still, lend their presence in the building. Access 4 The arena is easily accessible from the major interstates of 70, 65, and 465 with parking abundant throughout the downtown vicinity. After the game, leaving these facilities takes a little know-how of the one-way streets of Indianapolis, but signs are posted that direct customers to their desired route back home. Traffic moves smoothly during this time as well, as there are officers who are stationed to keep cars moving. The same can be said for moving around the building during the game. Bathrooms, entrances, and seating areas are well-marked. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to the state championship games are only $15 per person. The concession prices are varied and in line with venues of its kind. If your alma mater is playing for the state's grand prize, there is nothing like being there in person to root for these young heroes on the court. Alumni, student cheer blocks, cheerleaders, and mascots all up the ante during the games. You might even see a few major college coaches checking out future Divison I stars. Parking ranges from $10-$20 the closer you arrive to the fieldhouse. There are multiple parking lots and garages within a few blocks of the building. Meters in the heart of the downtown area operate from 7 am to 9 pm and charge $1.50 per hour. If you are somewhat frugal like me, there is free street parking in the Fountain Square District 15-20 minute walk to the arena. Extras 4 There is nothing quite like watching basketball in a small high school gymnasium, but the game works surprisingly well in the much larger, modern facility that is the Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The building itself provides wonderful aesthetics that begin in the main lobby and continue with vintage advertisements painted on brick walls. The collection of memorabilia showcases the building as a basketball-first facility. There is an impressive array of items from former professional clubs from the city, local high schools, and the major universities and colleges in the state. A great location near many bars, restaurants, and a few shops. The area is well-lit, clean, and safe. If you enjoy walking, explore downtown on foot. Final Thoughts Following the high school state tournament in Indiana can be quite the experience beginning with regional play, followed by sectional action, moving on to semi-state games, and then finally the state championships in Indianapolis. It is one of the oldest and still one of the best high school tournaments in the country; it's safe to say that Hoosier Hysteria is alive and well and still going strong. —— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc.viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Virginia International Raceway 1245 Pine Tree Rd Alton, VA 24520 IMSA website Virginia International Raceway website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 10,000 IMSA Stars and Cars at VIR The famed Virginia International Raceway has been a favorite visit among sportscar racers for decades. It hosts multiple racing events during the season, including SRO, Trans-Am, SVRA, and GridLife. The winding roads through the hills of rural southern Virginia are challenging for many, while also providing a beautiful, verdant backdrop for some of racing’s best to test each other’s mettle. Visiting the track has become a must-do for some of racing’s biggest fans over the years, and a visit to the facility helps you understand why rather quickly. IMSA weekend is without a doubt the biggest race weekend of the year, which means this is a must-see for sportscar fans in the area. Food & Beverage 3 There are several food options in the main paddock area, including the popular Paddock Café. This spot nestled next to the track features burgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and more. To make it easier for fans to order, the café also has several bundle options that generally run in the $10 range for a main item (burger, chicken, etc.), fries, and a drink. In addition, the track has snacks, ice cream, and various other items for sale at the main concessions stand, and some food trucks pop up throughout the bigger race weekends down in the paddock area. Recently, automated tablets have been added here to speed up the ordering process, but lines to pick up orders are no less short. The track also has an on-site restaurant called Oak Tree Tavern & Connie’s Pub, which is a more upscale option than something on the quick service side down by the paddock. The biggest downside at Virginia International Raceway, however, is that there are no other food options around the facility for fans who set up camp in other parts of the venue, or who wish to wander the property to watch the racing action. Thankfully, during IMSA weekend various food trucks set up near the paddock and fan zone to offer alternative food and beverage options for fans. Atmosphere 5 Virginia International Raceway’s track is big, fast, and beautiful. Most of the track’s viewing areas offer views that extend beyond just one corner and include the complex heading up to and away from where you are set up, something that many other road courses are unable to boast. The fans also tend to come from all around and pack in the viewing mounds and grandstands around the facility, meaning you will be surrounded by your racing friends all weekend. The paint scheme and architecture of the various buildings harkens back to southern plantation-style homes, as well as to the farmhouses and barns that the rural south has become known for. Situated next to a watershed for a river, the surrounding area is also full of beautiful green trees to give Virginia International Raceway that special wooded look. VIR also continues to improve the fan access experience year over year – new tent camping areas were opened a few years ago inside the turn 1-4 area on the driver’s left, while the RV camping and fan viewing areas were also extended far down the backstretch. Neighborhood 1 The biggest downside to VIR is its lack of neighbors. While there is peace in the solitude of VIR’s rural setting, there is quite literally nothing around Virginia International Raceway in any direction for at least half an hour. Located just over an hour north of the greater Raleigh-Durham area in North Carolina, and half an hour southeast of South Boston in Virginia, you have to drive a while to find anything as far as hotels or restaurants. A lot of fans and teams stay in Danville, VA to the west, which is where you can find the closest places to eat. There you can find restaurants such as Buffalo Wild Wings and 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company, or lodging options such as Sleep Inn & Suites and Courtyard by Marriott. For something to do while in the area, South Boston Speedway features local short track racing on weekend nights, or down in Durham, NC you can visit Duke Forest for a quiet hike in the suburbs. Fans 4 The fans at Virginia International Raceway are pretty great as far as sportscar racing fans go. They love anything motorsports, show up en masse for race weekends, and know everything about the sport they love and the drivers who compete in it. You can find everything from young fans who are learning about the sport to diehard loyalists who have been going for a long time. IMSA has seen a resurgence of fan numbers in recent years, and the crowds at VIR reflect that. Filled caping sites and packed hillsides mean the racers are performing in front of large crowds that love racing, and it is a welcome sight. Access 2 To get to Virginia International Raceway, you have to drive off the main roads. State Highway 58 is the closest main roadway, connecting Danville to South Boston. There are no major highways in or around the area, with I-85 almost 30-45 minutes away to the southeast. That said, once you get to the track parking is plentiful on site and is well-marked. Fans can also enjoy getting around the facility easily, thanks to the signage pointing them towards the paddock area from the main parking lots in the infield. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for IMSA at VIR are affordable, offering fans the ability to not have to break the bank to get access to exciting racing. Camping passes are also affordable, which means you can take in the races on-site without losing your shirt. Add in concessions for relatively average prices, and a family of four can watch a full weekend of quality sportscar racing for under $250 all in. Extras 4 Virginia International Raceway’s victory lane is located right in the main paddock, meaning fans can get up close to the post-race celebrations. The venue also erects TV screens at various points around the property for fans to see the action around the track while it’s happening, meaning you won’t miss anything regardless of where you decide to watch the race. Tickets to race weekend also get you into the paddock area for free, something other tracks and races require an additional ticket for. In addition, races at Virginia International Raceway also generally include driver meet and greets and autograph sessions for fans to see the stars up close. IMSA itself also hosts various autograph sessions during the race weekend, allowing fans the ability to meet their favorite drivers. Final Thoughts Taking a trip to Virginia International Raceway is a must-do for any race fan who wants to see some quality sportscar racing. The track is big, technical, and exciting. Fans from all around flock to the speedway for a day at the races, and it is easy to see why. While driving to the track and finding a place to stay nearby may be a challenge, Virginia International Raceway offers plenty for both casual and diehard sports fans to make your visit worth the trek.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Lime Rock Park 60 White Hollow Rd Lakeville, CT 06039 Lime Rock Park website IMSA Weekend website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 75,000 IMSA at the Bullring Despite the best efforts of the track’s neighbors, Lime Rock Park is a historic and popular racing facility hidden away in northwestern Connecticut. Nestled in a small valley and surrounded by stunning forests, this New England center of speed is small yet fierce, attracting race fans from around the globe to its secluded curves. When IMSA comes to town every summer, it presents the perfect opportunity to get out and experience some racing under the sun in New England. Food & Beverage 4 The small size of Lime Rock Park means you are never too far from anywhere, which makes finding food easy. From food trucks to small vendors at various corners around the track, getting food is easy for fans. The track also features a paddock food stand that has ice cream, a wide selection of burger options, and more to satisfy the appetite of any race fan. The main food booths are in the paddock area and at the top of the Turn 2 hill, from where the majority of fans watch the race. A burger or impossible burger costs $10, while a chicken tenders and fries basket costs $11. Hot dogs range from $7 to $8 depending on the toppings you want, while drinks range from $2 for a coffee or juice to $4.50 for soda or Gatorade. Snacks like cookies, brownies, candy, chips, and pastries range from $2.50 to $3. For 2023, the main concessions stand now features a newly paved queue area, as opposed to the rocky pathway that was there before. Atmosphere 5 The beauty all around Lime Rock Park is simply stunning – the vibrant green mountains that border the track help make the car colors pop even more than normal. The smell of campfires also fills the air, as some of the best race fans in the country take up residence at the track for the weekend. With a paddock that is open to all fans during all race weekends and a victory lane located at the bottom of an amphitheater-style hill for fan viewing, there is almost nowhere on the track you cannot find a great view. In addition, drivers frequently toss out hats to fans after celebrating their wins. Autographs are easy to get here, while a fan walk before the main race always brings out the fans. Perhaps most overlooked are the main paddock restrooms, which are always spotless and fully air-conditioned. Neighborhood 2 If you want to feel unwelcome by the residents of a town in which your sporting event is being held, just travel to Lime Rock Park. Weekend homes for New York City residents dot the streets around the track, and almost every single one has a large yellow sign outside their home that reads “SUNDAY NO RACING!” in protest of the track’s noise. Though the debate has raged for years, it nonetheless makes new fans and visitors to the facility feel rather unwelcome in the small New England town. Easily the biggest downside of Lime Rock Park is its location and its lack of any large towns nearby. Quite literally located off small one-lane roads, the track is bordered by homes and farm fields, mixed with dense New England forest. The nearest hotels are the Interlaken Inn and Wake Robin Inn, both a good 15-minute drive north into Lakeville. Food options in Lakeville, the nearest town, include Black Rabbit Tavern and The Woodland Restaurant. For sightseers, Haystack Mountain State Park offers great hiking trails, while the Saville Dam area is a favorite spot for photo takers. Fans 5 The fans at Lime Rock Park are diehard racing fans. They follow IMSA, SRO, SVRA, WEC, Trans Am, and more, making them extremely sports-knowledgeable. They’re also passionate about their favorite drivers, fly the flags of their preferred manufacturers, pack the hillsides for every headliner, and support race during a given race weekend. From club racing to vintage and pro weekends, Lime Rock Park is rarely empty whenever a race is in town. Access 2 Parking on-site at Lime Rock Park is plentiful, both inside the track and out. However, that is where the convenience ends – located over an hour from the nearest interstate highway, Lime Rock Park is in a very secluded part of Connecticut, relatively speaking. The nearest major city, Hartford, is equally as far. Located between US-7 and US-44, Lime Rock Park is easy to drive past if you don’t catch the small signs that point you toward the facility. Its distance from anywhere with sufficient lodging or dining is also inconvenient for those traveling to the track from out of state, who don’t like to venture far from the action. Return on Investment 5 Lime Rock Park is one of those tracks in North America that everyone knows about and says you should visit once. The compact nature of the track makes this the sports car racing equivalent of a bull ring, which makes the on-track product quite exciting to watch. Add to this the car-lovers dream that is the open paddock, and you have the perfect mix of beautiful surroundings and quality racing that motor-heads crave. Tickets for the IMSA weekend are incredibly affordable as well, with Saturday-only tickets at $80 and full-weekend tickets at $90. Parking passes are available inside, with plenty of free parking just outside the main entrance. Extras 4 The track features autograph sessions for fans throughout each race weekend. The main midway is also home to vendors and displays, showing fans the latest tech and offering great giveaways at the races. In addition, the track’s victory lane is located at the bottom of the hill by Turn 2, creating an amphitheater-style winner’s circle that makes you feel like you’re part of the celebration. Before the races fans are welcomed onto the grid for a pre-race grid walk, where they can get up close to the cars and stars racing at the track. Final Thoughts Lime Rock Park is secluded, to say the least, and whether this is good or bad depends on the fan. What isn’t up for debate is its status as a shining star in the racing world for over 60 years and the natural beauty that surrounds it. If you’re a racing fan, this track is a must-see on anyone’s bucket list. The track is constantly trying to improve the fan experience, and unlike other stops on the calendar, it doesn’t seem to age poorly, meaning you’ll be comfortable whenever you’re there.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Daytona International Speedway 1801 West International Speedway Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Coke Zero Sugar 400 website Daytona International Speedway website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 167,785 A Final July 4th Celebration Daytona International Speedway is one of the world’s greatest race tracks. Host to countless events, one of them is the annual 4th of July NASCAR race under the lights – NASCAR’s Xfinity series and Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series take to the track for night races at one of the fastest tracks on the circuit. Fans pack in the stunning facility that has been modernized in recent years to watch some of the most exciting racing in all of America. However, with sweeping schedule changes to the 2020 NASCAR slate, Daytona will move to a new September date, meaning 2019 was the final 4th of July race at the fastest track in Florida. Nonetheless, Daytona remains one of the top tracks in the world to watch racing. Food & Beverage 4 There is plenty to eat at Daytona in the paddock and beneath the grandstands in the main concourses. From drinks, coffee, and traditional stadium fare to more eclectic choices, the variety is impressive. During the race weekend, there are also a variety of places to get food throughout the infield – from the arepa stands around the main walkways to the Bud Bar, you will never have any issues finding something to eat. Options are varied and made with quality food. The Pastrami Swiss Burger is a popular twist on the stadium favorite, costing just $10. The track also offers a gouda stuffed veggie burger for $8, or a fish & chips sandwich for $9. Hawaiian chicken sandwiches run $10, while a hot dog costs just $5. Soda and water run from $4 to $5, with beer costing $8 to $9. Atmosphere 5 The race itself is one of the biggest races in NASCAR – everyone looks forward to going to Daytona for its close racing and exciting action, but putting that same action under the lights just adds another aspect of brilliance to an already thrilling experience. The facility is stunning already, and the massive 2.5 mile racetrack features a modern fan zone on the infield that gives fans an unparalleled up-close view of the teams, cars, and even the inspection areas. The grandstands feel like a professional sports stadium thanks to the Daytona Rising renovation of the last few years. Each seat is an individual backed chair, meaning the days of cramming onto a bench with no back are over. You can sit in comfort and enjoy the action. To top it all off, you won’t miss any of the pit stops thanks to your proximity to pit road. Your elevated position gives you a great view of the pit stops during the race, and the big screens along pit road also let you see the replays after each key moment in the race. Neighborhood 4 Daytona is a party town from days gone past, when tourists flocked to the beaches during the summer months. However, the sun isn’t always so warm in North Florida in January. Nonetheless, the beaches are still just a few miles away from the track. In addition, right across the street from the track sit numerous stores, malls, and restaurants. From Chipotle and Panera to Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse, there are plenty of places to shop and eat during your stay. The closest hotels include an Extended Stay America and a WoodSpring Suites Daytona. For attractions, historic Daytona Beach is just a few miles away, and an hour south you can find Kennedy Space Center. Fans 4 NASCAR fans pack in Daytona to see the action, including the campgrounds in the infield. They cheer loudly for their favorite driver and against the rest. NASCAR fans are among the most loyal in sports and some of the most sport knowledgeable. That said, they also love their alcohol and rebel flags, so the infield may not be the best place for kids during race weekend. Aside from that, expect one of the most incredible sports experiences around when you have roaring crowds on their feet for 160 laps. Access 4 Parking at the track is plentiful – not only are there on-site parking lots for various types of parking passes, but the track also hosts numerous off-site parking options for fans to use, as long as you’re willing to walk. For those who would rather take a ride, however, trams are also available to shuttle you in and out of the facility from the off-site parking lots, as well as to take you from one point to another at the track itself. You can also wander the facility as you wish, with any ticket granting access to the stadium grandstand seats as well as the infield fan zone. The track itself is located right off I-95 (you can see the track from the highway); it is hard to miss the massive facility, but just in case you do there are tons of street signs pointing the way. Return on Investment 4 Tickets can get pricey for NASCAR races, but Daytona offers plenty of pricing options for fans at every level. From individual tickets to weekend passes, you can fit getting to Daytona International Speedway into every budget. With the cost of concessions rather affordable as well, you can go to the races here without breaking the bank. Extras 4 The track features massive fan areas in the infield and at the outside entrances, both of which are full of vendor displays and giveaways. You can also tour the Daytona USA museum during your visit for an added cost. In addition, each ticket gets you into the garage and paddock area at Daytona, and you can see fantastic views of the track and the paddock from the rooftop patio decks. Fans can also get a look at the team preparations, thanks to the viewing windows in each garage bay. Fans can also look forward to the autograph sessions throughout the weekend – the Xfinity series drivers usually hold one on Friday afternoon in the infield fan zone before the race begins. Final Thoughts The racing at Daytona is among the best in racing – the facility is top notch and the track has history around every corner. No matter what you are into, this is a sports experience that begs to be seen. Furthermore, night racing at Daytona International Speedway seems to take everything that is great about day racing and amplifies it. The colors, the sounds, the roar of the fans; all of these combine to make one great experience for fans.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Scottsdale CC Baseball Field 9000 E. Chaparral Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85256 Map It Scottsdale Fighting Artichokes website Scottsdale CC Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2010 (a guess) Capacity: 300 (approx) Go Chokes! The Scottsdale Community College Fighting Artichokes baseball team plays on its on-campus baseball field.  The school’s entire sports facility is called the Arthur W DeCabooter Athletic Complex, named after a respected city leader and former long-time school president.  The athletic complex houses football and soccer fields, two baseball and softball fields, racquetball and tennis courts, a fitness center, and more. The Artichokes are members of the NJCAA – Arizona Community College Athletics Conference (ACCAC).  The team’s name was first intended to be an embarrassment, but the students, athletes, and staff embraced it; they now proudly honor the moniker. Food & Beverage 0 Like most ACCAC ball fields, the venue does not offer concessions.  I did see a Coke vending machine outside of the building next to the field.  Fans are welcome to (and should) bring their own snacks and beverages (especially for those double headers). Atmosphere 3 Scottsdale CC Baseball Field offers a basic game day outing.  The ballpark provides one set of shadeless bleachers (nine rows) with a handrail up the middle.  The first two rows are shortened to make room for wheelchairs and strollers.   One side of the bleachers has a ramp; the other side has steps. A light-thickness net protects the fans from foul balls.  The stadium does not have any net-free seating.  The field is a plush green (at least at the beginning of the season) with grass between the bases (common for ACCAC ball fields). The outfield wall ornaments are the batter’s eye, the American flag, and the scoreboard.  The best part is looking beyond the outfield wall and gazing at the distant mountain ranges. Mountain View in the Distance at Scottsdale CC Baseball Field, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The scoreboard is a green dot matrix board showing the traditional line score.  Depending on where the sun is, it may be difficult to read.  The stadium does not have lights, so the Artichokes only play day games at home. Music is played pregame and between innings at an acceptable volume (a level where you can still have conversations with your neighbor without yelling to be heard). Players groom the field – spray it down, replace (or clean off) the base pads, rake the infield, chalk the batter’s box and baselines, etc. Artichoke Players Grooming the Field, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 2 Though Scottsdale has one of the finest downtown areas in the valley, the school is three and a half miles away from that bustling downtown.   Farmland still surrounds the plot of land where the college sits. The only place to eat nearby is a Wendy’s (about a half-mile walk).  Two exits north on Loop 101 (Talking Stick Way), you’ll find Chili’s, Red Robin, and Babbo Italian.  Talking Stick Resort (also the same exit) has more than three restaurants for eating, imbibing, and losing your money at the casino.  That same exit gets you to Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, spring training home for the Colorado Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Across Loop 101 from Scottsdale Community College is a Residence Inn by Marriott.  Keep in mind that when spring training is in session, hotel prices almost triple in cost. And, of course, downtown Scottsdale shouldn’t be missed if in the area.  Recommended places to eat in downtown Scottsdale are Karsen’s Grill (an exceptional small bar/eatery), Los Olivos Mexican Patio (Mexican and margaritas), and The Mission Old Town (modern Latin cuisine).  For many other restaurants and bars in the neighborhood, check here for a directory to find ones that might suit your tastes. If in Scottsdale during spring training, the San Francisco Giants home field is adjacent to the downtown area. The city has provided many upgrades to this stadium in the past 12 months (2023-2024), and it just might be worth checking out. For more affordable baseball (free), the Mesa CC Thunderbirds Ballpark is nine miles south, and the Paradise Valley CC Field is nineteen miles west. Fans 3 Fans are mostly friends and family of the players.  Parents, grandparents, siblings, girlfriends, and wives are in the stands.  Many seem to know each other.  Since many of the teams the Artichokes play are close in distance, fans of opposing teams are often in the stands. They all root on the players, regardless of team affiliation.  Often, the most vocal fans are the ones in the dugout. Access 2 The university and its ball field sit on the northeast intersection of Loop 101 and Chaparral Rd, about 3 ½ miles from downtown Scottsdale.  Finding the school is easy, but finding the ball field once on campus is not as easy (at least the first time there). I recommend turning left at the school’s fourth entrance off Chaparral (from the 101).  Then make a right and then a left into the parking area and head towards the Scottsdale School of Film and Theatre.    The ballpark is to the right of that building, with plenty of free parking available.  Look for signs for parking lot J, the Film School, or follow the lights for the football field. Valley Metro Bus Route 50 stops at Chaparral Rd and Pima Rd.  From there it’s a half-mile walk to the ball field.  Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport is 12 miles southwest of the school. Unfortunately, restrooms are not available.  Instead, the venue has icky-looking porta potties near the entryway. Return on Investment 5 The only expense of attending an Artichokes baseball game is the travel costs and what you bring to eat or drink.  That’s right, no charge to watch players bunting, stealing bases, making double plays, pitching, and just playing hard to make a difference for themselves and their teammates. . Extras 3 Scottsdale Community College is the only public community college located on Native American Land. The college’s nickname, Fighting Artichokes, deserves an extra mention for its creativity and making something that was supposed to be a disgrace into something to be proud of.  Love it! The Oakland A’s held spring training games and/or workouts at Scottsdale Community College in the early 1990s. Final Thoughts Pack some bottles of water, sunscreen, and a snack, and head to Scottsdale Community College Baseball Field for a fabulous mountain view and to watch some Artichokes baseball.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Sloan Park 2330 W Rio Salado Pkwy Mesa, AZ 85201 Map It Chicago Cubs Spring Training website Sloan Park website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 15,000 Cubs in Mesa Sloan Park, best known as the spring training home for the Chicago Cubs, is already celebrating its 10th season.  This facility often rates at the top of many Cactus League stadium rankings, and deservedly so. The city of Mesa, AZ, built Sloan Park on the site of the former Riverview Park Golf Course, and some beautiful landscaping remains.  The city developed the surrounding area into Riverview Park, a premiere recreation area offering fishing, water fountains, climbing towers and playgrounds, and multiple walking paths. The Cubs have been in Mesa since 1952.  The Cubs played spring training games at Rendezvous Park from 1952 – 1966, after which they moved to southern California.  Hohokam Park was the Cubs spring training facility from 1979 – 2013. Cubs fans have provided huge crowds in spring training throughout the years, and they continue to flock to the Arizona Cactus League in February and March, often breaking attendance records. Food & Beverage 5 The food choices at Sloan Park are the best in the Cactus League, though at major league prices.  Several permanent stands line the concourse, specialty kiosks sell snacks and beverages, and the right field pavilion has six or more food trucks selling an assortment of tasty cuisine. Permanent concession stands reflect Chicago:  Windy City Dog, A Taste of Chicago, The North Side, On Deck, and Rendezvous Park Grill.  The distinctive Vienna Beef Chicago Dog is available throughout the ballpark.  Other choices include regular hot dogs, bratwurst, chicken tenders, tater tots, pizza (Chicago style), pretzels, nachos, totchos (nachos made with tater tots), and more.  Prices generally run $5 - $14. Kiosks selling Chicago Dogs, kettle corn, cotton candy, ice cream, beer, peanuts, chips, churros, cotton candy, and other unhealthy snacks dot the concourse. The right field food trucks include Chuckies (famous breaded pork tenderloin from Iowa), Lobstar (New England seafood), Churros Locos (Churros and Mexican), Kona Ice, and more!  The food trucks can change from game to game.  This is your best choice for ‘non-traditional’ stadium fare. The Jim Beam Bourbon Bar is on the left field concourse.  The right field concourse has Hornitos Hacienda.  Both offer cocktails and draft beer, with Hornitos pouring Goose Island IPA (from Chicago). The concessions sell Coca-Cola brand soft drinks and all kinds of domestic and premium beer in cans and on draft.  Beers run a hefty $15.  Soda is $7, with a 20 oz bottle of water costing $6. Fans can bring in sealed bottled water and small snacks. I recommend getting your refreshments early as long queues occur during the game. Atmosphere 5 Spring training games at Sloan Park are a pleasurable, fan-packed, social event. Most seats have shade, needed for an afternoon start time.  If you prefer getting some rays, one section down the first base side gets the sun.  Seats are the traditional green stadium fold-down ones and have a comfortable width, decent legroom, and cup holders.  Two levels of seating are available, with the second level holding the press box, announcer, and suites.  Fans pack the grassy berms beyond the left field and right field fences. Sloan Park Berm Seating, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey A Budweiser Rooftop down the left field line, where fans can enjoy the game day experience, overlooks the outfield.  While the inner concourse has a wide-open view to the field, you can’t always see the game in progress while walking the concourse.  The sheer volume of fans standing at the drink rails blocks the view. Medium-thickness nets run down to the foul poles; the places to watch net-free baseball are the berms and the rooftop. The organization replaced the scoreboard in 2023, which has improved the readability considerably.  Lighting engineers adjusted the background color and numbers, making it so much easier to read. Well done!  The scoreboard provides the starting lineups, the line score, and the photo, number, DOB, hometown, and position of the player at bat.  An analog clock sits atop the scoreboard, similar to the clock over the manual scoreboard at Wrigley Field.  Spring training games do not incorporate the use of video on the scoreboard. The music person plays music while the PA announcer calls the starting lineup, a pet peeve of mine.  They do not play songs during the game, which is a relief.   Fans can converse and meet their neighbors without yelling. Neighborhood 4 About a mile northeast of Sloan Park is the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center. This center contains several places to eat, a movie theater, and many stores, including a Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Restaurants include Cracker Barrel, Famous Dave’s BBQ, Henhouse Café (good for breakfast), Papago Brewing (beers), and plenty more. A little over a mile west of Sloan Park (make a right on Rio Salado Pkwy out of the ballpark) is the Tempe Marketplace, an even larger shopping area. This shopping center contains 26 restaurants/places to eat, including the Thirsty Lion and Kings Fish House, multiple shops, and another movie theater. If shopping is your thing, this might be the place to go. For places to stay near the ballpark, the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West and a Courtyard by Marriott are just beyond the right field berms. The Hyatt Place Phoenix/Mesa is adjacent to the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center (about 1.2 miles from the ballpark). A Hilton Garden Inn and a Homewood Suites are a mile the other way (west) of the ballpark. Hotel rooms in the area triple in price during spring training, so keep that in mind. For other sports in the area, visit some of the other East Valley spring training stadiums: Hohokam Stadium (Oakland Athletics), Scottsdale Stadium (SF Giants), Salt River Fields (CO Rockies and AZ Diamondbacks), and Tempe Diablo Stadium (LA Angels). You can catch some ASU baseball or basketball, or head downtown to see a Suns game or an early-season Phoenix Rising FC match. Fans 5 It is no secret that Cubs fans are some of the most loyal in sports, and they show it in their attendance at Sloan Park.  The stadium often sells out in the spring, exceeding 15,000 fans.  The fans show up several hours beforehand to tailgate, watch the team on the practice fields, and try to catch fly balls.  The stands are full of Cubbies blue. As at most spring training venues, fans are easy to talk with as they are there to socialize and enjoy a game on a warm AZ afternoon or evening. Access 3 The stadium is at the intersection of Loop 101 and Loop 202 in Mesa, AZ (close to Tempe).  And while you’d think it would be easy getting to and from the venue, being right off two highways, it is not.  The city blocks off roads and turning lanes, causing drivers to make roundabout turns to get to and from the parking areas.  And it’s much more of a mess getting out after the game than into it. Parking in paved and grass lots costs $10 to $20.  The venue offers plenty of handicapped parking at $20 a vehicle.  A designated rideshare spot is in front of the stadium.  Public transportation is available, though some walking is required.  Check Valley Metro for schedules and fares.  Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport is 8 miles from the stadium. Sloan Park has four gates open for spring training.  Fans walk through a scanner for security purposes.  This 2024 season, bags up to 16” x 8” x 16” are allowed, though backpacks are not (even if they are clear).  The never-ending bag rules seem to change from season to season, so check their website before heading to the park. Even though they are wide, the concourses are packed and congested because of the volume of fans. The venue has plenty of restrooms, all with diaper-changing tables. Return on Investment 3 Spring training tickets run from $29 (lawn) to $99 (infield box), depending on the opponent and day, which is far too high for a spring training game.  Parking costs $10 - $20, again, way too much for spring training.  Food prices are traditional MLB prices, with beers running $15 and a hot dog $7 - $9. This is excessive to me, but fans pay it. Extras 5 Several additional items are worth noting about spring training in Mesa. The outfield area has a Kids Zone with a mini baseball field, and the left field upper deck showcases Cubs’ retired numbers. Facsimiles of Wrigley Field abound at this ballpark.  Just inside the first base gate, you will find a replica of the famous Wrigley Field marquee, where an employee will put your personalized message on the message board. There are the rooftops.  An analog clock sits at the top of the scoreboard.  Clark, Waveland, and Sheffield Street names surround the stadium.  The field dimensions and design are similar to Wrigley, as is the unique curved outfield fence near the foul poles. Sloan Park Outfield Curves, Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Replacing the scoreboard is the best thing the city has done for the game day experience at Sloan Park. Final Thoughts Though it will cost a pretty penny, all baseball fans should try to take at least one trip to see the Cubs play at their spring training home in Mesa, AZ.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 EAC Baseball Field 615 N Stadium Ave Thatcher, AZ 85552 Map It Eastern Arizona Gila Monsters website EAC Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 100+ Gila Valley Baseball The Eastern Arizona College (EAC) Gila Monster’s baseball team is an NJCAA – Arizona Community College Athletics Conference (ACCAC) member.  The team plays their home games at the school’s Thatcher campus in the Gila Valley of Eastern Arizona, nestled amongst attractive farms, ranches, hills, and Mount Graham. The baseball team began play in the 1909-10 season.  They paused between 1927-33, and the team didn’t play during WWII.  The school discontinued the baseball program from 1982-96.  The college has played baseball continuously since the 1996-97 season.  The Monsters have not yet made it to any NJCAA championship rounds. So far, one player, Chris Mabeu, has made it to the MLB.  Chris played one game for the Milwaukee Brewers in 2006.  MLB has drafted thirteen other Monster players. Food & Beverage 2 EAC Baseball Field has a small concession stand that also services the adjacent softball and soccer stadiums.  It sells basic snacks at extremely affordable prices.  Fresh cooked hot dogs and nachos cost $3; popcorn and candy are $2.  A pickle is $1.  For drinks, Pepsi products, water, and Gatorade run $2. Fans can bring in their own food and drinks.  We recommend bringing several bottles of water as it can get hot on the stadium bleachers. Atmosphere 3 The Monsters provide an enjoyable, relaxed game day experience. EAC Baseball Field was completed in the fall of 1963.  The school replaced the bleachers within the last three years.  The seating is two sets of bleachers behind home plate, five rows high, with a handrail on one side of each bleacher set.  The bleachers sit far back from the backstop.  They do not provide any shade, so bring an umbrella.  Many fans bring their own chairs and set up shop in the shade, under the pine trees, on the third base side. The backstop and dugouts are painted in vibrant purple (purple and gold are the team’s colors).  A new, sturdy, thin net protects spectators and hangs from dugout to dugout.  The scoreboard is a basic dot matrix structure in right field which shows the line score.  It can be a tad difficult to read when the bright AZ sun is shining full force. A PA announcer calls the starting lineups and announces players when they come to bat.  Not all ACCAC baseball fields have announcers, so it is a nice feature.  A container near the home plate backstop provides roster sheets (for both home and away teams). EAC Baseball Field Rosters, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Music is only played between innings, as it should be.  The volume is acceptable; fans can converse with their neighbor without yelling to be heard.  All nicely done.  Like all ACCAC ball clubs, the players groom the field after batting practice. The field is a nice plush green made of winter rye grass.  The baselines have dirt.  Pine trees line the outer right field wall.  The majestic snowcapped Mount Graham provides a dramatic view beyond first base.  The stadium does not have lights, so the team only plays day games; seven-inning doubleheaders are common, with the first game starting at noon. Mount Graham, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 2 The town boasts a population of over 5,000. Nearby hotels include Springhill Suites and Comfort Inn.  Several other familiar chains are three to four miles away. For places to eat, try Eagles Roost (hearty breakfast and lunch choices), Kainoas Hawaiian Grill (authentic Hawaiian cuisine), or Gila Hank’s Café (on-site campus restaurant),    The best place for a beer or adult beverage is JD’s Corner Sports Bar & Grill. Nearby activities include Roper Lake State Park (natural mineral water hot springs, camping, and fishing) and Mt. Graham Municipal Golf Course.  Eastern Arizona College offers a variety of events, from theater to other sports matches. Fans 2 Visitors at the Monsters baseball games are mostly families and friends.  Several of the school’s other athletes stop by to support the ball club.  All are welcoming and friendly and cheer the team on well. Gila Monster Fans Cooling Off Under the Trees, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Access 2 Thatcher, AZ is about a three-hour drive east of Phoenix, a little over two hours from Tucson, in the Gila Valley.  The closest airport to Thatcher is Tucson Airport (TUS) which is 86 miles away.  The best way to get to the venue is via automobile off US 70. The baseball field is on the south edge of campus after the soccer field on Stadium Ave.  Plenty of free parking in a gravel lot is available on the first base side.  We recommend parking closer to the soccer field as spots nearer to the baseball field may be foul ball targets. The stadium has clean restrooms next to the concessions area. Return on Investment 5 EAC Monsters do not offer a fee for watching a baseball game.  Concessions are inexpensive.  Rosters are available for no charge.   Watching America’s future take the time to play the game, support their teammates, and put forth a good effort on the diamond is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon in Eastern Arizona. . Extras 3 Eastern Arizona College is Arizona’s first community college, founded in 1888.  No other community college west of the Mississippi goes back to 1910 for baseball. Having printed rosters and an announcer calling the game deserves additional mention. Extra kudos goes to the helpful staff, athletic department, and marketing individuals. Final Thoughts Yes, it’s a bit of a drive from the Phoenix metro and even the Tucson metro area.  But if you’re looking for a few hours of unpretentious baseball with a community-oriented fan base, pack your sunscreen, water, and umbrella.  Then take a scenic drive to Arizona’s Gila Valley to watch the Gila Monsters.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Martin “Pug” Marich Field 3101 N 15th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85015 Map It Phoenix College Bears Marich Field website Year Opened: unknown Capacity: 1,000 (a guess) Bear Ball Martin “Pug” Marich Field is on the Phoenix College campus in Midtown Phoenix.  Martin “Pug” Marich coached the Phoenix College Bears baseball team from 1961 to 1968.  He guided the Bears to two national championships.  In 1985, the school named the baseball field to honor his years of devotion and commitment to the sport and to the school. The Phoenix College Bears won the National Championship in 1960, 1962, and 1965.  Six former Bears players have made it to MLB.  Forty-one have been drafted by MLB. They are members of the ACCAC (Arizona Community College Athletic Conference) – NJCAA – Region 1 – Div 2.   They were back-to-back NJCAA Region 1 – Div 2 champions in 2022 and 2023, which allowed them entry to the NJCAA D2 championship series in Enid, OK. Food & Beverage 1 Signs indicate a concession stand is in the area, but I did not find one during my visit.  I did see Coke and snack vending machines.   Fans can bring in their own food and beverages, and many do. Atmosphere 3 It’s an okay game day experience at Marich Field.  The best part is the announcer, who calls the starting lineup clearly and announces the player at bat.  He calls pitching changes for the Bears but not always for the visiting team.  I’m guessing he doesn’t always have a complete visitor roster. Seats are twelve long rows of bleachers set behind home plate with no handrails at all.   A medium-thickness net protects the fans.  A canopy covers the seating area.  It can be cold or a relief, depending on your preference and the temperature at game time.  The side closest to third base gets the sun first for afternoon games. Both dugouts are painted dark blue and gold, the school’s colors.  And they are close to the seating area.  I never realized how much activity occurs in a dugout. The stadium has lights; the Bears can play night games here.  The scoreboard is a basic dot matrix board showing the line score. Martin "Pug" Marich Field Scoreboard, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey A whole variety of music is played before the game and between innings.  The music person plays walk-up songs for the home team.  The volume is not deafening; fans can converse with each other without having to yell. The venue seems to draw a good amount of yellow jackets/bees.  For those allergic, remember to bring your EpiPen. Neighborhood 3 Being in Central Phoenix, fans can find plenty of things to see and do within driving distance of Marich Field. For food, I strongly recommend the Original Hamburger Works  known for their mesquite broiled hamburgers cooked over an open flame.  It has a full-service bar and a patio and is ½ mile from the ball field. Across the street from the Original Hamburger Works is J P Mc Gurkee's Sandwich Shop.  This is an excellent place to pick up a sandwich to bring with you to the ball game. Encanto Park and Enchanted Island Amusement Park are less than a mile from Marich Field.  They are public parks, with fishing, boating, golf, rides, picnic tables, swimming pools, and other outdoor activities.  The Heard Museum (American Indian Art) is nearby and certainly worth a visit, even if you’re not into art. Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks) and the Footprint Center (Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury) are four miles from Marich Field.  American Family Fields of Phoenix (Milwaukee Brewers spring training) and Brazell Field (GCU Antelopes) are five to six miles from the campus. For other nearby ACCAC baseball fields, Glendale CC, Scottsdale CC, and Mesa CC are between15 and 20 miles away, and those games are free to attend. Hotels nearby include the Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Midtown, both over a mile from Marich Field.  Several other well-known hotel chains are within a mile or two. Fans 2 The fans are mostly family and friends of the ball players.  Depending on the opponent, some visiting fans will attend the games.  At the game of this review, attendance seemed sparse, although given the larger than normal seating capacity at this community college field, it would take quite a large crowd to make it seem packed.  All are there to support their sons/grandsons, cheering them on and slipping them snacks and treats in the dugout. Very few students attend mid-afternoon matches.  The biggest fans are the ones in the dugouts (the teammates). Access 3 Phoenix College and Marich Field are midway between I-17 and Central Ave and between Thomas Rd and Osborne Rd, just three miles north of Downtown Phoenix. Free parking is available, with the closest lot at N 11th Ave and W Campus Dr (lots of speed bumps are in the lot).   The Valley Metro Osborn/Central Ave light rail station is one mile from the ball field.  Bus route 15 has a stop at 15th Ave and Earll Dr just beyond left field.  Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is six and a half miles southeast of the college. The bleachers have zero handrails, so those who can’t climb steps without support or are unsteady on their feet can only sit in the very first row.  The venue does not have any specific area for wheelchairs, but the walkway between the bleachers and the netting has room. The facility has restrooms in the building behind the first baseline.  Porta Potties are also on site. While there are ample ways of getting to the field, not having handrails to get up the bleachers is a deterrent. Return on Investment 4 Of the eight ACCAC baseball fields I’ve visited, Marich Field is the first one that charged admission.  Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students.  Cash.  The school does not charge for parking.  The gameplay is not different than other ACCAC ball fields.  The stands hold more fans than the other fields, and it is covered for those hot afternoon games.  Still, I was taken aback that they charged a fee. . Extras 1 If you get a chance, enter the ‘Bear Den’ atrium (the Bear Den is the basketball gym just south of Marich Field) and peruse the championship trophies of all Phoenix College Bears athletic teams, including the 1965 NJCAA baseball trophy. Phoenix College Bears Trophies, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Martin “Pug” Marich Field, located in Midtown Phoenix, is a decent place to enjoy a Phoenix College Bears baseball game.

Photos by Gregory Koch and Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 John B. Schuerholz Park 7500 Osler Dr Towson, MD 21252 Towson Tigers website John B. Schuerholz Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 500 Towson Tigers at Schuerholz Park Towson University is the second-largest public university in the State of Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 students, of which 18,000 are undergraduates. In 2014, the Towson football team played for the Football Championship Subdivision National Championship, falling short to North Dakota State. The basketball team has also had scattered success over the years, most notably in the early 1990s under coach Terry Truax, with guards Kurk Lee and Devin Boyd in the old East Coast Conference. The Truax-led teams made it to two straight NCAA tournaments in 1990 and 1991. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, 15-time ECAC Champions, and 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. Baseball has had some success over the years. But recently it has come close to being axed by the university. Only some last-minute donations and an agreement with the state kept the program alive. John B. Schuerholz Park is named after the 1962 graduate of what was then Towson State College. You may know the Baltimore native more as the former General Manager and President of the Atlanta Braves. Food & Beverage 2 There is a simple concession stand located at the base of Schuerholz Park. The menu is not very deep, but the value is decent. Fans can always bring their outside food as no one will stop them. Atmosphere 3 Baseball was played on this site before 2001. But the creation of Schuerholz Park made it official. The simple bleacher-laden grandstand extends between the dugouts, and behind the home plate area. Many fans also like to sit on the hill next to nearby Burdick Hall. You have a great view of the field from there and will not be obstructed by netting. There is also another unique place to watch a game. Towson University has beefed up the walking path towards the West Village part of the campus. West Village is where many residence halls exist, so there has been a need to make this path safer, including a wide footbridge across busy Osler Drive. The eastern end of this bridge sits right next to Schuerholz Park and it offers a raised platform to watch baseball games. There is a PA system and announcements and music are played. Free roster sheets are given out at the stadium. Former Orioles player Billy Hunter was at one time the Tiger's head coach and brought many game-day traditions over from the Baltimore club, so expect to experience some recognizable themes and music at the game. The stadium also sits right at the corner of Towsontown Boulevard and Osler Drive. The main view past the outfield wall is the traffic at that intersection. Luckily the general view is not all that unattractive as there are plenty of green trees there as well. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing right by the stadium, except for the University Union. Towson is a semi-urban environment with a large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are Glory Days Grill and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Fans 2 Fans at Schuerholz Park tend to primarily be family or friends of the players. What this means is that weekend and later afternoon games will be busier than early afternoon weekday games. In weekday games you will more likely get students stopping in and watching a game on their way to class or back to the dorm. It also means you will see an inconsistent level of fan interaction. The fans who do attend care about the game and are very knowledgeable. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Towsontown Boulevard location of the baseball field. There are a couple of large parking garages nearby, with the Union Garage right behind the stadium. Parking is plentiful, but expect an issue on weekday games. Return on Investment 4 The price, free, is certainly reasonable. And you will probably not have to pay for parking. So, the value is certainly good. The team plays Division I baseball in a very strong athletic conference (Coastal Athletic Association or CAA) so there is an opportunity to see some very strong baseball talent at a low cost. Extras 2 There are free programs at the stadium. There are no other extras at the stadium, but one should walk around the campus of Towson University and see the ever-growing campus. Just don’t forget the older parts of campus, especially the hidden outdoor gem called the Glen. Once hidden after many years of neglect, this wonderful outdoor area has picnic groves and interesting spaces for exploration. Final Thoughts John B. Schuerholz Park is a pretty simple baseball stadium. But the low cost of attendance at a game with a good level of talent means that this baseball stadium is a good value for the fan.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Don Gurney Memorial Rink @ Brant Sports Complex 944 Powerline Road Paris, ON N3L 0B2 Paris Titans website Brant Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 700 From Mounties to Titans Located a stone’s throw from Brantford, Paris, Ontario is a town of 14,000 not unique to Junior C hockey.  Paris has been the home to former NHL coach John Muckler, skier Todd Brooker, hockey legend Syl Apps and Canada’s most famous hockey dad, Walter Gretzky.  The Paris Mounties were founded in 1985 and had a relatively successful run in the various iterations of the confusing landscape that was Junior C hockey.  The Mounties won their league in both 1996 and 2014 and took home the Schmalz Cup as the best Junior C team in the province in 1996.  The Mounties were sold in 2023 to Jon Clark and rebranded as the Paris Titans for the 2023-2024 season. Home for the Titans is at the Brant Sports Complex, located on the edge of town.  Built in 2010, the Brant Sports Complex became the home for the Mounties as they abandoned the Syl Apps Community Centre, which is now an indoor field.   The Brant Sports Complex features two ice rinks and the Don Gurney Memorial Rink is the main ice rink and home to the Titans.  Don Gurney was a local sportsman and is now memorialized in Paris. Food & Beverage 3 Between the two rinks at the Brant Sports Complex, fans will find the concession stand.  Typical arena offerings are found including hot dogs, burgers, fries, chicken fingers, poutine, popcorn, pretzels and candy.  Coca-cola products are the soft drink available as well as coffee, tea and Powerade.  At the north end of the ice surface of the Don Gurney Memorial Rink is the Lafarge Hall which has windows looking out above the ice.  The Paris Titans Social Club is found here and alcoholic beverages are sold in the hall.  Only the hall is licensed and beverages must be consumed inside. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of the Brant Sports Complex is attractive with a low profile from the west.  It is built on a hill so the east entrance provides a grander scale entrance.  The exterior features silver siding with glass and a large “Brant” etched into the siding which can be seen from Powerline Road.  The sign at the west entrance is illuminated a sharp and distinct green.   Entering from the west is the best way to avoid having to traverse stairs, as the east entrance is at ice level, while the west is at seating level.  The two tier lobby is clean and bright.  The lower level entry to the ice pad is marked the Don Gurney Memorial Rink and there are large banners covering the glass during Titans games.  Brant County sports history is displayed on both the upper and lower lobby levels.  The upper level features the Brant Sports Hall of Fame while the lower level features the Wall of Recognition.  It is unclear what the difference really is between the two, however the Wall of Recognition will give treasure hunting fans a couple of nuggets with Syl Apps and John Muckler enshrined.  Outside of the Don Gurney Rink there are also framed jerseys of locals Zac Dalpe who played with the Carolina Hurricanes, and referee Steve Cruikshank. The ticket table is at the upper lobby as well as a merchandise table and a promotions and 50/50 table.  Entry to the seating area is past the concession stand and is right between the two ice pads.  The Don Gurney Rink has five rows of plastic arena seats with plenty of standing room behind.  The seating area is significantly higher than the ice surface, with the lowest row of seating actually higher than the glass.  The ice is oriented north-south and the seating is on the west side, protected entirely by netting.  The north end features Lafarge Hall, which hosts the Paris Titans Social Club, where fans can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages and watch the game from the windowed end.  The south end has a large Paris Titans banner and in the first year of the team, the centre ice logo remains the old Paris Mounties logo.  On the east side hang a variety of youth sports banners as well as the Syl Apps banner which came from Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.  Zac Dalpe also has a 2023 Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Finalist banner.  Paris Mounties achievements are also found on the east side including 1996 and 2014 Championships and the 1996 Junior C Championship. The gameday production at a Paris Titans game is what one would expect from a Junior C hockey experience.  It is fairly simple and promotions include 50/50 and chuck-a-puck.  In an unfortunate circumstance, fans who purchase chuck-a-puck are required to walk to the east side, where the benches are, to throw their pucks on the ice at intermission.  The PA system is very good in the Don Gurney Memorial Rink. Neighbourhood 3 Paris is a small town of under 15,000 in Brant County.  It has been referred to as “The Prettiest Little Town in Canada.”  For a town the size of Paris, it is surprisingly a bit of a Foodie paradise.  There are plenty of spots to try for a pre or post game meal, including Grand Gayou, Paris Pub, Legends Taphouse, Stillwaters, Cobblestone and 2 Rivers.  The Brant Sports Complex is on the edge of town and there is nothing really in the immediate area so a quick trip in the car is necessary. For fans looking for more sporting options, the city of Brantford is just minutes away.  From the Brant Sports Complex, the Brantford Civic Centre, home of the Brantford Bulldogs, is less than 15 minutes away.  The Brantford 99ers play in the OJHL and the summer months finds the Brantford Red Sox taking up residence.  Auto Racing can be found at the Paris Speedway.  For other tourist options, fans should walk through Downtown Paris or check out the Paris Museum.  For fans wishing to stay in Paris, the Arlington Hotel is an option. Fans 2 The Paris Titans averaged between 130 and 260 fans per game.  It appears that Paris is in the bottom third in attendance in the PJHL, so there is plenty of room for improvement.  Fans in attendance are typical Southern Ontario fans, as in fairly quiet who get loud when something big happens. Access 4 Brant Sports Complex is located at the southern tip of Paris, very close to Brantford.  Getting to the Brant Sports Complex is very easy.  It is very close to the confluence of Highways 24 and 403.  If coming from the north, then fans will have to drive through town, but that should not hinder travel very much.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  Unfortunately, there is not public transit in Paris, so fans will be required to drive or take a form of rideshare to the game. Getting around the Brant Sports Complex is easy.  There is a rather large staircase that joins the lower and upper lobbies, but an elevator is available for those with mobility issues and it is probably not necessary to go to the lower lobby if fans are just in and out for the game.  The washrooms are adequate for the size of the facility and crowd. Return on Investment 5 In an era of rising costs for sports experiences, the PJHL remains a bargain.  Tickets for the Paris Titans go for $10.  Concession prices are what one would expect at an arena in the PJHL and there is plenty of free parking on site.  The product on the ice is good and the gameday production, although simple, fits the ambience and the league.  All of these factors go together to produce an experience that provides terrific value for the sporting dollar. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Paris Titans continuing the tradition of Junior C hockey in Paris that was driven by the Paris Mounties. An extra mark for the Titans keeping the same colours as the Mounties. Final Thoughts With the birth of the Paris Titans from the tradition of the Paris Mounties, Junior C hockey in Paris continues to provide a solid experience for hockey fans. Catching a Paris Titans game will satisfy sports fans and bring them to a quaint town with plenty of possibilities.  A worthwhile experience for sure. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 OrthoGeorgia Park at Claude Smith Field 1501 Mercer University Drive Macon, GA 31207 Mercer Bears website OrthoGeorgia Park at Claude Smith Field website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 1,500 Hail to Thee, Mercer University Baseball was the first intercollegiate sport to be played at Mercer University, in the central Georgia city of Macon in 1871. The team would even be led by baseball’s all-time wins leader, Hall of Famer Cy Young, for three spring seasons from 1903 to 1905. “Big Bob” Jones, father of golf legend Bobby Jones, would also star for Mercer just before this time. The university suspended their sports programs in 1942 as the United States entered World War II the previous year. Athletics would not resume until 1948. Mercer would see baseball return under the leadership of head coach Claude Smith, the field’s namesake. Originally members of the Dixie Conference, Mercer would join eight other colleges throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee in the league. Following the 1952 season would see the Dixie Conference fold and Mercer play as an independent team, until the formation of the Trans America Athletic Conference in 1978, which would later become the Atlantic Sun Conference. Following 36 years in the TAAC/A-Sun, Mercer would finally move to the Sothern Conference, where they have been members since 2015. Food & Beverage   3 Fans at OrthoGeorgia Park have a variety of concession options to choose from. Positioned at the end of the third base concourse is a tent dedicated to the local chicken franchise, Zaxby's. Here, fans can find premade meals featuring chicken tender sandwiches with a selection of sauces, alongside chips, cookies, and a choice of Coca-Cola products or lemonade. For those seeking more traditional fare, a concession stand is part of the brick building along the first base line. This stand offers hot dogs, nachos, chips, and candy. Additionally, patrons can enjoy classic options like popcorn and peanuts. In terms of beverages, the concession stands provide selections from the Coca-Cola family of soft drinks, with Powerade and Dasani water also available. Craft beer aficionados can indulge in offerings from the local Macon brewery, Fall Line Brewing Company, located as part of the Bear Wear souvenir shop situated along the third base line. Atmosphere   4 Upon approaching the front entrance to OrthoGeorgia Park, fans are greeted by a quaint, arched brick entryway leading directly to the concourse. The grandstand runs even with third base, around to first base, and extends five rows deep. The majority of the seating consists of aluminum bleachers with back support. However, a small section of individual chairback seats is situated behind home plate. High-top tables and drink rails occupy the spaces between the press box structure and facilities on either side, the latter housing restrooms, an apparel shop, and a concession stand; suite-style seating bookends both sides of the press box. While there is not a designated outfield seating area, a tiered hillside extends from the right field side of the batter’s eye to the foul pole, often filled with fans lounging in lawn chairs. The scoreboard displays inning-by-inning line scores, run-hit-error totals, and the current count on the batter. A small video screen at the center of the scoreboard typically showcases team logos and advertising graphics. Game presentation is straightforward yet engaging, with mid-inning breaks often featuring games hosted by an emcee or a series of advertisements. These activities do well at engaging fans, while not distracting from the game. Considering the challenging sun field, especially for spectators behind home plate and up the third base line, seating along the first baseline offers some relief from direct sunlight. Additionally, a few high-top tables with attached seating and drink rails along the concourse provide shaded areas that are popular among fans. Neighborhood   4 OrthoGeorgia Park is situated within the athletics cluster alongside Five Star Stadium, just beyond the right field wall, with Hawkins Arena positioned up the hill behind home plate. Despite its location in a city of over 150,000, Mercer University retains a distinct college town ambiance. Downtown Macon is adorned with Mercer Bears banners on many of its light posts, and features numerous billboards promoting Mercer athletics. On campus, fans have two main areas to grab a meal or drink during their visit. Mercer Village, a small area just off campus, offers a variety of food options including Margaritas Mexican Grille, JAG’s Pizzeria, Nu-Way Wieners, and Francar’s Buffalo Wings. Just south of campus, within a half-mile radius of OrthoGeorgia Park, fans can find Amici Pizza and the Library Taphouse. Mercer’s campus is also approximately 6 miles from downtown Macon, which boasts a wide array of entertainment and dining options for visitors. Fans   4 When trying to quantify the fan support Mercer baseball receives, it can be difficult to put an exact figure on it. While NCAA statistics report an average attendance of just under 600 fans per game, this number doesn't fully reflect the additional nearly 100 spectators who watch from the hillside beyond the right field fence. Mercer baseball fans are characterized by their supportive yet laid-back attitude – while they may express vocal reactions, especially to questionable calls, they tend to foster a welcoming atmosphere rather than an intimidating one for visiting teams. In essence, Mercer baseball fans can best be described as "pleasant". Access   4 Situated less than a half mile from Interstate-75, accessing the Mercer campus is rather straightforward. The parking lot is conveniently located just beyond the outfield fence, requiring only a short walk to reach the front entrance of OrthoGeorgia Park. The box office and main gate are positioned at the home plate entrance, with a secondary entry available on the third base side of the stadium. Both entry points lead to a well-marked concourse that runs along the top of the seating area, making navigation easy for visitors. Return on Investment   5 While some teams in the SoCon offer free admission to baseball games, Mercer charges fans for entry. Tickets start at $8 for bleacher seats and $10 for individual chairback seats behind home plate. However, fans have the option to sit beyond the right field wall at no cost. Additionally, the absence of a parking fee adds to the affordability of attending Mercer baseball games. Making the experience even more enjoyable, concession prices for the stadium staples are kept refreshingly low. Extras   4 During the early innings of the game, Mercer’s mascot duo, Toby and Tot, make their rounds throughout the stadium, engaging with fans and posing for photos with those who approach them. At the home plate entry, visitors are greeted with pride, as championship trophies from Mercer’s time in the Southern Conference, as well as its tenure in the Trans America Athletic Conference, are prominently displayed. Possibly the pride of Mercer baseball, 2016 Golden Spikes Award Winner Kyle Lewis is honored with a display in the entry leading to the concourse, as well as with a banner hanging on the outfield wall under the scoreboard. Banners hung from the brick wall in foul territory down the right field line recognize the four NCAA baseball tournaments the Bears have played in, while a second collection of banners on display beyond the left center field wall celebrate the five SoCon championships won by the Bears. Final Thoughts Baseball at Mercer is enough to keep fans entertained throughout the game, without the feeling of being overwhelmed with sound effects or over the top mascot skits that take away from the entertainment of the game itself. OrthoGeorgia Park at Claude Smith Field has a rather laid-back atmosphere that provides fans with different options for enjoying college baseball – either remaining outside to take in the game via more of a tailgating atmosphere, or more traditionally watching the game from the comfort of a stadium seat. The coming years will see the addition of coaching accommodations and a player development center down the left field line. The facility upgrades will add to the ambiance of an already quaint college baseball facility, which provides fans with a positive college baseball experience.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy Duluth, GA 30097 Atlanta Vibe website Gas South Arena website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 13,000 A......T......L! 2023 saw the three largest attended games in NCAA volleyball history, with the NCAA semi-finals and finals drawing more than 19,000 to Amalie Arena in Tampa, while the well-publicized matchup between Omaha and Nebraska filled the Huskers’ 92,000-seat Memorial Stadium. The popularity of volleyball has been growing nationwide – Sportico writes that volleyball is the most popular sport among high school girls, and overall participation is up 9%. With the growth of participation in volleyball in recent years, it should not come as much of a surprise that the formation of professional volleyball leagues has started to blossom around the U.S. The first of those nationwide leagues to get off the ground is the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF), with seven teams nationwide in their inaugural season, and plans to expand to ten teams for the 2025 season. Metro Atlanta’s entry in the PVF, the Atlanta Vibe, found a home at the well-used Gas South Arena in the suburb of Duluth, in Gwinnett County, to the northeast of downtown Atlanta. Food & Beverage   4 Gas South Arena doesn’t have traditional-style concession stands that run around the concourse, but rather food courts with a handful of different tastes. With attendance numbers a bit on the light side for weekday games, concessions may only be partially open depending on the size of the crowd. Despite concessions not being fully open (at least not during my most recent weekday visit), there is still a full menu of options including hot dogs, burgers, grilled and spicy chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, and fries. Slices from local pizzeria, Johnny’s Pizza, are also available, and their popular garlic knots are also on the menu. Growing in popularity in recent years, Gas South Arena makes use of the self-serve market where fans “shop” for food and beverages to bring to the checkout, before taking them back to their seats. Gas South Arena serves Coca-Cola products, along with Powerade, Dasani bottled water, and Monster energy drinks.  There are also full-service bars on both sides of the arena serving beer, seltzers, wine, handmade and pre-mixed drinks, and drafts. Classic City Lager and the highly regarded Tropicalia from Athens-based brewery, Creature Comforts, are also available. Atmosphere   3 Built in 2003, Gas South Arena has remained architecturally modern with its use of curves and large amounts of glass. Despite being over 20 years old, it still feels rather esthetically current compared to newer facilities. Fans have several seating options, from the traditional individual seats in the lower bowl to the courtside and floor seating. One interesting take on seating is the groups of living room sectionals near the end of the floor – at first thought, the idea of sectional sofas as seating might seem a bit odd, but with eight large pieces, it does give fans a comfortable option for seating, while helping to fill the large void of space at one end of the floor. Atlanta Vibe matches are a very interactive experience. From the microphone-toting in-game host and accompanying promotional team members celebrating every point as if it were a match point, the staff does a great job getting the fans excited and amped up in support of the Vibe. Also, tossing t-shirts into the crowd and dancing throughout breaks in the action are very popular with many younger fans in the stands. The interactive nature of the match does not begin and end following each point. Rather, throughout the volley fans call out “A.T.L.” each time the ball is sent over the net, and fans are ready to start over again if it returns. Despite a very vibrant atmosphere created by the fans and hype squad, the 13,000-seat Gas South Arena is a rather large venue that easily swallows up much of the excitement. Some matches draw over 5,000 fans, but that still leaves more than half of the arena empty. Neighborhood   4 Gas South Arena is in the ever-developing Gas South District of the Sugarloaf neighborhood in Gwinnett County. The area is a bit of a transition point between a heavily commercial area with office buildings, shops, and restaurants next to residential subdivisions. Gas South Convention Center is also part of the Gas South District. There are three hotels on the arena’s property; Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn, and the newly opened Westin. The Sugarloaf area has been well developed over the years and offers many other accommodations as well. In the early 2000s, Gwinnett County prioritized building venues for national acts and professional sports. Not only do the Atlanta Gladiators of the ECHL and the Georgia Swarm of the National Lacrosse League share Gas South Arena with the Vibe, but AAA affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, the Gwinnett Stripers, play at Coolray Field less than 10 miles north along Interstate-85. This all gives Gwinnett County a heavy concentration of professional sports. Fans   4 The Vibe are roughly near the middle of the pack when it comes to average attendance, which hovers around 3,700 fans per game. This is not a small gathering, but given the 13,000 seats in Gas South Arena, the size of the arena doesn’t do the crowd justice. A large portion of the fan base is comprised of the next generation of volleyball stars, who hang on to every point ready to explode into celebration. Much of the credit for the passion in the atmosphere needs to be given to this group of fans, as they are very responsive to calls from the hype squad to get excited. Access   3 With its location in central Gwinnett County, a northeast suburb of Atlanta, weekday matches can be rather challenging to get to. Rush hour traffic can add nearly 30 to 45 minutes to the trip, for those coming from the downtown area or other northern suburbs. Parking is available in the lot in front of the arena or the garage next to it. Most fans will enter the arena through the main entrance into a two-tiered lobby, which has a wrap-around concourse fans use to access their seats. The lower seating bowl is easily accessible and has manageable sloped aisles to navigate. Return on Investment   3 Tickets start at $13, but there is no avoiding the dastardly Ticketmaster fees. A $13 ticket quickly becomes a $20 purchase, even when you buy in person. When adding $10 for parking, fans are looking at nearly $30 just to get in the door. Ticketmaster fees, even when purchasing in person at the box office before the match, put a bit of a damper on a well-priced ticket pretty quickly. It is not an issue created by the Vibe, as a $13 ticket is reasonable for a new league working to grab a piece of the professional sports market in Atlanta. However, these fees are a major issue driving up the ticket price for what is otherwise an overall affordable experience. Extras   3 In bringing professional volleyball to the metro Atlanta area, not enough can be said about the amount of work the Vibe organization and its players have put into promoting both the game and their team. During virtually every festival and opportunity to be seen in the community, the Vibe has taken advantage. Following the game, a handful of players are made available for autographs and photos with fans. This small investment of time following the game goes a long way in establishing the players as role models for younger fans with volleyball dreams of their own. In yet another route to reaching out to the volleyball community of metro Atlanta, the Atlanta Vibe also holds a Junior Vibe volleyball academy in the summer, which again shows the organization’s dedication to being the face of the volleyball community in the area. Final Thoughts With the popularity of volleyball at an all-time high, the formation of the Pro Volleyball Federation comes at the perfect time.  Atlanta is one of two markets that will be home to both the PVF, as well as the competing professional volleyball league, League One Volleyball (LOVB) – the other being Omaha, starting in time for the 2025 season. The Atlanta Vibe does a great job at creating a fun atmosphere to complement their high level of volleyball talent on the floor. Match atmospheres are engaging, fans are responsive, and the team gives back to the local volleyball scene, creating a love for the organization. This seems to be the perfect recipe for a team to endear themselves to the community they represent.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey The NCAA Men’s College Basketball Tournament, better known as March Madness, returned to Dallas, Texas in March 2024. The games were played at the American Airlines Center, home of the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars. The American Airlines Center is not new to the NCAA basketball tournament, as just last season, the NCAA Women’s Final Four was played at the site. This year, the Dallas venue hosted the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight portions of the South Regional. The Sweet Sixteen portion was played on Friday, March 29th, where a single ticket allowed you to watch both games. The first game that night was the # 2 seeded Marquette Golden Eagles, from the Big East, versus a Cinderella story in the making, in the # 11 seeded North Carolina State Wolfpack, representing the Atlantic Coast Conference – the Wolfpack entered this season’s tournament on an unforeseen run by winning the ACC championship. Although the attendance for this match up was announced at 18,751, the crowd was more like 9,000, with a lot of the seats empty for most of the game. The Marquette and NC State fans, however, filled their portions of the arena, and were loud and kept the energy in the building. NC State started fast and was up 20-10 at one point, though Marquette keep fighting back to make the game interesting, but never did take a lead in the game; the Wolfpack advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1986, by knocking off # 2 Marquette 67-58. The nightcap featured the # 1 seed Houston Cougars, from the host Big 12 conference, versus the # 4 seed Duke Blue Devils, and the American Airlines Center filled up to capacity for this matchup. The Houston fans traveled 4 hours along I-45 in hopes that this would be their year, with their Houston Cougars returning to the Final Four. Meanwhile the Duke fans came from all over, as Duke is one of the most popular teams in college basketball. Houston started out with an 8-0 run, and looked dominant, until an unfortunate 4-degree ankle sprain injury to Houston’s All-American point guard Jamal Snead, in the first half with 6:38 remaining, with Houston leading 16-10 at the time. After Snead left, the Duke Blue Devils saw and took the opportunity – Duke went into halftime with a 1-point lead. Houston’s defense kept the game close in the second half but looked lost at times without Snead on the floor, the result being a Duke 54-51 victory. The evening’s results set up an all-ACC Elite Eight game on Easter Sunday, March 31st. Houston’s loss had me wondering how the atmosphere and attendance would be for the Elite Eight game. Usually the higher seed fans, such as Houston in this case, leave town after the loss, meaning a less than filled arena for the next game. However, the NC State fans returned, the Duke fans multiplied, and other fans who just wanted to see a great matchup showed up; all three groups combined to come out and fill the arena. In fact, according to one source this game was the most watched Elite Eight game in the past 5 years. The teams put on a display of talent and heart during the game. Duke took the first half lead 27-21, after keeping NC State’s DJ Burns on the bench with early foul trouble. The second half was the DJ Burns, DJ Horne, and Wolfpack show, however, as the Wolfpack offense seemed to score at will, while the defense made stop after stop and forced Duke’s star Kyle Filipowski to foul out of the game. NC State’s Cinderella story thus continued, as NC State knocked off Duke 76-64. NC State’s storied run in this year’s tournament is drawing comparisons to one their own greatest March Madness runs, when the 1983 NC State Wolfpack won the National Championship against Houston’s Clyde Drexler and Hakeem Olajuwon’s phi slamma jamma squad, which is the last time an NC State team has gone to the Final Four. The road ends this weekend in Phoenix’s State Farm Stadium; the Dallas winner is scheduled to play the Midwest region top seed Purdue Boilermakers from the Big Ten Conference, while the other game will be top ranked Connecticut vs Alabama. Will NC State’s Cinderella story continue? I, myself, can only hope after watching them in Dallas – the odds are against them, but then again, the NCAA tournament is called March Madness for a reason.