Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey, and McDaniel College Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Kenneth R. Gill Stadium 99 Stadium Dr Westminster, MD 21157 Green Terror website Kenneth R. Gill Stadium website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 1,434 Home of the Green Terror McDaniel College is a private four-year liberal arts college in Westminster, Maryland. It was established in 1867 and until 2002 was known as Western Maryland College. The name of the college did not reflect the geographic placement of the school as it is not located in the western part of the state. Instead, it was named for the Western Maryland Railroad, which shared some common board members. The new name of the college honored alumnus William Roberts McDaniel and his 65-year association with the school. Westminster is located 30 miles northwest of Baltimore and is a far suburb of that city. Over 160,000 people live in the area and the surrounding area of Carroll County, Maryland. The unique Green Terror’s name stems from how teams would describe the Western Maryland players as “Terrors” on the football field. The name stuck, and since 192,3 they have been known as the Green Terror. McDaniel College plays as a member of the Division III Centennial Conference against schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Ursinus College, and Franklin & Marshall College. The fields of McDaniel College/Western Maryland College were also the summer training camp of the Baltimore Ravens until the 2011 season when the team chose to relocate spring training to their main Owings Mills, Maryland facility. The old Baltimore Colts had also used the college as a training ground for many years. Food & Beverage 0 There is one single concession stand located behind the new grandstand. It is not often open for field hockey games. Atmosphere 2 The football stadium, which is fairly small, is still too big for field hockey games. There is not much atmosphere beyond the PA announcer. The new stands are very nice. There are some seats with seatbacks, but the rest are simple bench-type seating, although there is a large amount of legroom, which is nice. There is a small concourse under the grandstands houses that small concession stand and some history of the school and its athletic programs. The only other issue is that the track that surrounds the football field keeps the fans a bit away from the game action. There is a nice scoreboard on the south end of the field. Neighborhood 4 Westminster, being a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a pretty traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located nearby to campus and is one of the best family-type restaurants around, and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices, such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 3 There is usually a small crowd attending field hockey games. It is mainly friends and families of the athletes. Access 4 The parking can be a bit tight as it is a small college, and there are only so many places to park. Parking is free, although you can choose to pay $10 for close parking, as well as pay for tailgate spots. Westminster is a small town, so large crowds can easily overwhelm the streets around the school. Pla,n and it won’t be a large issue. Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster, and it stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. Return on Investment 5 There is no cost to attend Green Terror field hockey games. Extras 2 The Western Maryland Railroad caboose is located next to the playing field. The iconic piece of memorabilia just looks cool and can be a great meeting place for friends. Also, make sure to take some time to view the plaques about the school’s athletic history located in the stadium concourse. Final Thoughts McDaniel College is a great place to watch a game, tailgate with some friends, and soak in some local athletic history, all in the same great location.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 London Major Appliances Rink @ Western Fair Sports Centre 865 Florence St, London, ON N5W 6G6 London Nationals website Western Fair Sports Centre website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity : 1,500 __________________________________________________________________________________ Back on Track With the 2025 season, the London Nationals of the Greater Ontario Hockey League presented a bit of an identity refresh.  The Nationals were founded in 1950 as part of the Big 10 Western Division.  They played in Ontario Arena on the grounds of Western Fair.  The Nationals began as the London Lou Ball Juniors, named after the sponsor, Lou Ball Clothes.  In 1961, the team was renamed the Nationals after the railway company CN Rail.  In 1963, the team became one of the junior affiliates of the Toronto Maple Leafs.  This version of the Nationals would end up becoming the modern-day London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League.  With the Knights moving to the Junior A level, the Junior B Nationals moved to Ingersoll for a year.  They returned to London and played under a number of different monikers until returning to the Nationals name in 1991.  During the majority of this time, the Nationals used the familiar logo of the Toronto Maple Leafs with the famous blue and white.  As of 2025, the Nationals have retired the maple leaf in favour of a train-themed logo and red and black, a nod to their CN rail ties, which were the origin of their name.  The Nationals are currently owned by Dean and Brenda Pomerleau. The Nationals left Western Fair and Ontario Arena in 1963.  After playing in the London Gardens and a few other spots, the Nationals returned to Western Fair in 2006.  Western Fair District Sports Centre was built in 2001 and includes 4 ice surfaces.  The Sports Centre is part of a rethinking of the Western Fair District to act more as a physical area for year-round activities rather than the location of the annual 9-day Western Fair.  The main rink is sponsored by London Major Appliances Service and is Olympic-sized with a capacity of 1,500. Food & Beverage 4 The main lobby of the Western Fair Sports Centre, connecting the four ice pads, is where the main concession stand is found.  Pizza Pizza is prominent, and a variety of pizza slices, as well as chicken and fries, are available.  Other traditional concession options are also available, including hot dogs, burgers, wraps, popcorn, candy, and chocolate.  Coca-Cola products are available, as well as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and slushies.  Beer is also available at this stand.  Also in this area is Deke’s, a full-service bar and restaurant, a unique feature for a GOHL venue. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of the Western Fair Sports Centre is nondescript but not unattractive.  Light trim with brown brick gives the main entrance the look of a Pro Hockey Life store.  Large windows allow natural light into the atrium on entry, and the new Nationals logo is displayed prominently over one of the windows.  Entry into the Sports Centre brings fans right to the doors of the London Major Appliances Rink and the pro shop.  This is not where fans will enter the arena, as they are required to head up the ramp to the main lobby, central to all four ice pads. The lobby does not offer much in the way of interesting artifacts or anything, but it is bright and clean.  The ticket table and ticket takers are at the entrance to the London Major Appliances Rink, where fans can enter the arena.  The ice surface is east-west oriented, with the best spot for a centre ice logo picture from the north.  As of this writing, the logo at centre ice was still the Maple Leaf.  Entry to the rink is at the southwest corner, behind the seating.   The Nationals hang retired number banners for Tom Cardiff, Patrick Dobie, Taylor Edwards, Scott Lombardi, Max Vingradov, and Aaron Dartch.  Championship banners hang on the northwest side with the 2013 Sutherland Cup Championship as the highlight.  Also of note is the large Drew Doughty banner hanging on the southeast corner wall, acknowledging Doughty coming up through the London Jr Knights program.  The seating in the London Major Appliances Rink is a horseshoe with the east wall open.  This limits the ability for a 360-degree travel on the walkway behind the seats.  Seating consists of 7 rows of plastic, blue arena seats. The gameday production at a London Nationals is not uncommon for the GOHL.  Promotions include the 50/50 draw and a minor hockey game during intermission.  The mascot, Lou the Bear, takes part in the pregame ceremonies.  Lou is a nod to the original name of the Nationals, the London Lou Ball Juniors.  Truck horns blare after a Nationals goal, which may be a bit startling after the first one.  Although the speaker system is decent, it can be difficult to understand announcements at times. Neighbourhood 4 The Sports Centre is located on the grounds of Western Fair District in the Old East Village neighbourhood of London.  The north end of Western Fair is Dundas Street which has a number of options for food and drink.  These include Momo’s, Lana’s Place, Byrne Eats, Edgar & Joe’s, Willie’s Cafe, London Burgers and Powerhouse Brewing Co.  Match Eatery and Public House located in the casino is a good choice.  Western Fair District has other entertainment options including the Raceway @ Western Fair, Western Fair Market and Gateway Casino.  Other options in the area include the London Children’s Museum and Royal Canadian Regiment Museum.  There are also plenty of sporting options in London.  The London Knights  of the OHL are the crown jewel of the city.  Western University fields a full complement of athletic teams that are always very competitive, most notably Western Mustangs football , hockey  and basketball .  The London Lightning play in the Basketball Super League and London Majors  play in the IBL at historic Labatt Memorial Park.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Hard Rock Hotel, Residence Inn and Double Tree are all good options that are close. Fans 3 In the 2024-25 season the London Nationals averaged almost 390 fans per game.  This ranked them 14th in the 23 team GOHL.  This is a decent showing, however there is plenty of room for improvement.  The game that was reviewed, which was the 2025-26 home opener, had 443 fans in attendance.  Fans are knowledgeable and into the game and although not over the top are solid hockey fans.   Access 4 The Western Fair Sports Centre is located on the grounds of Western Fair District in the Old East Village neighbourhood of London.  It is 7km north of Highway 401, so fans will have to do a bit of driving through London to get there.  The main roads that run north from the highway are large and traffic should not be an issue.  There is plenty of parking on site.  For fans who wish to take public transit, there are London Transit stops at Western Fair.  Fans should consult the London Transit  website for fares, maps and schedules.  Getting around the Sports Centre is not difficult.  There are ramps that go from the main entry up to the lobby between the four ice pads.  The lack of 360 degree movement around the ice is unfortunate.  Cash or cards are welcome for ticket and concession purchases.  The washroom facilities are good for this venue. Return on Investment 4 London Nationals tickets are $13 for General Admission adults.  For full service club seats it is $20.  Tickets are available online, which is not too common for the GOHL.  Club seating is a unique feature to the GOJHL which offers food and drink delivered directly to the seat and orders taken by servers at the seat as well.  There does not appear to be any discount for students or children.  Parking is free on site and concession prices are okay.  The arena is comfortable and the product on the ice is solid.  Overall, there is a strong ROI for Nationals hockey. Extras 4 An extra mark for the Western Fair District, which is a great, unique area for GOJHL hockey. An extra mark for Western Fair Sports Centre as a community hub. An extra mark for the long history of the London Nationals. An extra mark for the very unique Club seating for the London Nationals. Final Thoughts With the rebrand of the London Nationals complete and the season in full swing it is clear that the Nationals offer a solid product.  The Western Fair Sports Centre is a clean and comfortable venue that is a good home for Junior B hockey.  With the Nationals back on track, hockey fans should take in a game at Western Fair. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Segra Park 1640 Freed St. Columbia, SC 29201 Columbia Fireflies website Segra Park website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 9,077 Segra Park – Columbia Fireflies Professional baseball would make a return to the South Carolina capital in 2016 when the Savannah Sand Gnats would leave coastal Georgia for a newly built stadium in Columbia. The city had gone without professional baseball for over a decade following the relocation of the Capital City Bombers to Greenville. Initially, the South Atlantic League Class A affiliate of the New York Mets , the Columbia Fireflies garnered national attention when former University of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow began his professional baseball career with the Fireflies. Tebow’s presence in Columbia went a long way in boosting the attendance numbers in 2017. The 2021 restructuring of minor league baseball saw changes for the Fireflies – not only did their affiliation change from the Mets to the Kansas City Royals , but they also moved from the South Atlantic League to the Carolina League but would remain a Class A affiliate. Despite the change in leagues and affiliates, the Fireflies have done well in drawing fans and putting on an entertaining game experience since their inception in 2016 through today. Food & Beverage 4 Concession stands at Segra Park are what would be expected at most typical sports venues; hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, pretzels, fries, and candy are all abundantly available. The pimento cheese sandwich, or adding the southern classic to a hamburger, does add a bit of a local touch to the concessions menu. In addition, each home stand does feature a specialty hot dog related to the visiting team. While the traditional concession stands provide just about all fans might want when it comes to food, the real gems are in the carts around the concourse – the food carts serve up fried snacks, Philly-style steak, barbecue, burritos, and even healthy options by way of salads, wraps, and hummus plates. Segra Park does offer a full line of Pepsi products, as well as Gatorade. Fans looking to grab adult beverages for an outing to the ballpark have Coors and Bud products to choose from, local craft brewer River Rat Brewery, and a handful of other regional craft and craft-type beers. Wine, seltzers, hard ciders, and mixed drinks are also available at several locations around the ballpark. Concession prices on the whole are not astronomically priced; specialty items that are found at the food carts do come at more of a premium price, but nothing costs more than the $15 beef brisket plate. The key to finding the best food available is to not limit yourself to the traditional concession stands. Though there are pimento cheese options there, the real treasures are in the carts around the concourse. Atmosphere 4 The gathering of Palmetto trees and multi-tiered stairs guide fans to the stadium's main entry point and give off a warm feel of southern hospitality. The front of the stadium is very welcoming, and the combination of brick and large arched windows, combined with the iron gates, is a nice mix of classic and modern stadium design. Fans have a full, uninterrupted 360-degree concourse to navigate around the stadium. The open concourse provides views of the action on the field no matter if fans run to grab a bite to eat, need a trip to the restroom, or just want to get up and walk the stadium for an inning or two. Segra Park’s outfield wall itself plays into the excitement of the game – at just 319’ left field can be a home run haven, but is made more challenging with a high wall. The height drops down 7 to 8 feet in places, making home run-saving catches a real possibility. The angles and outcrops can also create unpredictable carroms. In dead center field, the wall steeply angles up and back on both sides, making the area ripe for triples. The Fireflies in-game entertainment team does an excellent job engaging fans throughout the evening with their use of sound effects as a sort of commentary on the game. They are also tuned in to what sound effects fans are responding to and use those as long as they are getting a response. Though some clever sound effects can quickly become annoying through repeated use, the Fireflies have found a nice balance in not overusing something to the point it becomes stale. Mid-inning contests see some new takes on old favorites like the dizzy bat race, now using impaired vision goggles, but pieces like the air guitar contest, flex cam, and guess the attendance are common at many parks around the country. Segra Park’s traditional seating area is relatively small compared to most stadiums its size; fold-down seats run twenty rows deep from the cut of the outfield grass on the third baseline, to midway up the right field line. What is lost in the typical stadium seating is more than made up for in specialty areas that are comprised of mostly social group seating. For example, high-top tables with high-backed barstools and shorter outdoor dining-style tables make up the Bullpen Boxes down the left field line, while the right field line has several picnic-style tables in the Picnic Pavilion. There are two separate areas of berm seating, one in left-center and a second in right field, that combine a grass embankment with an area of amphitheater-style tiers. Berm seats are always going to provide excellent value and, given the low prices, you do not feel you are missing out on the experience of the game if you decide to venture out and explore the stadium a bit. Given the affordability of ticket prices though, upgrading to any of the seats from dugout to dugout will only set you back anywhere from $13 to $15 max, so these seats are terrific options, also. Neighborhood 4 Segra Park was built on the grounds of the former South Carolina State Hospital. Opened in 1828, a handful of the historic buildings on the grounds have been preserved and repurposed into office spaces, businesses, and residences. The centerpiece, the Babcock Building, served as a mental health hospital from as early as 1885 through the early 1990s, but today has been converted to apartments. Along with the historical buildings that have remained, new construction has also started to pop up around the stadium from local, regional, and national businesses – familiar names such as REI and Starbucks have opened stores. In addition, Iron Hill Brewery and Mexican fusion restaurant Publico, which are just steps from the front gates of Segra Park, add to the culinary and beer options in the district. Even though it has taken some time to get to where it is today, the BullStreet District has been beautifully developed into an area that can easily attract fans to enjoy it long before the game’s first pitch. If in Columbia for an early season game, a visit to Founders Park for the often nationally ranked University of South Carolina Gamecocks could be planned, or summer trips could be paired with the Lexington County Blowfish of the Coastal Plains League. Fans 4 The Fireflies' first two seasons were a bit of an anomaly when it comes to analyzing attendance numbers; the return of baseball and a new park after such a long absence, plus a season with Tim Tebow significantly boosted attendance numbers. Today, average attendance sits at just over 3,000 fans per game, putting Columbia in the middle of the pack for Carolina League teams. Fans in Columbia do a fantastic job staying involved with both the action on the field and with the stadium entertainment team, which engages them with several call-and-respond prompts throughout the game. Access 4 Columbia is located at the junction of several interstate highways; I-20, I-26, and I-77 all feed directly into the city, and I-95 is not much of a side trip away either. This all makes Segra Park an excellent part of a baseball road trip, with its accessibility to major highways. The parking deck on nearby Freed Street provides parking for just $7. Alternatively, those showing up early enough might be able to grab one of the spots on the streets surrounding the ballpark, but the parking lots of residents and businesses in the area are not open. Any of the parking options at Segra Park will leave fans with only a short walk to the stadium. Lines to get into the stadium can be a bit long for Friday and Saturday night games, but after the initial rush when gates open, there is not much of a wait. Once in the stadium, the concourse is generously wide, especially once leaving the cover of the grandstand. There is plenty of space for fans to move about, so there does not tend to be much trouble getting around the stadium or to the seats. Return on Investment 5 You would be hard-pressed to find better ticket prices in Minor League Baseball than those offered at Segra Park – it is not just the price, but how close to the action on the field you can get for what you are paying. Ticket prices do increase by $2 the day of the game, so plan to avoid the dreaded day-of price hike. You will still pay the extra $2 for each ticket by way of a service fee if ordering tickets online, so there is no avoiding the price hike unless possibly buy tickets through the box office ahead of time. With some free parking and reasonable rates for the parking garage, to go along with affordable concession prices, fans are getting their money's worth at Segra Park. For those in the Columbia area, the Neighborhood Pass allows unlimited games for $25 per month. This might be a good way to get the most out of your baseball dollar if looking to attend several games in a month. Extras 4 The Fireflies do a fantastic job recognizing the history of baseball in Columbia. The club level and outfield concourse features photos and information on Columbia’s minor league teams and the stars who have passed through on their way to major league stardom and Hall of Fame status. Columbia was one of the first teams in minor league baseball to use neon as one of their primary colors. The glow of the team’s neon green with its navy blue and gray accents is a nice combination that does not leave the feeling of slow-pitch softball uniforms. Segra Park has a 1/3-mile walking/running loop which is open to the public daily from 7 a.m. until dark, unless there are ticketed events or baseball games, in which case the loop closes 3-4 hours beforehand. The BullStreet District goes a long way in creating more of a game day feel to the area, which will continue to improve as the district fills out. Final Thoughts The Columbia Fireflies have done a wonderful job building an experience that offers fans what they want from a stadium; those wanting a more traditional baseball game have plenty of seats to choose from in the grandstand, whereas fans wanting to use the game as more of a social backdrop to their evening have both a considerable number of field level table boxes or the Bowtie Bar in center field. Segra Park is a beautiful facility that provides multiple experiences for what fans might want out of their visit to the ballpark. In addition, the BullStreet District that continues to grow around the stadium just adds to what Segra Park has to offer.

BBQ Beef Sandwich, Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers If you’re catching a game at Dodger Stadium this week, bring your appetite; the Dodgers and Levy, their longtime food and beverage partner, are serving up a new postseason menu as big as October baseball. For the Wild Card Series against the Cincinnati Reds, fans can dig into a fresh lineup of daring creations designed to match the high-stakes atmosphere on the field. Leading off the order is the Pistachio Cream Funnel Cake, a sweet twist to balance the heavy hitters that follow. The new Big Crunch taco lineup—featuring the Big Crunch, Double Big Crunch, and the fiery Flamin’ Big Crunch—puts a ballpark spin on a classic. The Flamin’ Big Crunch is a 10-inch hard shell beef taco packed with cheese sauce and pickled jalapeños, topped off with a crunchy layer of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Big Crunch taco lineup, Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers Barbecue lovers can head to Think Blue BBQ in Left Field Plaza, where the Mega BBQ Platter promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Loaded with jalapeño cheddar sausage, smoky pork, al pastor spareribs, and crispy chicharrón, it’s built for fans with a big appetite. The Chick-e-chirri Sandwich, a showstopper featuring cornflake-crusted fried chicken, Chimichurri, Tajín aioli, smashed avocado, cucumber salad, and arugula, all tucked into a Dodger logo-branded bun. You’ll find it at Elysian Park Grill (Field Level Section 23, Top Deck Section 4). For a more traditional bite, there’s the new BBQ Beef Sandwich, while those looking to pair the action with a drink can try the Agua Chile Beer Bucket, available at Hornitos Cantina (Right Field Plaza), Craft Corner (Loge Section 165), and Jinro (Reserve Section 5). With flavors ranging from fiery to sweet, Dodger Stadium’s playoff menu gives fans another reason to cheer—no matter what the scoreboard says. Pistachio Cream Funnel Cake , Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall 1001 E 17th St. Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 17,222 Hoo-Hoo-Hoosiers! On October 14, 2016, the Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall hosted its first game after 18 months of extensive renovations to one of the college’s most iconic venues. The generous $40 million donation from Sydney Simon Skjodt improved the game experience for fans, students, and student-athletes but preserved the tradition of the arena. When fans entered the building, they noticed wider concourses and walkways, escalators providing access to the revamped concourses with more restrooms and concession stands, and tables to add mustard to your hot dog or pretzel. Seat backs and chairs were replaced and are now all red and white, and a new vibrant scoreboard hung from the center of the court. Assembly Hall has been the home to Indiana University basketball since 1971 and has hosted more than 12 million fans. Most of its 17,222 seats are on either side of the court, creating one of the greatest home-court advantages in college basketball. The seating was designed as two audiences facing one another and to accommodate non-basketball events at the arena, making it one of the instantly recognizable sporting venues in the country. The facility has a modern, aesthetically pleasing design from its exterior, one that promotes progress and blends in well with the IU campus scenery. The opening of the venue coincided with the debut of head coach Bobby Knight, who would lead the Hoosiers to three NCAA championships (1976, 1981, and 1987) during his 29-year seasons in Bloomington, perhaps forever linking the two iconic institutions. Food & Beverage 4 The concession area has improved greatly since the renovations, offering LED menu screens and very affordable prices. Beer sales debuted during the 2022-2023 season at all basketball games for both men and women—cashless payments for all concession purchases at Assembly Hall. The concession windows now have six stands instead of the previous four before renovations. Before heading to your seat, there is plenty of room to put down your food to add toppings to your dogs, nachos, wings, or fries. The items include nachos, French fries, Hoosier dog, pretzels, and 32-ounce Coca-Cola products. Papa John’s Pizza, Polish sausages, footlong hot dogs, and boneless chicken wings are also available. There also appear to be daily specials that feature a giant bucket of popcorn for just $5 during our visit to the arena. BuffaloLouie’s is a local institution known for its chicken wings.  Fans can enjoy other items, including chicken tenders, pork tenderloin, and Italian beef sandwiches. Atmosphere 5 Assembly Hall is quite an experience, highlighted by the recent renovations. The crown jewel is the south entrance, where visitors are greeted by bronze statues of former IU greats from Steve Alford, Bill Garrett, Isiah Thomas, Everett Dean, and members of the 1976 Undefeated NCAA championship team. Interactive screens allow fans to learn about players and teams from various decades, and displays hang that tell a story from the origin of the Hoosier's candy-striped pants to Martha the Mop Lady, who starts the night with her rendition of “Indiana, Our Indiana” that brings the fans and cheerleaders to their feet. There are more Kodak moments with the original scoreboard wedged into the wall up above the escalators and its original baskets. The biggest piece of art might be the Assembly Hall Floor, which was used from 1976 to 1995. It is now displayed as a giant piece of art in a gallery that is the centerpiece of the recent renovations. The seating area of the gym has been left unchanged in appearance, but there are noticeable additions such as a new scoreboard and seatbacks. The two rows of seats create a theater-like atmosphere that seems to rise to the tippy-top of the building. The five championship banners hang on one side of the court, while various Big Ten banners adorn the opposite side. Other traditions include “The Greatest Time Out in College Basketball,” which occurs during the under-eight timeout in the second half when the spirit squad races out of every corner, waving flags to the tune of the William Tell Overture. Neighborhood 4 Numerous choices for eating, drinking, and shopping nearby are within a couple of miles. Mother Bear’s is probably the number one place for pizza in town. The pies are baked in a deep dish, allowing the cheese to caramelize around the edges. The place always seems to be packed, and parking is limited to the restaurant. A few of my IU friends suggest BuffaLouie’s for its wings, amazing sauces, and vibe. Lennie’s is another fine choice, with a lot more parking, that features sandwiches, pizza, stromboli, and beer brewed by the Bloomington Brewing Company. The heart of Bloomington is Kirkwood Ave, featuring two local institutions – Nick’s and Kilroy’s. The square features various shops, bars, and restaurants and borders the entrance of many of the picturesque grounds of the Indiana campus. A little north of town is Oliver Winery; the beautiful gardens, water fountains, and picnic areas around the lake offer a romantic spot for couples or a great place to enjoy wine with friends. Another colorful and touristy area in Nashville, Indiana, located in nearby Brown County, offers some of the best biking/hiking trails in the country and an eclectic downtown jam-packed with shops, restaurants, and Quaff On! Brewing Company. Fans 5 Hoosier fans are loud, proud, and faithful and are everywhere across the state and beyond. They make it one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in college basketball. Just engage in a conversation on the team’s chances during the Big Ten tournament, and you will have many claiming that the team is on its way to winning a sixth national championship. The men’s basketball record at Assembly Hall is an incredible 558-115 (.829) home record as of this writing. The student section is the largest in the nation, providing seating for 7,080 people. Regardless of the opponent they are playing, the Hoosier supporters are 100% behind their team, making it a tough place for any opponent to enter throughout the season. Access 4 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is located in the sports complex with Memorial Stadium, Bart Kaufman Field, and Andy Mohr Field. The price for parking is $10 and is probably the best spot for the first-time visitor, but there are various smaller lots and other spots to park for free that require a short walk. The renovations have stripped the building of its early 1970s appearance of ramps and narrow concourses, and the main lobby ceilings have been raised and are more open to the public. Escalators now take fans to upper levels of seating and balcony sections. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket depends on the opponent and whether or not it is a conference foe. All tickets are sold through SeatGeek and tend to sell out close to the day of the game; however, other resale sites, such as TickPick , offer single-game tickets for as low as $11 for Penn State to as high as $100 against hated rival Purdue . When you tie in the price of concession items and parking, it is easily an affordable night watching elite Big Ten basketball. Extras 5 One point for the bronze statues, interactive video board, and center court wall frame that exists in the south lobby: the place has changed for the better but has not altered the tradition of the inside of the seating area. An extra point for the championship banners that hang at both ends of the court: the style of the arena creates an ideal space to don the banners instead of the usual hanging from the rafters that are common in most indoor facilities. A third point for the tradition of Indiana University basketball: it is rich and something to savor while you attend a game at Assembly Hall. A fourth point to the traditions that include Martha the Mop Lady, candy-striped pants, and “The Greatest Time-Out in College Basketball.” You can learn all about them in the south lobby. One final point for the fervor is shown by the largest student section in college basketball. They truly help to make this an elite experience and pizazz to the night’s player introductions. Final Thoughts One of the iconic college sports venues has only gotten better. It will continue to provide Hoosier basketball fans everything it has had in the past: a dominating place for opponents to play in, school traditions, the frenzied student section, and championship-caliber basketball. An instantly recognizable facility at any level of sporting competition in the world. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Carroll Indoor Sports Center 515 Old Westminster Pike Westminster, MD 21157 Maryland Storm website Carroll Indoor Sports Center website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 200 Note: The DMV Gunners changed ownership and rebranded as the Maryland Storm in 2025. We expect our review experience to be unchanged. Home of the Gunners The DMV Gunners are a semi-professional soccer team based in Westminster, Maryland. The team is a Major Arena Soccer League 3 (MASL 3) member. MASL3 is a North American indoor soccer league that serves as the developmental league of the Major Arena Soccer League and MASL2. The league started in 2020. Major Arena Soccer League started in 2008 and Major Arena Soccer League 2 started in 2017. The Gunners play their home games at Carroll Indoor Sports Center. The venue is in its 30th season of indoor soccer. There are three soccer/lacrosse fields and one basketball/volleyball court. Food & Beverage 3 There is a simple concession stand located in one of the Carroll Indoor Sports Center's buildings. There are many options at a fair value. It still may be a good idea to eat before a game if you want more than snack bar offerings. Atmosphere 3 This is a normal indoor recreation field that we see all over the country. It is a simple setup with very little seating. There are a couple of rows of stands near the arena glass. The team also set up folding chairs for extra fans. there will be many fans standing around as well. Neighborhood 4 Westminster, a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located nearby and is one of the best family-type restaurants around and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. We also like to stop by one of the few Roy Roger's fast food restaurants when in the area. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 3 Many of the fans are friends or families of the players. You may also see participants from the other fields stopping by to check in on the action. Access 4 Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster and stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. The parking lot at the Carroll Indoor Sports Center can get very busy with all of the youth games competing, as well as the nearby fun center. You may want to get there early as the lot can be a busy one at times. The Gunners play in the building closest to the road. There is a very small entrance to that building. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $12 ($6 for students) which is a decent value. One could say it is too high, but we think supporting an up-and-coming organization like the Gunners is worth a couple extra bucks. There are also options for season tickets which could bring the cost down even more. Extras 2 There are so many things going on at the Carroll Indoor Sports Center, that you may want to set aside some time to watch one of the other games that are going on. Players Fun Zone is the nearby amusement center that offers laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars, mini golf, and much more, so you may want to stop in there before or after a Gunners match. Final Thoughts The DMV Gunners is a simple sporting event to watch but it gives the Westminster area a nice minor league type of affair to enjoy.

Photos by Long Island Ducks and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Fairfield Properties Ballpark 3 Court House Dr Central Islip, NY 11722 Long Island Ducks website Fairfield Properties Ballpark website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 6,002 Quacker Jacks The Long Island Ducks are an independent baseball team, a part of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. They play at the family friendly Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip, NY. At one point in time, duck farming was a big industry on Long Island, thus the name of the ball team. The ballpark has been known as several names: Suffolk County Sports Park, EAB Park, Citibank Park, and now Bethpage Park. A new LED lighting system was installed in 2017 proving the organization is committed to making the ballpark up-to-date for today’s fan’s desires and needs. Additional improvements in 2017 included replacement of the playing surface, replacement of the carpeting in the suites and restaurant, improved touchless lavatories, and a brand new craft beer called “Duck Tail Ale.” The Long Island Ducks are the Atlantic League Champions for the 2004, 2012, 2013 (runners up in the various other seasons). Note: The stadium name changed to Fairfield Properties Ballpark in 2020. Food & Beverage 5 The food at Bethpage Ballpark is more than what you would expect at a high-level independent league venue. Standard fare of nachos, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, chicken sandwich, and fries run $5 – $8. Churros, pizza, Italian sausage and pulled pork sandwiches price between $5 and $9. Mister Softee provides the ice cream. One concession area offers heros and wraps. On the healthier side, full Caesar, Cobb, and garden salads cost $8 each. Fruit and cheese, crudité, or a small side salad run $4. Unusual food choices at the ballpark include a peanut butter and jelly platter, hard boiled eggs, celery and peanut butter, and a peanut butter platter priced between $3 and $6. An abundant choice of beer is available for $7 – $8 including local Long Island beers from Great South Bay Brewery and Brooklyn Brewery. Bud/Bud Light, Sam Adams and others are also on offer. Wines choices run $7. Pepsi products are the soda choice and are priced at $4. Open to all fans, the Duck Club, a restaurant and bar is located on the club level of the venue with some seats allowing fans to eat, drink and watch the game. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the park. The cleverly named Waddle In Shop provides a vast amount of LI Ducks merchandise and souvenirs. Atmosphere 4 The Long Island Ducks provide an enjoyable family friendly entertainment environment, one that fans of all ages will enjoy. Seating includes two sections of long rows (20 seats), green fold-down stadium chairs with cup holders and decent legroom separated by a narrow walkway on the lower level. Twenty luxury seats are available on the club level from the third to first baseline. A net is only around the home plate area; the dugouts are net free! Lots of foul balls enter the seating area so be on the lookout when walking the concourse while play is in action Between inning and other activities include the usual minor league shenanigans like sumo wrestling, musical chairs, 50/50 contest, etc. The music volume is perfect; not too loud. One can have a conversation with their neighbor without having to yell over the music. The starting line up is posted on a whiteboard placed on concourse. The stadium offers a constant view of the game action, so even when fans are enjoying the festivities down the foul lines or grabbing a hot dog, they can still see the game in full. One cannot walk the entire circumference of the concourse. Kids bounce houses and activities are at the end of both the first and third baselines. The scoreboard provides the line score as well as video content. Bethpage Park has an attractive, lush green field. Be sure to check out some Long Island Ducks history on the walls when going up to the Duck Club. Like many of the other Atlantic League ballparks, the framework is very geared towards family entertainment. Neighborhood 3 Bethpage Park is located in the Suffolk County District Court Office complex with residential areas beyond that. A TGI Fridays and Carrabba’s are within walking distance. The best bet, though, is to try any of Long Island’s delicious pizzaria’s like Vinardo’s Pizzeria & Restaurant just a short drive away. Be sure to visit Great South Bay Brewing and Tasting Room (a sponsor of the LI Ducks), about five miles from the ballpark. The Duck’s home field is only two or so miles from the Long Island’s south shore beaches and Heckscher State Park. Bayard Cutting Arboretum is one of Islip’s top tourist attractions and is well worth a visit. Other professional sports on Long Island (though not necessarily close to Bethpage Park) are the New York Lizards (MLL), Long Island Rough Riders (USL), and the New York Islanders (NHL). For those wanting to spend the night close to the venue, a Courtyard Marriott and a Residence Inn are right across the street from the ballpark. Fans 4 Lots of families attend Ducks games. At the game of this review, not a lot of fans were there (frigid temperatures) but those that were there were quite hardy. The Long Island Ducks generally sit in first or second place in attendance for the Atlantic League averaging greater than 5,000 a game the last few seasons. They have a deep understanding of the game being close neighbors of the NY Mets and the NY Yankees. Access 4 The ballpark is located off the Southern State Parkway, though there are a variety of highways and routes to get there based on starting point. Click here for specific directions. The LIRR (Long Island Railroad) does not have a stop within walking distance to the park. The closest station is Central Islip on the Ronkonkoma Line, about 2.5 miles from the park. Long Island MacArthur Airport is an 8 – 9 mile drive. Parking is in a well-ordered semi-covered parking lot. If attendance is low, traffic in and out is very light. Even if it’s a packed house, worse traffic can be found in the shopping centers on Long Island. Traffic disperses in several directions so it moves out well. Parking is always free; playoff games too. The concourse is open and wide and easily traversed. Plenty of handicapped parking and seating are available. Return on Investment 5 A fan’s sports entertainment dollar is well spent at a Ducks game. Individual ticket prices range from $12 – $15. The Duck’s have various promotional days such as Military Mondays, Two-fer Tuesdays, Waddle In Wednesdays, and Thirsty Thursdays where tickets prices or concessions are reduced. They also offer offer ‘Unused Ticket Days’ where if you couldn’t make it to a game but still have your ticket, you can exchange it for select games towards the end of the season. Concession prices are affordable and parking is free. Extras 5 The Duck’s organization has many additional points of note to mention. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful – in person and over the phone. Co-owner and first Ducks’ manager, Bud Harrelson, can often be seen on the concourse autographing baseballs and other souvenirs. Harrelson, a former Mets shortstop and coach has won championships as a player (‘69 Mets World Series; ‘73 Mets NL Championship), a coach (‘86 Mets World Series), and owner (‘04, ‘12, and ‘13 Ducks Atlantic League Championship). Plenty of promotions are offered: Sundays – kids run the bases and a pregame player autograph session is available. All Saturday home games provide fireworks after the last out. Modernizing and updating the venue to meet today’s baseball fans standards deserves extra credit. A fan can listen to all Ducks games online – no fee. Final Thoughts Summer on Long Island can be a lot of fun with the beaches, piers, and boating. When on Long Island, be sure to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying a laid back, entertaining nine innings with friends and family at Bethpage Park.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Harvard Stadium 95 N Harvard St Boston, MA 02134 Harvard Crimson football website Harvard Stadium website Year Opened: 1903 Capacity: 30,323 Harvard’s Yard   Built in 1903, Harvard Stadium was the nation’s first stadium built for college football. Containing architectural elements of a Greek stadium and Roman circus, it is considered an engineering marvel, as it was the world’s first massive reinforced concrete structure. Harvard Stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is one of just four athletic arenas to be so designated. A  gift from Harvard's Class of 1879 for their 25th anniversary, Harvard Stadium only took 4 months to build at a cost of $310,000.   The physical layout of Harvard Stadium is quite significant to the way football is played today. When college football's rules committee met to discuss ways to make the game less violent and dangerous in 1906, one of the rules changes considered was widening the field by 40 feet. Since widening Harvard Stadium was an impossibility, and the committee felt that losing the prestigious Harvard team would be a death-knell to the fledgling sport, the committee decided to adopt the forward pass instead.   Over the years, Harvard Stadium has been more than just a home to Crimson football. The stadium was home to Harvard hockey until World War I. The New England Patriots called Harvard Stadium home in 1970 and 1971, as did the Boston Cannons lacrosse team in 2007. The trials for the US Olympic Track and Field team were held here in 1912, 1920, 1924, and 1928. Several soccer games for the 1984 Olympics were held at Harvard Stadium. Artists as diverse as Bob Marley, Miles Davis, Ray Charles, Mountain and James Taylor have performed here. Janis Joplin performed her last show here before she died in 1970.   Harvard first sponsored a football team in 1873 and was one of college football’s dominant teams in the early years of the sport, as the Crimson won twelve national championships between 1873 and 1920. Today, Harvard still ranks in the top ten in all-time wins in college football. Over their history, Harvard has won 19 Ivy League titles and has had 21 alumni enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. 39 Crimson alumni have played in the National Football League.   Food & Beverage 5   When they were building Harvard Stadium around the turn of the century (and I’m talking about the 20 th century here), it’s doubtful that concessions were considered in any part of the planning process. In the stadium proper, there are a few small concession stands tucked into tight spaces underneath the grandstand. Fans can get some basic snacks here, including hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, and snack items.   To experience the best concessions experience at a Harvard football game, check out one of the many food trucks parked near the entrance to the stadium by the Gordon Indoor Track Building. Here, fans will find a good variety of food served up by local favorites such as The Sausage Guy, Rockin’ Burgers, Trolley Dogs, and Berry Sweets. In addition to food from these Boston legends, fans can pick up chicken tenders, ice cream, fried Oreos, and more at the many portable stands set up here.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Harvard Stadium. Fans looking for an adult beverage will find several stands selling a selection of wine and beers, featuring several varieties from local favorite Sam Adams.   Atmosphere 5   Fans going to the century old Harvard Stadium expecting to experience a truly old-school game day presentation will undoubtedly be disappointed that the experience here is pretty similar to what you’ll find at every other football game across the country. While there are plenty of traditions that are honored, if you close your eyes, you could be almost anywhere, given the noise and shenanigans going on here on the banks of the Charles River.   There are a lot of modern touches in this old place. The new sound system is excellent, and the volume is turned way up. The Crimson uses a pair of on-field hosts who aren’t afraid to scream into their microphones. They lead the in-game shenanigans, and surprisingly, a lot is going on when the play is stopped. Promos happen all game long, including videos on the board on the Murr Center roof. Cheerleaders do pushups in the end zone after Crimson scores and throw t-shirts into the stands. The Harvard band plays throughout the game, and game stats are displayed on ribbon boards mounted on the façade of the Murr Center. It’s a sensory overload you wouldn’t expect at stuffy old Harvard University.   Much like the Ivy that grows on the façade of the Murr Center, reminders of Harvard’s decades of football history are all around you. The Dillon Quad is open before the game for food, beverages, games, and of course, merchandise. Players walk Dillon Quad into the stadium pre-game and enter the field through the closed end of the field to “Ten Thousand Men of Harvard” performed by the band. In a facility like this, you just can’t help but feel the history, no matter how many modern touches may soften the stadium’s concrete seats.   Neighborhood 4   Before or after a game at Harvard Stadium, take a walk across the Anderson Memorial Bridge, which spans the Charles River, and explore Harvard Square, a top Boston tourist destination. While Harvard Square may not be the bohemian center it once was, it still is one of the most popular areas in Boston for walking, shopping, and people watching.   For those wishing to bask in the history, architecture, and aura of Harvard, walking tours of the campus occur regularly. While touring the campus, take a picture in front of the statue of John Harvard, as so many others have done. Just remember these three things about the statue: 1) it is not actually a statue of John Harvard (no image of him exists), but of a random student; 2) John Harvard was not the founder of the college, but its first benefactor; and 3) the college was actually founded in 1636, not in 1638, as the statue claims. But remember to rub his shiny shoe, it is rumored to bring good luck.   For the longest time, there wasn’t a whole lot to do in the area right around the stadium on the Allston side of the Charles River. That is changing, as the area has seen a fair bit of development. Now, eateries including Sloane’s and FiDO Pizza, within walking distance of the Stadium, provide visiting fans with some options. Of course, downtown Boston is just a couple of miles away, should you want to explore one of the great cities in the country.   Fans 4   Harvard averages between 10,000 and 11,000 fans per game every year, a figure that ranks them in the top twenty FCS schools in attendance annually. During the years when Harvard hosts “The Game” versus Yale, this figure increases accordingly. Unfortunately, even a large crowd of 20,000 leaves a lot of space in this gigantic concrete hulk of a stadium.   You’ll find a cross-section of Boston sports fandom at Harvard Stadium, from assorted alumni who have been coming to games since they were in school to townies and other casual sports fans. There’s also a really good turnout from the student body on any given Saturday. With the compact footprint of the Ivy League, expect a decent turnout from visiting fans as well.   The size of the crowd you will see at Harvard Stadium will depend greatly on the opponent. Traditionally, if you are there for the biannual edition of “The Game” against Yale, expect a sold-out stadium and one of the legendary college football experiences in the nation. If Harvard is hosting Ivy League rival Princeton or neighbor Brown, expect a crowd in the neighborhood of 15,000 fans. Otherwise, you’ll see around 6,000-8,000 fans per game at a Crimson game – attendance figures most schools would die for.   Access 3   While Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, Harvard Stadium is located across the Charles River, in the Allston section of Boston. Also located here are most of Harvard’s other athletic facilities, including Lavietes Pavilion, Bright-Landry Hockey Center, O’Donnell Field, and Jordan Field.   Anyone who has ever tried to drive the crowded, crooked streets of Greater Boston can tell you that you are better off leaving your car at home and taking public transportation. The same is true for getting to Harvard Stadium. Stadium Journey’s recommended method of travel to Harvard is the subway, or “T”, as it is called locally. The Harvard Station MBTA stop is a 10-minute walk from the Bright-Landry Hockey Center. Several bus routes also stop at Harvard Station. The 66 and 86 buses stop directly in front of the athletic complex. For more information, fares, and schedules, check out the MBTA website .   If you do insist on driving to Harvard Stadium, the most direct route is to take Storrow Drive to North Harvard Street. Parking is available throughout the Athletic Complex. Cars are jammed into seemingly every available space in the complex. Tailgating is only allowed in certain areas, so reserve your spots and arrive early.   Harvard Stadium is an enormous concrete horseshoe. Fans will enter the stadium underneath the grandstand into an open concourse, where concession stands and restrooms can be found. Just keep in mind that the facility is over a century old and does look it in some spots, so fans should tread carefully.   Stairs lead up to the seating bowl, emptying about a quarter of the way up the grandstand. All of the seats here are concrete bleachers, so bring some padding to protect your backside. Fans requiring handicapped seating can access the accessible seating area via a ramp located on the open (north) end of the horseshoe. All seats feature excellent views of the action.   Return on Investment 2   Tickets to Harvard football games are sold for $25, with youth and seniors discounted to $20. Certain premium games (selected conference games) have premium ticket prices - $31. If you are looking for tickets for “The Game,” the biannual game against Yale, expect to pay significantly more (and be sure to get your tickets well in advance). Parking in the many lots located throughout the athletic complex will run you $20. Again, it is highly recommended that you purchase in advance.   Concessions, while not exorbitantly so, feel like they are a bit on the high side for this level of football. Everything is just a little more expensive at Harvard.   Extras 4   Banners commemorating Harvard’s national and Ivy League championships are located on the façade of the stadium’s interior at field level.   The Harvard band’s big bass drum measures 8 feet across and is large enough to warrant its own name – Bertha. It is the largest playable natural skin-based drum in the world. In the past, the drum has been stolen by rival bands from Yale and Brown, and its giant drumstick was stolen during a game in 1963 by students from Columbia. The field at Harvard Stadium has been dedicated in honor of Tim Murphy, who was the Crimson’s head football coach from 1994 to 2023. He retired as the all-time winningest coach in Harvard and Ivy League history, with 200 wins.   An extra point is awarded for Harvard Stadium itself, one of four stadiums in the nation to be designated as a National Historic Landmark.   Final Thoughts   These days, many things that are simply “old” are designated as “historic.” In the case of Harvard Stadium, while the facility is certainly the former, it is definitely the latter. A game at Harvard is a juxtaposition of traditional and modern touches, where modern gameday shenanigans meet old-timey stodginess. No matter which approach you prefer, a visit to the banks of the Charles River should be on the bucket list for any serious college football fan.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Paladin Stadium 1300 Duncan Chapel Rd Greenville, SC 29613 Greenville Triumph website Paladin Stadium website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 16,000 Together We Triumph Paladin Stadium, home to Furman football  and women’s lacrosse, has also hosted Greenville Triumph SC since 2022. The Triumph began play in 2019 as one of the original ten members of USL League One, the third tier of the U.S. soccer pyramid. They were Greenville’s first professional soccer team since the early 2000s, when the Greenville Lions competed in USL-2, a now-defunct professional league unrelated to the current USL League Two, at Sirrine Stadium. For their first three seasons, the Triumph played at Legacy Early College, where temporary bleachers surrounded the school’s pitch. While modest, the venue witnessed the club’s most successful stretch to date, with three consecutive trips to the League One finals, as well as a championship in 2020. In 2022, the club moved into the larger Paladin Stadium on Furman’s campus. The move also gave the organization room to add a women’s side, the Greenville Liberty, who compete in the USL W League. Paladin has served the Triumph well, but it was never intended as a permanent home. That will come in 2026, when the club opens a new 10,000-seat soccer-specific stadium in nearby Mauldin, part of the Bridgeway Station development.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at Paladin Stadium are run in-house, and while the menu is not extensive, it covers the essentials. Burgers, brats, hot dogs, and nachos with cheese sauce are the staples, with a shaved ice stand adding a refreshing option on warm afternoons. Candy and other quick snacks round things out, which families especially will appreciate. It is not a lineup that will wow foodies – a food truck or two would go a long way toward adding variety, but what is here does the job. Drinks include Pepsi products, Gatorade, Aquafina, and lemonade, along with domestic beer, a few craft selections from Asheville’s Wicked Weed Brewing, and seltzers. Prices stay reasonable, keeping the overall match day experience accessible for families.   Atmosphere   3 The Triumph currently plays at Paladin Stadium  on Furman University’s campus. The stadium’s brickwork and hedges give it the feel of a traditional southern football ground, while the spire of Daniel Chapel and Paris Mountain in the distance provide a quaint setting for matches. Still, Paladin Stadium is clearly a football-first facility. Yard lines, lacrosse markings, goal posts, and Furman’s purple-and-white branding clash with the Triumph’s green and blue, leaving the pitch a bit busy for soccer. The in-stadium experience stays lively, however. An in-game host pumps up fans at kickoff, and the fan engagement team leads chants of “Greenville…Triumph” at certain points during the match. Beyond the club’s efforts, much of the stadium’s soccer atmosphere comes from Greenville’s independent supporters, the Reedy River Riot, who drive energy and passion throughout the stands. Soccer’s nonstop pace keeps fans engaged, leaving little need for additional promotions. The club still works in ad reads during throw-ins, and halftime features performances from local groups, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience. Fans have several seating options depending on how close they want to be to the action. General admission provides bleacher seating, with the option to sit near the supporters’ section for full immersion in the chants and energy. Sideline and sideline-preferred seats bring spectators closer to the benches, where they can feel the intensity of the players and coaches, while Center Circle seating at midfield offers molded chairs for a more comfortable view, and the FieldClub provides the premium experience, pairing padded seats with all-inclusive food and drinks in a reserved area behind the goal.   Neighborhood   3 Paladin Stadium sits on Greenville’s northern edge, where the city’s suburbs begin to fade into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The setting gives the campus a sense of space and scenery that feels a bit removed from downtown Greenville. Furman’s campus covers a sprawling 750 acres. Beyond the academic, residential, and athletic facilities, Swan Lake, a walking trail around it, and even a golf course open to the public are all within the campus’s confines. Miles of biking trails also run adjacent to campus. If approaching Furman from the back side of campus, Highway 25 is dotted with food trucks serving various types of Latino food, while the approach from Highway 276 has chain restaurants. Downtown Greenville is just over six miles south, and it has become one of the most celebrated small cities in the country. The walkable core is packed with breweries, high-end restaurants, hotels, and public art, anchored by the popular Falls Park on Reedy River. For fans making a weekend of it, there’s no shortage of options – early-season matches can be paired with a Greenville Drive  game at nearby Fluor Field, while later in the year the Greenville Swamp Rabbits ’ hockey schedule offers another sporting option.   Fans   3 Greenville draws roughly 1,800 fans per match, placing the Triumph in the lower half of League One’s attendance. With Paladin Stadium right on Furman University’s campus, it is a little surprising that more students do not make it out to games. Even so, the Reedy River Riot  helps bring passion to the stands, pounding their drums, leading chants, and leaning into the visiting side (and officials) throughout the match. Fans may be smaller in number, but they stay engaged, celebrating goals with cheers and the clatter of cowbells, or collectively gasping at shots on frame. Attendance dips a bit for midweek matches, but the most spirited crowds come out for rivalry games, especially the Peach States Derby against South Georgia Tormenta , or matches against nearby Charlotte Independence.   Access   3 Furman University sits north of downtown Greenville, and reaching the campus can be a bit inconvenient due to the lack of direct interstate access. US Highways 25 and 276 run along either side of campus, but even after exiting I-185, fans still face roughly 10 miles of surface streets and traffic lights before arriving at Paladin Stadium. Most GPS directions bring visitors through the rear entrance on Duncan Chapel Road, which leads directly to the orange parking lot just a short walk from the stadium; season pass holders and supporters have access to a smaller lot on the northwest side. Entry points are located at each corner of the near side of the stadium, all easily reachable from the various parking areas. For the most part, the interior of the stadium is easy to navigate; only one side of the stadium is open for seating, which keeps things simple. Fans walking along the field concourse can be a mild distraction to those in the stands, but as long as they keep moving, it is not much of an issue. The pathway from the stands to the field club can be a bit narrow where the ad boards and field-side hedges are located, while the inner concourse is a little narrow, especially where apparel tables take up space, but all in all, these do not cause significant problems moving around.   Return on Investment   5 General admission tickets typically start at $15, with weekday specials often bringing the cost below $10, easily one of the best values in League One. Parking is a flat $10 in the large lot just outside Paladin Stadium, and concessions are reasonably priced, so grabbing a soda or snack will not break the budget. Altogether, the Triumph keeps costs low enough that families and casual fans alike can enjoy a night of soccer without worrying about wallet strain.   Extras   2 Just outside the main entrance sits a customized 1961 Triumph TR3A – this two-seater convertible is painted bright lime green with navy lettering, with the Greenville Triumph’s crest sitting proudly on the hood. An adjacent display explains the car’s history and its connection to the club, making it a clever way to mark the stadium as Triumph’s home. Regardless of the result on the field, the Triumph make a point of showing appreciation for their fans – after the match, the players come toward the supporters’ section to sign autographs, take photos, and personally thank those in attendance.   Final Thoughts Match day at Paladin Stadium is a fun and lively experience, with fans clearly invested in the action; the Triumph have done a solid job creating atmosphere despite playing in a football-first venue. Much of the energy here comes from the Reedy River Riot, whose chants and drumbeats give the stands a real soccer feel. Still, playing in a college football stadium has its drawbacks: yard lines, lacrosse markings, and the scale of the stands can make the field feel a little busy, making the experience less intimate than traditional soccer grounds. The move to a soccer-specific stadium in 2026 should do nothing but bolster a fun soccer experience, while providing fans with development that provides food, shopping, and housing just steps from the stadium.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex Benedictine Dr Lisle, IL 60532 Benedictine University Eagles website Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 3,000 Eagles in the Sky Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex is home to the Benedictine University Eagles football team and is located in Lisle, Illinois. The Eagles should not be confused with the Benedictine College Ravens of Atchison, Kansas. The Eagles compete in the NCAA’s Division III; their stadium holds 3,000 fans in a single grandstand on the east side – it was built in 2005. The football stadium is surrounded by a running track, and the wider facility also includes a baseball field and softball field, so it can be used for multiple Benedictine Eagles sports.   Food & Beverage   1 Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex does have concessions, but only chips, packaged candy, bottled soda, and bottled water – they tend to run out quickly, however, and thus the concession stand may close at halftime.   Atmosphere   2 The atmosphere at Benedictine University Eagles games is okay; nothing stands out especially, but they do play fun music, and the PA announcer is a lot of fun. During my most recent visit, I noticed an issue with the speakers; there was static and fuzziness at times with the sound coming out. The band only has about 7 to 10 members. As is common with smaller schools, there are lots of visiting fans here due to how close the schools in the conferences are to each other, so the visiting team can easily travel well. As such, during my last visit, the tailgating scene at Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex especially showed a ton of purple in the parking lot, rather than the Eagles' home team red. The main issue here is that the grandstand is on the east side, meaning you will have the sun in your eyes for games that occur between noon and 6 or 7 pm; more so for mid-afternoon kickoffs. Two small areas at the top of the grandstand may provide a little relief, but not much.   Neighborhood   3 Lisle, Illinois, is located about 40 minutes west/southwest of Chicago; there is a nature museum nearby (on Benedictine’s campus) as well as a theater/IMAX. There are also plenty of restaurants and hotels nearby, a lot of them in Naperville, the next town over. There is also an antique mall in Naperville if you are interested in that sort of thing. One of the local favorites in the area is Chicago-style deep dish pizza, and if you are looking for that, go no further than Giordano's – their pizza is so good we went there twice while I was in town for the weekend. Also, try their broken cannoli, basically a deconstructed cannoli with the cream piled in the center and broken shell pieces used for dipping; a lot easier to eat than the regular version, and great for sharing. I would not recommend Gino’s East. If you aren’t feeling like pizza, I would recommend Italian beef from Buona’s, although many other restaurants in the area offer it as well, including Giordano's.   Fans   2 There are a good number of Eagles fans in attendance at Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex football games, but as mentioned above, you may see just as many visiting fans at a typical game. The home fans who are here, though, are very spirited – they follow the game, cheer at the right moments, and do not leave early.   Access   5 Getting to the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex is as easy as any sports venue you might ever go to. Located in such a small town that there is no traffic to speak of, there is also free parking right next to the football field. The concourse is shared with the baseball field next door, and there is plenty of room to move around. There are tables on the concourse for people to sit at, as well as a giant lawn chair you can sit in; this may be a good selfie opportunity. There is also an elevator if you want to go up to the second level, although it can only hold three people at a time.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets only cost $10 for football at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex, which is a little higher than some other D3 stadiums I have been to, but is by no means exorbitant. Given the sun issues and the potential for running out of concessions, this is likely not a bucket list visit; this facility may be more for those who are Benedictine alums or friends of Benedictine players, or for those whose team is playing in Lisle that weekend.   Extras   2 The elevator is a nice touch; you rarely see those at such small stadiums, and the tables and giant lawn chairs are great amenities as well. The local water tower is also decorated with the school’s colors, which is always a plus.   Final Thoughts If you are in the area and would like an inexpensive way to spend some time, or just love the game of football, seeing a game at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex may be just the ticket. Not a lot of frills, but a peaceful, no-hassle way to watch the game we all love.

Photos by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Alfred-Kunze-Sportpark Am Sportpark 2 04179 Leipzig, Germany BSG Chemie Leipzig website Alfred-Kunze Stadion website Year Opened: 1920 Capacity: 4,999 Tough, Edgy East Germany Football Choosing a stadium journey to the Alfred-Kunze Stadion to watch BSG Chemie Leipzig brings to mind CS Lewis’s description of Aslan, in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. “Safe? Of course, he isn’t safe. But he is good!” Football in East Germany retains the tough, edgy, and (occasionally) violent culture that will never leave visitors feeling fully safe. However, if you keep your phone in your pocket, restrict tourist instincts, and respect the ultras and their space, it’s really good! Men, women, and children smiling and socialising, drinking beer (and cola) give this club a safe and inclusive vibe, something BSG Chemie Leipzig is known for. Food & Beverage 3 Beer is €4.50 with a €2 deposit for your branded Cup. Coffee is €3. Cola €3.50. Food stalls, on your left-hand side as you enter, will serve you the mandatory Bratwurst for €3.50. Atmosphere 5 Built in 1920 for a reported 512,545.83 marks, this antique and addictive stadium is still going strong 105 years later. FC Victoria 06 Leutzsch were the first tenants. Club mergers, bankruptcy, and political preferences take you on a winding historical sporting journey from Victoria to the modern-day BSG Chemie Leipzig. Away fans are seated in the south stand (GasteBlock). To the right, the whitewashed and distinctive administrative ‘house’ sits confidently alongside the VIP and family area. The Norddamm is a classic two-tiered crumbling terrace with a scoreboard at the very back. On match days, the terrace becomes a living organism, home of the ‘Die Diablos’ ultra group. Pyrotechnics, tifo , and 90 minutes of chanting, led by the capo, provide a spectacular backdrop to the evening. BSG Chemie Leipzig Die Diablos Pyrotechnics, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Finally, the Dammsitz Tribune is the home of the old wooden stand with a length of terrace and seats closer to the action. The wooden grandstand is a historical item of beauty; it came from the regatta track at the Elsterflutbett and was moved to Leutzsch in 1948. Neighborhood 3 Leutzsch is an Alt-West locality of Leipzig. Aside from the football, it’s the forest that attracts hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Part of the city since 1922, Leutzsch has an industrial past; now the factories are derelict or home to galleries. There are the necessities you need, but it’s strongly recommended you stay in Leipzig, just 3.5 miles east; it's a vibrant and attractive city steeped in history. Fans 5 The stadium capacity is currently capped at 4,999 for safety reasons. In the last ten years, attendance has grown. An average of around 1,200 in 2015, increasing to regular 5k sell-outs in 2025. The record attendance was 32,000 back in 1950. The name BSG comes from Betriebssportgemeinschaft, the sports club movement in the old DDR. Each club was also linked to an industry, in BSG’s case, the chemical sector. Fans are known for their social conscience, anti-discrimination ethos, and a dislike of the commercialism that blights parts of Western European football. Their rivals are Lokomotive Leipzig. Access 3 To find The Alfred’ from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, jump on an S-Bahn (S1) to Leipzig Leutzsch. Disembark and follow the green and white procession towards the ground. Carrying (and drinking) a bottle of beer on your journey is a must. The main route into Germany will be via Berlin. (Leipzig-Halle Flughafen has limited destinations). From the capital, it’s a direct train south-west to Leipzig on the ICE train (75 minutes). Arriving this way ensures you see Leipzig Hauptbahnhof , the largest train station (by square foot) in Europe! Return on Investment 4 Match tickets cost around €20 and can be purchased online (with meaningful reductions for the unemployed, students, and certain disabilities). The ticket is easily uploaded onto your phone wallet upon online purchase (helpful, but RIP printed tickets). S-Bahnhof travel is inexpensive. A standard single ticket is about €3.50, or cheaper via the LeipzigMOVE app (worth signing up for if you are staying a few days) Add in the cheap beer and bratwurst, and this level of football (Regionalliga Nordost - tier 4) is tremendous value. It’s not plush seats with prawn sandwiches; it’s participative, social, and an assault on the senses. For BSG fans, it’s a way of life. Extras 4 The family area next to the VIP section is an excellent provision. Sand pits and toys in a fenced-off area, allowing you to enjoy the football whilst your little ones play safely. A printed programme is available. Long live the printed programme! The stadium was renamed in the 1990s after legendary champion coach Alfred Kunze. The Alfred was the first ground in Germany to introduce a ‘man high’ mesh fence between the playing surface and the fans! Final Thoughts The chemical ingredients of this trip included pyrotechnics, wurstfüllung, cement, water, hops, malt, and wheat. Stadium Journey prescribes this trip to you; it won’t make you safe, but it makes you feel good. Chemie Leipzig Celebration, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Joan C. Edwards Stadium 2001 3rd Ave Huntington, WV 25755 Marshall Thundering Herd website Joan C. Edwards Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 38,016 Here comes the Thundering Herd… ​Marshall University fans are passionate about college football. At first glance, Marshall might not seem like a school known for its loud, energetic football spirit. ​ Without context, one might mistake Marshall games for Ohio State, given the enthusiasm and cheering from the fanbase. They are among the most exciting teams to watch in the Sun Belt Conference and the Appalachian region. ​ Marshall offers everything you want from a smaller Division I school. Producing NFL legends like Randy Moss and Troy Brown, the Thundering Herd is formidable—especially at home. ​ Food & Beverage  4 ​When it comes to concessions, there’s nothing much that isn’t different compared to any other basic assortment of food and drink at another university’s stadium. But that isn’t a bad thing either. You have your typical choices of pretzels, nachos, pizza, and hot dogs. ​ If you’re the drinking type and at least the age of 21, then there are many opportunities to fetch a nice, refreshing beer like Bud Light or Miller Lite. If alcohol doesn’t suit your fancy, then there are other options like Pepsi products and the old reliable water. ​ Atmosphere  5 ​While not a ginormous stadium compared to others, Joan C. Edwards Stadium still feels there’s more in attendance than there actually is. Everyone, Thundering Herd fans and the visiting opponents, is on the edge of their seats waiting to see what play happens next. ​ It doesn’t matter if the Herd are up 20 or down 20, their fans will likely still be cheering at the top of their lungs. It’s the type of crowd and atmosphere every athletics department of any school or organization would want. ​ Neighborhood  5 ​No matter how big they are, a lot of universities in the Appalachian territory have the same vibe as backyard high school football games. Going to the game is a big event, even if someone is not a fan of the sport in general. ​ The general traffic and getting in and out of Huntington before and after the game is not particularly difficult. It may be a little slow getting back home after the game, but that’s to be expected with sports events in general. ​ Fans  5 ​What else needs to be said about the fans that hasn’t been said already? The best fanbases are ride or die, no matter how their team is performing. That certainly describes the fans of the Thundering Herd. ​ They are almost as fun to watch as the football players themselves. Many of them don’t leave the game until the final buzzer. Recently, the Herd hosted Eastern Kentucky and easily took a 38-7 victory. The fans were just as loud, if not louder, from the beginning of the first quarter to the final minutes of the last quarter. ​ Access 3 ​One criticism of Joan C. Edwards is how difficult it is to find somewhat decent parking upon arrival. Huntington locals and students are going to fill up the main parking lots pretty quickly, so it’s best to get there pretty early to find a good spot. ​ If not, visitors will have to resort to finding a spot located at any of the nearby parking garages. When I went, I had to pay $20 for a garage, which is not terrible compared to far more egregious prices a university could charge. ​ Return on Investment 4 ​Like all collegiate teams, tickets vary from time to time depending on the sport and the opposing team. On average, the resale price for a ticket to watch a Marshall Thundering Herd home football game is often cited in the range of $30 to $40. ​ The lowest get-in price begins as low as $13, whereas premium seating (VIP suites and certain club seats) can range anywhere between $200 $1,000. For just a standard seat at a non-premium home game, fans can expect to pay around $25 to $45 if they purchase tickets directly in advance. ​ Extras 5 ​Joan C. Edwards Stadium was named after Joan C. Edwards, a jazz singer and philanthropist who, along with her husband James F. Edwards, donated a large sum of money to Marshall University. ​ Also, the stadium itself is named after Ms. Edwards, while the actual playing field is named after her husband. The tragic 1970 plane crash was ultimately made into a sports drama titled We Are Marshall  (2006) starring A-list actor Matthew McConaughey as Coach Jack Lengyel. ​ The film follows him as he arrives on the scene at Marshall University in 1971 and his determination to rebuild a winning culture amongst a grieving community. ​ Final Thoughts ​If you’re ever passing by and want to watch some competitive college football, the Thundering Herd at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is just for you. My overall experience driving to, watching the contest, and driving home, reflecting on it, resulted in a splendid way to end my Saturday evening.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Skyhawk Field 490 Washington St. Easton, MA 02356 Stonehill Skyhawks men's soccer website Skyhawk Field website Skyhawk Soccer   On April 5, 2022, tiny Stonehill College, a private Catholic school located in Easton, Massachusetts, with an enrollment of 2,500 undergraduate students, announced it was moving all of its athletic teams to the NCAA Division I level, effective in the fall of 2022. Before 2022, Stonehill was a member of the Northeast-10 Conference in NCAA Division II. Upon its elevation to Division One, Stonehill joined the Northeast Conference.                                                                                                                          Stonehill’s athletic teams competed for years as the Chieftains. In 2002, the school decided to change its nickname. After considering several options, Stonehill officially changed its nickname to the Skyhawks in 2005. This name has no connection to a bird or animal but does have a connection to the school’s history.   After the school’s property was purchased by the Congregation of Holy Cross, an airfield on site was leased to the Navy during World War II and to private companies afterwards. The airfield was closed in 1955 as the college grew, but the Navy continued to use the land for training exercises and would employ the Skyhawk aircraft between 1954 and 1995.   Before the construction of W.B. Mason Stadium, Skyhawk Field served as the home to Stonehill football and lacrosse. Today it is the primary home of the Skyhawks men’s and women’s soccer teams. Some bigger games are played at W.B. Mason Stadium. The field served as the site of the 2003 NCAA Division II Lacrosse Championship Game between Stonehill and Longwood, won 9-8 by the Skyhawks.   The first men’s soccer team played at Stonehill in 1962. The men’s team has yet to qualify for an NCAA tournament, either in Division I or II. The women’s soccer program began play in 1979. The women’s team has played in three Division II tournaments (2016, 2018, 2019), winning one game in their three appearances.   Food & Beverage 0    There are no concessions available at Skyhawk Field. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks or beverages to enjoy during the match. You’ll be sure to see lots of beverages from the nearby Dunkin’ or Cumby’s in the stands. (That’s Dunkin’ Donuts or Cumberland Farms to those of you who are not local)   Atmosphere 2   The game day presentation at Skyhawk Field is a very basic one, as you would expect at such a small facility. The athletic staff works out of temporary quarters set up at the top of the bleachers, and makes sure that visiting fans have everything they need for an enjoyable afternoon. Music plays out of decent speakers pregame and during halftime. The PA announcer adds a bit of energy and relays game information to the fans in attendance, and if you’re sitting nearby, you can hear the play-by-play crew do their thing. A scoreboard in the west corner of the pitch displays basic game information.   Of course, the fans in the stands do their part to cheer on the Skyhawks and make most of the noise you’ll hear while visiting Stonehill. If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the bleachers, you can bring your own chair and sit along the fence on the far side of the pitch.   Neighborhood 3   Stonehill College’s suburban location and sprawling campus belie its location in a bustling area with many dining and lodging options for visiting fans. State routes 123 and 138 intersect at the southwest corner of campus. Both routes are pretty busy local roads, lined with strip malls filled with the usual national chains alongside a few local eateries in both directions. Stadium Journey recommends checking out Stoneforge Grill or Brach’s Grill and Tap, both right near campus, for your pre- or postgame meal.   While you may not find many attractions in the immediate vicinity of Stonehill, Boston is located just a half hour’s drive to the north. Visiting fans will find no shortage of things to do there. Fans looking for lodging options closer to school should check out the Residence Inn by Marriott just off Route 24.   More information about local accommodations, restaurants, and attractions can be found here .   Fans 2   The crowd at a Stonehill soccer game is what we at Stadium Journey call a “friends and family” crowd. That means that it is not large in size, but virtually everyone in the stands seems to have a connection with the athletes down on the field. As a result, what the crowd may lack in quantity, they make up for in quality. The fans are generally very supportive and boisterous in cheering on the home squad. There’s a decent turnout from the student body, as friends of team members will stop by to support their classmates.   Overall attendance at Skyhawk Field can vary depending on the day of the week, opponent, and time of day the game is being held. Crowds will usually number around 100-200 fans. As mentioned earlier, games that will attract larger crowds will be held at W.B. Mason Stadium. For the 2025 season, six games are scheduled at Skyhawk Field and three at the larger facility.   Access 3   Stonehill College is located in suburban Easton, MA, directly to the west of the city of Brockton and 25 miles south of Boston. The campus is easily accessible, as both Interstates 495 and 93 lead to Route 24, which runs north-south just a mile from Skyhawk Field.   Skyhawk Field is located right near Stonehill’s front entrance on Belmont Street (Route 123). There is no parking on-site, so fans must park at the nearby grass athletic field and walk over to the soccer pitch.   This is a basic facility, with only a small set of bleachers on the southeast side of the pitch. There is plenty of room all around the pitch for fans to stand or set up a chair and take in the action. A pair of port-a-johns on the south corner of the pitch make up the entirety of the facility’s, ummm, facilities. Fans with mobility issues should tread carefully, as there are no paved walkways around Skyhawk Field.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge to attend a Stonehill soccer match. There is also no charge to park your car. With no concessions on site, you will not have to reach for your wallet even once during your visit to Skyhawk Field.   Extras 1   Near the entrance to Skyhawk Field is a plaque dedicating the field to Hernani “Ernie” Branco, who coached the men’s soccer team from 1984 to 1998. The plaque is mounted on a rock, as Branco is the “rock” on which the Stonehill soccer program is built.   Final Thoughts   At first glance, Skyhawk Field may not seem like it’s a proper Division One facility. But its charm is in its simplicity. Pull your favorite lawn chair up to the edge of the pitch and enjoy an afternoon of quality soccer in a relaxed setting.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Savannah Bananas came to Indianapolis, Indiana, this past weekend and played in front of 30,000 people for the two-game series on their 2023 Banana Ball World Tour. Even though Mother Nature had other plans the first night knocked out the power to Victory Field . The skies would open up two days later to provide the canvas for all the wacky hijinks that are Banana Ball. The lines of people stretched around the perimeter of the ballpark with gunpowder gray skies up above. However, once the gates opened, the drops dissipated, and the skies opened up for ideal weather for baseball. Tickets were at a premium, and only Taylor Swift, who was performing at Paycor Stadium 100 miles away in Cincinnati, had a higher demand for tickets. The Bananas themselves have a waitlist of over 800,000. Banana Ball is a 2-hour version of baseball with nine unique rules. Jesse Cole developed the rules, which debuted in front of an audience in June 2020. At the time, the Bananas were members of the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League, but soon this madcap version of the game took off, and the team went around the Southern part of the country to play exhibition games. Soon, fans expected to see Banana Ball instead of the regular version played at the club’s home ballpark in Grayson Stadium. Soon, Cole decided to leave the CPL and play as a professional barnstorming team akin to the Indianapolis Clowns, House of David, and most famously, basketball’s Harlem Globetrotters . Cole was not hard to find at the game; he greeted fans entering the stadium from the centerfield entrance. Decked in his trademark yellow tuxedo and hat, he posed for pictures and selfies with the hundreds who walked through that gate. Soon, he was on the field introducing the team and its brand of baseball to thousands sitting in their seats or on the grass lawn of the stadium. “We drove down on Thursday night, had a flight tire, and then waited for two hours outside the stadium before they canceled the game,” said Julie Dorman from Carmel, Indiana. “We were not going to miss this game today.” The Bananas brand of baseball has its unique 9-rules that include fans making an out on a caught foul ball (there were two of them in Indy), no bunting, no mound visits, or players stepping out of the batter’s box. A batter can steal first on a wild pitch, and after ball four, the batter can run to as many bases, while all nine position players toss the ball to one another to get him out. The most interesting twist is that every inning counts. Teams get a point for scoring the most runs per inning. If the teams are scoreless or tied, that inning is even, and you go to the next one. The Bananas 4-2 by winning 4 of the 9 innings. There was never a dull moment from the time people entered the stadium. Music played over the speaker system, and club M.C. The Young Professor and The Man-Nanas engaged with the audience. Soon, players from the Bananas and their foes, The Party Animals, walked through the crowd tossing bananas and hi-fiving fans young and old. Among the promotions were players catching bananas from teammates in the stands, a boxing-style weigh-in with a dance-off, and the team's tribute to the Lion King - where a baby is hoisted while players kneel below. “This is pure entertainment,” said Joe Newman, who brought his family up outside Louisville, Kentucky, to see the game. “I am not a baseball fan, more of a soccer guy, but these guys entertain you for two hours with music and on-field gimmicks.” Fans decked in official team gear, with a few sporting makeshift t-shirts. I have been to many minor league games and have never seen quite the amount of gear worn in the crowd. The three merchandise tents had long lines throughout the game, with probably quite a few missing out on the action on the field. “We were in Detroit last night and found out we got tickets at the last minute,” said Dave Kenney of Muskegon, Michigan. “My son and I drove three and a half hours to Indy, and now it’ll be a 4-hour drive back to Muskegon, but it was well worth it.” Ask anyone that works for Stadium Journey, along with my wife and friends, and they will tell you that I never sit down for an entire game. That was not the case; I wanted to see what would happen next during each inning and decided to plant myself behind home plate in the suite level to get a bird's-eye view of everything on the diamond. There were two caught foul balls, several sprints after a walk, a person on stilts getting a base hit for a walk-off in one inning, a pitcher with a motorcycle helmet, several celebrations from the Party Animals outside of their dugout, a few backflips from the players, and free donuts handed out for the donut batter striking out. "It was the Harlem Globetrotters meet baseball," said Dave Buddenbaum, who attended the Friday evening game. "Both teams were talented and made the game fun." After the game, Cole and the players came out to thank the 15,000 people and met them on the grass lawn for autographs. The Banana Band played while Jesse signed more autographs and posed for pictures. Mobs of people surrounded members of both teams to get the elusive autograph and photo. The World Tour heads to Akron’s Canal Park for the next night for two games before a few days off before returning to Savannah for the weekend. The 30,000 people who attended games in Indianapolis were provided what had been advertised by the club through social media and word of mouth-baseball and show. The Savanah Bananas are not doing anything new in minor-league baseball promotions in recent years. The tinkering of the rules and limiting the time of play has created a new set of fans fevering for Banana Ball across the country, an impossibility in any structured league. As a result of the record crowds in Indianapolis, the minor league ballparks in this country will likely be replaced with larger major league venues. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos Courtesy of the Savannah Bananas Team owner Jesse Cole, who is at all games in a bright yellow tuxedo, believes this was the ideal time to play for the first time in front of a live audience. Due to COVID-19, the club had to become creative with things at the ballpark, even turning away 50,000 fans due to capacity restrictions at Grayson Stadium. “The first time the Bananas played the game with actual players was two years ago against a few different colleges. The college players said it was the most fun ever playing baseball; from that time, we began testing it, and tonight we tested it in front of our fans. When we put the game on sale in May, it shut down our servers and sold out in minutes. They are fired up to see what this game is all about.” Most of the rules would make baseball traditionalists blush, with a game prohibiting mound visits and bunting (a player will be ejected), stealing of first base on a passed ball, and if a batter steps out of the box (a strike is called). There are also no walks allowed, which means that on a fourth ball, the player can sprint to as many bases, while the catcher throws the ball to every positioned player. When the last fielder catches it, he can fire it to the proper base to tag the runner out. The rules were developed to help speed up the game and add a little punch to the night’s proceedings. “We played this on Tuesday, and I have never seen the players more into it,” Cole added.” There was a strategy, and it turned into a bang, bang play at third. The catcher fires the ball to first, second, short, and third. The fielders are moving; the runner is rounding second and then throws the ball to left field, right field, center field, and then to third for a play. It was wild and pretty crazy.” The first game of Banana Ball was an inter-squad game that pitted the Yellow Bananas versus the Green Bananas. The first inning saw many of these rules in action, including the sprint to first on ball four, which resulted in a four-base score for the green team. After the inning, the score was 4-1 for the road team, but in this crazy game, it was a 1-point lead. That is because every inning counts (the first rule in the game). The objective is to be the first team to score five points. It is accomplished by scoring the most runs per inning. If the home team is behind heading into their half of the inning, they can end it with a walk-off victory. If no team reaches the five-point mark by the end of 9 innings or 2 hours of play, it goes into a 1-1 showdown tiebreaker. Cole describes the tiebreaker as similar to penalty kicks in soccer and came up with the idea after hearing stories of Hall of Fame pitcher Satchel Paige ordering his position players off the field in hopes of striking out the batter. “This is one of the wildest things. You have the pitcher versus the hitter, and nobody is in the field; the hitter has to score. The pitcher can strike him out, get him to pop up, or there can be a play at the plate. It’s unbelievably exciting; both teams are standing on top of the dugout, going crazy.” Tonight’s game ended in such fashion, with the Green Bananas scoring 4 points heading into the tie-breaker. Needing only one point to secure victory, the green club smacked a liner (after the first batter walked) into the outfield for the walk-off win. Since they were all members of the home team, there was much celebration from everyone at the stadium. With only a few innings of the new rules being implemented, the rest of the game appeared to mirror a regular baseball game at the historic ballpark. The usual pre-game and in-between inning activities were on display from the baby banana ceremony, the Banana Nana's dance team, and the first pitch of a banana instead of a ball. This season, the club added a grandma coach who brings out a tray of tea and cookies, a luchador (professional wrestler) coach, fire breathers, stilt walkers, and a circus performer. Cole added that the club is still putting on a show and, despite the smaller crowd, the atmosphere looked and sounded just as boisterous as any other night where sell-out crowds are the norm. “I wouldn't be surprised if we play again sometime this summer based on the initial response and the buzz. There could be a demand to play the game in the fall or next year. When you tell guys that the game’s going to be fast-paced and within two hours, they're going to be out here. The idea of having an action-packed game with walk-offs and showmanship, the players are fired up about it.” Banana Ball may or may not take over the local ballpark, but it is the type of game that could make for a nice diversion from the national pastime. The Bananas organization is happy to be back playing ball this summer and adding a sense of normalcy to the community, no matter what type of baseball is played on the diamond. Baseball is back. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter, YouTube , and Instagram . You can also contact him at Marc.Viquez@StadiumJourney.com

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Levine-Fricke Field Centennial Drive Berkeley, CA 94720 California Golden Bears website Levine-Fricke Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 500 Softball in Secluded Splendor Sitting at the bottom of Strawberry Canyon lies Levine-Fricke Field. This small stadium features beautiful green hills surrounding the home of the 2002 National Champions. However, what you may not know is that this also is one of the more unique facilities at Cal Berkeley, and is a fan-friendly facility. A closer look reveals the beauty that exists here, as well as the potential for what could be. The school unveiled a brand-new stadium re-design and upgrade project several years ago that has been tied up in court, thanks to noise concerns from neighboring landowners. While the future, should it ultimately come to pass, looks bright, the current home of Cal Softball is one to be admired. Food & Beverage 3 The name of the game here is simplicity. The menu is short and sweet and that is perfect for the setting here at Levine-Fricke Field. Leading off are hot dogs ($6) and specialty sausages ($7). Nachos come in at $6 while candy, peanuts, corn nuts, and sunflower seeds cost $5. All drinks (soda, water, and Gatorade) also cost $5. Everything is served quick and hot, meaning you won’t be waiting forever for your meal. Atmosphere 4 The stadium is situated at the east end of campus, high above the rest of the school down below. Along the outfield are the verdant hills of Strawberry Canyon, providing a beautiful background for softball. Behind home plate are more trees, offering shade in the afternoon from the sun. The outfield seats are elevated to the top of the tall outfield fence line, meaning you have a great view of the entire playing field. The seating stretches from the left field foul pole to center field. Along center field’s outfield wall is also a standing-room-only area for fans as well. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is situated on Cal Berkeley’s campus itself. This is one of the country’s most historic and revered colleges, and the beauty of the campus is evident from the moment you set foot here. Just outside of campus is Berkeley, a college town that has everything from hotels (Residence Inn by Marriott and Hotel Shattuck Plaza are your closest options to campus) to restaurants and shopping. Shattuck Avenue and University Avenue both are full of shopping and dining options. Nearby fans can find hiking trails that lead from the softball stadium area up to the Big C on the hillside, overlooking the Cal football stadium. Fans 4 The Cal faithful love their softball. Even a weekday game against an in-state rival brings a respectable crowd for a mid-day matchup. Once there, they cheer and yell along with every big play. They’re sport-knowledgeable and know the roster and coaching staff like diehards. Access 3 The hardest part about getting to games here is the parking. On campus parking is limited, and if you were to find a spot, you will need to pay the meter or have a parking pass. Outside of campus there is metered street parking, but again this can be hard to come by. Fans likely are best off parking in a lot or garage off campus and walking from there. Getting to campus is also something that requires a lot of side streets, as there isn’t a highway exit immediately adjacent to the stadium. That said, heading due east from I-80 will get you there without an issue. There are parking lots on site for the softball games themselves, but as the lot is small and shared with the campus pool and rugby/soccer field, parking here is also limited. Return on Investment 5 Seats behind the home plate area cost $25 on weekends, while general admission in the outfield grandstands cost $20 (kids and senior tickets are $10 for general admission). On weekdays, admission is free to all fans. Coupled with low cost for concessions, watching top collegiate softball in a beautiful facility is a stellar value here. Extras 3 The left field wall in the outfield features a championship banner for the 2002 National Championship winning squad. There is also a free giveaways table at games, next to the concessions stand. Here, fans can get free posters and information on tickets for other Cal athletics events. Finally, down the left field line is a standing room only area where fans can get up close to the field of play for a unique field-level view, that isn’t offered at many other sports facilities for free. Final Thoughts Taking in a softball game at Levine-Fricke Field is a great option for fans looking to catch some Cal Golden Bears athletics action. The stadium is in a beautiful part of campus, and the weather is almost always stellar. With the affordability of tickets and concessions, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better softball facility in the Bay Area.

The baseball season is concluding for several North American leagues, many of which belong to the MLB Partner Leagues—four leagues with 50 teams that work with MLB to promote the sport but are not directly affiliated with MLB teams. This year’s rankings include the American Association, Atlantic League, Pioneer League, and Frontier League. Our rankings evaluate food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fans, access, return on investment, and unique extras. Official ratings determine the ranking, with crowd reviews as the tiebreaker. Here are the Stadium Journey Top 20 MLB Partner Leagues of 2024. 1. Duly Health and Care Field - Joliet Slammers (4.29) (Eric Hasman) - The ballpark experience for the adult fans of baseball. Duly Health and Care Field is tucked inside the streets of downtown Joliet, featuring wide open concourses and plenty of nice touches to set it apart from your standard baseball experience in the Chicago area. 2. Fairfield Properties Ballpark - Long Island Ducks (4.29) (Meg Minard) - Summer on Long Island can be a lot of fun with the beaches, piers, and boating. When on Long Island, be sure to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying a laid-back, entertaining nine innings with friends and family at the ballpark. 3. Meritus Field - Hagerstown Flying Boxcars (4.14) (Michael Rusignuolo) - Meritus Park could never fully replace Municipal Stadium in Hagerstown's hearts and minds, but it brings baseball into the new century there, with a gem of a modern park that seems tailored for its home. 4. Shaw Park - Winnipeg Goldeyes (4.14) (Marc Viquez) - The Winnipeg Goldeyes are a class act in the world of independent league baseball. The crowd support, enthusiasm, friendly staff, and all-around great time are what make visiting Shaw Park a great investment with your ballpark dollar. 5. Dehler Park - Billings Mustangs (4.14) (Meg Minard) - This is an excellent ballpark to visit, with the focus of entertainment on the ballgame while still providing modern conveniences, good food, and engaging fans. 6. Clipper Magazine Stadium - Lancaster Barnstormers (4.14) (Gregory Koch) - Although Lancaster has not had an affiliated baseball team for 60 years, that has not stopped the fans here from cheering for their local independent league team. You wouldn’t know from looking at Clipper Magazine Stadium that it’s Indy Ball rather than affiliated, and the experience here is as good as it is at many “real” minor league parks around the country. A Barnstormers game is a great experience and a great value for any fan. 7. Wellspan Park - York Revolution (4.14) (Richard Smith) - The York Revolution and Wellspan Park offer a nicely designed stadium with some interesting features that are sure to please both the serious and casual baseball fans. 8. Lindquist Field - Ogden Raptors (4.00) (Aaron S. Terry) - One of the best outfield views in baseball. A game at Lindquist Field for an Ogden Raptors game is a must for a baseball traveler. The stadium has majestic views, a friendly staff, and a fun atmosphere; it won’t break the bank, either. A Raptors game in Ogden absolutely checks all the boxes. 9. Impact Field - Chicago Dogs (4.00) (Marc Viquez) - Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and pushes the boundary for stadium design and aesthetics. The Chicagoland is a crowd with both major league and MLB partner league ballparks, and the Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. It has the potential to be one of the best in the MLB Partner Leagues. 10. Joseph L. Bruno Stadium - Tri-City ValleyCats (3.86) (Paul Baker) - The Joe remains a solid facility, and an excellent addition to the growing Frontier League. Here’s hoping that Capital District baseball fans realize that the ValleyCats remain as entertaining as ever, and that the baseball played on the field might actually be better than what they saw in their affiliated days. 11. Thomas Moore Stadium - Florence Y’alls (3.86) (Marc Viquez) - Thomas More Stadium is a small stadium that packs a big punch. It is a simple facility that makes up for it by offering free parking, local food, affordable prices, and a positive attitude. The use of the water tower and the phrase "Florence Y'all" is awesomely fun. If the Reds are not in town, take the short drive and watch the team play. 12. Crushers Stadium - Lake Erie Crushers (3.71) (Marc Viquez) - The Lake Erie Crushers are a refreshing reminder of community, tradition, and a love of the game. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball enthusiast or simply looking for a fun summer evening with the family, a trip to see the Crushers play offers an experience that’s both memorable and meaningful—and all just 30 minutes west of Cleveland. 13. Stade Canac - Quebec Capitales (3.71) (Paul Baker) - Quebec would never be considered a baseball city by most fans, but Les Capitales have been one of the more successful independent teams both on and off the field. A trip to historic Stade Canac is one worth taking for any ballpark chaser. Pair Stade Canac with a visit to its sister ballpark, Stade Quillorama in Trois Rivieres, and you have a terrific Stadium Journey. 14. Grizzlies Ballpark - Gateway Grizzlies (3.71) (Marc Viquez) - It is a marvelous little ballpark that has become one of the better ones in independent baseball. The ticket prices are affordable, the food is creative and fun, and promotional nights should attract fans to the stadium. When in St. Louis, there is more than one option for a baseball game. 15. Haymarket Park - Lincoln Saltdogs (3.71) (Paul Baker) - Haymarket Park is a nice facility located close to downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska. Sports fans visiting the area should be sure to check out nearby Memorial Stadium. Baseball fans will enjoy the mix of the ballpark’s small-town feel and modern amenities. 16. Clover Stadium - New York Boulders (3.57) (Paul Baker) -Clover Stadium is one of the nicer ballparks you’ll come across in your ballpark travels. Unfortunately, its location serves to keep it a hidden secret to many baseball fans. If this ballpark were located in a downtown area, it might be listed among the best in all of independent baseball. 17. Trustmark Park - Mississippi Mud Monsters (3.57) (Matt Colville) - The ballpark has fully embraced its new swamp identity. The iconic Ronald Acuna mural at the main entrance has been replaced with a massive, eye-catching giant catfish, setting the tone before you even step inside. 18. Northwest Medicine Field - Kane County Cougars (3.57) (Marc Viquez) - Northwestern Medicine Field is an older minor league ballpark with a main concourse that does not wrap around the ball field. However, the atmosphere is festive with food trucks, lawn seating down both foul lines, a KidZone behind right field, and three wooden party decks for large groups. 19. GoMart Ballpark - Charleston Dirty Birds (3.57) (Paul Baker) - GoMart Ballpark may not be the type of ballpark that makes anyone’s “Best Of” list. But it does many things well. It’s inexpensive, cozy, and thanks to The Toast Man and the cast of regulars in Section 107, incredibly entertaining. This ballpark suits the Atlantic League, the city of Charleston, and its baseball fans perfectly. 20. Newman Outdoor Field - Fargo Moorhead RedHawks (3.57) (Paul Baker) - Ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field and cities like Fargo are the backbone of minor league baseball. Boasting affordable prices, a friendly atmosphere, and a comfortable, fun place at which to watch a game, a trip to North Dakota is a worthy Stadium Journey for any baseball fan.

Images courtesy of the Indianapolis Indians The Indianapolis Indians will have a new look when they take the field in 2026. The ball club unveiled a new logo, uniforms, and caps Friday night. It marks the first time in 32 years that the club has made a change to its branding. The team has harkened back to a style that is reminiscent of images of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The following information comes from the club's official website. ​ The primary logo combines a traditional blackletter “I” with a red diamond from the team’s 1920s logo, encircled by a border inspired by the ribbon work of the Miami Nation of Indians, who collaborated on the overall design. This new look honors the team’s long history in Indianapolis while representing local Indigenous culture. Images courtesy of the Indianapolis Indians ​ The club will be wearing one of two caps, including the “INDY” monogram that is rooted in tradition. The interlocker letters are reminiscent of vintage baseball caps, scorecards, and team emblems. It is designed to honor the club's past while offering a modern edge. The blackletter “I” pays homage to baseball designs of the late 19th and early 20th century. ​ The home and alternative uniforms feature a new wordmark that draws inspiration from the early 20th-century sports lettering, with ornate serifs and high-contrast strokes. According to the team website, the large, dramatic blackletter “I” anchors the composition, establishing gravitas and vintage authenticity. The away uniforms are simple with INDPLS in arched block letters, evoking looks from the 1950s and 1960s. ​ Images courtesy of the Indianapolis Indians The team's new colors will include wrought iron blue, gold, sky blue, and cloud. The ball caps are solid blue for both home and away. The Indians will also release three new uniform collections: Circle City, Native American Heritage, and Negro Leagues. ​ According to the Indianapolis Star, the rebrand began in February 2023 when the team completed a year-long study on whether the franchise should keep the Indians name. They kept the name and partnered with the Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana. The partnership includes a Miami scholarship program, fan educational opportunities about Native American history, and a land acknowledgement statement that is read before the start of every home game. You can see it in the main logo’s diamond motif border that it is drawn in inspiration from traditional Miami ribbon work patterns and shows a shared commitment to accurately representing the Indigenous culture. The new branding was designed in-house by Adam Pintar, the team's senior director of brand, marketing, and communications. The old logo was patterned after Southwestern Native American imagery. The rebrand is a bold move for the Indians, who have stayed consistent with the same branding since 1993. Frankly, it was time for a change. The team has an array of looks and retro styles from its days as the farm club of the Montreal Expos, Cincinnati Reds, and Cleveland Indians for more than two decades. The new branding is a distinct style all its own. The club scores points for its nod to early typography, approval from the Miami Nation of Indians, and a jersey that will honor the tribe. ​ The Indians will celebrate 30 years at Victory Field on July 11, 1996, and include the motto: "Indy Indians: New Look, Same Team." ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Rogers Place 10220 104 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5J 4Y8 Edmonton Oil Kings website Rogers Place website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 18,437 The Kings of Edmonton Hockey Since the Oilers arrived in Edmonton in 1972, junior hockey has been a tough sell. The original Oil Kings, founded in 1950, moved to Portland in 1976 following steadily waning attendance. But after a couple aborted attempts to revive junior hockey, the newly incarnated Oil Kings seem to have finally found their place in the community. The Oil Kings returned to Edmonton for the 2007-08 season and have been have found an audience. Owned and operated by the Katz Group, which also owns the NHL’s Oilers, the Oil Kings are drawing good crowds, and winning consistently. In fact, the Oil Kings won the Ed Chynoweth Cup for the 2011-12 season and the 2013-2014 season, as top team in the WHL and went to the Memorial Cup as the Western representatives. The Oil Kings went on to win the 2014 Memorial Cup, making them the best junior team in Canada that season. The Oil Kings spent most of their history playing at what is currently known as Rexall Place (formerly Northlands Colosseum). But starting in the fall of 2016, the Oil Kings have relocated to the new downtown arena, called Rogers Place. It is the newest, most modern arena in the hockey and without a doubt the premier place to watch the WHL. At almost a half billion dollars, the new downtown arena has spared no expense in making sure every trip to the building is an event, over and above whatever sport or concert you’ve come to watch. A detailed consultation process was conducted with the fans during the design phase. As a result, the facility has many design features that reflect the experience the fans wanted to have. Food & Beverage 4 As compared to the options available at Rexall, the food choices are a definite improvement. Regular concession stands have a relatively small selection to choose from, but each location has a slightly different menu, so have a look around before you settle on something. You’ll find all the expected options, from hot dogs to burgers, fountain pop to bottled water. If you’re into burgers with everything, try the Bobby Nick’s Burger ($12). The Jasper Ave. Chicken Burger ($10) is also quite tasty. Most concessions also have some basic adult beverage choices, if you’re looking for a glass of Molson Canadian or Coors Light ($11.50). There are typically also a couple of premium options available as well. There are also a couple of specialty stands around the several levels of concourse that feature interesting fare such as perogy nachos, butter chicken and chick peas, or smoked brisket sandwiches. You’ll also find four Pizza 73 locations around the building. If you’re looking for something a little more special, there are a few more places to check out. In the lower concourse, available to fans in the lower bowl, there are two club-style areas known as the Coventry Homes Club and the North Mezzanine Club, complete with tables for fans to gather around between periods. The concessions in these areas have an upgraded menu with some more exotic selections. On the main floor concourse, you’ll find the Molson Canadian Fan Deck, just outside the side of the rink, with a full-service bar and more food choices. Fans in the PCL Loge Level have access to two more choices in the River Valley Grill and the Carvery. Overlooking Ford Hall, the main entrance to Rogers Place, is Curve Restaurant, which is a reservation-only location on this floor as well. Sky Lounge is a premium seating club on the west end of the upper concourse which has a special menu and in-seat beverage service. Directly below it is the Sportsnet Club which also features premium seating and a unique menu. Out in Ford Hall, and accessible before and after games, is the Molson Canadian Hockey House, yet another option for dining at the rink, with a full list of food and beverage options. When you put it all together, there are more restaurants in Rogers Place than there were within several blocks of Rexall Place. This is a major upgrade. But don’t forget your pocketbook as the food options in this building are the priciest in any arena in Alberta. Atmosphere 3 The arena is decorated with images from Oilers history, making it clear who the number one tenant of this arena is. Just to the west of the main entrance is a Wayne Gretzky statue that was relocated here from Rexall Place when the Oilers moved. Through the glass behind the statue you can see the Oilers Hall of Fame room, which features memorabilia from the Hockey Hall of Fame, located in Toronto, ON. All excellent stuff, but nothing to indicate that this is the home of the Oil Kings as well. Whether you enter Ford Hall from its main entrance, a block south of the main Rogers Place building, or through the main doors, this is a beautiful gathering area for fans prior to walking through the gates into the arena itself. Ford Hall is open year-round so folks visiting Edmonton’s downtown core can stop by and check it out. The main concourse is significantly wider than that of Rexall Place and several stories high, giving it an open, roomy feel. Once inside the seating bowl, you’ll also get a sense of spaciousness, from the wide seats (19”-22”, depending on where you’re sitting) and ample leg room to the significant elevation from ice level to the top of the upper bowl. Not that you have to worry about the upper bowl much anyway, as the Oil Kings don’t open the upper bowl most nights. With attendance usually in the 5,000-9,000 range, the lower bowl is more than adequate to house all the fans. If you go to one of the busier nights where the upper bowl is open, seats up there still don’t feel that far away from the game action, however, due to the upper levels being cantilevered out over the lower levels, bringing them much closer to the middle of the arena, giving even upper deck audiences a sense that they’re right on top of the game. The energy in the stands is also good. While the game is underway, ambient sound levels indicate a steady buzz of excitement, which can quickly spike when a goal is scored, a fight breaks out, or something else exciting happens. Neighbourhood 4 Rogers Place is situated on the north end of Edmonton’s downtown core. To the west of the rink is the main campus of MacEwan University. If you stick to those areas before and after games, you should have no troubles at all. North of the arena is a much less desirable part of town. Central McDougall isn’t the worst part of town, but you perhaps don’t want to find yourself alone after dark in that area. It is, in fact, hoped that setting Rogers Place up in that location will help to gentrify the neighbourhood, so this could improve over the next few years. Two blocks east and south of the arena is Sir Winston Churchill Square, a central gathering place for the city which is framed on three sides by Edmonton City Hall, the Art Gallery of Alberta, Winspear Centre for Music, and the main branch of the Edmonton Public Library. Very nice location to check out. On the southeast corner of Rogers Place is the Grand Villa Casino, so patrons of Rogers Place can stop in and try their luck at the slots or table games before or after seeing the Oilers. There are also two restaurants in the casino, adding to your dining options right in the main building. Match Eatery and Public House has a classic British Pub vibe, while Atlas Steak + Fish is a more upscale place. If you’re looking to grab a bite or a drink before or after games, you have a ton of good options within just a couple blocks of Rogers Centre. This again is a major upgrade compared to old Rexall Place. As noted above, you can always try the Molson Canadian Hockey House right in Ford Hall, if you want to eat right outside the main gates, or at Curve on the PCL Loge Level once the gates open. Across the street to the south west of Rogers Place is the Mercer Tavern which provides casual pub dining. Around the corner and sharing the same building is Rostizado , a Mexican eatery which is considered to be one of Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants. If you’re in the mood for steak, you can try the Chop Steakhouse. One of several Chop franchises around Canada, this is a good choice to satisfy your need for world-famous Alberta beef. Another good pub option is the Underground Tap and Grill, located just a block away from the Central LRT station. Underground features 72 beer taps, including the largest selection of Alberta-brewed beers in the province. If Italian food is your thing, there are a couple good choices. Pazzo Pazzo is a traditional Italian restaurant with all the dishes you’d expect to find. Just a couple blocks away you’ll also find Edmonton’s downtown Old Spaghetti Factory which also features a full Italian menu, including nine different spaghetti variations. Next door to the Old Spaghetti Factory is Haweli, which serves Indian food. If you’re looking for something a little spicier and more exotic, this is the place to try. Really, this is just scratching the surface. There are many, many more places nearby, from Harvey’s to Subway to Denny’s to Mikado Japanese to Sofra Authentic Turkish Cuisine and on and on. Fans 4 An average crowd for the Oil Kings is larger than the capacity of most WHL rinks, even if they rarely sell more than half the seats in Rogers Place. That level of enthusiasm for junior hockey is worth something all by itself. More than that, a large portion of the audience are wearing Oil Kings gear, showing their dedication to the team. Being a Canadian crowd these fans are hard core and they know their hockey. Crowd noise was good throughout the game, with the appropriate cheers and boos during exciting moments in the action. This shows them to be engaged with the game and attentive. Access 4 Getting to and from Rogers Place is fairly easy. There are almost 18,000 parking spots within a 10-minute walk of the arena. The Rogers Place website recommends that you use ParkingPanda.com to pre-purchase a spot to guarantee your place. This is probably a good practice to follow if you decide to make the drive downtown as there have been r umblings about price gouging for patrons who roll up to downtown parking without a reservation, with prices as high as $38 in some cases, although these extra-high prices have been for concerts and Oilers games, not Oil Kings games. The other popular option for getting to any sporting event in Edmonton is by way of the transit system. The MacEwan Light Rail Transit station is physically connected by a walkway to Rogers Place’s north side, while three other LRT stations—Bay Enterprise Square, Central, and Churchill—are all located within 10 minutes of the building. Transit tickets are $3.25 for adults, while children under five ride for free. Once inside Rogers Place, having five floors of concourse helps to spread people around a bit, although the luxury box and PCL Loge level concourses are underused, as you have to have a seat in that area to be granted access. The Mezzanine level and the main concourse remain busy between periods. With no one sitting in the upper bowl, there is generally nobody around the hallways up there either. Surprisingly, in a building as new as this, there are a number of pinch points in the flow of foot traffic around the concourses, some on the main floor, but also on the Mezzanine concourse, making the place seem much more crowded than one might expect. This could simply be a queuing issue as several concession washroom lines back up into the corridors and could be something that is solved over time by directing traffic more effectively. Speaking of the washrooms, lineups to both the men’s and women’s washrooms were surprisingly long considering that the arena was less than half full. As with the queuing challenges, this might be mitigated over time as fans figure out which washrooms have the least activity and begin to spread themselves around the building better. If there simply aren’t enough washrooms to adequately service the crowd, this may be a sore spot for people attending Rogers Place for years to come. Return On Investment 4 Oil Kings tickets run anywhere from $20 to $39, a bargain compared to Oilers tickets. That’s particularly the case since they’re basically all lower bowl seats that would cost 10 times as much to see an NHL game. You really can’t go wrong with the price for an Oil Kings game. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to see this shiny new arena, this is a great option. Extras 5 Over and above the hockey game, there are a ton of other things that add to the experience at Rogers Place. There is a Designated Driver program available onsite for fans that might have had a few drinks too many. This is an excellent idea that should be seen in more venues. Free Wi-Fi access is available to fans throughout the building, allowing fans to live Tweet games, check their emails and otherwise interact with the World Wide Web while onsite. Oil Kings mascot Louie the Lion helps keep the fans entertained around the arena, participating in giveaways during breaks in the action and making his way around the seating bowl to interact with the kids in the crowd. The Oilers Hall of Fame room, as mentioned earlier, is located right at the front of the building and can be seen through the glass by fans walking along the sidewalk in front of Rogers Place. Tours of the room are beginning in late 2016, allowing fans to get an even closer look at all the cool stuff in that space, including Wayne Gretzky’s rookie uniform and many other pieces of Oilers history. On the northeast corner of Rogers Place is the Edmonton Downtown Community Arena. Accessible from corridors inside the building, this arena is now home to the MacEwan University men’s and women’s hockey teams. It also serves as the Oilers’ and Oil Kings’ practice ice and it is also available as a public skating rink. There are TVs all over the building, so even if you step away from your seat for a few moments during a game, you can probably still keep an eye on the action from wherever you happen to be. Speaking of video, Rogers Place features the largest true HD scoreboard in the NHL (and NBA, if they played in Edmonton). At 14 metres wide by 11 metres tall, it dominates the space above the rink and provides a spectacular image from every angle. The Oilers Store can be found in a number of locations around the building giving fans an opportunity to stock up on all the Oil Kings and Oilers clothes and souvenirs they can carry. If you’re an art fan, Rogers Place has several special pieces for you. The floor of Ford Hall is adorned with a giant circular mosaic called Tsa Tsa Ke K’e (Iron Foot Place) by local artist Alex Janvier. The northwest plaza, adjacent to the MacEwan LRT station has a large sculpture called Essential Tree by realities:united, an art collective in Berlin. The northeast plaza features a red circular sculpture called Skater’s Arch by Saskatchewan artist Douglas Bentham. And directy above the main entrance to the Downtown Community Arena is a piece that combines sculpture and painting called 9 Figures In Motion With A Puck by local artist Al Henderson. As an added bonus, you’ll also find a cell phone charging stations in the concourse for Rogers Mobility customers with low batteries. Rogers Place is the first NHL rink in Canada to be LEED-Silver certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). This makes it one of the most environmentally friendly arenas in North America. Final Thoughts Rogers Place is a worthwhile place to visit even if you’re not there for a hockey game. There is so much to see and do in and around the building without ever walking through the gates that you could spend a couple hours just checking the place out. This is likely to only get better as more features get added over time. Once you’re through the gates, this is a beautiful building with truly state-of-the-art features that should impress most everyone. If you’re a hockey fan and you’re looking for the chance to see the newest, hottest arena in western Canada, Rogers Place is definitively a place to check out.

Paul Caputo is the host of the Baseball by Design podcast and contributor to the website SportsLogos.net . Tonight, we are talking about minor-league baseball logos and more! Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio   wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Monday on our social media streaming channels.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Chris Green, and Dan Will Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Busch Stadium 700 Clark St St Louis, MO 63102 St Louis Cardinals website Busch Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 50,345 Blending Cardinals History with Ballpark Charm Busch Stadium is the home of the St Louis Cardinals and is the third stadium with this name. It was built for the 2006 season and gave Cardinal Nation a “retro-classic” baseball stadium. The stadium does not break new ground in design or features. However, it provides fans with spectacular views of the Gateway Arch, has some of the best fans in baseball, and is next to Ballpark Village, which stretches across the street from the outfield. ​ The stadium has a capacity of 44,494 and includes 3,7606 club seats and 61 luxury seats. Red brick facades and exposed steel give the ballpark a classic feel, which was missing from its former venue, Busch Memorial Stadium. That previous stadium was a cookie-cutter multi-purpose venue that housed the team from 1966 to 2005. However, it was always considered perhaps the best of its kind. Busch Stadium III has everything fans want in a ballpark. It has already hosted two World Series championships in 2006 and 2011. Food & Beverage 5 Busch Stadium offers plenty of menu options that will blow your mind. There is everything from basic hot dogs and stadium nachos to Coca-Cola street tacos, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and mini donuts. The mini donuts are served in a helmet and topped with chocolate drizzle and sprinkles. I can't do this section justice, so you'll probably be better off clicking this   link   to see everything available at a St Louis Cardinals game. ​ Fan favorites include hot dogs, burgers, nachos, brats, fries, popcorn, and ice cream. There is also a selection of Budweiser products, including hard seltzers, as well as several local microbreweries in the area: Urban Chestnut, Schlafly, and 4 Hands Brewing Company. If you have a sweet tooth, the ballpark features soft-served ice cream, frozen custard, churros, donuts, and milkshakes. Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey For the more adventurous fans, there is a wide spectrum of items to choose from at the game. The Outfield Grill features brisket dogs, bacon cheddar dogs, and bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Big Chicken’s menu includes chicken tenders and Nashville chicken sandwiches. Stuie’s offers pastrami sandwiches and tops them on a hot dog, and Broadway BBQ slices smoked turkey, brisket, and pulled pork with all the fixings. ​ A few local eateries have locations at the ballpark. Session Taco brings a West Coast vibe to St. Louis. Options include the SoCal street dog, West Coast nacho fries, vegan soft tacos, and mango shrimp soft tacos. Mayo Ketchup by Plantain Girl delivers specialties from Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Menu items include arepas, Cuban sandwiches, and maduros —sweet, fried plantains. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere starts before the game, with fans gathering at Ballpark Village, outside the stadium, and at nearby bars, all decked out in Cardinal red or throwback colors. The festive environment is among the best in Major League Baseball. ​ The Budweiser Terrace bar opens before the game and features adult games and beer specials, encouraging fans to arrive early and socialize. Similar specials are available at the Budweiser Skyline Terrace Bar. ​ If you're with the little ones, the Hi-Chew Family Pavilion located on Level 1 between Gates 5 and 6 is an ideal way for the kids to get entertained. It is open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Kids can test their arm strength with the Speed Pitch, a virtual reality experience, and a play structure. You might even see the team's official mascot, Fredbird, roaming around the area offering hugs and photo ops. ​ Once you get to your seat to view the game, the focus is on the diamond. You can enjoy views of The Arch and Skyline from the back of home plate, take in festivities on the rooftops at the Ballpark Village, or simply enjoy the pleasant surroundings at the ballpark. Neighborhood 4 The Ballpark Village is across Clark Street from the stadium and offers various forms of entertainment for fans of all ages. The Dining and Entertainment District encompasses 150,000 square feet of retail, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Fans can also take games for many rooftop seating areas in the neighborhood, I find a more friendly feel. ​ The Ballpark Village houses the Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum, Cardinals Restaurant, Rooftop & Bar, FanDuel Sports Network Live!, Budweiser Brew House, and PBR. St Louis. Salt + Smoke BBQ is two stories high and overlooks Busch Stadium from our upstairs patio.  ​ Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The area is buzzing before and after the game, and it is a perfect way to cap off your night watching a Cardinals game. The Hall of Fame is also a must-see, perhaps before or the following day of a game; it highlights everything from the introduction of the famous “birds on bat logo”, World Series championships, and everything else in between. ​ The downtown vicinity also includes tourist attractions that include the Gateway Arch, Laclede's Landing, the Budweiser Brewery tour, and happening districts that include Wash Ave. and the landing, where Italian cuisine is among the best she'll have in the area. The City Museum is an interesting place to spend a few hours and is geared towards more adults than children. Fans 4 You might not find a more dedicated fanbase than in St Louis. The hometown Cardinals have been a staple since 1891, and there has been a collection of both Hall of Fame and All-Star players, 11 World Series titles, and magical moments that have made St. Louis one of the best baseball cities. The attendance ranks at the top of the major leagues and is well above the average for the past 20 seasons. The fans wear the “two birds on the bat logo” with pride on both shirts and jerseys. They support their team through both winning and lean years. Luckily for them, there have been a lot more winning seasons this century. Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Access 4 Busch Stadium is located downtown, but is directly off I-64, creating easy access by motorists to and from the ballpark. There are various public lots and garages within blocks of the stadium, and prices range from as high as $40 to as low as $20 for game night. There are 720 parking spots at the Ballpark Village, there is free meter parking after 7 p.m. on the streets, and fans can take the MetroLink light rail train for $3 a ride. ​ Once inside the stadium, fans have easy access to various concourses, but remember this is not the type of ballpark where you can buy a ticket and sit anywhere you want. Some ramps take fans to multiple levels of the stadium with ease, and bathroom exits and gift shop stores are easily marked throughout the concourses. Return on Investment 4 The Ballpark Village deserves a point for a very entertaining and meaningful experience before or after the game for all Cardinals fans. The Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum is a must for any type of sporting fan, and the little kids can enjoy playing on the miniature grass field a few steps away from the actual Stadium. Even if you don't want to dance or drink, the place is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the ambiance of a baseball game. ​ The 10 statues outside the main entrance of the stadium are worth viewing and taking photographs of. They include Stan Musial, Dizzy Dean, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock, and Bob Gibson, to name a few. There is even a statue of former St. Louis Browns Hall of Famer George Sisler. ​ Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey The ballpark offers a wonderful view of the Gateway Arch from behind home plate. The higher your seat is, the better the view of the skyline and iconic structures you'll have. There are many great downtown ballparks, and all of them include vivid imagery of the surrounding Skyline. ​ The final point is for the Budweiser Terrace. It is open to all fans and features a multi-level social space that includes two-service bars, lounge areas, and cabana seating. There is also an open-air barbecue grill, outdoor games for adults, and great views of the field and surroundings. Extras 4 The stadium features a viewing binocular stand in left field on the main concourse, allowing you to get a closer look at the other side of the stadium. The Cardinals also feature numerous giveaways and theme nights. In addition, outside the Gate 4 area, several statues of former players greet fans, making for a great photo spot. Finally, you can check out the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum. Final Thoughts Whatever Busch Stadium lacks in design and aesthetics, it makes up for it in atmosphere. It is your typical. The classic “retro-classic” design borrows all the elements from everything built after Camden Yards, but you are guaranteed to view baseball with the major league’s most adoring fanbase. Cardinal Nation will show you a fantastic time, and with reasonable ticket pricing, downtown vicinity, and Ballpark Village, it is easy to see why.

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 Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Delta Center 301 West South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84101 Utah Mammoth website Delta Center website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 16,200 (12,000 unobstructed seats) Arriving At The Delta Center The 2024-2025 NHL season found a longtime NHL team now operating out of a new home. This is a result of the relocation of the former Arizona Coyotes franchise to Salt Lake City, Utah. The relocation agreement results in the Arizona Coyotes name being protected in case a future franchise comes to the Valley of the Sun. The new management of the team decided to keep the team’s new name simple during its first year of operations in Salt Lake City. This means the team will use the Utah Hockey Club name during the 2024-2025 season. The team will conduct a name-the-team contest during this season, to involve its fans in the naming process. This means the blue and white color scheme of the uniforms and the use of the generic team’s name will be changed at the end of the season. Editor's Note:    The Utah Hockey Club was rechristened as the Utah Mammoth  prior to the 2025-2026 season. The new team in town will play in the Central Division of the Western Conference in the NHL. The Delta Center will serve as the new home ice for the Utah Mammoth. It opened in 1991 and has gone through several renovations over the years. There was some suggestion of building a new arena to house the hockey team, but this was seen as impractical, as no building sites were available in the downtown area, and the city did not have the funds to buy and build such a new facility. Due to a short timeline, the Utah Mammoth will undertake a remodeling process in the off-season to bring the Delta Center up to a much larger and more functional level. This should be easy to accommodate, as the Utah Jazz and the Utah Mammoth are owned by the same individual. Food & Beverage 4 The Delta Center offers a good mix of both local and national vendors in the concessions program. Pizza slices are available at both the Little Caesars and the Maxwell’s pizza stands. Ice cream and dairy products are offered at the Farr Better Ice Cream stand, Dippin Dots kiosks, and the Spilled Milk Ice Cream and Cereal Bar. Food with a 50’s fare is served at the Ice Berg Drive Inn stands. Alcoholic drinks are served at the Hop Shop and Craft Shop concession stands. The Salt City Smokehouse serves delicious BBQ. South of the border specialties are offered at the Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill and at Chile Verde. The J. Dawgs stand serves typical stadium/arena fare. This includes hot dogs ($9), fries ($6), Coca-Cola brand sodas ($8.50) and water ($5). The Delta Center recently announced a limited set of “fan favorite” menu items that will be available at reduced prices. Popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, and Farr’s ice cream bowls will each be priced at $3, while Dasani bottled water is being marked down to $2. Most of the food and beverage items are available by using the mobile ordering function on the Delta Center app. You order from your seats and are notified when your order is ready. This minimizes any time lost from watching the game and shortens the lines experienced at the concession stands overall. Atmosphere 3 After a gypsy existence in the Phoenix area over the last few seasons, the former Arizona Coyotes have settled into their permanent home at the Delta Center. While the Mullett Arena had nice amenities, it was severely undersized for a major league sports franchise. The Delta Center has been around for nearly 35 years, but it has undergone several major renovations over the years to keep up with the changes in the sports facilities industry. It offers comfortable 20-inch-wide seats, a state-of-the-art scoreboard at center ice, and a video board in each of the four corners of the facility. The concourses are open towards the ice, so you do not miss much of the action when you visit one of the concession stands. The atrium at the front of the Delta Center is expansive enough to hold the large crowds upon arrival so that fans can get in from the wintry elements very quickly. We would give an even higher score to this element of the Delta Center, but there is one glaring negative, which will be addressed at the end of the 2024-2025 hockey season. The seating bowl has never been used in a hockey configuration before, resulting in some obstructed views for seats at the two ends of the ice. There was not sufficient time when the franchise was moved to address this issue. However, immediately after the inaugural hockey season ends, the Delta Center will make the needed adjustments in time for future seasons. Neighborhood 5 The Delta Center is located just west of downtown Salt Lake City. It is located at the corner of West Temple and John Stockton Drive. It is surrounded by several older buildings, some small shops, and some city services. The owner of the team is working closely with city officials to redevelop the district with more residential properties, as well as amenities like banks, shops, and schools. The area around the Delta Center offers many activities within walking distance of the venue. Lodging is available at the Radisson Hotel/Salt Lake City Downtown, the Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown, or the Courtyard Downtown Salt Lake City. Nearby attractions include the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, as well as Temple Square, the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The Utah Sports Hall of Fame is just a short walk from the Delta Center. The neighborhood around the arena also offers a wide variety of dining options before or after the game. Restaurants within walking distance of the arena include the Copper Canyon Grill House and Tavern and the Adelaide Urban Brasserie. Both the Squatter Pub Brewing Company and the Red Rock Brewery are located within a few blocks of the Delta Center. Fans 4 The fans in Salt Lake City have welcomed the former Coyotes with open arms. Typically, a new city comes into the NHL via the expansion route, which takes years to build a competitive program. Since the team arrived through relocation, the Utah Mammoth bypassed the longer developmental route and has a team of veterans who have played together for years. The quick sellout of season ticket packages is indicative of the high level of interest in hockey in Salt Lake City. The team has also benefitted from the fact that it is only the second professional team in the city. It only faces the NBA Utah Jazz as competition for the major sports dollars in the area. Another positive aspect of the team’s fanbase is that a sizable portion of the local population has grown up playing the game and is knowledgeable about the sport. Salt Lake City is a winter sports city, as evidenced by hosting the Winter Olympic Games twice in the recent past. This means there is not a major learning curve for the fans with the arrival of an NHL franchise. The team’s decision to let the fans get involved with the naming of the team has been very well received. The team has “ballot boxes” and other voting options available to fans to voice their support for one of the many names proposed for the team. This has created a definite feeling of “buy-in” between the team and its fans. The Delta Center has a longtime reputation as one of the loudest venues in professional sports. Access 5 Utah uses the Seat Geek ticketing system for entry into the Delta Center. No matter what vendor you purchase your tickets from, the seats must be available on the Seat Geek app at the door. Doors at the arena open 90 minutes before the opening puck drop. The Trax light rail system has a station practically at the front door of the Delta Center. The station serves both the blue and green lines. It is the most cost-effective way to get to the arena, as the system is free within the downtown zone or only $2.50 per ride if coming in from the outside areas of the city. The Delta Center is just a couple of blocks from the intersections of I-15 and I-80 for fans coming from outside the Salt Lake City area. Return on Investment 3 Attending a Utah Mammoth game during the 2024-2025 season is an expensive proposition. The team almost immediately sold out their season tickets package when they went on sale. More than 11,000 season ticket packages were sold in just four hours. This left just over 5,200 single-game tickets available per game. As a result, the tickets are extremely expensive due to the laws of demand. These premium-priced tickets result at the end of the ice seats going for $230, with seats in the lower-level corners being priced at $552. Center ice tickets are $210. You should avoid buying tickets in sections 107-137 and 117-127, if possible, as these sections will only have a partial view of the ice. This issue will be addressed after the 2024-2025 season through a restructuring of the seating bowl that will address the sight lines for people seating in the above sections. Another cost of attending a Utah Mammoth game is getting to the venue. The Delta Center’s immediate parking area is reserved for season ticket holders. There are more than 10,000 parking spaces located within a few blocks of the Delta Center. These lots can be found at the City Creek Center, Park Place, and the Triad Center. These lots operate on a prepurchase basis, with reserved parking available through the Delta Center app. A much more convenient and cost-effective solution in getting to a game is to take the TRAX light rail system. There is a TRAX rail station located in front of the arena. The TRAX system operates within a free fare zone; this would allow you to ride free of charge if you did not leave the immediate area. Rides for fans that do go outside of these zones will only pay the $2.50 standard fare. Extras 4 The Delta Center hosted several events during the 2002 Olympics. Among the competitions held were the U.S. Figure Skating Championship and the short-track speed skating event. Salt Lake City has hosted two minor league hockey programs in the past. These include both the Salt Lake Golden Eagles and the Utah Grizzlies , who play in the Maverick Center in West Valley City. The Delta Center is energy efficient, as there are more than 2,500 solar panels on the roof of the arena. Salt Lake City will once again be hosting the Winter Olympic Games in the winter of 2034. It was chosen because it already has most of the facilities in place, offers excellent air connections from around the world, and has the support of more than 80% of Salt Lake City residents. Final Thoughts Salt Lake City has welcomed the former Coyotes with open arms and an arena that is much better suited to handle the large crowds the Utah Mammoth is attracting in its new hometown.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium 2235 N Campus Dr Evanston, IL 60208 Northwestern Wildcats website Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 12,023 My Old Temporary Home Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium serves as the temporary home for Northwestern Wildcats football while their old stadium is being rebuilt, and as temporary homes go, this facility is actually pretty amazing. Lake Michigan wraps around the venue on the east and north sides, and there is almost a carnival-like atmosphere here during football games, complete with food trucks and street vendors. The only potential drawback is that, due to the construction of other campus buildings right next to stadium on the west side, getting in and out is a little bit of a chore.   Food & Beverage   4 The concessions under the temporary stands on the north and south sides offer very basic fare, such as hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, chips, candy, and peanuts, as well as soda and bottled water, plus premium and domestic beer.  Prices for all these items range from $3.49 (chips) to $6.99 (pretzels), except for beer which runs $10.99 to $12.99. However, there is also a hot dog vendor along the water behind the east stands, selling real Chicago-style dogs for $9 with all the traditional toppings a Chicago dog is supposed to have, including hot peppers, as well as bottled water and a few small snacks. In addition, there are also several food trucks set up in the northwest corner offering up Mexican, chicken, and BBQ/soul food, among other options – all in all an above average selection for a short-term venue.   Atmosphere   4 The best thing about this venue is the water – you can see great views of Lake Michigan, especially from the south and west stands, and you can also walk along the path on the east side, right along the water, and take a look at the boats in the harbor, or look at the myriad painted rocks, a tradition among Northwestern students. The Wildcats staff also does some unique things to keep fans engaged – while most stadiums cover the basics like tossing out t-shirts, Northwestern takes in up a notch with a burrito toss (very well-wrapped burritos, thankfully), and instead of things like a Kiss Cam or a Flex Cam, the Wildcats do a Wacky Wavy Crazy Inflatable Cam, which certain fans really get into.   Neighborhood   4 Evanston, Illinois is about 20 miles from downtown Chicago, which obviously has a ton to see and do, but if you want to stay closer to Northwestern’s campus, and also want to avoid Chicago’s infamous traffic, Evanston boasts a few parks, a lighthouse, and several obscure museums. For example, Halim Time & Glass Museum displays historic timepieces and stained-glass windows, while The American Toby Jug Museum boasts drinkware shaped like famous people, such as world leaders and US presidents, or celebrities such as Elvis. There is also an Indigenous Nations Museum, as well as a few others – any of these would be a great way to spend a few hours while in town to see the Wildcats. If you are looking for Chicago-style deep dish pizza, go no further than Giordano's – their pizza is so good we went there twice while I was in town for the weekend. Also try their broken cannoli, basically a deconstructed cannoli with the cream piled in the center and broken shell pieces used for dipping; a lot easier to eat than the regular version, and great for sharing. I would not recommend Gino’s East. If you aren’t feeling like pizza, I would recommend Italian beef from Buona’s, although many other restaurants in the area offer it as well, including Giordano's.   Fans   3 Northwestern Wildcats fans are pretty solid, with tons of purple being worn inside the stadium, but you will also see plenty of opposing fan colors. In addition, the fans here are not as diehard as some, meaning you will see the stadium get pretty empty pretty early (at least in terms of home fans) during a losing effort, especially in the student section. The student section at Martin Stadium is also not as rambunctious as it was at Ryan Field, mostly because there is not enough room for all the students to get in – because of the smaller size they don’t allow freshmen to attend, although they can wait in a standby line to get a ticket if the other classes don’t fill up their quota. View from the Student Section - Photo courtesy of Jonah Lee Access   2 This section is where Martin Stadium has a tough row to hoe – because of the construction right next door, anyone sitting on the south side will have to walk all the way around through some pathways set up with construction fencing, and getting in on the northwest side is not much better. On the plus side, once you are inside the stadium you can walk along the water, and the walk in from the south stands does take you by some great fountains in the center of what they call The Lake Fill, a little inlet just south of the venue. The other downside is if you are sitting in the north stands, you might have to walk up quite a few stairs to get to your seat – the temporary stands on that side are much, much taller than those on any other side.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets to Northwestern Football games are very expensive – because they are in the Big 10 Conference they play a lot of well-known teams, meaning most games are sold out. This means you may have to pay a premium on third-party sites, maybe $150 or more, for a single ticket to the game. Parking is also very expensive – there is no place to park near Martin Stadium unless you have a pass (there are No Parking signs on all the nearby streets), and even some of the official parking locations are 4 miles away. I personally paid well over $100 for a parking space about 2/3 of a mile from the stadium, and you could easily pay more. I had a great time while I was there – I greatly enjoyed walking along the lake and looking at the painted rocks, but you could do that without going to the game. So it all depends if you are willing to pay that much for a ticket; you will definitely have a great time if you do go, however.   Extras   3 For some games they have a block party in the area just south of the facility, like when one of the bigger contests is being televised on one of the major networks. They also have a team gear stand (two of them actually, right next to each other), in the northwest corner. There is also a lot of purple to be seen, especially because the netting wrapped around the temporary stands on the north and south sides is that color, so it kind of looks like most of the outside of Martin Stadium is done in purple.   Final Thoughts I would definitely recommend a visit to Martin Stadium to see Wildcats football, although it won’t be around much longer as a football venue, given that re-built Ryan Field is supposed to open in time for next season. Martin Stadium definitely gives you the feel of a state fair, and the views of Lake Michigan are spectacular.

The future of sporting events at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena is uncertain, as a new study may recommend redeveloping the arena and neighboring Miller High Life Theater for uses like a large convention hotel. ​ The 75-year-old arena, once home to the Milwaukee Bucks until 1988, currently hosts the Milwaukee Wave of the Major Arena Soccer League, the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League, and the UW-Milwaukee Panthers men's basketball team. Each tenant maintains a lease, with the Panthers' lease set to expire in July 2029. ​ The arena and theater sit across the street from the Baird Center convention facility, and all three are operated by the Wisconsin District that recently hired a consulting firm to create a master plan for the site. The plan, along with the long-term maintenance cost of the arena and theater, was finalized in January. It is this time that a convention-oriented hotel could be presented on the site for construction. ​ While the city has long wanted a convention hotel to boost event hosting, the potential redevelopment raises questions about where the arena's current tenants could go. Relocating the Milwaukee Wave and Milwaukee Admirals to the nearby Fiserv Forum would complicate scheduling during busy seasons. ​ ​The UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena has a capacity of between 9,500 for hockey and indoor soccer, and 11,000 for basketball. The Fiserv Forum has a capacity of 15,000 for hockey and soccer, and 17,000 for basketball, much larger than what would be expected for these three teams' attendance figures. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey I find myself at the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, a tournament that has been around since 1913, for the first time in several years. That changed last week when I went to see the Indy Eleven take on San Antonio FC at the Butler Bowl on the campus of Butler University. The two USL Championship foes find themselves in the round of 32 teams, with the winner advancing to the next round to play. The Bud & Jackie Sellick Bowl  is not Indy’s home venue, due to commencement ceremonies at Carroll Stadium on the campus of IUPUI, placed the game here. The Butler Bowl is home to Butler's football team but can serve as a soccer pitch, albeit with gridiron marks.  It was the second time the club played a US Open Cup match at this location, and hopefully, they could pull out a victory and play again at home in a few weeks. That game would be back in familiar surroundings at Carroll, but will the change of venue make a difference in the team's play? Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The ample crowd barely reached their seats when Eleven's Augustine Williams scored with only two minutes to play. Initially stopped by the goalkeeper, the ball found its way across the line. It resulted in a cloud of red and blue smoke from the supporters group The Brickyard Battalion at the other end of the field.  Fans did not have to wait much longer as Indy tallied its second goal only eight minutes later off the foot of Jack Blake. This time a massive puff of smoke descended to the skies and through the stands. It appeared that it would be a night of goals, but that would be it as neither team found the back of the net for the next 80 minutes. Between the goals and the final whistle, there were several more shots at goals, cheering from the BYB, a few near misses at the net, silently fewer pleasantries from the opposing players leaving the pitch at half-time, and Indy XI players signing autographs and high-fiving fans after the match. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Indy's next opponent will be Detroit City FC at home on May 22. If they win they will take on the New Mexico United or New York City FC II. Do the Eleven have the legs to make a run in the tournament and capture the $300,000 in prize money and a trip to the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Who will get there is anyone’s guest? MLS clubs have dominated since their introduction in 1996, only losing once to a second-division side in the finals. The USLC Sacramento Republic FC made it to the final game in 2022 before losing to the Orlando City of the MLS. The USL Championship has 9-teams, MLS has 6, and MLS Next Pro has one club remaining in the tournament.  Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Open Cup games are interesting bags of treats. In some cities, the games are not highly marketed and many fans might overlook the fact that they are not league games scheduled for weekend bouts. The mid-week games don't bring out huge crowds at times, but as each team moves closer to the finals, the crowds do come out. The Detroit City faifthful do enjoy these types of games and will make their presence felt in Indianapolis where a rowdy supporters group will try to outduel the BYB on the other side of the pitch. For the fans, the US Open Cup offers a chance to see USLC clubs battle MLS members on their home turf. It is a rare opportunity when the top two divisions play one another. It also provides an extra game of soccer to watch at your club’s regular grounds or somewhere else in the city. Be on the lookout for the next few months, as the tournament continues until the final match on September 25. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

The WNBA built on its record-setting 2024 season with an even bigger and better 2025 season. 2025 featured more games in bigger arenas, more sellouts, a new franchise in San Francisco, the announcement of four new teams to join the league in the coming years, greater exposure, ratings, and attention. However, there are clouds on the horizon. Rumors of sale and relocation dogged the Connecticut Sun franchise all year. When a local owner was found and announced plans to move the team to Boston and the TD Garden, the league stepped in to announce that league bylaws dictated that the ownership group from the failed Houston bid may get priority to purchase and move the franchise. Also, with the CBA expiring at the end of October, there is a real possibility of a protracted work stoppage that may affect the 2026 season. At the moment, the two sides seem far apart on many key issues. But right now, the playoffs are in full swing, and a new champion will soon be crowned. In keeping with the playoff atmosphere, Stadium Journey is proud to present our rankings of 12 of the 13 WNBA arenas. (Sorry, Golden State, we were not able to get out to your new arena this summer) These rankings are based on Stadium Journey ’s patented FANFARE rating scale, which evaluates each venue across seven key categories: 🍔 Food & Beverage Options 🎉 Game Day Atmosphere 🏙️ Surrounding Neighborhood 🙌 Fan Support 🚗 Access (inside and outside the park) 💸 Return on Investment 🧩 Extras - Unique features that don’t fit neatly into the other categories or deserve additional acknowledgement When two or more venues earn the same score, the Stadium Journey Council of Elders  steps in to break the tie with their seasoned insight. To dive deeper into each stadium’s review, just click the link associated with the team’s name. Enjoy the rankings - and see where your favorite arena lands! We expect that our list will spark a great deal of debate, and after all, that's what lists like these are designed to do. Share your opinions on our social media pages. We're on Facebook, X, and Instagram. 1.     Climate Pledge Arena – Seattle Storm 4.29 Marc Viquez - Climate Pledge Arena is a building that stands out among the rest of the WNBA and the nation. The interaction with fans and the team provides an ideal atmosphere for a first-time visitor, and the neighborhood is worth spending a few hours at before or after the game. When you add free mass transportation to the game, visiting the building is a must in Seattle. 2.     Gainbridge Fieldhouse – Indiana Fever 4.29 Marc Viquez - The Fever might be the hottest ticket in town since Caitlin Clark arrived in 2004. They are among the leaders in league attendance figures, along with increased support from the area. The playoff run this season, with the services of Clark, has gone well with both old and new fans of the team. Gone are the days of the closed balcony sections and lukewarm response. 3.     Target Center – Minnesota Lynx 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The stands fill as quickly as the Target Center doors open, as fans do not even want to miss the warmups. Be sure to look up at all the various championship banners the Lynx have earned at the Target Center over the years. It is a great way to get fired up before the game even starts. 4.   Barclays Center – New York Liberty 4.14 Paul Baker - It’s been a long time since New York City has seen a hoops title, and fans are showing their appreciation to the Liberty with unprecedented support. Brooklyn sports fans are proud to call this squad their own, and you can expect to see the team supported with open arms and full throats when you visit the Barclays Center. 5 .     PHX Arena – Phoenix Mercury 4.00 Meg Minard - Attending a Mercury basketball game is an enjoyable afternoon/evening out. If you haven’t been to the arena in a while, come check out some summer hoops at PHX Arena in downtown Phoenix.   6.      Crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles Sparks 4.00 Andrei Ojeda - L.A. Sparks basketball is the type of entertainment that is perfect for that type of fan who wants to see some great basketball action live without leaving a huge hole on the wallet.  They provide quite an entertaining professional basketball experience.   7.     Michelob Ultra Arena – Las Vegas Aces 3.86 Lloyd Brown - You are going to have a great time at a Las Vegas Aces game at the Michelob ULTRA Arena. Terrific basketball, Vegas-style entertainment during the breaks, and easy access to food, drink, and gambling add up to a very entertaining evening! 8.     CareFirst Arena – Washington Mystics 3.86 Gregory Koch - The Washington Mystics are drawing sellout crowds to CareFirst Arena nearly every game and seem to be outgrowing their home there very quickly. Someday soon, they may move back to Capital One Arena, but for now, a Mystics game at CFA is a great experience. 9.     Mohegan Sun Arena – Connecticut Sun 3. 71 Paul Baker - While the Mohegan Sun Arena is a fine facility, it seems like the rapid growth of the WNBA has rendered it obsolete. With its smaller capacity, lack of premium amenities, and location far from a major city, the Sun has been put up for sale and has been searching for a new home. It seems the Sun is setting on the Mohegan Sun Arena. 10 .     Wintrust Arena – Chicago Sky 3.57 Lloyd Brown - The Wintrust Arena is a worthy home court for a championship team. It has excellent views of the game action from any of its seating areas and features a wonderful audiovisual package, with a huge center-hung video board. It has easy access for fans, as it is located on multiple bus and train routes in a city that lives on public transit. 11.   Gateway Center Arena at College Park – Atlanta Dream 3.29 Lloyd Brown - The Atlanta Dream finally has a home of its own for the first time in its 15 years of existence. It is working closely with its neighbors to make professional sports more accessible to communities on the Southside of Atlanta. 12.   College Park Center – Dallas Wings 3.14 Lloyd Brown - The Wings home at the College Park Center is easy to get to from almost anywhere in the Dallas metroplex. It provides the team with an arena that is right-sized for the average WNBA crowd. There is little or no evidence that the arena primarily serves as a college sports venue, as the team’s blue and green color scheme is carried throughout the facility for their home games.

Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views is back and we're heading to the Sunshine State! With the MLB season winding down, Dave and Paul bring in special guest Richard Smith to breakdown the phenomenon that is loanDepot Park, home of the much maligned, Miami Marlins. How could a place so new have so many changes? Did the short-lived tenure of Derek Jeter do anything to help this place? Can MLB survive in Miami? Grab a beer and take in the latest episode! You can find Stadium Journey's review of loanDepot Park and the Miami Marlins game day experience here.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Hank McCamish Pavilion 965 Fowler St Atlanta, GA 30332 Atlanta Dream website Hank McCamish Pavilion website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: 8,600 The Dream is Still Alive in Atlanta Atlanta continues to be a city where dreams are made, as its sports community continues to thrive. Two new stadiums have been built in the last two years, and Philips Arena is undergoing a massive renovation. The Atlanta United soccer franchise draws more than 72,000 per game and the Super Bowl heads to the city for the 2019 game. As the name of Atlanta’s WNBA entry attests, the dream is also alive for the women of Atlanta. The team is the only Atlanta professional sports franchise totally owned by women. The team has relocated to Georgia Tech’s McCamish Pavilion arena for the 2016-2018 seasons as their permanent home, Philips Arena , undergoes a $143 million renovation. The Dream will return to Phillips Arena following the 2018 season. McCamish Pavilion was renovated in 2012 and has received excellent reviews for its state of the art design and technology. The capacity of the arena is 8,600 and it features two tiered levels of seats with 6,935 lower level seats and 1,665 balcony level seats. The facility is high tech in a number of ways. It features a lighting system which spotlights the playing court while dimming the lighting in the seating areas, providing a theatre-like effect focus on the game. The McCamish Pavilion also has a 360-degree ribbon board encircling the arena and an enhanced scoreboard with HD graphics. Food & Beverage 3 McCamish Pavilion has six concession stands, with four located on the lower concourse and two located on the balcony level. The facility has an open concourse with more than 50 TV’s, so you will not miss any game action while getting your food and beverages. In addition to the six generic concession stands, the arena also features a Sonny’s BBQ stand and a Smash Burger outlet. A quick review of the menu and prices you can expect at a Dream game: hot dogs ($6), sausages ($7), pretzels ($5), popcorn ($5), peanuts ($5), and nachos ($7). Sonny’s BBQ sandwiches are $7 and Smash Burgers are $8. All beverages are Coca-Cola products (the World HQ is just three blocks from the arena) and sodas are $4, bottled water is $4 and frozen lemonade is $5. Alcoholic beverages may only be purchased and consumed within the private Callaway Club in the arena. This is due to the arena belonging to the Georgia University System. Atmosphere 4 The Georgia Tech basketball arena long ago adopted the moniker of “The Thrillerdome” after two magical Final Four runs, when the team won several games in buzzer-beater fashion. It is a name that has stuck with the McCamish Pavilion. The Dream is doing its best to carry the Thrillerdome aura into the WNBA with its up-tempo brand of basketball. The move to a smaller arena has only increased the intimidation factor as nearly every game is a full house. Also, the acoustics of the facility is designed to hold in the noise and the Dream fans, the Shooting Stars cheer squad, team mascot Star and longtime PA announcer Vince “The Voice” Bailey are doing their best to drive up the energy level during an offensive run or a good defensive stand. The dramatic lighting now used at the McCamish Pavilion makes it clear that the action on the court is the star here. It truly feels more like a professional arena than a college arena. Neighborhood 4 There are really three distinct neighborhoods surrounding the McCamish Pavilion. It is located at the very north end of the Georgia Tech campus. Basically, its neighbors in this regard are athletic facilities, including the Byers Tennis Complex, the Georgia Tech football practice facility and Russ Chandler Stadium, home of the Yellow Jacket baseball program. Across the downtown, Connector is the Midtown neighborhood. The Georgia Tech campus has expanded into this area in recent years, but it is primarily an area filled with trendy restaurants such as South City Kitchen, Ecco, and STK Atlanta. One longtime Tech favorite is the Varsity, the world’s largest drive-in. Though not the healthiest food in the world, presidents, world leaders and sports icons have stopped in to enjoy its greasy fare. The last neighborhood bordering the arena is the West Atlanta / Atlantic Station area. Atlantic Station has transformed a former brownfield site into a very successful mixed use development filled with parks, apartments, movie theatres and even Atlanta’s only IKEA store. Adjoining Atlantic Station is the West Atlanta neighborhood, a former industrial corridor that is very popular with millennials. It includes a number of Atlanta’s hottest restaurants, such as Miller Union, JCT. Kitchen and Bar and the West Egg Café. Fans 4 The Dream has established a very loyal following over their first decade in the WNBA. You will notice a very high percentage of the crowds at the games are women. Obviously, this is due in part to it being a women’s basketball team. The Dream goes way beyond that in focusing its marketing and community involvement efforts on women of achievement and women’s issues. Each game honors women and women’s organizations that are improving their community. The team is also very involved in such issues as breast cancer awareness and treatment, LGBTQ rights and encouraging the inclusion of more girls’ sports teams in the schools. As a result of these efforts, the community has become the “sixth woman” for the team. They bring an energy and enthusiasm to the arena that picks up the team during a tough game and also makes it hard for the opposition to concentrate due to the volume of cheers coming from the stands. Access 3 McCamish Pavilion is located conveniently right off Interstates I-75/I-85 (also known to locals at the Downtown Connector) as they pass through the center of Atlanta. You would take either the 14th Street or North Avenue exits to reach the arena. The parking directly adjacent to the arena on campus is reserved for season ticket holders, but there are a number of commercial lots located on the east side of the Downtown Connector within an easy walking distance of the McCamish Pavilion. A second less costly alternative to getting to a game is the MARTA rapid rail system to the Midtown MARTA station, then walk four short blocks up 10th Street to McCamish Pavilion. Entry into the McCamish Pavilion is through one of three main portals, with a very good flow and adequate ticket takers. Once inside you will find the concourses to be very wide, so you should not encounter any gridlock. The concessions are built into the sides of the building so they do not cause any congestion. The number of restrooms is more than adequate. You will find the seating at McCamish to be quite comfortable as it features chair backs with wider than normal space. Return on Investment 3 Dream basketball tickets are sold at prices ranging from $36 for end zone seats to $60 for sideline seats. Parking close to McCamish runs $10-$15, but by using MARTA to the game you can bring that cost down to $5 per person roundtrip. Concessions at McCamish Pavilion are reasonably priced. Atlanta is a convention city, so downtown area hotels can run in excess of $250/per night. It is a good idea to stay in a suburban location hotel and then take MARTA or drive into the game. Extras 3 A majority of Atlanta’s main tourist attractions are less than three miles from McCamish Pavilion. The following are located in a cluster around Centennial Olympic Park: the College Football Hall of Fame, the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, the Center for Civil and Human Rights and CNN Center. Simply go three stations past the Midtown MARTA station and get off at the Peachtree Center Station, then walk two blocks west. This marks the second time that a Georgia Tech basketball arena has substituted for another team’s home court. In 2008, a tornado struck the Georgia Dome during the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament. This forced the tournament to be moved to the then Alexander Memorial Coliseum for the remainder of the tournament. Ironically that tournament was won by a huge underdog….. the University of Georgia Bulldogs….. Georgia Tech’s most bitter athletic rival. The Atlanta Dream team name was inspired by one of its best-known citizens. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was an Atlanta native and a civil rights icon. His “I have a dream” speech is one of defining moments in the civil rights movement. Final Thoughts While most people would think a temporary relocation would adversely affect a team, the move to McCamish Pavilion has been a positive one for the Atlanta Dream. Its more intimate setting, the dramatic lighting of the playing floor, and a Midtown location that is in the backyard of its most ardent fans have added up to a very successful move.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Gillette Stadium 1 Patriot Place Foxborough, MA 02035 New England Patriots website Gillette Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 64,628 The Patriots’ Place   A strong case can be made that the New England Patriots are the most successful team of the Super Bowl era. They have won six Super Bowls and played in nine overall. Recent years have seen the team return to the depths of the NFL standings as the team moves on from the Brady/Belichick dynasty. Patriots fans hope this decline does not mimic the franchise’s early years when they were one of the league’s most dysfunctional teams, consistently landing at the bottom of the standings and making headlines for all of the wrong reasons.   The early Patriots were nomads, roaming around Boston and beyond, looking for a home. Nickerson Field , Harvard Stadium , Fenway Park , and Alumni Stadium  all served as home fields during the team’s formative years. The Patriots even played home games in Birmingham, AL  and San Diego, CA. When the team built itself a permanent home, it was the substandard Schaefer/Sullivan/Foxboro Stadium . Relocation rumors hounded the team for years until Robert Kraft, a longtime fan and season ticket holder, bought the team and stadium in the 90s.   In 2002, Gillette Stadium, a $325 million privately funded stadium, opened right next door to its predecessor. The Patriots immediately began to make the area not only a football venue, but an entertainment, dining, and shopping destination. In 2006, construction began on Patriot Place, an open-air shopping center located adjacent to the stadium. Patriot Place has proven to be so successful that imitators have begun to sprout up at stadiums around the country and have become almost a standard feature in new stadium designs.   Food & Beverage 4   With an active tailgating scene and dozens of dining choices located just steps from Gillette Stadium’s front door, you may not expect much from the facility’s concessions. While Gillette Stadium may come up short on signature food items and high-end options, expanding variety and upgrading quality have been a focus in recent years.   Stands are located around the outer edge of the Gillette Stadium concourse, organized by the types of foods they offer. You may have to do a little searching to find what you want. All the stadium basics are covered, with stands that sell pizza, burgers, sausages, chicken tenders, and BBQ ringing the field. Portable carts selling drinks and snack foods line the inner edge of the concourses.   Pepsi products are featured at Gillette Stadium. As you may expect, the beer game is strong here, with national brands lining the menu boards alongside dozens of local craft favorites. For the most extensive selection of local beers, check out the Taproom or Draft Kings Lounge.   A complete guide to Gillette Stadium’s concessions can be found here .   Atmosphere 5   The experience at Gillette is dominated by the new 22,000 square-foot scoreboard and lighthouse on the northern end of the stadium. The scoreboard contains 20 million pixels and measures over half an acre. Patriot Plaza features live music, games, and numerous photo ops before games. The new 12-foot-tall Tom Brady statue has become a focal point of this area.   Highlights of the Patriots game day experience include the End Zone Militia firing their muskets after every New England score. The elaborate pregame show has the team taking the field to Carmina Burana, Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train,” and AC-DC’s “For Those About to Rock.” Over the years, several social gathering areas have been built into Gillette Stadium, including the Optum Field Lounge, the Bud Light Party Deck, and Encore Boston Harbor Terrace, providing alternative viewpoints for fans to gather and watch the action.   The tailgating scene in Foxboro isn’t mentioned among the league’s elite, but Patriots fans can hang with any NFL fanbase when it comes to pregame parties. Gillette’s rural location means there’s lots of room around for, well, lots. While it’s much more family-friendly at Gillette than it ever used to be, remember, this is still an NFL venue. This may not be the best place for kids. If tailgating isn’t your thing, you can always check out Patriot Place before or after kickoff.   While Patriots fans are still supportive of the team and the rebuild, it will be interesting to see how long they will remain patient. While older fans can remember the days of the Sullivan family ownership and the “Patsies,” a significant portion of the fanbase has never experienced consistent losing before.   Neighborhood 4   Gillette Stadium sits on what was once a lonely stretch of Route One, which contained only a harness racing track and a trailer park. Today, the location is the home of Patriot Place, an open-air shopping center located on the site of the old Schaefer Stadium. Over the years, it has grown to include a four-star hotel, entertainment complex, and outpatient health center.   Fans visiting Foxboro can choose between numerous eateries ranging from casual dining to fine fare, from brew pubs to fancy steakhouses. Fans can bowl at Splitsville Alley, throw axes at Crazy Axes, or play pickleball at Eleveno Pickleball. Movies play at Cinema de Lux, and live music is played at Showcase Live! Fans looking to stay at Patriot Place will find a Hilton Garden Inn and Renaissance Hotel steps from the stadium. Visit the Patriot Place website  for more information.   Fans 5   Patriots fans have certainly become spoiled with the unprecedented success of the Brady/Belichick years As the team embarks on what will surely be a lengthy rebuild, fans have had to come to grips with win-loss records not seen around here in decades. Still, support has not fallen off a cliff. Yet.   The team still advertises a sellout streak that dates back to the opening of Gillette Stadium. However, prices are starting to fall on the resale market, and empty seats can sometimes be found around the facility. It will be interesting to see how long fans will remain patient with the rebuild. The hiring of Mike Vrabel has renewed optimism after the failed experiment that was the Jarrod Mayo hiring.   Access 2   Gillette Stadium is located in the small town of Foxborough, MA (alternatively spelled Foxboro), a town of almost 19,000 residents situated about halfway between Boston and Providence, RI. This location, picked for Schaefer Stadium due to its apparent convenience at the intersection of Interstates 95 and 495, has always had problems with accessibility.   Gillette Stadium is located on Route One, a busy four-lane road. It is the only way into and out of the stadium complex. As you might imagine, traffic backs up for miles in both directions on game days. The Patriots constantly tweak their systems to try to get visitors moving as quickly as possible, but no plan seems to consistently work.   The Foxboro MBTA station has a stop behind Gillette Stadium, providing service to Boston and Providence. There are numerous parking lots surrounding the stadium and all along Route One. Staggered pricing and exit times have been implemented to try to alleviate wait times in the area.   Fans will access Gillette Stadium via one of three entry gates. Renovations to the north end of the stadium have improved flow greatly and provided an entry plaza for fans to congregate pregame. Three sets of ramps lead to the upper levels of the stadium. Concourses, while busy, are large enough to move about without issue. There is ample standing room available on all levels of the facility. Handicapped seating is plentiful.   The concourse is filled with concession stands, both permanent and portable. Lines can be long, particularly at halftime. Restrooms are plentiful and clean considering their busy usage. Just time your visits wisely. Be aware that Gillette Stadium is a cashless facility with a fairly aggressive clear bag policy . What can and cannot be brought into the stadium is advertised in all parking lots. Pay attention and save yourself a long walk back to your car.   Any veteran Patriots fan will tell you that the key to avoiding the legendary Gillette traffic is to arrive early and stay a bit after the game. Luckily, with Patriot Place next to the stadium and the excellent tailgating scene, this is not the worst plan. The Patriots will even pay you to stick around and let the traffic ease. Read on…   Return on Investment 3   For the 2024 season, the Patriots ranked fifth in the NFL in terms of cost according to the Team Marketing Report Fan Cost Index. Driving the high prices are tickets and concessions, which rank near the top of the NFL. The average ticket cost of $142 ranks New England third in the NFL. While demand for tickets may have diminished a bit with the team’s recent struggles, it is still tough to find a ticket under $100 on the resale market.   Parking at Gillette Stadium has undergone some drastic changes in recent years. Now stay with me, this might get complicated. The lots on the stadium (east) side of Route One must be purchased in advance. Prepaid spots are guaranteed and cost $25. Parking on the west side of Route One is now free (unbelievable, right?). There are also “delayed release” lots, from which you cannot leave for 75 minutes after the game. If you choose to park here, the Patriots will reward you with a $50 Visa gift card. Privately owned lots along Route One charge anywhere from $30-$60 to park. Complete parking information can be found here .   Extras 5   The newest feature in Patriot Plaza, the giant statue of Tom Brady, has become a focal point for visiting fans. The 12-foot-tall bronze sculpture sits atop a hexagonal-shaped base, signifying the six championships Brady won while in New England.   Located at the north end of the stadium above the team store, the Patriots Hall of Fame houses team memorabilia from throughout their history. Among the notable pieces here are the team’s six Super Bowl trophies and the snowplow from the infamous “plow game” in 1982.   The End Zone Militia has a vantage point many Patriot fans dream of. From their post just beyond the north end zone, they fire off a 21-gun salute after every New England score.   The renovations to the north end of the stadium deserve an extra point. The new lighthouse (which now actually looks like a lighthouse) is the focal point of the stadium. The lighthouse is accessible to fans during off hours and features views of the Boston and Providence skylines. And let us not forget to mention the largest outdoor scoreboard in the country.   The display of the Patriots’ six Super Bowl banners in the south end zone complements the new north end zone renovations.   Final Thoughts   It may be difficult to believe, but this concrete stadium in the woods of suburban Massachusetts is actually a trendsetter in the world of stadium design. While the stadium itself doesn’t break any new ground, especially when compared to the new billion-dollar behemoths being built around the NFL today, the live/work/play community surrounding Gillette Stadium has become a must-have feature in many new facility designs. ----   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.