Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Value City Arena at Jerome Schottenstein Center 555 Borror Dr Columbus, OH 43210 Ohio State Buckeyes men’s hockey website Value City Arena at Jerome Schottenstein Center website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 17,500 Buckeyes on Ice Taking the ice for the first time in 1963, the Ohio State Buckeyes began a long, yet not illustrious tenure in College Hockey.  Not a part of the three M’s of College hockey (Michigan, Massachusetts and Minnesota), Ohio State has seen various degrees of success which have culminated in appearances in the Frozen Four in 1998 and 2018.  The Buckeyes have enjoyed conference championships in 1972 and 2019 and tournament championships in 1972 and 2004 while participating in the NCAA tournament ten times.  The Buckeyes were a charter member of the original CCHA conference in 1971 and the Big Ten hockey conference in 2013.  The most accomplished hockey alumnus of Ohio State is Ryan Kesler, who went on to play over 1,000 games in the NHL. The Ohio State hockey team shares its home, Value City Arena @ Jerome Schottenstein Center, with the school's basketball team.  Opened in 1998 and with a capacity of 17,500, Value City Arena is not the most ideal home for Buckeye hockey, but does give the team more of a major league feel playing in a large arena.  The Schott, as it is sometimes referred, is named after Columbus businessman and philanthropist, the late Jerome Schottenstein who helped make the arena possible with a $12.5 million gift.  Schottenstein is known for founding Schottenstein Stores Inc, which operated a number of Value City furniture and department stores.  Ohio State University was founded in 1870 and currently boasts over 60,000 students in Columbus, Ohio. Food & Beverage 4 The Schott does offer a good variety of concession options for fans.  All of the expected arena items can be found along with a number of more unique and upscale items.  Fowl At Play offers a variety of grilled and fried chicken options along with funnel cake fries; Sear and Stack offers gourmet burgers and texas tenderloin; Brutus’ Best offers chimichurri veggie subs, club sandwiches and jalapeno sausage; Ooey Gooey Grilled Cheese offers grilled cheese concoctions; Donato’s Pizza has pizza and sub offerings; and Scarlett Grill has fries and chicken tenders.  The soft drink of choice at Value City Arena is in the Coca-Cola family.  Many stands offer self-serve fountain drink stations, which is fairly unique.  Beer offerings are fairly limited with Coors Light, Michelob Ultra and Modelo being the brands available. Atmosphere 3 The Jerome Schottenstein Center has a large, hulking exterior that makes it look like a major league venue.  The exterior has a mix of brown brick and windows on the entry points with turret-like points on the corners, and a central structure that is covered in grey siding.  The exterior is well kept and attractive. After fans enter the building, they are brought into the main concourse.  The concourse gives fans a bit of a Joe Louis Arena feel.  The councourses are dominated by painted block walls and bright colours.  There is not much in the way of natural light that enters the councourses and unlike Joe Louis Arena, the concourses are neat and dominated by scarlett, grey and white colors, including on the floors.  Inside the seating bowl, the ice runs from west to east with the perfect spot for the picture of the center ice logo, from the north side.  The seating bowl is two-tiered with a separated lower bowl.  The upper deck is curtained off to give a bit more of an intimate feel to the venue.  The seats in the east end are also covered with a large “Buckeye Hockey”sign. The videoboard at centre ice is decent, but not overly huge and the upper deck fascia features LED ribbon boards and there are videoboards in the upper corners.  The east side of the arena also features the Ohio State hockey banners.  Grouped banners hang for the NCAA Tournament appearances, Frozen Four appearances, CCHA season and tournament championships, and Big Ten Championships.  Individual banners hang for the 2019 Big Ten season championship, 1998 and 2018 Frozen Four and the honoured number of Paul Pooley.  Pooley played 15 games in the NHL and is the Buckeyes leading scorer. The gameday atmosphere is what one would expect for a college hockey game.  The game that was reviewed was during the winter break and the campus was quiet.  Normally the student section would have a presence and the band would also be a part of the experience. Clearly the worst part of an Ohio State hockey game is the seating area.  The seats in Value City Arena are cushioned, but low to the ground and very narrow.  For fans who may be above average in height or stature, it is not a comfortable experience at all.  Finding seats that are in a less populated area may be the best idea to be able to spread out. Neighborhood 5 Jerome Schottenstein Center is located on the campus of Ohio State University, in the Olentangy West neighborhood of Columbus.  Columbus is an excellent city to spend some time in and taking in an Ohio State game should be part of it.  There are a number of spots that are not too far from the arena for pre or post game food and drink.  Some options include Brassica in Upper Arlington, The O on Lane, Varsity Club, Bravo, and Mirror Lake Eatery as well as a plethora of national chain restaurants. Columbus is a fantastic place for the sports fan.  Ohio State fields a full complement of college teams including basketball, baseball, and the pride of the state, football at Ohio Stadium.  Other sports options include the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL, Columbus Crew of MLS and Columbus Clippers of MiLB.  Other tourist options include the Jack Nicklaus Museum, Arnold Swartzenegger bronze statue, Franklin Park Conservatory, COSI, Ohio State Capital and the German Village.  For fans who wish to stay near The Schott, the SpringHill Suites and Blackwell Inn are close options. Fans 3 Support for Ohio State hockey is decent.  In the 2023 season, the Ohio State Buckeyes averaged 4,500 fans per game, which ranked them 6th in the Big Ten Conference and 16th in the NCAA.  As of this writing, in the 2024 season, the Buckeyes have averaged 5,000 fans per game, which ranks 5th in the Big Ten and 15th in the NCAA.  There is definitely room for improvement, especially since Ohio State boasts one of the largest buildings in the country.  The game that was reviewed was during the winter break and it is assumed that when the students are on campus, their presence is felt and provides for a better ambience. Access 4 Value City Arena is located on the campus of Ohio State University in the Olentangy West neighbourhood of Columbus.  It is just west of the Olentangy River, north of I-670 and west of I-71.  Highway 315 essentially bisects the campus, so getting to Ohio State is not that difficult.  There is plenty of space available for parking, at a cost, close to the arena.  For fans who desire to take public transit, there are bus stops that run along Olentangy River Road and Lane Ave.  Fans should consult the Central Ohio Transit Authority website for fares, maps and schedules.  Getting around Schottenstein Center is not too difficult based on the average attendance and the washroom facilities are adequate. Stadium Journey recognizes that security protocols for major sporting events are constantly changing.  Currently, Ohio State uses a “No Bag” Policy.  Stadium Journey encourages all fans to consult the Schottenstein Center website for the most up to date security procedures and protocols including bag policy and prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 College hockey offers great value for the sporting dollar and Ohio State is no different.  Non-conference game tickets for adults begin at $12 and go up to $20 for adults.  Discounts can be found for students, seniors and children.  Conference and premier games, including Michigan games, top out at $25 and $30 respectively.  Concession prices are about what one would expect.  Parking comes at a price, but it is not exorbitant.  The product on the ice is solid.  The biggest drawback comes down to the lack of comfort in the seats. Extras 3 An extra mark for the rivalry that Ohio State shares with that team up north, even in hockey. An extra mark for the helmets for the Buckeyes, which mimic the helmets of the football team, the same grey with scarlet stripe down the middle. An extra mark for the unique branding of the Buckeyes.  Many outside of Ohio are unaware that a buckeye is actually a chestnut. Final Thoughts Columbus, Ohio is a significantly underrated city to visit.  There is no doubt that one of the centerpieces of Columbus is Ohio State.  Fans should not sleep on Ohio State Buckeyes hockey at Value City Arena @ Schottenstein Center.  It’s a great experience and one that college hockey fans need to consider. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Kia Center 400 W Church St Orlando, FL 32801 Orlando Magic website Kia Center website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 18,500 Quietly Impressive in Orlando Take an NBA team, plant it in a beautiful vibrant growing city, and build them a beautiful facility with modern touches that never seem to go out of style, and you have yourself Kia Center, home of the Orlando Magic. Chock-full of quality concessions, comfortable seating, great restaurants and bars nearby, and friendly patrons, you would be hard-pressed to find a venue as enjoyable and inviting for a game of professional basketball. While many may think of Orlando as a city meant for tourists, it is quietly becoming a central hub for sports. Food & Beverage   5 The concessions at Kia Center are impressive. The home of the Magic combines standard stadium concessions and local favorites with known brands from around the country. Among the popular spots are PDQ Chicken ($15.99-$19.99 for chicken tenders, $15.99 for chicken sandwiches) and Pappa Johns ($10.99-$11.99 per personal pizza). Local favorites come in the form of 4 Rivers BBQ ($15.99 for BBQ Chicken Nachos, Pulled Pork Nachos, or Carved Turkey Sandwiches) and Gringos Locos Tacos ($12.99-$15.99 for nachos, $6.99 for tacos). Stadium favorites like popcorn ($6.99), jumbo pretzels ($4.99), hot dogs (9.99), and even Brazilian meat bowls and burritos ($14.99) are available. Drinks include soda ($6.49-$7.99) and beer ($11.99-$13.99). Smaller food vendor carts are also scattered around the arena, including coffee stands and Dippin’ Dots ice cream. Perhaps the coolest thing about the concessions at Kia Center, though, is the Ultra Club bar, an outdoor location which overlooks the downtown skyline, while also providing a beautiful gathering space for some fresh air, good drinks, and TVs that show the action inside. Another great spot is the Big Storm Brewing location on the event level near the main entrance – this bar and restaurant is open from 11am to 7pm on weekends as well as during Kia Center events, and features its own entrance to the arena for fans with tickets. Atmosphere   4 Kia Center is stunning; from the vibrant and colorful concourse lighting that extends to the main entrance lobby, to the unique arrangement of the court’s flooring – everything here is visually beautiful. The arena looks like it is a new facility, not one that has been open for over seven years. The acoustics are also great, making the crowd roars loud and noticeable. Orlando Magic’s seats are routinely full when it comes to ticket sales, meaning you always have the feel of a big game. But perhaps the best thing is that Magic games feel like they are a family affair; there are young fans at every game, and the team works to engage with younger fans like few others. The family-friendly atmosphere penetrates everything you see and do at Kia Center, making it a draw for anyone looking to take in a night of professional basketball that everyone can enjoy. Neighborhood   5 What can you say about downtown Orlando? Kia Center is steps away from Church Street, the hub of Orlando’s rebirth as a foodie and entertainment destination. The City of Orlando has become a sports-thirsty destination over the last few years; with the explosion in popularity of Orlando City SC and a renewed interest in the Orlando Magic, the City Beautiful loves sports. The immediate area around Kia Center includes suburbs to the west and the downtown city center to the east. There are tons of hotels nearby, and since the arena sits next to I-4, getting to other resorts and hotels in the greater Orlando area is not hard to do either. Fans can easily stay at the Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, or the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown, and still walk to the arena with ease. For local restaurants, AC Sky Bar is one of the most popular sports bars in the Church Street area. Fans also visit Aku Aku Tiki Bar, World of Beer, and Tin & Taco. And if you want to see the sights, Lake Eola Park is just a few blocks away; this park is an Orlando landmark that is also home to a weekly farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. Being in Orlando, you are also just a short drive from Walt Disney World, Sea World, and the Universal Studios theme parks. Fans   4 The fans at Kia Center are loyal and known to pack the house, regardless of the Magic’s record or opponent. From the first game of the year to the final game of the season, an admirably full house can be found for matchups against all teams in the standings. Another one of the positives is the friendliness of the fans at Orlando Magic games; everyone is there to have fun, and that is reflected in the attitude of the fans. The only downside may be Orlando’s hub as a tourist destination – while the team has marketed itself in some ways as a tourist attraction in and of itself, advertising with billboards that say “come see an NBA game in Orlando” make it seem more like a visiting show than a regular occurrence for loyal local fans. This approach, as well as Orlando’s natural tourist appeal, has made it a popular stop for visiting fans that can sometimes fill up a large part of the arena. Access   5 How much easier can an arena be to get to? Driving on I-4 you pass within a few yards of Kia Center itself, so not finding the venue is quite arguably an impossibility. But if you do somehow get lost, signs all around downtown point the way to the facility, and both the South Street exit and the South Street Express Lanes exit drop you off right next to the arena. Also, when leaving there is an I-4 express lanes entrance on South Street on well. Once you get to Kia Center the Geico Garage is your best option for parking, and the best part is that the garage connects to the arena through a sky bridge across the street. There are also numerous other parking options nearby in parking lots and garages in the area; the only downside of late is the continuing construction in and around the I-4 corridor throughout the greater Orlando area. Return on Investment   5 Taking in an Orlando Magic game can be a great event, and while some seats are pricier depending on the seating level, seats in the upper deck start at just $25. With what you get for the price you pay, Kia Center gives lots of entertainment value and a quality, comfortable experience – an Orlando Magic game is a definite option for someone looking to see professional sports in Central Florida. Extras   4 The Ozone bar located at the top of the upper level (behind one of the backboards) gives you a bird’s-eye view of the action, while also offering a great place to hang out and watch the action. Fans can also enjoy the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame and other team memorabilia on the main concourse – these displays pay tribute to some of Orlando’s sporting heritage, community connections, and their best players of years past. Finally, Kia Center has also partnered with Disney, meaning there are various displays and nods to the Orlando theme park throughout the facility, including large painted Mickey statues in the main lobby and an entire suite inside sponsored by the theme parks. Final Thoughts Kia Center remains one of the best basketball experiences around the league. The facility is stunning, clean, and always comfortable; the surrounding neighborhood means you have plenty to see and do before and after the game; and getting to the arena is a breeze. Kia Center should not be missed by any sports fan, be they casual visitors or hardcore sports enthusiasts.

Photos by Lance Sutehall and Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Pete Maravich Assembly Center N Stadium Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70893 LSU Tigers website Pete Maravich Assembly Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 13,215 Geaux Tigers The LSU Tigers basketball program has called the Pete Maravich Assembly Center (PMAC) home since 1972. In 1988 the then “LSU Assembly Center” was renamed in honor of LSU Tigers basketball legend Pete Maravich after Maravich passed away. The LSU Tigers men’s program is very competitive in the SEC having won a national championship in 1935, making four final fours, and having 24 NCAA tournament appearances. In addition to Pete Maravich, Shaquille O’Neal and Ben Simmons have played for the Tigers. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions are for the most part the standard stadium fare. This is a disappointment for Louisiana standards since the state is known for Cajun cuisine. The sausage po’boy sandwich ($8) is the only concession that stood out as being unique. The concession stands are cashless. The generic fare includes Papa John’s pizza ($9), nachos ($5), hot dogs ($4), popcorn ($5), candy ($5), pretzels ($5.50), and Coca-Cola brand 22oz. sodas ($4.75), 32 oz. souvenir cup ($7.25), and bottled water ($3.50). Alcohol is sold at the arena. Budweiser products are sold for $9 while craft beers are sold for $10. If you wanted to you could also buy a bottle of wine for $50. Atmosphere 5 The relative disappointment in the concessions is washed away when you take in the atmosphere of the arena. Before you walk in you see Mike the Tiger’s habitat and his statue. When you go sit down you will sit in one of the thousands of purple cushioned seats that surround the court. You won’t be able to miss one of the largest scoreboards in college basketball hanging over the basketball court. If you keep looking up you will see banners recognizing LSU’s final four runs, its men’s national championship in 1935, and several retired jerseys honoring LSU legends including Pete Maravich and Shaquille O’Neal. Shaq has a statue in front of the Tigers practice facility. Neighborhood 3 LSU’s campus is located just south of downtown Baton Rouge. The arena is located right next to Tiger Stadium and the Bernie Moore track stadium. The campus borders the North Gate community which makes LSU students and faculty within walking distance of several restaurants, a CVS pharmacy, and coffee shops. If you are interested in a pregame/postgame meal or drink the Chimes bar is located in the North Gate community and Our Mom’s Restaurant & Bar is just a few miles south. Lodging options include the Cook Hotel on campus or Hampton, Courtyard, Hilton, Hotel Indigo, and Watermark in nearby downtown Baton Rouge. Fans 4 The Maravich Assembly Center has a large capacity for SEC standards because LSU fans show up for Tiger basketball. The fans show up dressed up in purple and gold while showing support for their Tigers the whole game. The Bengal Brass Basketball Band keeps the atmosphere up by playing during every break in basketball action. The LSU Tigers dance team and cheerleaders do their part to keep the crowd engaged. Access 3 Assuming you have a car the Pete Maravich Assembly Center is fairly easy to get to no matter which direction you are coming from. From I110, take the Government Street exit to St. Philip Street. Turn left, and St. Philip Street becomes Nicholson Drive. Keep going down Nicholson Drive until you get to Stadium Drive. From I10 Eastbound, turn off at exit 155A to Nicholson Drive. Keep going down Nicholson Drive until you get to Stadium Drive. From I10 Westbound, turn off at 156B to Dalrymple Drive. Stay on Dalrymple until it turns to Field House Drive. Turn right onto Stadium Drive. If you want to park for free I recommend parking at the campus mounds lot by the Hill Memorial Library. It’s a 5-minute walk from the Library to the Maravich Center. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at $10 for upper bowl seats in non-conference games. The prices go up a few dollars for SEC or major non-conference opponents. If you buy a cheap ticket, pay for parking,  grab a sausage po’boy sandwich, and purchase a souvenir cup you will spend about $40 by yourself, $70 for a date or hangout, and $130 for a family of four. I think that seems like a great deal for SEC basketball action. Extras 5 The LSU Women’s basketball team won the 2023 National Championship. Their banner hangs in the rafters and part of the court used during that final four is on display in the concourse. After Hurricane Katrina hit the arena became the largest triage center in US history with over 800 beds. The Pelicans played a game at the arena due to being displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The arena is a popular concert stop given that it’s the largest arena in Louisiana outside New Orleans. Final Thoughts LSU is known in several sports to be an intimidating program to play. Basketball is no exception. The fans do an excellent job of showing pride in their school and their teams. Baton Rouge is a must-stop for any college town tour.

Photos by Paul Baker., Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 William H. Pitt Center 5151 Park Ave Fairfield, CT 06825 Sacred Heart Pioneers website William Pitt Center website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 2,062 Sacred Ground for the Pioneers The William H. Pitt Health and Recreation Center is named for the local real estate executive and philanthropist who donated three million dollars to Sacred Heart University in 1996, a portion of which was used to finance the building of the facility. Opened in 1997, the Pitt Center cost $13.8 million to build. It has three levels and contains four basketball courts, a fitness center, a fencing and aerobics room, and a sports medicine and rehabilitation center. In 2007 a wrestling room, a weight room, new floors, and locker rooms were added. The Pitt Center is home to Sacred Heart’s basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and fencing teams. The Pioneers joined Division One in 1999. While in Division Two, they qualified for 13 NCAA Tournaments and won a national championship in 1986. The team reached the Division Two Final Four in 1977, as well as the Elite Eight five additional times. Today the Pioneers compete in the Northeast Conference. The team has yet to qualify for the NCAA Tournament since moving up to Division One. Food & Beverage 1 Concessions at the Pitt Center are almost an afterthought. There is a pop-up tent next to the entrance to the lobby which houses the concession stand. A bare-bones menu is offered here, consisting of pizza slices, various snacks, and beverages. Pepsi products are featured here. Alcoholic beverages are not sold at this on-campus facility. There are also a couple of vending machines in the lobby that fans utilize for snacks. On the plus side, no item on the menu costs more than two dollars. In addition, many people were observed bringing in their hot beverages on a cold winter day. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere at a Pioneer basketball game is a reserved, laid-back one. With the smallish crowds present at most games, there just isn’t a whole lot of noise generated by the crowd. The fans that do show up at the Pitt Center are dedicated and into the action down on the court. There are a lot of positive features to be found here at the Pitt Center. There is a large video board at the far end of the gym that is put to good use throughout the game. A second scoreboard at the near end of the gym displays some basic game stats. The sound system is state-of-the-art, and the music played throughout the game does not overpower the senses. The cheerleading squad performs throughout the game and throws t-shirts into the crowd several times during play stoppages. As a multi-sport facility, the gym at the Pitt Center is set up to accommodate more than just basketball. Thus, there is a lot of extra space beyond the bleachers. The large size of Pitt Center tends to dampen any noise that is produced by the Sacred Heart crowd. Neighborhood 3 While Fairfield is a nice place to live, it’s not exactly what you would consider a destination city. Visiting fans coming to Sacred Heart will not find a whole lot of options directly around the campus. To the north of campus on Park Avenue is a residential area, and a few miles to the south is urban Bridgeport. Fans looking for places to eat may have to drive a bit. Luckily, this area of Connecticut has no shortage of dining or lodging options around Route One, which runs the length of the southern edge of the state along the coastline. Adjacent to the Sacred Heart campus is the Discovery Museum and Planetarium. This attraction features rotating exhibits and interactive educational displays. Right next door to the Pitt Center is JP’s Diner, a 50s-style full-service restaurant. Fans 2 Crowds at Sacred Heart basketball games are small but dedicated. The Pioneers average under 500 fans per game at the Pitt Center. With several of Sacred Heart’s conference rivals located close to Fairfield, it’s not unusual to find some visiting fans mixed in among the locals and alumni. Instead of sitting in the bleacher sections behind the hoops as do most student sections, Sacred Heart students congregate high on the bleachers at center court. While the students show up in decent numbers, they seem almost disinterested in the action going on down on the court. Most of the students spend the game talking amongst themselves or on their phones. They add little to the atmosphere at the Pitt Center. Access 4 Sacred Heart University is located in Fairfield, Connecticut, a town of just under 60,000 residents located in the southeastern corner of the state. Located adjacent to the city of Bridgeport, Fairfield is only 60 miles northeast of New York City. In 2009 Money Magazine named Fairfield as the ninth best place to live in the United States, and the best place in the northeast. Located just off the Merritt Parkway, Sacred Heart is easily accessed by car via either Route 15 (Merritt Parkway) or Interstate 95. Traffic is heavy in this part of Connecticut, so be ready for your drive to take a little longer than expected, whether traveling from New York or elsewhere in New England. Driving directions to the Fairfield campus can be found here. Visiting fans traveling to Sacred Heart will be pleased to know that the area is served by a local Amtrak/Metro North train station, the Long Island Ferry, and is close to several airports. More information can be found here. All seating at the Pitt Center consists of molded plastic bleachers. Seats in the first dozen rows on one side of the gym have seatbacks. Walkways in front of the bleachers on both sides of the gym serve to push all seating far from the court, and the constant flow of traffic in front of the bleachers can be distracting to fans sitting in the first few rows. It is recommended that you sit a few rows up when at the Pitt Center. Despite the building’s small capacity, there is a lot of extra space beyond the bleachers, negating any home-court advantage a cozy gym would provide. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Pioneer basketball games are reasonably priced, costing $10 for general admission seating, $12 for reserved seating, and $25 for premium courtside seats. Parking is free in the lots near the Pitt Center, and concession prices are very inexpensive. Overall, taking in a game at Sacred Heart is an affordable alternative for southwestern Connecticut sports fans. Extras 1 Even though Sacred Heart has only been competing at the Division One level since 1999, they have experienced a great deal of athletic success in that short time. Banners honoring the success of the school’s basketball, volleyball, and fencing teams hang from the rafters of the Pitt Center gymnasium, and there is a nice trophy case packed with mementos won by all the Pioneer teams located in the lobby. Final Thoughts The William H. Pitt Center is typical of the gymnasiums that are found in New England. With a few exceptions, college basketball just isn’t the huge deal at Sacred Heart that it is at other schools throughout the country. The Pitt Center is a solid, no-frills facility that fits the needs of the program at this small school perfectly. ---- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram

Photos by Lance Sutehall, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Devlin Fieldhouse 6811 Freret Street New Orleans, LA 70118 Tulane Green Wave website Devlin Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity: 4,100 Roll Wave The oldest active college basketball arena in the south is Tulane’s Devlin Fieldhouse. In use since the 1930s the Devlin Fieldhouse is the home of Green Wave basketball and volleyball. It was built with the proceeds from the football team’s appearance in the 1932 Rose Bowl and the nickname “Rose Bowl Gym” was given to the venue as a result. The Tulane Green Wave men’s basketball program was involved in a point-shaving scandal in the 1980s that led to the program being dissolved for four seasons. In 1989 the program was revived with the arena getting a renovation and was named for Tulane alum Avron Fogelman. The Green Wave made the NCAA Tournament in 1992, 1993, and 1995. The Green Wave has not made the big dance since the 1990s but with Ron Hunter at the helm of the program things are looking up. They compete in the D1 American Athletic Conference. Food & Beverage 3 There are two concession stands in the arena with one being in the lobby while the other is in the upper concourse. Standard stadium fare includes popcorn ($5), nachos ($5), hot dogs ($5), burgers ($7), peanuts ($4), and pretzels ($4). Coca-Cola is the soft drink provider with bottled drinks costing $4 and beer is also sold for $8. The concession stands are cashless. Atmosphere 4 Devlin Fieldhouse is a small arena and if not for the fact that a sign says “Devlin Fieldhouse” you would not know you are entering a Division One college basketball arena. The lobby inside is small with a bell and a Tulane logo before you walk through a glass door to the seating bowl. There is a lot of green in the arena including the out-of-bounds area on the court, the seats, the walls, and the banners. The seats are all close to the court with the furthest seat on the sideline only 14 rows away, thus creating an intimate atmosphere for Green Wave basketball games. The students are on one side of the court and they give opposing teams a lot of grief. The band and cheerleaders also definitely play their part in keeping the energy up during games. I will add an extra point for the LED light shows during breaks in game action. Neighborhood 5 Tulane University is located in one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. On the campus of Tulane is Yulman Stadium, the home of Green Wave football. Yulman Stadium was built on the site where Tulane Stadium used to be and where three Super Bowls, Saints games, and Sugar Bowls were played. Across the street from the campus of Tulane University is Audubon Park and the Audubon Zoo. This area is perfect for a family-friendly outing. Restaurants near the Tulane campus include Jamila’s Cafe for Tunisian food, Ted’s Frostop Diner for burgers, and Dat Dog for hot dogs. Bars to check out include The Boot, Phillip’s, and Bruno’s Tavern. Lodging options a couple of miles away include the Adler Hotel, Hampton Inn, and St. Charles Inn. If you are planning to stay in New Orleans for a few days you should consider heading towards downtown and the French Quarter for the full New Orleans experience. Fans 3 Tulane does not have the largest fanbase and the Devlin Fieldhouse is not always packed. The game I attended had a packed crowd but at least a third of the crowd was pulling for the visiting team. That being said the fans that do pull for the Green Wave get invested in the game and cheer and jeer when appropriate. I will give a point for some of the chants the students gave the refs. Access 3 To get to the campus of Tulane University from I-10 Westbound you turn off Exit 234C onto Highway 90. Turn left onto State Street before making another left on Freret Street. From I-10 Eastbound turn off on exit 232 onto Carrollton Street before turning left onto Nelson Street and an immediate right on Short Street. Turn left on Claiborne Avenue and make a right on Broadway before making a left on Freret. Free parking is at the Loyola RecPlex garage which is across the street from the Tulane campus. There are enough restrooms inside but the lobby can get cramped during a game with lots of spectators and there are only two concession stands. Return on Investment 5 Tickets go for $8 for bench seating on the baselines or $18.50 for chairback seating by the sideline. With free parking, reasonable concession prices, and a historic venue to check out this is a great deal! . Extras 4 In 1969 and 1970 the venue was home to the American Basketball Association’s New Orleans Buccaneers. President Gerald Ford announced the end of the Vietnam War in Devlin FIeldhouse in 1975. Ford would not be the only President to speak at Devlin as then Senator Barack Obama gave a speech in 2008 during his presidential campaign. During the 2021-2022 season, the arena was home to the NAIA’s Loyola Wolf Pack basketball teams. The Wolf Pack men’s team ended up winning the 2022 NAIA National Championship. Final Thoughts Catching a Tulane Green Wave game at Devlin Fieldhouse may not be the first thing on your list when visiting New Orleans. However, it is an underrated venue and experience given that you are attending the oldest active Division One men’s basketball arena in the South.

Photos by Marc Viquez Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Vandivier Gymnasium 625 Grizzly Cub Dr. Franklin, IN 46131 Franklin Community HS Grizzly Cubs Franklin Community Gym website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 4,112 The Vandy is Still Dandy in Franklin The Vandivier Gym opened with Franklin Community High School for the 1961-1962 academic year. The gym would host its first game on November 14 in front of a near-capacity crowd at the 4,112 building. The gym would be home to Franklin Grizzly Cubs basketball until the 2005-2006 school year when modern facilities were constructed less than 2.5 miles away. The Vandy Gym and campus is now the middle school, but at least one high school home game a season sometime in late January. The idea stems from the school’s AD, who was a 1990 graduate and wants the old gym to provide a few more memories to the town of Franklin. The night of our visit was to honor the 50th-anniversary state championship finalists of 1973-1974. The venue gets its name from Robert Polk “Fuzzy” Vandivier, a legendary player on the Franklin Wonder Five. They captured three state high school championships from 1920-1922 with a combined record of 89-9, and then all five men moved a few blocks away to Franklin College and won two more state college championships in 1923 and 1924. After college, Vandivier was the head coach of the Cubs and later the athletic director from 1923-1964. Food & Beverage 3 A small concession stand offers hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy, and soda. There is a limited menu selection due to it handling a middle school crowd regularly. There is also an upstairs concession window that might be used for the larger high school crowds. The school offers Pepsi products, good-sized hot dogs with a proper meat-to-bun ratio, and additional toppings of chili and cheese. The stand does not take credit cards but does accept Venmo through an app on the phone. The first of its kind was witnessed at an Indiana high school gym. Atmosphere 3 The Vandy Gym appears frozen in time since the Grizzly Cubs last played inside its walls. The old court still has the hand-painted school logo, the words Grizzly Cubs are arched over the 3-point line, and the school colors of light blue and white adorn the walls.  However, the main focal points are its walls and lighting. The walls hang low with a set of lights that reflect off the basketball court below. It is similar in design to the Glen Ray Gym  just up the road at Whiteland High School. The Vandy Gym also features an upper concourse that wraps around the seating bowl for easy access and a play area for younger students. There are two sets of stands, the upper permanent bleachers and the lower pull-out bleachers that are adorned in plastic. Fans are close to the action all around the lower seating, and metal fencing separates the upper rows of seats for safety and access. Neighborhood 4 Downtown Franklin is known for its quaint restaurants and locally-owned shops since featured in the December 2, 1940 edition of Life magazine. That spirit remains intact 80-plus years later, where visitors can find everything from bars, casual and chef-driven restaurants, shops, bakeries, cafes, and breweries. Downtown is less than 2 miles from the Vandy Gym. Many buildings were constructed in the 1800s and now feature local places for food and drink. Blue Cactus Tacos & Tequila Bar and Shale Creek Brewery are two such establishments that are ideal spots before or after the game. The Artcraft Theater was built in 1922 and has been restored to its original look, offering second-run movies. Next door is The Willard, built in 1860. Today, it is a bar and restaurant. There are more places to choose from from its official website. North of the gym on US-31 is an array of fast-food restaurants and regional chain eateries. There are also retail, supermarkets, and several other places of interest. It is ideal for a quick bite on the run or with the family. Fans 4 Franklin fans are a vocal bunch who make it well-known what they think of a call or play on the court. Many have been coming to games for decades and enjoy watching high school hoops in the old building. The student cheer block was present, and the small group did their best to help out their classmates on the floor. Access 4 The Vandivier Gym is located at the middle school and easily accessible off of US-31 on the northbound side of the highway. A large parking lot on the south side provides plenty of parking before the game. Once inside, a wraparound concourse above the upper seating bowl allows fans to enjoy the game from a different perspective, and external staircases provide easy exits after the game. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket to a game is $7, concession prices are $3 for a hot dog and nachos, and a table sells used basketball gear and older t-shirts for $1 or $3. Venmo is an acceptable form of payment without cash. Extra 2 The Vandy Gym earns a point for its wrap-around concourse, low ceiling and lighting, and its name for one of the best players who ever laced his sneakers up, Robert “Fuzzy” Vandivier. Final Thoughts A visit to the Vandivier Gym is a rare opportunity for fans of high school basketball. The gym only hosts one game a year in January, and plans are to make it more of an event to create a unique tradition in the state. The stands are filled with former players, alumni, and other fans who make a Grizzly Cub game at the venerable gym a rare treat. ------  Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter  and his   YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Colonial Life Arena 801 Lincoln St Columbia, SC 29208 South Carolina Gamecocks website Colonial Life Arena website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 18,000 Colonial Life Arena – South Carolina Gamecocks The Southeastern Conference has long been home to several of the most decorated college basketball programs – Florida and Kentucky have both won multiple national championships, and Arkansas has added a championship of their own. In all, the SEC has made a total of 44 Final Four appearances. While a national championship has been elusive, the Gamecocks have experienced their own postseason glory with consecutive NIT titles (2005-2006) and an unforgettable run to the 2019 Final Four, the first in program history. USC made a major investment in basketball in 2002, opening the doors to the 18,000-seat Colonial Life Arena, following 34 years at the Carolina Coliseum. This move signaled a commitment to competing at the highest level of not just the SEC, but nationally. Food & Beverage   5 The food options at Colonial Life Arena are as plentiful as a mall food court. Fans can choose everything ranging from stadium favorites such as hot dogs, burgers, nachos, and chicken tenders, to a wide selection of more regional offerings including Mexican at Salsarita’s, craft burgers at Burgerim, Thai Kingdom, and even a taste of the ocean from Mr. Seafood. Many carts are also situated around the concourse offering everything from ice cream to donuts and gourmet popcorn to smoothies. Colonia Life Arena sells both craft and domestic beer, wine, and seltzers. Craft beers include selections from Terrapin, Columbia Craft Brewing Company, Wild Leap, and Peak Drift Brewing Company, while soft drink choices include Coca-Cola products. Atmosphere   4 Fans fill the plaza at the entrance to Colonial Life Arena in anticipation of the doors opening. The plaza, at the corner of Lincoln and Greene Streets, is lined with South Carolina palmettos and is fronted with a circular fountain that beautifully frames the entryway. A 15-foot statue of Gamecock women’s basketball hero A’ja Wilson also welcomes fans upon their arrival. The entry point to Colonial Life Arena is framed by large support columns backed by a full bank of windows. As fans pass through the doors into the grand foyer, an intricate mosaic of the gamecock mascot is front and center on the floor of the entry. Fans ascend staircases on either side of the entrance, the actual center courts from both national championships won by the women’s program hang overhead. The staircases lead to the main concourse, as well as an area dedicated to the retired jerseys and championships won by the Gamecocks. The concourse that wraps completely around the arena is a virtual walking tribute to the icons of South Carolina Gamecock basketball. Pregame entertainment might be more accurately described as a pre-game extravaganza – as the house lights dim and cell phone flashlights illuminate, the energy in the air is palpable. The South Carolina cheer squad, alongside Cocky the mascot, leads the team onto the court, with flags spelling out C-A-R-O-L-I-N-A. As the festivities move to player introductions, flames and sparks shoot from boxes set up around the center circle as Cocky waves a Gamecock-logoed flag about. The highlight of pre-game, though, is in the moments leading up to tip off; in what has become one of the great traditions in all college athletics, the techno beats of Darude’s “Sandstorm”  get the arena rocking. The song also plays during a handful of late game situations to fire up the crowd coming out of a timeout. Carolina power companies might want to tap into Colonial Life Arena as a source of energy – from the pre-game "Sandstorm" to the final buzzer, excitement is woven into the Gamecock basketball experience. This electric atmosphere is undoubtedly a highlight of the overall game day experience. The biggest obstacle facing South Carolina basketball might simply be consistency. Despite flashes of brilliance, maintaining consistent success has been elusive. Over the past 40 seasons, the Gamecocks have only managed three consecutive winning seasons on four occasions, often stumbling just as they start building momentum. This lack of consistency can be frustrating for fans who want to go all in with their support of the program. Neighborhood   5 Sometimes for colleges and universities in downtown areas, it can be difficult to tell where the campus ends and the city begins. Owned and operated by the University of South Carolina, Colonial Life Arena is located about a block off the main section of USC’s campus. The surrounding neighborhood provides fans with several options in terms of eateries and points of interest to visit as part of their experience. The student housing building at 650 Lincoln has several choices for a quick bite, including Jersey Mike’s, Urban Wok, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe. Also, student housing at 750 Lincoln includes a more upscale taste with offerings from Angell Bros. 1801 Grille. However, one of the more popular pregame spots is Thirsty Fellow Pizzeria and Pub, where fans are lined up prior to opening at 11 am for a 1 pm tip off. If looking for more entertainment to fill a visit to the South Carolina campus, early season tilts might be paired with a late season SEC match up at William-Bryce Stadium, while mid-February will see the start of the college baseball season at Founders Park, and softball at the Carolina Softball Stadium. Or, those looking for a bit of history of the area have just a short walk to the South Carolina state capital. Fans   4 Gamecock fans are a passionate bunch who recognize good basketball as it is unfolding. Fans start clamoring merely at the sight of the ball moving toward an open shooter, or the ball being fed to the post against a mismatch. Carolina fans show up in force, averaging a respectable 10,000-12,000 per game. But the uneven distribution of supporters seems to leave some unrealized potential of what could be, in terms of a full house on a night-to-night basis. While the lower bowl and sidelines are relatively full of excited fans, the upper baseline sections can sometimes appear a bit empty. Enough cannot be said about the role the students play in the fan experience. Dubbed, “The Cockpit” the student section even has their own X account (@SC_COCKPIT), and has four rules: 1) On your feet, 2) Arrive Early, 3) Be Loud, and 4) Use Props. The Cockpit is a great student section that does not seem to get the credit they deserve when ranking the top student sections in the country. Access   3 The streets around Colonial Life Arena can seem like a bit of a maze trying to navigate. The intersections around the arena start to be blocked off about 2.5 hours before a game, creating what can be a two-block detour to get to a desired location. There are plenty of parking garages and lots that are just a short walk from the arena. The entrance at the corner of Greene and Lincoln Streets is the only one used to get fans into the arena – this does create some back-ups as fans pass through security checks before entering the foyer to have tickets scanned. Stairs leading up to the outer concourse gives fans plenty of space to navigate, with the exception of the far end of the arena where the Frank McGwire Club juts out, creating a bit of a bottleneck there. Within the seating area, a narrow walkway passes completely around the upper level of the seating bowl. With most parking concentrated on one side of the arena, it does create a great deal of congestion following the game on the secondary streets leading away from the arena, especially for those heading back toward the interstate. Return on Investment   4 Tickets for conference match ups start at $15, before Ticketmaster add-on fees; it would be difficult to find a ticket at any of the Power Five conference teams that beat this. Prices do substantially increase for premium games against the top teams in the conference, in-state rival Clemson, or a premier non-conference foe. Given Colonial Life Arena’s size, games typically do not sell out, so decent deals can be found on the secondary market. Of course, there will be fees added. Parking starts at $10 for lots and garages that are just a short walk to the arena, which seems to be in line with most other conferences like the SEC. Extras   5 Not enough can be said about the frenzied pregame atmosphere that is carried on throughout the game. The South Carolina mascot Cocky is an active participant in hyping up the crowd, especially the student section, who really get the rest of the arena going. The concourse area of Colonial Life Arena is a virtual museum of Gamecock basketball. More than the impressive displays of the center courts from the women’s national championships, there are also displays of retired jerseys, trophy cases, recognition of those enshrined in the USC Basketball Hall of Fame, and the Walk of Fame are all a fantastic look at the history of basketball at the University of South Carolina. In addition, an array of South Carolina’s basketball history is recognized above the center-hung scoreboard, where men's and women's championship banners mingle with retired jerseys honoring past Gamecock legends. Following the game, players, coaches, staff, and cheerleaders gather in front of the pep band, raising their cupped hands in a unified "C" as the school's alma mater is played. This simple gesture speaks volumes, solidifying the bond between the program and its fans, and the university they all represent. Final Thoughts South Carolina Gamecock basketball is an incredible college basketball experience, but one issue might be that, at a capacity of 18,000, Colonial Life Arena may be a touch too big. While the passion of the crowd does not waver, it does seem like a smaller arena might magnify that excitement even more. South Carolina basketball may be one of the best kept secrets when it comes to arena atmospheres in the country. It can be difficult for basketball programs to cut out their own niche in the football heavy SEC, but Gamecock basketball has done a wonderful job creating an electrifying college basketball atmosphere that many might simply not be aware of yet.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Fifth Third Arena 2700 O'Varsity Way Cincinnati, OH 45221 Cincinnati Bearcats website Fifth Third Arena website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 13,176 Everything but "The Shoe" Opened in 1989, the Fifth Third Arena is the home of the University of Cincinnati Bearcats men’s and women’s basketball and women’s volleyball teams. It is known as one of the most hostile places to play college basketball. As of this writing, the Cats have won close to 83 percent of its home games for an incredible 452-93 record. The place also went through an $87 million renovation during the 2017-2018 school year, which resulted in a state-of-the-art facility that seats 12,012 for basketball games. The arena features two 360-degree concourses, court-centric seating, new club seats, loge boxes, and premium seats. There are also video boards and ribbon boards, along with The Arena Club, Champions Club, and Mercedes-Benz Courtside Club. Basketball began on the campus of UC in 1901 and reached its zenith in 1959-1963 when the team made five Final Four Appearances, won two national championships and was runners-up. They were led the first two years by one of the game's greatest basketball players, Oscar Robertson, but did not win the NCAA championships until he turned pro in 1961 and 1962. The Cats would make one more Final Four appearance in 1992. Food & Beverage 4 There are well over increased points-of-sales since the building’s renovations in 2018, and fans can find the city’s most well-known food products and locally brewed beers that will satisfy fans in attendance. The Skyline Chili concession area (sections 123 and 214) offers cones that are beloved in the area. They are miniature hot dogs topped with mustard, onions, Cincinnati-style chili, and a heaping portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Many pick them up in two, along with a side of locally made Grippo’s BBQ chips, another cherished item from the city. Buffalo Wings & Rings (section 203) offers bone-in rings and fries with various sauces. Another popular item is Sweet Buckets popcorn. The variety includes regular, Buffalo, kettle, cheddar, and Oreo flavors. There is also a bucket stuffed with cotton candy. The other concession stands feature more traditional items: grilled chicken sandwiches, smashed burgers and hot dogs, chicken tenders baskets, pretzel bites with cheese, nachos, and a hummus plate with veggie sticks. You can wash this all down with various Pepsi products in either 24 and 32-ounce cups or a larger souvenir cup. The beer selection features traditional favorites, including Bud, Bud Light, Sam Adams, Miller Light, Michelob Ultra, and Yuengling, and local favorites from Mad Tree, Rhinegeist, Esoteric, and Great Lakes, out of Cleveland. There are two giant bars and social areas to enjoy these tasty drafts: The Armory, named after the Cats original basketball venue, and the Queen City Bar. Atmosphere 5 The decimal levels are known to be among the loudest in college basketball; from the student section, The RUCkus, to the rest of the fans in the building, the place gets extremely loud and provides a home-court advantage. The facility is a basketball fieldhouse, and its 12,000-plus seats make it an ideal place for basketball. The arena aesthetically includes an artistic gray and white design on the exterior of the building that includes statues of its most iconic basketball player Oscar Robertson and the school’s bearcat nicknames. Inside, there is a picture tutorial of how the team picked the name and its design evolution over the years. The Armory Bar is decorated with the arena's former basketball court in an artistic flare, The Queen City Bar features a map of the city, and The Overlook Bar offers fans a place to sit and watch a baseball game through the window. The cheer and dance team is energetic and provides a lot of on-court action in between games. They will toss t-shirts into the crowd, perform dance routines, pump up the crowd, and bring in the Bearcat mascot on a litter (a wooden platform) carried by members of the cheer team. Neighborhood 3 Fifth Third Arena is on campus in the Clifton section of town. The venue is behind the right-field scoreboard of the ballpark and near the football stadium Nippert Field. Streets twist and turn up and down the small hills as patrons park their cars in one of the series of lots or parking lots near the stadium. A few great places are within a few blocks or minutes of the stadium. Minutes away on foot is Vine Street, which has transformed into a happening spot for breakfast spots, ghost tours, and entertainment over the last decade. A few miles further is the Clifton Gaslight District, a residential area of post-Victorian homes and eclectic little shops, bars, and restaurants. Vine Street offers two great breakfast and brunch destinations; Hangover Easy and Ladder 19. Alabama Que has wonderful prices on pulled pork, rib tips, and turkey tips. Island Frydays has what many call the best Caribbean food in Cincinnati, and Taste of Belgium is an official sponsor of FCC, specializing in crepes, waffles, and frites. The Gaslight District is a neighborhood I used to call home, and worth a visit any time of the day. Habanero offers Mexican and American cuisine, Stillwell’s Coffee House is a funky little joint to enjoy a cup or pint of brew, and Proud Rooster is another fabulous place for breakfast or brunch. The city's two iconic institutions: Graeter’s Ice Cream and Skyline Chili, are on the block. Reingest Brewing is a mile from the stadium in the Over-the-Rein section of town. The area is up and coming; however, the old 1890 warehouse building is packed with customers and features a top floor with taps, cornhole games, tables, and happy customers. Fans 5 The Bearcats have an energetic supporting cast in the stands. The decibel levels are boisterous, and the student section is active throughout the game, holding up with the best of them around the nation. The fans contribute to the atmosphere of the arena. Access 3 Traffic moves briskly through the seating bowl and concourse levels, and with the majority of open sections, it is relatively easy to find seating, bathrooms, or concession stands. The handicapped seating is at the top of each aisle on the main concourse. There are three lots for cars: Campus Green Garage, Woodside Garage, and University Ave. Garage. The price per vehicle is $10. Ticket offices are located on the south side of the stadium. Return on Investment 4 The cost of a UC basketball ticket starts at $20 for seats in the 200-section. They top out at $50 for tickets closer to the action on the court. At the game, the price of concessions and merchandise are reasonable and on par with other major sporting events in the city. Extras 4 Fifth Third Arena earns a point for being a basketball fieldhouse and not a multi-purpose venue. It means that the view of the court is close, and the interior is decorated with UC basketball lore. A second point is for the impressive designs at The Armory and Queen City bars. They identify not only the university but the city as well. The Armory is decorated with pieces of the former court on the walls. A third point is to the student section dubbed The RUCkus. They are located on both sides of the court under the basket providing a home-court advantage to the Cats. A fourth point is awarded to multiple renovations from the gray and white swirls on the arena’s exterior, the curved ribbon boards on the corner, and the modern seating. Final Thoughts Overall, the atmosphere is top-notch and hangs its hat with some other local palaces for basketball at the University of Dayton, Indiana, Louisville, and Kentucky. Cincinnati is a college basketball town with all the pomp and circumstance one would expect at a college basketball venue. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Foster Pavilion 650 S University Parks Dr Baylor, TX 76701 Baylor Bears website Foster Pavilion website Year Opened: 2024 Capacity: 7,500 New Year brings New Venue for Baylor Basketball The 2023-24 basketball season for the Baylor University programs is historic, and a footprint to the future of Baylor basketball. The teams said good-bye to the Ferrell Center, the programs’ home for the last 35 years, on December 22, 2023. Two weeks later, on January 2, 2024, the program opened their new home, Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion, with a win versus Cornell. Foster Pavilion is a 223,547-square foot facility that has a seating of 7,000 with a standing room only area for another 500, bringing the venue’s capacity to 7,500. Foster Pavilion will be the first part of a multi-use development along the Brazos River in downtown Waco. The basketball arena cost $212.6 million and was designed by AECOM, and built by Austin Commercial, who also built Baylor’s McLane Stadium located across the interstate. Food & Beverage   3 Foster Pavilion has an impressive food selection for their premium seating, but for the rest of the fans the food and drinks options are basic. This isn’t a bad thing, as college basketball fans spend less time in the arena compared to other sports. The basic food menu is perfect for a basketball game timeframe, and can be found at the Bear Fuel concessions located in the middle of the concourse on both sides of the arena. The food items available are double and single cheeseburgers, chicken tenders with a combo of French fries, sausage wraps, and snacks like popcorn, pretzels, nachos, peanuts, chips, and candy. In addition, Foster Pavilion has stands from outside vendor Chick-fil-A, chicken sandwiches and their well-known waffle potato fries, while Pizza Hut covers the fans craving pizza at the Bear Bistro concession. In terms of drinks, Foster Pavilion offers fans a choice of Pepsi and of course Dr Pepper products, as Waco is the birthplace of Dr Pepper. Upgrading to the souvenir soda is the way to go if you plan to have more than one soda, as the few dollars more becomes unlimited refills. The other drink choices are Gatorade and water; I did not see any alcohol options for the general seating area. The concession stands are in perfect locations, cashless, and top-of-the-line with technology, keeping the time needed to get food and drinks down to a minimum, which helps fans spend more time watching the game. Atmosphere   5 Foster Pavilion was built on the concept of bringing fans closer to the court and giving Baylor a true-home court advantage – the first few games in the new building have done just that. The intimacy of Foster Pavilion has all the seats right on top of the court, providing a great view no matter where your seat is located. The 2 large videoboards above the upper baseline of the pavilion have advanced technology, as do the mid-level banner scoreboards, which offer everything a fan needs to assist in watching the game with the score, time, fouls, and video replays. The college basketball experience is largely relied on by the college students; Baylor has a great student section known as the Bear Den, located along the court behind the team benches and at the baseline end by the visiting team bench. This set up puts the Baylor students around the visiting team, with the Baylor band just on the far side – the band even keeps a tracker of how many foul shots the visiting team has missed since the pavilion opened. The Baylor spirit squad and the Bears mascots, Bruiser and Marigold, keep the crowd entertained during the game. The best way for me to describe the atmosphere in Foster Pavilion is a comment; an employee of the pavilion asked me when I arrived, “Do you have ear plugs?”. Neighborhood   4 Foster Pavilion is along the Brazos River on the west side of Interstate 35, across from Baylor University’s campus in Waco, Texas. The arena is nestled in the corner of I-35, off the frontage road and South University Parks Drive behind the Clifton Robinson Tower, with a future stop along the Waco Riverwalk that will offer walking access to the Baylor University campus and downtown Waco. There are plenty of fast-food places within walking distance of the Pavilion. However, if you want more of a gathering place, Buzzard Billy’s Restaurant along the Brazos River is the closest restaurant to Foster Pavilion. However, Waco has numerous other restaurants to enjoy while attending a Baylor sporting event – one of the more popular is Vitek’s BBQ, which is on the south side of Baylor’s campus. Vitek’s BBQ is home of the Gut Pack, which includes brisket, sausage, Fritos, and beans; if you decide on this dish you won’t need to eat for the rest of the day, as it is heavy and filling, but delicious. You should plan on arriving early, however – Vitek’s does serve outside as well as inside, but the wait can be long no matter which one you choose. George’s Restaurant is also a popular place to meet before, during, or after the game. This restaurant has been serving Waco since 1930 and the crowds here are large, so be prepared to get there early. Or if you are a person looking for Tex-Mex, then Trujillo’s Comedor Y Cantina is my suggestion – Trujillo’s is located a few miles down the interstate on S. Valley Drive, at the circle just past Magnolia Table. Waco has so many wonderful restaurants that you’ll easily be able to find something that suits you. But if you want to do something in the neighborhood besides restaurants there is the Dr Pepper Museum, which is open on Saturdays. You’ll get to see how the popular Texas soft drink is produced, walk through its history, and even get your own Dr Pepper drink. Waco has also been popularized by Chip and Joanna Gaines thru their TV show – you can visit their Magnolia Market or stop at their restaurant.  Or if you want to stay closer to the arena, on campus you can visit the Bill & Eva Williams Bear Habitat, a habitat that is dedicated to black bears. Fans   5 Baylor has a wonderful fan base, and Foster Pavilion will only enhance the fan support of Baylor basketball. The fans that attend games are energetic, fun, polite, respectful, and knowledgeable. Also, Baylor University being the centerpiece of Waco, the city is decked out in green and gold, with the local shops decorated to show support for the Bears. Foster Pavilion and the Baylor fans create a unique atmosphere and contribute to the pavilion being a tough place for any opponent visiting Waco. Access   4 Foster Pavilion is located in Waco, Texas – Waco is located between the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and the Texas state capital city of Austin. Waco does have a Regional Airport about 15-20 minutes away, but it will probably be cheaper and have more flight options if you fly into DFW or the Austin airport and drive the 90 miles. Once in Waco, Foster Pavilion is easy to locate as the pavilion is just off Interstate 35. There are about 1,600 public parking spaces within walking distance of Foster Pavilion; the private parking for Bears Foundation members is on site at Robinson Tower, and there are also shuttles from the McLane Stadium parking lots. In addition there is parking around the neighborhood, with the rate around $15. Basketball fans are encouraged to utilize the free parking in Waco’s downtown parking lots, while for ride-share services the designated drop-off location is on Second Street between Jackson and Clay Avenues. There are also ADA-accessible shuttles at Heritage Square, at the 300 block of Austin Ave. For a better understanding of the parking situation, please plan ahead using Baylor’s website. Foster Pavilion has 3 entrances, however, most people will use the main entrance, as the others are only for students and those with premium seating. Once inside the pavilion there is plenty of room throughout the main concourse to get to your seat; the only issue to be aware of is the baseline seating – due to its closeness and the way it was designed, the baselines seating has a steep angle, so it may be harder for people with seats in that area to access. Return on Investment   4 Foster Pavilion is one of the smallest basketball arenas in the Big 12; just a few hundred seats more than the Fertitta Center in Houston. The return-on-investment score is a little difficult for me at this point, due to Baylor basketball tickets only being available through the resale market, such as SeatGeek. Those prices are close to $100 plus fees per ticket – instead you can try buying one of the standing room only tickets (500 sold per game) through Baylor University itself at $40 each. I don’t suggest the SRO area unless you happen to live near Waco and just want to see a game; this area is great if you are the first on the baselines, but the sideline area for these tickets makes it hard to see the game. However, if the cost of tickets is in your budget, then the ROI is well-worth seeing a game in state-of-the-art Foster Pavilion. Extras   5 Foster Pavilion is a top-level basketball arena that can make any basketball fan want to return every game. The architecture allows outside light into the arena and brings back an old basketball feel, with the most updated technology available to date. Baylor connects its past history with murals around the concourse displaying Baylor success in both the men’s and women’s program, including their National Championship and Final Four banners in the rafters. The most important, however, is the continuing memory of Baylor’s Immortal 10 – the story, for those that are unfamiliar, is that in 1926 the Baylor basketball team was headed to Austin to play Texas. Heavy rain obscured the bus driver’s vision of an oncoming train, causing the bus and train to collide, killing 10 of the 21 student-athletes, coaches, and fans on the bus. For one game every year, the Baylor players wear these individuals’ names on the back of their jerseys, and the Baylor students wear t-shirts with the names as well. Final Thoughts The Baylor basketball program, fans, and the City of Waco have a gem in Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion. The pavilion will no doubt become a special basketball destination for fans, and in time it could be one of the top basketball arenas in the country. Although construction is still ongoing and the full vision has yet to be achieved, the details already inside (and the landscape outside) make Foster Pavilion already a venue that any basketball fan will truly enjoy.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Fant-Ewing Coliseum 4319 Northeast Dr Monroe, LA 71203 Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks website Fant-Ewing Coliseum website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 7,085 Warhawks Hoops In Northern Louisiana, east of Shreveport, is the small city of Monroe.  The centerpiece of higher education in Monroe is the University of Louisiana at Monroe.  Part of the University of Louisiana system, ULM was founded in 1931 as Ouachita Parish Junior College.  By 1969, the college had morphed into Northeast Louisiana University and was renamed the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 1999.  With a small school population of under 9,000 students in the small city of Monroe with a population of 47,000, ULM athletics has the opportunity to be the centerpiece of the city’s sporting scene.  Louisiana-Monroe participates in NCAA Division I basketball, as well as other sports, in the Sun Belt Conference.  ULM began fielding a basketball team in 1951.  Previously known as the Indians, ULM adopted the name Warhawks in 2006 as a response to the NCAA pushing the removal of Indigenous nicknames and mascots.  The name Warhawks was chosen as a nod to Major General Claire Lee Chennault, an alum of LSU, who flew Curtis P-40 Warhawks with his World War II Air Force unit. Home for the Warhawks is Fant-Ewing Coliseum.  Located on campus and owned and operated by ULM, Fant-Ewing Coliseum is named after newspaper publisher Wilson Ewing and basketball head coach from 1957 to 1978, Lenny Fant.  The Coliseum was built in 1971 and has a capacity of 7,085, nearly large enough to house the entirety of the university student population. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at Fant-Ewing Coliseum are fairly basic.  Hot dogs, burgers, nachos, sausage, candy, peanuts and popcorn constitute the majority of food options.  Coca-cola products represent the soft drink of choice at the Coliseum and bottled water is also available.  A limited selection of major beer brands are also available, mainly Coors Light and Miller Lite.   Concessions are provided by Aramark.  Fans will not go hungry at the Coliseum, but there are no original or must try items either. Atmosphere 3 Fant-Ewing Coliseum was built in 1971 and does not stray too far from the architectural designs of the time.  The Coliseum is circular and the exterior is a simple combination of red grey siding.  The main entrance is at the south side of the building, along Northeast Drive, although from the exterior, there is little to differentiate the main entrance from other entrances. Entering the south entrance fans are welcomed by the ticket office and the ULM Sports Hall of Fame plaques.  The placement of this is unfortunate as fans will be past the ticket takers and unable to have a good look at the entries.  It may be better placed inside the Coliseum concourse.  The concourse has light painted blocks and is circular but does not offer very wide spaces for traveling, however, this is probably not a big issue due to the attendance and presence of an interior walkway in the seating bowl.  There is not much in the concourse and any trophy cases present are empty.  Entry into the seating bowl does feature some murals and team markings to bring the spirit up a bit. Inside the seating area, the circular nature of the arena continues and is immediate.  The basketball court runs from west to east and the best spot for the center logo picture is from the south.  The seating bowl has red, orange and yellow seats that are split by a single walkway around the arena.  On the north and south sides of the court the seats do not conform to the court shape and are very far from the action.  ULM does place some courtside premium seats, high-top directors chairs, for those interested.  The Warhawks hang a number of banners honouring their basketball accomplishments. The men’s banners are yellow and include conference championships, conference tournament championships and post-season appearances.  The Warhawks have been to the NCAA tournament seven times.  There are also banners honouring former coach Mike Vining and his 402 wins from 1981 to 2005, and Glynn Saulters, who participated in the Olympics and played a season in the ABA.  In the centre of the domed roof hangs a simple basketball scoreclock, without any video capabilities. The gameday experience at ULM is similar to many college basketball experiences.  The game that was reviewed was during the winter break and there were not many students in attendance.  The ULM band plays from the west end and adds to the fun with their chants and antics. Ace the Warkhawk is the school mascot, however, was not in attendance during the game that was reviewed.  ULM also has a cheerleading team that performs at basketball games, but was not in attendance for the game reviewed. Neighborhood 3 The University of Louisiana at Monroe is located at the northeast inlet of the city of Monroe, immediately south of a huge greenspace and north of the Bayou DeSiard.  For pre and post game food and drink options, fans will be required to head across the bayou via Warhawk Way.  There are a number of chain options along Sterlington Road and Desiard Street.  Some unique options fans may want to consider include The Cookout, Waterfront Grill and Catahoula’s For other sports options in Monroe, they also focus on ULM.  The Warhawks play football and baseball mere steps from Fant-Ewing Coliseum.  Other colleges that are close by include Louisiana Tech and Grambling State.  As far as other tourist options, fans should consider the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Hampton Inn is not far. Fans 2 Louisiana-Monroe has not enjoyed the strongest support for basketball.  For the 2022-2023 season the Warhawks averaged 1,800 fans per game.  This ranks 10th in the Sun Belt Conference.  At the time of writing, the Warhawks have attracted an average of 800 fans per game for the 2023-2024 season, dropping them to 14th in the Sun Belt Conference.  The game that was reviewed was during the winter break and there were very few students in attendance.  Hopefully, the Warhawks can draw stronger crowds to improve the experience at ULM basketball. Access 4 Fant-Ewing Coliseum is located on the campus of ULM, just north of the Bayou DeSiard.  Getting to the arena is not difficult.  It is located north of highway 80 and east of highway 165.  Interstate 20 is a few kilometers south.  Once on campus, there is plenty of parking in the area for free.  For fans who wish to take public transit, there are Monroe Transit bus stops on the south side of the Bayou.  Fans should consult the Monroe Transit website for schedules, fares and maps.  Inside Fant-Ewing Coliseum, getting around is not difficult.  Although concourses are narrow, the low attendance won’t make that an issue.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the fans in attendance. Return on Investment 4 Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks basketball is very affordable.  Reserved tickets are available for $15 each and General Admission tickets are $12.  Parking is free and concession prices are about what one would expect.  The product on the court is Division I basketball and ULM does what it can to put together a good gameday experience.  A higher attendance would add greatly to the vibe and push the return on investment for the Warhawks even higher. Extras 2 An extra mark for the rivalry Louisiana-Monroe shares with nearby Louisiana Tech in Ruston. An extra mark for the historical significance of the Warhawk nickname, which was well thought out and fitting. Final Thoughts A trip to see the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks is definitely affordable and a good opportunity to take in some Division I college basketball.  Better attendance at Warhawk games would improve the experience for the fan and most likely make Warhawks tickets more highly sought after. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Burdick Pool 291 University Ave Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Burdick Pool website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 200 Tiger’s In The Pool 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. The Tigers swim and diving teams compete in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) as one of 6 men's teams and 9 women's teams. The pool is an eight-lane, 25-yard pool with depths ranging from four-and-half feet to 13 feet. There is one 3-meter diving stand as well as two one-meter stands. The venue did not yield a home loss from 2007-08 to 2010-11 for the five-time CAA champion Towson women's team. The Burdick Pool is located within Burdick Hall which opened on November 2, 1968, in honor of Dr. William H. Burdick. Originally designed as a Health and Physical Education building, it was also used as a gathering venue for campus events, including concerts and rallies before the Towson Center arena opened in 1976. Today Burdick hosts classrooms, labs, and offices for the Department of Kinesiology, as well as the University's Campus Recreation Services. The overall building feels like a new building, not one over 50 years old. Food & Beverage 1 There is no food for sale at Towson swim and diving meets. There is a decent selection of offerings at vending machines down the hall. Atmosphere 3 It is a fun time at a Tigers meet. The atmosphere is fun and vibrant. The sound system is not great as pools are just not the best at carrying sound. It is hard to keep up with the action as there is not great scoreboard usage for the fans, especially with the sound issues. This shouldn't dampen your enjoyment too much as the action is in the pool anyway. Neighborhood 3 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, Sushi Hana, and Underground Pizza. Baltimore is also a quick drive away and there are many options around that area. Fans 4 Most of the audience is family or friends of the competitors as well as other team members. The diving team watches the swimmers and vice versa, so they fill the stands part of the way just by themselves. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the campus. Parking is free and plentiful on the weekends, with weekday meets harder to attend. During most times, we recommend parking at the Union parking garage and walking the short walk to Burdick Hall. There should be paid visitor parking if coming on a weekday. Weeknights should also be free but could be limited if classes are in session. Once inside Burdick Hall ask the recreation staff how to get to the pool. The pool is in an area that is normally open only for students when the rec area is open, but they will show you how to access the pool seating area. Return on Investment 5 There is no cost to attend swim and diving meets. . Extras 3 Burdick Hall has an impressive rock climbing wall at the entrance so you should take a look to see if any students are attempting climbs. The nearby University Union has many cool places for both food and shopping and should be a stop on the way. Check out the various tiger statues around the campus. There is one right by the nearby University Union. Final Thoughts Burdick Pool may be a simple venue but it offers a great spot to watch a sporting event you may not have seen on the collegiate level.

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Mirmow Field in Orangeburg, South Carolina, will celebrate its 75th anniversary, including a list of events on Sunday for the double-header game against the Claflin University Panthers and the Morris College Hornets baseball teams. Events will include free admission, giveaways, local mascots between innings, and children can run the bases after the game. There will be a selection of food provided at the concession stand and an onsite food truck. Built-in 1948, the ballpark was named after Edward Mirmow, who had been responsible for establishing American Legion Post 4 baseball two years earlier. The city was caught in a post-war boom that saw many people returning to the ballparks across the country. Orangeburg was the same, and its brand-new ballpark would house plenty of baseball after World War II. The ballpark would be home to the semi-pro Orangeburg Braves of the Palmetto League from 1948-1950, become the spring training home of the Binghamton Triplets, house minor league baseball for a couple of years, house the all-African-American club Orangeburg Tigers, and be the set for the motion picture Major League: Back to the Minors in 1996. The stadium received renovations during the movie shoot almost 30 years ago. It also went through more renovations this past year that included a myriad of improvements to the structure.  The stadium cinder block walls have padding and a warning track for the first time in its history, much to the relief of Claflin’s outfielders chasing a fly ball. The press box is equipped with an HVAC system, electrical lighting has been added to the locker rooms, concession stands, and bathrooms, dugout fencing has been installed, and a new coat of fresh paint has been added to the exterior and interior of the stadium. However, what is in store for Mirmow Field for the next 75 years? The city is in a prime location for a summer collegiate team in the Coastal Plain League or perhaps in a smaller loop in Palmetto State. “We have talked internally about the collegiate summer league and would love to in the future talk with some organizations about bringing it to Orangeburg,” said Marty Kinard, Deputy Director of Orangeburg Parks and Recreation. Kinard added that the stadium will house the Garden City Diamond Classic, featuring 12 teams from area high schools competing on 6 different dates in March. He is also planning other events for the future, and the committee is constantly planning activities. Stadium Journey visited the stadium several years ago and found a simple but charming ballpark of the post-war era. In an area of rapid summer collegiate leagues popping up throughout the country, it seems as if Mirmow had been left behind.  At the time, the wood seats were warped, a strong smell of mold was prevalent underneath the grandstand, and peanut shells littered the grounds underneath the seating. Still, it had the potential to be another forgotten minor league ballpark to house summertime baseball. Perhaps that could be in the stadium’s future. It appears that changes have been made, and an effort is percolating to bring more baseball back to savvy stadium. Kinard added that many of the warped seating have been replaced. The city has added stadium seats to the center portion of the grandstand with the plan next year to add aluminum seats throughout the ballpark. “Mirmow Field is historic and gives you that past-time feel; it shows both young and old what baseball was like 75 years ago. Mirmow has a lot of great memories.” Perhaps there will be a few more years of great memories. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Baseball in Blue & Gray: The National Pastime During the Civil War is a great read for history buffs and sports fans alike. The author, George B. Kirsch, is a history professor whose area of interest is the impact of sports on life during historical times. This book addresses how the early days of baseball impacted life on both the battlefield and the home front. He also studies how baseball’s popularity had everything to do with surging American nationalism, resulting in making it America’s pastime. The earliest portion of the book addresses the origins of the sport in the US. The author rejects the theory of Abner Doubleday creating the game as strictly a legend. Instead, he theorizes that the sport’s origin was in several early games played that resembled some aspect of the game of baseball as we know it today. These games went by the names of rounders, the New York game, the Massachusetts game, cricket, townball and round ball, and base ball. Each of these games contains the elements of pitchers, catchers, bats, outs, and running the bases. As they became popular, the teams and players involved sought ways to improve the games by adapting rules to shorten the lengths of games, regulating the numbers of innings and players on each side, and adopting rules that would become standardized across the country. These rules eventually were adopted in 1857, shortly before the Civil War. In the beginning, the sport was most popular in the north, as it was seen more as a “city” game. This was due in part to the large cities of the north having more organized sports clubs than in the more rural areas of the south. However, as time went on the sport became more popular in the south as port cities on the coast and along rivers became involved due to their interaction with travelers and businesses from the north. The author also points out that in the early days of baseball, the clubs often featured patriotic names such as the Americans, the Eagles, and the Nationals. These clubs often had a club flag or pennant, and it was not unusual to also see the Stars and Stripes at the ballgames. Soon the drums of war began, and both sides began to organize armies and training camps, as the nation had not been at war since the War of 1812. These training camps involved a great deal of tedious tasks such as marching, learning different formations, etc. resulting in boredom among the troops. Another issue was creating a sense of teamwork amongst the troops, as many soldiers were thrown together with other troops of another social class or ethnic origin. During lull times in these training camps, many soldiers would play baseball as an escape from the dreariness of camp life. Soon the camp commanders saw the game as a way to build team spirit amongst the regiments and to get the soldiers in good physical condition. Soon active hostilities began, and baseball even traveled to the battlefield. Some of the early skirmishes resulted in soldiers fighting acquaintances who had chosen the other side due to their beliefs about slavery. The deep hatred that developed later in the war had not yet set in. The author relates a true story of northern and southern troops having encampments on opposite sides of a river. The southern troops were taking a break from the action and were playing baseball. The troops on the northern side applauded when a southern player made an excellent play on the field. As the war started, both sides took prisoners from the other side. Early in the war, these prison camps were well run, as they had a small number of prisoners, and they had good rations and decent housing. The prison commanders saw sports as a means of keeping the prisoners occupied and not looking for ways to escape. Each set of barracks would have a team to compete in a league or tournament. Unfortunately, the camps eventually swelled in size and could not keep up with the medical and nutritional needs of the prisoners, and as a result, became death camps for the incarcerated. Baseball also became popular on the home front, especially in the North. While the first years of the Civil War brought the battles close to home, they left the large cities such as Philadelphia, Boston, and New York untouched. Wartime spending brought affluence to these areas, as factories produced uniforms and armaments for the conflict. Workers at these plants would play ball during their free time. Often tournaments were scheduled, with proceeds going to the Sanitary Commission, an organization that dealt with sick and wounded soldiers. Baseball also enjoyed an enthusiastic response on the college campuses in the north. Colleges in New England and the northeast saw leagues develop, and competitive rivalries formed amongst the participating schools. This ensured that the younger generations were supporters of the game. Another aspect of wartime baseball was the development of sportswriters in area newspapers. These periodicals often sought ways to distract the populations from the carnage on the battlefields. Accounts of games and league standings were usually published in each edition. This also helped to broaden the knowledge of the game among the masses. As the war ended, baseball was truly America’s pastime, as the sport was popular at all levels of society. It also saw new growth for the sport in the Southern and Western states. African American teams were formed in cities such as Camden, NJ, Chicago, and New Orleans. Baseball was in its infancy when the Civil War began. It had been strictly a regional game played by elites. At the war’s conclusion, teams were playing at all social levels throughout the country. It brought sectional reconciliation between the North and South and was incorporated into Reconstruction efforts. Baseball also was a major influence on American nationalism. It was now a part of foreign policy, as baseball was introduced to the Far East and the Caribbean. The National Anthem was played before games throughout the world. Missionaries, diplomats, businessmen, soldiers, and sailors would teach foreigners the rules of the game. America’s greatest tragedy had only strengthened America’s pastime.

Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Paul Porter Arena 110 S Main St Boiling Springs, NC 28017 Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs website Paul Porter Arena website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 3,000 Paul Porter Arena - Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs Boiling Springs, North Carolina sits just across the North Carolina-South Carolina state line. The rural North Carolina town is a charming college community built mostly around Gardner-Webbs University and a handful of businesses on Main Street. After making the jump from the NCAA Division II level in 2001, the Runnin' Bulldogs would transition as an independent program before joining the Atlantic Sun Conference for the 2002-2003 season. Gardner-Webb would jump to Big South Conference in 2008, where they still play today. Food & Beverage   2 Two small concession stands can be found at the far end of the arena’s outer concourse. Selections are limited to hot dogs, nachos with cheese dipping sauce, pretzels, and candy. Beverage choices include Pepsi products, Gatorade, and bottled water. Beer and other alcohol options are not sold on campus. Atmosphere   3 Paul Porter Arena is part of the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center in Gardner-Webb’s athletics area of campus. It serves as the home of not just G-W basketball, but volleyball and wrestling as well. The brick and arched windows of the exterior of the facility nicely compliment the neighboring Tucker Student Center. On the inside, Paul Porter Arena has a throwback vibe of a pit gymnasium, where the concourse and seating run above the sunken court level.  There are bleachers that stretch to the floor opposite the benches, but the seating behind the benches only comes down a few rows, ending above the team benches and blocked by a curtain. The arena’s relatively low roofline creates a need for the scoreboards to be mounted courtside beneath the seating area. These scoreboards aren't just for displaying the current score; they provide fans with individual player stats like points, rebounds, and fouls, along with a live video feed of the game. During timeouts the boards dig deeper, showcasing detailed team statistics. Additionally, the scorer's table offers a more traditional display of the game time and score, for those who prefer a classic view. Unlike many college basketball games where current popular music plays from the arena speakers, Gardner-Webb University's pep band treats fans to live, in-game entertainment. The cheer squad and beloved mascot, Mac, compliment the pep band perfectly. A small, but vocal student section takes up residence in the courtside seating across from the visiting team’s bench and creates a fun, college basketball atmosphere. The student section blends well with the pep band to create a bit of a home court edge for the Runnin’ Bulldogs. Neighborhood   3 In the foothills of North Carolina's mountains is Boiling Springs, a small-town atmosphere in a rural setting. Boiling Springs' main thoroughfare runs through the heart of town, offering a diverse mix of dining options. While recognizable chain restaurants are always a safe fallback, a handful of locally owned establishments are also available – Campus Pizzeria, Snack Shop Family Restaurant, and Italian Garden are located close to the arena, just off the northeast corner of campus. During the winter months options for activities can be a bit limited in Boiling Springs, but on the occasional balmy winter days those who might enjoy getting out into nature might enjoy exploring the nearby Broad River Greenway. Fans looking for more options for restaurants, lodging, and entertainment might head to neighboring Shelby, which is less than 10 miles away. Fans   3 Gardner-Webb ranks in the bottom half of the Big South in attendance, typically drawing 500 to 600 fans per game. Runnin’ Bulldog supporters have shown they have a bit more in them, though, when it comes to attendance, which seems to depend on the success of the program in the win-loss column – in 2019, a year where Gardner-Webb put together a 20-win season and qualified for the NCAA tournament, attendance was closer to the 1,200 to 1,500 range. Regardless of the game-to-game attendances, the fans in the stands are a highly dedicated group. A small but vocal student section and the pep band do a good job creating a very supportive and passionate atmosphere throughout the arena. Their passion is also contagious, as it inspires many of the other fans in attendance to raise their game. While the fans can create a bit of a ruckus during stoppages in play, it is the time outs that really get fans going, especially in the student section. Access 3 Boiling Springs is in the rural foothills of the southwestern mountains of North Carolina, an hour west of Charlotte. Despite Boiling Springs being off the beaten path, it is only about 20 minutes off Interstate-85. To reach the arena, head to the university's athletics neighborhood via the Bridges Gate entrance on Stadium Drive; as you enter you'll pass by Bill Masters Field at Johnny Moss Stadium (home to baseball) and Spangler Stadium (used for football and women's lacrosse). Continuing along Stadium Drive will lead you to Paul Porter Arena, with a spacious parking lot offering free parking right in front. The entrance to the arena is toward the right side of the front of the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center, marked with a large bulldog statue. Most fans will ascend the stairs to the upper level to have their tickets scanned, before passing onto a narrow exterior concourse which leads into the playing area, or to a walkway that runs completely around the seating bowl. Some of the rows are awkwardly configured, which can make accessing court level seating a bit of a challenge. Return on Investment   4 Ticket prices start at $12 for general admission; reserved seats across from the team benches go for $16. For those looking to be right in the mix of the action on the court, a handful of court side seats run $40. Even though concessions are a bit limited, prices are affordable and will not put a large dent in the wallet. Extras   3 The walls of the main lobby of Paul Porter Arena are home to the Gardner-Webb Athletics Hall of Fame – the display pays tribute to both Hall of Fame athletes and All-American honorees. The rafters within the arena pay tribute to the accomplishments of the athletic programs throughout the lifespan of Gardner-Webb athletics, from a perennial NAIA tournament team to their transition into Division I athletics. Also enshrined are retired jerseys of the elites in Gardner-Webb basketball history, the most notable of which that of Naismith National Basketball Hall of Famer Artis Gilmore, who played at Gardner-Webb from 1967 to 1969. A small merchandise shop is built into one of the nooks of the exterior concourse, giving fans the opportunity to update their Gardner-Webb apparel, or simply grab a souvenir before heading home. Final Thoughts Basketball at Gardner-Webb seems to be a secret just waiting to be found. While the Carolinas boasts some of the biggest names in college basketball, the atmosphere at Paul Porter Arena gives fans the opportunity to take in a game just feet away from the action on the floor, and in a tight-knit community such as Boiling Springs that only adds to the passion of the experience.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Ferrell Center 1900 S University Parks Dr Baylor, TX 76706 Baylor Bears website Ferrell Center website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 10,284 Baylor Bears Basketball’s Ferrell Center Editors Note: Baylor Bears Basketball moved to Foster Pavilion in Jan, 2024. Located in Waco, Texas, Ferrell Center is home to the Baylor Bears basketball and volleyball teams. The first-ever event held in Ferrell Center was a political rally by former President Ronald Reagan on September 22, 1988. The first sporting event here (a Baylor Bears women’s basketball game) took place a couple of months after that, on November 25, followed a few days later by the men’s basketball team versus San Diego State. Ferrell Center, a building with a golden-domed roof, has a seating capacity of 10,284 for basketball and 6,000 for volleyball. The arena is named in memory of Charles Robert Ferrell, who died in 1967 during his sophomore year at Baylor. The actual basketball court is named after Paul J. Meyer Sr., in recognition of his contributions to Baylor University. The height of the facility is 111 feet, and the dome covers 3 acres. Ferrell Center continues to undergo improvements, keeping the arena updated while providing the best possible facility for students and fans. The university recently upgraded the floor and video boards, but the biggest improvement came in 2006 – the construction of the Lieutenant Jack Whetsel Jr. practice facility; this 42,990 square-foot facility includes practice courts, coaching staff offices, and a VIP receiving area. Some of the notable events that have taken place at Ferrell Center include NBA exhibition games and training camps, as well as women’s and men’s postseason NIT games. The highest attendance record in Ferrell Center history is currently at 10,627, with the most recent mark being set on January 7, 2017 versus Oklahoma State. Baylor University announced in May 2019 that a new Baylor Bears basketball pavilion will be built to replace the university’s oldest intercollegiate athletic facility on campus; while it will no longer host basketball, Ferrell Center will undergo a $30 million renovation and become the exclusive home of Baylor’s volleyball and national champion acrobatic and tumbling teams. Food & Beverage 3 Ferrell Center has plenty of concessions stands inside the arena, which means short food lines and little congestion inside the concourse. The food is comprised of basic sports stadium fare with prices typical of other venues. The smokehouse loaded nachos ($9) are at the top of the list as far as pricing, and give you beef fajita meat, shredded lettuce, sour cream, onions, and jalapenos on top of nacho chips. For basic stadium fare at a cost of $5, you can choose between the arena dog, garlic sausage dog, basic nachos, and cotton candy, while other typical selections such as peanuts, popcorn, pretzels, and assorted candy are sold for $4. There are a couple of money saving combos at the concession stands, for example the Bear Pack, which gives you a hot dog, kettle chips, and a small fountain drink for $10, or get two of each for $18, leading to a little more savings. Also, in addition to the basic fare there is Frito pie, which is a mixture of Fritos, chili, cheese, onions, and jalapenos. You can also find two types of chicken wraps, either chicken Caesar or blackened chicken; all three of the latter cost $7. Or, there is also a State Fair concessions stand selling foot-long corn dogs, funnel cakes, or sausage on a stick for $6. Besides the main stands, Ferrell Center also brings in outside vendors such as Pizza Hut and Chick-fil-A. Pizza Hut sells a 9” cheese or pepperoni pizza for $8 a slice, while Chick-fil-A’s prices are higher here than at their regular stores. However, they do offer a chicken basket for $9, which saves you a dollar compared to buying a chicken sandwich and waffle fries separately; you can also add a chocolate chunk cookie for $2. An interesting thing about the concessions here at Ferrell Center is that the calories of all items are shown on the menu boards. If you are looking for a beverage, the soda selection at Ferrell Center includes Dr Pepper, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mug Root Beer, and Mountain Dew; these options come in a small size for $3 or the souvenir 32oz size for $6. Besides soda, you can also find Gatorade, Aquafina bottled water, and coffee priced at $3 each, while fresh-squeezed lemonade and iced tea cost a dollar more. Note that Ferrell Center doesn’t offer any alcohol. Ferrell Center’s food and beverage options will satisfy any hunger during the event, however, Waco has enough to offer in terms of restaurants that eating before or after the game is more strongly recommended. Atmosphere 4 The success of Baylor’s basketball program, coupled with playing in a competitive Big 12 Conference, elevates the atmosphere inside Ferrell Center to a wonderful environment that anyone would enjoy. The atmosphere becomes even louder and more serious when nationally ranked opponents, such as Kansas or their hated Big 12 rivals, the TCU Horned Frogs or Texas Longhorns , invade Waco. The students sit along the baseline in an area nicknamed the “Bear Pit,” which continues all the way back to the upper level; this section is next to the Baylor band. The band, spirit squads, and mascot Bruiser keep the energetic crowd entertained throughout the game. In addition, during timeouts there are fan contests as well as the typical spirit squad entertainment. The video boards above the court and in the upper corners allow for replays to be shown, as well as other graphics that enhance the experience inside the arena. Overall, it is a wonderful college basketball atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 Ferrell Center is located on the Baylor University campus in Waco, Texas, at the corner of University Parks Drive and LaSalle Avenue, next to Baylor Ballpark and the softball facility, Getterman Stadium. Being on the northeast corner of campus, about 1 ½ miles from I-35 and the City of Waco, there isn’t much here but the sports facilities. However, Waco has numerous restaurants and lodging opportunities you can take advantage of while attending a Baylor event. There are several places in Waco that offer Texas BBQ; Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ is a chain throughout Texas and can be found just off I-35 at the Circle Road exit. Rudy’s serves brisket, ribs, and sides in a cafeteria-style setting with indoor picnic tables. Another good option is Coach’s Smoke, located just west of the Baylor campus, in downtown Waco on Austin Avenue. Coach’s Smoke serves excellent BBQ, burgers, and a good selection of draft beer. If you want the best, however, my suggestion is Vitek’s BBQ – this local landmark is on the south side of Baylor’s campus on Speight Avenue. Vitek’s is the home of the Gut Pack, which includes brisket, sausage, Frito chips, and beans. If you decide on this dish you won’t need to eat for the rest of the day, as it is heavy and filling, but delicious. You should plan on being there early, however; Vitek’s serves outside as well as inside, but the wait can be long no matter which one you choose. If you are looking for something besides BBQ, the Tex-Mex scene in Waco is just as popular. Trujillo’s is a great Tex-Mex option, located at the traffic circle on LaSalle Avenue. Trujillo’s is a family-owned restaurant that will surely give you the authentic taste of Mexico. However, if Trujillo’s is crowded, or the game is on a Sunday, then try Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant on South 3rd Street in downtown Waco. George’s Restaurant is also a popular place to meet before, during, or after the game. This restaurant has been serving Waco since 1930, and the crowds are large, so make sure you get there early. Another popular Waco landmark since 1948 is Health Camp on Circle Road; this restaurant is a classic roadside pit stop from the past, serving burgers, hot dogs, and a large selection of shakes, malts, and frozen custard. Although many of these restaurants aren’t exactly close to the arena, they are close enough to enjoy before or after the game. There are plenty of attractions and things to do while in Waco, such as visiting the Dr Pepper Museum. Waco is the home of this popular Texas soft drink, and inside the museum you can see how the soft drink is made, learn the history behind it, and get free Dr Pepper to drink. Or, the latest trending attraction in Waco is Baylor’s very own Chip and Joanna Gaines Magnolia sites, from their Silos Baking Company to their Magnolia Café. Waco’s other attractions include Cameron Park Zoo, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, all of which are worth a visit. If none of these seem interesting, however, then take a stroll through the beautiful Baylor campus, where you can visit the Bear Habitat, home to Joy and Lady, Baylor’s two live black bear mascots, and learn more about these creatures. Along with numerous choices of restaurants and attractions, lodging in Waco is plentiful. Most of the hotels are located along I-35, where you’ll have choices such as Courtyard by Marriott, Comfort Suites, La Quinta, Holiday Inn, Homewood Suites, Hilton, and Hotel Indigo. Fans 3 No matter the sport, Baylor Nation has a great following across the board. They are energetic, fun, polite, respectful, knowledgeable, and supportive of all Baylor athletics. While attending a basketball game at Ferrell Center, you’ll see lots of Baylor green and gold being worn, hear loud cheers for anything the Baylor team does, and of course, hear jeering at the referees when calls are incorrectly officiated. Access 4 Ferrell Center is located on the far northeastern corner of campus, away from I-35 and the normal Waco traffic. There is free parking for Ferrell Center events near the arena, and the flow of traffic seems to move well before as well as after the event. There are two main entrances into Ferrell Center on the parking lot side, and getting into the arena is easy and fast. Baylor University enforces a clear bag policy at all sport venues including Ferrell Center. As you enter through the main doors, you’ll walk into a spacious circular concourse. The seating areas, restrooms, and concessions are well marked throughout the concourse, and you’ll also see banners supporting both the men’s and women’s basketball teams. As you walk around the venue, Ferrell Center’s unique domed roof and banners hanging from the rafters will grab your attention. The seating consists of green plastic chair backs, but there is plenty of room, and there isn’t a bad view of the court anywhere in the arena. Return on Investment 4 Ferrell Center has free parking, terrific seating, and a wonderful atmosphere to watch a high level of college basketball. There are two levels of seating prices; reserved and general admission. Baylor’s reserved ticket have been sold out for the season thru the Baylor Ticket Office. However, there are plenty of general admission tickets available ranging from $15 (non-conference games) and $20 (Big 12 games) to $45. The Kansas tickets lead to the highest price for a single game ticket, but the third-party market is a good place to check even you want a cheaper GA or reserved seat at Baylor basketball games. The Baylor Bears men’s basketball program continues to be one of the tops in the country. The reasonable price to watch top caliber college basketball, to have an entertaining and fun filled evening, along with free parking, makes it well worth the investment to visit Ferrell Center. Extras 3 Ferrell Center is a well-maintained venue that is over a quarter of a century old, yet continues to provide a friendly environment during Baylor Bears athletic events. The Bear Pit student section and Baylor band bring excitement on the baselines, which provides a homecourt advantage that contributes to Baylor’s recent success. When thinking about Ferrell Center, it is easy to think of the men’s basketball team, however, the women’s program has also been dominant over the last decade. The Lady Bears Final Four appearances, conference championships, and three national championships are celebrated throughout Ferrell Center. Final Thoughts The basketball program under Coach Scott Drew has found success in the last decade. The Baylor Bears men’s team has made the NCAA tournament in seven of the last nine years. Also, in 2013 when the Bears didn’t make the tournament, the team won the NIT, and on January 20, 2020, the Baylor Bears earned their second-ever number one ranking in the AP poll, putting the program in position, not only to return to the NCAA tournament, but possibly to earn a spot in the Final Four. Baylor basketball will be getting a new arena soon, however, until then the program continues to develop future NBA players, which makes Ferrell Center a great place to visit for any sports fan.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Xfinity Center 2001 Paint Branch Dr College Park, MD 20740 Maryland Terrapins website Xfinity Center website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 17,950 Fear The Turtle Xfinity Center is the home arena to the Maryland Terrapins men’s and women’s basketball teams. The 17,950-seat arena opened in fall of 2002, replacing the much smaller and outdated Cole Field House. It is located on UMD’s campus in College Park, just outside Washington, D.C. on a campus home to over 37,000 students. The Terps’ motto is “Fear the Turtle”, reflecting both the fear the team instills in opponents and the Terrapin mascot. However, this slogan is not as prominent as it has been in years past. Maryland was the defending national champion when their shining new arena opened, and for the first few seasons, almost every home game was a sellout or nearly so. Although the Terrapins are no longer the national powerhouse they were at the turn of the century, the Xfinity Center is still one of the top basketball venues in the country in terms of energy level, atmosphere, and quality. Food & Beverage 4 The Xfinity Center has pretty much the same classic offerings you’d find anywhere, with main courses including hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, boneless wings, hot dogs, and pizza, as well as side dishes such as fries. Local chain The Greene Turtle has a stand which sells boneless wings and crab cake sandwiches. Fans with a sweet tooth can buy boozy ice cream as well as regular ice cream (by which we mean non-alcoholic, not boring) from the UMD Creamery right on campus. For those who require kosher meals, there is a certified kosher stand available outside section 121 selling items such as deli sandwiches and falafel in addition to stadium classics such as hot dogs and popcorn. Note that due to Jewish religious laws, the stand is not open for Friday and Saturday home games, nor on certain Jewish holidays where food cannot be prepared and/or served. Atmosphere 5 The Xfinity Center is a large arena with two levels, plus some courtside seats for top donors. The student section occupies the lower rows on one sideline, plus a towering wall behind one basket that extends from floor to ceiling. All seats have a decent view of the action, even the ones far away. Before each game is a lengthy pregame program, featuring multiple hype videos to get the crowd hyped. When they introduce the Terrapins lineup, the lights go out and fans are encouraged to turn on the flashlights on their phones, creating an impressive display. During one media timeout in the second half, a giant Maryland flag is unfurled in the student wall, as the theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey plays in the arena. Marylanders love their flag, and this is a unique tradition you will find nowhere else. The Terps have a mascot named Testudo, who unsurprisingly is a terrapin turtle. He tends to stay near the court during games rather than roaming the stands. Unless you are sitting close to the floor, you will likely not get to interact with him. Neighborhood 3 College Park is a small college town with enough in the immediate area to get by but is nothing special. There is a bowling alley a couple of miles away, and a bunch of chain restaurants within walking distance. If you’re looking for some local color, College Park Diner is a favorite with residents and students alike and serves up comfort food 24 hours a day. Looney’s Pub on Route 1 is a sports bar with dozens of big-screen TVs for your viewing pleasure. A couple of hotels are located nearby, including a Marriott just off campus, and The Hotel on campus. (Yes, the on-campus hotel is called The Hotel. Not a very creative name). That being said, if you’re looking to do more than eat and sleep, your best bet is to head down to the Metro station and take the Green Line into D.C. It’s about a 30-minute ride to downtown. Once you’re there, there’s so much to do and most of it is free. Whether it’s visiting one of the historic monuments and memorials, visiting one of the numerous museums, or simply walking outside on the National Mall, there’s something for everyone. All government-run attractions are free to the public, though some privately-run ones are not. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the Capitol or White House, you will need to reserve that ahead of time. Fans 5 Although Maryland no longer sells out every home game, the fans still show up in large numbers and are loud and raucous. The floor-to-ceiling wall of students is imposing and brings the energy throughout the game. The other fans will get involved as well, making the Xfinity Center extremely loud at times. One student tradition of note takes place when the visiting team is being introduced before the game. The student will read newspapers which have been provided for them, shunning the visiting team. Once the Terrapins are introduced, they tear up the papers and get loud until the game is over. Access 3 Unless you are a season ticket holder or donor, any official option option for parking at the Xfinity Center is going to involve walking quite a ways. the Regents Drive Garage costs $20 for non-conference games or $23 for conference games and is about a ten minute walk away. The Stadium Drive Garage is free to park in but is a 15-20 minute walk. Parking passes closer to the arena are available on the secondary market but will likely cost much more than buying through the school. The concourses at the Xfinity Center are more than wide enough to accommodate the crowds, with lots of open space and plenty of signs directing you where to go. Restrooms are located throughout the concourse and the lines are not an issue. Unfortunately, getting out of the garages after the game can be quite a problem. There is little traffic control and cars can get extremely backed up. Getting out of surface lots is easier, but unless you're a season ticket holder or donor, you will need to turn to the secondary market to park there. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a Terps game will vary widely depending on the opponent. For a non-conference opponent from a low-major conference, tickets will be reasonably affordable through the team and you can probably get them for below face value on the secondary market. Tickets against fellow Big 10 schools will start at between $35 and $50 for upper level tickets. Of course, that is not the only cost of attending a game. Parking will cost at least $20 unless you are willing to walk a long distance, and concessions can get expensive as well. While a Terps basketball game is a great experience, it has a high price commensurate with that. Extras 5 Look for the trophy case in the lobby with trophies from the Terrapins' men's and women's national basketball championships. A second star for the banners in the rafters honoring Terrapins greats. The traditions with the unfurling of the giant Maryland flag and the pregame reading of the newspapers by the student section are each worthy of an extra star here. Look for the Terrapins Hall of Fame along the walls honoring Maryland greats of all sports. Final Thoughts Maryland basketball at the Xfinity Center is a great fan experience. From unique student traditions to raucous energy in a packed house, to chowing down on a crab cake from the Greene Turtle, fans will certainly have a good time taking in a Terps game here.

The Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul) have a rich history with baseball dating back to 1859. A new book, Historic Ballparks of the Twin Cities by Stew Thornley, provides a fascinating look at the various stadiums in the Twin Cities that housed the minor league, major league, and university-level baseball teams over the last 160-plus years. The first recorded baseball game in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area was in1859. In these early years, these games took place in open fields with no fencing to regulate the attendance of fans. The first stadium to enclose the playing fields was Red Cap Park in 1876. It served as the home for several teams, as the sport was made up of neighborhood or company teams. It would be 1884 before the first organized teams competed in a regulated league. At first, the two Twin Cities were in a very competitive battle to recruit a major league team to their area as it would be a major feather in their (baseball) cap in promoting the city. St. Paul’s first ballpark was known as the West Seventh Street Grounds. It had a capacity of 2,400 and featured hitching posts for the fan’s horses. Minneapolis answered by building the Portland Park Grounds, with a capacity of 3,300 and hitching posts for 100 horses. It was also located near the trolley line that served the city. In 1889 Minneapolis opened Athletic Park with space for 3,000 fans. Unfortunately, the wooden venue was destroyed by fire shortly after it opened. It reopened in 1894 and served the city for more than 15 years. A group led by Charles Comisky, who later owned the Chicago White Sox, then built the Dale and Aurora Grounds, also known as Comisky Park, in St. Paul. A replacement was built in 1903 and was nicknamed the “Pillbox” due to its small size. Eventually, St. Paul and Minneapolis were in the same league and were competing on the field as well as off the field. The Minneapolis team played their home games at Nicolett Park, while the St. Paul squad called Lexington Park home. Lexington Park was a keeper, as the St. Paul Saints would call it home from 1897 to 1956. It was eventually torn down in 1958. Minneapolis also built a long-term ballpark at Nicollett Park. It would play there from 1896- 1955. Eventually, the Minneapolis side of the ballpark war won out, as the Minneapolis suburb of Bloomington was chosen to host the former Washington Senators in a new ballpark named Metropolitan Stadium. It opened in 1957 as the home of the Minnesota Twins. In a way, Minneapolis delivered an olive branch to St. Paul, as the team nickname and logo referred to the area as the Twin Cities. In 1961, the Minnesota Vikings expansion franchise was added as a stadium tenant, making Metropolitan Stadium one of the first stadiums to host both an MLB and an NFL franchise. Both teams would play at Metropolitan Stadium through 1981 when they both moved to the indoor Hubert H Humphrey Metrodome. Metropolitan Stadium was torn down and the Mall of America now occupies its footprint. The Metrodome allowed both the Vikings and the Twins to play indoors, as it increased the fans’ comfort in a temperature-controlled environment. It also eliminated any games lost to bad weather. They would be joined by the University of Minnesota football team and the Minnesota Timberwolves as tenants at the facility. The Timberwolves were a short-term rental, as they were just waiting for the Target Center to be built. The Metrodome became famous for the noise level generated by fans in one of the first indoor football facilities. The Metrodome did have some drawbacks, as its air-supported roof collapsed twice under the weight of the snowpack that had formed on top of the roof. The baseball field also had issues, as the turf caused unpredictable bounces that led to many errors. The Metrodome would serve these teams from 1982- 2009, with the Twins moving to Target Field and the Vikings eventually returning to the site when the new Vikings stadium was built on the footprint of the Metrodome. Target Field has been a huge success, as it has reenergized development in the downtown Minneapolis area. Its innovative design has been recognized, and it has also achieved LEED Gold status for its “green” design. St. Paul has not stood still in ballpark development. The St Paul Saints moved from their longtime home at Midway Ballpark to CHS Field in downtown St. Paul. It offers an increased amount of seating, wider concourses, and more shade from the sun than its predecessor. The stadium also includes the City of Baseball Museum, which does a fantastic job of educating fans about baseball in the Twin Cities. Historic Ballpark of the Twin Cities is a must-read for any ballpark chaser or baseball fan. It offers a timeline/roadmap for historians and sports fans alike. Fortunately, the modern-day ballparks are all located along the light rail system in the Twin Cities, making it easily accessible for sports travelers.

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

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Time has run out on the Lexington Counter Clocks. Temerity Baseball and a group of local investors have purchased the baseball club. One of those investors is Alan Stein, who helped bring minor league baseball back to Lexington after a 47-year absence. “You haven’t heard me say the word Counter Clocks,” Temerity founder and chairman Andy Sandler said in a Lexington Herald-Leader story this week. “While I’m not going to spill the beans, you may start seeing billboards around town that say something along the lines of, ‘It will be legendary.’ Stein is referring to the Legends name, used from 2001-2022 before being replaced almost a year ago by previous owners Nathan and Keri Lyons. The Counter Clocks name was never fully embraced by the public, which was already reeling from being dropped by Major League Baseball as an affiliate in December 2020. The Clocks name was about the horse racing industry, as explained in a statement released by the team last March. "Kentucky has an edge. A spirit. Once, it was tradition to race horses on the grass, running clockwise. This came from the British. But we raised and raced the finest horses, so we declared our independence. Our horses would race counterclockwise on dirt." Sandler pointed out that without the Lyons purchase of the team, professional baseball might not have been played last season in Lexington. The couple made much-needed renovations to the ballpark. Stadium Journey saw a new coat of paint on the exterior, new field seats, renovated bathrooms, improvements to concourse lighting and flooring, and remodeling of the taproom and suites during our visit last year. The Clocks name never ticked with the public and was universally panned by many others. The three sets of logos, although I enjoyed the swinging clock, were also shunned by many who yearned for the Legends name to be reinstated. It has not been made official, but all signs appear to be pointing to the former name being reintroduced. Sandler did have this to say about the speculation of the ball club’s new name. “Draw your own conclusions, but don’t make assumptions because that could be many, many things.” Will Lexington return to its legendary roots when the ball club officially announces its new name soon? All that is known is that professional baseball will continue to be played in town and that the clock has struck midnight for the old Counter Clocks name.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 George W. Woodruff Physical Education Center 26 Eagle Row Atlanta, GA 30322 Emory Eagles website George W. Woodruff Physical Education Center website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 1,000 Welcome to the WoodPEC Tucked away in Atlanta’s Druid Hills neighborhood sits the campus of Emory University. Even with Emory’s high academic standards, athletics play a key role in the overall culture of the university. Originally founded in 1836, Emory would move from their original east Georgia home in Oxford, Georgia, to Atlanta in 1915 on land donated by the founder of the Coca-Cola Company, Asa Griggs Chandler. Emory University has played in the University Athletic Association in the NCAA’s Division III since the conference’s inception in 1986. The UAA is comprised of colleges and universities throughout Georgia, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois, which are all also highly regarded institutions of higher learning. Food & Beverage   2 When it comes to food and beverages, options are as basic here as you are going to find. A small table is set up along the entryway and sells candy, chips, and other snacks, along with Minute Maid Agua Fresca, Dunkin’ Iced Coffee, Powerade, and Coca-Cola products. A saving grace for concessions is that outside food does not seem to be frowned upon – with the Cox Hall food court just steps from Woodruff P.E. Center, there are several options for fans to grab and bring to the game. Atmosphere   4 The George W. Woodruff Physical Education Center, affectionately called the “WoodPEC”, is a multi-use student recreation complex that houses campus health and wellness facilities and an Olympic-sized swimming pool, along with the gymnasium. The facility uses two very different styles at each of its entrances. In what might be considered the backdoor there is a very ‘80s minimalist feel to it, with very straight angles and little use of glass and windows. In contrast, the campus side of the facility has a much different feel, featuring a high arching entryway, large columns, and a great deal of stonework on the lower portion of the building. Since Woodruff Physical Education Center doubles as the student recreation center, there is an interesting mix of those there for the basketball game and those there to get a workout in. The playing area is part of a much larger gymnasium that is divided into a pair of side courts alongside the main game court. Traditional wooden bleachers pull out from the wall across from team benches, while temporary bleachers run the length of the sidelines behind the team benches. Basic scoreboards are affixed to the facade of the overhead track that runs above the gym; the scoreboard at the home end of the floor provides fans with player individual totals, along with the typical game time and score. Emory also has a small but energetic pep band, which is quick to fill time during breaks in the action with popular music and the school fight song, to fire up students and alumni. Friday night games also use a DJ to bring a bit of hype to the contest. When it comes to seating, much will depend on needs and wishes. Seating across from the team benches is wooden step-up bleachers, so there is no back support. On the other hand, the bleachers behind the team benches are more of a stadium style with seatbacks. For students, Friday night games seem to bring a bit more excitement, as Emory Athletics hosts a pre-game tailgate with free food, beer, and giveaways. This goes a long way in enticing students to come out to the game and create a fun, college basketball atmosphere. Neighborhood   4 Emory is in Atlanta’s Druid Hills neighborhood, just to the east of downtown Atlanta. On campus, Woodruff Physical Education Center is in the northwest corner, sandwiched between the campus track and tennis courts. The area immediately around Emory’s campus allows visitors to feel as if they are in a small college town. Just east of campus, Emory Village has a handful of restaurants, cafes, and shops, while to the north, Emory Point offers even more shops and restaurants, including one of Atlanta’s most highly regarded delis, The General Muir. Alternatively, if looking for more of a college town vibe with more food, drink, and entertainment options, the city of Decatur’s town square is only a short drive away. Being just over 6 miles from Downtown Atlanta, there are seemingly endless points of interest near the arena. Fans   4 Emory’s student body and fanbase definitely fill the stands, especially for Friday night games. They typically create a definitive home court advantage, but at times require a bit of a spark to get going. Fans do not seem to be overly rambunctious throughout the game, but are quick to celebrate big plays, jeer opponent mistakes, or join the Eagles’ bench in calls for “DE-FENSE!”. Access   3 Emory is in a part of Atlanta that can be a bit tricky to get to, close to being in the middle of three different interstate highways (I-85, I-20, and the Atlanta I-285 bypass). The area is fed by surface and neighborhood streets that can be rather congested on Friday evenings, when the Eagles play many of their home games. A saving grace is that Emory plays many of their games at noon on Sundays, so dealing with the trials and tribulations of Atlanta traffic is not much of an issue at this time of day. When it comes to accessing the gymnasium, a large parking deck is conveniently located on the back side of Woodruff Physical Education Center, which is just a short walk away. Fans will enter on the second level of the recreation center and proceed to the middle of the building, where they can take the stairs or elevator to the first floor, where the gymnasium’s entry point is located. Return on Investment   5 Admission to Emory Eagles basketball games is free, as is parking, so it’s hard to ask for anything more than that. Concessions are a bit hit or miss when it comes to what might seem reasonable, especially for beverages, and there really aren’t any food options to attract fans, unless they just need to grab something to tide them over. Extras   3 The hallway behind the primary seating area has two “pop-a-shot” games where fans to challenge each other to a head-to-head competition, or just see what high score can be set. The walls of the eastern entrance on the main level display the Emory Athletics Hall of Fame – one drawback though is many of the plaques are mounted so high up the wall they can be difficult to read. Along the center staircase of the WoodPEC is an interactive look at Emory University athletics and the accomplishments of each of the Eagles programs. Also included is the Emory Victory Bell that was salvaged from the Emory Victory, a World War II and Korean War-era cargo ship. The bell is rung in recognition of the achievements of student-athletes. Final Thoughts Emory University has a vibrant basketball atmosphere that encompasses much of what has traditionally made college basketball so attractive. Despite what might be considered a smaller venue, the packed stands contain a lot of energy that celebrate the highs and lows of the game. The coziness of the stands and involvement of fans create an exceptionally fun, Division III college basketball experience.

In this episode we discuss some highlights from our travels over the last few months. 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 Tuesday at 7 PM Eastern at danlaw.tv.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center 800 S. Rolling Road Baltimore, MD 21228 CCBC Catonsville Cardinals website Jack Manley Wellness and Athletics Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 1,000 Cardinals In A Dome One of the largest colleges in Maryland is largely unknown outside of the area. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) has an annual enrollment of greater than 72,000 students. Created in the 1990s by a merger of Essex Community College, Dundalk Community College, and Catonsville Community, the new college kept each of those three main campuses, along with a bevy of extension campuses around the suburban Baltimore County area. The three colleges shared a common board of trustees for years but previously operated independently. Essex, Dundalk, and Catonsville have each kept their own distinct athletic identity. CCBC Catonsville began in 1957, operating out of nearby Catonsville High School. The college is located on the site of the historic Knapp Estate. There is still the manor house of the estate, as well as ruins of various historic buildings scattered around the hilltop campus. The school mascot is the Cardinals and they play ten sports. They are a member of Region XX of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. The basketball program runs out of the Jack Manley Wellness and Athletics Center which also includes two additional basketball courts, five regulation volleyball courts, a four-lane 160-meter running track, and an eight-lane pool. Food & Beverage 1 There are no food options except for some snack machines. There is a closed concession stand behind the seats and along one of the walls but it appears unused most of the time, although it does have a concession price list posted. Atmosphere 2 There is a decent atmosphere under the Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center dome. The PA announcer does a good job, the fans are reasonably loud, and at the game we attended there was a cheerleader group offering some atmosphere. The basketball court is a rubberized surface and not the preferred hardwood court. The court sits at the center of the arena, with even the small grandstand floating out inside the venue’s running court. There is a very large amount of extra space around the basketball floor. There is only a single set of stands opposite the benches and scoring table. Neighborhood 3 CCBC Catonsville is a suburban community college with its main neighbor being the high school and nearby University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). You will have to venture a bit far from campus for any food or drinks. Downtown Baltimore is roughly a 15 to 20-minute drive down I-95. Catonsville's main street, Frederick Road, is filled with many food and drink options. Nearby Arbutus will also be a good source of options. We like Sorrentos in the downtown section of Arbutus for a good sub or cheesesteak before the game. Fans 3 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few residents who attend the games. Access 4 The CCBC Catonsville campus is easy to access, as it is located off Route 166 / Exit 47B of I-95. There is plenty of free parking on the campus. If classes are in session you may expect to park a bit further away from the dome. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level JUCO program at no cost. . Extras 2 Walk around campus and see the solar panels that have been added to many parking areas on campus. All of the CCBC campuses have added these and expect to get more than a quarter of their electricity from solar. This 5.1-megawatt project is expected to generate 6.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year and joins the 16.1-megawatt array at Mount St. Mary’s University in an effort by local colleges to expand solar usage. There are many banners and plaques scattered around the Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center displaying the various personal and team accomplishments of Cardinals athletes. Final Thoughts The Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center serves as a decent venue for sports and classes, but currently, it is an outdated venue for any level of intercollegiate sports. Even so, the experience here is lively and fun.

It’s the dead of winter, spring training is over a month away, and even the baseball discussion groups on Facebook and X are dead quiet. What’s a baseball fan to do? The winter months are a great time to plan your baseball journeys for the spring and summer. 101 Baseball Places to See Before You Strike Out, by Josh Pahigian, is a wonderful resource for anyone who loves baseball. It doesn’t cover the current major and minor league stadiums, as that information is readily available on the internet. The book’s focus is on the hundreds of baseball shrines across the country that you might pass by on your baseball trips, simply because you were not aware of their existence. Obviously, Cooperstown is included in the book, but it also includes the Canadian Hall of Fame and Museum, the National College Baseball Hall of Fame and the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. There are also individual Hall of Fames dedicated to such baseball elites such as Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Roger Maris, Ty Cobb, Bob Feller and Dizzy Dean. Film fans will be interested in the many sites around the country that were used in the production of baseball themed movies. These include the Field of Dreams cornfield and home in Dyersville, Iowa, the Durham, NC stadium used in Bull Durham. Other baseball pop culture sites featured in the book include the Simpsons statues at Isotopes Park in Albuquerque, NM and the Bob Uecker Seats at American Family Field in Milwaukee. Another section of the book focuses on some behind the scenes baseball sites that make baseball games possible. The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory in Louisville, KY and the Baseball Mud Site in New Jersey are covered in one of the chapters. While you are out on your baseball road trip, it’s easy to work up an appetite for something other than a fast-food stop. 101 Baseball Places provides you with detailed information on restaurants with a baseball connection. Among the sites covered in this chapter are the Yankee Tavern in the Bronx, McCovey’s Restaurant on Walnut Creek, CA, Bobby Valentine’s Sports Gallery Café in Stamford, CT and Chappell’s Restaurant and Sports Museum in Kansas City, MO. There is also a chapter covering the Negro Leagues and the eventual integration of major league baseball. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a must see for baseball travelers in the Kansas City area. There are Jackie Robinson Trails in both Pasadena, CA and New York City. The Jackie Robinson Ballpark and Museum in Daytona, FL is located at the actual stadium made his major league debut with the Dodgers. We’ve only scratched the surface on the many baseball-related attractions and restaurants waiting for you this spring and summer. 101 Baseball Places to See Before You Strike Out is an indispensable resource for any baseball traveler. See you out on the road!

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Reynolds Center 800 South Tucker Drive Tulsa, OK 74104 Tulsa Golden Hurricane website Reynolds Center website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 8,355 Tulsa Time The Donald W. Reynolds Center is home to the University of Tulsa Golden Hurricane basketball and volleyball teams in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The multi-purpose arena is 138,000 square feet and was first built in 1998. The 8,355-seat capacity of the arena makes it the sixth-largest basketball arena in Conference USA. The basketball program began in 1907 and within ten years the team was playing games out of state. The team has made 16 Final Four Tournament appearances, highlighted by an Elite 8 appearance in 2000. Before joining Conference USA, Tulsa was a member of the Missouri Valley Conference and Western Athletic Conference. Food & Beverage 3 The choices of cuisine are varied. The concession stands sell funnel cakes, French fries, chicken baskets, and burgers along with traditional venue food like popcorn, hot dogs, and bratwurst. The variety is hurt by the fact that Pepsi products are your only choice of beverage. Side vendors also serve up barbecue sandwiches and frozen chill drinks, each of which tastes really good. The number of concession stands is very accommodating. Lines were very small even during halftime, and the stands are adequately placed throughout the arena. There were only two side vendors though. One served the barbecue on one side of the arena while the other sold the frozen drinks on the whole other side. The prices are average, completely normal for any type of sporting event. While the variety is good, some of the quality of things like pretzels and hotdogs is sacrificed for quantity. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is pretty fun, with a decent amount of sponsored games that award prizes to certain sections. There were also a couple of on-the-court games at halftime that allowed individuals to win decent prizes. The arena is bowl-shaped with two levels. The bottom level goes all the way around, while the top level is more of a horse shoe. The open end of that horseshoe is an open forum where you enter the stadium that is flanked by concession stands and looks out over the court. The main scoreboard is on the huge video screen hanging out over the court. It is much bigger than I expected given the size of the arena itself. There is also a video screen in front of the scorer’s table between the two teams’ benches that showed various stats for each team throughout the game. This is one of the few arenas or stadiums I’ve been in where I liked the higher level of seating. The view is really great, especially in the middle where you can see the entire court and the huge scoreboard. Individual seats give plenty of room and are comfortable. Neighborhood 1 The neighborhood is definitely on the low end of the spectrum for this venue. I found very little in the way of interesting places to go or things to do around the area. The campus is very pretty, but there was virtually nothing in the way of fan interaction. The average fast food joints are all I could find nearby. Fans 3 It’s difficult to gauge the fans in this venue. The crowd wasn’t very big and at times seemed very disinterested. However, there was a general murmur of support throughout the entire game. The student section is very spirited, waving big yellow sticks and hypnotic, vortex-like signs. Most of the crowd seemed to be made up of students and older alumni, with little in between. However, the crowd can get very loud, very quickly, despite its small size. One dunk, in particular, made the arena go as loud as any I’ve heard. Access 2 The parking around the arena is terrible. Get there early. Otherwise, you’ll be looking for a spot for a long time. The best bet for parking is to find an open spot on a nearby street. There aren’t any parking lots within a considerable walking distance that are open to the single-game fan. Walkways up to the arena and inside it are very spacious and accommodating. The restrooms are clean and have plenty of room. They also each have two entrances/exits to keep traffic jams to a minimum. Return on Investment 3 A ticket in the upper level (which is better, in my opinion, for a good view) only costs $10 or $19 for seats toward the middle of the upper level. Tickets for seats closer to the court go as high as $39 per ticket, which is still pretty affordable. That being said, I don’t think the return on the investment is good unless you go with the cheaper upper-level tickets, especially since the view is better up there. . Extras 1 One of the most entertaining parts of the entire experience was the remote control blimp that was flown around the stands at halftime. It was at least 8 feet long and flew around the big scoreboard in the middle. It was so neat that my fiancee, who was with me, immediately looked up the cost of one on her phone. Final Thoughts The atmosphere is pretty fun and makes a decent fan experience.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Spectrum Center 333 E Trade St Charlotte, NC 28202 Charlotte Hornets website Spectrum Center website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 19,077 Spectrum Center – Charlotte Hornets The Hornets came to Charlotte as part of the NBA’s 1988 expansion along with the Miami Heat. Even as they went through the growing pains of an expansion franchise, the Hornets were an instant success at the turnstiles, ranking in the top two in attendance for their first ten years of existence. With a nucleus of Muggsy Bogues, Kendall Gill, Alonzo Mourning, Larry Johnson, and sharpshooting Dell Curry, all signs pointed to a bright future for the Hornets. A myriad of hurdles to the early success of the franchise ultimately led to the core being dismantled, starting a downward spiral which ended in the team’s relocation to New Orleans following the 2001-2002 season. The NBA would return to Charlotte in 2004 with a new identity, the Charlotte Bobcats, and a promise of a new arena. Charlotte would christen what is now Spectrum Center in 2005. Since their return, the Hornets and previously the Bobcats, have seen spikes of success, but have found sustaining it a challenge. The Hornets now have a new ownership group in place, led by former Hornets minority owner Gabe Plotkin and former Atlanta Hawks minority owner Rick Schnell. The two have voiced their concerns about some of the shortcomings of the franchise, and how they plan to address them going forward. Food & Beverage   4 Spectrum Center offers fans a full selection of traditional stadium fare with many specialty dishes. The star of Spectrum Center’s menu might very well be the chimichurri steak sandwich, served on a toasted ciabatta roll with tomato and arugula and topped with chimichurri and horseradish sauces, available at the club marketplace. Solid choices can also be found at Piedmont Pit, with their burnt ends and Cheerwine glazed smoked sausage. Other selections include pizza from the Charlotte founded Brixx Pizza, burgers from Uptown Grille, and Noda Cantina’s loaded nachos. In addition, fans have a wide selection of both mass distributed beers to go with options from several local breweries – the most eye-catching for Charlotte fans possibly is the Hornet branded Stinger Ale from the Kannapolis, North Carolina-based Old Armor Beer Company.  There are also several cocktail bars around the arena serving traditional mixed drinks alongside specialty cocktails. The lone drawback seems to be a limited number of local eateries, which would add a bit of a taste of Charlotte to the experience. On the whole, concessions at Spectrum Center give fans a large number of options of both the expected pizza, pretzels, nachos, and burgers, as well as more chef-inspired plates. Atmosphere   3 Originally constructed in 2006, Spectrum Center’s use of large, curved windows and soaring grand entry point gives the arena a contemporary feel to it. The concourses use a mix of gray and the Hornets’ teal and purple as accent colors around the arena; the seating bowl continues this theme with dark-colored seats that are offset by the purple and teal court. A large, six screen scoreboard hangs over center court – the sideline facing, high-definition LED screens each cover over 1,000 square feet, while the baseline screens run over 550 square feet. Screens on the underbelly of the scoreboard cover over 150 square feet, and help save the necks of fans seated near the court by not making them constantly look straight up. Four large boards are also suspended in each of the arena’s corners and provide real-time game statistics, out-of-town scores, and video promotion feeds during breaks in the action. The NBA game is built around the constant entertainment of fans – pre-game and throughout, in-game hosts for Hive TV, Jacinda and Fly Ty, along with Ohavia, make fans feel at home as they host the arena pre-game show, fill time during timeouts with contests and other fan interactions, and hype up fans before play resumes. What seems to be lacking the most is a significant social area for fans to congregate in as they watch the game. Except for the Dr. Pepper Pavilion on the upper level of the arena, and drink rails along the outside of the club marketplace, there really are not a lot of these social gathering areas. The Hornets have recognized this, however, and have recently announced a series of upgrades to Spectrum Center in what has been branded as Re!magine. As Spectrum Center begins renovations in line with current trends in sports entertainment, this should only enhance the game experience of an evening with the Hornets. Neighborhood   5 Spectrum Center is in Charlotte’s Uptown district, the heart of the entertainment center of downtown Charlotte. This area is ripe with bars and restaurants for several different tastes, hotels, and attractions. Within walking distance are the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the homes of the Carolina Panthers (NFL) and Charlotte Knights (AAA – MiLB), at Bank of America Stadium and Truist Field respectively. Bojangles’ Coliseum where the Charlotte Checkers (AHL) play is also just a short drive away. Charlotte’s Uptown district is truly a gem of an area. The location of Spectrum Center does give fans what seems like endless options when it comes to making a full day of a trip downtown, finding a pregame bite to eat, or making the Hornets a part of a night on the town. Fans   2 The Hornets have typically been in the lower quarter of the league in attendance. While attendance numbers do spike throughout the season, those games tend to be influenced by fans of players of visiting teams coming into town. When it comes to Hornets fans, throughout the game they are definitely not outnumbered by the opposition, but visiting teams do seem to get more support on the road than expected. Hornets fans do get loud when prompted by a big defensive stop, a monster dunk, or the Hornets making a pivotal run, but there is a feel that the fans need to warm up a bit before they are fully engaged in the ebbs and flows of the game. Where the organization stands today, after years of less than stellar outcomes, is a bit of a feeling that Charlotte fans are cautious about going all in on the organization. The Hornets currently rank near the bottom in NBA attendance, but have shown they will be supportive of a team when there is consistency on the floor. Access   5 Spectrum Center is centrally located in Charlotte’s Uptown district, and is relatively easy to get to from I-277, which horseshoes Uptown Charlotte. Adding to the ease of getting to Spectrum Center is Charlotte’s light rail system, Lynx, dropping fans off at the neighboring Charlotte Transportation Center. Entry into Spectrum Center runs smoothly with limited backup. Hornet fans seem to be a bit late arriving, so there is not much of a push as doors open, but rather more of a consistent flow of fans coming through over a longer duration. Most will enter through one of two primary entrances, one along E. 5th Street and another on E. Trade Street, where fans enter into a large, three-story atrium. Entrances for club seating are also spread out around the exterior of the arena. Once inside, fans will find the concourses are rather easy to navigate. Both upper and lower-level concourses encircle each level of seating, without disruption or challenges to getting around. The court is not visible from the concourse, however, except from the Dr. Pepper Pavilion in the upper level. On the whole, Charlotte is a rather accessible city for those coming for a major event. Professional sporting events will always draw sizable crowds, but with downtown arenas parking is often not concentrated at the site; rather it is spread out over a larger area, which helps alleviate the headaches created by traffic congestion. Return on Investment   4 Dynamic pricing of tickets creates a market that is relative to the demand for games. Tickets against teams of less interest from around the league can start at under $20 in the upper levels. One of the biggest hurdles when using primary sources such as Ticketmaster is that this adds a hefty service fee to the face value of the ticket; this is also the case when looking at tickets on the secondary market. Unfortunately, avoiding add-on fees is nearly impossible. Concessions prices also tend to be a bit erratic – while main dishes tend to be well-priced, the basics of soda and popcorn do seem a bit on the far end of the pricing scale. In a time when parking can often rival ticket prices, affordable parking is readily available directly across the street from the front entrance of Spectrum Center. If looking to avoid parking fees, Lynx offers free park and ride and round-trip fares running less than $5, which can make the cost more affordable. So when  looking at prices on the whole, the Hornets offer one of the more reasonable price points in the NBA. Extras   3 The concourse of Spectrum Center is a look at the history of the Hornets franchise, from the early successes of Muggsy Bogues, Dell Curry, Larry Johnson, and Alonzo Mourning through the NBA’s return to the city as the Bobcats, and their transition back to the current day Hornets. The #13 jersey of Bobby Phills hangs in the rafters as the only number the franchise has retired – Phills passed away in an automobile accident during the 2000 season. The concourse gives fans several fun photo ops by ways of large Dell Curry and Muggsy Bogues bobbleheads, to one of a kind Hornet-themed artwork and a life-size replica of Hugo, the Hornet mascot. Final Thoughts The Hornets are currently in a transitional phase with their recent change in ownership. The new owners have acknowledged the shortcomings and are entering into their ownership with a plan in place to address those issues, namely improving the game experience to draw fans to Spectrum Center, as well as the most important aspect of the fan experience, creating a championship-caliber team. Given the circumstances surrounding the departure of the original Hornets from Charlotte, it is hard to blame the fanbase for being reluctant to throw their full support behind the organization. Since returning to Charlotte, there has not been the consistency needed to sustain fan interest for the long haul. A change in ownership often signals a new ray of hope when it comes to the direction of a struggling franchise.  Bottom line, winning breeds a positive culture and exciting atmosphere that is infectious throughout a community. Currently, the franchise seems to be starting to turn the corner and give fans hope of a brighter future for the Hornets.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Enterprise Center 1401 Clark Ave St Louis, MO 63103 St. Louis Blues website Enterprise Center website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 19,022 St. Louis is No Longer Singing the Blues The St. Louis Blues were born in 1967 and in 2019 they reached the pinnacle of the NHL by winning their first Stanley Cup championship. From 1967 to 1994 the Blues played at St. Louis Arena before moving to The Enterprise Center formerly Scottrade, Savvis and Kiel Center. The building is owned by the City of St. Louis. The arena seems a bit older than some of the modern buildings but a recent renovation has kept the arena relatively up to date. The Enterprise Center also hosts concerts, WWE, Disney on Ice and the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament in March. The Blues feature a local band which entertains before and during each game on a stage built during the renovations.  Blues fans are supportive and many sport jerseys.  The team is lucky to be the only professional team in the city that plays during the late fall and winter months. Food & Beverage 4 There is a wide array of food and beverage choices. The arena does an impressive job of highlighting local food including beer.  Some of the choices include tacos, barbeque (Sugarfire), St. Louis style pizza and toasted ravioli.  Pepsi products are the beverage of choice and there is St. Louis’ own AB (Anheuser Busch) Beer Garden and Brews of the Lou for non Budweiser choices.  There is also a Shake Shack on the lower level, 3 Stripes Pizza and Hi-Pointe Drive-In (burgers and sandwiches). Beer runs $13.99 for a 25 ounce can, Premium Draft beer is $11.49, 16 ounce bottle is $9.99 and $6.49 for soda (Pepsi products) while bottled water is $5.99. St. Louis style hot dog (provolone cheese, bacon, onions, mustard and banana peppers) is $13.99.  A regular hot dog or a pretzel with cheese are both $9.99.  Two tacos at Mission Taco are $9.49. There are also full bars and grab and go areas for beer and soda purchases which reduces wait times. Atmosphere 4 As you enter the arena running parallel to Clark Avenue at Gate 2, fans pass through Hall of Fame Plaza (installed in 2015), which features bronze statues of Blues icons Brett Hull, Al MacInnis and Bernie Federko. Once inside the rafters are filled with many Division and Conference Championship banners including the 2019 Stanley Cup Championship banner. Banners also recognize the retired numbers of MacInnis, Hull and Federko, along with brothers Bob and Barclay Plager, Brian Sutter, Doug Wickenheiser, Bob Gassoff and announcer Dan Kelly. Assisted Listening Devices are available from the Guest Experience Center located on the Plaza concourse across from Portal 19. Devices are handed out on a first come, first serve basis and are provided free of charge. The scoreboard shows the players on the ice and often updates the total ice time for each skater.  The leg room is average.  The concourse is wide enough for fans to move around but bathroom lines cause gridlock in between periods. Another Enterprise Center staple is superfan Ron Baechle. Since 1990 Baechle, also known as the "Towel Man" or "Towel Guy," is shown on the big screen from section 314 waving his towel and igniting the crowd after every Blues goal. The new center scoreboard is a welcomed addition. The three-ton board features twelve screens and is almost twice as large as the old scoreboard. The LED ribbon board added to the first mezzanine level was the first complete 360-degree ribbon board display in the NHL and has a display area of 2,800 sq. ft. Several other lighting and sound upgrades were also made throughout the arena. Enterprise Center sports an encompassing 4,100 square feet Team Store on the main level and stocks an extensive collection of Blues apparel, accessories and novelties. Store locations are also on the Mezzanine and PNC Premier levels. The three-year renovation completed in 2022 included a Beer Garden on the first level complete with a stage for live performances. The Blues have a live band on stage performing before game and during intermissions as part of their Rhythm and Blues campaign. Club and Terrace Level seats were all updated and the Clark Avenue Club and The Ledge were added with new food and drink options. A Blues Fan Deck was added behind the goal that St. Louis defends twice. Neighborhood 4 The arena is in Downtown West with many attractions close by including the Stifel Theater, CityPark home of St. Louis SC and Union Station. St. Louis City Hall and many of the municipal buildings are also in close proximity. Busch Stadium and its Ballpark Village entertainment complex are within walking distance or one stop away on the Light Rail. The St. Louis Wheel is next to Union Station and serves as an excellent observation point. It is open year round and features 42 climate control gondolas than can carry up to eight passengers. The famous Gateway Arch is about one mile walk. For lodging, Curio Collection (Hilton Hotel), Courtyard Marriott, Fairfield Inn and 21c Museum Hotel and Drury Inn are just a few of the many hotels nearby. Fans 4 The Blues averaged 18,049 last year which is basically a sell out every night. The Blues are averaging 18,074 in 23-24 so the economy had not curtailed ticket sales. The crowd is enthusiastic, despite not a lot of artificial noise.  Louie, a polar bear, is the St. Louis Blues mascot and on this visit was not often visible.  The Cheerleaders are located in the Cheer Deck. The organ is a pleasant sound and plays The Blues Come Marching In after each St. Louis goal and the crowd responds with a resounding “Let’s Go Blues!” chant.  At the conclusion of the national anthem, the fans replace: Home of the Brave with Home of the Blues!  The Blues do a nice job of mixing stadium anthems with songs played by the organ.  Everything is played at a decent decibel level. The arena’s most recent tradition is the playing of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Roads” in the third period and the crowd responds enthusiastically.  The song was first played during the 2019 Stanley Cup run. Access 4 The Enterprise Center is easily accessed either by expressway or by public transit. There are plenty of parking lots nearby and prices range from $15-$25.  There is also a light rail system (called MetroLink) that stops conveniently at Civic Center. It costs $2.50 per ride and $5 for a one day pass.  Amtrak stops at nearby Union Station. There are four gates at Enterprise.  The main gate is 2 and all gates open 1.5 hours before the event starts and 15 minutes earlier for season ticket holders.  The area is walkable and there are a number of restaurants and hotels in the vicinity. The bag policy is clutches no larger than 4” x 6” x 1.5” are permitted after visual inspection and will not be subject to x-ray screening. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are about average for an NHL game. Upper bowl seats for a weeknight can be had for around $52 but those seats increase to around $90 for weekend games. The lower bowl is about $90 for a weeknight in the corners and elevates to $150 and up for weekend dates. The fan cost metric in 2022 ranked the Blues near the middle of the league at $421.54 (20 out of 32) which includes four non-premium tickets, two beers, two sodas, four hot dogs and two souvenir hats. Extras 3 The team was named after the W.C. Handy song “St. Louis Blues” from 1914 and the song is played by organist Jeremy Boyer before every game. The arena hosts a variety of events throughout the year. In April 2025, the arena will host the College Hockey Championships better known as the Frozen Four. Final Thoughts The Enterprise Center is a solid venue to take in an NHL hockey game.  The arena features good food and drink choices and favorable sight lines. The fans are warm, inviting and enthusiastic about their team which is now a St. Louis tradition for over 55 years.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It has been 30 years since Paramount Pictures turned an Indiana high school gymnasium into a movie set. The movie ‘Blue Chips’ was filmed over 4 days at Frankfort’s Case Arena, and a few weekends ago, the high school honored the film set with a 30th-anniversary game complete with throwback uniforms and signage. The movie starred Nick Nolte, Shaquille O’Neil, and Penny Hardaway and featured basketball legends Bobby Knight, Bob Cousy, Dick Vitale, and many others. Nolte and O’Neil could not attend, but Shaq donated a pair of Reebok Above the Rim Pumps to the Frankfort team, a replica of the shoes worn in the movie. The Case Arena transformed into the Dolphin Dome with signage, a court design with a dolphin logo in the center, signage in the lobby and concourse level, and names of the fictional teams on the lower scoreboard. The hometown Frankfort Hot Dogs became the fictional Western University Dolphins, while their opponent, the Rossville Hornets, became Team Indiana, just like in the movie. The gym was packed, which hadn’t been the norm for a boy’s basketball game in quite some time. The Case Arena holds 5,200 - 22nd in the world in size. That number was met as fans poured into the building, donning the blue and gold of the fictional Western University team.  Anthony C. Hall appeared at the game and signed an autograph after his half-time appearance. He played Tony the Point-Shaver in the film. A few more extras appeared, and they all shared their experiences from the movie set 30 summers ago. The fete to pull off the throwback game was a monumental task as 50-plus volunteers and support staff helped sell and scan tickets in the lobby, worked the score table, handled media information, sold merchandise and game day programs, and handled security. Even the concession stands needed more assistance with popcorn popping throughout the night in bunches. Western, I mean the Hot Dogs, pulled off a 54-39 victory over Indiana, aka Rossville, in front of a delightful fanbase that has not seen the place rocking like this in quite some time. Case Arena is one of the state's bigger gyms with a design that would make a college program envy.  The environment for the special occasion brought back memories for those who were there 30-years-ago and produced a night for those who were not there, a chance to take a trip back in time to when Frankfort was part of movie magic.  ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter , Instagram , and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex 550 Belsyde Ave Fergus, ON N1M 2W5 Fergus Whalers website Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 1,200 Hail To The (Junior C) Whale In Ontario, hockey can be found all over the province, in all manner of size and shape. Junior hockey is often the lifeblood of the small town and in 2023 it returned to Fergus, Ontario. Northwest of Guelph, Fergus can be found in the Township of Centre Wellington and boasts a modest population of just over 20,000. Junior hockey had been absent from Fergus since the departure of the Fergus Devils in 2015, partially due to travel issues. Jason Baier brought the expansion Whalers to Fergus and the Provincial Junior Hockey League where they compete for the Schmalz Cup at the Junior C level. Home for the Whalers is the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex.  It's a larger community hub that also houses a second ice pad, gym, meeting rooms and a pool has been added on and renovated a few times.  The main ice pad, Pad A, was built in the seventies and then was added on in the two-thousands.  Fergus is famous for its annual Scottish Highland Games and the Whalers are counting on being a big part of life in Fergus. Food & Beverage 2 Concession options at Centre Wellington Sportsplex are fairly minimalistic. A concession stand outside of the ice pad, in the rec centre that was not open during the game that was reviewed. Many fans brought their own fare from Tim Hortons or Starbucks. Drink and snack vending machines are available outside of Pad A. Other beverages, including beer and spirits are sold in the beer garden in the upper end of the arena. Atmosphere 3 The Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex, like many venues in junior hockey, is part of a larger community hub which includes a variety of sporting facilities.  The exterior is fairly nondescript with a long brick and grey siding exterior where the original arena was.  The main entrance, accessible from Belsyde Avenue, is clearly a more modern addition.   Upon entering the Sportsplex, the ice surfaces will be on the right, while opposite the arena entrance is the donor wall, which brings some artistic value to the area with a natural rock look to it.  Immediately to the right upon entering the Sportsplex is the Community Hall of Fame, a long hallway on the northwest side of the arena complete with numerous trophy cases full of artifacts from various Fergus sports.  It is clear that lacrosse is quite popular in the area.  Fergus product and NHL player Jamie McGinn has a framed jersey and entry into the Fergus Sports Hall of Fame. Outside of the ice pad entries, the Whalers play in Pad A, temporary tables are set up for fans to purchase tickets and programs.  Entering Pad A, fans will immediately notice the change in temperature as the arena is quite cold.  The ice surface runs from northeast to southwest with seating on the northwest side, wooden benches on concrete steps.  Fans should select their seat wisely and situate themselves under the propane powered heaters or bring their own blankets.  The simple hockey score clock hangs at the top of the southwest side of the arena.  The opposite wall from the seating is where numerous youth hockey banners hang, as well as the Intermediate C Champions banner from the 1980-81 Fergus Flyers.  A unique feature of the Sportsplex is the lounge at the northeast end of the ice.  The glass that looks out to the ice surface is the same glass that is along the boards.  Trophy cases are also found in the lounge, which is a good place to watch the game and avoid the cold, as well as a framed jersey of Dan Crone, a former Fergus Devil player who died in 1993 while a member of the team.  Above the lounge is the Beer Garden, which also allows for the game to be watched in a warmer temperature. The gameday production at the Whalers game is very simple.  Promotions include the 50/50 draw, chuck-a-puck and program raffles.  The PA system in Pad A is not terrific and it is difficult to hear the announcements at times.  Music is played during down times, but the Whalers have latched on to their roots with The Fables’ “Heave Away” as their goal song, a nod to their Scottish roots.  Also, the team enters the ice to the classic Hartford Whalers tune “Brass Bonanza.” Neighbourhood 3 Fergus is a small town of 20,000 and has small town offerings. The CW Sportsplex is on the east end of town a few blocks from Highway 6, where most of the commercial options are found. Many chain and fast food restaurants are found on Highway 6, but for those looking for some less corporate options, Offside Sports Bar and The Goofie Newfie are choices to consider. The Whalers are pretty much the only sporting option in town for spectators. In the summer months the Junior C lacrosse Fergus Thistles may be of interest. Otherwise, heading southeast to Guelph for other sporting options would be the best other option. As far as other tourist options, Fergus is most well known for August’s Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games. The Fergus Theatre may also be of interest. For those wishing to stay in Fergus, the Best Western is available. Fans 3 In their first season, the Fergus Whalers have drawn between 150 and 350 fans per game. The top teams in the PJHL draw between 500 and 1000 fans per game. By no means are the Whalers at the bottom of the league in attendance, there is plenty of room for growth. Fans in attendance are pretty quiet, which is not unusual for Ontario fans. Access 4 Getting to the Centre Wellington Sportsplex is not difficult.  It is located on the east side of Fergus not far from Highway 6, the main entry to the town.  Traversing through Fergus will be required and fans should be careful of passing the school zone with its slow speed limit on the way to the game.  There is plenty of parking at the Sportsplex and there is no charge for it.  There is no public transit in Fergus, which is not surprising due to the size of the town.  Getting around the Sportsplex is no problem at all and the washroom facilities are very good.  Ticketing is done at a temporary table outside of the entry of Pad A.  There are no physical tickets or online ticket purchasing options. Return on Investment 5 PJHL hockey offers great value for the dollar.  Tickets for the Whalers are only $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors.  Parking is free and there isn’t much in the way of concessions.  The product on the ice is decent and fans will have a good time watching the Whalers. Extras 2 An extra mark for the return of junior hockey to Fergus. An extra mark for using the most underrated goal song ever, Brass Bonanza. Final Thoughts Time will tell if the Fergus Whalers will be a long term success in the PJHL.  It is a great opportunity for Fergus residents to take in some hockey.  Catching a game at the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex is a great way to spend an evening in small town Ontario. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Reed Green Coliseum 112 M. K. Turk Circle Hattiesburg, MS 39406 Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles website Reed Green Coliseum website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 8,095 The Eagle's Nest at the Yurt In the Hub City of Hattiesburg lies the University of Southern Mississippi. The men’s basketball team here has experienced some success on the hardwood since their first season in 1912-13, including appearing in the NAIA National Tournament four times in the 1950s, as well as appearing in three NCAA Tournaments (1990, 1991, and 2012). In 2022 a new era began for Southern Miss athletics as they joined the Sun Belt Conference, after competing in Conference USA for 27 seasons, winning one C-USA Championship. In their first year in the Sun Belt the Golden Eagles would take the conference by storm, winning the Sun Belt Conference regular season title, but the Golden Eagles would experience their most success as members of the Metro Conference from 1982-1995, with their biggest feat winning the 1987 NIT Championship. Since 1965 the Golden Eagles have competed on campus at Reed Green Coliseum. The building is named after long-time Southern Miss Athletic Director and three-sport coach Reed Green, but the arena is known by Golden Eagle faithful as ‘The Yurt’. It is small, yet all the seats are close to the action, and there is not a bad view from anywhere in the building. Food & Beverage   3 The Yurt has two permanent concessions stands, both located on the same side at the north entrance. The aptly named Eagles Bites stand features reasonable prices but a small menu – hamburgers or sausage dogs ($7), hot dogs, nachos, or boiled peanuts ($5), and candy ($3) are your options. You can also order a hot dog, hamburger, or sausage combo that comes with a Southern Miss souvenir cup for $10. For beverages, Coca-Cola is the official provider with 22 oz drinks costing $5, or you can get the souvenir cup for $7. If you purchase the souvenir cup you will get $1 refills throughout the game. Reed Green Coliseum also has a side stand located off in a corridor on the east side of the building, called Black and Gold, which sells pulled pork or brisket sandwiches for $5, popcorn for $3, and a few other items. Alcohol is available at all three stands here, with 16 oz domestic cans selling for $5 (Miller, Coors, and Michelob Ultra) while premium cans are $7. Southern Miss also partners with the local Southern Prohibition Brewery which serves their signature Gold Rush beer – this beer is available for $8 and features a black and gold can with the Southern Miss logo, and when shown under the light you can see a hologram of the M. M. Roberts Stadium, home of Southern Miss football. Atmosphere   3 Yurt is Turkish for "tent-like cover”, and as it turns out the first thing you notice upon entering Reed Green Coliseum from the outside is its large tin dome-shaped roof. In addition, they recently re-did the lighting system so the roof of the building stands out instantly, explaining the nickname. The coliseum goes by several other nicknames as well, such as Green House and NITChampsburg, honoring the 1987 NIT Champions. Upon entering the arena you’ll see that all the seats are built below ground level – all 8,095 seats are located on one level, so there is not a bad view from anywhere in the building. You enter along the concourse and walk down to your seat; the main entrance is on the north side of Reed Green Coliseum, but you can enter the building from wherever, as there are doors on all sides of the building with ushers present. The arena has one wraparound concourse with views of the court from everywhere you walk except for the concessions area. The seating bowl features about 25 rows of seats; over half the seats are wooden bench seating, while the black and gold chairback seats are located on the north side of the facility in five black and gold alternating sections. The Golden Eagles have only made three NCAA Tournament appearances, not winning any of those tournaments, but you wouldn’t be able to tell it here. Just walking around Reed Green Coliseum you can tell the Athletic Department takes great pride in the history of the men’s and women’s basketball programs. Along the concourse is a trophy case with trophies dating back to the Metro Conference days, and both the men’s and women’s teams have banners that wrap all around the ceiling of the building – the main banner that stands out is the 1987 NIT Champions banner on the south side of the arena. The Yurt also recently installed two video boards in the end courts and they take advantage of this by frequently playing videos and replays on the video boards. The court faces east and west with the student section located on the west end court.   The court is also illuminated well, with the state of Mississippi painted at center court and the Golden Eagles logo located where Hattiesburg is in relation to the rest of the state. Neighborhood   3 Hattiesburg (aka The Burg) is a decent-sized city of about 50,000 people, so it has everything you could want in a city, but still retains that college town feel. The Burg has a wide selection of bars and restaurants, but unlike most college towns they are not located near each other – instead they are spread out throughout the city. A cool little spot nearby to check out is the Long Leaf Trace; what was once a railroad is now a paved trail that runs right through campus. It is possible to get on the Trace and ride a bike into the city. A couple of places within walking distance to campus from the Trace are places like Patio 44, Brewsky's, and 4th Street Bar – if you are looking for vintage Southern Miss memorabilia then 4th Street Bar is your place. Another popular spot on the Trace about a half mile away from campus is Colludium Brewing Company, Hattiesburg's newest brewery. Colludium has a nice outdoor patio overlooking the Trace, and makes for a great spot to have a beer before the game. Closer to downtown you'll find popular spots like Keg & Barrel, The Porter, Hattiesburger, Fairley Wings, and Nostalgia. As a southern city, Hattiesburg has its fair share of restaurants centered on the local fare; popular spots include Crescent City Grill, Brass Hat, Midtown, Chesterfields, Ed's Burger Joint, Stricks, and Murky Waters BBQ. There is also plenty to for all ages – for families there's the Hattiesburg Zoo and Serenghetti Springs Water Park. Downtown also features the popular Pocket Museum, Mississippi's tiniest museum; located in an alleyway downtown, the popular museum has a different theme each month (we can't tell you where the alley is because part of the charm of the Pocket Museum is being able to find it). For shopping there are plenty of chain stores as well as Turtle Creek Mall, while another popular spot is the Lucky Rabbit – located downtown, Lucky Rabbit is a two-story vintage thrift store with tons of antiques and local Southern Miss memorabilia. Or if you are into the outdoors, in addition to Long Leaf Trace there is Paul B. Johnson State Park, just south of Hattiesburg and an excellent spot for camping. In addition, another popular pastime is rafting down the Okatoma River that runs right through Hattiesburg, all the way to the Coast. Fans   4 It is a new era for Southern Miss basketball since joining the Sun Belt Conference in 2022 – the once lowly basketball program has experienced a great turnaround over the past two years. In their first year in the conference the Golden Eagles unexpectedly won the Sun Belt Conference regular season, and there's been a certain buzz in the air in Hattiesburg about Southern Miss hoops ever since; fans are now returning to the Yurt for the first time in years. The Golden Eagles are averaging 4,000 fans per home game this season, compared to 3,700 fans per game last year, including the largest crowd in Southern Miss basketball history ever, with over 8,000 fans attending the game. Reed Green Coliseum has also turned into a tough place to play for visiting teams; last year Southern Miss team went undefeated at home with a record of 15-0. When school is in session games here have a big turnout from the students as well, although during Christmas break games there are not a lot of students. The band also doesn't attend certain games when school isn't going on either, but when the students show up it can be a pretty loud and intimidating place to play. The Golden Eagles also do a good job keeping fans engaged, with many contests and giveaways during timeouts and during halftime. The staff also has a lot of promotions on the court where they give away gift cards, as well as have free throw contests, three-point contests, and a putting game where you can sign up to win prizes. Seymour, the Golden Eagle mascot, is there in full force as well, interacting with fans and kids. The school president Joe Paul is a constant presence at games too, and can often be found mingling with students or walking up and down the aisles shaking fans’ hands. When Dr. Paul walks out the fans scream his name and cheer, something I've never seen a fanbase do for a school president. Access   4 You will not miss the campus when coming into town, as the campus is located right on the corner of Highway 49 and Hardy Street, the two main roads through the city. Interstate 55 runs to Hardy Street on the west side of town, so you could use that exit as well, but traffic might be backed up on Hardy Street. Reed Green Coliseum is on the back side of campus at the 4th Street entrance. There is plenty of parking right next to the venue, but this is reserved for season ticket holders and people who have chairback seat tickets. However, there are two free lots you can park and walk to the venue from – the Pride Field lot on the other side of the volleyball facility has plenty of parking, and Thad Cochran Center closer to the football stadium has plenty of free parking as well. The Union also has a large metered parking lot right across from Pride Field. Once inside the building there is plenty of room to move around, and you can leave the venue and come back again, as the no re-entry rule is not enforced. Return on Investment   3 Tickets for a Golden Eagles basketball game can be found for $11 in the wooden seat section, or $22 in the black and gold chairback seats. The atmosphere is laid back here for most games, though, so it is possible to move around and sit wherever you want. I would consider a trip to the Green House a great experience and one I recommend – it is a very cozy and intimate place to play without a bad view anywhere, so wherever you sit you are going to get great views of the court. Extras   4 Southern Miss has had five players play in the NBA or ABA, including two players from the 1987 NIT Championship team (journeyman Joe Courtney and 1987 first-round pick Randolph Keys, who had a six-year NBA career). ABA champion and 2-time ABA all-star Wendell Ladner had a prominent career at Southern Miss in the late 1960s as well, but perhaps the program's best player was Clarence Weatherspoon, who played here from 1988-1992 and would follow it up with a 14-year career in the NBA – Weatherspoon and Ladner have banners hanging from the rafters at Reed Green Coliseum. Another extra for the area outside the Coliseum being named NITChampsburg Field. There is also a small gathering area, intramural fields, and a few disc golf baskets located near this area, which is located on the west side of the coliseum. Reed Green Coliseum is also the largest indoor multi-purpose venue in Hattiesburg, so has played host to some top acts such as Willie Nelson, Heart, Jimmy Buffett, the Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, ZZ Top, Billy Joel, the Doobie Brothers, and WWE, all of whom have visited The Yurt over the years. The Southern Miss campus is also a nice campus to walk around before the game – giant oaks surround the beautiful Greek column buildings on campus. Some of my favorite sights on campus include the All-American Rose Garden and the giant eagle sculpture at the front entrance, or just walking or riding down the Long Leaf Trace. Lastly, the Hub at the center of campus is where Jimmy Buffett could be seen playing his guitar in between classes, as a student here in the late 1960s. Final Thoughts The Southern Miss basketball program may not be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about college basketball in the State of Mississippi – with a program that has only made three NCAA Tournament appearances, the Golden Eagles are often a forgotten program, and sometimes take a back seat to the Southern Miss baseball program in terms of fan support, even in Hattiesburg. However, with its ample access, laid back atmosphere, great views, and cheap ticket prices, coming to a Southern Miss basketball game makes for a great experience; the program is on the rise and the best it's been in over 20 years. I highly recommend coming here to any basketball fan in Mississippi – after all, the Golden Eagles do have an NIT Championship on their resume, and that’s something its counterparts up the road in Starkville and Oxford have yet to accomplish. Southern Mississippi to the top!

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Prince William Ice Center 5180 Dale Boulevard Woodbridge, VA 22193 George Mason Patriots hockey website Prince William Ice Center website Year Opened: 2011 Mason on the Ice The George Mason Patriots ice hockey team competes in Division I of the ACHA, the top level of intercollegiate club ice hockey in the United States. Play at this level is roughly comparable to Division III of the NCAA, but predominately features teams like Mason which do not sponsor the sport at a varsity level. The Patriots play their hockey at the Prince William Ice Center in Dale City Virginia, about a half hour drive from their campus in Fairfax. The original Prince William Ice Center opened in 1996 but collapsed in 2010 due to heavy snow. Thankfully, nobody was injured as they were able to get everyone out in time, but the building was completely destroyed. The current version opened in November 2011. In addition to Mason, several youth and adult teams of various levels play at the Prince William Ice Center, and many figure skaters and speed skaters train here as well. There are two rinks at the PWIC, an Olympic-sized one and an NHL-sized one. Mason always plays on the NHL-sized one. Food & Beverage 4 There is a snack bar located in the lobby of the Prince William Ice Center, to the left of the front doors to the building and directly across from the doors to the NHL-sized rink. There are some tables you can eat at and warm up during intermission, or you can bring in your food and eat it in the bleachers while watching the game. There is a good range of offerings here, including several all-day breakfast options, plus food like pizza, burgers, chicken tenders, and hot dogs which are more conducive to the time of day Mason usually plays. bottled water and a wide range of soft drinks and energy drinks are available, as are ice cream floats. Alcohol (beer, wine, and hard seltzer) is available to fans of legal drinking age, which is surprising for a municipal rink. Pries are reasonable - other than alcohol, everything is $7 or less, and most of it is much less. Atmosphere 3 Walking into the Prince William Ice Center will put you in a spacious lobby with display cases, banners, and trophies dedicated to the various teams who play here. The NHL rink is to the left of the entrance while the Olympic-sized rink is to the right. Mason always plays on the NHL rink, but if you want to confirm, you can ask at the front desk. Once inside the rink area, there are a few rows of bleachers on one side of the ice. Netting extends from the top of the glass to the ceiling, so you will be watching the game through it no matter how high you sit. That being said, all seats are pretty close to the action so you should have a good view. There is not much going on here besides the game itself. Music is played during breaks in the action, though it is not so loud as to become annoying. The PA announcer announces the starting lineups and will typically announce goal scorers, but often does not announce penalties. They do put the time remaining on the penalty up on the scoreboard, so you can at least see who it was called on and whether it was a major or a minor. Like most of the ACHA, this is a pretty basic experience in a standard municipal rink. Neighborhood 3 There is not much in the immediate vicinity of the Prince William Ice Center. There are a few fast food restaurants, gas stations, and the like, but this is a standard suburban area with not much going on. There are some shopping centers closer to I-95 which have some dining and other options, but nothing beyond the ordinary. The Dale City/Woodbridge area is a typical suburb of Washington, DC. Fans 3 By our estimation, there were between 100 and 200 fans in attendance when Stadium Journey visited the George Mason game, most of whom had some connection to the players on the ice. The crowd could be loud at times, while at other times it was quiet enough to hear the live stream commentator if you were sitting close by. This is a pretty standard crowd for ACHA, more than some people might expect for a team few know exists, but a far cry from what you'd see at an NCAA level. Since the Prince William ice Center is half an hour from Mason's campus with no transportation available, you will find few if any of their students in attendance. Access 2 The Prince William ice Center is located a few miles off I-95, and it is easy to get to, though we suggest using a GPS as it isn't clearly signed. Once you get in the lot, the ice arena is located behind the Boys' and Girls' club. Follow the road past that building to the Ice Center lot. Once you get there, you may have trouble finding a space as the lot is relatively small. Even if you get there early, you may struggle to find a space. This is a municipal rink, so other groups are usually using the ice before Mason's game. You may need to circle the lot a few times waiting for someone to leave. As mentioned, other groups often have the ice before George Mason does, so if you arrive early, you may have to wait for them to clear out before you go in the rink. This could be as late as 20-30 minutes before the game starts. That being said, you can eat something at the tables in the snack bar while you wait, or watch the TV which is often showing a hockey game or some other sporting event. Getting in and out of the stands can be difficult, as there is a small space between the bleachers and the entrance that may have a lot of people trying to crowd into it at once. It can get bad during intermission, but iis even worse before and after the game, as people will be coming for one event at the same time people are leaving the other. You shouldn't have too many issues, but it can be claustrophobic for a minute or two before you manage to get where you need to go. Restrooms are located in a walkway between the NHL and Olympic rinks, and you should have no issues here. There was water on the floor of the men's room when we went, but this is to be expected when people are trekking ice from the rink in there, and there is no reason to suspect it was anything but water. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to George Mason hockey games are $10 for students and $15 for adults (i.e. non-students.) This is on the high-end for ACHA hockey but certainly will not break the bank. Concessions are reasonably priced as well. Extras 3 Look for the banners in the rink and displays in the lobby honoring the myriad of teams and individual athletes that call or have called the Prince William Ice Center home. There is a large George Mason logo on one set of doors to the building, plus the team logo on center ice. Even though this is a municipal rink, it feels like the team's home, not just some rented place they play at. There is a merchandise table just inside the entrance to the link that sells GMU hockey gear. Final Thoughts While Prince William Ice Center is a municipal rink, don't let that fool you. A George Mason ACHA hockey game here is definitely a fun experience for college hockey fans in Northern Virginia. With no NCAA teams calling this area home, club hockey is basically the only way to check out the college level of the game. George Mason fans and college hockey fans in general will definitely want to make the trek down to Dale City to check out a Patriots game.