Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 New England Sports Village 1395A Commerce Way Attleboro, MA 02703 Johnson & Wales Wildcats hockey website New England Sports Village website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 1,000 Johnson and Wales Hockey Johnson and Wales University is a private university with its main campus in downtown Providence, RI. Founded in 1914 by Gertrude Johnson and Mary Wales as a business school, JWU has a total enrollment of over 7,000 students spread out over its four campuses. Today the school is best known for its culinary arts and hospitality programs. Several celebrity chefs, including Emeril Lagasse and Aaron Sanchez, are alumni of JWU. New England Sports Village is a community ice center containing two full-sized NHL rinks, a ¾ sized “studio rink” and a goalie pad. The hockey rinks at New England Sports Village were planned to be the first piece in a larger project that was to eventually contain facilities for soccer, tennis, and swimming in addition to a hotel and field house. However, this additional development has yet to materialize, and the owners of the complex filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2021 to stave off a foreclosure auction. Varsity hockey has been played at Johnson & Wales University since 1997. The team competes in the New England Hockey Conference, a Division Three hockey-only conference featuring teams from New England and New York. The Wildcats have yet to qualify for the national tournament. Food & Beverage 2 The Blue Line Café, located in the main lobby, offers a basic menu for visiting Wildcats fans who need a snack. Hot dogs, breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and snacks can be purchased here. If your timing is right, you may find pizza slices, assorted sandwiches, or chicken tenders available. The prices are cheap and the quality is decent. Should the café be closed during your visit, there are several vending machines in the lobby. Pepsi products are featured at NESV. Coffee and hot chocolate are popular items in the chilly complex. Fans are welcome to bring in their snacks if they wish. Atmosphere 1 As you might expect in a simple community rink like the NESV, there’s not a lot to the game day presentation. The staff here does the best with the limited tools at their disposal, but are limited by a poor speaker system, which makes PA announcements almost unintelligible. A small scoreboard hangs at center ice, which displays basic game information. With youth hockey games going on at the other rink, you’ll be sure to find lots of kids running around the facility, giving the place a certain energy. One of the best things about seeing a game at a small rink like the NESV is that you can hear the sounds of the game. You can hear coaches shouting instructions to their players, the officials making their calls, and the players chirping at each other. It’s very enjoyable for serious hockey fans. Neighborhood 2 The New England Sports Village is located in a suburban neighborhood with nothing of interest in the immediate vicinity. Fans looking for a bite to eat can head to nearby Route 1, the primary business district in Attleboro, where multiple shopping and dining options can be found. Most of the options here are national chains. The local outpost of 99 Restaurant or Miller’s Roast Beef should suit your needs. If you are looking for fine dining, head to Providence, which is known as one of the better mid-sized cities in the country for dining options. Fans looking for nearby lodging will find several options along this same stretch of Route One, including a Best Western, a Holiday Inn Express, and a Hampton Inn. If visiting during the holiday season, a trip to LaSalette Shrine is a must. The facility is decked out in lights and is a popular local destination during the holidays. Fans 1 At Stadium Journey we often use the term “friends and family” to describe smaller crowds. A JWU hockey crowd certainly fits this description. Stadium Journey attended a game on a Saturday night, and a crowd of under 100 fans were in attendance. On the plus side, you know that virtually everyone in attendance will have a personal connection with the athletes down on the ice and will be very knowledgeable and enthusiastic in their support. Since the NESV is so far from campus, you won’t find many students here. With the Wildcats’ schedule featuring mostly local teams, you’ll find a good turnout from visiting team fans as well. Access 4 The New England Sports Village is located in Attleboro, MA, a Providence suburb located about 12 miles from the Johnson & Wales campus. The facility is located just off Interstate 95, making access to and from the facility easy. The parking lot and the main entrance are located at the rear of the building as you approach from Commerce Way. The Wildcats usually play in the “Premier Rink,” which is straight ahead as you enter the building. Since they are not the primary tenants at the NESV, their games may occasionally be shifted over to the secondary rink. Seating consists of metal bleachers without backs raised about eight feet over the ice surface. Nets run the length of the rink, obstructing views from all seating areas. There is a bit of standing room available at ice level. Fans wishing to escape the cold of the rink may choose to watch the action from tables located in the lobby, which have a view of the ice. The cafeteria and restrooms are located in the main lobby. While the three ice surfaces here are in constant use, lines are not an issue and the facility is clean and attractive. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for Wildcat hockey games at the NESV, and parking in the adjacent lot is also free. Concessions are inexpensive, which all adds up to a very affordable night of entertainment for local sports fans. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for honoring local high school player A.J. Quetta by naming the premier rink for him. Quetta was a local high school player who suffered a spinal cord injury in a 2021 game at the facility. There's also an inspirational quote from Quetta on the rink's wall. "If there is a will, there is always a way, my friend." Final Thoughts It’s not unusual to see teams at this level of play utilize community rinks as their homes. While the New England Sports Village may not be the most convenient place for this downtown Providence school to be playing, it serves as a decent home for the Wildcats. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Boshamer Stadium 235 Ridge Rd Chapel Hill, NC 27599 North Carolina Tar Heels website Boshamer Stadium website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 5,000 Home Of The Tar Heels UNC baseball has been playing at the current site of Boshamer Stadium since the late 1960s. The current stadium was renovated starting in 2007 and re-opened in 2009. The stadium now has a capacity of 4,100 and can accommodate overflow crowds of 5,000. The entire stadium has chairback seating with great sightlines of the field. Food & Beverage 4 Boshamer Stadium has a good variety of food and drink options for fans attending UNC baseball games. These items include hot dogs, popcorn, nachos & cheese, peanuts, and candy. A couple of unique options include grilled cheeseburgers and Bojangles chicken boxes. Fountain Coke products are available as well as premium beer and domestic beer. Boshamer has done a good job “speeding up” the concession process as many concession locations are grab-and-go, and you pay at the end after picking up your food. The fact that the stadium is cashless also speeds up the concession process. There are also “Walk Thru” beverage options on the concourse where you grab your beverage out of the refrigerator and quickly pay afterward. This includes soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 5 Boshamer Stadium is an aesthetically pleasing stadium with an all-brick exterior façade. Once inside the stadium, there is a wide concourse that runs above the seating bowl, with all of the seating below. Above the concourse is the press box and suite level. This makes the concourse a great place to stand in the shade on hot, sunny days or protected if there is a brief shower of rain. All seats are molded chairbacks and are angled toward home plate past the dugouts. There is a large scoreboard located in left field that has the line score and video replays. Overall there is not a bad seat in the house, and Boshamer Stadium is a great place to take in a baseball game. Neighborhood 3 Boshamer Stadium is in the midst of the UNC campus near dormitories and several of the other athletic facilities including Kenan Stadium and Karen Shelton Stadium. Therefore, there are no food and lodging options within walking distance of Boshamer Stadium. If you are looking for places to eat head a couple miles to Franklin Street in downtown Chapel Hill for many options. Fans 2 Boshamer Stadium is a beautiful baseball facility. However, unless the Tar Heels are playing local rivals NC State, ECU, or Duke, the seats remain empty for most games. Many of these other games struggle to attract crowds of 50% capacity. That’s not to say that Boshamer Stadium cannot get loud when full, just don’t expect a large crowd for most games. Access 3 Access to Boshamer Stadium is fairly easy, but keep in mind that it is in the middle of campus so you have to navigate narrow campus roads to the stadium. For most games, parking is available for a small fee at the Ram’s Head Parking Deck, which is a five-minute walk from the stadium down Ridge Road. If that deck is full, you will be forced to the Bowles Lot near the Dean Smith Center, where parking should be plentiful, but it is a 10-15 minute walk. Once inside the stadium, access around is easy as a large concourse is above the seating bowl. This is where the concession stands are located, as well as restrooms, and handicapped areas. If you are sitting on the third base side, the concourse does not extend above the seats. There is just a small walkway that leads from the main concourse to those seats. Therefore, the concessions and restrooms are located underneath the seating. Return on Investment 5 UNC baseball ticket prices are on the low end for Power Five major college baseball. Single-game tickets in the main grandstand (dugout to dugout) are $10, while seating past the dugouts is only $8. This is very good for this level of baseball. The price to park is minimal or free depending on the game, and concessions are on par with many other college baseball stadiums. Therefore, UNC baseball is a very affordable sporting event for the entire family. Extras 2 An extra point for the UNC baseball museum on the third base concourse. It is a climate-controlled room that overlooks the field that shows Tar Heel players in the MLB, and memorabilia from trips to the College World Series in Omaha. A second extra point to the picnic tables down the first base line and the many food and drink rails located around the concourse Final Thoughts While UNC has made several trips to the College World Series, it is often not thought of as a blue blood in college baseball. However, it has been a consistent Top 25 team for many years. Boshamer Stadium is a beautiful, top-notch college baseball stadium. While is it not one of the larger college ballparks and is not known for its rabid crowd or fan support, it is one of the nicest college ballparks that you will visit. One will not leave disappointed in the facility with a visit to Boshamer Stadium.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Gillette Stadium 1 Patriot Place Foxborough, MA 02305 Army-Navy Game website Gillette Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 65,878 Real Patriots at Patriots Place The Army-Navy Game marks the end of the college football regular season and is one of the oldest rivalries in the nation. This rivalry was first played in 1890, with the 2023 game marking its 124th edition. Traditionally played at neutral sites, this year’s game marked its first visit to New England and only third trip outside the mid-Atlantic region. In 2002 Gillette Stadium, a $325 million privately funded stadium opened as the new home for the NFL's New England Patriots. The team immediately began to make the area not only a football venue, but an entertainment, dining, and shopping destination. In 2006 construction began on Patriot Place, an open-air shopping center located adjacent to the stadium. Patriot Place has proven to be so successful that imitators have begun to sprout up at stadiums around the country, and have become almost a standard feature in new stadium designs. Food & Beverage 4 With an active tailgating scene and dozens of dining choices located just steps from Gillette Stadium’s front door, you may not expect much from the facility’s concessions. While Gillette Stadium may come up short on signature food items and high-end options, you will be satisfied with the choices available here should you choose to eat inside during the game. Stands are located around the outer edge of the Gillette Stadium concourse, organized by the types of foods they offer. You may have to do a little searching to find what you want. All the stadium basics are covered, with stands that sell pizza, burgers, dogs and sausages, chicken tenders, and BBQ ringing the field. Portable carts selling drinks and snack foods line the inner edge of the concourses. Pepsi products are featured at Gillette Stadium. As you may expect, the beer game is strong here, with national brands lining the menu boards alongside dozens of local craft favorites. For the most extensive selection of local beers, check out the Taproom or Draft Kings Lounge. A complete guide to Gillette Stadium’s concessions can be found here. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere at an Army-Navy Game is unique among all college football games. The spectacle of the day usually outweighs the excitement of the game itself. The activities that surround the game are more than enough to keep even the most casual fan interested and involved. The parking lots surrounding Gillette Stadium open up a full six hours before the game, giving fans plenty of time to tailgate or explore the shops of Patriot Place. In 2023 a FanFest was going on in the north entrance plaza to Gillette Stadium, filled with activities, games, swag, and even the filming of College Game Day. Of course, watching the Cadets and Midshipmen get into formation and march into the stadium is a highlight of the day and are not to be missed. Once inside Gillette Stadium, the atmosphere is dominated by the facility’s new scoreboard, which is the largest outdoor scoreboard in North America. Videos, replays, crowd cams, and more are played throughout the afternoon, keeping energy levels up and engagement high. The march of the middies and cadets into the stadium, the paratroopers, and the flyovers make this one of the best experiences in all of college football. The student sections and bands compete throughout the game and can be more entertaining than the game itself at times. Neighborhood 5 Gillette Stadium sits on what was once a lonely stretch of Route One containing only a harness racing track and a trailer park. That started to change in 2007 when the Kraft Group began construction of Patriot Place, an open-air shopping center located mostly on the site of the old Schaefer Stadium. Patriot Place was constructed piecemeal and has grown to now include, among other things, a four-star hotel, entertainment complex, and outpatient health center. Fans visiting Patriot Place can choose between numerous eateries ranging from casual dining to fine fare. Options vary from brew pubs to fancy steakhouses. Fans looking for entertainment options before or after a Patriots game can visit Splitsville Bowling Alley, Cinema de Lux, explore the on-site nature trail and cranberry bog, or take in some live music at Showcase Live! Fans looking to stay on-site will find Hilton Garden Inn and Renaissance Hotel steps from the stadium. Visit the Patriot Place website for more information. Fans 5 You can expect the stadium to be packed, no matter where the game is being held and no matter what the weather. Virtually every person in the stands has a rooting interest in the game, and chants of “Go Army!” and “Go Navy!” ring through the stadium throughout the afternoon. The student sections are featured on the jumbotron frequently to great reactions, no matter which side. Despite the high emotions and intensity of the rivalry, there is a respectful tone to the cheers. After all, we’re all on the same team here, aren’t we? Access 3 Gillette Stadium is located in the small town of Foxborough, MA (alternatively spelled Foxboro). Foxboro has a population of almost 19,000 residents and is situated about halfway between Boston and Providence, RI at the intersection of Interstates 95 and 495. This location was picked for the original Schaefer Stadium due to its apparent convenience, but access has always been an issue at Patriots games. Gillette Stadium is located on Route One, a busy four-lane road. It is the only way into and out of the stadium complex. As you might imagine, traffic is extremely heavy on game days and can back up for miles in both directions. The Patriots constantly tweak their systems to try and get visitors moving as quickly as possible, but no plan seems to consistently work. These issues are exacerbated at the Army-Navy Game, as thousands of fans who are not familiar with the processes in place at Foxboro descend on Gillette Stadium. Fans who have not visited Gillette in a while will notice changes in the parking system. The lots closest to the stadium are now reserved for prepaid parking only. Fans arriving on game day will park on the opposite side of Route One, a bit of a walk from the facility. The perk to parking further away is that these lots are now free of charge. A complete guide to Gillette Stadium parking can be found here. Once arriving at the stadium, fans will enter through one of three gates. Concourses, while busy, are large enough to move about without issue. The renovations to the north end of the stadium have improved flow greatly. Three sets of ramps lead to the upper levels of the stadium. There is standing room available at certain points on all levels of the facility. Handicapped seating is plentiful. Fans should have no issues moving about the facility. The concourse is filled with concession stands, both permanent and portable. Lines can be long, particularly at halftime. Restrooms are plentiful and clean considering their busy usage. Just time your visits wisely. Be aware that Gillette Stadium is a cashless facility with a fairly aggressive clear bag policy. What can and cannot be brought into the stadium is advertised in all parking lots. Pay attention and save yourself a long walk back to your car. Any veteran fan of the Patriots will tell you that the key to avoiding the legendary Gillette traffic is to arrive early and plan to stay a bit after the game. Luckily, with Patriot Place next to the stadium and the excellent tailgating scene, this is not the worst plan. Return on Investment 4 Going to the Army-Navy game isn’t cheap, but somehow you won’t leave the stadium feeling gouged. Tickets sold through the Army and Navy websites go fast. According to the sites, upper-level seats are sold for $135-$150 and lower-level seats cost $200-$215. Prices were much higher than those on the secondary market. General parking on the opposite side of Route One is included in the ticket price for 2023. The private lots that line Route One were charging between $30-$60 for parking. Since the game is held in an NFL stadium, expect to pay NFL prices for concessions. Extras 5 It would be tempting to award the full score in this category simply for the grandeur of the game, but that would be the easy way out. There’s more than enough going on at “America’s Game” to warrant the maximum score here. As mentioned before, don’t miss the March of the Cadets and Midshipmen before the game. Whether you are watching them march into the stadium or fill the gridiron in formation, it’s an emotional moment that is worth the price of admission all by itself. The fanfest, located in the north entry plaza at Gillette Stadium, features giveaways, interactive games, and of course, ESPN’s College Game Day. The pre-game flyover and paratroopers skydiving into the stadium balls are worth extra points. Finally, an extra point is awarded for bringing America’s Game to the birthplace of the American Revolution. Final Thoughts Even though neither team is a national power, the Army-Navy Game is one of the highlights on the sporting calendar every year. The players on the field are not your typical college athletes, and the pageantry of the game transcends the action on the field. It should be a bucket list item for any college football fan. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 WFCU Centre 8787 McHugh St Windsor, ON N8S 0A1 Wndsor Spitfires website WFCU Centre website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 6,500 Tragedy To Triumph The WFCU Centre is the home of the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League. The building has a seating capacity of 6,450 for hockey and was built for $71 million, opening on December 11, 2008. The new home to the Spitfires ensured that the club would remain in Windsor for the foreseeable future. The arena replaced the 84-year-old Windsor Arena that the Spitfires had called home since 1975. The new WFCU Centre was a much-needed replacement for the aging arena and resulted in the building hosting the 2017 Memorial Cup. The original Spitfires were members of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1945 to 1953 and relocated to Hamilton. The current version began operations in 1971 in the Major Junior Hockey League and was promoted to the Ontario Hockey League in 1975. In the close to 50 years in the OHL, the Spits have captured three league championships (1988, 2009, and 2010) and three Memorial Cups (2009, 2020, and 2017). The Spitfires are named after the Royal Canadian Air Force No. 417 Squadron, nicknamed “City of Windsor” squadron, who flew the Spitfire fighter planes during World War II. To many fans, they are nicknamed the Spits. Besides hockey, the building also houses the Windsor Express of the Basketball Super League, which won back-to-back championships in 2014 and 2015. The arena has hosted the World U-17 Hockey Challenge, OHL All-Star Game, Skate Canada International, and the World Cup of Curling. Food & Beverage 3 All of the concessions are available in the main concourse and above the seating bowl at one end of the arena. The featured items include hamburgers, veggie dogs, hot dogs, pizza slices, chicken tenders, and poutine. Snack items include popcorn, nachos, fries, candy, pretzels, and chips. The arena offers combo deals from $12 to $18. Pepsi products, MillerCoors, and Molson products are available for purchase during the game. A nice treat is the freshly baked mini donuts that fans can see riding through a carousel and topped with cinnamon and sugar. Atmosphere 4 The WFCU Center features an outer concourse that wraps almost entirely around the building. The arena houses the WFCU Centre Bar and the Crown Royal Club Lounge, a team pro shop, multiple concession stands, three public rinks, and a swimming pool. The Centre Bar is between gates 1 and 2 and across from sections 109 and 110. The bar offers beer, wine, and other spirits. Fans can also enjoy seat service, open views of the rink, and tabletop seats. The Crown Royal Club Lounge is exclusive to Platinum seat ticket holders, offering beer, wine, and other drinks. It houses a full menu selection and opens 2 hours before the game. Fans can enjoy couch seating and live music in the club lounge. The seating bowl offers unobstructed views of the rink, banners hang from the rafters of former players and past championships. The team has three mascots: Bomber, Spike, and Ace, who make their way throughout the concourse and skate on the ice during pre-game festivities. Neighborhood 3 The arena is near various shopping centers, restaurants, and retail stores. The Tecumseh Mall is within a few blocks, along with El Dorado Tacos, East Side Marios, Average Joe’s Sports Bar, and Windsor Pizza, home to the city’s style of pizza-Super-that features thinly sliced pepperoni, bacon, green peppers, and canned mushrooms. Downtown is about a 15-20 minute drive and close to the two border crossings into Detroit. Walkerville Brewery is recommended for craft pints in a historic building, but the last call is at 7:30 pm. Just downstairs is Funky Chow Kitchen. A few blocks south is Kildare House, The Grand Cantina, and The Twisted Apron. Depending on the weather, a walk along the riverfront is a must for all visitors. The views of the Detroit skyline, the sculpture park, and the new Gordie Howe Bridge that is under construction make for photo spots. Cesar Windsor Casino and the Canadian Aviation Museum are two other points of interest. Fans 3 During our review, it was one of those years that most Spitz fans would like to forget. However, fans lined up early before the doors opened, a few weighed flags, and many others made noise with noise-makers to add to the ambiance of the building. It was a great crowd for our visit, and one would think that the season had been going a little bit better for the hometown club. Access 4 The arena is north of downtown and the Border crossings. If crossing on a weekend night, take the bridge, the tunnel gets backed up, possibly from 19-year-old Americans taking advantage of Canada’s drinking age. The WFCU Centre is about a 15-20 minute drive north, situated in a residential/commercial district with easy access to shopping malls, regional chain restaurants, and other points of interest. There is plenty of parking adjacent to the arena for games. Once inside the building, there is one main concourse that offers fans everything they would need for the game Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket is as low as $20 and as high as $44 per game. The prices are on par with many other OHL clubs. The parking was free, at least I did not see anyone taking money, and concession prices ranged from $5.25 for a hot dog, $9,50 for a domestic beer, and $15 for a poutine burger and fries. Please keep in mind that these are all in Canadian dollars, if coming from across the border for the States, the exchange rate could be favorable, or not. Extras 3 The WFCU Centre is a premier facility in the city and for the OHL. The arena provides great views of the rink, easy access to seating, and an energetic fanbase. A Spitfires game makes for a great outing during the hockey season. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Community National Bank & Trust Stadium 3701 W. State Highway 22 Corsicana, TX 75110 Heritage Bowl website Community National Bank & Trust Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 10,001 The Heritage Bowl Founded in 1848 by the legendary Tejano hero of the Texas Revolution, José Antonio Navarro, is the north-central Texas city of Corsicana. It is home to Corsicana Independent School District, the Corsicana High School Tigers and their home, Community National Bank & Trust Stadium, and for the past six seasons, the Fun Town RV Center Heritage Bowl. This annual post-season game is one of four sanctioned bowl games for the NCAA’s Division II. It is unique in the bowl landscape in that it does not hold any conference tie-ins. Until this year’s appearance of the Emporia State Hornets (who took on the Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm), each year’s matchup was unique, with no team repeating an appearance in the game. The stadium itself, which is also home to the Navarro College Bulldogs, is one of the larger of its kind in the area and is perfectly suited to this type of game. I can say right now that I wasn’t sure what to expect when attending the Heritage Bowl. However, and I hope my review reflects this, I had a great time – read on to learn more. Food & Beverage   3 The food and drink situation at the Heritage Bowl was truly reflective of the stadium’s regular duties as a high school stadium. During the bowl game, two out of the three concession stands in the stadium are open and available to fans. These stands, one on each side of the stadium, offer up a selection of pretty standard fare – bags of chips, boxes of popcorn, and a wide selection of bottled sodas, water, and sports drinks are available. There are also hot dogs, Frito pie (delicious), and hot cocoa later in the season; this is the perfect beverage on a cold afternoon or evening in December for a football game. One selection that stands out, and one I am thankfully seeing at an increasing number of high school venues, is Chick-fil-A. I am a devoted fan of the chain and am glad to see their sandwiches, chips, and beverages pop up more and more frequently. One caveat for the Heritage Bowl is that no beer or alcohol is sold at the game. However, this is nicely balanced out by the fact that you can feed a whole family of four or five for about $25, depending on what you get. This a refreshing change of pace from most bowl games. Atmosphere   4 Before delving into this topic in detail, just some background information; Bethany, Oklahoma – home of Southern Nazarene University – is roughly 270 miles from Corsicana, Texas, while Emporia, Kansas, and the eponymous Emporia State University are roughly 500 miles away. Heading to bowl game, these long distances away were something that was on my mind, and I was sure they would impact the attendance – I could not have been more wrong. Pulling into the parking lots were scores of cars from out of state, and people were tailgating everywhere. It was great. The fans – more on them shortly – showed up for their teams and heightened the energy and excitement in the stands to levels I was not expecting. I hope it is this way for every Heritage Bowl. Inside the stadium merchandise tents are selling commemorative Heritage Bowl gear, which fans were buying in droves – there is a merchandise tent near each concessions stand. One other great feature of the stadium is on the home field side, there are a wide array of seatback chairs for fans. This is a great change of pace from the traditional bleacher seating at a lot of high school and small college venues and was much appreciated on the chilly day of this year’s Heritage Bowl. Neighborhood   3 The nearest big cities to Corsicana are Waco and Dallas; Corsicana is just on the outskirts of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, which gives the city a lot of the amenities of the area without a lot of the hassles, such as the traffic. Corsicana itself is consistently voted one of the most charming small cities in Texas – it does have a unique small-town flare, while at the same time having pretty much everything a more urban city could offer. In terms of attractions, Navarro College is home to the Pearce Museum, which houses a vast collection of art dedicated to the historic and modern American West. The museum is divided into two sections; the Civil War Gallery, which offers an interactive experience “designed to give visitors a humanistic view” of the war, and the Western Art Gallery, home to more than 250 works of art depicting or interpreting life in the West. Another attraction to keep an eye on is Schulman’s Movie Bowl Grille. As its name may imply, it is a movie theater paired up with a bowling alley, restaurant, and arcade. It is one of the most popular spots in town for locals and could be a great way to unwind after a bowl game. In terms of restaurants, I am going to offer up a slice of Texas history. When most folks in this state hear the name “Corsicana,” what almost invariably comes to mind is the Collin Street Bakery. Founded in 1896, Collin Street is renowned for its baked goods, especially its fruit cakes. Now, I know that probably doesn’t sound great, but believe me, one bite and you’ll be a believer. When it comes to lodging, as the stadium is located near the middle and high schools, there aren’t any hotels or motels within immediate walking distance. However, there are still quite a few that are within a short drive – they vary in price, but the closest are the Kingsway Inn and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Corsicana I-45. As you might expect, there are plenty of options based on your budget. Fans   4 In past seasons the Heritage Bowl has drawn anywhere between 3,500 and 4,000 fans per game. For schools at the Division II level that is a pretty good amount, especially as most of the schools who play in the game are not based in Texas. With that said, I can only anecdotally say how impressed I was with the fans at this year’s iteration of the game. I’ve already mentioned the vast number of tailgaters I saw before the game; both parking lots were virtually filled with fans, which made the game feel big. Sitting on the Emporia State side I could tell the fans were engaged and enthusiastic the entire game, while on the Crimson Storm sidelines, the fans would erupt with every big play and were fully into the game until late in the second half when the score got away from them. Regardless of the outcome, the fans were there and that made this game feel big, which is what you want out of any bowl game. Access   3 As mentioned, Dallas is probably the closest big city to Corsicana, about an hour and a half drive southeast on Interstate 45. That’s not too bad, by Texas standards, but if you want to fly in, Corsicana is an hour and 20 minutes from Dallas Love Field, and an hour and a half from DFW International Airport. There isn’t anything in the way of public transportation in Corsicana, but it is easily drivable once you’re here. At the stadium parking is ample and, best of all, free – this includes anyone there to do any tailgating. Return on Investment   4 Single-game tickets for the Heritage Bowl are a true bargain at just $10; if you’re sitting on the home team side, this entitles you to take a spot in those seat back chairs I mentioned. While the schools participating may not be household names, this is still some really good football you’re seeing. When you pair the low ticket cost with the low-cost concessions, and the free parking, the Heritage Bowl is one of the best bargains in college football. Extras   2 There isn’t much in the way of Extras at the Heritage Bowl; Southern Nazarene didn’t travel with their band or dance team, but Emporia State did bring their cheerleaders, along with the Marching Hornet Band and Golden Stingers Dance Team. Both performed during this year’s halftime festivities. What keeps the score from being lower is the trophy presentation at the end of the game. There wasn’t much production, but it was good to see the players and coaches all celebrating along with the fans. Final Thoughts Again, I was quite unsure what to expect on my first visit to the Heritage Bowl. I’ve been to quite a few of these types of games over the years, and, while each one is unique in its way, there is still one quality that defines a good bowl game. While on the small side, this game brought the excitement big time. I had a great time, it was great to see these schools in action, and Corsicana is a beautiful town. If you’re a college football fan, the Heritage Bowl will be right up your alley. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Norfolk Scope 201 E. Brambleton Ave Norfolk, VA 23510 Norfolk Admirals website Norfolk Scope website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 8,701 Scoping Out the Admirals In the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, you will find the largest concrete dome in the world, the Norfolk Scope. Although the Kingdome in Seattle surpassed it when it was built in 1976, it was demolished in 2000, putting the Scope back in the top spot. Today, the Scope is home to the Norfolk Admirals, a minor league hockey team competing in the ECHL The Admirals originally competed in the American Hockey League (AHL), the hockey equivalent of Triple-A baseball, but after that club moved to San Diego in 2015, a new Admirals franchise joined the ECHL, which is a step down from the AHL. Food & Beverage 5 Considering it is a minor league hockey arena, and an aging one at that, the Norfolk Scope has some pretty good concession options. A Mexican stand serves quesadillas, tacos, and extremely elaborate nachos, with freshly made salso in mild or spicy form available to put on top. Be warned - the spicy salsa is indeed quite spicy. Other stands serve barbecue sandwiches (pulled pork or brisket), pizza, and classics such as hot dog, burgers, and chicken tenders. Ice cream, churro bites, and funnel cake fries are available to fans with a sweet tooth. Soda (Pepsi products) and bottled water are available to drink, as is alcohol for fans of age. Prices are a bit on the high end, but it's good food so it's worth it. For instance, the nachos go for $15, but are pretty large and include not just cheese but your choice of meat, plus lettuce, tomato, onion, sour cream, cilantro, jalapenos, and fresh salsa. The more basic options will cost less. Atmosphere 3 If you walk into the seating area at the Norfolk Scope before warmups have begun, you will find the arena casked in a soft, blue glow. The full arena lights do not come on until the players come out for warmups. This creates an interesting first impression on fans arriving early. In the seating bowl, you can either walk up or down to your seat from the concourse, depending on where you are sitting. Most seats have a decent view of the ice, even the oness in higher rows. The area up against the boards is reserved for VIP and group seating, so even the front row of the seating area won't be against the glass. This will be a major disappointment for some fans. A large videoboard hangs over center ice, and two smaller ones are on the ends behind the goals. However, only the center one regularly shows game information, the others typically show ads. Right before each game, a hype video plays on the center board, starting with shots of the Norfolk naval fleet coming into the harbor, then shots of downtowon Norfolk, and finally zooming in on the Scope itself and clips of legendary Admirals moments. This tends to get the crowd fired up and in the mood for the game. The Admirals have a mascot named Salty, a dog who loves entertaining the fans before and during the game. Neighborhood 4 The Scope is located less than a mile from Downtown Norfolk, where you will find many options to eat, drink, and stay. From bars to steakhouses to Italian eateries to local favorite Ynot Pizza (which also sells its food at the arena), there is something for everyone here. There are also numerous hotels ranging from the Hilton to more budget options. If coming early or late in the season when the weather is nice, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is about 20 to 30 minutes away, although the exact travel time will depend on traffic. Fans 4 Although the Scope will rarely sell out, this is more due to its large size than the fans, who show up in good numbers to cheer on their team. Admirals fans are loud, actively involved, and not afraid to heckle the opponents or the officials. After an Admirals goal, the Scope can get extremely loud as fans rise to their feet and celebrate. During the rest of play, it can still get quite loud in here, with fans urging their team to victory, applauding after good plays, and complaining about bad calls by the referees. The heckling can get a bit tiring, but it is all in good fun and just shows the passion of the crowd. Access 4 The Scope is conveniently located right off I-264 in downtown Norfolk. There are several garages surrounding the arena which cost $5-$10 to park in, including the Scope Garage right under the arena. Season ticket holders can enter the arena at garage level, while everyone else will hve to walk up a flight of steps and use the one of the entrances at street level. Restrooms are located around the concourse and are of a sufficient size for the crowds. One important thing to keep in mind when navigating around the arena is that signage will often speak of a specific gate to use. Unlike in most sporting venues, "gate" refers not to the entrance you take to get into the arena, but to the set of doors you use to get from the concourse to the seating area. So if someone tells you to meet them outside Gate 5 (or whatever gate), you will need to get into the arena first. This also explains materials saying certain concessions and so on are outside a particular gate. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at just $19 for seats above the concourse behind the goals, and even center-ice seats will cost you no more than $39. Most seats are under $30. Unfortunately, they are sold through Ticketmaster, so expect to pay high fees on top of that. Concessions are a bit on the high end, but are good food and large portions, so it's worth it. Parking is reasonable considering the arena's downtown location. Overall, an Admirals game is a pretty good value. Extras 3 One star for the banners hanging from the rafters honoring Norfolk's accomplishments in the ECHL and AHL. A second star for the unique design of the Scope, inside and out. As mentioned above, it is the world's largest concrete dome, and the diaganol pillars oujtside create a one-of-a-kind architecture. Although alternate identiies are becoming increasingly common in minor league sports, Admirals have a unique take on it. The City Series takes place one weekend a month, and the team will adopt a special alternate identity representing one of the Seven Cities of the Hampton Roads region. When Stadium Journey visited in December, the team was playing as the Newport News Admirals, and other weekends are dedicated to the cities of Virginia Beach, Hampton, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Suffolk, plus the usual identity representing Norfolk. Although the team has not been known as the Hampton Roads Admirals for many years, it is good to see they still represent the entire region. Final Thoughts Although the Norfolk Scope is over 50 years old at this point, it is still going strong While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of newer arenas, hockey fans will definitely want to check out a Norfolk Admirals game here.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Alamodome 100 Montana St San Antonio, TX 78203 All-American Bowl website Alamodome website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 72,000 All-American Bowl – Alamodome For over 20 years the nation’s best high school football players have competed against one another in the annual All-American Bowl. The game between all-stars from the East and the West has featured some of the best players in the recent history of the game – these include Vince Young, Andrew Luck, Tim Tebow, Adrian Peterson, Odell Beckham, Jr., and Chase Young. Since 2002 – with exception of a COVID year in 2021 – the game has been held at the venerable Alamodome in downtown San Antonio. The stadium, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023, has a long tradition of hosting numerous football games over the years; it serves as the home field for the UTSA Roadrunners and is the site of the Alamo Bowl each December. Countless high school games, minor league football, and even NFL games have been played on the Alamodome’s field. While it can at times feel truly cavernous, it has proven to be a great facility for football, especially high school football; the All-American Bowl is no exception. Read on to learn what makes the game and the venue something all fans should see. Food & Beverage 3 Not all the regular concession stands at the Alamodome are open during the All-American Bowl. However, what they do have is perfectly fine for fans on game day. At numerous spots on the main concourse fans can get their fill of hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, hamburgers and fries, tacos, and bottled drinks. There are also a few spots dedicated to selling bottled domestic and imported beers; you won’t go hungry or thirsty at the Alamodome, but for this game the offerings are in the average category. Atmosphere 4 While the Alamodome basically opens up only the lower bowl for this game, and fans are there primarily to cheer on their friends and family members playing in the game (as opposed to a particular team), the atmosphere is still remarkably good for this game. It feels like a big deal, and everyone involved treats it as such. There is signage everywhere (this also extends to the downtown San Antonio area) touting the game. Local high school marching bands and cheerleaders keep the crowd engaged, and there are several game merchandise stores on the main concourse as well. But the true event that keeps the atmosphere high (and I’ll discuss it more in the Extras section) and makes this a spectacle is the player commitments – on a stage outside the north end zone, players stand in front of an array of hats with their prospective colleges’ logos. After a brief exchange, an uncommitted player will make his choice of where he will spend the next three to four years of his academic and playing career. It’s a lot of fun and just shows the caliber of players involved in the game. Neighborhood 5 I’ve written about the Alamodome in numerous reviews, and in particular why this section ranks as high as it does. There is a reason that big-time events still make their way to a facility that is now 30 years old, and it is primarily due to location. The dome is right in the heart of the Alamo City’s vibrant downtown – home to some of the area’s best hotels, restaurants, and attractions, downtown San Antonio is where most people want to be when they visit the city. The Alamodome is within walking distance of most of the mentioned best of the best sites and attractions. These include the fabled – and eponymous – Alamo shrine; the Cradle of Texas Liberty is one of the most visited sites in the country, and is currently undergoing an historic renovation and expansion. If you’re visiting the city for the game, it is a must to see the Alamo. Another site that should be high on visitors to do list is taking a stroll on the San Antonio River Walk. Built along the banks of the river that bears its name, the River Walk extends the length of downtown and beyond. Visitors can dine at top-tier restaurants, do some shopping, or stop in at dozens of spots for some libations. You should also make a point to hop a ride on one of the River Walk barges. When it comes to dining, there are numerous chains to take in, but you really need to make a point to try something local. In that vein, it doesn’t get more local than Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia. For over 75 years, the Cortez family – owners of Mi Tierra – have been the godfathers of Tex-Mex cuisine in San Antonio – this is the gold standard. Another newer spot to visit is one of my all-time favorites in the city, Schilo’s. This old-world German delicatessen is also the oldest restaurant in the city. Known for house-made root beer, made-from-scratch deli sandwiches, and the best cup/bowl of split pea soup in all of South Texas, Schilo’s will fill you up! For hotels, downtown San Antonio has scores that run the entire gamut of price ranges. However, if you want to be able to walk to the game at the Alamodome, there are several that are less than five minutes away – these include Staybridge Suites San Antonio Downtown Convention Center and City View Inn & Suites. Again, depending on what your budget is, you’ll find something suitable for you that is not too far from the stadium if you stay downtown. Fans 3 All Star games are always a little tricky to gauge, in terms of fans. As mentioned above in the Atmosphere section, the vast majority of the fans in attendance are relatives and/or friends of the 100-plus players on the two rosters, and not of any particular team. That being said, it’s still a football game, and big plays still bring the fans out of their seats. The most recent game had an announced crowd of over 23,000 and that seems accurate; it was a good crowd that stayed around for the entirety of the game, and even well afterwards to have a meet-and-greet with the players. Access 4 Fans heading to the All-American Bowl at the Alamodome won’t have a hard time getting there; it is easily one of the most recognizable landmarks across the San Antonio skyline. The dome is a 10-minute drive from the San Antonio International Airport, which offers scores of flights in and out of the city on an hourly basis. If you’re driving to the Alamodome it is located at a virtual crossroads of three major highways that ribbon the city: Interstates 10 and 35 and state highway 37/281. These are the major thoroughfares in the city and once you hop on, you can be anywhere in San Antonio in less than 30 minutes. Once on site, parking in the dome’s two open lots starts at $20 per car; however, the neighborhood surrounding the Alamodome has built a cottage industry on selling parking to events for often much less. Or, if you choose not to drive or utilize a ride-sharing service, San Antonio’s public transportation service, VIA Metropolitan Transit, offers bus service to and from the Alamodome throughout the day. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the All-American Bowl started at $25 per person. When you couple that with $20 for parking and relatively affordable concessions, this turns out to be a bargain. To get a chance to see the next Trevor Lawrence, or Reggie Bush, or Patrick Peterson at what is essentially the start of their careers, the cost to attend the All-American Bowl is truly a bargain. Extras 3 As mentioned above, the extras for the game are mainly the draw of the player commitments – this is really something to see and it truly fires up the crowd, especially when a player selects the school of fans in attendance. The other draws are the local high school marching bands and cheer squads. At the most recent game, an added attraction was the play of some flag football squads from the area during halftime; it’s fun seeing youngsters getting to enjoy a game in a venue like the Alamodome. Final Thoughts The All-American Bowl is a game unlike any other and for fans of football, it’s a treat to get the chance to see it in person. The Alamodome truly comes into its own for high school games – with basically only the sideline seats open for viewing, fans get the best sightlines of the whole field. Adding the bands and cheerleaders make it even more like a typical high school game, albeit one that is broadcast live on network television. I would definitely add this game to your bucket list if you haven’t already. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photo Courtesy of Google Some ballparks don’t die; many are just distant memory. Many have been torn down and replaced with other structures that bear little connection to the former baseball home. However, there is one ballpark still standing and posing a striking resemblance to its past glory. That former ballpark is Coble Grimes Stadium in Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania. The site is now home to the D.E. Richard Garage. It is also home to the Speedway Mart gas station, a car wash, and a truck bay on its premises. It also provides 24-hour towing and PA safety and emission testing. If you need a new tire, this is the place to be; if you are looking for a baseball game down the road to either Harrisburg or Reading. A walk around its premises, and you can see the outfield walls, the old covered grandstand, the backstop, and the general shape of the ballpark. The right field is gone, and a sea of cars now occupies the outfield, but to a trained ballpark hunter, this was once home to a baseball team. It is one that had a meteoric rise and fall right after World War II. Charlie and Coble Grimes were founders of College Hill Poultry; they were baseball fans, most notably Coble, who supplied the financial backing for the semi-professional College Hill Chix baseball club. They operated at the Lebanon High School baseball field for their first season in 1945, attracting an impressive audience. A crowd of 3,000 witnessed the first game, File Photo Lebanon Daily News The Chix averaged around 500 fans per game and revived interest in semi-professional baseball in Lebanon County. It was important enough that the two brothers decided to build their ballpark the following year. One that would be big enough to satisfy the baseball-hungry crowds proceeding the war. They found a parcel of land at the intersection of the recently constructed Route 22 and Main Street, 10 miles north of town in Fredericksburg.  The new highway merged with the old Rt. 22, creating a natural triangle. Foul balls could land on the new route and home runs over the center field, or left-field walls could land on the old Rt. 22. The privately financed stadium housed 3,500 fans and would be ready by June of 1946. The grandstand itself would be able to accommodate close to 2,000 fans. It included a press box, an announcer's booth, light towers, and concession stands underneath selling refreshments.  The local newspapers called it the “finest in the east” upon its completion. A crowd of 3,000 packed the stadium to witness a 2-0 12-inning loss to Cornwall. “Coble was a real ball nut, and he could afford it,” former site owner Dale Richard, Sr. told the Lebanon Daily News in 1990. “He built the baseball diamond out of his pocket. The Chix got players from all over the area, Lebanon, Fredericksburg, and Meckville. I’d say maybe 100 guys played here over the years.” The stadium hosted various ball games from semi-pro games to exhibition games against the House of David clubs, local area high school and college teams, and Negro League teams passing through the area to delighted fans. The first-ever Keystone Semi-State Baseball tournament was held, in which the Chix won. Opening night for the Chix in 1949, File Photo Lebanon Daily News. In 1949, the Chix joined the Class D Mid-Atlantic League and was affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Grimes added box seating closer to the field level, along with infield grass for the first time. The newly named Lebanon Chix featured an 18-year-old Ken Boyer beginning his professional career. He would win the NL MVP with the Cards in 1964. The first-ever game produced a crowd of 1,800, and the following year they were champions of the league. Unfortunately, the Chix would never play again after its championship series victory. The club announced it was withdrawing from the league in January 1951 due to military involvement in Korea and disappointing attendance during the season. The death of Coble in October was a devastating hit on the ball club – due to his financial backer of the team. Without his support, College Hill Poultry got out of the baseball business, but would still allow local clubs to play free of charge from time to time. The ballpark would become home to the Fredericksburg High School baseball team, along with a series of events that included another semi-state baseball tournament, local twilight games, Little League baseball, Lebanon Valley College baseball, and Negro League games. Wrestling, boxing, and donkey baseball would find an audience at Grimes Stadium. After the high school built a new campus and athletic field in 1958, they moved off the premises. By this time, the ballpark was renamed Norelco Stadium and is still housing local baseball leagues. That would change in 1965 when Dale E. Richards, Sr. purchased the 10-acre site and converted the baseball facility into a race track. It resulted in a few cosmetic changes that would alter the baseball pattern. The right-field wall was demolished to extend the track into the area once used as the parking lot for baseball games. The oval featured two turns, one of them where home plate once stood in front of the grandstand. Additional bleacher seating was added where the left field once stood to increase the venue’s capacity to 3,800. The ballpark when it was the Fredericksburg Speedway, File Photo Lebanon Daily News. “I guess you got to be a little bit crazy to buy something like this,” said Richard to the Lebanon Daily-News in 1990. “But the main reason I bought it is that I had property adjacent to it. I was thinking I’m going to have to live next to it the rest of my life anyways.” Richards operated the now-named Fredericksburg Speedway until 1972, before closing it down due to the track not making any money for him, despite his time and effort into renovating the building. It reopened in 1975 under new promoters but closed for good after the following racing season. The D.E. Richard Garage opened its doors in 1977, but the old grandstand would remain standing, but no longer a home for racing, but a haven for used cars and spare automobile parts. In the 1990s, a 4-bay truck and car wash and Speedy Mart grocery store opened on the site. Richards passed away in 2010, and his son Richard, Jr. would take over the business that he continues to operate today. “I’ve got people stopping quite a bit, people who went to the races, people who like baseball,” said Richard to the Lebanon Sports Buzz in 2013. “But when the younger people drive by, they have no idea what it was. I’d bet money on that.” The grandstand seats are visible and old cars line the infield, Photo from Lebanon Daily Buzz. If you visit the site you can see the 70-plus-year grandstand with new siding, but still with its concession and ticket windows intact. The first and third base sides of the building have had garage doors installed, but a look inside its interiors tells a much different story. A birdseye view of what the former ballpark looks like today. The grandstand is warped with splintered pieces of wood that are filled with used auto parts, most notably car rims. There is now tall grass and trees sprouting up through parts of the concourse, and the original protective screen is tattered, but still hanging from the ceiling of the structure. A look towards the old playing field will result in a strewn of used automobiles rusting in the sun. A new building was constructed in left field, and the old track is visible where motorcycles and stock cars once zipped at fast speeds. What is left of the outfield wall has been painted white with blue and red striping, a nice look for the old baseball palace. The lights were removed a long time ago, and only memories of baseball and racing remain at the site, but the station does offer a collection of photos from its days as a speedway. The exterior of the grandstand, Note the original concession windows, Google Docs Image The site is an anomaly since most former minor league stadiums from this era were knocked down decades ago. The Schenectady, New York, grandstand stood until 2002 as the golf course storage unit, but that might be the only other structure of its kind that existed after being used for baseball. It is an example of baseball fever that took place soon after the war in Europe and Japan ended. Many cities and towns across the country built new stadiums or renovated existing ones for the minor leagues. The College Hill Chix lasted six seasons and only used the stadium for five years; built at a unique time in the country where almost every town, large and small, built or renovated a stadium for a baseball club. Many have faded into history, but the former Grimes Stadium is a quiet history lesson to ballpark fans in the 21st century. I wish I had known about this place a little bit earlier; I definitely would have visited. Then again, what fun would that be? Harrisburg isn’t far off the beaten path, and it is just another reason to hop in the car to make a future ballpark trip. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Gregory Koch and Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Knott Arena 16300 Old Emmitsburg Rd Emmitsburg, MD 21727 Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers website Knott Arena website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 3,121 Basketball on the Mount Located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, in the Catoctin Mountains, Mount St. Mary's University is the second-oldest Catholic college in the United States. The school's athletic teams, known as the Mountaineers or simply The Mount, compete at the PNC Sports Complex across Route 15 from the main campus. In addition to fields for the baseball, softball, lacrosse, and soccer teams, the Complex is home to Knott Arena, where The Mount's basketball team plays. The Mountaineers currently compete in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) but previously competed in the Northeast Conference for many years. They won the NEC Tournament six times, most recently in 2021. Before joining Division I, they had five Final Four appearances at the Division II level, including a national championship in 1962. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand operating out of a window in the lobby by the entrance, and another, smaller one on the other side. Menu items include pizza rolls (more similar to sandwiches than the tiny microwavable pockets of the same name that you can buy at supermarkets), hot dogs, nachos, hot pretzels, and a wide variety of baked goods including fresh-baked cookies and homemade Rice Krispie treats. Bottled water and Pepsi products are also available. Prices are reasonable as nothing costs more than $6 and most of the items are much less. Beer is also available at a separate table for those of age. Atmosphere 4 One of the more unique characteristics of Knott Arena is the roof. A low, sloping roof hangs over the seating area, trapping in noise, while the roof over the court is significantly higher. Glass windows line one baseline, letting in some light from the outside. Most of the seats are wooden bleachers, although there are some reserved padded chairbacks on one side. A pep band and the Mount St. Mary's students sit in the bleachers behind one baseline, and the mascot, a costumed mountaineer, tends to hang out there as well. When they are not on the court performing, the Mount cheerleaders will usually be found in this area as well. However, before the opening tip, the cheerleaders will stand in the aisles in the seating area and bang their pom poms together until the game is underway. While this is an interesting tradition, it can obstruct the views of fans if they are sitting too close to the aisles. Fortunately, once the game gets underway, they move away quickly. There are promos on the court during some of the media timeouts and at halftime, to keep fans engaged. During other breaks, the cheerleaders will perform on the court and the pep band will play music. The pep band is small but passionate and features instruments not often seen, including an electric guitar. Neighborhood 2 Emmitsburg is a small town in Maryland just south of the Pennsylvania border, and there is nothing within walking distance of campus. If you make the short drive into town, you will find a few places to eat and stay, as well as some interesting sites such as the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and various Catholic shrines. Thurmont is a short drive away, about 10 minutes south on Route 15, and offers more options than Emmitsburg itself. However, this is a very rural area, and while it’s scenic, there isn’t a whole lot to do here. Fans 4 Mount St. Mary's draws reasonably well to their home games, and the stands are mostly full even if they don't completely sell out. As mentioned above, the shape of the roof traps the sound from the crowd and so it can get extremely loud here at times. The crowd goes wild after big plays, made baskets, and the like, and the Mount erupts into mayhem. The cheerleaders, dance team, and pep band also launch into cheers during games and help get the rest of the crowd into it. While Knott Arena may not be the largest arena in college basketball, it certainly is not quiet. Access 3 The PNC Sports Complex, including Knott Arena, is located right off US Route 15, and signs are directing you to gameday parking once you get there. Some lots are paved while others are gravel. From there, you will walk to the upper doors of Knott Arena to enter the lobby. The wooden bleachers can get uncomfortable, and the drop between rows is unusually large. While this does improve sightlines, it also makes getting up and down the bleachers rather tricky. Restrooms are available in the lobby and are of sufficient size for the crowd. There may be a short line at halftime or after the game, but otherwise, you should have no problem. Return on Investment 3 Reserved chairbacks at Knott Arena cost $20, while the wooden bleachers, which are general admission, cost $12. Youth (age 5-17) get in for $5. Discounts are sometimes available, such as a Family Four Pack to select home games, which includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four sodas, and four candy bars for just $49. The opportunity for discounts offers enhanced value, but if paying full price for tickets, it's about what you would expect for this level. Extras 3 The unique shape of the roof in Knott Arena helps trap sound and almost makes the building feel like a literal cathedral of basketball. Look for the banners on the walls honoring Mount St. Mary's basketball history, including the 1962 Division II championship. Programs are available at the entrance for $1. Final Thoughts Basketball on The Mount is well worth checking out for any fan in the area. Although it's pretty far removed from the other Division I schools in Maryland, it is still worth making the trek out to Emmitsburg for a game at Knott Arena.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 New England Sports Village 1395A Commerce Way Attleboro, MA 02703 Northeast Generals website New England Sports Village website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 1,000 Village People The Northeast Generals are a Tier II junior hockey team that competes in the North American Hockey League. The Generals have qualified for the NAHL playoffs in four of their seven seasons of play, losing in the first round each time. New England Sports Village is a community ice center containing two full-sized NHL rinks, a ¾ sized “studio rink” and a goalie pad. The hockey rinks at New England Sports Village were planned to be the first piece in a larger project that was to eventually contain facilities for soccer, tennis, and swimming in addition to a hotel and field house. However, this additional development has yet to materialize, and the owners of the complex filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2021 to stave off a foreclosure auction. On December 19, 2021, the main rink at the facility was renamed the “A.J. Quetta Rink” in honor of the local high school hockey player from Bishop Feehan High School who is recovering from a spinal cord injury suffered during a game at the facility. Food & Beverage 2 The Blue Line Café, located in the main lobby, offers a basic menu for visiting Generals fans who need a snack. Hot dogs, breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and snacks can be purchased here. If your timing is right, you may find pizza slices, assorted sandwiches, or chicken tenders available. The prices are cheap and the quality is decent. Should the café be closed during your visit, there are several vending machines in the lobby. Pepsi products are featured at NESV. Coffee and hot chocolate are popular items in the chilly complex. Fans are welcome to bring in their snacks if they wish. Atmosphere 2 As you might expect in a simple community rink like the NESV, there’s not a lot to the game day presentation. The staff here does the best with the limited tools at their disposal, but are limited by a poor speaker system, which makes PA announcements almost unintelligible. A small scoreboard hangs at center ice, which displays basic game information. With youth hockey games going on at the other rink, you’ll be sure to find kids running around the facility, giving the place a certain energy. One of the best things about seeing a game at a small rink like the NESV is that you can hear the sounds of the game. You can hear coaches shouting instructions to their players, the officials making their calls, and the players chirping at each other. It’s very enjoyable for serious hockey fans. Neighborhood 2 The New England Sports Village is located in a suburban neighborhood with nothing of interest in the immediate vicinity. Fans looking for a bite to eat can head to nearby Route 1, the primary business district in Attleboro, where multiple shopping and dining options can be found. Most of the options here are national chains. The local outpost of 99 Restaurant or Miller’s Roast Beef should suit your needs. If you are looking for fine dining, head to Providence, which is known as one of the better mid-sized cities in the country for dining options. Fans looking for nearby lodging will find several options along this same stretch of Route One, including a Best Western, a Holiday Inn Express, and a Hampton Inn. If visiting during the holiday season, a trip to LaSalette Shrine is a must. The facility is decked out in lights and is a popular local destination during the holidays. Fans 2 The crowd at a Generals game is truly a “friends and family” type of group. Virtually every person in the stands has a connection with a player on the ice. This ensures that the fans know hockey and are very involved with the action down on the ice. With the Generals’ schedule consisting almost exclusively of games against other teams from the northeast, it’s not unusual to see fans of the visitors here as well. Attendance averages in the 100-250 range. Access 4 The New England Sports Village is located in Attleboro, MA, a suburb located about 10 miles northeast of Providence, RI. The facility is located just off Interstate 95, making access to and from the facility easy. Parking and the main entrance are located at the rear of the building as you approach from Commerce Way. The Generals usually play in the “Premier Rink,” which is straight ahead as you enter the building. Seating consists of metal bleachers without backs raised about eight feet over the ice surface. Nets run the length of the rink, obstructing views from all seating areas. There is a bit of standing room available at ice level. Fans wishing to escape the cold of the rink may choose to watch the action from tables located in the lobby, which have a view of the ice. The cafeteria and restrooms are located in the main lobby. While the three ice surfaces here are in constant use, lines are not an issue and the facility is clean and attractive. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Generals games are sold as general admission for only $10 at the door on game day. Purchasing tickets in advance will save you three dollars. Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the facility. Concessions are inexpensive, which all add up to a very affordable night of entertainment for local sports fans. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for honoring local high school player A.J. Quetta by naming the premier rink for him. There's also an inspirational quote from Quetta on the rink's wall. "If there is a will, there is always a way, my friend." Final Thoughts While the New England Sports Village may not qualify as a destination location, it provides affordable, quality hockey for local fans. The North American Hockey League continues to grow and give young hockey players a place to work on their game as they look to move on to college and professional careers. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo Designed by Jason Moragas This past November a series of baseball teams and leagues introduced new branding to the market in hopes of attracting fans to their organization and a few more to purchase merchandise. Each November brings out a wave of new franchises, rebranding, and logo updates. The month has become known as Logovember. Jason Moragas tracked down every league’s new styles on his Brand Identity Checklist and joined me on a recent episode of the Ballpark Hunter . Here is what we thought were the five best logos from the offseason, so far. Rome Emperors - South Atlantic League Marc - "I am not sure there is a negative complaint about this rebrand. The former Rome Brave ball club went from a vapid-sounding name to one that evokes that of Ancient Rome. The Studio Simon-designed emperor penguin has the right smirk on his face and dons enough aesthetics to make Julius Caesar blush. The colors of red, black, and gold have been a hit across the country, with merchandise sold in all 50 states." Jason -“Even among Dan Simon’s portfolio, this is some top stuff. The penguin logo appeals to little children, and the name is not over the top. It does a great job of appealing to everyone and isolating no one. I love the use of the old Roman columns, the wardrobe, and the penguin's smirk on his face. This brand writes itself.” Ft. Collins Foxesv - Rocky Mountain Baseball League Marc- "I was worried that after the ball clubs' hiatus, they might not return; instead, they unleash an update on an old classic and come very close to beating Rome in the Logovember Wars. The two shades of orange and the teal coloring make the logo pop. If you are doing a reboot with your club, this is how to get it started." Jason- “What a statement after taking last year off. The Foxes come back with a really impressive logo in a league that does offer powerful branding. The colors of orange and teal are electric. The real fox is commanding. This logo is the only one that could truly rival the Rome Emperors.” North Platte 80s - Pecos League Marc - "Leave it to the Pecos League to find one of its teams on this list and one that came out of the blue. The club isn’t named after a particular year but after "The Decade of Decadence". The logo looks like it was created in 1986, but it feels fresh for baseball fans to rock in on a trucker’s cap in 2024." Jason - “The 80’s is a good logo. It is one of my favorites of the off-season. It's like an 80s logo. They are trying to bring in the culture and the vibe of that era of baseball. That’s good and that sounds a lot of fun.” Saskatoon Berries - Western Canadian Baseball League Marc - "You can’t help but like the cute little logo of the expansion of Saskatoon Berries of the Western Canadian Baseball League. The emblem, designed by Brad McLeod, works for the company that owns the Berries, Sask Entertainment Group. The colors of purple and sky blue give this a fresh look for the club bringing back baseball fun in the summertime in Saskatchewan. Jason - “I love this one. It’s a nice, cute logo, but this little berry with the eye black, white cap turned backward like Ken Griffey, Jr., with his bat over his shoulder is great for the league. I’m a sucker for purple, and it’s a good logo for a baseball team. You love to see a logo like this for a collegiate summer league.” Northwest Arkansas Naturals - Texas League Marc - "I love the colors and secondary marks, and the rooster logo is a great addition to the new branding of the ball club. The oversized logos are not my cup of tea, but this new branding makes you realize how outdated the old logo was. There is a lot to enjoy from the Naturals new imagery." Jason - "The new Naturals logo dials back on the business of their old primary mark to create a new visual identity that puts the scenic views of NWA at the forefront. The blue, yellow, and red color scheme of the club creates a stunning portrait of a sunset sky over a natural landscape. I'm also a big fan of the oversized secondary marks that truly pop on caps. The oversized cap logo look seems to be in (see the Tampa Bay Rays Devil Ray throwbacks), and the Naturals certainly do not miss that mark. Overall, this is a massive improvement, in my opinion, and I cannot wait to see the new logo set hit the field." --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com Follow Jason Moragas on Twitter @jasonxxiv

Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Trinity Health Arena 955 Fourth St Muskegon, MI 49440 Muskegon Risers website Trinity Health Arena website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 3,500 Rising Up to the Occasion in Muskegon The L. C. Walker Arena was dedicated to the City of Muskegon on October 27, 1960. Louis C. Walker, the founder of Shaw-Walker Office Equipment, wanted to provide for the recreational needs of his employees and residents and donated a generous $1 million for its construction. The city then spent an additional $1.5 million on the land, utilities, parking, and some furnishings. Walker would help create at least 14 other recreational fields and parks in Muskegon during his lifetime. The arena has been home to a variety of events that have included concerts, trade shows, and sporting events. The arena also houses the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League and the West Michigan Ironmen of the American Arena League; its newest tenant is the Muskegon Risers of Major Arena Soccer League 2 who call the building home for six games during the winter months. The Risers were founded in 2014 and its nickname was inspired by the ‘Muskegon, Together Rising’ sculpture that stands in the heart of downtown. The club also operates in the United Premier Soccer League Midwest conference during the summer at Kehren Stadium. According to its website, the colors of blue and gold reflect the city’s natural beauty as a lakeside community during the spring, summer, and fall seasons but change to black and white during the winter indoor season when Lake Michigan freezes and lake effect snow blankets the community. The Risers also function as the primary player development partner of the Milwaukee Wave of MASL and the unique partnership includes cross-promotions, player development, tactical mentoring, game-day operations, and MASL call-ups. The Wave will also provide players who need additional playing time to the Risers when needed. It was the first and only such agreement in the two leagues of arena soccer. The arena has a capacity of 3,500 for indoor soccer games and features a playing surface that is gray with white lining. There is also an artistic flair to the inner concourse from colorful chairs and tables, local artist paintings, and social hang-out spots. With the arena turning 60 years old at the beginning of the next decade, it is still a hip place to enjoy a soccer game. In 2018 $1.7 million of renovations improved the fan experience and created a broader entertainment hub for patrons attending events in the building. These renovations included Rad Dad’s Taco & Tequilla Bar, a pavilion/beer garden, an enlarged concourse near the Western Ave. entrance, new suites and club-seating areas, a Kids Zone, and party decks on the northwest and southwest corners of the arena. The renovations decreased seating by 400 but fans are now able to enjoy events in the building in a myriad of options allowing for an open environment seen at much larger buildings across the nation. in January 2020 the building will change its name to Mercy Health Arena at the tune of $1.5 million over 15 years. The sponsorship will begin with a sports-theme restaurant called Carlisle’s, Walker’s middle name, and include patio seating with local sports memorabilia on its walls. Food & Beverage 3 The traditional concession stands offer $2 hot dogs, $6 cheddar brats, $10 brisket sandwiches, mac-n-cheese for $5, pizza by the slice or whole pie, and Pepsi products with unlimited refills for $4. Two bars offer domestic and craft beers for $4-$7 along with $7 mixed drinks and wine. That’s nice enough but in the summer of 2018, interior space was used to create a new restaurant called Rad Dads, a high-end taco restaurant featuring a wide selection of tequilas. They serve food and drink in two plastic outdoor heated igloos and an indoor space. There are also skateboards, classic pinball, and video games along with a wall of cassette tapes that creates a lively and unique décor. Along the stadium perimeter walls, small portable stands offer items such as classic Hawaiian shave ice (highly recommended) and ice cream. Atmosphere 2 The renovations have created a building that stands out not only in the M2 but could also hold its own in the MASL. Spectators who enjoy watching soccer from their seats still have that option while others who want to mingle or be seen by others can find a spot at the bar or numerous party decks on the concourse. The changes have indeed created a “hub” for entertainment in town during the winter season. There are some exterior and interior decor that show their age from when the building debuted in 1960. However, there is a colorful array of art inside the building that injects much-needed life into the old place. The most eye-popping aspect is the gray field turf that Risers play on during games that is not your typical green-colored surface. It was installed in April of 2017 and is also utilized by the indoor football team that occupies the building during the spring and summer, so you will see a few grid marks on its surface. Approximately ten rows of reasonably comfortable red/purple padded seats surround the oval playing surface. There are not any cup holders available. The sight lines are good and seats are close to the action. A few special seating areas are available for groups and a kids' play area will keep the little ones busy. These two areas were part of recent renovations to the arena that also include a beer garden with 8 flat-screen TVs and a social area. A scoreboard is over the center of the playing field that provides an average-quality sound system and good music during timeouts and between periods. The Risers do not have an official mascot. There is a small area offering team shirts and other merchandise. Neighborhood 3 The area around the arena is mixed residential/commercial with several choices for food, drink, and entertainment. Rad Dads is a part of the building and fans can have dinner there and have great views of the action on the turf. Nearby dining choices include Rebel Pies for pizza, 18th Amendment Spirits Company for a wide-ranging menu including wood-fired pizzas, and an old-school burger joint named Hamburger Mikey. Two well-rated breweries are Pigeon Hill Brewing Company and Unruly Brewing Company. Three state parks on Lake Michigan are great to visit in the summer. Other attractions include the Muskegon Heritage Museum, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, and the Monet Garden. Fans 2 The Risers are working to create a fan interest in indoor soccer. Given the 3,500 seats, the fan support is limited right now. They have many families who attend along with several groups. The noise level is pretty low, but don’t blame The Port City Supporters, a group of four guys doing their best to get fans involved. An interesting twist that goes along with the vibe of the building, in one corner, multiple bed sheets have been painted as flags of the players’ nationalities. A total of 25 out of the squad’s 31 players are from the area or have attended a West Michigan college or university. Access 3 Located on Business US 31 downtown and about two miles west of US 31, driving to the arena is pretty easy. Parking is a bit of a challenge as there are a few lots nearby so consider street parking. Handicap parking is at Fourth Street and Western Avenue and they have a handicap entrance with an elevator at the small back parking lot. There are two entrances; Western Avenue is handicap accessible and there are three handicap seating sections. Gates open one hour before the game starts. A concourse surrounds the seating area which allows fans to follow the action everywhere. They are updating and adding new restrooms. Return on Investment 3 Loge seats are $15; section seating is $11 and $9 tickets are offered to seniors, children under 17, and military members. Food and beverage prices are very reasonable and parking is free. The club does not offer a program but does offer free roster sheets showcasing the players’ names and uniform numbers. Extras 3 Any arena that has a taco joint named Rad Dads is certainly worth a point, as well as real Hawaiian shave ice for another. Outdoor igloos in winter are fun for a small group, especially in the frigid temperatures of Michigan. The local art, grey turf, colorful displays around the concourse, and local eateries add to an interesting vibe to the arena that sets it a party for your typical M2 venue. This might be the crown jewel of the league. Final Thoughts Muskegon’s citizens are working hard to use L. C. Walker Arena as a local entertainment opportunity at a reasonable price. It is a nice spot for families and groups to enjoy a night out. As for the game of indoor soccer, the arena is the ideal size for the sport and the Risers hope to hang their hat along with minor league hockey and indoor football as a sports and entertainment option in the city. The local art, grey turf, colorful displays around the concourse, and local eateries add to an interesting vibe to the arena that sets it apart for your typical M2 venue. This might be the crown jewel of the league.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Bon Secours Wellness Arena 650 N Academy St Greenville, SC 29601 Greenville Swamp Rabbits website Bon Secours Wellness Arena website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 13,951 "The Well" Turns 25 The Greenville Swamp Rabbits moved to Greenville, South Carolina, from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in 2010. The team was known as the Road Warriors until 2015. They were rechristened as the Swamp Rabbits. The name is local, as it refers to a defunct rail line that had run through the city of Greenville. The team plays in the ECHL’s Southern Division of the Eastern Conference. The Swamp Rabbits are an affiliate of the NHL Los Angeles Kings. They have gone to the ECHL playoffs several times, but have yet to win a league title. The team has fierce rivalries with the South Carolina Stingrays and the Atlanta Gladiators in the ECHL. The Bon Secours Wellness Arena in downtown Greenville serves as the home of the Swamp Rabbits. It was built in 1998 and was formerly known as the Bi-Lo Center. The arena changed names in 2013 as a part of a naming rights agreement with the local hospital system. These days it is known as simply “The Well.” The arena seats 15,951 in its hockey configuration. It is the largest arena in the Upstate portion of South Carolina, and the second-largest arena in the state overall. There are 30 luxury suites and 840 club seats in the venue. Food & Beverage 4 Bon Secours Wellness Arena offers a wider selection of concession items than most minor league hockey arenas. All concessions at Bon Secours are located at the concourse level. Stands include Mac Attack, Swamp Dog, Carolina Smoke BBQ, the Piedmont Grill, The Reedy River Roost, and Moe’s Southwestern Grill. Pepsi brand products are offered at all stands. For the most part, the concessions are your typical stadium/arena fare. However, we did enjoy The Fried Green Tomato and Pimento Cheese Burger at the Piedmont Grill and the chicken and waffles at The Reedy River Roost. The arena offers two bars with sightlines to the action on the ice. They are Harley’s Motor Lounge and the Wicked Weed Green Room. The Craft Beer Station offers a selection of more than two dozen craft beers. All concession stands operate on a cashless basis. Atmosphere 3 Bon Secours Wellness Arena is an above-average facility for this level of hockey. It offers multiple entrances, a wide and well-lit concourse, excellent signage and well-staffed concession stands with a wide variety of menu items. The seating bowl offers excellent views of the action on the ice, and the center-hung videoboard constantly provides updated game stats and replays of the action on the ice. Seating is very comfortable. What brings down our score in this category is the attendance at Swamp Rabbits games. The average attendance for Swamp Rabbit games is 3,786. In an arena that seats 15,591, that means only 23% of the seats are filled regularly. While that means that you will have plenty of room to move around, it takes away the energy from the game, especially when the Swamp Rabbits are on a power play or score a goal. For most games, the Swamp Rabbits do not even open the upper level of seats. Since there is only one price for tickets, it does not matter where you sit. Neighborhood 4 Bon Secours Wellness Arena is located in Downtown Greenville. It is surrounded by the best the city has to offer as far as accommodations, restaurants, and local attractions. Hotels within walking distance of the arena include the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Greenville Downtown and the Courtyard Marriott Downtown Greenville. There are two drinking establishments close to the arena. Fireforge Crafted Beer and Yee-haw Brewing are just a few blocks from the Bon Secours Arena. The arena is also located near the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Zoo, and the very popular Falls Park on the Reedy. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen is a very popular restaurant near the arena. Fans 3 Greenville mascot Stomper circulates through the stands throughout the game, firing up the fans and celebrating each Swamp Rabbit goal or a successful killing of a power play when the Swamp Rabbits are shorthanded. The team also offers a Party on the Plaza on weekends during the warmer weather months. This event includes beer/wine, food, music, and games for the kids. The low attendance levels at “The Well” for Swamp Rabbits games really does bring down the energy level in the building. This is a shame, as the fans who do attend are very dedicated and knowledgeable about the team. Access 4 The home of the Swamp Rabbits is easily accessed no matter what direction you are coming from. From the North: Take I-85 South to I-385 North (Downtown Greenville). Follow I-385 for 6.5 miles and the arena will be on your right. From the South: Take I-85 North to I-185 North (Downtown Greenville). I-185 becomes Mills Avenue and Church Street. Go three miles and the arena will be on your right. From the East: Take I-26 North to I-385 North (Downtown Greenville). Follow I-385 for 6.5 miles and the arena will be on your right. The official Bon Secours Wellness Arena lot is restricted for use by season ticket holders. Several parking decks are located within a few blocks of the arena. They include the Liberty Square Garage, the Common Garage on Beattie Place , and the North Lauren Street Parking Deck. The Downtown Greenville Trolley runs an Arena Events Route beginning 60 minutes before the puck drop. Go to the Swamp Rabbits website for a list of the trolley stops on this route. Once at the arena, there are three main entrance portals. Doors open one hour before the puck drop. Swamp Rabbits merchandise stands are located adjacent to each entrance. There are eight restrooms located on the concourse level of the arena. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Swamp Rabbit games are $26, no matter where you sit in the arena. Many games will have the upper level closed if projected attendance is low. Parking lots in and around Bon Secours charge a $10 special event parking fee on gameday. For the most part, the concessions prices are quite reasonable compared to most sports venues. Extras 5 The Swamp Rabbits have a dance team known as the Rabbetts. They perform between periods and during other breaks in the action. The Bon Secours Wellness Arena is the primary entertainment venue in Greenville. Among the stars who have played at “the Well” are Blake Shelton, Garth Brooks, Paul McCartney, Eric Church, James Taylor, and Alan Jackson. The arena has also hosted the Women’s SEC Basketball Tournament, rodeos, Cirque Du Soleil, Dancing with the Stars, Monster Jams, WWE wrestling competitions, and the Harlem Globetrotters. The Bon Secours Wellness Center is well-equipped for fans with special needs. There are plenty of areas along the concourse designated for wheelchair fans. The arena also offers sensory safety kits and a Sensory Suite for fans who are on the spectrum. The Swamp Rabbits are the second hockey franchise to play at Bon Secours. They were preceded by the Greenville Grrrowl. Numerous events are being held throughout the 2023-2024 season to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Bon Secours Wellness Arena opening, Final Thoughts The Bon Secours Wellness Arena offers a better-than-average experience for almost every type of sports event or concert. Unfortunately, the lack of attendance for Swamp Rabbits games affects the energy level in the building.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 The Diamond 3001 N Blvd Richmond, VA 23230 Richmond Flying Squirrels website The Diamond website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 9,560 When Will The Squirrels Get A New Home? When the Richmond Braves left Richmond for Gwinnett in 2008, the city was left without a team for the first time since 1965. The baseball hiatus in the capital was thankfully short-lived however, because in 2009 it was announced that the Double-A Connecticut Defenders would relocate to Richmond in 2010. The Richmond Flying Squirrels began playing at the Diamond in 2010 with the promise that a new ballpark would be built in a couple of years. However, thirteen years later, the Squirrels are still playing in the Diamond. A new stadium is supposed to be completed by 2026, which cannot come soon enough. The Diamond is old, unkept, dirty, and is just a dungy place to visit. The lack of upkeep outside the stadium and in the parking areas (trash everywhere, old pallets piled up in parking lot/sidewalks) just gives. Food & Beverage 3 The majority of food at the Diamond is standard ballpark food. Items range from hot dogs to chicken sandwiches to chicken tenders as main courses. Snack items include nachos, soft pretzels, peanuts, cracker jacks, fries, mozzarella sticks, etc. A couple of fan favorites are the MacBrisket Bowl and the Buffalo Drumsticks. Bottled Pepsi products are available, as well as coffee and hot chocolate. Domestic beer and craft beer are also available. Atmosphere 2 The Diamond is a huge chunk of concrete that resembles a cut-out of the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium. The stadium was built in 1985 and its age shows. It is a stadium whose time has passed. However, when the Flying Squirrels moved into the stadium in 2010, all 3,200 seats in the lower bowl were replaced. The lower bowl is the best place to sit as it is intimate and close to the action. The seats on the upper deck are old and dirty, and we do not recommend sitting there. Neighborhood 3 There is not much to do right around The Diamond, and it is in some uninteresting part of town. Across the street from the stadium is the Greyhound Bus Station, and on either side of the ballpark is the Arthur Ashe Athletic Center and Sports Backers Stadium, home of the VCU soccer team. There is nowhere to eat within walking distance. Your best bet is to drive, and in a couple-mile radius, there are several good options for eating and drinking: ZZQ Barbecue, En Su Boca, Boulevard Burger and Brew, and Hardy Park Craft Brewery. A couple miles away on Broad Street is Buz n Neds BBQ which is also a great spot. There is also a movie theater nearby, Movieland at Boulevard Square, which is housed in an old manufacturing warehouse. Also nearby are the Children’s Museum of Richmond and the Science Museum of Virginia. Fans 5 Despite not being rewarded with a new stadium, baseball fans across show up in force to see the Flying Squirrels. In 2023, the Squirrels were the Double-A attendance champions who had over 428,000 fans throughout the season, which is over 6,000 average attendance per game. Access 3 The Diamond is located just off Interstates 95 and 64 near downtown Richmond and is easy to get to from wherever you may be traveling from, including Richmond International Airport. There is plenty of parking around the Diamond for $5. However, if you park behind the outfield wall, where most of the parking is, you have to walk all the way around to the front gate as there are no outfield gates, and the side gates are not utilized. There are no direct sidewalks either, so you have to meander your way through cars and random barriers in the parking lot. Tickets can be bought at the ticket window near the main entrance, with both cash and card accepted, or online in advance. The concourse is small and can get cramped when there are big crowds. Restrooms are located on the first and third base lines and have diaper-changing stations. There is an elevator near the main entrance for the handicapped and to a large, handicapped seating area on the concourse level directly behind the home plate. Return on Investment 2 Squirrels ticket prices range from $10-$20 which is on par with most minor league teams. However, due to the poor condition of the Diamond, it is simply not worth it. Extras 2 One extra point for the free game program, and one extra point for the friendly mascots Nutzy and Nutasha who make their way around the ballpark to take pictures with kids and families. Final Thoughts While the Squirrels have been a competitive team of late and have drawn well, the condition of the ballpark makes the entire experience lacking. Hopefully, the city of Richmond will keep its word and have a new ballpark for the team by 2026, but until brick and mortar are present it is doubtful. The team and their fans certainly deserve it! Unless you are definitely keen on seeing the Squirrels play or a certain player, we would recommend waiting until a new ballpark is built to go to a Flying Squirrels game.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Amon G. Carter Stadium 2850 Stadium Dr Fort Worth, TX 76129 TCU Horned Frogs website Amon G. Carter Stadium website Year Opened: 1930 Capacity: 47,000 TCU Horned Frogs – Amon G. Carter Stadium Amon G. Carter Stadium has been home to the Texas Christian University football team since 1930. The original seating capacity was for 22,000, but over the years the stadium has expanded to today’s current capacity of 47,000. The renovation in 2010 changed the old stadium into the current stadium as it was demolished and reconstructed – the latest upgrade was a $113 million addition completed before the 2020 season that opened a new section of luxury suites. The Carter, as it has also sometimes been referred to, has been home to two claimed National Championships (1935 and 1938), one Heisman Trophy winner in Davey O’Brien, and scores of All-Americans and all-time greats, including Sammy Baugh and LaDainian Tomlinson. The stadium name is in honor, of Amon G. Carter, a prominent Fort Worth businessman, newspaper publisher, and city booster in 1930. The renovated stadium’s brick-and-column facade sits well among the other campus buildings of the same façade and is a neighbor to TCU’s basketball arena, Schollmaier Arena. Besides TCU football, Amon G. Carter Stadium also hosts a post-season bowl game, the Armed Forces Bowl, in December. Food and Beverage 4 The food and beverage selection at Amon G. Carter has received upgrades over the years. The stadium has similarly named concession stands throughout the stadium, so there is no need to go looking for a certain item. These are the basic concessions but more recently, TCU brought local food vendors to give the fans more of a selection – Chicken Express, Chick-fil-A, Bobby’s Fajitas, Railhead BBQ, Pardon My Steak, and the popular pizza near campus, Buffalo Bros, all now have concession stands inside Amon G. Carter Stadium. The basic stand is called the Taste of Funkytown, a Fort Worth nickname. This concession stand provides beef nachos, chopped beef sandwiches, hot dogs, regular nachos, pretzels, peanuts, and popcorn, all priced under $10; the best deal for food is at these stands. TCU also has a happy hour that starts from the time gates open until 30 minutes before kickoff, where you can purchase the above food items, as well as drinks, for $3 each (except for the beef nachos and chopped beef sandwiches). If you want to try the outside vendor food, Chicken Express has a combo meal for $18 (4 tender rolls and a 44 oz drink), while Pardon My Steak provides cheesesteak for $13. However, my favorite two vendors are Bobby’s Fajitas and Buffalo Bros – Bobby’s Fajitas has beef and chicken fajita nachos, quesadillas, tacos, and tamales, while Buffalo Bros has pizza and wings, which are reasonably priced for a sporting event. Amon G. Carter Stadium serves Pepsi products, with the best value outside happy hour being their 44 oz soda. There is also Gatorade, water, and alcohol available besides soda. The alcohol selection is decent with typical sports venue prices of $10-$13 depending on your selection. Wine is served throughout the facility, but hard liquor is not available outside the clubs. The concession stands and bars at all TCU venues are cashless; TCU Athletics will accept all major credit cards, Visa gift cards, and all forms of non-contact payment including Apple & Google Pay. Overall, the food and beverages are on par with other Big 12 stadiums, but the happy hour prices raise this section’s rating to above average. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at TCU is similar to other campuses around the Big 12, but being a smaller school, the pre-game tailgating here is contained to areas right around the stadium. Tailgating begins 5 hours before kickoff when the parking opens, with Frog Alley opening for fans a couple of hours closer to kickoff. Frog Alley has food, drinks, TCU athletics team autographs, giveaways, and music. TCU football players enter the stadium with the Frog Walk, 2 hours before kickoff, and the gates open an hour and a half before game time. Inside Amon G. Carter Stadium, the Frog Horn is blown every 30 minutes up to kickoff. The marching band walks through the concourse before entering the field, and then the pre-game festivities begin. The atmosphere is built up before the Horned Frogs take the field – the TCU Showgirls and band, along with the mascot Super Frog, get the crowd ready. The TCU student section is in the lower bowl behind the visitor bench. They are actively involved with cheers of “Riff, Ram, Bah, Zoo” and their Frogs hand sign. The game has fireworks and Frog Horn sounds when TCU enters the stadium, as well as when the home team scores points. The Frog Horn also blows incessantly in the end zone during the game, much to the chagrin of opposing teams. The upper deck of the stadium has reminders of 2 national championships, past bowl victories, and TCU’s 2022 college football playoff appearance. The atmosphere is on par with other college football games, but can become special when certain teams visit The Carter; the stadium is perfect for those games. Neighborhood 4 Texas Christian University is located in the fifth-largest city in Texas, Fort Worth, just 4 miles away from downtown Fort Worth and located in the middle of a residential neighborhood. Amon G. Carter Stadium is on the TCU campus. There are a few dining and lodging options near TCU – two popular spots on gameday and within walking distance from the stadium are Buffalo Bros and Dutch’s Burgers. Buffalo Bros serves pizza and wings, while next-door Dutch burgers cover the hamburgers. Both places will fill up quickly on gameday. There are plenty of restaurants around Fort Worth, however, Heim BBQ and Joe T. Garcia’s are among the most visited by out-of-towners, and both provide great food. There are also various choices when it comes to lodging, from downtown hotels to the hotel at the Fort Worth Stockyards; the closest hotels are Hyatt Place Fort Worth and the Courtyard by Marriott Fort Worth. There are plenty of things to do as well while spending your time in Fort Worth. The closest to TCU’s campus is the Fort Worth Zoo; the zoo is home to over 7,000 unique species and is located on University Drive across from Colonial Country Club, which holds a PGA event every May. The Fort Worth Stockyards is another fun destination, where you can see cattle run during the day, replicating the end of the Chisholm Trail. There are also plenty of shops, but the most famous attraction is the world-famous Billy Bob’s Texas, proclaimed as the world’s largest Honky Tonk, which is famous for its live music and indoor rodeo and bull riding contests. Downtown Fort Worth has the Water Gardens, or you can visit the hotel where John F. Kennedy spent his last night before he visited Dallas. Fort Worth has a lot to offer, but if you want more, Dallas is only a 45-minute drive away. Fans 4 Texas Christian University has a small enrollment compared to other Big 12 schools, but the attendance at Amon G. Carter Stadium does not show it. In 2022 the Horns Frogs averaged 46,562 in their 46,000-seat stadium, then broke that mark with an average of 47,416 in 2023. TCU set their all-time attendance record of 53,294 (beating the previous mark of 50,000) in a game against the Utah Utes in 2009. Most of the fans are engaged, especially on third downs – the heart of the fanbase is the student section, located along the first level behind the visitor’s bench. For big games, the fans will show up, and The Carter can become a wonderful home-field advantage for the Horned Frogs. Access 4 In terms of Access, there are a few faults for Amon G. Carter Stadium. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports and is only about a half-hour drive from campus. There is public transportation via Trinity Metro TEX Rail or the Metro 7 bus line to TCU, but watch their schedule as it is not a late-running bus service. If you stay anywhere downtown, it is a short Uber ride. If you are driving there are eight official parking lots available at Amon G. Carter Stadium, but like other college sports venues, these spots are by permit only. There are three paid parking lots and two free parking lots, but those tend to fill up fast, especially the free lots located at Doxology Bible Church and Travis Avenue Baptist Church – the paid parking lots do have shuttle services to and from the stadium, however. Otherwise, there is plenty of paid parking throughout the neighborhood surrounding TCU, usually $20-$40 per spot, but if you get there early you can park in the neighborhood for free. The entrances to Amon G. Carter are easy to find around the stadium. The concourse is wide and there is plenty of signage for first-time visitors – the facility is an easy venue to access compared to the larger stadiums in the Big 12. Return on Investment 4 Single-game tickets for TCU Horned Frog games are a worthwhile investment, as tickets range from $45-$200 depending on the game and the seat; the higher priced ticket will be against in-state rivals such as Texas Tech and Baylor. Concessions are on average compared to other stadiums, but with the happy hour pricing before the game, a family can save on eating while at the game. The parking is up to you, as there is free parking available, but even if you have to pay the price is not as high as at some Big 12 schools. The small confines of Amon G. Carter, and the low cost overall for a top-level college football program, make TCU well worth it money-wise for any fan. Extras 5 Amon G. Carter itself is a beautiful facility and is a perfect setting for college football, showcasing the pageantry of college football with its tailgating, TCU Horned Frogs marching Band, TCU Cheerleaders, TCU Showgirls, and their beloved mascot Super Frog. The Frog Horn was a gift from Burlington Northern Railroad; the horn is decked out in purple and blown before and during the game. There are also fireworks displays, military flyovers, reminders of past players throughout the concourse, plus an area to read about the history of Amon G. Carter – they are all part of the experience at TCU football games. Add in the TCU student section with their frog signs, Riff Bam chants, and the visits from former players, and a game at The Carter is better than most. Amon G. Carter Stadium has everything good about college football and should be on any sports fan’s list of places to visit.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Lane Stadium 185 Beamer Way Blacksburg, VA 24060 Virginia Tech Hokies website Lane Stadium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 65,632 Enter Sandman Lane Stadium, home to Virginia Tech Hokies football, opened in 1965 with a capacity of 35,000 as Virginia Tech beat William and Mary 9-7. Many additions have come through the years including the south end zone expansion with 11,000 additional seats in 2002, and the luxury suites/press tower in 2006. Many publications have billed Lane Stadium as one of the finest places to watch a game and one of the toughest for an opposing team. Food & Beverage 4 Lane Stadium offers a wide variety of food choices as there are several concession stands located around the stadium. Some of the more popular items include Lane’s Leg- a fried Turkey leg, which is a play of the Hokie mascot and Benny’s Pizza. Benny’s is a local chain that offers huge pizza slices at Lane Stadium. Another Virginia favorite, Smithfield Foods, has several stands around the stadium and offers bacon slices, pulled pork sandwiches, and pulled pork Mac and cheese. As Virginia is the birthplace of peanuts in the US, Whitley’s Virginia peanuts are sold throughout the stadium. Other options include Big Dipper’s Chicken and Subway. Turkey Legs Concessions at Lane Stadium Coke products are sold in two sizes with the larger being a souvenir cup. A variety of alcoholic beverages are sold as well as coffee and hot chocolate. Atmosphere 5 Lane Stadium is the epitome of a college football on-campus stadium. It is a massive facility from the exterior as it is built mostly above ground and is very steep. It also matches the Virginia Tech campus buildings as the exterior of the stadium is donned with the famous Hokie Stone. Lane Stadium has single-level stands on either sideline with the east side being quite a bit higher than the other. The west side is anchored by the press tower and suites. The south end zone has a small section of stands that is a dedicated student section, while the north end zone is a large triple-level structure, with a club level between levels two and three. The stadium stands are very steep, which offers great sightlines throughout the stadium. The playing surface at Lane Stadium is natural grass. A large video board towers above the south end zone, and there are several ribbon boards around the stadium. Lane Stadium Interior, Photo by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Lane Stadium is best known for its Enter Sandman entrance, as the Metallica song is played as the team runs out onto the field. Everyone “starts jumping” and they can at times register on the Richter Scale as the stadium shakes. Virginia Tech has two marching bands. The Marching Virginians sit in the north end zone and only play at halftime and not pregame. The Highty-Tighties are the Regimental Band in the Corp of Cadets, sit in the south end zone, and play pre-game. The majority of seating at Lane Stadium is bench seating except for the second level in the south end zone and the first couple of rows of the upper deck. Chairbacks are available for rent for $10 per game and are available at the gate to rent and take to your seat. The sun sets between the south end zone and west stands, so if you want to be in the sun for a colder game, you will need to sit in the west stands. Neighborhood 4 Since it is in the middle of campus there is not much to do within walking distance of the ballpark before or after a game. However, Virginia Tech’s campus is gorgeous with the rolling hills, sidewalks, and Hokie stone. Lane Stadium is right next door to Cassell Coliseum. If it is your first time on the campus, try to spend some time walking around campus. Be sure to stop by the April 16th Memorial near the Drillfield dedicated to the victims of the Virginia Tech shooting. If you take a stroll down Main Street Blacksburg, you will find several food options including local eateries as well as chain restaurants such as the Maroon Door, Mellow Mushroom, Five Guys, and Jimmy Johns. If you like the outdoors, this is the place for you as there are many activities in the surrounding mountains like hiking and canoeing. Home2Suites is less than a mile from campus and is a great place to stay if you are in town overnight, but may be pricy on game weekends. If you are looking to save on lodging, stay about 30 miles away in Roanoke. Fans 5 Fan support at Virginia Tech is unmatched in many locations as the Hokies sold out five games in 2023 at 66,000 strong. This is quite a feat as Blacksburg, VA is literally in the middle of nowhere, and many fans drive from the more populated areas of the state 2-3 hours away. Even though the Hokies have endured several lean years on the field, the fan support is still strong. Fans arrive early for Enter Sandman to “Start Jumping.” The stadium shakes and often registers on the Richter scale when the Hokies enter the field. Fans are loud throughout the game creating an intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams. Access 4 Virginia Tech’s campus is easily accessible from I-81, about 10 miles away on US 460. Take the Southgate Dr. exit off of US 460, then turn left onto Beamer Way. Lane Stadium will be on your right. The best parking for those without a parking pass is Margaret Beeks Elementary School, about 1 mile away from Lane Stadium. It is about a 20-minute walk to the stadium and is $10 to park there. Be aware that a clear bag policy is in place, and it is well enforced. If you do not have one, they are available for sale at the CVS Pharmacy next to campus and at the Walmart in Christiansburg. Once inside, there is a single concourse that wraps underneath the seating bowl, except the south end zone where steps or an elevator will take you to an upper concourse for upper-level seating. The restroom and concession areas are all very clean, and easily accessible on the concourse. Handicapped accessible seating is located in several seating sections as you enter the seating bowl. Return on Investment 3 Major college football is not cheap, but the price is well worth it for the experience. Expect to pay close to $80 per ticket for most conference games, as well as the cost of food, parking, hotel, etc. Extras 5 An extra point for Hokie Village directly across the street for the west stands, which has pre-game music, food trucks, vendors, games, etc. An extra point for Enter Sandman and the team entrance. An extra point for the mountain backdrop surrounding Lane Stadium. An extra point for the great job that the game operations/video board staff does at getting the crowd fired up on third down and big plays, etc. If you are not in town on game day but still want to visit Lane Stadium, you can visit the Virginia Tech Hall of Fame museum from 9 am-3 pm Monday through Friday on the west side of the stadium Final Thoughts Lane Stadium has a great sight line no matter where you sit within the stadium and can be one of the loudest stadiums in the country at times. We wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Lane Stadium to watch the Hokies, especially a night game.

Mallparks: Baseball Stadium and the Culture of Consumption Mallparks by Michael T. Friedman is a very interesting read that explores the evolution of the ballparks of yesteryear into the consumption-driven “mallparks” of today. To illustrate his point, the author uses the example of the two ends of the north/sound line of the Twin Cities rapid rail line. The south terminus is found in Bloomington, MN, while the north terminus is found outside Target Stadium in downtown Minneapolis. Bloomington was the site of Metropolitan Stadium, the first home of the Minnesota Twins after the former Washington Senators after they relocated from Washington, DC. It was a traditional ballpark, where the only game offered was on the field, and the only concessions offered were the peanuts, popcorn, and cracker jacks of the famous song. Metropolitan Stadium eventually made way for the Mall of America, which in a way was an evolution in and of itself. Before the MOA, shopping malls were simply a grouping of stores to sell goods. Mall of America broke that mold by offering food courts with a wide variety of foods offered in varying cuisines surrounding an indoor amusement park. That was revolutionary for its time. Fast forward for several decades and Target Field now is the northern terminus for the rapid rail line. It also offers food courts filled with a widely varying menu and several amusement-style activities surrounding the game on the field. Friedman traces the sports venue’s evolution to the building of Camden Yards in Baltimore. He recounts a visit to the park via a litany of commercial entities operating onsite, including restaurants, stores selling all sorts of sports memorabilia, special amenities officially linked to varying ticket prices, and a short tour of the history of baseball in Baltimore (before he even reaches his seat.) Early baseball stadiums consisted of very basic seating areas surrounded by a fence. The fence was erected so that owners of the early teams could charge admission and the owner would make money off of the games. As the game evolved owners often experienced competition from other teams, and each owner tried to offer something that made their product unique. The stadium arms race was on. Soon “size matters” was the rule of the day, with bigger “super” stadiums and larger capacities being sought. Eventually, this was to the detriment of the game, as the sightlines and distance from the field suffered. Architectural firms became the next ally in owners’ quest to maximize profits from their venues. Rodgers Centre in Toronto is an early example of this genre. The stadium required a roof due to Toronto’s weather during the early and late months of the season. But having that roof be retractable was not a necessity. Nor was there a need for a hotel, fitness center, movie theatre, and seven full-service restaurants to be added to the construction design. Cities have partnered with owners and architects in seeking to maximize profits for themselves by offering “postcard views” of the city from the stadium to drive tourism. No modern ballparks are designed without suite levels, in-stadium fine dining, or party decks for large group gatherings. Just like malls, retail is extremely important in today’s mallparks. Merchandise has gone way beyond the ballcaps, bobbleheads, and pennants of yesteryear. Friedman cites partnerships with mall veterans like Victoria's Secret, Build-A-Bear, and Disney. Tours of the ballparks generally begin and end at the team’s store. In addition to Camden Yards, the author also looks at several other MLB stadiums that are retrofitting to become mallparks. Fenway Park is considered a “classic”, yet has added amenities such as premium seating atop the Green Monster, a team museum, and additional retail outlets. Dodger Stadium added 1,600 premium seats and doubled the number of concessions stands. It also added a beer garden two sports bars and a Legends of Dodger Baseball area within the park. The second portion of the book explores the next generation of mallparks, which the author calls “mallpark villages”. These venues have created retail, lodging, dining, and residential neighborhoods just outside of the stadium walls. The two examples of this design are the Ballpark Village in St. Louis, The Battery Atlanta just outside of Truist Park, and the proposed new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays. The teams serve as the landlords for these developments and receive rental income as well as a percentage of the profits from their sales. This brings in money to the teams before fans even enter the stadium and also generates year-round income over and above the sixty home dates a team may play during the baseball season. Local governments see it as increased tax revenue from the retail sales, hotel taxes, and property taxes derived from the mallpark village. Since almost every ballpark receives construction funding from local governments, the author suggests that mallparks and mallpark villages can also function well in serving the community. The large industrial kitchens can be utilized to feed the homeless or victims of a large disaster. They can also serve as testing and vaccination facilities during pandemics. Some stadiums can also be used as voting sites during local or national elections. Mallparks closes with a look at Populous, the largest architectural and stadium design firm in the country. It has been a major player in the design of mallparks and mallpark villages. It was the first firm to design club levels in stadiums, a major source of income for the teams, with additional perks for premium customers. They have been successful at designing and delivering the stadium desired by their clients while delivering the finished facility on time and within budget. After reading Mallparks, the reader will never look at their visit to their local ballpark in the same way again.

The mecca for any hockey fan is a journey to Toronto, Ontario to take in the Hockey Hall of Fame. The question is, with the other major sport halls of fame, where does the Hockey Hall of Fame stack up? Grab a beer and join Paul and Dave as they head out to discuss the home of Lord Stanley and the Hockey Hall of Fame. 🏒🏒

Photos by Eric Hasman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena 2616 N Pleasant View Rd Middleton, WI 53562 Madison Capitols website Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 2,600 Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena in Middleton, Wisconsin The Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena is in Middleton, WI approximately 15 minutes northwest from downtown Madison, WI. The Madison Capitols have been in existence since 1984. The Capitols have been a member of the United States Hockey League (USHL) since 1994. In 1994 new ownership, took over (Ryan Suter, defenseman for the Minnesota Wild and Tom Sagissor, a former Wisconsin Badger) as part of the ownership group. The team relocated from the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI to Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena starting the 2017–18 season. Reasons cited for the move included a decrease in available dates for hockey at the Alliant Energy Center. The team has not been very successful on the ice making the playoffs two times in their USHL existence. Since joining the USHL there has been eight players who have been drafted by NHL teams. Food & Beverage 2 The food selection is slim here. They have the classic hot dogs for $4.50, a Sondel Dog for $5.50 and a brat for $5. Of course, there are Nachos ($5) and Nachos Supreme ($6). Slices of Pizza are available for $6. A "large" (22 oz) fountain soda will set you back $3 and a16 oz costs $2 and Gatorade is $4. Bottle water, ice tea or chocolate milk (interesting choice) is $3. The arena has two interesting items, a cup / bowl of Mac & Cheese for $5 or $6 and $3 beef stick Wisconsin. I did not see a full bar service however a 16 oz domestic beer can craft brews like Spotted Cow (a Wisconsin favorite) and Fantasy Factory are $6. Small bottles of wine, White Claw or Twisted tea cost $6. If coffee is your thing, they have you covered here there since they have Espresso (hot or cold) from $3.50 to $5.50. Iced coffee or Iced Chai Tea range from $4 to $5.50, and Frappuccino from $4.25 to $5.75. In addition, there is Acai, Dragon Fruit that costs $4 to $5. The workers are friendly and provide a good service and are very friendly. I would suggest that you wait until the game starts before you get in line. Atmosphere 2 The facility consists of two hockey rinks separated by the main lobby that is full of commerce from the local high school or club players and the fans from the Capitol game intermingling with one another. Speaking of the lobby, it’s small and cramped. There are two (2) box office windows and a food / beverage stand. The arena features a low-level ceiling, seats on both sides of the ice (the south side has many more seats than the north), and suite seating up above the north side that requires a separate entrance from the main lobby. The seven (7) suites provide a very nice view of the arena and also include food service. On one end of the arena there is a 2,000 square foot beer garden, the Eagles Nest. A video board is located on the opposite end of the Eagles Nest which provides some entertainment during stops in play and at intermission that includes fan interactions, player stats, and pregame videos. An old-time scoreboard which only shows the score, period and penalty minutes/player number hangs over center ice. The Capitols have not been very successful on the ice as there is only one banner honoring the 2021-22 Eastern Conference Champions. D.C. Eagle, an Eagle, is the official mascot of the team that can be seen throughout the building at certain times offering hugs to fans of all ages. There is a small gift shop in the building that has some t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies and jerseys. Of course, there is the obligatory chuck-a-puck. Neighborhood 1 Since the arena is located in a business park, there is not much to do in the direct area but there are plenty of places within 15 minutes. Near the Capitol Ice Arena is Monk's Bar and Grill (general bar food-sandwiches, wraps, burgers, chicken, pizza and salads). The burgers here are very good. A bonus is that the Monk’s gives a discount for the food if you show your Madison Capitols ticket. A meal here is about $12 to $18. Food choices within seven miles of the area include: Biaggi’s Italian Ristorante (classic Italian fare-pizzas, pastas, salads, soups and seafood/steaks). A meal here is approximately $18 to $25. Nitty Gritty (general bar food-sandwiches, wraps, burgers, chicken, pizza and salads). A meal here is about $12 to $18. Portillo's (Italian beef, burgers and salads for all you Chicagoland people), and Ancho & Agave (Mexican food). The Capital Brewing is within 10 minutes from the arena and is good places for drinks and a full food menu if you enjoy microbrews. Of course, downtown Madison is near so there are many more options there. There are plenty of major chain hotels that are reasonably priced within 10 minutes of the arena. In addition, the University of Madison is located approximately 15 minutes to the southeast of the arena. So expect to find plenty of college bars and restaurants in the area. Fans 3 The average crowd for a game is about 2,000 for the past few years. Like any other game in this level there are many parents with kids. Of course, there are your diehards who are invested in the game. The Capitols definitely appeals to a family crowd however there some promotional nights that are for the adults, i.e., $1 beer night, wine night. On the night I was there the crowd was kinda dead, there didn’t seem to be a lot of excitement. Access 5 The arena is not far off of Route 12 and Route 14 located in an industrial park area. There is plenty of parking at the arena and the surrounding streets. Once inside, one doesn’t have to look too far to find the main rink where the team plays. There are bathrooms inside the arena and also in the lobby. Also, plenty of staff members can be found to answer any questions that may be on your mind. Public transportation is not available to the arena, however Uber and Lyft are readily available Return on Investment 3 Capitols games have three regular price points for tickets: $15, $17, and $19. These are pretty much average prices within the USHL. In addition, All-You-Can-Eat and Drink tickets for kids ($25.25), adults ($36.50(non-alcohol) and $41.50 (alcohol) is available. The concession stands are reasonable as is the team merchandise and the parking is free. . Extras 2 The arena receives an extra point for the Beef Stick. The Capitols get an extra point because the night I was there the Capitols had military themed specialty jerseys with the names of platoons on the back instead of players names. I have not seen this before. Final Thoughts Being close to the University of Wisconsin and they love their hockey there, this is an arena / game that is a good alternative to collegiate hockey. The arena has a nice atmosphere, friendly fans and affordable pricing especially when you can come out and the stars of tomorrow.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Future Legends Complex 801 Diamond Valley Dr Windsor, CO 80550 Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. website Future Legends Complex website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 2,500 A Better Future Awaits Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. at Future Legends Complex This is a review of a facility that is an active work in progress. The Future Legends Complex in Windsor, CO, provides the home for Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. The Hailstorm plays in USL League One, the third tier of the American professional soccer pyramid. Unfortunately, the Hailstorm also plays smack-dab in the middle of a construction site. The Future Legends Complex has endured the COVID-19 pandemic, construction delays, and legal entanglements, slowing the progress of what aims to become a massive sports complex a little more than an hour’s drive north of Denver. Despite these hardships, the complex – and the stadium in which the Hailstorm will play – is moving toward completion. In addition to what will become TicketSocket Park, where the Hailstorm will play, the complex will have expansive sports facilities, retail, restaurants, and lodging, all with an eye toward hosting youth sports competitions. Much of this remains in various phases of construction and all of it surrounds the Hailstorm’s current pitch in a temporary facility on what will be developed into TicketSocket Park. Once this happens, a review of a Hailstorm game should dramatically improve. Entrance to Future Legends Complex, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Food & Beverage 3 Even in the facility’s inchoate state, there’s a decent variety of food and drink. The Hailstorm sells gourmet hot dogs at the stadium’s only dedicated concessions stand and each dog costs $9; a plain hot dog sells for $6. A couple of local food trucks, Panhandlers Pizza and Southern Twist Foods set up just outside the stadium and both are quite good. At Panhandlers, a slice of cheese, pepperoni, or sausage deep-dish pizza costs $8 and a gluten-free personal pizza is $12. Southern Twist has a grilled cheese-based menu. An example: its Heat Wave is a grilled cheese sandwich with a ¼-pound burger and pulled pork, drizzled with buffalo sauce and topped with jalapeno peppers ($14). Southern Twist also sells twisted and loaded nachos and fries, ($7-$13); grilled cheese sandwiches with fried bologna, fried spam (yes, spam), and a hot dog (all $8); and traditional, plain grilled cheese sandwiches ($5). There’s one dedicated bar at Future Legends, to the left of the stadium’s entrance once inside. It sells wine by the glass ($13), canned beer ($12 for domestic/import, $14 for premium/craft), cocktails ($10-$18), and hard seltzers ($10). Atmosphere 1 The atmosphere is difficult to assess because there isn’t any atmosphere – yet. Again, the Hailstorm plays in an active construction zone. Fans approach the stadium greeted by an electrical junction box, followed by a walk between cyclone fencing under which weeds have grown to reach the facility’s temporary ticket office. The stadium and many of the other parts of the complex remain under construction, with partially built structures and heavy equipment providing an unsightly backdrop. Plywood separates fans from the neighboring construction areas and the team shop is in a tent. The public address system can be difficult to hear, as well. There is some permanent seating along the stadium’s southwest corner, though it doesn’t offer great views of the action. Metal bleachers are also available on the west side of the pitch. Temporary metal bleachers behind the south goal provide the only other seating. Arguably, the best location to watch a Hailstorm home match is from the standing-room, east sideline. Fans can sit or stand behind temporary barricades, within inches of the pitch’s sideline. This positions the crowd close to the action with the dramatic view of the mountains to the west. But the entire seating arrangement is disjointed. Hopefully, the completed version of the stadium will have a more traditional seating approach. Neighborhood 1 For many of the same reasons that the atmosphere suffers at a Hailstorm game, so does the neighborhood. Much of what should make a great experience has not yet been built. Once that construction is complete, the Hailstorm should play in the middle of a complex that teems with bars, restaurants, and shops. Fans 3 No one will mistake a Hailstorm match for a Tottenham Hotspur or Newcastle United match. But there seems to be an enthusiastic response to the Hailstorm in Northern Colorado. The fans who attend are engaged and pay attention to the action on the pitch. Although the Hailstorm rated 10th out of 12 USL One teams in attendance (1,408 per game). Completion of the stadium and the surrounding complex should bring larger crowds, particularly as the league expands. Access 3 The only way to reach the Future Legends Complex is by car. It’s about seven miles west of Interstate 25, Colorado’s primary north-south interstate, and a half-hour from the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins. So the location isn’t central for many people. There’s also no way to reach the complex via mass transit. Several roads appurtenant to the complex are rural routes that do not appear ideal for bicycling to a match. Additionally, there is not great signage directing fans where to park or even where the stadium is – another change that would improve the match day experience. Once inside, there’s plenty of room to move around. Kids kick soccer balls without bothering anyone in the standing room area on the pitch’s east side. The concourse around the concession areas is sufficiently wide to permit fans to maneuver without issue. Return on Investment 3 A Hailstorm game is a decent bargain. Tickets cost $15 for the standing-room section on the east side of the pitch. Tickets for the bleachers behind the south goal cost $23, while fans can also buy tickets for the corner bleachers ($28) or bleachers on the west sideline ($33). Parking is free while concession prices are in line with reasonable expectations. . Extras 1 The Northern Colorado Rain FC will bring professional women’s soccer to Centennial State and will begin competing at TicketSocket Park in 2024 in the USL W professional league. Props to ownership for developing soccer in northern Colorado. Final Thoughts This review should rightly be an “Incomplete.” Much about what should provide the essence of a Hailstorm match is still under construction. Until that construction is completed – especially TicketSocket Park – fans will feel like they need PPE to enjoy a match. However, team ownership (which includes several retired professional athletes) aims to build an ambitious complex that should significantly enhance the Hailstorm experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey, & Ashvin Ladd. Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium 2550 S Floyd St. Louisville, KY 40208 Louisville Cardinals website L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 65,000 Cardinal Football in Louisville L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, formerly Cardinal Stadium, was built in 1998 for the Louisville football program and, since that time, has produced almost 100 wins at home for the Cardinals. The program's success this century led to a recently completed $63 million renovation to expand the north end and close off the stadium. The unique diamond-shaped stands increased the capacity from 42,000 to 61,000. Many who attended a game enjoy the game-day atmosphere, easy access to concession stands, friendly staff services, and a passionate fan base that expects winning football on the gridiron. The excitement is abundant before each game. Before each game, the fans are encouraged to meet the team when the Cardinals arrive for Card March, approximately 2:15 hours before kickoff. The players and coaches will meet at the Denny Crum Overpass before making their way to the stadium through the crowd behind the marching band and cheerleaders. Food & Beverage 4 Visitors have a variety of menu options from the built-in concession stands and portable kiosks operated by independent owners. The stadium has an array of concessions from old standards to new favorites. The Gridiron Grill locations feature burgers, hot dogs, nachos, fries, chicken tenders, candy, and other favorites. A few local restaurants make their presence known during games. Barry’s Cheesesteaks should satisfy the appetites of many, Cheezy Does It offers mac and cheese bites, and a Fistful of Tacos serves a variety of tacos with flavorful toppings. The Cards even have their beer, Cardinale, a blonde ale that is brewed by nearby Gravely Brewing Company. The concourse is filled with stands and portable carts, including Floyd Central BBQ, Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Moutoux Roasted Nuts, Ehrler’s Ice Cream, kettle corn, and the always-popular Ben’s Pretzels. Pepsi products are available, and alcohol from beer, wine, hard seltzers, and bourbon are offered in various points of the facility. The stadium features $4 beer options in select spaces, half-priced drinks from when the gates open until kickoff, and Grab & Go sections. Deep Eddy’s Bar, PNC Main Bar, Angel’s Envy North Bar, and the Railroad Bar are a few of the adult beverage spots. Atmosphere 4 Louisville enjoys a winner, and thankfully, there has been plenty to cheer for the past few seasons. Fortunately, they have a stadium that serves their needs and is accommodating with red chair-back seats and wide and open concourses. Well before kickoff, there are multiple campers, tents, and tables throughout the various parking lots, with fans tailgating. There are drinks, portable barbecues, generators, and the popular cornhole set. When it comes time for the game, many will walk towards the stadium in unison, sporting school colors red and black. Neighborhood 3 Louisville is a foodie town, and local restaurants are abundant. Royals Hot Chicken and Feast BBQ are both situated in the East Market District of the city. and offer affordable and delicious cuisine. Feast is known for its barbecue, but it also has excellent desserts (s’mores, chocolate chess pie, sides (vinegar slaw), and drinks (bourbon shakes). Another favorite in the neighborhood is the Garage Bar, housed in a former auto service garage, serving up ice-cold beer, Kentucky Bourbons, wood-fired pizzas, and Southern menu items. A great spot for a few rounds of cornhole or table tennis. If you are still looking for more options in the neighborhood, check out Grind Burger Kitchen and Akasha Brewing Company. The Louisville Slugger Museum, Churchill Downs, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience are great options for tours in the city. You will be able to keep yourself busy in town before or after a baseball game. 4th Street Live is a one-stop destination for retail, dining, and entertainment. The pedestrian-only covered street has two levels of fantastic nightlife. Make a weekend out of the visit and enjoy what Louisville has to offer during your stay. Fans 4 As said previously, Louisville enjoys a winner, and that can result in packed houses at Cardinals Stadium. There are times when one has to wonder where everybody is, especially on a very sunny late October weekend, but there are many in attendance who bleed the school colors, cheer on the team to victory, and are in angst when the opposing team scores another touchdown. Access 4 Cardinal Stadium is a few blocks off Interstate 65 and visible from the interstate. If you arrive early enough, you will find your way to the many parking lots surrounding the stadium. Police do a fine job guiding motorists through the pedestrian traffic and traffic lights. There is a single main concourse that wraps around the field and offers everything from concession stands to bathrooms and access to upper seating levels. The simplicity of the structure is a win for the fan who enjoys walking from point A to point B. Return on Investment 4 Depending on who the Cardinals are playing, ticket prices on secondary market websites can be as low as $20 against North Carolina State but increase to $150 for the same ticket against bitter in-state rivals Kentucky. The Kentucky game will likely be a packed house and a festive atmosphere. You should also not pay more than $20 to park for a game, but if you enjoy saving a buck or two like me, there are $10 lots at the Kentucky Fairgrounds parking lot, a close 15-minute walk. The food prices are reasonable and include half-off domestic pints before opening kickoff--it pays to arrive early at the stadium. Extras 4 Cardinal Stadium receives one point for the party deck above the south end of the stands. The area provides views of the area of the baseball field, Patterson Stadium, and Churchill Downs. There is also a statue of Johnny Unitas that deserves a photo at the game. Cardinal Stadium receives a second point for having half-off alcoholic drinks before the opening kickoff. Arrive a little bit early if you want to save money. There are also $4 12-ounce cans during the game at select areas. The Alley features an expansive courtyard complete with turf greens for yard games, live entertainment, drink options, and food trucks. The Alley will open four hours before kickoff and is free and open to the public. Cardinal Stadium receives a third and final point for the unique chevron-shaped north-end stand that creates a focal point at the facility. Final Thoughts Cardinal Stadium is a sharp-looking football venue that shines when the Cardinals are winning. The price to attend a game here is of supreme value and gives the university another stellar sporting facility to watch university sports. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 DCU Center 50 Foster Street Worcester, MA 01608 Worcester Railers website DCU Center website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 14,800 Off The Rails The DCU Center was built in the early 1980s as an alternative venue to the aging Boston Garden. Many national touring acts had stopped including Boston on their tours due to the inadequate facilities at the Garden. Worcester, located 47 miles west of Boston, is the second largest city in New England and was considered a suitable location for the new arena. Since its opening in 1982, the arena and adjoining convention center have hosted numerous sporting events, concerts, trade shows, and conventions. After serving as home to American Hockey League teams for 20 years, Worcester found itself without hockey when San Jose moved their farm team west in 2015. Into the void stepped the ECHL, which granted the city of Worcester an expansion team that began play in 2017. That team, the Railers, has qualified for the playoffs once during their five seasons in the ECHL, losing in the first round in 2018. Food & Beverage 4 Not all of the DCU Center’s concession stands are open for Railers games, but there are enough points of sale open to ensure short lines that move quickly. The menu does not stray far from standard arena fare, with hot dogs, sausage and pepper sandwiches, burgers, and chicken tenders comprising the bulk of the menu. Portable stands create some variety, offering pizza slices (Slice Slice Baby), meatball subs (Cousin Sal’s), and nachos (Nacho Mama’s). Several stands dedicated purely to snacks and ice cream are popular destinations for the younger fans in attendance. Pepsi products are featured at the DCU Center. Fans looking for an adult beverage will find a good selection of national brands. A variety of local craft beers, including several from Wormtown Brewery, are sold at the Craft Beer Corner. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at a Worcester Railers game will be very familiar to veteran minor league hockey fans. The expanded lobby at the DCU Center is put to good use, with an inflatable shooting cage and team store. Trax, the Railers mascot, will often be found here posing for pictures with fans. During the game, the team puts on a good show, with contests for fans during play stoppages, hype videos on the scoreboard, and t-shirt tosses. The very active Railers booster club sponsors 50/50 and other raffles every game, as well as road trips for fans. During intermissions, local youth teams and skate groups take the ice. The Bud Light Lounge and Coors Light Chill Zone are full-service bars located on opposite ends of the rink. Both bars overlook the ice and are open throughout the game to all fans. Neighborhood 4 Many visitors may not know this, but Worcester is the second-largest city in all of New England. The DCU Center is located right downtown in the Central Business District. While Worcester has historically been viewed in a less-than-positive light, it is a city on the rise, with many things to do and see. While not considered a college town, there are eight colleges within Worcester city limits. While Worcester as a whole has many fine options for dining, options are a bit slimmer near the DCU Center. Local chains 99 Restaurant and Uno’s Pizzeria draw the largest crowds around game time. The Hilton Garden Inn and Holiday Inn Express are located nearby. Many Railer fans will head to Off the Rails, right behind the DCU Center, for some live music or postgaming. Fans willing to branch out and explore the city of Worcester will be rewarded with many great options. Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row,” aka Shrewsbury Street, boasts over 40 restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual joints, brew pubs to diners, and everything in between. With many shops also located on this drag, it’s a great place for a stroll and some window shopping should the weather cooperate. Worcester made a big splash in the national sports scene with the construction of Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox, the top farm time of the nearby Boston Red Sox. The ballpark, located about a mile from the DCU Center, is the anchor of the up-and-coming Canal District. Fans looking for dining options will find many choices in that area. College sports fans will be pleased to know that the Holy Cross Crusaders play football nearby at Fitton Field along with basketball and hockey at the Hart Center. Fans 3 Attendance at Railers games has remained fairly steady over the team’s existence, averaging around 4,000 fans per game. This figure puts the team right in the middle of the ECHL rankings. As is the case for most minor league teams, a Railers crowd consists of a base of hardcore hockey fans (there are a lot of them in Central Massachusetts), supplemented by families and groups. The presence of many younger fans gives the DCU Center an energetic vibe. Access 4 Before you arrive at the DCU Center, plan. The venue has a very restrictive bag policy. Bags are not allowed into the arena. Nothing larger than a wristlet is allowed. Check the bag policy here. The DCU Center is located in the Central Business District of the city of Worcester. Located just two blocks from Interstate 290, the arena is easily accessible via exit 20. Parking is available in several surface lots in the area, as well as a parking garage across the street from the main entrance. There is plenty of on-street parking in the area for those who want to search for it. Most fans will enter the DCU Center via the arena’s main entrance on the corner of Foster Street and Major Taylor Boulevard. The newly redesigned entry plaza features a statue of longtime Worcester resident and Boston Celtics legend Bob Cousy, which was dedicated in June of 2021. Even though the concourse of the DCU Center is quite narrow, getting around is rarely an issue thanks to the small crowds present on most nights. Lines at the restrooms and concession stands are not a problem, either. Even when all stands are not open, you will not have to wait to purchase snacks. The seating bowl features folding stadium chairs with cupholders. The lower bowl features a very gentle slope, which makes some viewpoints less than ideal for hockey. Most of the upper deck is curtained off to make the venue seem less empty. Fans looking for some Railers gear will find two merchandise stands on the concourse. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Railers games start at $15 for upper-level end zone seats, with prices increasing to $35 for lower-level seats at center ice. Purchasing tickets on game day increases all ticket prices by an additional three dollars. The team offers several ticket packages that offer group discounts and added value with food vouchers. Check the Railers website ticket center for more details. Parking is plentiful around the DCU Center, with several lots and garages located within walking distance of the facility. The Mercantile Garage right across the street from the DCU Center charges $12 on game nights. There is on-street parking available for fans who wish to search for it. Just be careful when city meters are in operation. Concessions prices are a bit on the high side, but prices are comparable to other arenas in the area. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the statue of longtime Worcester native and Holy Cross alumni Bob Cousy, located in the DCU Center’s entry plaza. Displays of Railers founding season ticket holders and artists who have performed at the DCU Center can be found on the concourse. Final Thoughts The DCU Center is a solid if unspectacular place to catch some quality minor league hockey. Recent years have seen the city of Worcester raise its profile in the sporting world by courting the Pawtucket Red Sox to the city. When the American Hockey League left town, the ECHL wasted no time jumping into this thriving market. ---- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Penny J. Fall Gym Cain Athletic Center 300 Washington Ave. Bldg# CACATH2 Chestertown, MD 21620 Washington College Shoremen website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 500 To The Shore Washington College is a college in Chestertown, Maryland which was granted its charter in 1782. It is the 10th oldest college in the United States and one of the few to have received support from George Washington to honor him. The original desire was to have this college as the Eastern Shore Campus of a public “University of Maryland” with Annapolis’ St. John’s College the Western Shore counterpart. That obviously did not happen. Each year, Washington College awards the nation’s largest undergraduate literary prize. Since 1968, the Sophie Kerr Prize has been presented to one graduating senior who demonstrates the greatest literary promise. Washington has had sports since the 1800s. Men’s teams are known as the Shoremen; women’s teams are known as the Shorewomen. Many of the men's games here at Penny J. Fall Gym are doubleheaders so if you get there early you may want to catch the women's team in action as well. The Penny J. Fall Gym is the home playing venue for Washington College's volleyball and men's and women's basketball teams as well as the location of many athletic offices, the athletic training room, the equipment room, and several locker rooms. Penny J. Fall played an integral role in physical education instruction and the development of women’s athletics at Washington College. The gym was named in her honor in 2021. The gym is located within the larger Cain Athletic Center. Washington College participates in Division III sports as part of the Centennial Conference. Food & Beverage 1 There is no permanent food stand or any other options for sale at the gym. There does look like a former food stand is used just for storage now. There may be small options for sale in the lobby as well as there being a vending machine location. Atmosphere 4 This is a small typical gym for the schools of the Centennial Conference. Think of a high school type gym with two main bleachers and a smaller set along one of the baselines. There are some offices above the action with windows down to the floor. We did see some people watching the game from up there. Because of the small size, the gym can fill quickly and get loud. It has a nice vibrant atmosphere for a small college program like this. Neighborhood 4 Chestertown is a town and county seat of around 5,000 in Kent County, Maryland, and is located on what is known as Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It is 1.5 hours from Baltimore and Philadelphia. The nearby downtown district of Chestertown is full of history and sites for visitors, along with some nice shopping and dining. BAD Alfred’s Distilling, the Evergrain Bread Company, and Play It Again Sam are good spots for dining. Check out the High Street Town Dock and see if there are any charter boat trips through companies such as the Chester River Packet Company. Wilmer Park and the nearby area around the Hodson Boathouse at Washington College make for some nice waterside walking on a nice day. Fans 4 The fans fill the small gym well and create a good atmosphere for small college sports. Access 3 The actual town of Chestertown is not an issue getting around and accessing, but the problem is how isolated from major urban areas the town and college are. You will have to go way out of your way to visit Washington College. There may also not be much parking on campus as it is a historic campus and if there are many events going on, the available spots could be hard to find. Leave yourself plenty of time to find a good spot. The North Commons area may be a good place to start, but make sure to follow parking guidelines, especially for weekday events during regular school semesters. Return on Investment 5 Games are free, so the value is very good. Most of the games, such as the one we attended, are men's and women's doubleheaders so you get twice the action for that free admission. Extras 1 Not many extras, but the athletic hall of fame in the lobby offers some interesting reading at halftime. Final Thoughts The Penny J. Fall Gym is a small place but offers a nice sporting atmosphere for fans who are in the area.

Photos by Marc Viquez and Fans of Valley Field If you are heading to Grand Rapids, Michigan, this summer to see a Whitecaps game, there is another ballpark to visit. Valley Field, AKA Sullivan Field, is receiving a $4.2 million project that will restore the WPA ballpark close to its original design of 1937. The non-profit group Fans of Valley Field raised $3.7 million, including $1 million from the city of Grand Rapids. The restoration will be completed in several phases, with the first phase completed by the spring or summer of 2024. Its mission is to preserve the heritage and promote the usage of the ballpark. The ballpark has a new roof, a refurbished grandstand, a new main entrance, and a museum that chronicles its history. The visitor's dugout has been removed and lowered to prevent blocking views from the first rows of seating down the third base side. During a recent visit, the group's vice president, Paul Soltysiak, took me on a tour of the battered structure. He shared memories growing up on the field, from when he was a bat boy to when he played on the diamond as an adult. His efforts, along with many others of the volunteer group, have made an effort to restore the old ballpark to its former glory. “The grandstand was made of very strong and very dense timber. It was built to last; only 10 percent of the structure needs replacement, and the rest needs refurbishment.” We walked through a storage area and an old umpire room that was full of moments, which included a squalid groundskeeper jacket, an old wooden seat back, an outdated chalker for the baseball lines, a rusted can of Stroh’s beer, and the old lamps that once lit the stadium for ice skating. The ballpark opened in 1937 between the Dutch Kraft Paint team and the American Seaters. A newspaper ad promised 1,000 bags of peanuts to fans. Since that game, there have been several teams who have called the ballpark home. The Grand Rapids Black Sox of the Negro Leagues, Union High School, and the Grand Rapids Sullivans were the most prominent tenants. The Sullivans, managed by local businessman Bob Sullivan, led his club to four NBC World Series in Wichita and five tournament titles in Haarlem, Netherlands. The ballpark was renamed Sullivan Field in 1996 and is known by both depending on the fanbase. Interestingly, the ballpark was never fitted with lights. Lighting was used only during ice skating in the winter months. Other tidbits include that vendors were once forbidden to sell during games due to city compliances, and the ballpark never housed a minor league team during its history. There was more than enough talent that came through the gates of the ballpark. It includes over 70 men who would find themselves in the major leagues. Kirk Gibson, Mickey Stanely, Willie Horton, and Stubby Overmire all went on to play for the Detroit Tigers. Hall of Famers Ted Williams and Satchel Paige played games during visits. Soltysiak shows me various photos of the makeshift museum/concession stand/ restroom building. The walls include newspaper clippings, old team photos, scorecards, and images dating back almost 90 years. The photographs were donated from private collections. The photograph of the ice skating rink is the only known picture of the stadium suited for the winter tradition. Soltysiak added that there would be two to three full-time guys who would manage the ice. The right side was for skating, and the left side was for hockey. We walk towards the grandstand from the first base side and see what needs to be repaired. It will include replacing the wood seatings with synthetic dark green bleachers, pushing out the concourse three feet, and adding proper netting around the front of the grandstand. A majority of the wood in the grandstand will be sandblasted and repainted. The volunteer group is focused on keeping the diamond functioning. In the past few years, the stadium has hosted a Wiffle Ball tournament, an Easter Egg hunt, Blues Festivals, block parties, a Chili Cook-Off, and amateur and high school baseball games. There was a game that offered its version of Banana Ball played with a Halloween theme. “The upcoming phases will be funded by public and private money that we have raised,” Soltysiak added. “We are at about 91 percent of our $4.25 million goal. Over the winter, we need to figure out how the cash flow will affect the rest of the renovations and additions and if they will be done in two or three phases.” The ballpark will continue to host events during the renovations next year, and Soltysiak hopes to see all aspects of the phases completed in 2025. What was once a deteriorating ballpark is slowly coming to life again in Grand Rapids, a place where baseball and the community can enjoy for several more decades. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Gregory Koch Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center 1188 Ralph Shockey Drive Winchester, VA 22602 Shenandoah Hornets website James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 1,737 Oh, Shenandoah! Located in Winchester, Virginia in the Shenandoah Valley, Shenandoah University's athletic teams are known as the Hornets and compete in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The Hornets' basketball team competes at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center on the SU campus. The Wilkins Center opened in 2018 and is also home to the Hornets' volleyball team as well as indoor track. Said indoor running track surrounds the arena floor, and fans will walk across it to get into the arena on gameday. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand at the Wilkins Center, located at a small window next to the entrance. Options to eat are pretty basic. Hot dogs are $5. as are popcorn, nachos, and a soft pretzel with cheese. Strangely, there is no option to pay less for the pretzel and not get the cheese - you're getting it, or at least paying for it, whether you want it or not. Assorted chips and candy sell for $2. A wide variety of drinks sell for between $2 and $3, including bottled water, assorted sodas, Gatorade, tea (hot and iced), coffee, and hot chocolate. Alcohol is not for sale, however. Keep in mind the concession stand only opens about 20 minutes before tip-off, well after doors open to the arena. Atmosphere 4 Walking into the Wilkins Center will put you in a small lobby, featuring murals and plaques honoring Shenandoah athletics. From there, you will walk through a set of doors into the arena proper. Plastic bleachers line both sides of the court, with a couple of metal bleachers behind the basket closest to the entrance. There are a few chairbacks at center court on one side. Most seats are general admission, so fans can sit where they want. We were given conflicting information as to whether the first five rows of chairbacks are all reserved for donors, or only the ones specifically marked reserved. Either way, you should have no problem sitting above the first five rows of chairbacks if you want one, as long as you get there early enough. During pregame introductions, the lights go out in the Wilkins Center and a spotlight shines on the Hornets' players as they are introduced. During day games, light streams in from outside through the windows at the back of the gym, which reduces the effect of this a bit. Nonetheless, it is impressive for the Division III level. The Hornets also have cheerleaders, who are generally located behind the far basket (opposite side from the entrance) and perform during breaks in the action. There was a sign behind one set of bleachers advertising Shenandoah's Buzzin' Dozen Pep Band, but they were not in attendance when Stadium Journey visited. Neighborhood 3 Winchester is a small city located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. There are several restaurants located near the stadium, ranging from sports bars to barbecues to homemade ice cream. Since Shenandoah's campus is located near the highway, pretty much everything in Winchester is right there. While Winchester certainly isn’t a bustling city, it does have that small-town charm. History buffs may also want to visit the many Civil War sites in and around Winchester, which played a major role in the conflict. The city changed hands 72 times during the war and was known as the Shuttlecock of the Confederacy. Fans 4 Shenandoah draws reasonably well for the Division III level, and their gym will be mostly full for the typical home game. The side with the chairbacks will typically be more full than the other side. Some passionate fans, mostly but not entirely students, opt for behind the basket closest to the entrance where the metal bleachers are. They either sit in the bleachers themselves, or stand in front of them along the rope that separates the seating area from the court. After big plays at that end of the court (huge defensive plays in the first half or big baskets in the second), the fans in this area will run up to the ropes, shout, and cheer on the Hornets to celebrate the big play. Fans in other areas can get loud as well - you can certainly feel the buzz in the building after big plays. While it certainly doesn't match the crowd at most Division III arenas, Shenandoah fans are remarkably loud, loyal, and passionate for the Division III level. Access 4 The nearest highway to Shenandoah's campus is Interstate 81, and it is easily accessible via Exit 313B. Fans coming from the east or west will need to take State Route 7 or U.S. Route 50 at least part of the way, and while these are not full-blown highways, you can usually make good time. Once you get on the Shenandoah campus, there is a large lot next to the Wilkins Center that fans can park in. The lobby is small, but once you are in the arena proper, it is easy to move around thanks to the spacious track providing ample space. Restrooms are available inside the arena on the side where the entrance is. Women's rooms are in the corners while the men's room is in the center. They are modern, clean, and of a sufficient size for most crowds. There is also a family restroom next to the men's room. Return on Investment 5 According to the Shenandoah website, admission to Hornets games is just $6 with youth getting in for $4, and tickets must be purchased in advance through the Ticket Spicket app. However, when Stadium Journey visited, nobody was checking tickets at the entrance and we were able to walk in without scanning ours. It is unclear if this is always the case, but we have experienced similar things before at other Shenandoah athletic events. Even if tickets do cost $6, that certainly won't break the bank. When combined with affordable concession prices, a trip to a Shenandoah basketball game is an excellent value. Extras 3 One star for the loud crowd behind the basket, including fans right up against the ropes that surround the court. A second star for the plaques and displays in the lobby honoring Shenandoah athletics. A third and final star for the pregame introductions, featuring spotlights on the Shenandoah players. You rarely see such an impressive display at the Division III level. Final Thoughts Although Division III is the lowest level of the NCAA, you wouldn't know it from a trip to the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center. It is a modern arena with all the amenities you would expect, a great crowd, and an excellent atmosphere. For basketball fans in the Winchester area, a Shenandoah University basketball game is well worth the trip.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Walt Disney World Resort Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 runDisney Marathon Weekend website Walt Disney World Resort website Year Opened: 1971 Running Through Disney World The runDisney Marathon weekends have become a staple of Disney’s sports scene. After starting with just a marathon every January, the schedule now includes no less than four race weekends a year with 5k, 10k, half, and full marathons scattered throughout each weekend. Different themes offer fans and runners a different experience each time, making this one of the more unique and memorable marathons in the country. Without a doubt, this is certainly a special event to be seen by fans and runners alike. In addition, the runDisney expo and merchandise experiences are coupled with race registration and bib pickup at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex during race weekends. Food & Beverage 3 During races, the finish line complex at EPCOT features several food trucks set up that offer the basics of coffee, soft drinks, breakfast pastries, and various food options. For races that include a run through Magic Kingdom, Casey’s Corner is open the entire morning, offering its full menu of hot dog variations. A chili cheese dog starts at $11.49 and goes up to $13.49 for a footlong, as does the Bacon Mac and Cheese dog. A standard hot dog is $9.99 to $11.99, while the plant-based slaw dog costs $11.49. Most popular are the corn dog nugget meals for $8.99, while various options for French fries run $6.49. Drinks include bottled water, apple juice, and sodas for $3.50-$5.50, while the mint julep lemonade slushy costs $6.49. Atmosphere 5 The Disney Marathon weekends are incredibly fun for fans and runners. Each race weekend has a different theme, from the traditional full marathon weekend (January) to the Disney Princess (February), Star Wars (April), and fall themes (November) – each weekend offers a different feel to them. DJs are present at both the start gates and the finish line to get runners and fans energized (you are after all starting each run around 5 am), and they keep the energy going the whole time. Each time a corral of people is let onto the course, fireworks and pyrotechnics are shot off from the starting gate. When the winner of each respective classification crosses the line, confetti cannons and a breakable finish line greet them at the end of the course. For courses that run through Magic Kingdom, fans are allowed to travel from the parking lot at EPCOT to the Magic Kingdom via Monorail to watch the runners traverse the course through the park. In addition, each race features various characters that are available for photos with both fans and runners at the main finishing complex at EPCOT. Neighborhood 5 The race complex is located on the parking lot of EPCOT (except for the Fall Feast 5k, which is traditionally run at Disney’s Animal Kingdom), which is deep in the heart of Walt Disney World. Because of this, you’re not far from pretty much everything you need on your trip. For obvious reasons, the best place to stay would be at any of the Disney Resorts – guests of the resorts get free bus transport from the hotels to the starting gates, and then from the finish line back to their hotel. For food, anywhere on Disney Property is a go-to; Kona Café at the Disney Polynesian Resort is a popular stop for sushi and a south seas flavor for dinner, while California Grill at the top of Contemporary Resort is also a popular go-to for a more upscale experience. In addition, popular tourist stops include EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom theme parks. Also, Disney Springs, which is accessible via bus and car, is home to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities for the whole family. Fans 5 The fans here are unique, as they are almost all family and friends of runners participating in the events. Because of this, there’s a special feeling as runners run the courses and finish the races. Each fan has someone they’re rooting for and helping cheer on. No matter what, you feel the excitement in the air at all times, from the moment the first athlete crosses the line to the time when the balloon ladies who pace the back of the field arrive at the finish. Access 3 Getting to the race parking lot is pretty easy, but traffic for certain races can be a pain. Parking is free for the race at EPCOT (or Animal Kingdom for the Fall Feast 5k), but there is a decent walk from the parking lot to the corrals and finish line. Fans can also go through bag checks and security checkpoints in the parking lot as well. Depending on how the course is set up, traffic getting into the races can get backed up throughout Disney property, as many races block off commonly used roads (which are utilized as part of various courses). In addition, after the race is over parking can once again back up a bit getting out, as by that time regular park guests are arriving for their day at EPCOT. Return on Investment 4 Getting into the running complex and the grandstands is free, with most viewing areas also free – grandstands are set up all along the finishing stretch as well as at the start line for fans to root on their athletes. For longer races, such as the half and full marathons, fans can line up at various stages along the route to cheer on their loved ones. For races that go through Magic Kingdom, you can get a chance to see your loved ones race under Cinderella’s castle or run down Main Street USA, and for a price of $65 you can join the chEAR Squad during longer races (half and full marathons). This guarantees you a reserved grandstand seat near the finish line to get the best view of the runners crossing the line, as well as free beverages, snacks, and your own set of restrooms. Whenever races go into Magic Kingdom, those packages also offer special viewing areas in front of the castle to watch the runners pass under the arches in the park; for $120 the Race Retreat package offers runners and fans the chance to relax in an air conditioned area near the race finish line that includes food, drinks, a live video feed of the race, and live timing for runners. Extras 3 Runners and fans descend upon Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, as race registration and bib pickup is located here all weekend, as well as the runner expo and race merchandise. Here, you can shop for all the official runDisney gear and keepsakes you need, as well as check out some of the latest offerings from various companies for runners. Athletes taking part in the races also traditionally dress up as various Disney characters for each race, usually joining in with the respective theme for each event. Final Thoughts This is easily one of the more unique experiences for sports in Central Florida, and it has become a fan favorite. From former Olympians to everyday people, thousands descend upon the Walt Disney World resort for runDisney marathon weekends. Once you have been to an event, it is easy to see why people have made these events a part of Disney’s rich sports history.

This week, the podcast crew airs their grievances and talks about what grinds their gears in the sports world. Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page. Join us live as we record every other Tuesday at 7 PM Eastern at danlaw.tv.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Tori Bowe & Marshall Bell Soccer, Track and Field Complex 620 Meadowlane Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39401 Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles website Southern Miss Soccer Complex website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 1,500 Soccer at the Eagle's Nest The Southern Miss Soccer Complex opened in 1997, which was the first year of soccer at Southern Miss. For the first 25 years the Lady Eagles competed in C-USA, but beginning in 2022 Southern Miss athletics began their transition to the Sun Belt Conference. After 27 years of soccer action the Lady Eagles have advanced to 7 C-USA Tournaments and 1 Sun Belt Conference Tournament as of the 2023 season, with the best season being the 2018 season when they advanced to semifinals of the C-USA Tournament. Also located within the complex is the Marshall Bell Track, named after the former track and field coach at Southern Miss for 18 years. The track is home to the men's and women's track and field teams. In 2016 the entire facility was officially dedicated and renamed after Tori Bowie, the most decorated Olympic athlete from Southern Miss – the track and field star competed at Southern Miss from 2008-2012 and later won three Olympic Gold medals at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Food & Beverage 2 There is one food truck at the main entrance to the Complex and it just sells the basics. Sausage dogs, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, and candy round out the menu, and with prices ranging between $3 and $7 there is nothing that stands out or breaks the bank. Coca-Cola is the official soft drink provider of Southern Miss Athletics, and you can get bottled drinks for $5. However, my best advice for food options would be to instead get something to eat or drink next door at the Colludium Brewing Company, which is located in the parking lot probably 100 feet from the Soccer Complex. Atmosphere 3 The Soccer Complex is kind of hidden on the back side of campus, in quite a peaceful setting away from the noisy campus and the busy highway that runs right by it. The pitch runs north and south with an 800-seat grandstand located on the west side; 20 rows of metal bleachers make up the seating on that side. A small press box with a cool spiral staircase is located at the top of the bleachers – nothing really stands out regarding the seating except that all the seats are painted in the Southern Miss colors of black and gold. There is one main entrance into the Complex located under the bleachers, as well as a small gathering area behind the bleachers at the main entrance. The main entrance has a small table with posters and magnet schedules, and you can also find a plaque dedicated to Olympian Tori Bowie there as well. You can't beat the views from the bleachers – to the south you'll see the Long Leaf Trace bike trail that runs directly in front of the Complex. The Trace is a 44-mile paved trail that was once the site of a railroad that went into downtown Hattiesburg; the old looking building you can see to the south in the parking lot was once an old railroad storage warehouse. Today it has been renovated and is home to Colludium Brewing Company. To the north of the pitch you’ll see the locker rooms of the soccer and track teams. Once the match starts the atmosphere is pretty laid back, typical of a soccer match. They only play music during halftime and pre-game, and the PA announcer only speaks when Southern Miss scores. Don't come expecting any promotions or any fan engagement; instead the focus is squarely on the soccer match. Neighborhood 3 Hattiesburg (aka The Burg) is a decent-sized city of about 50,000 people, so it has everything you could want in a city and still retains that college town feel. The Burg has a wide selection of bars and restaurants, but unlike most college towns they are not located near each other – instead they are spread out throughout the city. Within walking distance of campus you'll find places like Patio 44, Brewsky's, and 4th Street Bar; if you’re looking for vintage Southern Miss memorabilia then 4th Street Bar is the place, located right on the Long Leaf Trace just down the street from the Soccer Complex in front of the Softball Complex. Another popular spot on the Trace and in the Soccer Complex parking lot is Colludium Brewing Company, Hattiesburg's newest brewery. Here they have a nice outdoor patio overlooking the Trace and the Soccer Complex, which makes for a great spot to have a beer before a soccer match. Closer to downtown you'll also find popular spots like Keg & Barrel, The Porter, Hattiesburger, Fairley Wings, and Nostalgia. In Hattiesburg there is also plenty to do for all ages – for families there's the Hattiesburg Zoo and Serenghetti Springs Water Park, while downtown has the popular Pocket Museum, Mississippi's tiniest museum. Located in an alleyway downtown, this popular museum has a different theme each month; we can't tell you where the alley is because that's part of the charm of the Pocket Museum, i.e. being able to find it. If coming to a match during October be sure to check out the Pocket Museum's Halloween display as well as Boo Zoo, located about a mile away from the Soccer Complex. For shopping in town there are plenty of chain stores, as well as Turtle Creek Mall. Another popular spot is the Lucky Rabbit – located downtown, it's a two-story vintage store with tons of antiques and different vendors with all kinds of little displays; this is a one-of-a-kind store and a must visit if you are coming to Hattiesburg. It also has a ton of Southern Miss memorabilia, and Hattiesburg also has a really cool Halloween theme with scary movies being shown in the street, plus giant skeletons all around town. If you are into the outdoors there is also Paul B. Johnson State Park, just south of Hattiesburg, which is an excellent spot for camping, while another popular pastime is rafting down the Okatoma River that runs right through Hattiesburg, all the way to the coast. Fans 3 You can usually find a couple hundred fans at a Southern Miss Soccer match; the grandstand holds about 800 seats and fills up pretty quickly, especially for weekend games. If you can't get a seat in the bleachers, the grass along the fence line makes for a great place to watch the game. I saw many fans bring folding chairs and sit along the fence line – you can even get closer to the action this way. Many of the visiting fans sit in the grass as well, to the north of the bleachers. The Southern Miss soccer team is pretty diverse, with the 2023 team having members from 7 different countries. A cool thing they do here is have flags of all those countries on display at the top of the bleachers, so as you enter the Soccer Complex you will be greeted by the flags of Hungary, Iceland, France, Ireland, England, Canada, and the U.S flying high above the bleachers. The Southern Miss student body also has many students from other countries who come out to support the soccer team – students from those countries are encouraged to bring their own flags as well, so you will see other flags flying such as Mexico or Sweden. Access 3 Getting to Hattiesburg shouldn't be a problem, as it is one of the more accessible cities in the state, located about an hour and a half from the coast, New Orleans, Jackson, or Mobile. If coming from out of town the main road into The Burg is I-59; once in town the main two roads in Hattiesburg are Highway 49 and Hardy Street, with Southern Miss’ campus sitting at the intersection of the two. Depending on the time of day Hattiesburg is notorious for traffic, especially on Hardy Street, so plan accordingly, as many of the weekday soccer matches start in the mid-afternoon. The Soccer Complex is tucked away on the back side of campus to the east of Highway 49. The best way to get to the venue is to take the 4th Street exit off Highway 49; when you see the softball field behind 4th Street Bar, go a little further east and you will see Colludium Brewing Company, with the Soccer Complex sitting behind it. For weekend matches parking is extremely limited – the Brewery shares a parking lot with the Soccer Complex, so when Colludium is packed it will be hard to find a parking spot. My recommendation would be to park at the Softball Complex and walk down the Long Leaf Trace to get to the Soccer Complex. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are free, parking is free, and concessions are cheap – the only issue is the limited parking in the parking lot, especially for weekend games. However, I consider this a good return on investment, and the facility being named after an Olympic Gold Medalist is always a plus. There isn't a lot going on besides the soccer match either, so don't come expecting a lot of music or giveaways, but you will get to watch a soccer match in a beautiful setting. Extras 3 One extra for the complex also housing the Southern Miss Men's and Women's track and field teams; the track also hosted the 1997 C-USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, as well High School State Championship meets. Another extra for the facility being named after Tori Bowie – the Pisgah, MS native was a two-time NCAA long jump champion during her time here, followed up by winning three medals at the 2016 Summer Olympics (gold in the 4 x 100 m relay, silver in the 100 m, and bronze in the 200 m). She also took bronze and gold in the 100 m at the 2015 and 2017 World Championships. Sadly, Tori would pass away in April 2023 at the young age of 32; it is quite fitting that the most decorated athlete to come out of Southern Miss, and probably one of the most decorated Olympic athletes to come out of Mississippi, will forever have her legacy honored at the track where she had so many memorable runs en route to the Olympics. One extra for the Long Leaf Trace and Brewery providing the backdrop to the Soccer Complex; it is possible to bike here from almost anywhere in Hattiesburg via The Trace, and almost all the Southern Miss athletic venues are located along the old railroad which is now a paved trail. The Trace provides a scenic way to bike to the Soccer Complex, especially on a crisp cool fall night for a soccer match.

Courtesy of the Oakland Ballers There might be another ballpark to visit this summer for Stadium Journey readers. The Oakland Ballers have plans to keep baseball alive in town as an expansion club in the independent Pioneer League. The Oakland B’s expansion club is “stealing baseball back” and set to join the independent Pioneer League for the 2024 campaign. It is co-founded by Entrepreneur Paul Freeman and Bryan Carmel, a veteran writer and producer. They have scheduled a 2 p.m. ET news conference on Tuesday with Oakland Mayor Sheng Tao and other city officials. The B’s hope to play at Laney College's baseball stadium in downtown Oakland. The venue has a limited seating capacity and will be more than likely expanded for the new franchise. It is the site the A’s had once planned to build a new ballpark before announcing their decision to relocate to Las Vegas, NV. The franchise has raised $2 million from investors and started a fundraising campaign to invite others to become part-owners of the team. The ball club has introduced its primary logo and team colors of green and gold, similar to that of its major league counterpart. The B's will be the first California entry in the loop. The PL consists of 10 teams - spread across Montana, Idaho, Colorado, and Utah - and play a 96-game schedule from May to September. The emphasis is to draw more fans to home games this summer than the A's at the Oakland-Alameda County Stadium. "Unlike the A's, the B's vow to never leave The Town," the Oakland Ballers said in a statement. "The Oakland B's will be for Oakland, by Oakland, and forever in Oakland. The Oakland B's believe that sports teams should serve their communities — not the other way around." ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Progressive Auto Sales Arena 1455 London Road Sarnia, ON N7T 7N2 Sarnia Sting website Progressive Auto Sales Arena website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 5,500 Sarnia is Buzzing with the Sting The Progressive Auto Sales Arena is home to the Sarnia Sting of the Ontario Hockey League. It has a seating capacity of 5,500 and sits on the campus of Lambton College. The building debuted in 1998, four seasons after the Sting arrived, and features 43 luxury suites, two full-size NHL rinks, and a full-service restaurant. In 2017, the arena received a new scoreboard, renovated the suites, added team colors and murals on the concourse walls, a new dressing room for players, and, in 2023, new dasher boards and a Kahlenberg goal horn. The franchise began operations in 1969 as the Cornwall Royals in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The team captured the Memorial Cup in 1972, 1980, and 1981. The following year, the club transferred to the Ontario Hockey League and, in 1992, relocated to Newmarket, Ontario. The Royals would spend two seasons before being sold and moved to Sarnia. The renamed Sting played at the Sarnia Arena, now known as the Pat Stapleton Arena, while plans were drawn for a modern facility that would open in October 1998. Food & Beverage 4 The arena offers an array of food and drink options during the hockey game. There are several Stammer’s Stations located in the corner of the concourse offering a bulk of items from pizza slices, hot dogs, burgers, nachos, chicken tenders, boneless chicken bites, crispy chicken tenders, fries, and poutine. Many of these items can be upgraded for a few dollars more as a combo with fries and a drink (Pepsi products). The alcohol selection includes domestic and premium tall cans of Coors/Miller Lite, Coors Original, Molson Canadian, Molson OV, and Sting Light Lager. Other options include hard root beer, seltzer, and wine. The Rink Side Restaurant has its menu and drink options included with an additional price of a ticket. The team offers a carving station of sliced roast beef, grilled onions, and horseradish sauce on a soft bun. Atmosphere 4 The Progressive Auto Sales Arena is primarily made for hockey, and it is evident by the open concourse design, the sunken ice rink, standing-room-only railings, and details on the walls that showcase the Sting colors of black and yellow from former players, concession stands, and aesthetics. It is cramped due to the single concourse that wraps around the entirety of the building but features a team store stocked with jerseys, shirts, stuffed animals, hats, and other paraphernalia. The Rink Side Restaurant is separate from the seating bowl, offering fans views of the arena with a full-service bar, and various banners are on display honoring past players and individuals who have made their mark on hockey that are from Sarnia. Buzz and Honey are the official mascots of the team. They can be seen throughout the game, providing hugs and photo opportunities with fans. There is also a corner bar area that offers fans a little nook to enjoy a beer while talking with others during intermission. There is also the goal horn that is deafening after a Sting goal. Neighborhood 3 The arena is on the campus of Lambton College and within walking distance of the Lambton Mall and other retail stores and restaurants. Don’t be surprised to see fans in Sting game shopping at Walmart or Canadian Tire stores after the game. Several national chains include burger joints Harvey’s and Swiss Chalet Chicken. However, there are a few casual restaurants: Lonzo’s Kitchen, Crabby Joe’s, Twisted Arm, Chuck’s Roadhouse, and Stoke’s Inland Grill. Downtown Sarnia is about a 10-minute drive from the arena. The Pat Stapleton Arena still houses Junior B hockey, while Imperial City Brewhouse and Refined Fool Brewing Company are worth checking out. Fans 4 The main concourse is cramped and gets dense during intermission. It is full of fans dressed in Sting gear, young fans blowing horns and ringing cowbells, and other fans enjoying a bite to eat or drink. It has been a down year for the club in the standings, but the crowd is still “buzzing” during home games. Access 3 The arena is easily accessible from 402 and 40 on the east side of town. The arena is nestled into the campus buildings, with plenty of parking in lots surrounding it. Once inside, the main concourse is small and gets packed during the first and second intermissions of the game, leading to long lines or weaving in and out of traffic to get back to your seats. Return on Investment 4 There are three-tier ticket pricing: $16 for the Energy Zone behind the goalie, $24 for regular seats, and $28 for club seats. Parking is free for the game, and concession prices range from $4 for a medium pop, $5.50 for a hot dog, and $9.75 for a domestic can of beer. The meal deals include fries and pop and sell between $12 to $15. Extras 3 The Sting earns a point for the aesthetics around the building that tie it to the team. Murals, team colors, banners, and bee-themed areas let fans know they are at the home of the Sarnia Sting. The Sting retired Steven Stamkos’s number 91. Stamkos went on to star for the Tampa Bay Lightning after his junior playing days and led the team to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. The team also honors local player Shawn Burr and former NHL referee and current analyst Kerry Fraser. The Platinum Club offers a diverse menu, great views of the two rinks, and a party area for the kids. There is a full-service bar. Final Thoughts Progressive Auto Sales Arena is a quaint, hockey-friendly building that offers what many want out of a night of junior hockey. It is not flashy, offers vast concourses, or some of the bells and whistles an hour away in London and Windsor, but it does not have to. It is a cozy place to watch hockey with a few thousand rabid fans. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com