Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Old Trafford Sir Matt Busby Way Manchester, England M16 0RA United Kingdom Manchester United FC website Old Trafford website Year Opened: 1910 Capacity: 75,957 The Theatre of Dreams Originally featured 10/19/2019 Manchester United has not always been united. Before 1902, Manchester United was known as Newton Heath, and in 1902, following the club’s rescue as they faced bankruptcy the club was renamed Manchester United. At that time it had spent its first years at mediocre grounds, with dirt pitches not suitable for good football. After this the new chairman John Henry Davies decided in 1909 that something had to change, as the current Bank Street ground was not fit for a team that had enjoyed recent success, winning the First Division and FA Cup. The chairman donated funds for the construction of a new stadium and after a rigorous search, he found a patch of land adjacent to the Bridgewater Canal in Old Trafford. Designed by Scottish architect Archibald Leitch, who designed amongst others Anfield, Goodison Park, Craven Cottage, and Hampden Park, the ground was originally designed with a capacity of 100,000 spectators and featured seating in the south stand undercover, while the remaining three stands were left as terraces and uncovered. Building costs rose quickly and were getting out of hand, forcing the club to tune down the capacity of the stadium to approximately 80,000 spectators. Even at that time, United had already been touted as Moneybag United, due to the takeover by Davies and his big spending. Development was completed in late 1909. The stadium hosted its inaugural game on 19 February 1910, with United playing archrival Liverpool. Originally, a station was designed to be constructed in conjunction with the stadium, but due to problems with Davies, it took them till 1935 before Trafford Park station (later named Old Trafford football ground) was opened. In the early years, Old Trafford played host to several FA Cup Finals (during that time, Wembley Stadium was still in the planning and construction phase) and it saw its first (and definitely not last) international match, as England lost to Scotland on April 17, 1926. Wartime bombing In 1936, as part of a £35,000 refurbishment, an 80-yard long roof was added to the United Road stand (now the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand) for the first time, while roofs were added to the south corners in 1938. Upon the outbreak of the Second World War, Old Trafford was requisitioned by the military to be used as a depot. Football continued to be played at the stadium, but a German bombing raid on Trafford Park on 22 December 1940 damaged the stadium to the extent that a Christmas day fixture against Stockport County had to be switched to Stockport’s ground. Football resumed at Old Trafford on 8 March 1941, but another German raid on 11 March 1941 destroyed much of the stadium. It took quite some time, effort, and money to reopen the ground, which eventually took place in 1949. Though Old Trafford was reopened, albeit without cover, in 1949, United’s first game back at Old Trafford was played on 24 August 1949, as 41,748 spectators witnessed a 3–0 victory over Bolton Wanderers. In the 1950s, the refurbishing and extension of Old Trafford continued, as a roof was restored to the Main Stand by 1951 and, soon after, the three remaining stands were covered as floodlighting was installed during the same period. The inaugural floodlight match was between Bolton Wanderers and the home team, on March 25, 1957. The East Stand – the only remaining uncovered stand – was developed in the same style in 1973. With the first two stands converted by cantilevers, the club’s owners devised a long-term plan to do the same to the other two stands and convert the stadium into a bowl-like arena. Such a construction would increase the atmosphere at the ground by containing the crowd’s noise, while also focusing it onto the pitch, where the players would feel the full effects of a capacity crowd. After the completion of the roof, the replacement of the old manual scoreboard with an electronic one in the northeast corner took place. The southeast quadrant was then removed and replaced in 1985 with a seated section bringing the total seating capacity of the stadium to 25,686 (56,385 overall). The completion of the cantilever roof around three sides of the stadium allowed for the replacement of the old floodlight pylons, and the attachment of a row of floodlights around the inner rim of the roof in 1987. Due to all the refurbishments, the upgrades, and the new rules of 1991 (after the Hillsborough disaster and the subsequent Taylor Report), the capacity of Old Trafford was dropped to an all-time low of 44,000. Luckily, Sir Alex Ferguson took over as manager and this ignited years of success for the Mancunians. Several renovation plans were put into effect, with three stages. Firstly, the tiers of the Stretford End were increased. Secondly, the East stand got a second-tier and after that the West stand followed, raising the capacity to over 68,000 at that moment. Between 2005 and 2006 the latest extension took the capacity to the current level, adding second tiers to the northwest and northeast corners of the stadium. After all the renovations, the stadium is now at a whopping 75,635 capacity, making it the second biggest ground in England after Wembley Stadium. Every spot of the stadium has a splendid view of the field, which is unique, compared to other, more old fashioned stadiums such as Everton’s Goodison Park. The stadium is an icon in the English Premier League, drawing a lot of attention not only locally but especially from people all around the world. The nickname was coined by Sir Bobby Charlton and it is nicely used in marketing efforts (especially when Sharp was the team’s shirt sponsor). The Red Devils announced in August 2019 upgrades to the venerable grounds that will include an “atmosphere section” for up to 1,200 spectators in the Stretford End first tier that will also include upgraded food and beverage options and more kiosks. There also be upgrades to the VIP and several hospitality suites along with additional wheelchair and amenity suites across all four quadrants of the stadium. Food & Beverage 3 The food and beverage section in most parts of the stadium is rather standard. Please note that if you fancy an alcoholic beverage, you are only allowed to enjoy it on the concourse, with no view of the pitch. They cater to the need to watch the game with screens, but if you like watching the game on the telly, you’d be better off heading to a bar. Snack and drink combos are on offer as well. Be prepared to spend a fair amount of money if you want to quench your thirst and leave with a full belly. The selection of food is divided into hot and cold options, with a hot dog changing hands for a total of £5. United branded sausage rolls are £4.50 and a pie can be had for £4, with a choice of meat, steak, chicken or cheese, and onion. Cold options are grab bags such as Skittles or Maltesers, or Mars bars. Some chips are on offer as well, the former going for £3.50and the Mars bar for £1.50. Hefty prices. Drinks are on offer for £4.50 a beer or ale, £4.80 for wine, and sodas for £2.90. Prices are comparable to the ones at Arsenal for example. They do have offers: 3 items for £7.50 and 6 items for £13.T The hot items consist of meat and potato pies, United pie, chicken balti pie, cheese, and onion pasty, or a hot dog. The snack is usually a sweet such as crisps, Yorkie bar, or a Kit Kat and the drinks are of the Coca-Cola variety or a Heineken, John Smith’s, or Bulmer’s Atmosphere 5 Although the Old Trafford itself oozes atmosphere, with the large stands, unobstructed views, and closeness of the seats to the pitch, the people negate it quickly. When the singing starts, finally, (Glory Glory Man United for example) half the crowd is still quiet, which is a pity. If you visit the games against bitter rivals Liverpool or city neighbours Manchester City it will be more lively and intense. Old Trafford is a 75,000-seater stadium that was once hailed as the top stadium in English Football but has remained relatively unchanged the past decade. Those are due to several factors detailed earlier on this website . The grounds due provide comfort and a modern style that fans have come to expect for match day. The Theater of Dreams is made up of four stands that differ in ambiance and aesthetics. The Sir Alex Ferguson stand is three-tiers high and can accommodate up to 26,000 people; it is the largest of the four in the building. The Sir Bobby Charlton Stand is home to VIP guests and houses executive suites. The West End, also known as the Stretford End, is where 14,000 of the United’s most loyal fans reside during the match. The East End is uncovered and is where both away and disabled supporters are found during the game. The stand offers 13,000 seats and a plaque at Old Trafford honoring the victims of the Munich air disaster. Outside of the stadium includes statues and sculptures that add vibrancy to the complex. The United Trinity, a statue of Manchester United’s “holy trinity” of George Best, Denis Law, and Bobby Charlton. The Hublot clock tower is located in Old Trafford’s car park E1 and The statue of Sir Matt Busby overlooks the East Stand. Neighborhood 3 Old Trafford is not actually located in Manchester, but in neighbouring Salford to the northwest side of the city. All the best entertainment is located in Manchester city centre. The area around Old Trafford is part industrial, part residential. There’s a hotel, part-owned by former United legend Gary Neville, conveniently located next to the stadium and there are some bars and food shops, although the quality of the food is rather lacklustre. You can grab a pre-match drink in The Bishop Blaize or at The Trafford. Otherwise, the neighbourhood is one to forget quickly. Go to the city centre for the best experience in Manchester. The Tollgate is a 10-minute walk and is also considered an ultimate pre-match pub, bustling with fans and a friendly atmosphere. Sam Platt’s is 150 meters from the stadium and Old Trafford Supporters Club is £1 to enter but might be worth the small price for the atmosphere. Hotel Football is an upscale-themed hotel that overlooks Old Trafford and features 133 rooms, a restaurant, a 750-capacity basement bar, and a five-a-side football pitch on its roof. The £24 million hotel is owned by former Red Devil players and is planned to be a chain of football-themed hotels located near football grounds around the world. While in town, The National Football Museum is England’s national museum of football. It is located in Manchester city centre, and preserves conserve and display important collections of football memorabilia. City residents are allowed in for free but will cost £10 for all other adults and £5 for children 5-15. The Science and Industry Museum is devoted to the development of science, technology, and industry with an emphasis on the city’s achievements in these fields. Fans 4 Manchester has seen a huge spike in popularity, not only in England but very much across the world. Especially since the Sir Alex Ferguson era, the club has become a brand, much more than just a football club. While this has been extremely useful for business, it has not been very positive for the fans. Ticket prices have skyrocketed, and with the popularity of the ‘Man United’ brand, it has become more of a night out to go to Old Trafford. It means that the old core of fans, who grew up with the legend of the Busby Babes, have largely abandoned the club. Even more so, a big group of fans was so dissatisfied with the big money, they created a totally new club, FC United of Manchester, which is slowly rising through the ranks of English club football. The fans that go to the game now include many tourists. You will see a large crowd of people from Asia, Russia, mainland Europe, and other countries further afield. The involvement of the fans is therefore less than before. Prepare for selfie-sticks galore in the stands. Access 5 Getting to the ground is fairly easy. The opposing club supporters even walked to the ground from the city centre, which is still quite a hike. Otherwise, bus, metro, and train services stop close to the ground and once you are there, access is easy. If you take the train, stop at the Manchester United football ground stop. There is also the Trafford Bar, Exchange Quay, and Mediacity UK that are with a 10-minute walk to the stadium Buses 255, 256, and 263 stop close to the ground as well. There are separate spaces for people in wheelchairs, who enjoy quite some space, in contrast to the normal seats that are somewhat limited, especially if you are over 6’3. The train might be the best way to arrive at the game from Manchester Piccadilly train station. The Metrolink is a 10-minute walk to the grounds offering unlimited day passes for £5. If you are driving by car certain streets near the stadium are closed off and it is advised to arrive early, parking lots charge £10 per car. There is an Uber Ride Zone pickup point located in the E3 car park, by the East Stand of the stadium. You can also select a barge to arrive at Old Trafford as both the Manchester Ship Canal and Bridgewater Canal. Return on Investment 4 Adult tickets, if you are an official member of the club for a £20 annual fee, can range from listed a listed price of £36-£50, but could increase due to availability and depending on the opponent. As with many other major clubs in the EPL, plan well ahead since tickets against cross-town rival Manchester City will sell out quickly. Reduced price tickets are normally available for youths, 18 to 20-year-olds, and seniors (youths and seniors enjoy half price tickets). If you plan on arriving by car, some lots charge £10 per car. Old Trafford is among the best pitches in English Football and people from all over the world visit the stadium to watch a game. Just like with other iconic buildings, expect to play slighter higher for that adventure since it could be a once in a lifetime experience for visitors. A United v City clash would be quite a match to witness, but high in price. Other matches against non-rivals would help reduce the cost in price. Extras 5 At least one thing in Manchester is top of the bill: the extras. You have plenty to choose from. Start with a visit to the humongous official store, with a wide array of merchandise, ranging from shirts to toilet paper and other things you can’t even imagine. Then take a stadium tour, which will also take you to the United Museum, stacked with memorabilia from the storied franchise. You can even take photos with the silverware that’s on display. The magical stadium tour will take you to all the great places such as the dressing rooms and the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand. There are also ‘legends tours’ on offer, where tours are conducted by former United greats. The museum and stadium tours aren’t available on matchdays. Tickets are £18 and £12 for kids. A family of four will pay £54 in total. Around the stadium, you will find several memorials including one dedicated to Sir Matt Busby, a plaque to honor the victims of the Munich plane crash (including eight ‘Busby Babes,’ who tragically died in the disaster), and a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson, erected in 2012. Final Thoughts The inevitable deluge of money into the English Premier League has seen clubs chase profits, none more so than the Glazer family-owned Manchester United, who have proven quite adept at squeezing every penny out of the operation. Given the debt they incurred to afford the purchase of the club a decade ago, it is understandable from a business aspect but has affected the matchday experience significantly. However, it is still one of the iconic English grounds to visit and is a must-see venue in itself.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Orange Bowl Field at Harris Field Park 1034 NE 8th Street Homestead, FL 33030 Homestead Senior High Broncos website Orange Bowl Field at Harris Field Park website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 10,000 Homestead’s Premiere High School Football Field In the fall evenings, high school football takes center stage in Homestead, Florida. With several local schools that have been around for a long time alongside newer schools that have popped up, the bleachers fill up with fans. Students line the sidelines alongside old-timers to watch some good old-fashioned gridiron battles under the lights at Orange Bowl Field. In 2017, the facility committed to a massive renovation and rejuvenation of the obviously aging facility. These updates are currently halfway finished, complete with new paint on most of it, a brand-new scoreboard opposite the old falling apart one, and a beautiful new turf field. Food & Beverage 1 Looking for a bite to eat or a cool drink? Good luck. There is usually only one, or two at best, concessions stands open. Also, given that the students of the respective schools are those who line up, line jumping is all too common. If you want to go off-property, you can get a sub at Publix, a coffee at Starbucks, or something to eat at Pollo Tropical or Ruby Tuesday right across the street, but you’d have to visit them early to do that. Part of the to-be-completed renovations to Orange Bowl Field include an upgrade and overhaul of the existing concessions stands, so fans are hoping this will mean a better and wider variety of choices on game day. Atmosphere 4 Not many atmospheres are better than when Homestead High takes on South Dade Senior High in the annual Centennial Cup matchup at Orange Bowl Field. Rest assured there isn’t a single seat to be had, or even any space to stand for that matter. During other rivalry games, the students deck themselves out in body paint and bring homemade signs to show their support. A touchdown or quarterback sack are met with thunderous cheering that rocks the metal stands – this is as good as it gets in South Florida for high school sports. Neighborhood 3 Orange Bowl Field is in the parking lot of the local YMCA, situated next to the Doc DeMilly Rodeo Arena at the corner of US-1 and SW 312th St, two of the biggest roads in South Dade County. While one side of the field is bordered by a trailer park, the others have a large strip shopping center across the street. Adjacent to the west is the local library. While not exactly in the middle of a thriving metropolis, Orange Bowl Field can hold its own as being located in a relatively average neighborhood. There are hotels nearby, but nothing within immediate walking distance. As for something to eat, there are a lot of restaurants just down the street off Florida Turnpike Exit #2. Fans 4 Fans at Orange Bowl Field are among the most loyal you will find. They support their local high school teams no matter what their records. And if the teams is doing poorly, they will let the coaches know about it right away – the same goes for the calls made by the referees; nobody is safe from their wrath if the call is perceived to be a bad one. The fans also seem to know each and every player and coach on the field, having followed them from pee-wee football all the way to their college-bound time in the high school ranks. There are a ton of stories that can be swapped, making for an enjoyable time while taking in a game. Access 4 Orange Bowl Field is very easy to find, with less than a five-minute drive from the Florida Turnpike’s Exit #2 taking you right to the entrance of the park. Parking is plentiful as well, making getting in and out very easy for fans, and traffic is directed in and out by the local police during popular matchups, making going home smoother. Make sure you go to the bathroom before you enter the stadium, as the restrooms here leave a lot to be desired. Return on Investment 4 Sitting on metal bleachers without backs can be a little uncomfortable over time, especially if the game goes long. However, the atmosphere at Orange Bowl Field is well worth the cost, depending on the game you are attending. With ticket prices never rising higher than $10 for a game, you are pretty much only spending money on your gas to get here, so with little investment you get a pretty big gain if the game is a good one, or the matchup features a school you support. With the upgrades coming to the facility in the future, the restrooms will be upgraded and renovated, as will the landscaping around the stadium. Extras 2 Orange Bowl Field gets the occasional flyover, albeit not scheduled – the location of the facility is right along the flight line for planes heading in and out of Homestead Air Reserve Base, making an inadvertent flyover a possibility. There are also pee-wee football fields next to Orange Bowl Stadium, as well as basketball courts and little league baseball and softball fields that usually have games going on as well, making for a true family sports atmosphere when you arrive. Final Thoughts Orange Bowl Field is a pretty good high school football stadium compared to most in South Florida, and its location makes for easy access for fans of all the schools who make appearances here. Friday Night Lights could have easily been filmed here if it were based in South Florida, and the fans make it a great stadium in which to watch a game. Just make sure you bring your own food and drinks, as there is rarely anything to get without waiting in the long line at the stadium’s lone concessions stand.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Owings Mills Gymnasium 11005 Owings Mills Blvd Owings Mills, MD 21117 Stevenson Mustangs website Owings Mills Gymnasium website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 1,500 A History of Horses Stevenson University was originally known as Villa Julie College. It has always been a bit of a quirky place. Originally located in the Greenspring Valley of Baltimore County and its Stevenson neighborhood, the college was an all-girls school until 1972 and did not even offer bachelor degrees until 1984. It also was entirely non-residential. But eventually the college desired to add housing and more of just about everything, so a new campus was added in Owings Mills. This expansion dramatically increased the college’s offerings and student population. In 2008, they decided they needed a new identity and changed their name to Stevenson University. The Owings Mills campus just happened to be right next door to the old Baltimore Colts training facility. Stevenson acquired the building and the land and used it as the center of their athletic department. In 2006 it re-opened as the Caves Sports and Wellness Center. Some of the locker rooms and facilities are similar to the ones left behind by the Baltimore Ravens (the last professional football team to use the building), with necessary remodeling done. The training center was also home of the Canadian Football League champions, the Baltimore Stallions between 1994 and 1995. In 2010, Stevenson opened the Owings Mills Gymnasium, as they moved their basketball games from an antiquated gym on the old Villa Julie part of their campus. The university also added 3,500 seat Mustang Stadium next door in 2011. Stevenson University is still in the midst of expanding. They are trying to add land from the nearby Rosewood State Hospital, a now closed institution for people with developmental disabilities. Until then, the grounds of Rosewood is a fascinating ghost town type complex. And it is super creepy. Talks and negotiations for the proposed purchase of this land seems to be at a standstill, but it should eventually happen. It makes sense for it to eventually happen as Stevenson wants the land and there may be no other major suitors. Food & Beverage 2 A very small and basic food stand is located on the concourse. Don’t expect much. Hot dogs are $3, nachos $4 and soda $2. You might be better off leaving the facility and walking to one of the many options in the close vicinity of the university instead of spending much money here. Atmosphere 2 The gymnasium has a very basic single grandstand on each side of the court with an outside concourse between the two areas. All seats are bleacher type. The gymnasium can get loud because of its small size. Neighborhood 4 Owings Mills is a suburb of Baltimore, so there are plenty of shopping centers and restaurants in the area. A couple of well stocked places are within easy walking distance. The closest options for places to go for food are Edo Mae Sushi (10995 Owings Mills Blvd), Five Guys Burgers and Fries (10902 Boulevard Circle) and Courtney’s Bagel Cafe and Deli (11000 Owings Mills Blvd). The Owings Mills station of the Baltimore Metro subway system is located about a mile away from campus. Fans 4 The fan atmosphere will depend on the game. But unfortunately the students do not tend to come to many games. The school is largely a commuter school. Access 4 Owings Mills Boulevard has an exit off of nearby Interstate 795. The stadium is a pretty quick one mile trip from the highway. I worried about traffic in an area that is pretty busy even on normal days, but the traffic was no problem. The university has plenty of parking in the area and there are no issues here. Parking is free. Return on Investment 4 Games are fairly cheap to atend, with some games even being free. Extras 2 The former home of three professional football teams (Baltimore Colts, Baltimore Stallions and Baltimore Ravens), the Caves Sports and Wellness Center is worth a quick trip just outside the gym entrance. Try to remember 1984 and the pain and struggle that local football fans went through for years after the Colts moved away on a snowy night from this very location. Next to Mustang Stadium is a statue of a mustang, the university’s mascot. This is a good meet up spot and photo opportunity. Inside the Owings Mills Gymnasium concourse is a very nicely detailed Stevenson University Athletic Hall of Fame. Final Thoughts Stevenson has a nice, fairly new basketball facility that is easy to get to and cheap to attend. If you are in the area, this would be a venue we could easily recommend.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey, Augsburg University, & Stacy Van Egterm Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Parade Stadium 400 Kenwood Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55403 Augsburg University website Parade Stadium website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 500 A Ballpark with A View Parade Stadium is the home to the Augsburg University baseball club and perhaps offers one of the best views not only in the Twin Cities but in all of Minnesota. The ballpark is located in the Kenwood neighborhood of Minneapolis and adjacent to the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Augsburg has used Parade Stadium for baseball since at least 1955. It appears that 1959 was the first season that most of its home games were played at the stadium; before that year, the Auggies played most of their home games at Northeast Park, with a game or two at Parade. The diamond sits on the grounds of the original Parade Stadium, a 16,560-capacity football stadium that was built with $600,000 in bonds over two years and opened in 1951. It was Minneapolis’s first public football stadium and hosted high school, amateur, collegiate, and professional football games. The NFL preseason games were an annual event that netted huge profits for the stadium from 1951 to 1955, including 20,000 that witnessed Green Bay v. San Francisco during the stadium’s first season. The stadium hosted around 50 games a year and would also be the home during the summertime Aquatennial festivals, midget car racing, circuses, and major concerts that came through the Twin Cities. However, due to complaints of noise and traffic by nearby residents and the cost of maintaining the structure, it needed $250,000 in repairs at one point, the stadium was down to only five events in 1986. With the sculpture park debuting in 1988 and a need to expand it, the decision was made to tear down Parade Stadium in 1990. The price tag was one million dollars for the demolition of the stadium and relocation of the softball field. Today, a simple baseball stadium remains with a million-dollar view of the Minneapolis skyline. Food & Beverage 0 The ballpark does not offer food or drinks during baseball games. Fans are recommended to bring in their concession items. On a nice day with the clear blue skies above and the city skyline in the distance, something from home or a restaurant should suffice. Atmosphere 3 Depending on the weather, the atmosphere is pleasantly charming with gorgeous views of the city skyline and plenty of room to stretch your feet. The majority of home games are played during the summer months at Parade Stadium with around 12 dates per season. The ballpark is very basic and can be classified as a glorified high school stadium, but the views and the adjacent sculpture park are worth the price of admission. The stadium’s structure is quite meager and is slightly higher than a glorified high school field, but its location and views beyond the outfield walls give the place distinction not found in too many other stadiums in the country. Sure, there are skyline views, but based on the ballpark’s structure, it gets swallowed up by the tall skyscrapers and sculpture gardens next door. The layout of the stadium is a simple press box and aluminum bleachers behind the backstop with two sections of aluminum bleachers down the first and third baselines. There is no cover protection. There is nothing fancy about Parade Stadium, but it is an interesting experience given its proximity to the sculpture gardens and the views of the Minneapolis skyline. Neighborhood 5 Parade Stadium is adjacent to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden , one of the must-see destinations in town. Numerous sculptures include Spoonbridge and Cherry, Hahn/Cock, and Love. The park also includes the Walker Art Center and Parade Ice Garden. A few restaurants nearby include Cafe & Bar Lurcat (American cuisine), 4 Bells (Lowcountry-inspired), and Sisyphus Brewing. Downtown Minneapolis is a collection of funky streets, numerous skyways above the streets, and up-and-coming neighborhoods that all seem to converge at Target Center and the neighboring Target Field . A popular place across the street before games is Kieran Irish Pub, the outside patio is a great place to grab a drink if you arrive a tad early before the game. The Depot Tavern is an old bus station turned into a place for cocktails and beers, and Seven Steakhouse Sushi offers rooftop seating and views before or after the game. The funky Hennepin Avenue has a collection of local establishments after the game for drinks and music, but the up-and-coming Warehouse District is just a few blocks away featuring casual seafood restaurant Smack Shack and craft breweries Fulton Brewing Taproom and Inbound BrewCo. Fans 3 The crowd attendance is typical for Midwestern Division III baseball from around 100 to 200. Many of the people in attendance are friends and family of the players out on the field. The focus is on the game on the field and many of the sounds are from the players on the diamond. When it comes to a pure baseball atmosphere, Parade Stadium has what you’re looking for. Access 3 Parade Stadium is easily accessible by car and once inside the simple layout is perfect for an afternoon or an evening of baseball. There is also mass transit that offers bus stops within a 3 to 5-minute walk from the stadium. There is also a parking lot that is shared with the sculpture gardens that costs $4. Return on Investment 4 There is no admission charge for baseball games, but it does cost $4 to park in the adjacent lot via parking meters. A small price to pay for beautiful views and beautiful sculptures to view before or after the game. Extras 2 Parade Stadium offers a stunning view of the Minneapolis skyline, perhaps the best views in the city–or a close second behind Target Field. The Minneapolis Sculpture Gardens are one of the city’s must-see destinations that is adjacent to the baseball stadium. Final Thoughts Parade Stadium is by no means a perfect stadium and is quite simple in design and atmosphere. However, its location and skyline views of the city make it a hidden gem when visiting the Twin Cities. ------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel .

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Paul Walsh Field 230 Hathaway Blvd New Bedford, MA 02740 Year Opened: 1910 Capacity: 2,000 Down By the Bay Dr. Paul Walsh Field, originally named Sargent Field, is located on the campus of New Bedford High School. It has been the home of the New Bedford Bay Sox since their inception in 2009. The field, which is part of a larger athletic complex, serves as home to New Bedford’s high school and American Legion teams in addition to the Bay Sox. Dr. Walsh was a long-time member of the city’s school board and was a strong supporter of the school’s athletic department. He spearheaded many committees that developed and expanded the facility. The Bay Sox franchise has played in the New England Collegiate Baseball League since 1997, starting out as the Torrington Twisters. While in Torrington, the team made the league championship series four times, losing each time. Now in their tenth season in the Whaling City, the Bay Sox have made the playoffs four times, losing in the opening round on three occasions. Food & Beverage 2 The Bay Sox run a concession stand in the first floor of the press box building directly behind home plate. The menu has been downgraded in recent seasons, but still offers value, as no item is priced over four dollars. All your ballpark basics can be found here including hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza slices and french fries. Snacks, including peanuts, sunflower seeds, popcorn and assorted candy and ice cream are also available. Pepsi products are featured at Walsh Field. No alcohol is sold at this facility. There is a souvenir stand on the concourse offering a nice variety of Bay Sox t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia. Atmosphere 2 The Bay Sox have put a lot of effort into improving their game day experience and the results have been positive overall. The team has increased its presence in the community, and as a result has attracted more sponsorship from local businesses. The team has beefed up their promotional schedule, offering deals and giveaways for most home dates. The team has also attempted to make the in-game experience livelier. Music blares over the PA system between innings and batters, and the team involves the younger fans in attendance with some between innings contests. The mascot, a whale named Slamu, roams the crowd throughout the game, posing for pictures and engaging fans in some good-natured shenanigans. As is the case at most summer collegiate games, the team runs raffles for items including Red Sox tickets, team card sets, as well as the standard 50/50 raffle. The area behind home plate has become a focal point for activity, including raffles and giveaways from local sponsors, a fast pitch cage, and on some nights, a dunk tank. Neighborhood 2 Walsh Field is located in a residential area, without a whole lot of businesses or attractions in the immediate area. Visiting fans can find a few eateries on nearby Route 6, but to get the best bang for your buck while visiting New Bedford, head downtown, a few short miles away from the ballpark. New Bedford is another New England city which has suffered through some hard times and is struggling to rebuild both their infrastructure and their reputation. Thanks to a great deal of investment from civic leaders and local businesses, downtown New Bedford has a great National Historic Park, a number of museums, shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. It’s a nice place to visit, and improving all the time. Still, New Bedford isn’t really considered to be a destination city, especially with popular tourist spots such as Cape Cod, Newport and Providence all close by. New Bedford is not the dangerous wasteland it is sometimes made out to be. Check it out, you will be pleasantly surprised. Fans 2 The Bay Sox have consistently averaged about 500 fans per game over the past few seasons. This ranks the team in the middle of the NECBL attendance standings. Many of the fans that show up are regulars, and are very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about their Bay Sox. You are also very likely to find many children running around the vast expanses around the ball field, playing catch or chasing foul balls around. Kids who shag down foul balls can cash in three balls for a Bay Sox t-shirt. Access 3 Walsh Field is located on the campus of New Bedford High School in the city’s North End. Take exit 13 off of Interstate 195 (Route 140 South) to the traffic light located at the intersection with Route 6. Follow Route 6 to Rockdale Ave, turn left, and then bear right onto Hathaway Boulevard. The athletic fields of New Bedford High School will be on your right. There is ample parking available on the streets surrounding Walsh Field, but you will be better served to park in the large lot across the street at the high school, as foul balls leave the facility regularly. Once inside the park, there is a large paved area behind home plate where the souvenir stand, a few games for the kids, and the concession stand are located. On either baseline is a large raised grandstand high enough to see over the fences that surround the field. Unfortunately, netting obstructs the view from all seats. Fans bringing their own chairs can camp out behind home plate or on grassy areas down either line. With the small crowds present at Walsh Field, spreading out is not an issue. There are rest rooms in a small building down the right field line. Fans looking to use public transportation to a Bay Sox game will be disappointed to learn that SRTA’s #2 bus only stops at New Bedford High School while school is in session. Driving is the best way to get to Walsh Field, as the closest bus stop is several blocks away. Return on Investment 4 Admission to a Bay Sox game is $5 for adults, with tickets for children and seniors discounted by two dollars. Children under 6 years old are admitted free of charge. Showing a Stop and Shop card at the gate can save you an additional dollar. All seating is sold as general admission. In addition, the tickets come with coupons to a local restaurants and stores on the back, making it possible to get back more money in coupons than you spent on the ticket. There is no charge for parking in the high school’s lot across the street from the ball field, and there is ample free parking on the nearby streets as well. On-street parking, while convenient, is not recommended, as your car may be hit by one of the many foul balls that leave Paul Walsh Field. With inexpensive concession prices, a night out at a Bay Sox game is an affordable alternative to many other activities in the area. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the improvements in the game day atmosphere here in New Bedford. Increased involvement with the community has resulted in more sponsorship, an enriched promotional schedule, and increased attendance. The Bay Sox seem to be growing roots in the New Bedford and are carving out their own niche in the community. Final Thoughts While not boasting the most dynamic facility in the area, New Bedford is not necessarily a bad place to see a game. A Bay Sox game is very affordable, and the baseball being played is of a high level. Many players have gone on from the NECBL to professional and major league careers. New Bedford’s biggest drawback may be simply its location. The Bay Sox are surrounded on the east by the Cape Cod League, with the Wareham Gatemen located just 17 miles away; on the west by the Newport Gulls , who have become the flagship franchise of the NECBL and are consistently ranked as one of the top 10 summer college teams in the country; and to the north by the Future League’s Brockton Rox , who play in a former professional ballpark. Anything the Bay Sox do in undersized and plain Walsh Field simply pales in comparison. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Peden Stadium Richland Ave & S Green Dr Athens, OH 45701 Ohio Bobcats website Peden Stadium website Year Opened: 1929 Capacity: 24,000 The Crown Jewel of the Mid-American Conference On campus, it is referred to as “The Crown Jewel of the Mid-American Conference.” Peden Stadium, home of the Ohio Bobcats, brings a vast history to the relatively young conference. Used to host the football team since 1929, Peden Stadium is named after legendary Ohio coach Don Peden. Whether or not the claims of greatness by those associated with Ohio are accurate remains in question, however, Ohio puts together a great product in a great conference in a truly historic stadium. The Ohio program has been in operation since 1894 and is an original member of the MAC since its creation in 1946. Ohio claims eleven conference titles, including 8 from the Buckeye Athletic Conference in the thirties and MAC Championships in 1953, 1960, 1963, 1967, and 1968. The Bobcats also have a 2-7 record in Bowl games with victories in 2011 and 2012. Keep in mind that a select few teams from the MAC make it to a Bowl game at all. Under the guidance of Coach Frank Solich, the Bobcats have been a consistent contender in the conference. A trip to Peden Stadium is a trip back in time as the stadium is the oldest in the conference and although there are some challenges and some areas in which improvements can be made, Peden Stadium offers a solid venue for a great afternoon of football. Food & Beverage 3 Concession options at Peden Stadium are fairly limited, but there are a couple of options that may interest you. There are a few permanent concession stands under the east and west grandstands that offer some basic options. Hot dogs, kielbasa, bratwurst, popcorn, caramel corn, pizza, nachos, and peanuts are all available. At the Grille Stand, they have a couple of other interesting items including chicken sandwiches, gyros, cheeseburgers, and cheesesteaks. The other interesting choices are found at the Hungry Cat food truck where brisket and verde chicken are featured with either sandwiches, nachos, or platters. Soft drinks are Pepsi products and can be found in either bottles or fountain variety. Gatorade, water, and frozen lemonade are also available. Alcohol is not sold in Peden Stadium. Atmosphere 4 Peden Stadium has a pretty good atmosphere but has some spots that could use some improvements. Ohio University has a beautiful campus with some classic architecture that features a lot of red brick and arches. Peden Stadium follows suit with its architecture. Built-in 1929, Peden Stadium offers classic architecture with red brick all over the exterior with concrete arches throughout. Those arches often feature banners, which aids in the game day experience. The north side of the exterior also features the bronze Bobcat statue that fans all make a pilgrimage to and get that perfect photo with. Peden Stadium is also a historical site and the marker is right by the bronze Bobcat. Inside the stadium, fans will be greeted with some pretty narrow concourses and an urge to get to the outer walkway of the stadium, which travels three-quarters of the stadium. The artificial turf field is oriented north and south with the main grandstands on the east and west. Curved bleachers in the northeast and northwest corners of the stadium make it clear that an attempt to increase the capacity of the stadium has been made. The stadium flags are found at the north end of the stadium and the scoreboard with video board is found at the south end. The video board is significantly dated and in need of replacement. The seating area is separated from the playing field by a horseshoe of red brick. On the northeast corner of this wall, fans will find the nine signs signifying the Bowl appearances by the Bobcats. These include the 1962 Sun Bowl, 1968 Tangerine Bowl, 2007 GMAC Bowl, 2009 Little Caesars Bowl, 2010 New Orleans Bowl, 2011 Potato Bowl, and 2012 Independence Bowl. The 2011 and 2012 bowl appearances mark the only bowl victories for the Bobcats. On the opposite side of the field, Ohio curiously features three signs recognizing the 2006, 2009, and 2011 MAC East champions, years that the Bobcats did not win the Conference. The Bobcats should find a way to mark their five MAC Championships and six Buckeye Conference Championships. Seating in Peden Stadium is not overly comfortable, which is pretty much par for college football. The vast majority of the stadium seating is aluminum benches without backs. If you need a back to your bench, then you will need to find a seat in one of the premium seating areas like the club seats. The west grandstand has the best view of the logo at the 50-yard line. The east grandstand is pretty much for the students and band and the northeast bleachers are for the family zone. The game day experience at Peden Stadium is similar to many other college experiences. On a Bobcat score the cannon in the northwest corner of the stadium is fired and the cheerleaders do pushups in the end zone. Unfortunately for the cheerleaders, the game that was reviewed saw the Bobcats score 54. The team is led onto the field by the Bobcat mascot Rufus (who rides a motorcycle around the field), and then the traditional flags spelling out Ohio and the unique flag of Ohio (except done in Ohio Bobcat colors) follow. The Ohio University Marching 110 is the band and they are fantastic. Neighborhood 3 Athens, Ohio is pretty much a college town. Peden Stadium is located at the south end of the Ohio campus. There are a couple of interesting places to grab something to eat before or after the game, however, you are going to have to head off campus. If you head just north of campus, on the north side of W Union St, you will find Jackie O’s Pub and Brewery between S Court and S Congress. There are several other spots if you continue north on Court. You may also want to consider the Red Brick Sports Pub on N Court St. Athens is located due east of Cincinnati and southeast of Columbus. Being a college town, there are not a ton of other options for things to do while in Athens. That being said, Ohio has a pretty solid basketball program with a strong fan base. Ohio plays basketball at the Convocation Center. There are also a whole host of Bobcat athletic teams, hosted by the university. If you are planning on staying in Athens, there are a couple of options for accommodations that you may be interested in. The Ohio University Inn and Conference Center is conveniently located on campus. Otherwise, you may want to try the Baymont Inn and Suites or Holiday Inn Express, both conveniently located off Highway 33, northeast of campus. Fans 4 The Ohio Bobcats have a decent following. The program has been pretty strong under coach Frank Solich. As a result, they have been rewarded with a pretty solid attendance. In 2014 the Bobcats averaged over 20,500 fans per game. In 2015 the Bobcats averaged over 21,300 at the time of writing, they were averaging over 22,000 fans per game. Although these may not be numbers that are over the top compared to some of the bloated numbers that other college football programs will draw, the fact remains that the Bobcats draw close to the capacity of Peden Stadium. Compared to other programs in the MAC, the Bobcats are typically at the top of the conference with regard to average attendance. The fans in the stands are polite, intelligent, and supportive of the Bobcats. One of the curious aspects of the game that was being reviewed was how the students participated. The student section named the O-Zone, located in the east grandstand, was full. After the band played at halftime, the students disappeared for the second half and made the stadium almost half-empty. The game played was also close throughout and not a blowout at all. Access 3 The age of Peden Stadium gets in the way of patron comfort and access. Peden Stadium is located at the south end of the Ohio University Campus, pretty much in the center of Athens, just north of the Hocking River. The campus is located very close to Highway 50 and Highway 33, so getting into town will not be too difficult. Traveling through campus to find parking might be a bit more of a challenge. As with most programs, season ticket holders have most of the best parking spots pre-reserved. There are several other locations on campus to park, however, it may be a bit of a maze-like drive to find one. There are several bus stops that are near Peden Stadium and go through campus. Probably the closest stop is on Richland Ave, just west of the stadium. Check out the Athens Transit website for maps, schedules, and fares. The north tower is where you would want to head for the ticket windows, including will-call. There are several former ticket windows around the stadium that are very small but not used. Do not get frustrated with these non-functioning windows. Getting around Peden Stadium is where it can get challenging. Under the grandstands, the concourses are very small and cramped. If possible, it is easiest to travel around the stadium on the outer walkway. The washrooms in Peden Stadium are definitely in need of some sort of upgrade as they are ancient. Return on Investment 4 Ohio football is a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Tickets will typically run between $20 and $40. As with most programs, tickets for conference rivals are more expensive. Concession prices are decent and parking can be found for around $10. The return for the fans is good also with MACtion being some of the most underrated football in the entire country. On the day of this review, the Bobcats would go into triple overtime. A better return for the dollar would be gained with some improvements to the stadium. Extras 2 An extra mark for the North Tower, which offers some modern points necessary for competing in NCAA football. An extra mark for Ohio’s keeping of their classic, original stadium and incorporating new parts to it. Final Thoughts Whether or not Peden Stadium is “the crown jewel of the Mid-America Conference” is going to be up to the fan to figure out. The facts are that Ohio has a historic stadium that offers a lot to the football experience. Peden Stadium could also benefit from some stadium upgrades to improve the experience for fans. The Ohio University Marching 110 also adds to the game day experience in a way that may not be found with other schools in the conference. At the end of the day, a trip to Athens to figure out if their claims are true is worth it. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram .

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Investors Group Field 315 Chencellor Matheson Rd Winnipeg, MB R3T 1Z2 Canada Winnipeg Blue Bombers website Investors Group Field website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 33,500 The Loudest Fans in the CFL Editor's Note: In January 2024 the Winnipeg Football Club agreed to a 10-year stadium naming rights deal with Princess Auto. The name of the Stadium was changed to "Princess Auto Stadium" in April 2024. This review, written in 2018, refers to the stadium by its previous name, Investors Group Field. Investors Group Field in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada) is home to the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Colloquially known as “Home of the CFL’s Loudest Fans” (this moniker is proudly on display inside the stadium), the facility opened in 2013, and has a capacity of just over 33,000, but can be expanded to hold 40,000 fans. Located on the University of Manitoba’s campus, Investors Group Field is also used by the school’s football team for home games, as well as by the Winnipeg Rifles of the CJFL, which is a national amateur Canadian football league, from which some players “graduate” into the CFL after proving their skills. Food & Beverage 5 Investors Group Field has everything you could expect in terms of food and drink at a sports stadium. There are plenty of concessions stands behind the seats on each sideline, as well as additional options on the plazas behind each end zone. Food options at Investors Group Field include chicken tenders (regular or spicy), vegetarian perogies, turkey wings, chicken and waffle sandwiches, fried fish, multiple types of hot dogs, chili, butter chicken and rice bowls, several types of burgers (including turkey and chorizo), falafel, shawarma, salads, and pizza, plus all manner of snacks such as popcorn, peanuts, nachos, sunflower seeds, soft pretzels, samosas, vegetarian spring rolls, fries, chips, packaged candy, donuts, cotton candy, and even veggies with dip. And of course, what Canadian sporting event would be complete without poutine on the menu? If you are visiting from out of country, this is definitely a dish you should try at least once, but even if you are a local, you can’t help but be impressed by the sheer variety of items available at Investors Group Field, with options available to suit any budget. Individual items start at $4 and run all the way up to $13, with combos starting at $12. Drink options are not quite as numerous, but there is plenty to get you by for a couple of hours. Selections include bottled or fountain soda, bottled water, and coffee or hot chocolate ($2 to $9 for non-alcoholic drinks), as well as beer, wine, and plenty of liquor and mixed drinks – beer starts at $7, liquor starts at $8, wine is $9, and mixed drinks are $16. Atmosphere 5 Investors Group Field is a great place to take in a football game – the fans are loud, thanks in part to the cantilevered roofs over both sidelines, and all the seats are chair backs, so you can sit in comfort and style. In addition, the Blue Bomber staff brings in plenty of entertainment to keep fans engaged during breaks in the action. First up are Buzz and Boomer, the two bird mascots decked out in Winnipeg jerseys and helmets, who keep fans entertained along the sidelines. Next is Captain Blue, the Blue Bomber pilot who drives his biplane onto the field before the game and after every Bombers score. You will also hear cannon blasts throughout the game, courtesy of the silvery-blue cannon above the end zone, which is fired after every Winnipeg score. And in addition, some lucky fans are treated to free t-shirts, fired from a Gatling-style gun sponsored by Boston Pizza. The Winnipeg Blue Bomber players even get into the act, running and jumping into the end zone stands when Winnipeg scores, for high fives and pats on the back from fans in the front row. And then of course you have the ubiquitous fan contests, in this case weight lifting competitions and fans racing each other while inside giant inflatable hamster wheels. The crowd noise is even loud when the stadium is only half full – the decibel level inside Investors Group Field was once measured at the max level of 108. Neighborhood 4 Winnipeg is a large, sprawling town with plenty of restaurants, hotels, and things to do if you are in town for the day or for the weekend. Being on the University of Manitoba’s campus means there isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of Investors Group Field except parking lots and campus buildings, but there are plenty of restaurant and lodging options within a few minutes’ drive. And if you are coming in from out of town, there are lots of hotels and restaurants near the Winnipeg airport, about 10 km north of the stadium. If you have time before or after the game, Fort Whyte Alive is a great place to visit in Winnipeg – not far from Investors Group Field, the keynote attraction at Fort Whyte is the Bison Safari on Wednesdays thru Saturdays at 1:30 or 2:30 pm, where you can take a shuttle ride right up to within a few feet of the magnificent animals (Fort Whyte has a population of between 30 and 35 bison on site). There is also a small Interpretive Center on site, which features tons of activities for the kids, and if outdoor activities are your thing, there are several hiking and biking trails on the property, as well as activities on the water such as sailing. Another popular attraction in Winnipeg is touring the National Mint, where coins from around the world are made. The mint has daily tours every half hour starting at 9 am – reservations are not required but are helpful if you want to schedule a specific time. Note that the tours are better on weekdays, however, since the productions lines are turned off on weekends, but you can still tour the facility on weekends if you choose (the tour is exactly the same, except that the machines are off and the line workers are not there). Fans 4 Winnipeg Blue Bombers fans get credit for being as loud as they are, but sadly the facility does not always sell out – at a typical game you might only see half to two-thirds of the seats filled. On the plus side, however, a high percentage of fans are decked out in team gear, so you will definitely feel right at home if you choose to show up in your Bombers gear. Access 4 It is easy enough to get to Investors Group Field, and you can see its distinctive outline from kilometers away – the highways around Winnipeg (and much of Canada) are actually really well done, with lots of six and eight-lane divided roads laid out to speed the traffic flow; credit goes to the local city planners, it is obvious they planned ahead when building the streets here. Unfortunately the parking situation at Investors Group Field leaves a little to be desired – as expected, the stadium being on campus means there are lots of parking restrictions, and not many side streets too park along in the vicinity. Cash parking is available in the Gold and Blue lots for $20 on the east side of the stadium (or you can park in the Black value lot for $10 further away to the east), but for the closer in lots will need a pass. However, once you get inside the stadium it is really easy to move around – there are giant plazas behind each end zone you can use to get from side to side, so you can enter at any gate and still find your seat with ease. There are also plenty of bathrooms inside Investors Group Field to accommodate the size of the crowd, although as with most sports venues you may face lines at the concessions during peak periods like halftime. Return on Investment 4 Single game ticket prices for Winnipeg Blue Bombers games start at about $32 CAD, which is in line with professional sports throughout Canada, and is slightly lower than pro football games in the US. Parking is reasonable at $20, and if you are careful with your spending, you can do okay at the concessions as well. That said, with a large group you may end up spending a bit more than you would like (assuming you are picking up the whole tab), but the cost per person at Investors Group Field is a pretty good value for professional football. Extras 5 How many sports venues can boast three mascots? A lot of stadiums feature twin mascots like Buzz and Boomer, but adding Captain Blue and his biplane to the mix is really above and beyond. Furthermore, having the players themselves interact with fans by jumping into the stands when the home team scores really takes Investors Group Field to a whole new level. And don’t forget the cannon either, blue in color for the Bombers and fired after every score – again, while lots of sports venues might have one or two of these elements, very few have all three. Being the loudest stadium in the CFL is also a plus, and the staff really deserves credit for having so much fan interaction in terms of contests and giveaways. Final Thoughts CFL games are a lot of fun, thanks in part to having only 3 downs instead of 4, giving every snap the potential to turn into a big play. So if you have never been to a CFL game, or if you have but have never seen one in Winnipeg, I would encourage you to check out Investors Group Field – you won’t be disappointed.

Photo by Rik Sharma, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 RCDE Stadium Av. Baix Llobregat, 100 Barcelona, Spain 08940 RCD Espanyol website RCDE Stadium website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 40,500 A Shiny New Home for the Marvelous Minority Espanyol have always been FC Barcelona’s rivals, since being formed in 1900. In Franco’s era, the Catalan capital’s second side were viewed as being more in league with him than the Blaugrana were. To this day, Spain flags are waved in the stadium. The ground itself is new, with Espanyol starting to play there in the 2009-10 season onwards. Their previous homes were, until 1997 Estadi de Sarria, and then in the Lluis Companys Olympic stadium at Montjuic between that year and 2009. They see themselves as the ‘marvelous minority,’ in the face of Barcelona’s power. Food & Beverage 3 The concession lines are often long, but the service is friendly. You have to queue up, order and pay, before shuffling along to another window to pick up your order. The food options are fairly standard for Spanish venues. As well as a selection of snacks, like popcorn, crisps, sweets and chocolate, there are some sandwiches. These are in the traditional “bocadillo” form, i.e. crusty bread with a thick filling. The options are cheese and bacon, Spanish omelette and ham. There is also a hot dog on offer, for €3.50. The sandwiches vary between €4 – €4.50. Coca-Cola is offered, along with Coke Zero, orange and lemon Fantas. Coffee and hot chocolate are available, as is chocolate milk and water. The latter is €2, while the other cold drinks are €3.50. Hot drinks are around €2. The hot chocolate is nice on a cold day – it’s thicker than you might expect. Atmosphere 4 The stadium is rarely, if ever, full. However, considering the empty seats, the fans generate a decent atmosphere. Given the stadium is relatively new, as you would expect it has good sight lines in almost all places. There are two electronic scoreboards which usually show the teams and who has been booked or not. There is not usually any special entertainment on offer. Because the stadium has gaps at the top, plenty of wind gets in. That means warm days can become cool in Cornella, and cold days can be freezing. Dress with warmer clothes than you think you may need. All areas are covered. Neighborhood 4 Cornella is a 20-minute metro ride away from Barcelona’s city centre. Fans are recommended to stay there, rather than in the immediate vicinity of the ground, because of the huge number of tourist options. However the actual area around the stadium is not too bad either, especially with the Splau shopping centre open right next to the ground. In the Splau shopping complex there are plenty of options, including La Tagliatella, for pasta and pizza, Tommy Mel’s for burgers and American cuisine, and Udon for Japanese. The latter is a good bet, with generous portions. There are also other options, including Rodilla sandwich shop, BBQ Ribs, which does what it says on the tin, and a Mexican joint called Panchito. There is a cinema in the shopping centre, but not a whole lot else to do around Cornella. Instead, in Barcelona you can visit the beach, the Sagrada Familia cathedral and plenty of more tourist activities. The best place to stay would be in Barcelona itself, with access to the blue metro line if you want to get to Cornella quickly. Around the neighbourhood of Sants would be an ideal spot. Fans 3 Espanyol fans are passionate, even if that passion is mainly directed at hating Barcelona. Visiting during a Catalan derby would give you a good look at the bile that game produces. The stadium is usually half-full, with around 20,000 people in attendance. That rises steeply for the visit of big sides, like Barcelona and Real Madrid. In the 21st minute of every game the fans clap, for the memory of Dani Jarque. He was a former captain of the club, who died August 2009 of a heart defect. The 21st minute is chosen because it was his shirt number. There are two sections of fervent support, one behind each of the goals. The ‘ultras,’ if you will, though there is rarely any trouble. Access 4 The stadium is fairly easy to navigate and access from all sides. Inside movement is easy. The best way to get to the stadium is on the metro from Barcelona, L5 – the blue one. There is a 15 minute walk to the stadium after that – just follow the fans. However, you can also get the trains from Plaza Catalunya or Sants, which go closer still. Return on Investment 3 Espanyol don’t have any great players and most visitors to Barcelona don’t bother with Cornella. However, for football fans who want to see how the other half lives, it’s worth a trip. Arriving at the stadium is cheap, with a metro or train ticket costing a maximum of €2.50. Snacks at the game are averagely priced for Spain, with a sandwich and a drink setting you back around €7.50. Actual tickets are likely to set you back between €40 and €75, depending if you sit behind the goal or along one of the sides, respectively. . Extras 4 You can have a tour guide show you around Espanyol’s stadium, which is both cheaper and less busy than the equivalent at Camp Nou. As well as a short 3D film about the club’s history you get the usual trips around the dressing room, the tunnel and more.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Raider Dome 9120 S 300 W. Poneto, IN 46781 Southern Wells HS Raiders website Raider Dome website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 2,223 Welcome to The Raider Dome The Raider Dome opened in 1967 and is home to the Southern Wells Jr./Sr. High School basketball program. The dome debuted the same year as the high school after the four remaining southern township schools of Southern Wells country agreed to consolidate for the 1966/1967 school year. Those four last schools of Chester Center, Jackson Center, Liberty Center, and Petroleum Center have banners hanging in the gymnasium as a reminder to all who walk the concourse of this magnificent basketball arena. The small gym holds a cozy 2,223 fans and is situated between State Road 218 and 18. It is indeed a nice little find. The domed ceiling dominates the entire building with multiple LED lights and its dark brown color. The 50-plus-year-old facility is in great shape and looks somewhat more modern than its actual age. The basketball nets used to hang from the ceiling but it was discovered several years ago that it was harming the roof and soon replaced. During practice roll away nets have to be brought into the gym. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand outside the gymnasium in the main lobby with prices that are much cheaper compared to other high school gyms. The hot dogs are just a buck and cost a dollar more if you want to add cheese or chili, pretzels, popcorn sells, and nachos. Bottled soda is available and there are even ice cream sundaes offered in the main concourse by the track and field team for $3 that support their program at every home game. Atmosphere 3 There is a lot to like about the Raider Dome beginning with the moment you walk through the main entrance. The ceiling design is majestic and dominates the interior with multiple LED lights. The white walls are decorated nicely with murals, red and white championship banners, and blue tiling to add a little pop to the place. There are two murals featuring a display of basketball players while the one on the opposite side of the gym spells out the words Raider Dome. The main concourse wraps around the upper-level seating area which are pull-out brown bleachers that also house a couple of scoreboards at each end. The area is also a common area for fans to mingle during the game. There are several tables offering ice cream sundaes and railings where you will find several people standing above the court, getting a bird’s eye view of a drive to the net. The team puts on an energetic pregame show where the lights are dimmed and a spotlight is shined on each home player who makes his way off the bench and onto the court. Once the tip-off has concluded the focus is on the game, but there also might be a few side conversations from the fans in the audience. Neighborhood 2 The Raider Dome is on the county road and several miles from the nearest restaurant or service station. The town of Bluffton is a 15-minute drive and offers several eateries and a downtown square with a few more options that are worthy to discover before tip-off. Yergy’s State Road BBQ serves award-winning barbecue and reasonable prices and might be a great option for dinner before the basketball game. The local joint features smoked chicken, brisket, and pulled pork platters and stuffed potatoes, burgers, tacos, and barbecue nachos. Tyeger’s Pizza Parlor is another local favorite for pizzas, subs, and calzones. However, it is the restaurant’s take on its crispy, thin pizza that turns heads. The Country Cork pizza featured sausage, corn, and mushrooms and was inspired by the pizzas the owners saw in Ireland. There are also pizzas of the month that range from Irish Stew pie, Ruben pie, and the Chicago dog pie. Billy Ann’s Supper Pub opens at 5 pm and offers a selection of home-cooked meals and a wide variety of beers in a hip setting. There are daily food and drink specials that provide another great place to grab a bite to eat before the game. Fans 3 The local populace does its best to support the Raiders on the court and is decked out in team colors of red and blue. The gym is never at full capacity and it does not necessarily have to be to notice the great fan support that this team gets during the cold winter months in Southern Wells County. Access 3 The high school is located about 30 miles south of Ft. Wayne and 20 miles east of I-69 through a few twists and turns on state roads. The use of a GPS will help guide visitors to the high school and gymnasium and once inside, offers two levels of seating that offer easy access during the game. Bathrooms and concession stands are located in the main lobby of the gymnasium. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket is $6 and is on par with other gyms in Hoosier State. The price of concessions is among the cheapest in the area and provides the ideal snacking food for enjoyment during a game. Extras 4 The Raider Dome receives a point for its magnificent domed ceiling that looms brightly up above both the court and seating areas. The gym itself is kept up rather nicely. The Raider Dome receives a second point for the two murals on each end of the building that add a nice touch to the aesthetics of the place. The Raider Dome receives the third point for its various vantage points that help eases congestion and give visitors a unique look at the game from up above. The Raider Dome receives a final point for the ice cream sundaes that are served by the track and field team at every home game. You can also get ice cream served with a brownie or in a cup by itself. Final Thoughts The Raider Dome is a rather distinctively designed building that features an equally impressive interior design. The colors pop brilliantly inside the venue, the crowd is passionate, and the local restaurant scene has a lot to offer in variety. A great small-time gym located just south of Ft. Wayne and a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis. It is a nice place to check out to get your fix on high school basketball in Indiana. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Reagan Field Gilbert Graves Cir Murray, KY 42071 Murray State Racers website Reagan Field website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 800 A Stable Environment Murray State University is a four-year public university in the small town of Murray, Kentucky, which is located in western Kentucky, just seven miles north of the Tennessee state line. It opened in 1923, and presently has a student body of more than 11,000 students. Its major focuses academically are the School of Education, the School of Business and the College of Science, Technology and Engineering. For 25 straight years, MSU has been recognized as one of the top regional universities in the United States by U.S. News and World Report. The school’s athletic teams compete under the moniker of the ‘Racers,’ a salute to the Bluegrass State’s predominant position in the horse racing and breeding industries. The ‘racing colors’ of the university are a majestic navy and gold color scheme, and the university has two mascots – a live thoroughbred named Racer One and a costumed mascot named ‘Dunker’ (basketball is the predominant sport on campus, having gone to multiple NCAA regionals over the years). All of the Racer teams compete in the Ohio Valley Conference, which is filled with geographically close rivals, such as Austin Peay, the University of Tennessee-Martin, Tennessee Tech, Belmont University and Southeast Missouri State University. The Racer baseball program has been in existence since 1924, and has played over .500 baseball within that 92-year span. It has appeared in three NCAA regionals over the years. Home turf for the baseball team is Reagan Field. Named for Racers coaching legend Johnny Reagan, who won more than 700 games in his career with MSU, the field opened in 1989 and features seating for more than 500 fans. Its dimensions are 330 feet to the foul poles, 325 feet to the power alleys and 400 feet to straightaway center field. Fences are only eight feet in height, which leads to many jaw-dropping leaps to rob hitters of home runs from both sides. Reagan Field underwent major renovations in both 2014 and 2015 to improve the fan and player experience. A new grandstand was erected, which offers chair back seating. Improved lighting was installed, making it possible for the university to offer more doubleheaders and night games, and new dugouts were built for both teams, a major improvement over their predecessors. Additional upgrades include a brand new press box and scoreboard, and a totally new sod infield. The stadium did retain one feature of the original structure by popular demand — terraced seating down both the third and first base lines. Oddly enough, a majority of fans prefer this to the new seating provided. Food & Beverage 4 Concessions are sold out of a portable trailer brought in before each game. The beverages sold are all Pepsi products (Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Dr. Pepper and Diet Dr. Pepper, along with bottled water). All beverages come in a 16-ounce size only and cost $1. The food selections consist of hamburgers, cheeseburgers and hot dogs, which all go for $3. Candy (Reese’s, Hershey’s, M&M’s and 3 Musketeers) all sell for $1 each. The remainder of the menu includes popcorn, sunflowers, peanuts and chips, which all cost $1.00. While the choices are limited, they are offered at prices that cannot be beat. Atmosphere 2 Murray State’s Reagan Field is the first athletic facility you will see as you enter the campus, but it seems overwhelmed by the adjoining Roy Stewart Stadium, as well as the CFSB Center , home of the Murray State Racers basketball team. You are in Kentucky, and that means the basketball team gets the most attention. Even the school’s mascot, a horse named Dunker, wears a basketball outfit most of the time. The Racers basketball team deserves much of the attention, as it has won 24 OVC championships and appeared in 15 NCAA tournaments. Reagan Field has great sight lines, as both the bleachers and the terraced areas are elevated above the field, with a great view of the action. There are eight rows of stadium-style seats and eight rows of aluminum bench seating in the bleachers. Persons sitting in the terraced area either bring their lawn chairs or stretch out on beach towels. The stadium announcer stays fairly much on the game and adds related information on upcoming games during lulls in the action. The Racers have a very well-groomed natural turf field with dimensions of 330 to left, 400 to center and 330 to right. The scoreboard is in left-center and provides only the game line statistics. There are no graphics capabilities. Neighborhood 3 Reagan Field is in the on-campus athletic complex located at the intersection of Highways US 641 and Kentucky State Highway 121. Just across the highway is the business district of Murray. It is filled with big-box stores and every fast food restaurant you can imagine. There are three lodging options in Murray (Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn and the Best Western University Inn). For dining; I would suggest Jasmine, Mugsy’s Hideout or The Keg. The Keg has a surprisingly varied menu, including barbecue, seafood and many Cajun options. (The owners originally hail from the Pelican State). These are all locally-owned businesses. Fans 2 The fan base of the Racers baseball program is basically the parents of the ballplayers, the girlfriends of the players and 10-20 students who are friends of the players. The visiting team on the day we attended, which came from a campus more than 100 miles from Murray State, actually brought more fans with them. Access 2 Murray State University is not the easiest location to get to, as it is located more than 30 miles from the nearest interstate (I-24), depending on which way you are coming from. The main road bringing you into Murray from whichever direction will be US 641. You will come to a red light at the Hwy 641/Hwy 121 intersection and turn into the entrance for Murray State University’s athletic complex. You will find free parking at the Roy Stewart Stadium parking lot adjacent to Reagan Field. Return on Investment 4 Reagan Field receives a high score in this section, not for an outstanding experience, but because it virtually costs nothing to attend a Racer game. There is no admission charged, and the seating options go from stadium seats to stretching out on a beach towel with a great view of the game. Parking is free and adjacent to the field, and the concession prices beat even a fast food restaurant. Extras 1 One of the best extras for Murray State is the route you take to get there from I-24. This route will take you through the Land Between the Lakes Nature and Recreation area. Most of the 30 miles between I-24 and Murray are included within this park. The two lakes combined, Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, have a combined shoreline of more than 3,000 miles. The land mass between them offers boating, fishing, a wildlife preserve for bison and elk and some terrific scenery.

Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey My beloved hometown of San Antonio is known the world over as a true food lovers’ paradise. We – and I almost exclusively use “we” when talking about the Alamo City – were the second city in the United States to be recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative City of Gastronomy . If you want it, we’ve got it. The Best  Tex-Mex in the state? Yep, that’s ours (come at me everyone else; this is the hill I will die on). Great barbecue? We’ve got that, too. The city is also home to a burgeoning food hall, world-class steakhouses, authentic Asian cuisine, and one of the oldest German restaurants  in the country. We are also home to some truly unique dishes that aren’t found outside of this pocket of the Great State of Texas – in a previous story I unveiled the puffy taco  to the wider world. This time around, I will shed light on an even more obscure, equally loved, and sadly vanishing dish: the crispy dog . The long and short of it is that a crispy dog is a plain hot dog stuffed with American cheese, then wrapped in a corn tortilla and deep fried to a nice golden brown. Served up with your dipping sauce of choice (I prefer straight up mustard, but that’s just me), this dish has always been an inexpensive, deeply satisfying way to fill a belly. Humble yet cherished. If you find someone who is from San Anto  of a certain age, they will probably have a story about a maternal member of their family – their mom, their tía , or their abuela  – making this dish for them. If you’ve got that memory deep inside of you, your first bite of a crispy dog is instant nostalgia doused with familial love. Once upon a time you could find the beloved crispy dog right alongside the puffy tacos, enchiladas, and chalupas, etc. These days, however, you will be hard-pressed to find them on any menu. However, the OG of crispy dogs is Ray’s Drive Inn . After more than a half century this place is still alive and well, and still serving up the best version of the crispy dog in Texas. Ray’s is also at least an early server of, and at best the originator of, the puffy taco. Restaurant founder Ray Lopez put the crispy dog on the menu beginning in 1956, and it has been a staple ever since. Ray’s Drive Inn’s crispy dogs come two to an order with the aforementioned side of mustard – the first bite is the best; crispy (naturally), gooey, and savory. It’s a dish that’s truly greater than the sum of its humble parts. My one bit of warning is that these are extremely addicting, so by the time you’re halfway through your second dog, you’re contemplating another order. While the crispy dog may be vanishing from most restaurants, if you can find a place that still offers them up, you’re in for a treat. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

The great part about taking in games in different parts of this great country of ours is – in addition to the on-field, on-court, on-ice, on-track, etc., action – the chance to partake in some truly unique regional dishes.   I have endeavored to do this in each and every one of my travels; I like to call it having the “food of the place” and it is a ritual that has proven to be both beneficial in enriching my outlook on life and detrimental to my waistline.   My beloved hometown of San Antonio, Texas, has rightfully earned a reputation as being a great food town over the years. Whenever someone makes a visit to the Alamo City, I feel it is my duty to show them some of the dishes that make us truly unique. To wit, this piece on a unique innovation in our Tex-Mex arsenal the puffy taco.   There are dueling stories of how the puffy taco was invented. Both Ray's Drive Inn  and Henry's Puffy Tacos  lay claim to the creation of the puffy taco, which dates back to the late 1960s or early 1970s, depending on who you listen to.   Regardless of the “controversy," one bite of a puffy taco and you'll get why a) San Antonians love them and b) why the restauranteurs are so protective of this dish.   So, what's a puffy taco you ask? Well, let's start with the “puffy” part. You take an uncooked corn tortilla and in lieu of heating it up on a flattop stove, you toss that bad boy ball of goodness into hot oil. Once the masa comes into contact with the frying medium, they almost immediately begin to expand or become puffy.   At that point, depending on where you get them, there are about a dozen different permutations – just like a “regular” taco. This infinitely Instagramable dish has proven to be a hit with just about anyone and everyone who's had the good fortune of throwing one down since day one.   The go-to version is the traditional picadillo (pee-kah-dee-yo) taco, which is seasoned ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, and spices. This is more akin to what you would think of in a traditional taco and is quite great. If you're lucky though, you can find beef and/or chicken fajita versions, bean and cheese, shredded chicken, and guacamole. They almost always come topped with the traditional “salad” of shredded lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes; it's up to you to add any hot sauce or salsa .   A forewarning though, the integrity of your puffy taco “shell” depends wholly upon your filling. Your more sauce laden varieties will probably mean you're gonna have a split right down the middle so be sure you either give it a good haunch over your plate to catch the spillage or wear an outfit you don't mind littering with taco.   The main sporting venue that sells this delicious San Antonio staple is Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium , home of the San Antonio Missions.   Not only does Henry's Puffy Tacos has a scaled-down stand at the ball park, but they also supply one of the team's mascots, Henry the Puffy Taco , naturally. Just like his namesake dish, the Taco has also grown a cult following in the city. Henry the Puffy Taco of the San Antonio Missions If you're a taco “purist,” the puffy version might seem like a gimmicky, novelty item. However, if you just like good eating, this is something you need to have.   On your next visit to San Antonio, do yourself a favor and not only take in a game at the Wolff, but skip the hot dog line and go for something that is truly a taste of the region. Have a puffy taco or two – heck, have three if you've got the room – and get a taste of what San Antonio is all about.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Regions Field 1401 1st Ave S Birmingham, AL 35233 UAB Blazers website Regions Field website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 8,500 It’s Time for Blazerball! The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is the third largest school in the Alabama University System, with more than 21,000 students. Its urban campus is located at the southern tip of Birmingham, Alabama. The school is relatively young, as it was founded in 1969. UAB is particularly known for its cutting-edge medical school. The sports teams at UAB are known as the Blazers, using a dragon as the school’s mascot. The Blazers participate in Conference USA at the Division I level of NCAA competition. The baseball Blazers began play in 1979 and have gone to two NCAA Tournaments and won one Conference USA title. The team has an unusual home schedule, as it splits its games between the on-campus Young Memorial Field and Regions Field , the downtown home of the Class AA Birmingham Barons. The February and March games take place at Regions Field, with UAB returning to their on-campus stadium once the minor league season gets underway. Young Memorial Field opened in 1984 and seats 1,000, while Regions Field opened in 2013 and seats 8,500. This review will focus on Regions Field, with some comparisons to Young Memorial Field included. Food & Beverage 3 Regions Field offers a wide variety of concessions including both generic stands as well as specialty foods through such vendors as the Bud Light Cool Zone and Dreamland BBQ. However, the stadium only offers a single concession stand along the third baseline for Blazer games. The stand offers chicken fingers with fries ($8), cheeseburgers ($8), hot dogs ($4), popcorn ($4), fries ($4) and chips ($2). Beverages include Coca-Cola fountain sodas ($4) and bottled water ($4). Alcohol can be served at UAB games, as it is not located on-campus. Domestic beers are $6. There is also only one concession stand a Young Memorial Field. It sells the same products as Regions Field but cannot sell beer due to its on-campus location. Atmosphere 3 Regions Field has been heralded as one of the top parks in minor league baseball. It salutes Birmingham’s industrial past with the use of brick and steel as its primary elements in its construction, it also salutes the future, as it offers dramatic views of the growing downtown Birmingham skyline, along with Red Mountain and the city’s famous mountaintop statue of Vulcan, the Greek god of metalworking. The stadium offers 8,500 seats, including 400 club level seats and 23 luxury suites. Berm seating is available in the outfield. It also has a 360-degree concourse, which allows you to get different views of the action, as well as to check out the many special food and beverage selections at the park. The park also features a large LED scoreboard/video board in left field. Unfortunately, many of these options are not available at UAB games held at the stadium. The outfield and berm seating are roped off from use by the fans and the concourse is also cut off just after the first/third base points in the stadium. In addition, the Barons team store is closed and there is no Blazer gear available for sale. Another issue is that there is no signage or other recognition that UAB even plays at the stadium… which really cuts down on the college atmosphere of the game. Once the game starts, the scoreboard does show UAB-related information and the PA announcer makes the basic line up and batting introductions. This all adds up to a less than electric atmosphere at UAB games played at Regions Field. By comparison, Young Memorial Field does not offer many of the bells and whistles or dramatic views of Regions Field. However, it definitely lets you know you are at a UAB facility. The entire color scheme of the park is in the green and gold colors of the Blazers. Banners are hung on the outfield wall highlighting the championship years the team has experienced. The dragon logo is prominently displayed on the wall padding and other parts of the park. The seating capacity is much smaller, but that seems to create more enthusiasm within the crowd. Neighborhood 5 Regions Field is located within the Parkside District of Downtown Birmingham. Its construction was seen as a way to revitalize the southern end of the downtown area. It has certainly done that, as the Railroad Park was constructed across the street from the stadium and new restaurants and shops are filling in long abandoned space in the area. Several hotels have been built in recent years to service both Regions Field and the nearby UAB Medical Center. One must look no further than beyond the outfield walls to see all the residential growth in the area, as apartments overlook both center and right field. Young Memorial is by nature a part of the UAB academic campus. It is surrounded for the most part by academic structures. Its newest neighbor is BBVA Stadium, home of the Birmingham Legion of the USL. Fans 3 The fan base differs greatly between Regions Field and Young Memorial Park. Regions Field tends to attract more locals from the communities that encircle the stadium and the family and friends of the players. When UAB is playing a local or major college rival (Samford, Jacksonville State University, Troy University, Alabama or Auburn) there is a more evenly spread crowd of the local community and members of the UAB student body. Other than these key games, the turnouts at Regions Field tend to be in the hundreds, which results in a quite muffled response, even after a UAB score, due the large area the stadium covers. The seating arrangement is on bleachers rather than seats at Young Memorial Field. However, there is a much larger turnout from the student body for games. The on-campus nature of the smaller park seems to also bring more energy to a confined seating area, resulting in a more boisterous crowd during rallies or the team getting out of a tough spot defensively. Access 3 Access to both Young Memorial Field and Regions Field has been impacted by a major construction project impacting the I-20/I-59 interchange. It is best to use your favorite mapping app/GPS for the most current directions, as the project will affect other exits as it progresses. Regions Field only has a 250-space parking lot. However, there are more than 2,500 parking spaces within five blocks of the stadium. Paid parking lots typically charge $5, but lots of on-street parking is readily available for weekend games. Parking is available at a UAB Parking Deck immediately across the street from Young Memorial Field. Return on Investment 4 Both Regions Field and Young Memorial Field offer an excellent return on investment. Admission is $7 at both locations and the concession prices are identical. Parking at both locations is either very expensive or free. Extras 3 Former MLB player and longtime manager Harry “The Hat” Walker served as the first UAB coach for the baseball program. Baseball has a long history in Birmingham, dating back to 1885. For most of these years it was played at Rickwood Park, one of the oldest baseball parks in the country. It is still in use for some college games and the annual Rickwood Classic, a fundraiser to help underwrite the maintenance cost of the stadium. The Barons and the opposition don period uniforms for this throwback game. The Negro Southern League Baseball Museum adjacent to Regions Field is well worth a visit. It is not open on Sundays. Final Thoughts Regions Field provides an excellent atmosphere for baseball at the minor league level, as it offers many amenities not found at other ballparks at the AA level. Unfortunately, many of these same amenities are unavailable to the fans at UAB baseball games. The typical attendance at UAB games is dwarfed by the sheer size (8,500 seats) of Regions Field. This tends to minimize any fan impact on the game. The lack of any UAB branding at the stadium also deters from the fan experience. At the college level, nothing can beat the unique feel of an on-campus facility.

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 Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Rice-Eccles Stadium 451 South 1400 East Salt Lake City, UT 84112 Utah Utes website Rice-Eccles Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 45,807 The Fuss About the MUSS Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah is one that Goldilocks might call “just right.” It is in that sweet spot between not too big and not too small – big enough that it doesn’t feel like a high school game, but small enough that getting in and out isn’t a chore, like at Michigan or Nebraska. More importantly, it is in a Power 5 conference. There are lots of mid-size stadiums around the country, but most are in the MAC, Sun Belt, or the like – not so with Utah. So when you visit RES, you can be assured of a high-power matchup with quality teams such as Pac-12 powers like Oregon or USC. Food & Beverage 3 At RES, you will find all of the standard fare at pretty reasonable prices; most items range from $4 to $7, including chicken tenders, burgers, Philly and BBQ sandwiches, hot dogs, and fries. For those with a sweet tooth, RES offers ice cream and churros. A full menu of stadium fare can be found in the online fan guide, which has a listing of which selections are available at which concession stands, so bring your smartphone with you and you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for. Beverages at RES include Coke products and water – no alcohol is permitted in the stadium, legally anyway, probably because the stadium is on campus. One nice thing about RES though is that they let you bring bottled water from home, limited to one factory-sealed container of one liter or less per person. This is actually becoming more common in stadiums across the country, especially in the south, due to health concerns related to overheating and dehydration. Atmosphere 4 Simply put, RES is a great place to watch a football game, and there is plenty of excitement both inside and outside the stadium, including the Ute Walk and Olympic Cauldron Park. Fans who arrive at least 2 ½ hours early can watch the marching band lead the team down 500 South to the stadium, accompanied by the Spirit Team, a group of cheerleaders who hand out t-shirts and other souvenirs to their adoring fans during the walk. Olympic Cauldron Park is located directly south of the stadium, and houses the 2002 Olympic museum, in addition to the cauldron used in those games. There is concern about the future of the park, however, given the school’s plans to expand the stadium at some point. Nevertheless, RES provides a fun atmosphere in a beautiful setting, and Utah is a program that has been on the rise even before the school joined the Pac-12, thanks in part to former coach Urban Meyer. Kyle Whittingham has done a phenomenal job since taking the reins, and has managed to keep Utah competitive in a much tougher league. Neighborhood 4 The scenery around RES is stunning, especially in the daytime, when the mountains are at their most majestic (and most visible). The stadium is also located on campus, so there are a number of fraternity and sorority houses near the stadium, which is a fabulous plus on game days and adds to the atmosphere. As you walk to the stadium, you can’t help but soak up the excitement from these students as they gear up for the contest. In addition, there are plenty of great restaurants and bars near the stadium. Big Ed’s is probably the most popular – about four or five blocks from the stadium; it is the classic college dive bar with fabulous, cheap food, including breakfast items. The Gawd Awful should be at the top of your list. This delectable dish is a mess of hash browns loaded with chili, cheese, and onions, all topped with a fried egg. Fans 4 Knowledgeable and enthusiastic, the fans are a big factor in making this a great college football venue, especially the student section. Monikered the MUSS (Mighty Utah Student Section), they are loud, proud, and geared up with bright red shirts and banners a-flying. Founded in 2002, the MUSS is the university’s student fan club for football and other sports, and you actually have to register to join. In 2004, the MUSS was named one of the top five student sections in the country by ESPN, and the current group is not far from capturing that honor again. Outside the student section, the fans are not quite so riled up, but equally knowledgeable, and are not at all shy about screaming wildly (or booing mournfully) as the occasion requires. This is precisely why Utah broke five football attendance records during the 2014 season alone. Access 3 Since it is on campus, RES is difficult to get to, as many of the nearby roads are closed off, or dead-end at other campus buildings, and many of the parking lots are restricted to students and faculty. Traffic after the game is also pretty intense, and it could take you a while to get away. You may be better off parking further away and walking in so you can avoid some of it. Pedestrian traffic inside the stadium is much easier to manage; the concourse is wider than most and there are plenty of entrances. Given the relatively smaller crowd compared to some venues, bathrooms are easy to get to, and lines inside the stadium are not overly long, since there are multiple refreshment carts and concession stands scattered around inside. Return on Investment 4 If you buy directly from the school, tickets will run upwards of $50 or more, depending on the game. Third party vendors are not much better, since many of the games are marquee match-ups. However, parking is only $10, and food is not overly expensive, so that makes up for the ticket price. All in all, visiting RES is definitely a worthwhile experience for the money given the great atmosphere and all of the extras. Extras 5 The first extra point goes for Rice-Eccles Stadium being nestled in the Rockies; not many stadiums can make this claim and provide such a glorious backdrop. Another point for hosting the Olympics, and having the park to prove it – this will give your trip a nice bit of historical significance. A third point for the giant U on the mountain, which is certainly worth capturing on film. As an added bonus, when Utah wins the U is lit up in red, so even if you don’t love the Utes you just might want to root for them anyway, because it is an awesome sight to behold. Finally, the absolute, completely best thing about seeing a game at RES is that they let you go on the field after the game! How cool is that? It is a totally awesome experience, and definitely makes the trip worthwhile, so it gets two points. And I don’t mean only when they beat BYU or a top 10 team – you can do that after every game. It is an absolute blast, and a definite must; take a selfie on the logo or throw a ball around with your kids or your buddy on a real field. Going out onto the field is certainly a rarity in the world of college football today, and should be on any fan’s bucket list. Final Thoughts Visiting RES is well worth the trip, given the historic significance, the wonderful fan base, the vibrant atmosphere, the mountain scenery, and the opportunity to experience things like going on the field at the end of the game. This stadium will NOT disappoint.

Photos by Jon Hart, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Richmond County Bank Ballpark 75 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY 10301 Richmond County Bank Ballpark website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 7,171 Home of the Baby Bombers In a town where Major League sports rule, Richmond County Bank Ballpark provides a fun, affordable option for baseball enthusiasts. In its two decades of existence, more than 100 Staten Island Yankees, otherwise known as the Baby Bombers, have played in the Majors. EDITOR'S NOTE: The Staten Island Yankees ceased in Nov, 2020. Food & Beverage 4 Richmond County Bank Ballpark hits all the ballpark standards, everything from chicken tenders and fries ($4 each) to grilled foot long hot dogs ($7) to Uncle Louis G Italian ices ($5), to name just a few. There are plenty of adult beverage options as well. Domestic drafts go for $7 while premiums go $9. There are some healthier options behind home plate. A container of hummus and carrots goes for $8. However, you might want to dine before or after the game. Staten Island has some of the best pizza on the planet – New Haven quality. There are no shortage of options. Check out this list: https://www.thrillist.com/eat/new-york/best-staten-island-pizza Atmosphere 4 There’s not a bad seat at Richmond County Bank Ballpark. You can’t beat the ballpark’s view of the adjacent harbor and the New York City skyline. Yes, they toss t-shirts into the crowd and have plenty of promotions. Neighborhood 4 Game changer: Empire Outlets, which offers a plethora of outlet shopping options, just opened and is right next door to Richmond County Bank Ballpark. Very soon, it will be adding excellent restaurants to its repertoire, including Shake Shack, which is extremely popular at Citi Field and exceeds the hype. If you want to leave Richmond County Bank Ballpark mid-game and return, they’ll stamp your hand, so you can indulge. Fans 3 It’s laid-back, minor league summer fun with lots of families and group outings. Loads of tourists are hitting Empire. It’s only a matter of time before they walk a few yards and discover the beauty of America’s favorite pastime at Richmond County Bank Ballpark. Access 5 Richmond County Bank Ballpark is mere steps away from the Staten Island ferry, which is one of the best deals anywhere. The 25-minute ride offers great views of the NYC harbor and the Statue of Liberty. It’s free ! If you’re driving, Richmond County Bank Ballpark, as well as Empire Outlets, offers parking for a fee. It’s possible to find a space on the street, but that will require some patience and persistence, especially on weekends. Return on Investment 4 In an overpriced town, Richmond County Bank Ballpark is downright reasonable. An outfield seat goes for $12 if you order in advance, $14 on the day of. Infield seats are a few bucks more. Again, the ferry ride, an adventure in itself, is free as are the weekend fireworks. Extras 4 In the promotions department, Richmond County Bank Ballpark shines. Most memorably, in 2015, 7,000-plus fans filled the house, many in costume, to salute “Game of Thrones.” GOT series author George RR. Martin was on hand. Just this past season, Richmond County Bank Ballpark hosted a “Billy Madison Night” in which fans received SI Yankees pencil cases. Coming up on August 24th, it’s “Harry Potter Night.” Lastly, every Saturday, the SI Yankees become their alter ego, the Staten Island Pizza Rats. For this, the squad dons special uniforms and pizza is served out of a cone . Final Thoughts In a Major League town, the SI Yankees aka The Baby Bombers aka the Staten Island Pizza Rats offers a fun, affordable alternative to the Mets and Yankees. You can’t beat the views, the free ferry ride and the brand new, elite mall just next door. If that isn’t enough, Staten Island boasts some of the best pizza anywhere. Jon Hart is @ManVersusBall

Photos by Martin McNelis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Richmond Park 125 Emmet Rd Inchicore, Dublin 8 Ireland St Patrick’s Athletic FC website Richmond Park website Year Opened: 1925 Capacity: 5,340 Revel At Richmond Richmond Park is located in the Dublin suburb of Inchicore, a brisk 20 minute walk from the city centre, encompassing the historic landmarks of The Guinness brewery, Heuston train station and Kilmainham jail. The land was a former British Army facility, which lay derelict for three years following the war of independence, before being used by local side Brideville FC for a year. They moved out in 1930 to let St Patrick’s Athletic in and despite a couple of relocation ideas mentioned by the club’s board of directors over the last 20 years, including an unpopular suggestion of a ground share with Shamrock Rovers, it remains home to the ‘Saints’ or ‘Pats.’ The present capacity is 5,340, with 2,800 of that figure seated. The club are the current EA Sports Cup holders and play in the League of Ireland Premier Division. For a stranger, it isn’t the easiest venue to find, with the offices and main entrance gates set in among terraced housing on a busy main road. When all the gates are open on a match day it leads you down a gentle slope into both the Main Stand and further along into the turnstiles. It is a homely stadium which has signs of both old and modern alterations, offering covered and open seating, along with traditional terracing areas. Behind the left hand goal, known as the Inchicore End, is an industrial unit and behind the other goal, the Shed End, are some modern day apartment flats. Across from the Main Stand, the River Camac runs behind an open terracing, which also has trees overhanging. As the League of Ireland matches are played through the summer months you might find your enjoyment of a match is interrupted by swatting insects away should you watch from this area of the ground. Food & Beverage 3 Standard fast food is available with a variety of options and side orders. You can have a variety of burgers, on its own, with cheese or bacon and these are 4 or 5 Euros. The same with fries, you can have them on their own or cheesy or garlic fries which are 3 or 4 Euros. A sausage and fries is 5 Euros, chicken burger is 4 Euros, jumbo hot dog is 4.50. There is a basic offering of soft drinks, with a couple of hot options like tea and coffee at 2 or 3 Euros each. Atmosphere 3 Once in through the turnstiles there is a walkway which has a handful of entrances into the Main Stand. The players and officials emerge from the tunnel in the centre and the dugouts are situated here too. Facing you on entry there are two portakabins perched on top of each other and this is where you will find the club shop. Going slightly to the left past the shop as you enter allows you to sit behind the goal or access to the terrace across. This area is one of the modern additions to comply with UEFA regulations for European ties. The Saints are regularly in European competition through both their league and cup finishes. The club were fined previously when part of the old wooden structure gave way, but this has since been replaced with a more robust frame. In between both these areas is where you will find the toilet facilities situated. In the centre of the terrace there is a small elevated television gantry. Both sitting and standing in these areas provide a good view of the pitch, but both are uncovered, so are weather permitting. The Shed End is used sparingly and normally for large away followings and it has an old roof which covers most of what is an old terrace area. The Main Stand is the busiest area of Richmond Park and if you’re not in early enough, the only seats available are down near the front. You may find your view obstructed by both the dugouts, the four floodlight pylons and four supporting pillars. On a decent night going behind the goal at the Inchicore seated area is a good vantage point to see a match. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is near the main motorway through Dublin, so is a busy suburb to get in and out the city. There are plenty of shops and pub options that cater to both football fans and local residents. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is a good option and near the ground. Attractions worth visiting include the Kilmainham Gaol (jail), Irish Museum of Modern Art, or take a stroll through the Irish National War Memorial Garden. Of course, no trip to Dublin is complete without a trip to St James’s Gate and the Guinness Storehouse. Restaurant recommendations include McDowells and the Patriots Inn. Fans 3 Depending on the competition and opposition, Saints will get crowds ranging from 800-2,000 for the average home match. The away fans congregate to the right of the Main Stand and despite relatively low numbers they make a bit of noise, which encourages the home fans. At the opposite end of the same stand, the Saints fans have their own group who sing and have a drum, generating a good atmosphere throughout the majority of a home match. Access 4 There is a bus route literally outside Richmond Park with the number 13 and 40 buses running approximately every 10 minutes to and from the city centre. The Luas tram and Heuston train station have stops which are about a 10-15 minutes walk away. If driving by car you would have to park some distance away as the traffic and supporters milling around on a match day slows Emmet Road down to a crawl. Moving around the stadium poses no problem, with the only area restricted by stewards being the covered terrace at the (away) Shed End. Return on Investment 4 The Saints provide average league pricing and good value for the different family categories. Ticketing is on par with other League of Ireland clubs and offers good value with Adults (€15), Students and concessions (€10), and children under the age of 12 with an adult (€5). You can purchase a ticket in advance of the match or get one from the club offices and a steward then scans you in on entry. Extras 2 Transport options are very good, the club shop offers a variety of souvenirs from; kits, jackets, accessories and DVDs which are priced from high (clothing) to €5 (key rings and cup win DVD). Final Thoughts Richmond Park is another intriguing League of Ireland venue, fulfilling some of the basic needs that fans want; homely, scenic and friendly. The club are one of the bigger Irish sides in terms of stature, resources, and success. This is definitely a good ground to tick off the list.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Riverfront Stadium 850 Park Road Waterloo, IA 50703 Waterloo Bucks website Riverfront Stadium website Year Opened: 1946 Capacity: 5,000 Improved Experience at Riverfront Stadium Riverfront Stadium opened its doors in 1946 as Municipal Stadium and was home to the Waterloo White Hawks of the Illinois-Indiana-Iowa League. In 1958, the stadium played host to a Midwest League team and the relationship continued until the end of the 1993 season when the then Diamonds left Waterloo for Lansing, Michigan, where they remain today. Riverfront Stadium hosted the University of Northern Iowa baseball team until the end of the 2009 season when UNI got rid of its baseball program. Currently, Riverfront Stadium plays host to the Waterloo Bucks of the Northwoods League. The Northwoods League is a collegiate summer baseball league, comprised of 22 teams. Players must have college eligibility remaining to play and the league uses wooden bats. In 2015 the team began improving its primary focus at improving the fan experience at Riverfront Stadium. The changes were felt and it was a positive step in the right direction for the team. The city, which owns the stadium, had even earmarked $35,000 in general obligation bond funds for the box seats. The old ballpark has a lot of charm and life left in it and it is an ideal venue for NWL during the months of June and July. Food & Beverage 3 There are two concessions stands, one on the third base side and one on the first base side. They are on the back side of the seating bowl, out of view of the field. A decent amount of traditional ballpark fare is available at generally reasonable prices. Among the highlights is the fry helmet ($9). This concoction of all things fried is served in a helmet and if this is your thing, you can’t go wrong. The helmet nachos ($7.50) are quite popular as well. Among the other items available are: hot dogs, brats, burgers, walking tacos, pizza, veggie burgers, and your typical snacks, most ranging from $3-$5. Pepsi products are the soda choices with your best bet being the 32 oz. Bucks cup for $3.50. Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Keystone Light alumiteks run $4.25 with Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Harder Cranberry, and Redd’s Apple Ale at $5.25 for tallboys. For more options, there is a small bar located on the first base side, near concessions. Atmosphere 4 Upon entering the seating bowl, it’s hard not to notice the wealth of greenery behind the outfield wall with a vast amount of trees taking up the whole area behind the wall, and is very nice on the eyes. A few rows of box seats sit behind home plate and run from dugout to dugout. The majority of the stadium is general admission with the best GA seats being behind the box seats. The GA seats behind home plate are covered and are certainly a nice option in the heat and humidity of the Midwest. Two sections of bleachers are located down the left field line and one down the right field line. Outside of the box seats, all seats are bleachers with the covered being a bit more comfortable because there are backs to them. In the right field corner is the Bud Party Deck. Here, groups of 30 or more can take in a game for $25 which includes all you can eat and drink. The Coors Light Lounge is in the left field corner and is for smaller groups of 15 or more for the same cost. There have been noticeable upgrades made between the 2014 and 2015 season, and all for the positive. The dingy looking green bleachers have fresh blue and yellow paint (the colors of the Bucks) and something as simple as a coat of paint makes an enormous difference. The speakers were upgraded before the start of the 2015 season, making the sound noticeably better. Music is played between innings when promotions aren’t ongoing and the traditional walkup music for the home batters is played. In the past, music was quite often played in between pitches which bordered on the annoying side. If it is still occasionally done, it isn’t even noticeable as it is kept to a minimum. The stadium is also noticeably cleaner than in the past. All these factors make for a fun game day experience. Neighborhood 2 There is very little in the immediate area in the way of food and drink as the stadium is surrounded by a large park area, a cemetery, and a residential area. There are plenty of options around town and within reasonable driving distance. If attending a day game and breakfast is your thing, Morg’s Diner is the place for you. Morg’s has great food at decent prices and is only a few blocks from the stadium. The one drawback is they close at 1 pm. Another great option is Jameson’s Public House in downtown Waterloo. Jameson’s is a great Irish pub and the menu has something for everybody. If you are a fan of Shepherd’s Pie, this is about as good as it gets. Wrestling is big in Iowa. If you are a fan of amateur or professional wrestling, don’t leave Waterloo without visiting the Dan Gable Wrestling Museum. The museum has so much to offer for fans of amateur and Olympic wrestling and also has its own wing for professional wrestling. It is definitely worth a visit. 75 minutes east of Waterloo you will find the Field of Dreams movie site, in Dyersville, Iowa. It’s a bit of a drive but entirely worth the time, especially in July and August when the corn is at its highest. This site from the iconic movie is an absolute must for any baseball fan and is completely free. Fans 4 The passion shown by the fans is very impressive. Gathering at Bucks games is very community oriented and it is a meeting place for friends to catch up and take in some baseball. The Bucks do a good job of incorporating fans into the game through promotions before and during the game. The fans are into the game and generally knowledgeable about what is occurring on the field. Access 3 Waterloo isn’t centrally located to much else and getting to the stadium is a bit of a trek when coming from out of town. Once you are at the stadium though, getting around is very simple. There is plenty of parking available and avoiding the first couple rows around the front of the stadium is a good idea due to potential foul ball issues. Restrooms are sufficient for the average crowd that the team draws although there may be some wait in a packed house. Getting around isn’t an issue with the concessions and restrooms being on the back side of the seating bowl. Return on Investment 5 It’s hard to beat the price of attending a Bucks game. Parking is free and single game tickets range from $5 for general admission to $8 for box seats. With the reasonable cost of food and drinks and constant promotions that give better deals, you get tremendous bang for your buck. Extras 3 The Bucks have a nice team store located near the first base concession stand. Around the park, you will find pennants and other reminders of the Bucks success, a nice look into the past. A nice option, especially for the kids, is the ability to see the teams prepare. Behind the right field Bud Deck are the batting cages. If you arrive early enough, you can watch some of the players taking batting practice up close. Also, along both lines, you can watch the starting pitchers warm up while being literally a few feet away. Final Thoughts Under new ownership, the Bucks have made a concerted effort to make attending a game more fan friendly. The park is much more pleasant to the eye, much cleaner, and the improvement to the sound system and much less intrusion of constant music blaring out of bad speakers has made the game day experience at Riverfront Stadium fabulous. If you find yourself near Waterloo, a trip to Riverfront Stadium will yield a very good time for a minimal amount of money.

Photo Courtesy of Cal Poly Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Robert A. Mott Gymnasium One Grand Ave San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 Cal Poly Mustangs website Robert A. Mott Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 3,032 The Asylum Located smack in the middle of California’s Central Coast region, California Polytechnic State University is a remotely located member of the public California State University system. Far from the bustle of Los Angeles and San Francisco, Cal Poly is surrounded by an oasis of wineries, beaches and mountain charm. The centerpiece of San Luis Obispo, the university is home to over 20,000 students in a town of just over 45,000 residents. San Luis Obispo County however makes up a large coastal county north of Santa Barbara with a population of over 250,000, giving the Mustangs a large local fan base to draw from. Robert Mott Gymnasium (aka Mott Athletic Center), the home of Mustangs basketball, is a portrait of well-maintained longevity. Opened in 1960, the facility manages to look brand new while simultaneously harkening back to an era of low bluegrass basketball played in a quaint fieldhouse. Seating just 3,032, it’s easy to question the need for a larger and more modern arena. But if you asked the Cal Poly faithful, it would no longer be The Asylum. Food & Beverage 2 At first, it’s hard to even tell if food is an option at Mott Gym. The one concession stand (two tables pushed together) is tucked away in one corner of the gym practically underneath the end court bleachers. Operated by two friendly college students, the concessions include tri-tip, Johnsonville brats, hot dogs, nachos (with plenty of toppings), kettle corn and beef sticks. Fortunately, the brand quality is considerably better than the high school concessions stand setup. Aside from the $7 tri-tip, everything is available for under $5. Beverages peak at a $4 Jamba Juice and include coffee, cocoa, Monster energy drinks and a variety of sodas. Atmosphere 3 Nicknamed “The Asylum,” the arena really is a surprisingly raucous atmosphere. What Mott Athletic Center lacks in size, it compensates for with noise. The Mustang fans normally pack the house and get behind their team in green. The seats are packed around the court on all sides with an excellent acoustic setting to deliver maximum noise. The energy is really only limited by the size of the gym. Any small school debate on whether it’s better to have a massive half full stadium or a tiny gym bursting at the seams with fans is encapsulated in Mott Athletic Center. On one end of the court is a small bleacher section mostly packed with a very engaged pep band. Although not large, this group of energetic students play their instruments loud and do their best to impact the game. In front of the band section the cheerleaders also engage heavily with the small, but mighty arena. Overall, the energy in the building is palpable for a Mustangs game. There’s also plenty of activity during each time out with t-shirts flying and typical basketball promotions rolling. Take the butts out of the seats though, and this is just a really nice high school gym that happens to host a Division I college team. Seats are broken into four sections that require walking along the sidelines to go between. Practice hoops hang from the four corners of the court and it would appear all of the bleacher seating retracts into the wall. New video boards have been installed at either end of the court giving a modern feel to the arena and the green and white paint is crisp and looks new. One of the cooler features is a long hall behind the media booth side of the court that acts as the Cal Poly Hall of Fame. This hall consists of glass casing extending from one end of the building to the other. While most of the names here will likely be unrecognizable, you’ll definitely recognize the faces of Ozzie Smith, John Madden, and Chuck Liddell. Neighborhood 4 San Luis Obispo and the surrounding area is one of California’s hidden treasures. It’s likely not on your list of must see cities in the Golden State, but I guarantee the area won’t disappoint. Just up the road from some of the Central Coast’s most popular beaches and surrounded by wineries, rolling hills, breweries and excellent restaurants, the area promises relaxation and comfort. Closer to the arena in downtown San Luis Obispo, you’ll find a gem of a downtown chock full of wonderful pre-game options. If a drink or two before tipoff suits your fancy, there is a myriad of choices nearby. Central Coast Brewery, SLO Brewing Company, The Library, Black Sheep, and Mother’s Tavern are just a few of the choices waiting for you less than five minutes from campus. For food, High Street Market & Deli, Ciopinot, Novo, Big Sky Cafe and much, much more offer delicious options in the immediate area. I would strongly recommend parking downtown and just strolling the beautiful streets to step inside the most tempting locations. Fans 4 Maybe they get credit for the lower capacity of the Mott Athletic Center, but the fans pack the place. I appeared at a game once only to find that no tickets were available. For this reason I’d definitely recommend buying tickets in advance. Outside the arena, a tent is setup and passionate fans congregate in what appears to be a more formal than usual tailgate setting. And it’s not just numbers that make the fans formidable. Once inside the gym the Mustang faithful are passionate, knowledgeable, and loud. Perhaps the recent successful trip to the NCAA tournament in 2014 has boosted their following, but it’s hard not to question if the Mustang’s following has outgrown the venue. Access 3 On a wide scale, San Luis Obispo isn’t particularly close to anywhere. While that makes it a hidden gem of a small town in the central coast, it also means it’s not easy to get to. Driving from any direction will require winding roads up the coast or through the mountains. Beautiful drives for sure, but not an easy day trip from most locations. Once in the area however, it’s incredibly easy to get to the campus and gym. The university is located just off of US 1 and US 101. Parking is a straight shot into a large garage or a large lot if you’re willing to walk a bit further. The Mott is located a bit off the road on campus, so anything other than the garage will be a short walk along a sunken sidewalk. Once inside the gymnasium, it’s small enough that you can easily access any seating. Keep in mind, it will likely be crowded and the bleachers have some long sections where you may have to climb over other spectators to get to your seats. Because of the high school gym layout, you’ll have to pay attention to game action as you walk the sidelines. To cross the baselines in particular, make sure play is safely on the other end of the court. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are very reasonable, in the $10-$20 range. Parking is $6 for bigger games, but apparently free for others. Food may not be spectacular, but it’s definitely cheap. Overall this is a relatively inexpensive outing for such a raucous atmosphere. Just be sure to buy your ticket in advance. Extras 2 There aren’t a ton of extras to speak of, but a couple of cool features come to mind. It doesn’t seem like an extra, but a packed gym at such a small size is unique for modern D-I basketball. So many teams nowadays are playing in cavernous arenas that aren’t even half full. In addition, the Hall of Fame is a very cool touch and adds a hint of history to a program and school you wouldn’t normally associate with tradition. Final Thoughts While not the biggest, baddest or most impressive of venues, Cal Poly basketball at the Mott Athletic Center brings with it an experience all its own. Add in the beauty of the surrounding area, and it’s more than worth a trip into town in your best green and gold attire to cheer on the Mustangs.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Robinson-Hale Stadium S Capitol St Clinton, MS 39056 Mississippi College Choctaws website Robinson-Hale Stadium website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 8,500 The Choctaws of Clinton, Mississippi Situated about 15 minutes west of Jackson, Mississippi is the nice, quaint, picturesque town of Clinton, home of the Mississippi College Choctaws. MC, as locals call it, opened its doors in 1826 and is Mississippi’s oldest college, along with being the second-oldest Baptist affiliated college in the U.S. The Choctaws first fielded a football team in 1907, and up until the 1930s regularly scheduled matchups against the likes of Mississippi State, Ole Miss, and LSU. Since 1972 Mississippi College has been a member of Gulf South Conference (GSC) of NCAA Division II; the Choctaws have won one D2 National title (1989) and four conference titles. GSC has become a football rich conference in recent years with member schools Delta State, Valdosta State, West Alabama, West Florida, and West Georgia constantly being ranked in the D2 football polls. On the west side of campus right off Interstate 20 is Robinson-Hale Stadium. Originally opened in 1985, Robinson-Hale Stadium underwent major renovations in 2011 – the renovation brought the capacity up to 8,500 making it one of the largest stadiums in Division II, and MC is constantly ranked among the top ten teams in the country in terms of average attendance each season. The stadium honors two men who helped establish the football program at Mississippi College; Stanley Robinson served as head coach and athletic director for 36 years, while Edwin “Goat” Hale is a former quarterback for the Choctaws (1915-16;1920-21) and is also the first Mississippi native to be elected to the College Football Hall of Fame. Food & Beverage 2 The stadium is set up with the home stands sitting on one side and the visiting stands sitting on the other, but there are only two concessions stands in operation, one on each side. The basic ballpark fare can be found at both and prices are reasonable, with costs being hamburgers $4.50, nachos and hot dogs $4, popcorn $3, and chips or Coca-Cola products in cans for $2. As usual for a religious college no alcohol is available at Robinson-Hale Stadium. Atmosphere 3 With a seating capacity of 8,500 Robinson-Hale Stadium is currently the eighth largest D2 on-campus football stadium in the country. Its most recent renovations occurred starting in 2006 with the installation of a state-of-the-art synthetic playing surface and a new track, followed by new iron fencing, new ticket booths, and new entrance gates added in 2011, and finally a new HD scoreboard installed in 2014 – much like the Choctaws basketball team next door, however, the scoreboard doesn’t show much in terms of replays. Robinson-Hale Stadium is set up like most stadiums of this size, with home fans sitting on one side and the visiting fans sitting on the other. The field faces north and south with the typical metal bleacher seating; the Choctaw fans sit on the stands to the east, while the visiting fans sit on the side to the west. The press box is located on the east side about 40 rows up, and at Robinson-Hale Stadium the home stands are kind of built into a hill, so when you enter you enter midway up the bleachers and can either go up or down, making the stadium seem to double in size when you enter. The home side definitely looks more modern and up to date then the visiting side does, though those stands do tend to fill up because Gulf South Conference teams travel pretty well. The home side extends from goal line to goal line, which accounts for about 80% of the 8,500 seats at Robinson-Hale Stadium, but the visiting stands only extend between the 40-yard lines. In addition, if you purchased a ticket from the home side ticket booth you are not free to walk to the visiting side, and vice versa, so make sure you know what side you want before you come inside. There is a small concessions stand on the visitors side but not much else. The view to the north at Robinson-Hale Stadium doesn’t provide much besides a view of the woods, but the view to south provides a back drop of the golf ball-shaped A.E. Wood Coliseum , home of the Choctaws basketball team, to the southeast. The MC parking garage is directly behind the south end zone and Frierson Field, home of the Choctaws baseball team, is to the southwest; about 100 yards behind the parking garage you can see I-10. There are various people tailgating in the south parking lot and in the south parking garage, and the four-story parking garage provides excellent views of the field from the upper levels free of charge. Many fans took advantage of that fact and tailgated and grilled out by their cars with plenty of shade and excellent views of the field, while fans in the stands had to endure the elements of a hot Mississippi September afternoon; it was almost like a party atmosphere in the parking garage though, with a lot of fraternities and college kids. There are no banners or anything at the stadium signifying past athletic feats, but there is one banner outside the stadium honoring former Choctaw and New Orleans Saints running back Fred McAfee. McAfee, perhaps the school’s most distinguished athlete, had a 15-year NFL career as an all-pro kick returner and was elected to one Pro Bowl in 2002. McAfee was eventually inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame, Division II Sports Hall of Fame, Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, and Mississippi College Hall of Fame. Neighborhood 3 Clinton is a nice, small, neat little college town, located about 20 minutes west of downtown Jackson. The town of Clinton was founded in 1823, with Mississippi College being founded three years later. The town was overrun with Union officers during the Civil War which destroyed much of the town, however, in the years after the war the college and the town underwent a massive reconstruction phase that resulted in hundreds of new antebellum homes, most of which are still standing. Most of the buildings on campus were built in the years following the war, and they are made with beautiful white marble columns. Perhaps the most historic building on campus is the Provine Chapel; opened in 1860 it is the only building on campus that predates the war, and was used as a Union hospital, as well as the first floor being used to house future president Ulysses S. Grant’s horses. I recommend getting to the game early and giving yourself ample time to walk around the campus – it is very small, but scenic. Historic Olde Town Clinton is just a couple of blocks north of campus, and is Clinton’s downtown area. I suggest walking from campus to the downtown area, as it is just a couple of blocks north along Jefferson Street. The street is lined with many beautiful antebellum homes, and with its brick-lined streets provides a very picturesque setting. In addition there are numerous mom and pop shops and small art galleries in the downtown area; a majority of the shops in this area are closed on Saturdays but there is one sit-down restaurant called 303 Jefferson (the name is the same as its address), which would be a good place to get a drink or get a hot meal. There is also a large bookstore with a cafe attached to it, but that is also closed on Saturday nights – it would be nice if some of these shops and eateries were open later. However, the road headed into campus (Highway 80) has all the regular fast food chains, so you should be able to find plenty to eat. For lodging the area south of campus has several hotels (Fairfield Inn, Hampton Inn, etc.) and you are only a short 20-minute drive from Jackson, where additional lodging and restaurants can be found. For something to visit while in the area, I recommend making the 30-minute drive west to Vicksburg, which is also a very historic town, so history buffs can spend a weekend walking around the downtown area and the Vicksburg Military Park, which was the site of one of the most important battles in the Civil War. You pay per vehicle and can drive all around the different historical areas of the park, so one could spend hours here and I highly recommend it. Fans 4 Last season the Choctaws averaged about 4,100 fans per game, and this season the average is slightly lower at about 3,400, but this is partly because Homecoming and Senior Night haven’t happened yet; those two games usually account for a huge spike in attendance. I was pleasantly surprised to find the Student Section pretty full, with many fans engaged and into the game – between the people tailgating in the parking lot and in the garage, it definitely raises the score one point. It was great to see a nice turnout for this level of football, with fans treating it like their own D1 football game. Because of the close proximity between the schools in the Gulf South Conference, and because of the easy access into Clinton, many rival fans turn out for games which can create a raucous atmosphere. In fact, for some games like when Delta State comes to town there are just as many opposing fans as Choctaw fans. Access 4 You will not find a more accessible college anywhere in the state than Mississippi College. Conveniently located in the center of the state, you are within a 3-4 hour drive to anywhere in Mississippi. The main road into Clinton is I-20, and you would take this road if traveling from the east or west. Note that I-20 can have horrendous traffic, especially at the I-55 junction, so take this into account, though it shouldn’t be a problem on a Saturday. Mississippi College’s campus is located on the far west side of town, so take Exit 35 and you will see the large golf ball-shaped dome; this is A.E. Wood Coliseum , home of the Choctaws basketball team. The football stadium is located right next to the coliseum and the baseball field, and there is plenty of parking around the coliseum and its surrounding lots. Highway 80 runs from Jackson right into campus, but it takes you through a rough section of town in the south Jackson area. However, if you want to take the scenic route the historic Natchez Trace Parkway also runs right through Clinton – this two-lane road is very peaceful and completely void of red lights and commercial traffic. The Trace has tons of areas you can pull off and visit such as Indian mounds, old cemeteries, historic houses, natural trails, campgrounds, etc. so if you have the time, I suggest driving down the the Trace just for its scenic beauty alone. Just make sure you go the speed limit though – the whole parkway is administered by the National Park Service and the speed limit is between 40 and 50; you will have to pay a pretty hefty fine if you are caught speeding. Return on Investment 3 Tickets were priced as follows: $10 for general admission which allows you to sit anywhere in the grandstand, and is about an average price for this level of college football – the whole stadium is bleacher seating on both sides, except for a few chairbacks in front of the press box. The chairbacks cost $15, or you can purchase a season ticket package for the chairbacks at $75. Parking is free here and concessions prices are reasonable, so although you aren’t going to be watching future NFL stars on the field, I consider it a good return on investment with another plus being the easy accessibility. So if you are in the Jackson area on a Saturday night in the fall I would definitely recommend a trip to Clinton for a Choctaws football game. Extras 3 One extra for the level of competition that comes through here on a yearly basis – though the Gulf South Conference isn’t the SEC or a power 5, it is one of premier conferences in D2 football. Fans get to see some pretty good football come through Robinson-Hale Stadium on a yearly basis, with teams like Valdosta State who have won four D2 National titles, or Delta State who have over 10 playoff appearances and who played for the National Title in 2000, or newcomers like West Florida who reached the D2 National title Game in just their second year. So, fans attending games here are watching players who could play D1 football, or at the very least compete with some of the teams in the lower level conferences at the D1 level, so the level of competition is quite high. Another extra point goes to the campus itself – I recommend just walking around the campus and the town of Clinton before the game as the area is very pretty. The campus and downtown area cover just a couple of blocks, so you could easily walk around downtown Clinton for 30 minutes or so before the game. Another extra goes for the accessibility; Mississippi College’s campus is one of the most convenient campuses I’ve ever visited. You could go from driving on the interstate, to parking, to sitting down in your seat in less than 10 minutes, as Robinson-Hale Stadium is literally 100 yards or so from the interstate. Final Thoughts Robinson-Hale Stadium remains an excellent place to watch a football game. Though you will not find a lot of frills or excitement, you will get to see some exciting football during most games from a D2 conference powerhouse. There is always guaranteed to be a good turnout for a Choctaws game, and the college has a beautiful historic campus; the downtown area also provides a nice setting, and this campus remains one of the most accessible college campuses I’ve ever been too. So, if you are in the Jackson, MS area on a Saturday in the fall then I recommend a trip to Robinson-Hale Stadium.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey / Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium 1500 Peachtree Street Jackson, MS 39202 Belhaven Blazers website Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1950s Capacity: 500 D3 Blazers Belhaven University is a small private Christian university located in Jackson, MS. The college was founded in 1883 through the merger of two schools, Mississippi Synodical College & McComb Female Institute. The school’s current location opened in 1894 in the mansion of former Confederate Colonel Jones S. Hamilton. The mansion was named Belhaven, and hence is how the university got its name. In 1927 a lightning strike destroyed the mansion, which housed the university’s only classrooms – the columns that stand today on the west side of the campus are the only remnants of the old college. The college was originally an all-female institute, however in 1954 males began being admitted the school, with a basketball program being established two years later. The college has a current enrollment of a little over 4,200 students, and fields 15 sports that compete in Division III’s American Southwest Conference (ASC). The Blazers are an odd man out in the conference, as 11 of the 13 schools that compete in the conference are from Texas. Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium currently seats around 500 people and is named for Charles A. Rugg, coach of the Blazers basketball team from 1964-1986. The arena originally opened in the 1950’s, but was renovated with the addition of Heidelberg Gymnasium in 1999. The facility now houses a separate gymnasium for intramural teams, weight rooms, an athletic training facility, and locker rooms for football. Food & Beverage 0 There is one permanent stand located in the gym but it was closed during the most recent game I attended. The stand is open for most games though, the reason it was closed on this particular night was the game being during Christmas break and most of the students not being on campus. Atmosphere 2 Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium is nice and small and definitely suits the team well, but it’s basically the same style setup you would find at a local city sportsplex or rec center. It’s a squared shaped building in the center of campus with the court facing east and west with one entrance on the south side of the building. As soon as you walk into the building you find yourself already on the concourse less than 20 feet from the playing surface. There is one set of restrooms on this side as well as a small trophy case, plus 6 rows of bleacher style seats on this side of the building which take up the entire south side of the court. The arena has regular bench seating with the seats painted the Blazers colors of green and gold. The north side of the building is filled with the team’s benches and scoring tables, so there is no seating on that side of the arena. Neighborhood 3 Belhaven’s campus is located in a mostly residential area north of downtown. The campus is located a couple blocks from their biggest rival and the team they played on the most recent night I attended, the Millsaps College Majors. While there is nothing within walking distance of the college, just a short drive north will take you to the Fondren District – located near the Ole Miss Med School this is Jackson’s nightlife area, and you will find numerous restaurants and bars on this one block strip, my favorite being Fondren Public. Bocce ball, corn hole, shuffle board, over-sized Jenga and multiple board games can be played inside and outside the bar, so this eatery has a really cool feel to it. There are numerous other bars and restaurants located in Fondren as well, however, such as Pig & Pint (known for its BBQ), Walker’s Drive In, Babalu Tapas & Tacos, and Sal & Mookie’s Pizza. But another bar in the area I recommend checking out is Brent’s Drugs – from the outside it looks like a regular pharmacy, and with the soda fountain inside it’s very reminiscent of a 50’s-style diner. However, in the back there is a speakeasy style bar that was used during the prohibition era – it’s a very interesting bar and it gets pretty packed at night. There are also numerous bars in the downtown area, a couple of miles south of campus, such as Hal and Mal’s, Fenians, and Old Tavern on George Street. In addition, Underground 119 is a cool underground blues bar located in downtown as well. However, the downtown area is not exactly the safest area so use caution when walking after dark. Lakeland Drive is located about a mile north of Belhaven’s campus and you can find all the usual chain restaurants and lodging in that area. For attractions in the area I recommend checking out the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, which is a very nice interactive museum that doesn’t get too packed during the week, and you could spend hours just walking through all the different exhibits located in the museum. The Hall of Fame is located on Lakeland Drive right next to historic Smith-Wills Stadium, former home of the Jackson Mets and current home of the Belhaven baseball team. Fans 4 One good thing about playing in such a small arena is that the fans are right up on the court engaged in the action, with the farthest rows of seats located only about 15 feet from the court. On the night I most recently attended the Blazers played their crosstown-rival Millsaps College and it was a packed house. Fans were very into the game with the crowd a mix of alumni, students, and teachers from each school. However, the reason fans packed the house on this particular night was because of the rivalry match-up; most games at Belhaven get maybe only about 100 fans in attendance. Access 3 The campus is located north of downtown a couple of blocks west of Interstate 55. If coming from any direction I-55 will be your best option – take the Fortification Street exit and then turn north on Greymont Street, which will run you right into campus. Once on campus Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium can be difficult to find as it looks just like the rest of the buildings on campus. The gym is located on the north side of campus right next to the brand new football stadium that opened in 2016. Once inside the arena the concourse is easy to navigate and you should have no trouble walking down and taking a seat. The seating bowl can only hold about 500 fans so walking the concourse, or trying to find somebody in the crowd, won’t be difficult at all. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free, parking is free, and there was no concessions stand open on the night I most recently attended, so this makes a great value for fans. I was able to watch a cross town rivalry game between two schools, one of which was undefeated, for absolutely free. Extras 2 One extra for closeness of the game action – you feel as if you are on top of the action the whole game, and it definitely enhances the atmosphere in the building to be able to sit that close. Another extra point for the World’s Oldest Singing Christmas tree, which is performed on the Belhaven campus every December. What is a singing Christmas tree you ask? It’s exactly what it sounds like – a giant Christmas tree with platforms where people stand and sing. When the Singing Christmas tree started in 1933 it was a first of it’s kind, and today the wood and metal structure can hold over 100 people. Over the years candles have been replaced with LED lights that change colors in various patterns and sequences according to the Christmas carol being sung, which creates a visual spectacle. The tree is set up at the football stadium next door and there are two performances each year. If in the Jackson area on these particular dates (usually during the week after Thanksgiving) I highly recommend checking out the tree. Final Thoughts Rugg Arena at Heidelberg Gymnasium is a very basic, high school-style gym that is small but suits the school quite well. It’s not a bucket list experience that you must visit, but if you are in the area and want to experience a lower-level basketball game then check out a game at Rugg Arena. The Belhaven campus is beautiful campus and is worth checking out.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 SNHU Arena 555 Elm St Manchester, NH 03101 Manchester Monarchs website SNHU Arena website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 9,852 Uneasy lies the Crown Not that long ago, the Manchester Monarchs were one of the more successful teams in the American Hockey League. The team was a perennial contender for the Calder Cup, sent dozens of players to the parent Los Angeles Kings, and played to near capacity crowds night after night at the Verizon Wireless Arena (now named the SNHU Arena). The Kings’ 2012 and 2014 Stanley Cup teams consisted mostly of players who came up through Manchester. In the summer of 2015 the Monarchs were swept up in the great western migration of the AHL. The Kings, who owned the franchise at the time, decided that having a team on the other side of the continent wasn’t working for them, and moved their primary affiliate to Ontario, California , 45 miles away from the Staples Center . The Monarchs, located over 3,000 miles away in New Hampshire, never stood a chance. The Kings offered Manchester a consolation prize in the form of the Ontario ECHL franchise, which they also owned. New Hampshire hockey fans were slow to warm to the lower level of hockey. Attendance dropped by 20 percent in the Monarchs’ initial ECHL campaign, and has continued to slip in each of the team’s four seasons in the ECHL. In January of 2019, the team’s owners, PPI Sports, who purchased the team in 2016, announced their desire to sell the team. The Monarchs have won one division title and made the playoffs in each of their first three seasons in the ECHL. Food & Beverage 3 Only a pair of permanent concession stands are open, selling hot dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, Italian sausage and pizza. Some unique items, including meatball subs and Caesar salad are also sold at these stands. Snacks, including popcorn, pretzels and peanuts, as well as healthier snacks such as fruit cups and parfaits, round out the menu. Fans looking to save a few dollars can purchase a Kids Meal Deal, which contains a hot dog, kids popcorn, oreo cookie and Tum-E-Yummie. Several portable stands sell Carvel Ice Cream and Dippin’ Dots. Check out one of the beer stands, where a carving station is set up selling freshly sliced roast beef sandwiches. Coca-Cola products are featured at SNHU Arena. Several brands of beer, including Coors Light, Bud Light, Miller Lite, Sam Adams and Labatt’s are sold here. Atmosphere 2 The game day atmosphere is where fans who have not visited Manchester in a while will notice the greatest difference. Not only have the crowds decreased, but many aspects of the game day presentation have disappeared as well. The kids’ zone remains on the concourse, but now consists solely of a single inflatable slap shot cage. The team’s mascot, Max, is hardly seen during the action anymore. No matter how hard they try, a crowd of under 3,000 in a 10,000 seat arena just can’t generate a whole lot of sustained noise or energy. The closed-off upper deck, covered by tarps on both ends, remind long-time fans of better days in the past. The arena’s scoreboard, once considered state of the art, now looks woefully outdated when compared to modern video boards present in so many arenas today. Neighborhood 5 Manchester is New Hampshire’s largest city, located about an hour’s drive northwest of Boston via Interstate 93. SNHU Arena is located on the western edge of the city, adjacent to the downtown region and the Merrimack River. The area around SNHU Arena is safe and walkable. Visiting fans looking for places to eat or drink will find no shortage of options close by. The Central Ale House, located a block from the arena, is a self-serve, pay by the ounce bar with a wide variety of adult beverages to choose from. The Red Arrow Diner is perhaps Manchester’s most famous eatery, having been open for close to a century. During presidential elections, it’s a favorite stop for politicians campaigning in the area and locals alike. There are many hotels located in the downtown area as well. Baseball fans will enjoy the view at the Downtown Hilton, which overlooks Northeast Delta Dental Stadium , home of the AA New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Fans 2 Fans in New Hampshire have not warmed up to ECHL hockey after many years of watching the AHL. Near the end of the 2018-19 season the Monarchs were averaging just over 2,400 fans per game, which ranks them 26th out of the 27 teams in the ECHL. It’s a decrease of 50 percent from the team’s first year in the league, and a far cry from the several years the team averaged over 8,000 fans in the early 2000s. New Hampshire hockey fans are very knowledgeable and passionate, and know their sport. A typical Monarchs crowd will look very much like most minor league hockey crowds, full of families and youth groups mixed in with the die-hard fans. Access 5 SNHU Arena is really simple to find, located about a quarter mile off of Interstate 293 on the edge of downtown. Simply take exit 5 (Canal St.), cross over the Merrimack River, and follow Granite Street up the hill through three sets of traffic lights. The arena will be on your right at the corner of Elm Street. There is a great deal of on-street parking available in the immediate area of SNHU Arena for those fans wanting to save a few dollars. In addition, there are ample garages and lots available for visiting Monarchs fans. A complete map of parking options can be found here . There is no entry lobby at SNHU Arena, which is a glaring omission when visiting during the frigid New Hampshire winter. After passing through a stringent security check, fans will find themselves in front of the arena’s stage and pro shop. A pair of staircases lead to the main concourse. The Monarchs have closed the upper deck due to the small crowds present at Monarchs games. The concourse circles the entire arena, and is easily passable, despite becoming narrow in some spots. Restrooms are more than ample for current Monarchs crowds. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Monarchs games are sold for $20, which will get you a seat anywhere in the lower bowl. Paying an extra dollar gets you a seat in one of the two center ice sections on either side of the ice. Seniors receive a two dollar discount, children a six dollar discount, and college students a ten dollar discount. Parking in the many garages a short walk from the SNHU Arena costs ten dollars, but frugal hockey fans should search the area around the arena for on-street parking. Meters run until 8 pm Monday-Saturday. On-street parking is free on Sundays. Concession prices are a bit on the high side, but are not unreasonable when compared to other venues in the area. Extras 2 The Kings kept the Calder Cup Banner that the Monarchs won during their final AHL season in Manchester at the SNHU Arena. Hanging next to the Calder Cup banner are two banners listing all the players who played in both Los Angeles and Manchester. Located on the concourse is a display honoring the history of New Hampshire hockey. Final Thoughts It’s sad to see how far support for the Monarchs has eroded in this excellent hockey market. After years of declining attendance and interest, the team is being sold for the second time in three years. The outgoing owners have stated a desire to find local ownership that will keep the team in New Hampshire, but it may be too little too late. At this point, the only thing that may be able to save the team would be an affiliation with the nearby Boston Bruins. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Pete Dowell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park 201 Soccer Park Dr Cary, NC 27511 North Carolina FC website Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 10,000 Where's the Excitement Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park was originally called State Capital Soccer Park when it opened in 2002. The soccer park has three FIFA regulation fields, one game field, two practice fields and four non FIFA regulation fields in the soccer park complex. The main game field is what was referred to by the using of the soccer parks name (State Capital / SAS / WakeMed Soccer Park) before the main game field received a name. State Capital Soccer Park’s first professional team was The Carolina Courage of the defunct National Women’s Soccer League (WUSA). State Capital Soccer Park was renamed SAS Soccer Park in 2002, renamed WakeMed Soccer Park in 2008 and in 2017 the main game field at WakeMed Soccer Park became Sahlen’s Stadium after Sahlen Packing Company gained the rights to the naming of the main game fields stadium. North Carolina FC of the United Soccer League USL (formerly the Carolina RailHawks of the USL) has been the premiere professional team at Sahlen’s Stadium since 2007. Sahlen’s Stadium was built specifically for FIFA regulation soccer and can seat 10,000 fans. There is not a bad seat in the stadium. North Carolina FC is in the process of trying to win a bid to join the MLS and become one of the elite USA soccer teams and build a state of the art stadium in downtown Raleigh, NC. The Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park experience is very tame by general pro soccer standards and may be an issue for admittance into the MLS. Food & Beverage 3 Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park offers many of the low end basic stadium food like hot dogs, chips, peanuts, soda’s and beer that mostly can only be purchased with cash. Local chain Backyard Bistro provides higher end foods like pulled pork sandwiches. The lines at the soccer park move fast and the concessions workers are very friendly and helpful. There are two different food stands. One stand has hot dogs and items like candy and chips while the other stand run by Backyard Bistro has items like fries and pulled pork sandwiches. The ice vendor where flavors can be added to the shaved ice is very popular at the game. All of the foods are well prepared and taste fine. A multitude of sodas are offered in the bottle at the main concession stand while Budweiser is the beer served out of a separate cart. I recommend trying a flavored ice treat. The flavored ice is a big hit with everyone at the park. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is very tame. The people in attendance are not invested in the game’s outcome and seem to be happy to just spend time out of the house with friends and / or loved ones. The stadium is very well maintained but very basic. A mix of metal bench seating with no backs, molded seating on metal benches with no backs, and molded seating with a back are available. Your seating will be determined by the type of seat you purchase for the game. There are only two built in structures for the sale of fan merchandise / food. There is a small but adequate digital score board / entertainment screen that shows scores, replays of the action and crowd shots.There is a built in second level press box and a second level premium seating.There is also third level seating that was not used during this game.This stadium feels more like a nice non-university college field than a pro team’s home field. The Oak City Supporters and Triangle Soccer Fanatics are support groups that are passionate about their team and prove it the entire game. The support groups are located in the south stands in sections 204 – 205 and are the highlight of the game as they jump around and belt out songs that fit how they feel about their team and what’s going on during the game. It was Wizard night the evening of this review and at half time two teams played Harry Potter’s favorite game Quidditch. No one paid any attention to the half time game. I recommend sitting in either of the mid field sections 105 – 106 & 305 – 306 so that you can get an even view of the entire field.During evening games sections 301-310 get a direct blast of sunlight while sections 101-110 get some shade and are the place to sit for evening games.There is an area called The Owners Club that has premium seating that will provide shade and it’s located behind sections 303 – 308. Neighborhood 4 Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park is located in Cary, NC a suburb of Raleigh, NC. Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park is located in the middle of a green area that transitions from HWY 40 to the shopping and homes of Cary, NC. There are a few places to eat within a mile drive of the stadium but nothing so close that it would be an easy walk. A short drive of five or less miles from the stadium will provide food choices ranging from fast food chains to a fancy four course meal restaurants. If staying in town for a few days during the soccer season I would recommend one of the free outdoor activities that can be found at one of the local nature and wildlife areas or one of the small local museums. Cary, NC is not a hotbed of action but does have many beautiful natural sites and is just outside of Raleigh which has loads of things to do. Raleigh, NC has natural sites, world class experiences and museums all within 10 – 15 miles of the stadium. I recommend trying Bella Monica for an early dinner before a game. Bella Monica is a mid-range priced Italian restaurant located just under five miles from the stadium with great food. I also recommend Dave & Buster’s for before or after a game for okay food with games and fun just 2.5 miles from the stadium. I recommend fishing, hiking, picnicking, and boating at Lake Johnson. Lake Johnson is located five miles from the stadium. I also recommend art viewing at the North Carolina Museum of Art. The North Carolina Museum of Art is located five miles from the stadium. I recommend staying at Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Raleigh / Cary. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Raleigh / Cary is located 4.5 miles from the stadium and provides all the mid-range amenities and comforts that this chain is known for.I also can recommend Best Western Plus Cary Inn.Best Western Plus Cary Inn is located five miles from the stadium and provides a safe and comfortable place to rest if you have a lower budget. Fans 2 Most of the fans seem to be indifferent concerning the outcome of the game. According to Soccer Stadium Digest North Carolina FC is in the middle of USL attendance ranking #17 out of 33 USL teams. So far in 2018, the 10,000 seat Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park is averaging 3,693 seats filled per game. Besides the Oak City Supporters and Triangle Soccer Fanatics support groups the fans don’t get very loud or excited for most of the game. Most of the fans seem happy to be out of the house. Fans somewhat watch the game but mostly just enjoy the soccer parks food and sights. Access 4 The stadiums lower areas are very accessible and have ramps and special seating for handicapped people. The stadiums upper level seating only has cramped, steep steps for access. The North Carolina FC provides transportation with snacks free of charge to fans on game day to and from the game. Go to North Carolina FC Express to see the multiple pickup and drop-off locations and requirements to ride. Free General Parking is located in Lot C. There are many lot attendants to direct fans through the paved and unpaved parking area on game day. A map of the parking areas can be found at North Carolina FA Parking . There is one entrance with a few workers scanning tickets for entrance. There are off duty police officers providing security and lightly checking purses and bags coming into the stadium area. There are no digital tickets and tickets purchased online can be picked up at Will Call or printed at home. The entrance area is where the concessions stands are located and the area is large enough that fans move around freely shopping, looking around and finding their way to their seats. There is a great view of the field as soon as you have your ticket scanned and enter the stadium as well as concessions and bathrooms. All of the facilities are clean and well maintained. Return on Investment 3 Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park provides entertainment that the whole family can go to. This entertainment might be slightly pricey for some considering the tame atmosphere of this venue. The cost of admission for regular season games range from $10 – $69 per seat. The cost of a food item (hot dog / sandwich) and a drink item (soda / beer) together will range from $10 – $20. The parking is free. The entrance prices are okay but the entertainment is less than what live pro sports should be. Money can be saved on tickets by purchasing season tickets or a multi game flex package. Extras 1 Minor league soccer always surprises me with the number of in-game promotions. Unlike minor league baseball or hockey, there are no game stoppages during which to run promos.The team, like other NASL and USL teams, announce games and contests while the ball is in play. Final Thoughts I went expecting more excitement and fan participation and what I got was a tame unappreciated soccer game.I’m not sure if the atmosphere that I experienced will be helpful in North Carolina FC’s push to become one of the newest MLS teams in the near future.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Salem Kiwanis Field 731 Indiana St Salem, VA 24153 American Legion Post 3 website Salem Kiwanis Field website Year Opened: 1932 Capacity: 5,000 An Old Classic in Salem, Virginia When I was driving to Memorial Stadium in Salem, Virginia, I stumbled upon another ballpark. I had thought I found the correct baseball stadium but quickly found out that I was someplace else. I was about a half mile from my intended destination, but this older venue caught my eye. It had some character and quirky dimensions and looked like it had been here for quite some time, the ballpark was Salem Kiwanis Stadium. Originally known as Salem Memorial Ballpark, the ballpark debuted in 1932 and offers a seating capacity of 5,000. It served home to numerous minor league franchises that included the Salem Friends, Rebels, Pirates, Redbirds, Buccaneers, and the Avalanche. The stadium’s current name was changed in 1995 since the new stadium’s site was previously owned by the Kiwanis Club; the old park took the Kiwanis name shortly after Memorial Stadium debuted. The University of Roanoke, Salem High School, Andrew Lewis Middle School, USSSA Events, American Legion Post 3 and the Roanoke Rails (Carolina-Virginia Collegiate League) all utilize the 87-year-old stadium for games and practice. A full-time staff does nothing but upkeep the stadium that is home to 200-300 games between January and November. The facility also has time to host a variety of non-baseball events that include music, food, and beer festivals. Perhaps the stadium’s darkest moment occurred on August 22, 1974, when Pittsburgh Pirates top prospect Alfredo Edmead was fatally killed after diving for a pop fly in right field and colliding with his second baseman in a game against the Rocky Mount Phillies. The game was stopped for 20 minutes and a crowd of 937 on hand were unaware of the severity of the incident. Edmead would be pronounced dead at the hospital and the following year a plaque was erected at the stadium in his memory that is now located at Salem Memorial Stadium up the road. The influx of baseball gives the old-time ballpark much needed service and perhaps provides a nice alternative to the minor league ballpark just less than a mile up the road. However, unlike many other older venues that meet the wrecking ball after a modern facility is built, Kiwanis Stadium kept on being home to baseball in the Roanoke Valley. Food & Beverage 3 The ballpark offers a small concession stand that offers more than enough items to keep you full during a ball game. They include hot dogs, chili dogs, barbecue sandwiches with slaw, nachos, super nachos (chili, onions, and jalapenos), hamburgers, popcorn, peanuts, and pretzels (salted and unslated). A hot dog is the cheapest item at $2.50 and the super nachoss will cost $5. Pepsi products are available and also include Dr. Pepper, Root Beer, and Orange Crush sodas for $2 to $3 each. If you want something do dessert the concession stand offers ice cream sandwiches, nutty buddy, freeze pop, and bomb pop for $1 each. Atmosphere 3 There is a sense of history at the ballpark that includes old, wooden seats with chipped paint that creak when you pull them down, a covered grandstand that dominates the grandstand, and quite a large amount of foul territory behind home plate. The area behind home plate also includes light towers that are in play and are padded for protection. The foul territory is due mostly to the design of the grandstand that does not feature a traditional curve and is embedded into a hill. This is partially due to the stadium being home to high school football, so less of a curve is beneficial for the gridiron, but it does make an impression to first-time visitors during the summer months. The entire grandstand is spread almost flat against the grassy hill behind it. The seating underneath the grandstand appears to be at least 60 to 70-years-old and are colored blue and scarlet red. There is bleacher seating down each baseline that is not covered by the roof of the grandstand. A simple scoreboard exists in left field and the views of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the scenery in the distance. Neighborhood 3 The home of the Salem Red Sox, Memorial Ballpark, is located just up the road less than a mile away from Salem Stadium, if scheduling permits, one can enjoy a doubleheader during a visit to the city. The town of Salem does offer enough activities to enjoy during an overnight stay or if you have a few days on your journey. There are plenty of attractions that include the Salem Historical Museum, Salem Market, and Longwood Park. The Salem Fair takes place the first week of July and includes fireworks during Independence Day. Dixie Caverns allows visitors to explore underneath the earth and a quick ride to nearby Roanoke features the Pinball Museum and Valley Greenways. Restaurant options in Salem include Blue Apron, Mac and Bob’s, Cafe Xpress, Macado’s, Local Roots, and Zorbas. If you are a craft brew enthusiast, they have you covered with Parkway, Olde Salem, and Big Lick Brewing Company. Salem offers a majority of major and regional hotel chains for your lodging pleasure. A majority of convenient locations are off of I-81 that runs north and south of the Roanoke Valley. Fans 2 American Legion games attract a loyal audience of family members, friends, coaches and peers from school. Despite the massive size of the stadium, the atmosphere is up close and personal. You could hear every banter, the ping of the ball off the bat, and the ball in the leather of the glove. The cheering from the fans provides a nice backdrop to all of this and one needs to be reminded to sit back and relax–similar to taking in a game at Mirmow Field in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Access 3 The parking lot is located behind the left field corner of the stadium and it does require somewhat of a steep climb to the main entrance of the stadium–it was built in a hill. There is a ramp that leads patrons to the main concourse. Once inside, there is plenty of room to move around and find the right spot for the game. Return on Investment 3 The price of a ticket for legion baseball is $8 a person, that price could differ for other events at the stadium. Not a terrible price, but the cost of a Salem Red Sox game up the street is $8 for general admission. The parking is free and concession prices are inexpensive. The investment is enjoying a baseball game at an old cranky ballpark that has a lot of life left in it. Extras 2 Salem Kiwanis Stadium earns a point for its views of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains–a beautiful backdrop in any stadium. The ballpark receives a second point for its odd dimensions that includes being built into a hill and offering old, wooden seats that could probably share quite a bit of history if they had the ability to talk. Final Thoughts I discovered Kiwanis Stadium by accident and its great to know that the place is still standing offering many days of baseball during both the spring and season. Its location near Memorial Stadium also makes it viable for a quick trip inside for a game. A ballpark of its caliber is definitely past its prime for the professional ranks, but it’s nice to know that if you ever want to step back in time, you have the ability in Salem, Virginia.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 SaskTel Centre 3515 Thacher Ave. Saskatoon, SK S7R 1C4 Saskatoon Blades website SaskTel Centre website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 15,195 Blades of Glory True story. Back in 1983, a Saskatoon-based investment group put together a deal to buy the NHL St. Louis Blues and move them to Saskatoon, a city that was off the grid for most hockey fans. Plans were put in place for a new arena to replace a dated historic downtown venue that had served the city well. Front office staffers were hired, and moving plans were put in place. And then it all derailed when the NHL Board of Governors refused to support the move. Lawsuits went flying from all sides, and in the end the Blues stayed put in St. Louis. Out of the disappointment of that debacle came a gleaming new arena and showplace for hockey in Saskatoon, an arena initially dubbed Saskatchewan Place. Fans who liked the old and creaky downtown barn weren’t happy with the move. But with numerous renovations, expansions, and now a showplace for some major events, the arena is now embraced within the community. Their principal tenants, the WHL Saskatoon Blades, are one of the charter franchises of the Western Hockey League, now going on 50 years as an anchor of that junior league. Add the newly relocated Saskatchewan Rush of the National Lacrosse League (NLL), a team drawing sellouts, including opening up the upper deck. Food & Beverage 3 Concession stands are amply scattered throughout the single main concourse, and nothing exceptional really stands out among the food choices. A barbecue stand offers BBQ brisket on a bun, BBQ chicken burger, and BBQ pulled pork sandwich ($6.75) along with BBQ pulled pork poutine ($6). There are also the standard hot dogs, foot longs, burgers, pizza and fries. Taco in a bag ($4.75) seems to be a popular item in these parts, and also a mention for the parmesan garlic fries ($5). One can also have the kettle chips topped with parmesan garlic if you ask. Pepsi products are served, and the beer selection is skimpy. Atmosphere 3 The biggest minus is the sheer lack of big crowds to ramp up the noise. With the size of the building, on most nights the upper deck is cordoned off with a huge curtain, placing the patrons in the lower seating areas. Even with an average crowd of 5,000, that does not fill the place, so the energy and noise is a bit muted and subdued. The fans who do make it here are spirited and knowledgeable. This is a Canadian prairie city with a good number of favorite hockey sons who made it big from this region, and another good number of marquee players who came through here. Neighborhood 2 Ugh. Place an arena in the middle of an industrial and office park, surround it with acres of parking, road access right through these desolate parks and onto area freeways, and to top it all off, the flatness and emptiness of airport runways just a mile or so to the southwest. There is absolutely no charm or elegance at all to the Sasktel Centre neighborhood, and one could only imagine how much nicer things would be if this identical structure was placed somewhere downtown, where there seems to be ample space. Most of the good eateries are a couple miles south of the arena straddling Circle Drive (Rt 16). Recommendations include Fox and Hounds Pub and Brewery, or Birmingham’s Vodka and Ale House. Try Grainfield’s Family Restaurant if you’re looking for comfort food and some local memorabilia, and even a treasure trove of trivia on the menu. Fans 4 The fans who support the Blades, and for that matter, supporters of visiting teams who make the trip for nearby rival cities like Swift Current and Prince Albert, are passionate and know their hockey. A good game night presentation adds to the fun, with a big furry white haired mascot named Poke Check working the crowd. There is just the appropriate level of music bumps and clever videos without being overwhelming. Access 4 If you have a car you are golden. Head north from the city and follow the signs to the arena off of the well marked road off of either Highway 11 or Highway 16 which split off just before the arena exits. There is parking on all sides of the arena and entry and exit from the parking lots are seamless. There is express shuttle public transportation service from the City Centre Transit Hub to SOME events at the Sasktel Centre. Best to check in at the City Centre Transit website before making plans to ride the bus. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start from $10, and run up to as high as $31 for the top tier premium seats. Here’s an advance notice – purchase them before the day of the game and you’ll save $2-$3 per ticket. Parking is free, with the exception of a small VIP lot where patrons can pre purchase parking right outside the door. With vast amounts of parking surrounding the building that seems like a waste of money. Concession prices are on the reasonable side. Extras 3 Saskatchewan’s true favorite son is hockey icon Gordie Howe, and his statue is on the entrance plaza on the west entrance to the building, providing a good photo opportunity. WHL division and championship banners hang smartly across the rooflines of the seating bowl. And another star for a series of bronze plaques in one section of the end zone concourse, memorializing the two IIHF World Juniors that this building has hosted, along with the Brier Curling Championships. The venue was also the host for the 2013 Memorial Cup. Final Thoughts In a league which runs the gamut of arenas from little more than an oversized community rink to the opulence of Edmonton’s Rogers Place , Saskatoon has itself a venue which has weathered well in its 30 years of existence, and has a “big league” feel even as a host for a junior team. The addition of indoor lacrosse has bolstered the building’s standing, even though the NLL is for the most part a shambles with its shifting franchises and lack of national sports legitimacy. No matter, fans pack the place. All in all, a visit to the Sasktel Centre is a must do when visiting the region.

Photo Courtesy of Bison Illustrated Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Scheels Center 1600 University Dr N Fargo, ND 58102 North Dakota State Bison website Scheels Center website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 6,000 Bison Basketball Winters in Fargo, North Dakota are notoriously long, dark, cold, and brutally windy, but that doesn’t stop the devoted fans of NDSU from coming out to support their beloved Bison basketball team. Sporting their green and yellow, Bison fans escape the cold by staggering into the Scheels Center a multi-use sports complex outfitted for numerous sports including basketball and track. The arena first opened for the 1970-71 season, and despite a few technological upgrades, it has remained fairly unchanged. Many details throughout the arena make the age very noticeable, a fact that does not escape the attention of the NDSU athletic department staff. They are on the verge of securing $32 million in private donations in order to improve the Bison Sports Arena, among other athletic buildings around campus. Until the renovations are complete, Bison fans are left to cope with an arena that struggles to identify itself as a basketball arena, instead of a multi-use sports complex. Food & Beverage 2 The Scheels Center offers your normal concession food choices, and not much more. They offer hot dogs, popcorn, and candy as their mainstays. However they do offer brats in both regular and Cajun flavor. The Cajun brat was a little soggy and not overly spicy, but fairly tasty nonetheless. If you find your Cajun brat too spicy, the concession stand offers Pepsi products to alleviate the burn, however, no alcohol is served in the arena. Drinks, like the food options are all very inexpensive. Most items at the main concession stand are priced between $2 and $4. The crowd favorite appears to be the Dippin’ Dots stand that is set up right before tip-off. The lines swelled at their stand during halftime, so if you are craving some ice cream, get down there quickly. Atmosphere 2 Since the arena is a multi-sports complex, they struggle providing the intimate fan experience like some arenas can offer. With the indoor track encompassing the court, the building is much larger than need be for basketball. The staff has gone to great lengths to make the arena not feel as cavernous by shutting off the lights behind the bleachers. The staff also installed large banners that provide a better sense of a closed off feeling, but it is still hard to forget that you are inside an indoor track. The majority of seats throughout the arena are wooden bleachers; they do have some seats with backs. Among the sections with backs on the seats, some do have obstructed-views due to support beams. Most of the atmosphere in the building is provided by the school’s pep band. They are small in number but large in sound. NDSU also has a large contingent of cheerleaders that are involved throughout the entire game. Most of the technological features in the arena were updated in 2005. They have two video boards that face each side of the court, and two digital scoreboards that are located at each end of the court. The sound system however left much to be desired. It was quiet, hard to hear, and not very clear. Neighborhood 3 The Scheel Center is positioned right in the heart of the NDSU campus. The campus is located in a mostly residential section of Fargo; however there are several bars and restaurants around campus that you can visit before or after the game. The resounding favorite seems to be The Turf Restaurant & Bar located about a mile from the arena. At The Turf, you can pick up a huge 32 ounce tap beer for less than five dollars, which goes great when coupled with their jalapeno cheese nuggets. There are also many fast food restaurants around too, including McDonalds, Taco Bell, Subway and Jimmy Johns. Fans 4 The fans are very knowledgeable and friendly in Fargo. They are more than willing to help you out by providing advice on where to go, what to see, and what to do while in town. The fans are not overly loud while in their arena, but that could be due to the fact that there were very few students in attendance during my most recent visit because it was a holiday weekend. Bison fans do have a tradition of standing until their beloved Bison make their first basket which provides a strong sense of solidarity between the fans and their team. Access 4 There are a number of parking lots around the arena and few, if any, charge fees to park. Once inside the arena, there is plenty of space to walk around without bumping into people, so much space in fact that many kids are running around, and some even throw a football around. In the arena, there are only a couple restrooms, but they are well-kept, clean, and stay relatively empty except during halftime. Due to the fact that the concourse, restrooms, concessions, and playing surface are all on the same level, the arena is very handicap accessible and allows ease of movement throughout. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to a Bison basketball game will run you between $10-$15 for general admission adult’s ticket and $5 for youth tickets. When you combine the price of the ticket, free parking, and inexpensive concession stands, a family of four can go to a Bison basketball for about the same price, if not cheaper than, a trip to the movies. Taking in a Bison basketball game is a great way to spend a cold winter’s night in Fargo without breaking the bank. Extras 2 One hidden gem of the Scheels Center is the Bison Hall of Fame that is hidden underneath the bleachers. It hosts a number of the NDSU trophies that they have won throughout the years. The Bison Hall of Fame also houses old field turf from one of the endzones of the Fargodome, which is the home of the famed Bison football team. The hall of fame is a definite must-see if you visit the arena.

Photos by Greg Johnston, Stadium Journey Stadium Info Fanfare Score: 3.57 Scotiabank Centre 1800 Argyle St Halifax, NS B3J 2V9 Halifax Thunderbirds website Scotiabank Centre website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 10,595 You’ve Been Thunderstruck Halifax, Nova Scotia has quickly become an enticing city for attracting professional sports franchises.​ Following the lead of the Halifax Hurricanes (National Basketball League of Canada) and HFX Wanderers (Canadian Premier League), along with rumors of the Atlantic Schooners (Canadian Football League) kicking off play in a few years, Curt Styres pursued an opportunity to relocate his National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) franchise. ​The Halifax Thunderbirds commenced play at Scotiabank Centre in 2019 after twenty-five seasons competing in Rochester, New York. Formally known as the Knighthawks, the team celebrated much success on the field winning five championships (1997, 2007, 2012, 2013 & 2014) and ten division titles. In an unusual turn of events, the Knighthawks are still in existence, but now as an expansion team with new owners, players and logo. The records and championships belong to the Thunderbird franchise. What is a thunderbird? In Indigious cultures, a thunderbird is a mythical creature, and a symbol for strength and power. A fitting name for a team playing an indigious game on native lands. Originally opened as the Halifax Metro Centre in 1978, Scotiabank Centre has undergone multiple renovations to keep the venue up-to-date and attract major events. The most significant renovations came in 2015, inconsequentially, when the Scotiabank took over the naming rights. With the addition of the Thunderbirds, the arena is now home to three major tenants, including the Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL) and the Halifax Hurricanes . With a capacity of 10,500, Scotiabank Centre is amongst the smallest in the NLL. Food & Beverage 4 Scotiabank Centre offers an expansive variety of unique food options that rival venues with higher capacities. Canadian and Maritime classics such as Poutine (Cavendish fries, beef gravy and cheese curds) and Donairs (spiced beef shaved from a spit and served on a gyro with tomatoes, onions and donair sauce) are available ​a-la-cart ​ or in a combo with chips and a Pepsi product. Other unique offerings include: mac & cheese (with or without fried chicken), footlong hot dogs, $5 sandwiches, a butter chicken bowl and burrito bowls. Look for most of these concessions in the wide plaza area behind section nine. Traditional stadium food choices include: individual pizzas, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, nachos, popcorn and candy. Alcoholic beverages are $7.25 for a 14-ounce domestic draft (Bud, Bud Light & Alexander Keith’s), and $2 more for 20 ounces. Alexander Keith’s also has their own kiosk offering craft brews, including the Lunenburg Coffee Stout and Highland Pilsner starting at $8.25. Cocktails can be “shaken or stirred” at the bar located outside section eight. Vendors rarely walk the seating area, so you’ll likely need to visit a concession stand for a desired item. Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the arena. Bring an empty water bottle and fill it up at one of the multiple water fountains available around the concourse. Overall, the concessions are well maintained and clean, with enough food and drink options to satisfy your cravings. Atmosphere 4 Largely due to its downtown location, with plenty of bars and restaurants nearby, the game day atmosphere outside Scotiabank Centre can prepare you for the thrilling action on the field. With the brick and glass bottom, concrete paneled top, and hints of the concrete seating area viewed from underneath, the arena is clearly distinguishable from Citadel Hill and Brunswick Street. Topography slopes down quickly around the sides of the building where the architecture is not as pronounced. However, large illuminated “Scotiabank Centre” signs were added to the blank facade, which can clearly be seen from Rogers Square, located a few blocks away down Grafton Street. Once inside Scotiabank Centre there is a “big-event” feel to the atmosphere. Walking around the concourse provides a variety of visual experiences. The side concourses are closed off from viewing the game; however, walk to the ends of the arena and suddenly you’re one with the crowd and have a full view of game action. The lower seating bowl offers great viewing angles to catch all the plays, without fans in front of you obstructing your view. The playing field is surrounded by 16 to 22 rows of seats; however, legroom is an issue no matter where you sit. If you consider yourself of average height or taller, avoid rows 19 thru 22. These rows were not part of the original arena design, but instead were squeezed in as part of a renovation years ago. This renovation closed off a walkway inside the seating bowl, resulting in more congestion on the concourse. Also, be aware of some obstructed view seats in sections 13 thru 17 (rows Q through S) due to metal posts supporting the skyboxes. An upper level is located on both sides of the playing field, consisting of 21 rows with decent viewing angles in the lower rows. Avoid seats next to the aisle in rows A thru G since the railing located at the bottom of the aisle may be right at your eye level. Also, stay clear of the top 16 rows (rows H thru W); hanging skyboxes diminish the game atmosphere and the scoreboard/video board over centre ice is not visible. A scoreboard and video board is projected on the backside of the skyboxes, but the acoustics are awkward and you feel distant from the action. Over forty skyboxes are located in a horseshoe style around the field of play. Handicap seating is available nearly all the way around the seating bowl at the concourse level. New seats were added as part of the 2015 renovations. They are larger, padded, comfortable, and are equipped with cup holders. The four-sided scoreboard hanging from the rafters is new as of 2019. This crisp, clear jumbotron is a welcome improvement and accentuates the atmosphere as exciting graphics are displayed after a big play. Scoreboard at Scotiabank Centre, Photo by Greg Johnston, Stadium Journey The Thunderbirds have done a fantastic job celebrating the roots and culture of the Maritime region, not just through their name and logo, but also during the pre-game ceremony. Prior to the Thunderbirds taking the field, a high-tech video production introduces the players and creates a sense of what’s to come. Afterwards, bagpipers play and march from the concourse to the field where traditional Scottish dancers represent and help celebrate the Scottish roots of Nova Scotia. In-game promotions and entertainment keep you involved during breaks in the action. Free programs with information regarding both teams’ players and records are available on the concourse. The Thunderbirds’ dance team performs a few times prior to the game and during game breaks.The Thunderbird mascot, Bolt, roams the arena stopping for selfies and other fan interactions along the way. Arena acoustics are fairly good, unless you are seated in the back rows of the upper level. Upbeat music is played seemingly non-stop during play which is an NLL staple. The music helps keep the crowd’s energy up. The fans especially seem to respond well with loud rhythmic clapping whenever a classic Maritime song like “Barrett’s Privateers” (by Stan Rogers) plays over the loudspeaker. Neighborhood 5 Halifax has a rich history to learn and explore. As stated by the public address announcer prior to a game, Halifax lies on Indigenous lands belonging to the Mi’kmaq before the British settlers arrived and developed the area. For a few hundred years, Halifax was an important British army and navy base to help protect against potential French invaders. Halifax Harbour is naturally protected from the ocean, and is the second largest natural harbour in the world. Thousands of immigrants came to Halifax to find work in the fishing, shipping, and trading industry created by the protected harbour. In 1912, Halifax played an important role in rescue efforts following the sinking of the Titanic. In 1917, the city suffered a tragic event itself, when two ships collided in the harbour. One of those ships was full of ammunition, causing an enormous explosion that killed 2,000 people and destroyed a large part of the city. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to learn about these fascinating events. Downtown Halifax is located on a steep hill, which slopes from the Halifax Harbour to Citadel Hill. The arena is integrated into the hill, which makes the arena look smaller from the outside than it actually is. Downtown Halifax is evolving into a popular destination again after years of dormant construction throughout the 1990’s and early 2000’s. If you want to grab a drink and a bite before or after the game, Argyle Street is a great area full of options with Antojo, Pint Public House & Gahan Restaurant all excellent choices. For a relaxed atmosphere during your stay, take a walk on the boardwalk along the Halifax Harbour; see some historic architecture, high-end restaurants, and the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market. All of these destinations are within a 5-15 minute walk from the arena, making it a great location for the season ticket holder or a tourist. The Hampton Inn by Hilton and the Prince George Hotel are both located less than a block away from the arena. Plenty of other hotel options are scattered around the city depending on your desired price range and location. Fans 3 The Thunderbirds first game in Halifax came less than a year after the relocation announcement in early 2019. So naturally the franchise needed to work hard to attract and develop a loyal local fan base. In such a short time, it’s obvious the marketing folks have done a great job promoting the sport and franchise to a wide range of demographics. Every home game has a promotional theme including First Nations Night, University Student Night, a Salute to Veterans Night, among others. Through the first few home games, Thunderbirds attendance has averaged 6,500 spectators. Though some markets draw over 10,000 patrons per game, Halifax attendance ranks a respectable 8th out of the 13 franchises. Thunderbirds attract fans of all ages, from young families, young adults on a date, and long-time friends. Fans tend to be pretty quiet and respectful outside of a home goal or a big hit. The crowd (with help from the public address announcer) could easily create some unique traditions or chants during the game, and there’s little doubt the scores have potential to improve as the loyal fan base continues to develop. Access 4 Direct flights to Halifax are available from most major Canadian cities, and a few American cities in the Eastern Time Zone. Though Halifax looks close to the United States on maps, a drive from Portland, Maine would take around ten hours due to a lack of a direct route. However, the drive is beautiful no matter where you are coming from. When you arrive downtown, you are only minutes from the arena. It is easy to get there by foot or car. Two parking garages are within a block of Scotiabank Centre for $8, and metered parking is free on weekends and after six pm on weekdays. Metro Transit is another great way to get to the game. Several routes from all over the municipality converge into downtown for $2.75. Halifax is known for wet and icy winter weather conditions. Fortunately pedestrians can stay dry and not risk slipping on ice by using the “Halifax Link” indoor path system. See ​ Halifax Link’s map here . Though there is not a dedicated main entrance, the most popular entrance is on the low (east) side of the arena. Stairs or ramps take you into an atrium where the Box Office, Will Call, and entrance to the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame are located. However, prepare for a stair-hike if you enter the arena from this atrium. The entrances along Brunswick Street may be easier and less congested if you already have your ticket. The easiest wheelchair accessible entrance is from the Brunswick and Duke Street corner where the doors are level with the concourse. Once doors open, access around the arena is simple and straightforward. The concourse is a continuous 360 degrees around the field on an even level. Finding your seat should not be difficult, as plenty of helpful signs point you to the sections. The east side of the arena is open, wide and grand. Part of it was an alleyway that used to separate the arena and the former convention centre. This additional concourse space has a relaxed feel with tables to stand at and enjoy your drink and/or meal. Restrooms are clean and fairly large due to a 2015 renovation. Some restrooms are located on another level of the arena, so watch for signs. Return on Investment 3 Tickets can be purchased at the box office inside Scotiabank Centre or online through the team website. Ticket prices are more expensive than Halifax residents are used to for other local sports teams, and the “best seats” appear to be slightly higher than other NLL franchises in similar markets. An adult seat ranges from $28-$81 depending on your seat location preference. University student tickets range from $17.25-$23. Children 12 and under are a flat rate $23. And accessible seating is a flat $11.50 per ticket. Tickets for an applicable promotional night can save you around 50% on tickets. Purchasing group tickets saves money and includes incentives like field admission prior to the game. Other ticket buying options include discounts for fundraiser nights, senior citizens discount games, two-game rivalry pacts, season tickets, and “family section” tickets, which is a family season ticket in a dedicated area close to washrooms. Extras 2 An extra point for the incredible job the franchise does recognizing and celebrating the many historical and cultural aspects the Halifax region represents. Another for the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame. The entrance is through the atrium, and admission is free with a game ticket. The Sidney Crosby exhibit is a must see.” Final Thoughts Indoor lacrosse is one of the most high intensity and thrilling sports you can watch. The game has a long history, as it was first introduced by the First Nations and now is the official summer sport of Canada. For fans who have yet to witness an NLL game live, it’s well worth spending an evening with loved ones or great friends to take in the excitement. Hopefully the Thunderbird franchise will continue to develop fan experience to maintain and build the local fan base.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Shaw Field 3700 O Street NW Washington, DC 20007 Georgetown Hoyas website Shaw Field website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 1,625 Hoya Soccer at Shaw Shaw Field, formerly known as North Kehoe Field, is the home to the Georgetown Hoyas men’s and women’s soccer teams. Although it opened in 1996, it was only used for practice for the first five years of its existence. In 2001, the Hoyas began playing their games there as well. Shaw Field underwent significant renovations in 2012, including a new scoreboard and an updated seating area with chair backs. Georgetown’s school colors, blue and gray, date back to just after the Civil War, when Union blue and Confederate gray were chosen in an effort to unify both the school, which had students who had fought on both sides, and the nation as a whole. Food & Beverage 3 There is a small tent at one end of the concourse that serves your basic concessions. Those looking for a main course can buy hot dogs ($3), nachos ($5), or hamburgers ($5, with cheese optional at no additional cost.) Snacks include popcorn ($4), pretzels ($3), chips ($1), and candy ($2-$3.) Lemonade and Powerade (listed on the sign as Gatorade) are $4 each, while bottled water and soda are $2 each. Credit cards and cash are accepted. Concession Tent at Shaw Field, Photo by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 All seats at Shaw Field are chair backs bolted onto bleachers, and all of them are on the same side of the stadium. Seating is general admission, so be sure to arrive early if you want to stake out your choice of seats. There is a scoreboard in the corner of the field which also shows the number of shots each team has taken so far. The Hoyas have previously held unusual promotions at soccer games such as Millennial Day, where the first 500 fans in attendance (basically anyone who arrived on time) received participation trophies and no verbal communication was permitted in the “Millennial Communication Section,” only texting. However, these have been the exception rather than the rule, and usually there is not much going on other than the game itself. Part of this is due to the nature of soccer, with no interruptions, but there is also no halftime entertainment or other things going on like you would see at some places. However, considering this is college soccer we’re talking about, not basketball or football, this is about what you’d expect. It would be nice to see the team do more of these unusual promotions, or at least some sort of regular promotions to improve the atmosphere, but for now, they’re few and far between. Neighborhood 5 Shaw Field is located in the middle of the Georgetown campus, and you’ll probably have to head off campus to really do anything. However, the Georgetown neighborhood (which lends its name to the school, not the other way around) is one of the best in D.C. There are numerous restaurants ranging from casual sandwich shop Booeymonger’s to luxurious upscale restaurants such as 1789, and everything in between. All of this is located just a short walk or drive away from the University. If you’re willing to head downtown to the National Mall area, the District has so much more to offer, and the best part is that most of it is free. Whether it’s taking in the sights and monuments on the Mall itself, or visiting one of the many museums such as the various Smithsonians, there’s something for everyone. All of the government-run attractions are free, but some of the private ones are not. Just keep in mind if you wish to tour the White House or Capitol, you will need to book in advance. Fans 3 Although college soccer really isn’t all that popular in most of the country, the Hoyas manage to draw a decent crowd to Shaw Field, consisting of everyone from longtime Hoya supporters to families with young children. The place rarely comes close to filling up, but it won’t be deserted, either. There is a small student presence at most games, and they will typically stand behind the goal. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to get too involved. Fans can get loud and involved at times, but at other moments it will be dead silent here. Small Student Section at Shaw Field, Photo by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Access 3 Parking for Shaw Field is available in the Southwest Garage, just past the entrance gates to campus. Parking is free on weekends but is a pricey $5/hour on weekdays. Once you exit the garage, you will need to walk up a large hill and several flights of steps to get to the stadium. The good news is that once you’re in the stadium, you should have no problem moving around. There are no permanent restrooms at Shaw Field, just a few port-a-potties outside it. Return on Investment 2 Tickets are $10 for adults, or $5 for youth and military. This is a bit on the high end for college soccer, and admission is even free at many places. How much you pay for parking will vary widely depending on when you visit, so if possible, come on a weekend or university holiday to maximize your value. Extras 2 There are free programs and roster cards available at the entrance. The programs are quite impressive for college soccer. Shaw Field is also perhaps the only sporting venue in the world where you can experience a helicopter delay. The helipad for Georgetown MedStar Hospital is located directly behind the goal, and for safety reasons, the game must be delayed, and that side of the field cleared, whenever a medical helicopter is arriving. Final Thoughts College soccer isn’t as popular in most of the country as other sports like basketball or football. However, Shaw Field is a nice place to take in a college soccer game, and the crowds are decent most games given the size of the stadium. While it would be nice if ticket prices could come down a little bit, a trip here is still a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Shields Field 1300 East Washington Center Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Fort Wayne FC website Shields Field website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 3,200 Protecting the Fort and Lower Level Soccer Ft. Wayne FC operates in the Great Lakes Division of USL League Two, the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid. The club plays its home matches at Shields Field at Bishop Dwenger High School. The stadium has a capacity of 3,200 spectators for home matches. The club was founded by a group of eight local businessmen looking to provide a stepping stone for young, talented players in the area. FWFC was to have begun operations in 2020 but was delayed a season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The club debuted in front of 2,700 people for its first match and later drew over 3,400 for an international friendly against Chivas U20. The organization hopes to break ground on its own 7,500 soccer-specific stadium and have it operating by 2024. It will also include the plan to jump up the USL League One. The eight-man ownership group includes local soccer icon DaMarcus Beasley who played a 20-year professional career in the US and internationally and made 126 appearances for the US Men’s National Team. Food & Beverage 3 All concession items require fans to purchase tickets at a dollar each. The stadium will not accept either cash or credit cards. The decision was to have lines and services move more efficiently at matches. There are two areas for beverages sales at the stadium, and there is more than enough staff on hand to make sure that your order is expedited efficiently and quickly. Fans do not have to wait long in lines for food and beverages. Items at the game include brats, hot dogs, and kettle chips from 2 to 5 tickets. Local 800 Degrees Wood Fired Pizza offers slices that cost 5 tickets. Beer options include Bud, Bud Light, Modelo Especial, and Bud Light Seltzer for 5 or 6 tickets. Landing Beer Company items are 7 tickets, and wines are 5 tickets. Pepsi products cost 3 tickets for bottled sodas and water. Atmosphere 4 There is quite an impressive atmosphere for this level of soccer, and nice to see such an exuberant amount of people at the game. When attracting well over 1,000 people to a fourth division soccer match, it’s hard not to notice everything from the cheering, staff interaction, and the little things that sometimes get overlooked at this level in other cities. The high school football field is spruced up nicely for matches, and much of the school’s logos and colors have been replaced with FWFC banners and signage. You never feel that the club is relegated to second-class citizens at the venue, which features a nice entrance into the main grandstand. The club’s colors and the crest are everywhere from flags, merchandise tents, banners on the press box, and international and homemade flags hanging over the railing. The supporters’ group, Three Rivers Regiment, can be found cheering on the team, waving flags, and banging the posts onto the aluminum bleachers. A small group plays the drums throughout the game and lets off a little smoke after a home goal. Players are introduced through an inflatable tunnel with music as they make their way to the center field. They are accompanied by local area youth soccer players and remain there until after the National Anthem has concluded. The crowd waits for kickoff, and the next 45 minutes are focused on the action on the field. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is 1.6 miles north of the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, and depending on when you are in town, can also enjoy either a Ft. Wayne Komets hockey or Ft. Wayne Mad Ants basketball game. The stadium is also near two main intersections and close to interstate exits. Shield Field is near an abundance of chain restaurants, retail outlets, and berries lodging options. You could want almost everything within a couple of miles from the building, including coney dogs, barbecue, craft beer, and Tim Horton’s coffee. Mister Coney has been a mainstay for over 50 years and offers their take on the coney dog that is a bit meatier in texture than what you would find downtown. Mission BBQ is a Maryland-based chain but provides an array of smoked meats and 8 varieties of barbecue, with portions of their proceeds going back to first responders. 2Tom’s Brewing Company has a range of beers and offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for games of all ages. Glenbrook Square Mall is one of the largest in the area and is surrounded by familiar chain restaurants and shops. Tim Horton’s has a location here featuring its coffee that is widely consumed up north in Canada. You can also make a trip downtown for a Ft. Wayne TinCaps game at Parkview Field during the summer months. Fans 4 Soccer fans have been quite loyal to the club this season. The attendance figures for regular-season matches are near or well over 1,000 people a game. A friendly against Chivas U20 attracted 3,600 people during its inaugural season. Even on a rainy and overcast day, an impressive crowd was out to support the club at its last home game of the season. Access 4 The stadium is at the corner of East Washington Center Road and North Clinton Street. The field is accessible and a little over a mile from Exit 312 (Coldwater Road) off of I-69. There is plenty of parking for matches that include police assistance exiting after the game. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket to a match is $10 a person and $5 for children. There is a $5 charge for cars, something uncommon at this level of soccer. Food prices cost anywhere between $2 to $5, and alcoholic drinks will set you back anywhere from $5 to $7–buckets of beer are 20 tickets. There is a selection of shirts and jerseys; t-shirts cost $19.99, and home and away jerseys are $56.99. All game day programs are free, and fans receive a free scarf while supplies last upon entering the stadium. . Extras 3 The club earns a point for its game-day atmosphere. A large group of volunteers makes sure the fan experience runs smoothly from fast lines at the concession stands, customer service questions, and proper setup for matches. A second point for a nice collection of team merchandise that is not that expensive. A final point for creating a vibrant atmosphere for lower-division soccer in the United States. Final Thoughts I did not know what to expect from a Ft. Wayne FC match, but I was pleasantly surprised by the crowd size, game-day operations, and professionalism of the club. Soccer at this level is a mix of bad and I have had my share of experiences the past 25 plus years; it is usually not operated like this and at times is below a middle school football game. For that, it made a fan out of me and an experience I truly treasured. I think we will be seeing some great things from this club in the coming years. Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and Instagram .

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Silver Spurs Arena 1875 Silver Spur Ln Kissimmee, FL 34744 Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 8,000 Indoor Soccer Fever For a city like Orlando, attracting sports fans to games is something of a hassle. You have to compete with the constant flow of events, conventions, concerts, and the ever-present theme park industry for attention. So for indoor soccer to arrive in the Central Florida area just south of the city in Kissimmee, there had to be some interest. The success and fervor around Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride is very well known. However, would fans flock to Silver Spurs Arena for the indoor version of the sport? Opening night for the Orlando SeaWolves brought nearly 2,500 fans to the 8,000-seat facility. Subsequent games have seen crowds of approximately 1,500 fans per game. Somewhat of a hidden gem, the Orlando SeaWolves have the foundation for another successful soccer franchise in Central Florida, and the experience for fans at games reflects that potential. Food & Beverage 3 Silver Spurs Arena offers a few different food options at their concessions stands. For drinks, beer and alcohol prices run anywhere from $6 to $14. Soda, water, Gatorade, and coffee all run $3. Main dishes include chicken tenders with fries ($9), cheeseburgers with fries ($9), hot dogs ($4), or turkey wraps ($9). A side of fries by themselves costs $5. Other sides and smaller dishes include popcorn or nachos for $4, a pretzel for $5, chips for $2, and candy for $3. While nothing really stands out here above your average stadium concessions options, prices are relatively fair, and everything is served hot and with a smile from the friendly staff on site. Atmosphere 3 Silver Spurs Arena isn’t exactly one that is chock full of history, having only been in existence since the middle of the last decade, nor does it feature sports memorabilia from historic seasons past. That said, it does feel cozy, and the sound flow means loud crowd cheering reverberates well throughout. So while the attendance may only be 1,500, it can sure feel like a lot more are there. The supporters section in the end zone also has all the hallmarks of a traditional soccer supporters group. A modest sign showcasing their logo, fans playing instruments and singing various chants throughout the game, and even smoke whenever a goal is scored are all present. The “Wolf Pack” surely makes game day fun, keeping the feeling of a traditional soccer game experience well alive indoors. Neighborhood 3 The fact that you’re not far from Orlando proper means you aren’t far from plenty of entertainment. However, right around the arena itself, one will find limited food and shopping options. Rodeo Diner and Chicken Spot are located right next to McDonald’s and Denny’s along US-192, the main road outside the arena. For lodging, Quality Inn & Suites Heritage Park and Travelodge by Wyndham Kissimmee East are your two best options. For seeing the sights, Walt Disney World Resort is only 15 minutes away, while NASA and Cape Canaveral are just an hour east near Cocoa Beach. Fans 3 The crowds may not fill in like other professional sports in Orlando, but that is to be expected with a brand-new franchise. The arena also is away from the city center, meaning there isn’t a fan march from downtown like those seen at other pro soccer events. That said, the fans who do go to Orlando SeaWolves games are extremely passionate and are often fans of the sport itself rather than just casual fans. They’re also loud, which makes for a great experience on game day. When goals are scored, the fans erupt with cheers that make it feel like a packed arena. Hopefully, with continued success and exposure will come the bigger crowds that central Florida is known for when it comes to soccer. Access 4 To get to Silver Spurs Arena, a simple drive south on I-4 will take you to exit 244. From there, a turn to the west on US-192 will lead you right to Osceola Heritage Park where Silver Spurs Arena is located. Parking is plentiful on site and costs $10, cash only. Signs are also plentiful on site to help direct you once you get on property, as there are several different venues located at Osceola Heritage Park, including Osceola County Stadium, home of the Florida Fire Frogs. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices for Orlando SeaWolves games range from $12 in the end zone and supporters section to $30 on the sidelines. Adding in $10 for parking, an Orlando SeaWolves game is much less expensive than other major sporting events in the greater Orlando area. The excitement of indoor soccer is also well worth the price of admission. Extras 4 Silver Spurs Arena’s main entrance features a pop-up team store where fans can pick up some SeaWolves Swag before and during the game, and there are also some giveaways during the game. During breaks in between quarters, fans are selected from the stands to participate in games on the field of play for entertainment. There are also various vendors set up in the main lobby and along the upper concourse. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for an evening of sports in Central Florida but don’t want to fight downtown traffic or pay the high ticket prices of other pro teams, the Orlando SeaWolves are a perfect choice. This brand-new franchise is growing in a market that is soccer-crazed. The excitement of indoor soccer is also something that is growing, with large crowds across the league marking a growth in the sport. For sure, the Orlando SeaWolves are a team to be seen in person, and indoor soccer a sport to be experienced the next time you’re in Central Florida.