Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Mercedes-Benz Stadium 1 AMB Drive Atlanta, GA 30313 Atlanta United FC website Mercedes-Benz Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 42,500 Unite and Conquer When entering the gates at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for an Atlanta United FC soccer match, one of the items that will catch a fan’s attention is the large banner above the gates that confidently states “Unite & Conquer” in gold lettering on a black background.  This slogan aptly describes the life of the Atlanta United Football Club.  Taking to the pitch for their first season in 2017, Atlanta United has been a runaway success.  They have led Major League Soccer in attendance every season they have played, with the exception of the 2020 Covid 19 season.  They have been dubbed the “Loudest Pitch in MLS” according to Newsweek magazine.  They even won the MLS Cup in just their second season, 2018.  Owned by Home Depot magnate and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, Atlanta United FC enjoys a synergy with the NFL that no other MLS club can boast. The home pitch for Atlanta United is Mercedes-Benz Stadium.  Built in 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a modern wonder with a downtown location next to the site of the Georgia Dome, the stadium which it replaced.  It is publicly owned by the Georgia World Congress Authority and boasts a capacity of over 42,000 for soccer, which can easily be expanded for larger events.  The retractable roof, ring video board and unique design make Mercedes-Benz Stadium one of the most recognizable stadiums in the world. Food & Beverage 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium is well known for a variety of concession options including many cheaper options.  Fans will have no difficulty finding food options.  Some highlights of the menu, to go along with the expected stadium fare, include Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, Tex-Mex options from Moe’s, Capital District Pizza, Chick-Fil-A, and West Nest Chicken.  The beer and alcohol selection is large and varied throughout the stadium.  Being Atlanta, Coca-Cola products are, of course, the soft drink supplier for Mercedes-Benz Stadium, however, self-serve fountain stations are found throughout.  This not only offers value to the consumer, but also reduces lines. Atmosphere 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the most unique and recognizable sports facilities in the world.  It all begins on the exterior which features a multi-sided design, which gives it a star-like look to it.  The triangular panels are translucent offering plenty of natural light into the stadium.  However, a recent development at the stadium has large Mercedes-Benz ads on some of the panels, which take away from the exterior look and make it look cheaper.  The pre-game tailgating area is to the north of the stadium, known as the Home Depot Backyard.  Upon entering the gates at the east end, fans will find a massive metallic falcon, more a nod to the NFL team than soccer, with a massive Atlanta United scarf draped over its neck. Inside the gates there are a number of pre-match items to keep the interest of fans before heading into the stadium proper.  Picture opportunities are plenty at the numerous player jersey standups.  There are also a few games fans can play as well as a music stage.  Inside the stadium, fans will be overwhelmed with the massive concourses.  The ceilings are high and plenty of natural light comes in through the translucent panels.  One would expect the decor inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium to scream Atlanta Falcons.  No doubt there are plenty of items that will remind fans of the NFL team, but a refreshing change is the number of items that are Atlanta United and soccer specific.  Massive nets holding a plethora of soccer balls hang from the concourse ceiling, framed soccer jerseys high in a permanent location and player murals and collages are some of the notes that state plainly that Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not just where Atlanta United plays, but it is the HOME of Atlanta United.  The main team store is packed with all items Atlanta United. The seating bowl surrounds the Field Turf pitch, which is west to east oriented.  The first and second levels of seating are available for soccer matches with the majority of seats curtained off in the third deck.  The exception is the west end, which remains open.  The eyeline is immediately drawn to the retractable roof and the massive ring LED board just below it.  The supporters section is found in the east end and is named The Gulch.  The Gulch is the focus of much of the pre-match festivities.  The players enter the pitch from the north side, in the traditional manner with both squads side by side.  Pyro is part of the east side and the ritual of hammering in The Golden Spike is done at the bottom of The Gulch, signifying the beginning of the match.  Overall, there is plenty to keep the attention of fans and it is difficult to imagine an atmosphere that could be better for Major League Soccer. Neighborhood 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in Downtown Atlanta, an underrated tourist destination. Being Downtown in a major metropolitan city offers a number of options for pre or post-game food and drink. Some options close by include Max’s Coal Oven Pizza, The Food Shoppe, Sway, Polaris and Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.  There are a bunch of other sporting options in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons  share Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Atlanta Hawks  play right next door at State Farm Arena. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is also the annual home of the Peach Bowl , now part of the College Football Playoff. The Atlanta Braves  play outside of the Atlanta city limits in Cumberland. Other options include the Atlanta Dream , Georgia Swarm  and Gwinnet Stripers . College sports are also prevalent with Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football , basketball  and baseball  and Georgia State Panthers football , basketball  and baseball  among other sports. There are also a ton of other tourist options in Atlanta. Fans should consider checking out the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Olympic Park and College Football Hall of Fame. There are plenty of hotel options that are close. The Omni is an iconic Atlanta staple. Other options close by include Holiday Inn, Hyatt and Marriott. Fans 5 Atlanta United is renowned for having the strongest support in Major League Soccer.  Outside of the 2020 season, Atlanta United has led the league in attendance every season.  For the 2025 season, Atlanta United remains at the top of the league in attendance averaging over 44,000 at the time of writing.  For the match that was reviewed, a disappointing 38,000 was the official attendance, however, the match was on a Wednesday night and the 2025 Atlanta United squad was in 13th place at the time of writing.  Although there was definitely not 38,000 fans in the building at the match which was reviewed, it was still very loud and Atlanta United fans have earned their reputation.   Access 4 Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in Downtown Atlanta, at the northeast corner of MLK Jr Drive and Northside Drive.  It is west of Highway I-85 and north of I-20.  Getting to the stadium is not too difficult if sufficient time is given, but Atlanta traffic can definitely be an issue.  There are a number of surface lots and parking garages downtown.  Pre-purchasing parking using an appropriate app is probably the best idea for new fans.  The parking deck on Centennial Olympic Park Drive is a very convenient option.  For fans wishing to take public transit, the MARTA station is right there.  Fans should check the MARTA website for fares, schedules and maps. Inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, getting around is surprisingly easy given the population at events there.  The concourses are large and spacious.  The washroom facilities are adequate for the facility. Stadium Journey recognizes that the security protocols for major sporting events are in constant flux.  Stadium Journey strongly recommends consulting Atlanta United FC  and Mercedes-Benz Stadium  websites for the most up to date security information including prohibited items and bag policy. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Atlanta United FC start at $31 and go up to $219.   According to the Fan Cost Index, Atlanta United is the 20th most expensive experience in MLS.  Ticket prices may be as expensive or higher than other teams in the league, but as compared, concession prices are much lower.  Parking can be found for a decent price or public transit is convenient.  Fans will definitely have a great time at an Atlanta United match and the return on investment is strong. Extras 3 An extra mark for the success that Atlanta United FC has enjoyed, vaulting them to the top as one of the premier MLS experiences. An extra mark for the unique design of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. An extra mark for Mercedes-Benz Stadium giving fans the feel that it is a true home for Atlanta United FC. Final Thoughts When traversing the experiences of Major League Soccer, Atlanta United FC stands out as being in the top echelon.  The team has taken an NFL venue and made it their own in a way that no other team has.  In the end soccer fans in the USA must put a visit to Mercedes-Benz Stadium at the top end of their bucket list.  Unite and Conquer. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Polar Park 122 Madison St Worcester, MA 01610 Worcester Red Sox website Polar Park website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 9,508 Worcester’s Blue Bandbox   In February 2015 a group of investors, including former Boston Red Sox President Larry Lucchino, purchased the Pawtucket Red Sox from the family of the late Ben Mondor. The ownership group immediately began a search for a new ballpark, as the Pawsox’ longtime home, McCoy Stadium, was deemed unfit without major reconstruction. After several proposed plans in Pawtucket and Providence fell through, it was soon announced that the team would relocate to Worcester (pronounced “Woo-stah”), MA for the 2021 season.   The new facility would be a part of a proposed live-work-play development. Cost for the ballpark alone would reach $159.5 million, making this the most expensive minor league stadium ever built. Polar Beverages purchased naming rights for the ballpark. The Red Sox, colloquially called the “WooSox,” played their first game on May 11, 2021.   Worcester was once home to a Major League Baseball team. The Worcester Worcesters (alternately known as the Brown Stockings or Ruby Legs) played in the National League from 1880 to 1882. The first perfect game in Major League history was thrown in Worcester, by Lee Richmond against the Cleveland Blues on June 12, 1880. The Worcester team was dropped by the league to make way for a franchise in Philadelphia that became the Phillies.   Food & Beverage 5   Concessions have become a point of emphasis in all new sports facilities as a way to maximize the fan experience. Polar Park is no exception, as there is great quality and variety in the concessions offered (a complete map of concessions can be found here ). There is a particular emphasis here to use local companies and products (which will be a recurring theme throughout this review).   Among the local favorites fans can sample at a WooSox game are slices from Wonder Bar Pizza, hot wieners from George’s Coney Island and sausages from The Sausage Guy. Since we’re in New England, it’s only natural that you can grab a lobster roll or clam chowder at the cart in right field.  If you are looking for a snack, personal-sized Table Talk Pies (their factory is located next door to Polar Park) are sold at all stands for just $2. Be warned that concessions lines are long, although they do move well.   The cola wars have skipped Polar Park entirely, as the ballpark sponsor, Polar Beverages, provides the drinks here. If visiting from out of town, Stadium Journey recommends the orange dry. The best way to describe one is it tastes like an orange soda and a ginger ale had a delicious soda baby.   The craft beer game is strong at Polar Park. Drafts from Wachusett, Harpoon, Sam Adams and Greater Good are featured throughout the ballpark. The star of the show at Polar Park is Worcester-based Wormtown Brewery, which offers up several brews, including “Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy,” “Mass Whole,” and a mash-up with Table Talk Pies, “Blueberry Lemon Pie Ale.”   If all these choices don’t do it for you, take a walk on Summit Street, open behind the center field stands during games. The Taste of Worcester, featuring a rotation of local restaurants, can be found here alongside other favorites.   Atmosphere 5   Fans of the Red Sox AAA franchise who have followed the team back to its days in Rhode Island may remember the strong community connection the team had in Pawtucket. In Worcester, that connection has been turned up to eleven. While planning the construction of Polar Park, fan feedback and ideas were actively solicited and used, and this process has continued over the team’s early years. As you look around the park, it’s evident that fan input is taken to heart.   Park is a bandbox, with precious little foul territory and fans right on top of the action. There are numerous social gathering areas throughout the ballpark that all fans can access, giving the park a community feel and a lively buzz during games.   The giant, if poorly placed, video scoreboard in left field is put to good use with game stats, replays, and features throughout the game. The sound system is clear and there is noise and activity going on throughout the park all game long. The team’s unique mascot, Smiley Ball, has been the subject of much derision, but even it has a Worcester-related back story. Harvey Ball, a Worcester native, designed the famous yellow Smiley Face (think “have a nice day”) in 1963. Smiley Ball now heads a team of four mascots that roam Polar Park and help with promotions all game long.   Of course, with Worcester located firmly in Red Sox territory, there’s no doubt that this is a Red Sox affiliate. Replicas of Red Sox championship rings stand in the entrance plaza and one of the duck boats from the 2007 World Series parade sits atop the left field berm.   Neighborhood 3   Polar Park is in the Canal District of Worcester, traditionally one of the city’s least desirable neighborhoods. However, recent years have seen a revival, with development happening, including the nearby Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center . The ballpark was planned to be the centerpiece of a mixed-use tax district designed to pay off the cost of the ballpark, but those developments have been slow to come to fruition and have been severely downsized . One project, the so-called “Left Field Building,” has been terminated , leaving only a foundation completed behind the left field berm.   Green Street, just a few blocks from Polar Park, is home to several bars and restaurants worth a visit before or after a WooSox game. The Worcester Public Market contains several locally owned specialty shops and eateries, including Wachusett Brew Works. Other spots to check out near Polar Park include the Miss Worcester Diner, the Hanover Theater and the Worcester Historical Museum.   Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row,” located on Shrewsbury Street, is located just over a mile from Polar Park. With more than 40 restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining, diners to brew halls, there is something for all tastes here. With a plethora of shops and eateries, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on a beautiful summer day. The DCU Center, home of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers , is located just over a mile away in the Central Business District.   Fans 5   Worcester couldn’t be more excited to be the new home of the Red Sox’ top farm team. With Fenway Park located a mere 44 miles to the east of Polar Park, Worcester lies firmly in Red Sox Nation. The fans here are as knowledgeable and dedicated as any in the nation.   The WooSox have finished among the leaders in all of the minor leagues in attendance in each of their four seasons in Worcester. The team has sold over 500,000 tickets in each of the past three seasons. They are the only team in the minor leagues to have accomplished this feat.   Access 3   Located in Worcester’s up and coming Canal District, Polar Park is just a few blocks from Interstate 290 and less than a mile from Worcester’s Union Station. But somehow, it’s not as easy to get to as you might think. Traffic in the area can be busy, and the notorious Kelly Square does not help matters. For those not familiar, Kelly Square is an intersection near  the ballpark where several of Worcester’s busiest streets come together in the most random way possible. As part of the construction of Polar Park the intersection was redesigned, improving flow, but it is still a bottleneck point when a big crowd meets rush hour traffic.   Polar Park is wedged into a small footprint, making for some unique design choices, and space is at a premium. There is a small entry plaza leading to front entrance that screams “warehouse” more than “ballpark.” While this design choice makes Polar Park stand out from the red brick and green seat new “cookie cutter” design, it has met with some derision by fans.   A major negative with the design of Polar Park is the small footprint. Due to the lack of space, the concourse is very narrow and is tough to navigate when a big crowd is present. When navigating the park, fans will encounter many areas where you actually have to leave the park, climb stairs or enter areas that are not paved. There are some, let’s call them unique, design choices here.   Beyond the seating bowl, fans will find several group areas where fans can congregate and spread out a bit. Polar Park boasts a great deal of standing room and alternate spots from which to catch the action.   Return on Investment 2   Much has been made of the expense of WooSox tickets, and yes, we’re not in Pawtucket anymore. Premium seats are priced at $61,  but on the plus side, the vast majority of seats are available for less than $30. Box seats behind home plate are priced at $40, with the cheapest seats in the seating bowl sold for $25. The cheapest seats in the ballpark, general admission spots on the berm, now go for $16 apiece.   Check the WooSox website for complete seating options .   Parking is another area where Polar Park has received criticism. While the club boasts of 7,300 parking spots within a half mile of Polar Park, most of them hardly seem convenient. These lots charge between $15-$30 to park and require a walk through often poorly-lit roads through less than stellar neighborhoods. A small parking garage is located right across the street from the ballpark on Madison Street, which charges $23 for a spot. Complete parking information can be found here.  There is little on-street parking in the area.   Concession prices are higher than other venues in the area. While not as expensive as a trip to Fenway Park, be ready to spend a few dollars when you head to Polar Park.   Extras 5                                                                                                 There are so many special features in the design of Polar Park it would be tempting to give more than the maximum score in this category. From the inclusion of Worcester native Harvey Ball’s Smiley Face to the artwork produced by local artists and the inclusion of local vendors into the concession menu, this ballpark screams Worcester in every nook and cranny. Even the light towers are shaped like hearts, a nod to Worcester’s nickname as “the heart of the Commonwealth.”   The entry tower contains a memorial to the Worcester Six, a group of firefighters that perished fighting a warehouse fire not far from the ballpark site. Uniform number 6 has been retired by the team in honor of these firefighters. Also notable as you enter the ballpark is a display of Ted Williams-themed artwork and the Pawtucket Red Sox Hall of Fame. It’s the only recognition of the franchise’s 50 years in Rhode Island.   The many unique vantagepoints from which to watch the game earn another extra point. The numerous social gathering spots, such as the Worcester Wall and The Bridge maximize capacity in this bandbox of a ballpark.   Not content to sit on their laurels, the WooSox continue to add new features to Polar Park every year. Recent additions include the WooSox reward app,  which allows fans to earn points at games and participating businesses to redeem for WooSox merchandise and experiences, and virtual reality games inside Polar Park. Final Thoughts   Polar Park has proven to be a very divisive ballpark over its brief history. From the relocation of the iconic PawSox to the price tag for the new facility to the unique look and design of the ballpark, Polar Park seems to have created as many critics as fans. But a closer look at the ballpark shows an incredible attention to detail and connection to community. Like the park’s signature beverages, it may not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying the positive impact this blue bandbox has had on the Worcester community.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Bullens Field 135 King St. Ext. Westfield, MA 01085 Westfield Starfires website Billy Bullens Field website Year Opened: 1938 Capacity: 1,000 Billy Bullens Field   Originally named Municipal Field, Billy Bullens Field opened in 1938 as part of a larger project of ball fields, playgrounds and tennis courts constructed by the Works Progress Administration. Billy Bullens was the assistant supervisor of the facilities and oversaw maintenance of the park for many years. The field was dedicated in his honor in the early 1980s.   The Westfield Starfires play in The Futures Collegiate Baseball League, a summer wood-bat league featuring teams from throughout New England. In addition to serving as home of the Starfires, Bullens Field is the home field for Westfield High School and Westfield Technical Academy. The ballpark hosted the Babe Ruth 14-year-old World Series in 2016 and the 13-year-old World Series in 2019.   The name “Starfires” pays homage to the city of Westfield’s deep connection with the Air National Guard stationed at Barnes Airport in Westfield. The Lockheed F-94 Starfire was the first United States Air Force jet equipped with an afterburner and was the first jet-powered all-weather fighter to enter combat during the Korean War in January 1953.   The Starfires began play in 2019. During their seven seasons in the Futures League, the Starfires have qualified for the playoffs twice, reaching the league finals in 2024. In 2025 Brandyn Garcia became the first Starfire alumnus to reach the Major Leagues when he pitched for the Seattle Mariners on July 21.   Food & Beverage 2    There is a concession stand on the third base side of Bullens Field. A limited menu is available, featuring pizza slices, snack items and beverages. Some of the more unique items sold here are Mini Melts, Slim Jim and pickles in a bag. Of course, traditional baseball snacks, such as cotton candy, chips and sunflower seeds can be found here too. Most nights there is a food truck that sets up shop down the left field line, but sadly, there was no food truck present during Stadium Journey’s visit.   Thirsty Starfire fans can select from a variety of Coca-Cola products. In addition, a selection of beers can also be purchased at the concession stand. Stadium Journey recommends the Starfire IPA from local favorite Amherst Brewing. Fans looking for an alternative adult beverage can purchase a beverage from Suncruiser or a 32-ounce bucket of Tito’s and lemonade.    Atmosphere 3   Bullens Field is different than the other ballparks in the Futures League, in that it is not a former professional park. To make up for its smaller size, the staff have to put on a better show to make up for the inferior facilities. While we’ll leave the ultimate decision about whether they accomplish this goal up to you, there is no doubt that catching a game in Westfield can be a fun time.   There’s definitely a small-town vibe going on here. It starts with the PA announcer, who does his best to add some energy to the proceedings, but is limited by his equipment, as he has only a portable speaker setup behind home plate. Likewise, a basic scoreboard in left field displays a line score and count, but little more. The Starfires mascot, Stanley the Squirrel, walks around the ballpark interacting with fans. There are some games and other distractions going on here between innings, but nothing like you’d see at a bigger ballpark. The team regularly presents theme nights complete with specialty jerseys. Notable sports figures including Jonathan Papelbon and Brian Scalabrine have appeared at Bullens Field in recent seasons.   What the Starfires have going for it is its small-town vibe. The kitschy nature of the promos just seem to work here. The crowd is smaller, and many of them have been coming since day one. Everyone seems to know everyone. It’s got that friendly vibe you don’t often find in the northeast. Even if you’re coming to Bullens Field sporting the colors of the opposition, you’ll find yourself engaged in conversation with your neighbors in no time.   Neighborhood 2   Billy Bullens Field is located in a residential area about two miles away from downtown Westfield, adjacent to Westfield Technical Academy and Allen Park. There is nothing within walking distance from the ballpark to attract visiting fans. The town’s main drags of Main Street and Broad Street contain most of Westfield’s restaurants. There is a Quality Inn and a Hampton Inn out by the Mass Pike.    Springfield is located 20 miles to the east. Some major attractions, including the National Basketball Hall of Fame and MGM Casino, are located there. Boston is located an hour and a half to the east, and Albany is an hour and a half to the west.   Fans 3   Westfield generally lags behind the other teams in the Futures League in terms of attendance, especially since Brockton and Pittsfield are not in the league anymore. The Starfires drew a franchise-record 25,792 fans over the 2025 season, and average of 1,075 per game. Considering that the capacity of Bullens Field is listed as 1,000, Starfire fans are showing up night after night.   What the Starfires may lack in quantity of fans, they make up for in quality. The team has a dedicated fanbase, many of whom have a personal connection with the team, either as host families, season ticket holders, or friends to the players who are local to the area. It makes for a very knowledgeable, vocal and invested crowd.   Access 2   Bullens Field is located in southwest Westfield, a city of almost 41,000 residents in western Massachusetts. Interstate 90, better known as the Massachusetts Turnpike, runs through the northern edge of the city, providing easy access to visiting fans. Fans driving to Bullens Field will drive a few miles from the Mass Pike through downtown Westfield to get to the ballpark.   Bullens Field is located on the campus of Westfield Technical Academy. It is used by both local high schools for baseball and football, as well as serving the Starfires and the local Babe Ruth League. Parking is available in Westfield Tech’s parking lot, which provides an overlook of the ballpark on the first base side.   Fans enter Bullens Field on the third base side. The concession stand and restrooms are located near the entrance. The seating bowl contains plastic bucket seats bolted into the concrete grandstand. There is plenty of room for fans to spread out and move around. Additional seating is located further down the third base line. Nets, fences, dugouts and light poles obstruct views from all seating locations.   There is a scoreboard in left field which can be difficult to see during day games. Lines for concessions or rest rooms are not an issue during typical Starfire games. Interestingly, the grandstand is not aligned properly with the baseball diamond. This is because the field has been moved since the opening of the facility and a backstop added. Additional seating is available along the third base side of the field. Veteran fans will bring their own chairs and sit further down the line beyond the end of the fence.   Return on Investment 4   Tickets to Starfire games are priced at ten dollars for general admission. Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the ballpark. Concessions are reasonably priced, topping out at seven dollars for a bottle of beer and three dollars for a slice of pizza. A night at a Starfires game is a very affordable entertainment option for western Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 2                                                                                                 Billy Bullens displays Westfield’s Babe Ruth baseball success proudly, with several plaques dedicated to successful teams and important persons in the program’s history located throughout the facility.   The Starfires retired Josh Frometa’s number 24 in a pregame ceremony before the final game of the 2025 season. Frometa, a Holyoke native and student at American International College, played for the Starfires for three seasons has his name all over the franchise’s record books, as he is the team’s all-time leader in games played, hits, runs, RBIs, walks, hit by pitches, and total bases. Everyone associated with the team remarks on the legacy Frometa has left in Westfield, both on and off the field. Final Thoughts   Bullens Field is an anomaly in the Futures League, where the rest of the ballparks are former minor league ballparks. Still, this cozy little ballpark in western Massachusetts has become a good fit in this league, which has enjoyed a quick rise to become one of the better summer college circuits in the nation.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Tarleton Baseball Complex 101 S Harbin Dr Stephenville, TX 76401 Tarleton State Texans website Tarleton Baseball Complex website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 1,000 Texans Baseball Stephenville is a community of approximately 20,000 people located in north central Texas. Known affectionately as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Stephenville is home to numerous world-renowned horse trainers and top-level professional rodeo athletes, most notably Ty Murray, the nine-time PRCA world-champion cowboy and co-founder of the Professional Bull Riders Association (PBR).   In addition to professional cowboys, Tarleton State University sponsors many other equine-related team events, as well as hosting 17 NCAA Division I sports. Baseball, one of 7 men’s sports at the school, has officially been played on campus since 1904, when they entered a team in the West Texas College League. The Texans baseball program was disbanded from 1960 through 1988, when the school decided to reinstate the team thanks to generous donors and a desire to move the athletic department forward.   Competing at the Division 2 level until 2019, the Texans won two conference tournaments in 2014 and 2018. Along with the rest of the athletic department, baseball began a transition to Division 1 in 2019, which limited post-season participation for a few years, until full membership was granted in the 2024-25 school year. The baseball team made history in 2024 when it became the first baseball program to win their conference tournament during a reclassification period.   The Texans play their home games at the newly completed Tarleton Baseball Complex. Opened in 2025 in conjunction with the softball stadium, the cantilevered covered aluminum stands seat approximately 1000.   Food & Beverage   2 Concessions here are limited, with only a folding table set up under the stands. Drinks offered are Pepsi products plus Dr Pepper, but note there is no Mountain Dew – Starry is the only citrus-based option. Beer, Gatorade, and bottled water are also available, with alcohol options including popular domestics such as Michelob Ultra, Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Bud Light. White Claw, Twisted Tea, and regional craft favorite Revolver’s Texan Rider, which is branded specifically for Tarleton athletics, are also available.   Food options include hot dogs, Chick-fil-A sandwiches, popcorn, and various candy and snacks, such as candy bars and many flavors of chips. I would suggest a Texan Rider with a Chick-fil-A sandwich, with 1 side packet of honey mustard. If you are more traditional, go for the hot dog, but the Texan Rider is a must.   Atmosphere   3 The game day atmosphere at Tarleton Baseball Complex should be considered above average for a mid-major baseball program. There are a few between-inning games involving selected students, including a Whataburger-sponsored dizzy bat race, where the winner receives a goody bag of Whataburger-branded items and coupons. The announcer is excellent, and there is also organ music and other quality sound effects, such as breaking glass for a foul ball and the Pac-Man theme song for stolen bases.   Tarleton fans are fairly loyal to their athletic teams, with baseball attendance averaging around 500 fans per game each season. While this number is not eye-popping, in the world of mid-major NCAA Division I baseball, there are not many schools who consistently bring in fans beyond what is referred to as the “girlfriend and family” crowd. Saturday crowds are usually the largest during a 3-game series, with Friday night and Sunday afternoon bringing smaller numbers due to out-of-town fans needing to travel.   At the most recent game I attended there were several student groups present. While they may not have been there for the first pitch at noon, by the 2nd and 3rd inning the stands were nearly full of purple clad co-eds cheering for the Texans and ragging on the opponent and umpires, as one would expect at any ballpark.   Check the weather forecast before attending a game here – with much of the college baseball schedule beginning in February and taking place in late winter thru early spring in Texas, weather can be a factor on any given day. The field faces north, which means a cold front will bring chilling winds blowing in from right field, directly into the face of those in the home side stands. Simply know the forecast and be prepared with jackets or more in case a weather change is forecast by mid-game; take it from someone who experienced a third inning “blue norther”, as we refer to them in West Texas. The temperature fell by 20 degrees and wind blew into our faces at about 30 mph for the final few innings of an early season game, so our coats and blankets came in handy as we enjoyed the play on the field, even if home runs to right field became virtually impossible, coming to a screeching halt.   Neighborhood   4 Tarleton is set in the center of Stephenville, which is a small town of approximately 20,000 people. The area around campus is mostly residential, with many restaurants and fast food choices within a few minutes’ drive. Your best options include Hard 8 Bar-B-Q , Grump’s Burgers , Don Nico’s Mexican Food , Newton’s Saddlerack , or  Caam’s Pizza Restaurant . Should you prefer an old school diner experience, Jake and Dorothy’s is a locally owned joint that dates back to 1948, the place where waffle cut fries were invented and chicken fried steak is the calling card. Just carry cash, as they do not accept credit or debit cards.   There are plenty of hotels to choose from in town; some of the more highly rated choices include Hampton Inn and Suites,  La Quinta Inn and Suites , and  Best Western Plus , among others. If you prefer short-term rental options, there are several small houses and cabins available in and around Stephenville. On busy weekends, however, availability can be an issue.   Fans   4 Tarleton fans are usually loud and loyal, and baseball fans are no different, but an early Saturday afternoon start is not ideal for college students. The later in the day a game takes place, the larger and more active the crowd is, especially on days when there are fewer other sporting events taking place on campus.   There is a chance that The Purple Poo  may make an appearance to show support and lead the crowd in a cheer. The Purple Poo is a secret society of students who are charged with keeping the spirit of John Tarleton and Oscar P alive. The “Poo” is the oldest spirit organization in Texas, formed in 1921 when the school was still a junior college. This special group posts signs of support each week on campus and shows up at most events involving Tarleton teams. When they arrive, they lead the crowd in a special cheer for Oscar P and the Texans. Charged to wear disguises in public throughout their entire time on campus, the identity of each member is only revealed at the end of their senior year. At the most recent game I attended there was a fairly large number of students present for an early season non-conference game, with many of them actively interacting with the opposing team and umpires during play. There were also several vehicles parked on top of the parking garage across the street for a unique, free view – the measurable number of fans watching from such a unique vantage point shows that the fans are not only loyal, but knowledgeable as well.   Access   4 Stephenville is approximately three and a half hours north of San Antonio via US 281, or three hours from Austin via Interstate 35. From the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex the school is only a little over an hour’s drive. Once in town, the university is easily accessible and ample parking near the gym is available.   There is no commercial air travel into town and public transportation is rideshare only, which is limited at best. The best option if flying into the region is to fly to DFW, Love Field-Dallas, Austin-Bergstrom, or San Antonio and rent a vehicle to drive.   Parking near the field is free, with ample space available. At the last game I attended, there was also a softball game taking place next door, and there was no issue with finding a parking space.   Return On Investment   5 General admission tickets cost $7 with reserved seats being $10. As a bonus, many early season weekend series include doubleheaders, which double the amount of baseball for the same price. For a Division I baseball program that has consistently been in contention for post-season play, ticket prices here are on the lower end of the price range, and free parking makes Tarleton baseball an even better deal.   The cost of your ticket, added to the relatively low cost of concessions here, creates an experience that is definitely a bargain. There are not many baseball programs that produce higher quality play for this price.      Extras   4 The new parking garage and other buildings being built on campus have created a nice backdrop, and the view from home plate out to straightaway centerfield is one of the more picturesque in Texas. Foul balls here are not supposed to be kept, and the staff highly encourages them to be returned – fans are given gift cards and food coupons when they bring a ball back to the designated location. At the most recent game I attended, fans were able to get Whataburger coupons for returned balls, which theoretically could allow fans to get food for free that is worth more than the amount of money they spent at the ballpark that day. Free parking is not unheard of for smaller Division I (and lower level) baseball programs, but the proximity and convenience of the parking for baseball here deserves special recognition – there are two large parking lots within 100 yards of the stadium which can hold more vehicles than most baseball crowds would require. These parking lots also have at least five entrance and exit points, allowing for smooth traffic flow in the event of an above average-size crowd. The restrooms and ticket offices at Tarleton Baseball Complex are in a new brick building that sits between the baseball and softball fields. The facilities are large, clean, and ADA-compliant, with sidewalks connecting all parking areas to the restrooms and both fields.   Final Thoughts Tarleton Texans baseball, as a fairly new Division I program, is already making a splash, having won its conference tournament in 2024. They consistently play Power 5 schools during midweek games and have plenty of talent on their roster. With a new ballpark and other facilities, this is a great place to watch some quality baseball at a bargain price. In addition, for fans looking to tour multiple ballparks in Texas, Stephenville is not far from many other large colleges and minor/major league stadiums. A day trip into town would also make for a pretty drive and entertaining gameday experience.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Alex Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium 970 Coffeen Street Watertown, New York 13601 Watertown Rapids website Alex Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 3,500 Catch the Wave Baseball in New York’s northern country town of Watertown dates back to the 1940s, when the Class C Watertown Athletics competed in the Border League until 1951. At the time, the baseball field was located in the infield of the horse track that circled the grandstand at Duffy Fairgrounds. Professional baseball returned in 1983 when the Pittsburgh Pirates placed their short-season New York-Penn League affiliate in Watertown, where it remained for six seasons. Future big leaguers like Moisés Alou, Jay Buhner, and Tim Wakefield began their careers here. In 1989, the Cleveland Guardians (then known as the Indians) took over the affiliation, continuing the stream of future MLB talent with players like Sean Casey and Brian Giles. Affiliated baseball left town after the 1998 season, and Watertown went without a team until summer collegiate baseball arrived in 2000. The Watertown Wizards joined the  New York Collegiate Baseball League (NYCBL), later moving to the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League (PGCBL) and re-branding themselves as the Rams; th e Rams then played through 2014 before folding. After a two-year hiatus, summer collegiate baseball returned with the Watertown Rapids, who began play in 2017, continuing the city’s presence in the PGCBL. In 2025 the team returned to the NYCBL, reconnecting with the league where summer baseball in Watertown first found its footing.   Food & Beverage   3 The primary concession stand here is in the walkway under the grandstand, with separate stands for food and alcohol. The menu leans heavily into traditional ballpark fare; hot dogs, burgers, fries, and nachos form the core, with soft pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, and assorted candy also available. Beverages include Pepsi products, various flavors of Gatorade, including Gatorade Water, as well as Celsius energy drinks. The alcohol selection is rather expansive, featuring the champagne of beers, Miller High Life, as well as Miller Lite, Leinenkugel Summer Shandy, Happy Thursday spiked drinks, Happy Dad and Vizzy seltzers, Jack Daniel’s canned cocktails, Simply Spiked Lemonade, and The Beast malt beverage. Wine drinkers can choose from red, white, or rosé, with wine slushes also available. The first base side is a popular stop for kids, with The Boathouse shack selling ice cream novelties along with Rapids souvenirs, next to a neighboring table selling snow cones.   Atmosphere   3 Built in the 1940s, Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium carries all the quirks of a facility designed for multiple uses. The seating layout is a bit quirky, with no curved grandstand wrapping around home plate, but instead just a large, covered section of aluminum benches with backrests behind it. Netting is draped from the roof of the grandstand to the backstop, and two small sections of individual chairback seats offer more comfortable seating, one directly behind the plate and another beside the home dugout on the third base side. The outfield wall is a combination of advertisements and black plywood. On the first base side is a picnic area with patio chairs and picnic tables lined up along a three-foot high drink rail. Small bleacher sections also sit atop each dugout, and the press box is perched behind the third base seating. The overall layout is open and easy to navigate. While the stadium is not directly on the water, Lake Ontario’s influence can still be felt; breezes from the lake can definitely make for cool summer evenings. The game presentation is kept rather straightforward – t here are occasional on-field contests and fan engagement segments, but most breaks between innings are filled with music. Sound effects and audio gimmicks are minimal, allowing the natural rhythm of the game to remain the focus.   Neighborhood   3 Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium is part of the larger 67-acre Duffy Fairgrounds and recreational fields of Watertown. The complex includes a football field, home to the Watertown Red & Black, the longest-running semi-professional football team in the country, as well as Watertown Municipal Arena, where the Watertown Wolves of the Federal Prospects Hockey League play. The fairgrounds are also home to the Jefferson County Fair, the nation’s longest continuously operating county fair. Several of Watertown’s better-known restaurants are located just beyond the fairgrounds; within walking distance are Fairground Inn (Italian), Craft836 Canteen (pub fare), and Coleman’s Corner (Irish-American). A little closer to downtown, The Noshery and Vito’s Gourmet serve up popular sandwiches and quick bites. Route 3 brings visitors to a cluster of hotels and familiar national chain restaurants, making the area convenient for out-of-town fans staying overnight. Nearby Black River Trail offers a scenic riverside path that winds into downtown Watertown. Just southeast of the stadium, Thompson Park is home to the city’s green space, including attractions like Zoo New York, Thompson Park Golf Course, and Honor the Mountain Monument, a tribute to the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division. Based at nearby Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division is the most frequently deployed unit in the Army.   Fans   3 Though modest in size, Rapids crowds typically number between 100 and 200 on weekday nights, with weekend games drawing closer to 300. The fans who do show up bring energy, noisemakers and bells ring out for every run, and a few loyal supporters even arrive with homemade signs for favorite players. While the fan support could be a bit better in  a small city with a population of only about 25,000, the number of fans in the stands only tells part of the story of the support the Rapids receive.   Access   4 Duffy Fairgrounds are located less than a mile from Interstate 81, which runs regionally from the Canadian boarder to Syracuse. The baseball field is centrally located on the property, which has a long parking area that runs behind the stadium, leaving a short walk to the ticket office on the first base side of the stadium. The entry plaza is spacious and provides easy access to both the seating area and concession stands. The walkway that runs directly in front of the grandstand can obstruct the views of those in the first few rows, when other fans are using it. There is ample space for children to run around, however, without disrupting the game experience.   Return on Investment   5 Adult tickets are just $7, with seniors, military members, and students receiving a discounted rate of $5. Children 12 and under get in free, and there’s no charge for parking, making a night at a Watertown Rapids game one of the best values in the region. Concessions are also reasonably priced, helping encourage fans to enjoy food at the ballpark, rather than pricing them out with inflated stadium markups.   Extras   2 Following the game, fans are treated to an on-field interview with the player of the game. It is a nice way to connect players with their fans, while also celebrating their success. Though the stadium has been rebuilt and renovated over the years, the grandstand’s design still reflects an earlier era of ballpark architecture, one that is increasingly rare – t he lack of any sort of curvature to the grandstand, large roof, and supports keeps the historical feel to the stadium. Alex Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium definitely does not come with any present-day amenities, but the reminder of the history that once was part of the prior field is a big plus.   Final Thoughts Alex Duffy Fairgrounds Stadium is a throwback in all the right ways; with its low frills setup and architecture of eras gone by, this ballpark offers a relaxed and affordable evening of summer collegiate baseball.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 Road America N7390 WI-67 Elkhart Lake, WI 53073 IMSA website Road America website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 150,000 The Best Sportscar Racing Has to Offer Road America is often regarded as one of the greatest race tracks in the world, let alone the US. While the track’s annual schedule features IndyCar, Trans Am, and others, IMSA provides a weekend of GT-only sportscar racing. The product on track offers stellar racing over four days. Racing in a beautiful setting that proves to be both fan-friendly and easy to navigate, this summer event is a must-see on the IMSA schedule. Couple that with a revival for IMSA’s fanbase in recent years, and you’ll quickly see why this is such a popular weekend.   Food & Beverage   5 There are a lot of places to eat at Road America, and the ones that exist are an absolute treat for the pallet. Road America is led by The Gearbox, a hillside stand and bar that features some of the best views on the property, as well as the best food around. Being in Wisconsin you can get the best cheese and sausage foods here, as well as a brilliantly tasty breakfast food called eggers ($10). Johnsonville is heavily featured, as it is literally the next town over, and their brats ($9 to $13) are a fan favorite. Sargento cheese curds ($7) are also a popular item, as are the burgers ($9 to $12.50), gearbox melt ($11), and TKA sandwich ($15). Beer is of course plentiful, and a Spotted Cow is a must-have in Wisconsin. You can find tons of other options, including broasted chicken outside Turn 3, tacos at Turn 7, and a tiki bar out at the beach by the kink and carousel corners. Atmosphere   5 The atmosphere around Road America during race weekend is very family-friendly and relaxed. The best in the sport are taking part in some of the most exciting racing around, and despite the tension of the competition, everyone – including the teams and drivers – is in a relaxed and fun-loving mood. There is just something about the beauty of the countryside and the forests around the premises that put everyone in a go-race-and-enjoy-every-minute-of-it state of mind. In addition, the quality of the on-track action here is enough to make any fan excited to see what happens around the next corner. The excitement fills the air every time a car takes to the track, be it for practice, qualifying, or for a race. Road America also features some of the cleanest racetrack bathrooms anywhere. Add to that the incredible track store and the free fan shuttle that can take you around the various viewing areas, and you have a solid basis for calling this one of the best tracks around. In 2025 the track also debuted a new viewing area at the top of the hillside outside Canada Corner called the Road America North Pole, and the old walkover bridge along the front stretch was rebuilt as well – it is now large enough to drive a golf cart over. Additionally, IMSA weekend here now features a fan fest on Thursday night in Elkhart Lake, featuring racecars on display, driver autograph sessions, giveaways, and driver bartending competitions.   Neighborhood   4 The area around Road America is exactly what you would expect to find in rural Wisconsin – rolling hills, farmland, forests, and small towns. The town of Elkhart Lake is quaint and small, but is seething with racing history and lore. Famed racing announcer David Hobbs calls this small town home, and the fans here are all die-hards who watch everything that happens on the track. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Road America, there are a wide variety of small bed-and-breakfasts to pick from in and around Elkhart Lake, as well as some cabins that can make you feel like you’re roughing it…sort of. In addition, the town of Sheboygan is only 20 to 30 minutes away by car, providing fans a chance to stay in a hotel chain of their choice – Holiday Inn, La Quinta, etc. are all located in Sheboygan. If you’re looking for something to eat, Sheboygan has a wide variety of restaurants, from Applebee’s to McDonald’s. But by far the most must-see eatery near Road American is Stop-Inn Tavern at Siebkens Resort in Elkhart Lake, a local bar that all of racing royalty has passed through at some time or another. And, for those looking for something to see and do, Kettle-Moraine State Forest is not far from the track, providing some great hiking options. In addition, the Kohler factory is in nearby Sheboygan, and Road America’s location is just a 30-minute drive from the Great Lakes.   Fans   5 Fans at Road America are much like those in the rest of the Midwest – die-hard and series-knowledgeable. They’re also absurdly kind and sweet, willing to help in any way possible when you need assistance with anything. They also pack the camping areas around the speedway, making for one brilliant fan block party. Additionally, the fan attendance in 2025 was the highest in decades, showcasing IMSA’s increase in attendance across the board at all their tracks. Access   4 Getting to Road America isn’t as difficult as getting to some sports facilities. That said, it is off the beaten path – at least a 10-minute drive from the nearest highway, Road America requires you to drive down some single-lane roads through the hilly countryside. Once you’re at Road America, you may discover there are several other entrances to the track that you didn’t even know about, which can be frustrating if you had to wait in line for hours; check the fan map of the venue before you go to identify these alternate gates and entrances. The biggest plus at Road America is that the main entrance had a complete makeover in 2016, adding more entrance booths for faster processing of fans and campers. Parking is plentiful, and preferred parking is available for $30.   Return on Investment   5 Road America is one of the best tracks at which you can watch a race. The facility is huge, but you are given plenty of options to watch the race from, without having to move from place to place. Watching from the right location can give you up to six corners of the track to see all at once, and you also get access to the grandstands all around the track, as well as access to the paddock, with your admission ticket to most races. Single day tickets for Thursday ($30), Friday ($40), Saturday ($70), and Sunday ($70) are all available, while a full weekend pass ($150) is a steal. Add-ons include golf cart rentals ($445 to $705), go-kart passes ($60 to $250), camping ($80 to $950), and on-track parade laps ($45) are also available. VIP and hospitality ticket options and add-ons range from $225 to $575.   Extras   5 You can take a trip to Elkhart Lake just a few miles away, following the original track layouts through historic markers along the roadside. Before it had its current layout, Road America was once a true street course, running through Elkhart Lake itself and over the hills on the various roadways in the nearby area. Back at the track, where once a zip line ended now stands a high vantage point for fans to watch the action at the track from, inside the final turn. The former zip line landing platform is now a giant viewing zone, and while you may have to climb a lot of stairs to get there, the view is well worth it. Additionally, if you have ever wanted to try your hand at racing, you can sign up for racing school at the track. If you can’t peel your eyes away from your mobile device, you can also engage with the race on social media, and see your photos and tweets on the various big screens around Road America by using specific hashtags and handles on Twitter and Instagram. The tracks also features several selfie stands around the property, for fans to get photos of themselves at various iconic trackside locations. However, if treetop views and social media aren’t your thing, you can also take a wandering hike through the forest on several pathways that meander through the mountains above Kettle Bottoms and Canada Corner – these trails lead from the top of the peak to the bottom of a newly-cleared pathway along the infamous straightaway. Finally, several autograph sessions happen during the weekend in the fan zone, offering fans a chance to see some of their favorite drivers.   Final Thoughts If you want to see racing history and meet modern-day sports stars, take a trip to Road America – you will not be disappointed in what you find. In addition, if you want to go a step above that, go camping on the property during race weekend; the fans are nice, the action is top quality, and the weather is almost always beautiful. It’s hard to find a better place to see racing in North America than Road America, and with the atmosphere during IMSA weekend, it’s hard to pass up this perfect event.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Virginia International Raceway 1245 Pine Tree Rd Alton, VA 24520 SRO Motorsports website Virginia International Raceway website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 10,000 VIR’s Sportscar Celebration The famed Virginia International Raceway has been a favorite visit among sportscar racers for decades, hosting multiple events during the season including IMSA, Trans Am, and GridLife. The winding roads through the hills of rural southern Virginia are challenging for many, while also providing a beautiful, verdant backdrop for some of racing’s best to test each other’s mettle. Visiting the track has become a must-do for some of racing’s biggest fans over the years, and a visit to the facility helps you understand why rather quickly.   Food & Beverage   3 There are several food options in the main paddock area, including the popular Paddock Cafe. This spot nestled next to the track features burgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and more. To make it easier for fans to order, the cafe also has several bundle options that generally run in the $10 range for a main item (burger, chicken, etc.) plus fries and a drink. In addition, the track has snacks, ice cream, and various other items for sale at the main concession stand, and some food trucks pop up during bigger race weekends down in the paddock area as well. Recently, automated tablets have been added here to speed up the ordering process, but lines to pick up orders are no less short. The track also has an on-site restaurant called Oak Tree Tavern & Connie’s Pub, which is a more upscale option than something on the quick service side down by the paddock. The biggest downside at Virginia International Raceway, however, is that there are no other food options around the facility for fans who set up camp in other parts of the venue, or who wish to wander the property to watch the racing action. Thankfully, during SRO weekend the aforementioned food trucks are here to offer alternative food and beverage options for fans.   Atmosphere   4 Virginia International Raceway’s track is big, fast, and beautiful. Most of the track’s viewing areas offer views that extend beyond just one corner and include the complex heading up to and away from where you are set up, something that many other road courses are unable to boast. The fans also tend to come from all around and pack in the viewing mounds and grandstands around the facility, meaning you will be surrounded by your racing friends all weekend. The paint scheme and architecture of the various buildings harkens back to southern plantation-style homes, as well as to the farmhouses and barns that the rural south has become known for. Situated next to a watershed for a river, the surrounding area is also full of beautiful green trees to give Virginia International Raceway that special wooded look. VIR also continues to improve the fan access experience year over year – new tent camping areas were opened a few years ago inside the turn 1 thru 4 area on driver’s left, while the RV camping and fan viewing areas were also extended far down the backstretch. The biggest downside here is the weather in July; it is absolutely scorching hot in Virginia this time of year, and afternoon thunderstorms are almost guaranteed to pop up, blowing in from the Appalachian Mountains in the hot afternoon.   Neighborhood   1 The biggest downside to VIR is its lack of neighbors – while there is peace in the solitude of VIR’s rural setting, there is quite literally nothing around Virginia International Raceway in any direction for at least half an hour. Located just over an hour north of the greater Raleigh-Durham area in North Carolina, and half an hour southeast of South Boston in Virginia, you have to drive a while to find anything as far as hotels or restaurants. A lot of fans and teams stay in Danville, VA to the west, which is where you can find the closest places to eat – here you can find restaurants such as Buffalo Wild Wings and 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company, or lodging options such as Sleep Inn & Suites and Courtyard by Marriott. For something to do while in the area, South Boston Speedway features local short track racing on weekend nights, or down in Durham, NC you can visit Duke Forest for a quiet hike in the suburbs.   Fans   3 The fans at Virginia International Raceway are pretty great as far as sportscar racing fans go. They love anything motorsports, show up en masse for race weekends, and know everything about the sport they love and the drivers who compete in it. You can find everyone from young fans who are just learning about the sport, to diehard loyalists who have been going for a long time. While SRO weekend may not sport the same number of fans as one can see during IMSA  weekends here, the crowd is no less impressive, growing year after year thanks to SRO’s fan outreach. Access   2 To get to Virginia International Raceway you have to drive off the main roads. State Highway 58 is the closest main roadway, connecting Danville to South Boston – there are no other major highways in or around the area, with I-85 almost 30-45 minutes away to the southeast. That said, once you get to the track parking is plentiful on site and is well marked. Fans can also enjoy getting around the facility easily, thanks to the signage pointing them towards the paddock area from the main parking lots in the infield.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets for SRO at VIR are affordable, offering fans the ability to not have to break the bank to get access to exciting racing. Single day tickets for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday are just $30, and a weekend pass is $60. Car corrals are also available for $70 on Saturday or Sunday, and include laps on the track. A 3-day corral pass is $200, while 4-day VIP parking is $70.   Extras   4 Virginia International Raceway’s victory lane is located right in the main paddock, meaning fans can get up close to post-race celebrations. SRO brings in a large platform for the ceremonies, meaning you can see them from the back of the crowd as well as from up front. The venue also erects TV screens at various points around the property for fans to see the action around the track while it is happening, meaning you won’t miss anything regardless of where you decide to watch the race from. Tickets to race weekend also get you into the paddock area for free, something other tracks and races require an additional ticket for. In addition, races at Virginia International Raceway also generally include driver meet and greets and autograph sessions for fans to see the stars up close. In addition, SRO itself hosts various autograph sessions during the race weekend, allowing fans the ability to meet their favorite drivers. Final Thoughts Taking a trip to Virginia International Raceway is a must-do for any race fan who wants to see some quality sportscar racing; the track is big, technical, and exciting. Fans from all around flock to the speedway for a day at the races, and it’s easy to see why. While driving to the track and finding a place to stay nearby may be a challenge, Virginia International Raceway offers plenty for both casual and diehard sports fans to make their visit worth the trek.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Portland International Raceway 1940 N Victory Blvd Portland, OR 97217 Portland International Raceway website SpeedTour website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 86,000 Vintage Oregon Racing Take premier sportscar racing and put it on a historic track in the Pacific Northwest, and you have yourself a race weekend at Portland International Raceway. The track hosts rounds for the likes of Trans-Am, NASCAR, and IndyCar, as well as various SCCA and club racing events. However, the average fan who may remember those halcyon days of Champ Car past will be disappointed to see that very little has changed in the last 20-plus years. That said, several improvements were made two years ago, including newly paved roads and the expansion of food offerings throughout the facility. Unfortunately, a downturn in the fields for SVRA means less racing on vintage weekend at the facility. Food & Beverage    2 At the sole concessions stand, fans can find a small variety of food options – your main stop should be Fast Track Grill in the outer paddock, where you can find items like burgers, BBQ sandwiches, nachos, and much more. Sodas and other drinks are also available at a cocktail food truck next to the main food area, though the hours for the main concession stand are seemingly random throughout the day. The inner paddock has no concessions beyond a few random soda vending machines, but there are several food trucks and food stands set up in the fan zone just on the outside of the track, near the crossover bridge. In addition, every year strawberry shortcake is made for all fans and crew in attendance on Saturday of the event by one of the teams, something of a tradition at the track. Atmosphere   3 The track is located in a beautiful part of America – the Pacific Northwest is known for being green and lush and having great weather. However, recent years have brought economic strife, including a dramatic surge in the homeless population around the facility; nearly every road in and out of the track is lined with tent cities. Something this track has, however, that no others on the sportscar schedule have are volcanoes in the background; a quick look to the east from any point on the track will reveal the towering peak of Mount Hood, and to the north, Mount St. Helens rises above the landscape. The track offers various vantage points for fans all around the track in the form of grandstands or viewing mounds. The grandstands are primarily wooden bleachers on the outside of the front straight, however, making for a less than comfortable sitting situation. Furthermore, the inner grandstands at Turns 1 and 2, now named the Shelton Chicane, are metal, which means they are scorching hot under the summer sky; these stands also have no seatbacks either. Restrooms are not plentiful, and while portable restrooms are located throughout the property, the comfort of more permanent restrooms would be welcome. Neighborhood   4 Portland International Raceway is located in a city park at the extreme northern reach of Portland, just across the Columbia River from Vancouver, WA. Vancouver has plenty to see and do, including the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, or for nature lovers, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood are each an hour from the track, offering great nature trails and mountain scenery, as do the various waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge. A few minutes to the south of the track is the city of Portland, where you can find everything you want and need, from shopping and dining to sports and recreation. The International Rose Test Garden and Pittock Mansion are popular stops, while Salt and Straw and Voodoo Donuts are both must-visits when it comes to food in the city. For somewhere to stay, Portlander Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Portland North are both across the street from Portland International Raceway itself. Fans   2 The fans have been going to PIR for decades. The track is set up to offer great viewing areas for fans all around the circuit, and campers and pop-ups can be seen all down the backstretch. However, while the fans may spread out, the grandstands themselves never fill up fully, which can make for a rather empty-seeming track at times. This is especially distressing as part of the allure of motorsports is the fans packing the grandstands, and thus making it feel like a rocking place. Additionally, this weekend features Trans Am West instead of the national series where more popular drivers compete, and the dwindling numbers of SVRA’s grids means there are less cars to see on track than in the past, and therefore less reason for fans to come to this event. Access   5 Portland International Raceway is so easy to get to that you can literally throw a stone over the I-5 wall and have it land in the track’s parking lot. Located off exit 306/307 on I-5, the parking lot offers plenty of parking, both at the main entrance area of the track and inside the main gate past the outer paddock. Signs are also plentiful in the area to help you get to the track when you are looking for the circuit. Return on Investment   5 Tickets for Portland SpeedTour start at $20 to $25 for Friday and $30 to $35 for Saturday or Sunday single day tickets; weekend passes ($60 to $70) are also available. Family 2-Packs ($125) and 4-Packs ($175) are available online only. Single day VIP parking is $10, while a weekend VIP parking pass is $25. Motorhome parking is $110. Extras   3 Race weekends here feature plenty of access to the paddock areas on both sides of the track for all the sportscar series. In addition, several vendors also set up their shops, as well as sponsor displays, along the front stretch grandstand area. Finally, a car show is also a frequent sight on race weekends to help draw in the Portland car culture, offering special parking for participants, and even on-track paced laps in your own vehicle. Final Thoughts Taking in a race at Portland International Raceway is one that can really be affordable. However, the track still lacks several amenities that could make this facility truly one of the best on the schedule for fans. That said, the venue remains one that is unique in sportscar racing due to its location in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Tremendous potential exists here, and with great weather and great racing on site, it is easy to see why fans have been flocking to this track for nearly 60 years.

Photos Courtesy of Marc Viquez Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 CPKC Stadium 1460 East Front Street Kansas City MO 64120 KC Current website CPKC Stadium website Year Opened: 2024 Capacity: 11,500 Kansas City’s One-of-a-Kind Soccer Stadium CPKC Stadium stands proudly at the Berkley Riverfront in Kansas City. It is part of the transformation of the city’s landscape in its early stages of development. The $117 million privately funded soccer-specific venue is the first of its kind built for women’s soccer, and it held its opening match on March 16, 2024, with a 5-4 victory over Portland in front of a sell-out crowd. There is not a bad seat in the house with the highest rows of seats no more than 100 feet from the field of play. Also, premium suites are purposely positioned low to the pitch, and seating in many of the club-level sections is comprised of breathable mesh material. There are also offerings from local Kansas City restaurants in all four corners of the stadium, offering local flavors, inspired new twists, and vegan options. The area is quickly changing and will offer 5 million square feet of mixed-used space that will include a 5-story boutique hotel, a 7-story apartment complex, a streetcar extension, and various restaurants and retail outlets. Currently, the CORE apartment complex is 75% completed and includes Bar K and the Union Berkley Riverfront apartments. The goal is to house 10,000 people and attract visitors from Kansas, Missouri, and all over the country. The stadium has also hosted the 2024 and 2025 Big 12 Conference women’s soccer tournament and the 2025 NCAA Women’s College Cup. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Food & Beverage 4 The stadium features local favorites, offering BBQ, poke bowls, Mexican dishes, farm-to-fresh plates, pizza, sandwiches, and vegan and vegetarian options. The local restaurants include Joe’s KC BBQ, Lulu Thai Noodle Shop, Yoli Tortilleria, Billie’s Grocery, Room 39, Ruby Jeans, and Baba’s Pantry. All locations aim to provide a unique culinary experience for each guest. The Z-Man is a pulled brisket sandwich with onion rings, melted provolone, and barbecue sauce. Yoli’s offers barbacoa, vegan mushroom tinga tacos, along with chicken tinga burritos and quesadillas. Room 39 sells Monte Crisco sandwiches, and Ruby Jeans sells brussels sprout nachos. Billie’s Grocery features a spicy tuna poke bowl. Martin City Brewing Company features a selection of draughts and slices of pizza. J. Rieger & Company is an institution in Kansas City that offers craft cocktails: Heartland Highball, signature Horsefeather, and Seasonal G&T cocktails. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere is electric throughout the game. Fans dress in teal and red colors, and the focus is on the game from the moment of kickoff until play stops at the half. There are three supporter groups: KC Blue Crew, KC Undertow, and Surface Tension Drumming Club, which are visible with their drums, banners, and flags. They provide an incredible backdrop to the sights and sounds of the contest. The stadium has three sides of teal seating with a canopy covering a majority of the seating bowl. One end is open to the river and houses the stadium’s video board and outdoor bar/social meeting spot. The main Concourse wraps around the entire venue and offers a wealth of concessions and areas to watch the game from numerous vantage points.  Fireworks light the sky after every goal, including three scored by Kansas City in the first half during our visit. The concourse is brimming with revelry throughout the match. Many fans mingle with one another, and others enjoy the night's festivities. The soccer matches are much more than rooting for the hometown Current but a vehicle for many to be out in the community and bonding with one another. Neighborhood 3 CPKC Stadium sits along the Missouri River and will be part of a mixed-used district that is under development. However, it is close enough to many downtown neighborhoods that are accessible by walking a short distance to the free streetcar and by car. If attending a Saturday evening match, the Historic River Market is a few blocks away. The market has been in operation since 1857 and houses multiple restaurants, specialty groceries, attractions, and a Saturday farmers market. Recommendations include Ting’s Filipino Bistro, Carollo’s Deli, Chicken Please, and Taste of Brazil. The market is accessible by the streetcar that takes visitors on a 15-minute one-way ride to the Power & Light District, where restaurants and bars are abundant, and Union Station, which houses an active train terminal and a planetarium, Science City, and a 5-story movie theater. A few blocks away from Union Station are the Hallmark Visitors Center and the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The Sprint Center is in the Power & Light District. The multi-purpose sports venue is home to concerts, comedy shows, and WWE events. J. Rieger & Co. is a distillery 2 miles away in the Electric Park District. The historic building dates back to 1887 and houses exhibits, samplings, mixed cocktails, and a slide that takes visitors down one story. Fans 4 The fan support has been impressive the past two seasons and sellouts are the norm. Two supporter clubs cheer for 90-plus minutes while the rest of the stadium cheers loudly after each goal, and fireworks are shot into the midnight sky. It's hard not to be impressed with the level of excitement that is generated at a Current match.  Photo Courtesy of Chris Mullins Access 2 It might be the one drawback to attending a game so far. The area around the stadium is a construction zone, and traffic becomes dense before kickoff. However, the club has made a great effort to provide shuttle services to and from multiple parking lots several blocks away from the stadium to ease the congestion. Still, multiple construction zone fences are the norm at this time of writing. It is recommended to park at the 7th and Main Street lot for $20 and take the free streetcar or shuttle service to the game.  Return on Investment 3 The city loves its brand-new franchise, and tickets can be purchased for $45 on resale markets and get higher closer to match day. It's recommended to purchase tickets online before arriving at the stadium.  The parking lots are probably the most expensive part of attending a game. The green and teal lots are $54, and the red lots will cost $75. I said earlier that the best option is to take the streetcar from 7th and Main Street parking lot, exit at the Rivermarket stop, and walk the Riverfront Heritage Trail to the game. The club also has a free Match Day shuttle from the same parking lot.  Extras 4 CPKC Stadium is the first of its kind for a women’s professional soccer team and will be the model for future structures that hope to be built in Denver, Cleveland, and many other cities. Plus, having a fanbase that dons the teal and red colors of the club throughout the day is also remarkable.  The eye-popping color combination stands out in places like the nearby City Market and makes people notice it. The team offers various forms of shuttle services to bring fans in from other parts of the city and to lessen traffic congestion in the heavily construction zone near the stadium.  The stadium is committed to sustainability, including no sales of plastic bottles or cups at matches, including water offered in aluminum cans. Fountain drinks come in reusable cups that are asked to be returned by fans, currency at an 86% rate. It also houses solar panels that produces 100,000 kilowatts of energy annually. Final Thoughts CPKC Stadium might be the template for women’s soccer stadiums in the United States. The design, culinary features, location, and environmental thinking will make others notice when it comes to constructing stadiums of their own in other cities. The fanbase has embraced the club and has made attending a home match the place to be on a Saturday night.  ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   E mail at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Kauffman Stadium 1 Royals Way Kansas City, MO 64129 Kansas City Royals website Kauffman Stadium website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 37,903 Fountains, Views, and Brews at "The K" Kauffman Stadium was built in 1973 when most facilities of the era housed both football and baseball. These multi-purpose doughnut-shaped stadiums lacked aesthetics, were devoid of character, and were fabulously vapid. The home of the Kansas City Royals is a ballpark- and ballpark only- if its NFL counterpart, the Kansas City Chiefs, wanted to play, it did so across the parking lot in its facility, Arrowhead Stadium. Thank goodness for the forward thinkers of architect Charles Deaton and Chiefs general manager; it would be almost two decades later until another one of its kind was built from scratch when Camden Yards opened in 1992. If Kauffman and Arrowhead were constructed as one multi-purpose stadium, like Three Rivers in Pittsburgh, The Vet in Philadelphia, or Shea Stadium in Queens, they would not exist today. The dominant features of the ballpark include a 322-foot wide water spectacular beyond the outfield walls and a massive chevron-shaped scoreboard in center field. Until 2009, there was no access beyond this part of the ballpark. A total of $250 million in renovations turned the facility into a wraparound concourse to include an impressive children’s play area, a team hall of fame and museum, a social gathering spot behind the fountains, and a few more eateries to enjoy some of that Kansas City-style barbecue. The K is 50-plus years old and regarded as one of the finest examples of a modern baseball stadium; that tradition continues with the 37,903-seat facility offering beautiful views of the outfield, plenty of areas to socialize, and high-quality food that today's customers expect when they purchase a ticket.  Food & Beverage 4 Kaufman Stadium offers a wide variety of food, from the basic standards to local favorites such as barbecue. There is also a value menu that includes items priced at $5 or less, restaurants, and social spaces with beautiful views of the field and outfield fountains. The new items this year include Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que in right field near the outfield experience. The feature item is the Z-Man sandwich, which is a beef brisket sandwich with smoked provolone and crispy onion rings on a toasted roll. There is also a Chicken Z-Man sandwich with smoked mayonnaise. The barbecue favorites include SMOAK Craft BBQ, which offers chopped brisket or pulled pork plates and sandwiches and a selection of slides. A few more local favorites are Pasquantinos in section 208. The Vinnie Beef Paswhich is their take on Italian Beef that includes provolone, bacon, hash browns, and Giardiniera. Buffalo State Pizza in sections 234 and 252 and the Italian Sausage Company in Section 224 provide locally sourced ingredients. The Grinder’s stand in the outfield area offers cheesesteaks in front of your eyes. A few more interesting spots are the Chickie & Pete’s stand offering crab fries and boneless wings, Polcana serving deep-fried Oreos and churros, Andy’s Frozen Custard with a variety of flavors, and Tender Love & Chicken (three locations) for fried chicken tenders and more.  If you are looking for something to drink, the stadium features a beer garden with six varieties of Boulevard beer (Space Camper IPA, Boulevard Light, Easy Orange, and the original Pale Ale) and hard seltzer lines of Quirk (blueberry slam and lemonade tea). Fans can also enjoy Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Blue Moon at the beer garden and pub. There is also a Quirk and Boulevard-dedicated stand in the outfield behind the fountains. Atmosphere 4 Hours before the first pitch, the massive parking lot is brimming with people tailgating, a scene that occurs at a few baseball stadiums across the country. Once inside, the majority of the seating offers majestic views of the diamond, and the massive 12-story chevron-shaped scoreboard is large and bright enough to provide stats, playback, and player profiles for all to notice from their seats. The main attraction of the stadium is the 322-foot water spectacular, a series of 10-foot high waterfalls that extend from the left to right field of the outfield wall. The waterfalls are the largest privately funded fountains in the world and rise after a Royals home run or in between innings. They also change colors at certain times during the game or when games move into the nighttime. The Outfield Experience is a perfect place for children and opens 90 minutes before the game.  Kids can test their pitching arm on the basepaths, play on a mini-baseball diamond, play mini-golf, and run on the basepaths. There is also a carousel and playground slides to keep the kids entertained for long periods. On Wednesday nights, the area offers concerts before the game. There are six social spaces at the game, including spectacular views of the game from different vantage points of the stadium. The Brew and View is atop the 401 and 402 section on the third base side and includes a $20 voucher for a 24-ounce domestic can of bottled water. Craft & Draft is located at the end of the 301 and 302 sections and includes an in-house menu of smoked chicken wings, quick-fire pizza, and barbecue poutine. Each ticket comes with $20 of loaded value for food and drink. One of the social areas that were open to the public during our visit is the Rival Sports Bar which is behind the left field wall behind the visitor's bullpen. It is a great place to hang out for food and drinks with friends and family near the fountains. A separate menu includes garlic street fries, a Reuben sandwich, and $20 of loaded value with each ticket. The outfield also houses the Royals Hall of Fame, which is open to the fans for free during the game. The impressive museum features a wonderful collection of paraphernalia, accolades, and many memories of the franchise dating back to its first season in 1969. If you want more history, bronze statues of George Brett, Frank White, and Dick Howser resided in the right field area of the ballpark. Neighborhood 3 The stadium was built in a sports complex outside of downtown just off I-70, but that was the popular choice in the early 1970s.  Downtown Kansas City has changed dramatically since then; however, you are never too far by car to take in some great places to eat and visit in town. The city is famous for its barbecue scene, with standout spots like Gates, Arthur Bryant’s, Joe’s Kansas City, Q39, Char Bar, and LQ's. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for some seriously good barbecue. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que has various locations, but its original spot in a gas station just across the border in Kansas City, Kansas, is quite the experience. Q39 is located downtown and has quite a reputation among the people in KC. The burnt-end burger, pork belly, and sausage corn dog are highlights. Slap’s BBQ sells barbecue until it is out. The burnt ends are tender, the ribs fall off the bone, and cheesy corn is a nice alternative to mac and cheese. Two places to enjoy a beverage after the game include beer from the Boulevard Beer Hall, a two-story building featuring 30 beers on tap, outside patio seating, and couches for a great place to relax. The other place is J. Rieger & Co., a distillery located in a historic building in the Electric Park district. Visitors can enjoy a mixed cocktail, take a self-guided tour of exhibits, and exit the second floor via an indoor slide. The World War 1 Museum and Memorial is a comprehensive collection of material from the First World War that is informative and detailed to a somewhat forgotten part of history. Just down the hill is Union Station, which features exhibits, a planetarium, and the Science Center in the historic train Center. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a comprehensive look at the men and women who shaped baseball, featuring stories about all-time greats, uniforms, and a timeline of the various Negro Leagues. Fans 3 The Royals boast a passionate fanbase that continues to support the team through every season. In 2024, fans were rewarded with an exciting playoff appearance, fueled by the dynamic play of one of the league's top stars, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. Die-hard supporters filled the stands with energy, while many others enjoyed the stadium's ambiance.  Access 4 Kauffman Stadium is off I-70 in the Truman Sports Complex, eight miles east of downtown Kansas City. There are six different entrances directing motorists to the parking lots, and it is advised to get there earlier for weekend games and promotional events. Once inside the stadium, the wraparound concourse takes fans to all parts of the facility. An older method of exiting fans from the stadium, but effective. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices can start at $5 for standing-room-only seating and increase based on seating and game day. On average, they’re among the most affordable in Major League Baseball, with slightly higher prices on weekends. Concession costs are moderate and comparable to other MLB stadiums. It’s best to buy tickets in advance through the MLB mobile app, where general parking is $21 and reserved parking is $31—both offering a $10 discount compared to gate prices. Fans can find ballpark favorites for $5 or less, including beer, soda, hot dogs, pretzels, and popcorn. They are available in sections 120, 135, 201, 213, 242, 405, 417, and 422. Fans with SRO tickets can enjoy the game from behind the waterfalls or in the outfield ball and lounge areas. Extras 4 Kauffman Stadium receives its first point for the beautiful waterfall display in the Outfield. When you think of the home of the Kansas City Royals, you think of those beautiful waterfalls, and it makes perfect sense to play in the City of Fountains. Kauffman Stadium gets a second point for the children's area in the Outfield Experience section. The impressive playground area is more than enough to entertain kids and keep them busy well into extra innings. Kauffman Stadium receives a third point for being an outlier when baseball stadiums were quite vapid and dual-purpose. It allowed easy modification when renovations took place years later, turning one of the true ballparks into something for fans to enjoy. Kauffman receives a final point for the 12-story scoreboard shaped like the Royals logo. The chevron-shaped scoreboard has been a staple at the stadium since its opening in 1973 and is probably the second most dominant feature. Final Thoughts There's a reason Kauffman Stadium is regarded as one of the class jewels of Major League Baseball for well over 45 years. It is a baseball facility that offers tantalizing views of waterfalls and great menu items for everyone who visits. It continues to reinvent itself making it a nice place for a stadium journey during the baseball season.  ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Soldier Field 1410 Museum Campus Dr. Chicago, IL 60605 Chicago Fire website Soldier Field website Year Opened: 1924 Capacity: 61,500 Soldier Field is on Fire Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer has called Soldier Field home since 2020. The team had previously played here from 1998-2005 before relocating to the soccer-specific stadium in the suburb of Bridgeview, 12 miles southwest of Chicago.  The move back to Chicago was a surprise at first, but being 1.5 miles from downtown, accessible to superior mass transit, and close to a fan base that has embraced the game has made it a logical choice for the Fire. Soldier Field is the long-time home of the Chicago Bears of the National Football League and opened on October 9, 1924, as Grant Park Stadium. It was renamed the following year to honor the US soldiers who died in combat during World War I. The stadium features a Neoclassical style with Doric columns rising above the east and west entrances. The stadium went through $632 million renovations between 2002 and 2003 that reduced capacity and modernized the stadium. The exterior would be retained, but the interior would be significantly altered, providing a venue with a unique design. The move would be fruitful as average attendance has risen from 15,848 in 2022 to 24,474 in four seasons. The club's time at Soldier Field will come to an end soon, as they announced in 2025 that they plan on privately financing a soccer-specific stadium in “The 78” neighborhood in the South Loop along the Chicago River. It will seat 22,000 and anchor a mixed-use development including residential buildings, restaurants, retail, and green space. Food & Beverage 4 Soldier Field offers a bit of food variety from stadium favorites to creative styles designed for fans at the game. There are multiple stands and kiosks, and many grab-and-go stations that make it easy to get something to eat and return to your seat. It is a cashless venue. Fans can enjoy hot dogs, pretzels, brats, Polish sausage, veggie dogs, walking tacos, nachos, and pizza slices. The signature items include nachos and street tacos with in-house smoked brisket, street corn, and a jalapeno cheddar sausage with charred tomato pepper relish and hot tortilla strips called a “Fire Dog”.  There are also rib sandwiches and ice cream nachos. The alcoholic choices include domestic and premium brands from Miller/Coors, Vizzy, Leigenkugel, and Cruz Blanca. You will not find Coke or Pepsi products, but ones from RC Cola, Dr Pepper, and 7Up. Atmosphere 4 The stadium's size did not deter the crowd. The lower bowl was packed with fans, providing enough noise that would make one forget they were at a 61,500-seat venue. However, it is the design of the stadium that makes attending a game a little different from the modern soccer-specific venues of the league. Fans enter through the east entrance into an area dubbed “The Patio” that features the impressive Doric columns. There are multiple tents from local businesses offering prizes for free products, a Kid’s Zone that tests soccer skills, inflatable rides, and a bar area with beer and cocktails. The Fire’s official team store is located in an area that offers a selection of items. If arriving early to the match, this is a fun area to soak up some pre-game festivities that also includes a DJ playing Chicago-house music. Once inside the main concourse of the stadium, fans will have easy access to their seating and the multiple concession areas. Look for the Fire supporter club that makes its way through the west side of the stadium, chanting, waving flags, and beating their drums. One in their seat, the beat goes on for the full 90 minutes of play. The pre-game festivities on the pitch feature pyrotechnic special effects of fire spewing up into the area in the middle of the field and from behind the goal. A group of fans hold up flags and banners on the field to hype up the crowd from their seats. Public address announcements are done in both English and Spanish. Neighborhood 4 Soldier Field sits just south of downtown Chicago, nestled along Lake Michigan in the city’s scenic Museum Campus. Surrounded by sprawling green space and iconic cultural landmarks, the area offers plenty for visitors to enjoy before or after a game. Just steps from the stadium are world-class attractions that include the Field Museum, home to the famous T. rex “Sue,” the Shedd Aquarium with its diverse marine life, and the Adler Planetarium, offering hands-on exhibits and sweeping views of the Chicago skyline. Fans looking for a bite to eat will find plenty of options nearby, from the upscale Chicago Firehouse Restaurant to laid-back favorites like Reggie’s Rock Club, Kroll’s South Loop, and the legendary Harold’s Chicken Shack. The area also features local breweries: Vice District Brewing and Motor Row Brewing, perfect for a pre-game drink. For those wanting to take in the lakefront, the nearby Lakefront Trail provides a picturesque spot to walk along the shoreline. Lake Michigan offers much cooler temperatures during hot summer days, or somewhat reverse during the colder months. Arrive early to the game, you'll be glad you did. Fans 4 The Fire have seen increased attendance in the past four seasons since relocating back to town. Attendance peaked at over 21,000 during the 2024 season. They have several supporter clubs that march to the match and make quite the entrance with flags, banners, and musical instruments. Access 3 Soldier Field is set up well for Fire matches with the entire lower bowl concourse wrapping around the seating bowl for easy access to concessions, bathrooms, exits, and other areas of the venue. Field-level seats behind the goalkeeper require a special entrance to the field from Gate 10, and "The Patio" area is massive and worth checking out before the match or during half-time. It is recommended to use public transportation to and from the stadium to avoid high parking fees and congestion after the game. The SouthShore Line and Metra stop at the 18th Street Station for Soldier Field. It is less than a 10-minute walk from the platform. The 18th Street Station is also accessible from the CTA Red/Orange/Green Lines . Return on Investment 4 The average price for a ticket to a game can be as low as $18 to as high as $40, depending on the opponent and how far in advance you make the purchase. Parking at the stadium will cost close to $40, and it is advisable to take the Metra to the Soldier Field station; an all-day pass costs $7 and is worth the headache of sitting in traffic after the match. Concession prices are what you find nowadays at major sporting events. There are no value items, and beer will cost between $12 $14. Team merchandise is also on par with other MLS clubs, with caps and t-shirts selling around the $30 mark. Depending on your standards, attending a Fire match is a good return on investment. Extras 4 Attending a Fire game has several extra incentives that include fantastic pre-game activities in The Patio, which include games, music, and merchandise sales. The grab-and-go lines are long and quickly move fans throughout the game. There are several lodge areas that fans have access to in order to cool off during hot summer nights. Final Thoughts The Chicago Fire have a bright future ahead of them with the announcement of a soccer-specific venue set to open for the 2028 MLS season. The team has seen increased attendance with its move back to Chicago, and it will cement itself as one of the city’s major brands for the foreseeable future. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

The Frederick Keys are set to rejoin Minor League Baseball in 2026, becoming the Baltimore Orioles' High-A affiliate in the South Atlantic League. This move signifies a re-establishment of a long-standing partnership between Frederick and the Orioles, which previously lasted over 30 years until 2020. The return also entails significant renovations to Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium, a collaborative effort between the city of Frederick and the Maryland Stadium Authority, aimed at meeting MLB's Professional Development League standards and improving the overall fan and player experience. This shift directly impacts the Aberdeen IronBirds, who currently serve as the Orioles' High-A team. With the Keys' return to affiliated baseball, the IronBirds will transition to the six-team MLB Draft League. Despite this change in league affiliation, the IronBirds will maintain their existing city and identity, continuing to play under their current name. Greg Baroni, CEO of Attain Sports, which owns both the Keys and IronBirds, expressed his commitment to supporting Frederick's initiative to bring an Orioles Minor League affiliate back to the city. This strategic realignment aims to enhance the baseball landscape for both communities, solidifying their respective roles within the broader baseball ecosystem in Maryland.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 4 Pines Park Pittwater Rd Brookvale NSW 2100 Australia Manly Warringah Sea Eagles website 4 PInes Park website Year Opened: 1947 Capacity: 23,000 Eagle Rock at the Fortress Lottoland, formerly, Brookvale Oval, is located on the world-famous Northern Beaches of Sydney, and has served as the home of the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles NRL club since they were formed in 1947 – although the area land was designated Brookvale Park as early as 1911. Brookvale Oval has a capacity 23,000 and is managed by the local council – meaning it’s supposedly a public recreation space. The Sea Eagles have fought running battles against the council, as well as at other levels of government, to try and improve the maintenance standard of the current facility and to secure a commitment for a substantial upgrade. A junior league was first formed on the peninsula in 1932, a traditional rugby union stronghold. As such, the league was forced north from Manly itself to the nearby suburb of Brookvale. Having first requested to join the NSWRL as early as 1937, the Sea Eagles were eventually admitted to the 1947 competition along with Parramatta . They’ve since become one of the strongest and most consistent clubs in the NRL, with the distinction of never having ever finished last at the conclusion of a season. Manly are traditionally very strong at their home ground, which is often described as “The Fortress” or colloquially as “Brookie.” Note: Stadium name is now 4 Pines Park. Food & Beverage 3 The haphazard design of the stadium has resulted in a mismatch of concession stands placed around the ground, rather than permanent outlets. Given this is the case, the outlets are often placed where they can be fitted in rather than strategically incorporated into the general flow of the stadium. The food itself is of comparable quality to that of similar stadiums around Sydney and Australia, which of course means mass produced and therefore fairly average in taste yet quite expensive. A standard meal deal (main hot item plus chips and a drink) is costed at $15.50. The individual main items (pie/sausage roll / hot dog / nuggets / hot chips) at $5.50 have no price variation whatsoever, unusually so. There are several additional stands around the ground offering gourmet hot dogs ($7), pulled pork bun ($12) and donuts ($2). Several different beers are available at the bar for between $6 for a Hahn Premium Light and $8.10 for a James Squire 150 Lashes. Pre mixed spirits cost $10, cider is $7.80 and house wine $6.90. As always, if you need a carry tray you will need to fork out an additional $1. Atmosphere 3 Brookvale Oval offers a mix of seating options. The largest of the three grandstands runs the length of the western side of the playing field and is known as the Jane Try Stand in recognition of a land donation in the early 20th century. The stand offers one level of elevated seating and as it faces the east, is shaded. There’s also seating at ground level in front of the concourse. The player’s race runs through this concourse and on to the playing surface. In the south western corner lies the Ken Arthurson Stand, named after the long-time Manly Sea Eagles administrator. The Fulton-Menzies Stand sits at the southern end of the ground, and honours the Fulton family (former player and later coach Bob, and two of his sons who also played for Manly) and Steve Menzies, the highest try scorer in Sea Eagles history. The northern end and eastern side are dominated by several rows of bleacher style seating and a grass hill. Plenty of spectators take the opportunity to enjoy the sun and soak up the atmosphere in this area. There is a scoreboard that displays text only at the back of the northern hill. Neighbourhood 4 Brookvale is located towards the southern end of the northern beaches. The suburb has a large industrial presence but also boasts the largest shopping centre on the peninsula, Warringah Mall. The mall offers plenty in the way of retail as well as a large food court and several café / restaurants. Manly Leagues Club (563 Pittwater Rd) is just down the road from the stadium, providing standard bistro food and several bars. The other option close by is the Brookvale Hotel (511 Pittwater Rd). However, to get the most out of your visit to the area, you really need to travel away from Brookvale. The beaches themselves in this part of Sydney are amongst the very best Australia has to offer. The closest beach is North Curl Curl, but take your pick of any of the 21 patrolled beaches along this stretch of coastline. A few highlights to consider include Avalon (where an episode of the TV show Baywatch was filmed) and Palm Beach (where the Australian soap opera Home and Away is filmed) to the north; and Freshwater (look for the statue of Duke Kahanamoku who is said to have introduced surfing to Australia on the headland) and the world-famous Manly Beach to the south. Freshwater also offers the Harbord Diggers licensed club (80 Evans St) and Harbord Beach Hotel (29 Moore Rd). If you’re looking for an extended night out, head down to Manly. Here you will find an abundance of pubs, cafes, restaurants and hotels spread along The Corso and North Steyne. Some of the more popular pubs include The Steyne (75 The Corso), nicknamed “The Drain” amongst locals, the Ivanhoe (27 The Corso) and Manly Wharf Bar (21 East Esplanade). I’d also recommend the Manly Skiff Club (Stuart St) as a great place to enjoy a cold beer with a sensational view overlooking Manly Cove. A little closer to Brookvale lies Dee Why where numerous cafes and restaurants line the beachfront, including my personal favourite, Sandbar (25 The Strand). In short, you’re in one of the best areas of Sydney but you will need transport to make the most of it. Fans 4 Manly fans are infamous for their reluctance to travel to away games, but their passion at Brookvale cannot be questioned. The Sea Eagles army show up in good numbers, mostly in Manly’s maroon colours. An average crowd is between 13,000 and 15,000 which will mean a fairly full and therefore loud stadium. Access 2 The northern beaches suffer from poor public transport, traffic and a lack of parking. The only public transport offering a direct service to Brookvale Oval is bus. If you are making a day of it and come via the city then the ferry is certainly a good option, providing great views of the harbour and showcasing Sydney as a whole. However, you will then need to get the bus up to Brookvale. Car parking in the surrounding streets is free however you’ll definitely need to be prepared for a walk – and keep in mind how steep Beacon Hill Rd is to the northwest if you park in that direction. Otherwise, $10 parking can be found in nearby Brookvale Public School. In terms of the facilities once inside, they are showing their age and the bathrooms appear not to be well cleaned with cobwebs abound. Return on Investment 2 General admission starts at around $29 for unreserved areas and up to $66 for reserved undercover grandstand seating. If the weather is nice then take your chance on the hill (although you’ll be looking into the sun for afternoon games) but be aware the entire stadium offers little in the way of covered areas. It is priced similar to other NRL venues, but to be fair the majority of them offer a more comfortable and modern fan experience. Extras 2 Additional points awarded in recognition of mascots (Egor and Ellie), cheerleaders and team store. Final Thoughts It appears as though plans are finally afoot to redevelop Brookvale, which will be a welcome relief. In the meantime, you’ll be treated to a traditionally strong team with plenty of fan support for the home team.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Kentucky Proud Park 510 Wildcat Court Lexington, KY 40506 Kentucky Wildcats website Kentucky Proud Park website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 5,000 The Pride and Joy of Kentucky Baseball When the Kentucky Wildcats baseball team took the field on February 26, 2019, they did it at Kentucky Proud Park. The program’s $49 million state-of-the-art ballpark replaced the venerable Cliff Hagan Stadium that was the team’s home for 50 years and ushered in a new area of the school’s baseball program. KPB offers seating for 2,500 spectators and can accommodate up to 5,000 fans with additional space on the terrace and grass berms. Temporary bleachers can be installed beyond the outfield walls to increase the stadium’s capacity to 7,000 for tournament games. The ballpark is also home to the eighth largest video boards in college baseball, measuring 48 feet wide by 30 feet tall. The modern and sleek design of the ballpark adds to the impressive resume of the SEC and makes it a viable option to enjoy the game in a grand atmosphere against nearby rivals in Louisville and division foes from Vanderbilt, Georgia, Georgia, and Tennessee. Food & Beverage 3 There are two main concession stands down each baseline that offers a variety of common ballpark fare. The classics are here from hot dogs, burgers, pretzels, popcorn, and nachos, and range in price from $3 to $5. There are also sweet delights that include funnel cakes, cotton candy, frozen lemonade, Sno Kones, and Dippin Dots also in that price range. Atmosphere 3 Kentucky Proud Park could easily be a Single-A stadium and one of the most impressive venues of its kind in the region. A wide-open concourse wraps around the diamond and offers a club, large areas, a kid’s play area, and grass berm seating. A large video board offers everything from player stats to replays and social networking. The seats behind home plate are wide and comfortable and general admission terrace seating is somewhat wide enough to seat a small family in certain sections. Kids play catch and run around the grassy areas down the left field line. The stadium provides an interactive screen that provides a wealth of data that fans can touch the screen to find out more details on, including info on players, former players who made the majors, stadium information, and much more. The Cats have in-between inning contests that include horse racing that is determined by fan tweets, lucky winners, and contests for kids. Home games feature at-time promotions that include free t-shirts, trading cards, beach towels, and TV raffles. This also includes Bark at the Park and May the Fourth Be With You Nights. Neighborhood 4 There isn’t much within walking distance from the stadium, but Lexington has a metro population of 517,000 residents. The city has a small-town feel and offers an array of nightlife, attractions, and plenty of distilleries and horse racing. There is a lot to see in town and within a small distance. The city is home to two horse racing tracks: Keeneland (thoroughbred) and Red Mile (harness) which offer racing throughout the calendar year. Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm and an educational theme park that offers attractions and is a great place for kids and racing aficionados. The area is in the heart of the Bourbon Trail. Nearby distilleries include Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, and Lexington Brewing & Distilling (located in town and also features a brewery). Castle & Key is the newest distillery that took residence in the old limestone castle built in 1887. Tours and prices will vary and all include a sample of bourbon on picturesque grounds. Downtown Lexington offers a collection of great restaurants and breweries that include Dudley’s on Short, Bourbon on Rye, Blue Door Smokehouse, Minglewood, and Creaux. Local breweries include Mirror Twin, Country Boy, Ethereal, and West Sixth. A personal favorite place to visit is the Historic Pepper Distillery District, a 25-acre entertainment complex that is less than 4 miles away from the stadium. Originally built in 1869 to produce bourbon, it is home to the James E. Pepper Distillery, Ethereal Brewing, Barrel House Distilling, The Elkhorn Tavern, Crank & Boom Ice Cream, and Wise Bird Cider Co. It is quite a popular place to visit in town. There is also the chance that your visit may coincide with a Kentucky Wildcats basketball game at Rupp Arena or a Lexington Counter Clocks baseball game at Wild Health Ballpark . When you include your visit with horse racing, bourbon tours, great restaurants, and other sports, you have enough to do on a very long weekend. Fans 3 The ballpark feels like a High or Low-A ballpark and there are times it feels like that. However, the fan's reaction is on par with a major league club. The spectators are decked in blue, focus on. the game, and cheer at appropriate times. With the Wildcats winning and the weather warm, expect the fandom to be inviting and thriving. Access 4 The ballpark features a large main entrance, plus a left field entrance for the parking lot in the rear of the stadium. The large concourse wraps around the entire field and is spacious with concessions, bathrooms, and other signage marked. The ballpark shares the same parking area with the football stadium Kroger Field and the softball stadium. Return on Investment 4 The prices of a ticket are $10 for home plate reserved seats and $5 to $8 for dugout chair backs and terrace/berm seating. The parking is free for home games, but certain rivals should encourage fans to arrive a tad earlier. The price of food is fairly inexpensive, but a can of beer will cost you close to $9. Extras 3 There are many nice touches throughout the ballpark that includes a map of Kentucky outside the main entrance, a team mural down the left field line, and wood-engraved designs for its large areas on the main concourse. There are also flashing blue and white light poles outside the exits of the ballpark. The Wildcats feature a horse race where fans can send a tweet with a hashtag of the horses' names. The results are uploaded to the video board, and fans get to see the contest after the 5th inning. Final Thoughts A very impressive ballpark for one of the SEC's most northern stadiums. Kentucky Proud Park should fit in nicely with the conference's marquee venues for college baseball and perhaps make a few more fans come out to check out the Cats during the baseball season. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Jim Darden Field 11th and Maple St Golden, CO 80401 Colorado School of Mines Oredigger Baseball website Jim Darden Field website Year Opened: 1937 Capacity: 500 Oredigger Baseball What is an Oredigger? Based on what I can tell from the Colorado School of Mines logo, an Oredigger is a burro with a stick of dynamite in its mouth, and a backpack and shovel strapped on its back. It is the team name of all athletic sports of the Colorado School of Mines. Started in 1874, the Colorado School of Mines (known as the Mines) initial academic programs were focused on gold and silver and the analysis of those minerals/ores. Hence the name Oredigger, I presume. The Mines began playing in the Division II RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) in 1906. The RMAC consists of 10 educational institutions in Colorado, two in New Mexico, one in South Dakota and one in Nebraska. Originally known as CSM Baseball Field, the field was built in 1937 as part of PWA (Public Works Administration) after the Great Depression. The seating is built into the hillside behind home plate. Significant renovations occurred in 2007, after which the ballpark was renamed Jim Darden Field honoring the Mines longtime baseball coach. It is part of the Colorado School of Mines Clear Creek Athletics Complex. The 2007 renovations incorporated new lights, a new scoreboard, dugouts, new bullpens, batting tunnels, foul poles, perimeter fencing, a backstop, an irrigation and drainage system and restored flagstone seating. A new concessions/bathroom building was added in the summer of 2015. Jim Darden Field sits just below the Mines “M” mountain monogram and has a beautiful view of Golden and the Coors brewery in the background. It is said Satchel Paige once pitched here (although not as an Oredigger). Food & Beverage 2 Jim Darden Field provides one concession stand with minimal food options, but enough to sustain a fan for a two hour or so ball game (even a two, seven-inning doubleheader). The concession stand, called “The Ore Cart,” is at the entrance area beyond the right field line. It offers three hot items, several snacks and beverages, and a Ben and Jerry’s ice cream treat. Hot items are 6″ hot dogs ($4), bratwurst ($5), and nachos w/cheese ($4). Snacks include peanuts or corn nuts, pretzels w/cheese, chips, candy, and popcorn and range from $2 to $4.50. Drinks on offer are coffee/hot chocolate for those cooler Colorado winter/spring days, Powerade, Coca-Cola in the bottle, and Genius juice water. Prices range from $2.50 to $3.50. No alcoholic beverages are sold at any Oredigger game. It appears outside food and drinks can be brought in. While there’s not a slew of selections, there’s enough for a baseball game and the prices are reasonable. A merchandise table/stand is not available at an Oredigger baseball game. Atmosphere 3 If you like the ping of the ball on the bat and watching the game of baseball, a Mines game is a perfect afternoon sporting event when weather cooperates in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado. The pregame music is a bit too loud for easy conversation, but it is broadcast more for the player warmups and batting practice. During the game, walkup music is played for home team players only and it is not intrusive. Between innings, plenty of country music is played, however there is a decent variety of top pop songs inserted into the mix. Bullpens are outside the fences beyond the dugouts. The symmetrical dimensions of the field (real grass and dirt in all areas) are 330′ L – 409′ C – 330′ R. A net is in the way of all seats unless sitting on rocks down first baseline (sitting on the rocks doesn’t look too comfortable; some fans bring chairs to sit on or near the rocks). The main seating area is built into the hill behind the home plate. It has updated slate and brick steps but no handrails to assist folks with traversing up and down the steps. A few picnic tables are provided in an area just behind the infield net and before the lower hill seating area begins. It’s a delight to see real grass and real dirt at this college ball field. As with many college venues, expect to see the ball players and coaches grooming the field before the game. Within the past few seasons, a blue Mines halo has been painted around home plate adding a little bit of the home team colors: blue and white. The scoreboard provides the basics: batter number, ball, strike, hit / error, and runs per inning. It is a little hard to read during an early afternoon game as it faces the sun. It gets clearer as the afternoon progresses. The Coors Brewery can easily be seen in the distance beyond right field. When entering the sports complex, a picturesque view of the “M” insignia in the mountain behind the ball field is in sight. Jim Darden Field is between the softball field and football field and next to the soccer field. Neighborhood 5 Colorado School of Mines is located in the beautiful downtown city of Golden, Colorado (about 15 miles west of Denver). Plenty of historic sites, restaurants and pubs, and outdoor activities are just steps away. For a bit of history, check out the Astor House, Clear Creek History Park, or the Golden History Center. For the outdoor enthusiast, the Clear Creek trail system runs through Golden and is just beyond the parking lot of Jim Darden Field. Kayaking, tubing, sunbathing, running, cycling, and even gold panning are just a few of the activities available along the waterway. A free Coors Brewery tour is worth a visit as it also provides a quick bus trip around historic Golden, as well as the brewery tour and free beer sampling. Golden also boasts four craft breweries with Golden City Brewery just two blocks from the ball field. Woody’s Pizza is the place to go for eats with an all you can eat pizza, soup, and salad bar menu for $12. Other places worth checking out are Buffalo Rose Saloon, Old Capitol Grill (the former Capitol Building), and the Golden Diner (good for breakfast or lunch). If staying downtown, the Golden Hotel near Coors (four blocks from the field) and Table Mountain Inn (about five blocks from the field) are non-franchised hotels in Golden that may be worth checking out. For more popularly known chains, several are off of US 6 including a Hampton Inn and a Holiday Inn Express about 3 1/2 miles from the field and downtown. Fans 3 The most vocal fans are the players; not the ones in the stands. The fans are mostly the family and friends variety with plenty of parents out watching their sons on the field. A respectful number of visiting teams’ fans are in attendance as a handful of the RMAC schools are within an hour or so drive. No distinct student section is found though several fellow Mine athletes attend the games which is nice to see. Access 3 Getting to the ballpark is relatively easy as it is just a mile off Interstate 70 and C-470, and off of US 6. Free parking is found in a lot on the corner of 11th St and Maple St. A short walk from the parking lot behind the outfield brings fans to the entrance (which is a folding table manned by students). The gravel walkway from that table down the first base side towards the seating doesn’t look too stable, but quite a few fans attend games with walkers or strollers so it must be steady enough. The attendants at the entrance table are pretty clueless about the stadium and its history. Maybe a fact sheet including stadium history and other information would be helpful for those students manning the entrance. However, they do know where to direct a visiting fan for food, drinks, and brews. No pets are allowed – that point was made clear. Although the Denver light rail system has the W line that goes to Golden, the station is not very near the Colorado School of Mines. One can take the W line from the Auraria train station (the station where Metro State is located) to Jeffco Government Center station in Golden. After getting off the light rail in Golden, the number 16 bus makes numerous stops and can take up to an hour before arriving at the Colorado School of Mines. It’s a two mile hike to hoof it from the light rail station to the school so that might be a better option if using public transportation. For security and safety purposes, the entire sporting complex at Mines is locked and closed when none of the sports have matches. So if only a look-see is desired, check the Orediggers team schedules first to make sure the complex is open during your visit. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices run $10 (adult); $5 (child, senior 65+, college students), and free for Colorado School of Mines students. Concession prices are fair, and parking is free. If there’s a doubleheader (there are several of those throughout the season), a fan gets to watch two games for the price of one. If watching the game without the frills and antics found in professional parks these days is your preference, the few dollars spent is worth an afternoon/evening out. Extras 4 Printed game day rosters are available when purchasing a ticket; good for those who keep score or want to keep tabs on the players on the teams. Doubleheaders – two games for the price of one; go to the second game, no one is at the ticket table (in fact the table is folded up and put away) after the end of the first game. There’s something to be said about watching a game at a field built in 1937. The PWA-installed flagstone seating was restored in 2007, so I’m not quite sure how original it is now. With more and more college ballparks using artificial grass and dirt, real grass and dirt are nice to observe on Jim Darden Field. Final Thoughts Set in a historic, outdoorsy, lively neighborhood, it is worth checking out the ballpark and complex on a warmer Colorado winter/spring day from February to early May. Then spend some time visiting Golden and experience all it has to offer.

Photos by Britton Anderson, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Carlson Center 2010 2nd Ave Fairbanks, AK 99701 Alaska Nanooks hockey website Carlson Center website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 4,595 Nanooks of the North Often confused with and satirically attributed to the NHL’s Washington Capitals star defenseman, the John A. Carlson Center (commonly known as the “Carlson Center,” and often abbreviated as “The Carl”) was named after the long-standing Fairbanks North Star Mayor. Originally designed and intended as a community and convention center, University of Alaska officials stepped in and sought to adapt its function as a sporting venue, including a full Olympic-sized ice sheet for hockey. Shortly after the facility opened in June of 1990, the UAF Nanooks–now known as the Alaska Nanooks hockey team officially made the 4,595-seat Carlson Center their home venue. After decades of playing at the on-campus Patty Ice Arena, that center was no longer viable as the team’s growing fan base far exceeded its capacity (seating 1,260). The Patty Ice Arena now serves as the team’s practice facility. The Carlson Center also serves as the primary site for commencement ceremonies for local high schools, as well as the University, and also was the home arena for the now-defunct Fairbanks Grizzlies of the Indoor Football League. The arena is designed in a horseshoe, with light seating available on the south side of the building, lower reserved seating, and mezzanine bleacher seating on the east and west sides of the ice. The north side of the building does not feature any seating, as the arena can be converted to a concert venue with staging set up on the north end. Food & Beverage 4 Typical arena food applies here, but what makes the food stand out is the benefits to the community. During Nanooks’ hockey games, area youth programs volunteer to prepare and take orders at the various concession stands around the concourse, and the profits from the sales benefit those programs. Just look for the Fairbanks Ice Breakers shirts to support the teams. In addition, local town favorite spots like The Fudge Pot also provide popular concessions as well. The general favorites: Fudge Pot – Caramel Apples (sliced or whole apples with caramel sauce and choice of assorted toppings are a big favorite) Carlson Cantina – Nachos Carlson (typical nacho fare, but a good-sized portion with quality ingredients–and a lot of them). Philadelphia Ave. – Philly Cheesesteak (the usual meat and cheese accouterment) Due to NCAA policy, alcohol is restricted from the seating area during NCAA events, but two beer gardens are available: one in the upper concourse on the northwest side and one on the ice level on the southern end. per glass of domestic, and often a local brewery selection is available for $6 per glass. Sodas are $3.25 for 24 oz. fountain, or $4 for a 32 oz. fountain. Commemorative cups are also available for $6 and include season-long $1 refills when you return the cup. Bottled sodas are available at the side vendors who typically charge $3.50 per 20 oz. bottle. Atmosphere 3 The arena is starting to show its age in some areas, but some recent funding has breathed new life into the building in recent years. Some of the lower seating is falling apart, but some of it is brand new. The new seamless glass was installed in 2010, but the relationship of the 14′ height to the seating area obscures some of the sightlines from the upper rows in the lower sections due to the connectors along the top of the glass. During rivalry games, the building gets very rowdy, especially with the Alaska Governor’s Cup series, which pits the Alaska Nanooks against their primary rival, Alaska-Anchorage. Neighborhood 4 The Carlson Center sits in the heart of Fairbanks, recessed on the banks of the Chena River neighboring other Fairbanks icons in Pioneer Park (commonly referred to as “Alaskaland”), and the Fairbanks Curling Club. Baseball and Soccer fields also serve the area. There are a few restaurants in Pizza Hut, Wendy’s, Denny’s, McDonald’s, and Subway as well as a couple of locally owned eateries to choose from within walking distance (depending on cold tolerance). The great part of Fairbanks is that nothing is very far away. A 5-minute drive opens up a breadth of other options, like local favorites Tubby’s BBQ and Sports Bar, The Cookie Jar Restaurant, Gambardella’s Pasta Bella, Bobby’s (Greek), Brewster’s Restaurant, and College Town Pizzeria. While visiting in the area, teams stay at the local hotel The Alpine Lodge (whose restaurant, “Finish Line”, is also quite good). The hotel is just down the street from the Fairbanks International Airport and is just a short drive down Airport Way to get to the Carlson Center. The Nanooks also host their booster club luncheon in their banquet facilities at noon Fridays on game weekends. Fans 3 Nanooks fans are among the kindest in the country. Hospitable and kind are understatements as visiting fans will be welcomed by the locals. Due to the distance and cost of travel, visiting fans are a rarity for out-of-state teams. NHL Hall of Famer Chris Chelios lauded the Fairbanks fans when he visited Fairbanks for the 2011-2012 CCHA Playoffs while his sons played for the Michigan State Spartans. Often fans need to be reminded not to leave their seats during play. While most adhere to this hockey rule of thumb, the beginnings of the period are often met with verbal reminders over the PA. Access 4 The arena’s surroundings not only complement the building but also serves as a convenience for fans to easily get in and get out of the parking lot. Great for those bone-chilling nights when you need to get out quickly. Several diverse routes divide the traffic well, and getting out of the parking lot and back on the road is often a sub-10-minute affair. But, if you don’t have your vehicle, getting out could get interesting. A few idle taxis will be around up front, but those are often quickly claimed and gone. With the traffic flooding the other direction, getting a taxi will take some time. Return on Investment 4 For around $17 per ticket for general admission and $25 for reserved, the cost of entry isn’t the cheapest in the league. Especially for those with families. While the discount for season tickets is pretty hefty, the upfront $250/seat cost is a lot to swallow for some. But the athletic department does a great job putting on a good show. The downtime is mitigated with fun and engaging activities, and lots of free swag is thrown around. And the Nanooks are the premier team in town. Extras 3 During Nanooks games, your standard accouterment of split the pot and other raffle tickets are abundant. Chuck-a-pucks are often sold as well, for another chance to win some cash if someone can hit the target. There’s nothing outside of the ordinary that’s done outside the game, as the highlight is and should be the hockey game. Several renovations have been done to the building to modernize the facility, but nothing is too flashy. Up until 2013, the Nanooks had reached some level of national fame when their then-introductory arena video featuring the Nanook mascot flying a jet plane and bombing former CCHA foes went viral. That video got the arena going quite often, and is still featured around the internet occasionally. The video has since been substituted for a highlight montage. Final Thoughts The Nanooks are the Pride of Fairbanks. The team has a long-standing history, and the Carlson Center has captivated fans with an abundance of memories and miracles. There are few comparisons to the environment in the Carlson Center when the UAA Seawolves come to town. The game extends far beyond a hockey rivalry and is among the best to witness in the country. Having been to Denver/Colorado College and BU/BC thus far myself, the Governor’s Cup is up there with the best of them, and there’s no better place to see it than the Carlson Center in Fairbanks, Alaska.

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

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Tatum Park 101 Parkway Blvd Hattiesburg, MS 39402 Hattiesburg Futbol Club Tatum Park website Year Opened: 2024 Capacity: 500 Futbol in the Pine Belt Hattiesburg Futbol Club was founded in 1980, the first and largest grassroots soccer training program in the Pine Belt region. The program's mission is to make sure as many children in the community as possible can get involved in soccer, regardless of ability, gender, socioeconomic status, or culture. HFC offers opportunities for boys and girls at all levels of play through its Recreational Academy and other programs. Over the past 40-plus years, hundreds of players have gone through the Academy on the way to four-year colleges – the Academy is based out of Tatum Park, the largest park in Hattiesburg. In 2019 Hattiesburg Futbol Club began fielding a team in the semi-pro Gulf Coast Premiere League (GCPL), featuring the best men's and women's players from the Academy. The men's club is nicknamed the Thunder, while the women's club is nicknamed the Storm. The GCPL is a lower-level semi-pro soccer league with 24 teams scattered throughout the Gulf Coast region – while the women's club still competes in the GCPL, in 2024 the men's club was relegated and moved one step up in the soccer pyramid, to USL League 2. USL2 is a lower league on the soccer pyramid but is on the national stage with 128 teams spread throughout 18 divisions. Hattiesburg FC is one of five teams that make up USL2’s Mid-South Division.   Food & Beverage   3 Tatum Park is a local park setting, so there are no permanent concessions on site. Instead, the staff brings in two food trucks set up in the parking lot, namely The Grill at Tatum Park, a food truck that has items such as burgers, hot dogs, chips, nachos, and candy. The prices are fairly reasonable with the most expensive item on the menu being the double cheeseburger costing $8. The staff also brings in a beer truck that serves 16 oz. bottled beer for $6.50; I consider these prices to be fairly cheap such that they will not break the bank.   Atmosphere   3 At 228 acres, Tatum Park is the Hub City's largest park and public green space. The park opened in the mid-1970s and is named after the Tatum Family, who were pioneers in the lumber industry in the city's early years. Considered a thriving force for the community and the crown jewel of Hattiesburg's Parks and Recreation department, the park consists of a baseball and softball complex with 11 total fields, an 18-hole disc golf course, a full-service tennis center, and over 20 rec league soccer fields. For the first five years, the Academy was based at Tatum Park, while the men's and women's clubs played on the soccer field at William Carey University, an NAIA college located nearby. In 2024 both the men's and women's clubs moved their matches exclusively to Tatum Park. As part of the men’s team’s move to USL2, a section of woods on the far northern part of the property was cleared away, and a brand new, state-of-the-art turf field was built, complete with bleacher seating and LED lighting surrounding the field. The new field faces north/south and is fenced in and tucked away on a back part of the complex. The new field is also soccer only, complete with Hattiesburg FC's logo and the Visit Hburg logo painted onto the turf at midfield. The food trucks are located in the parking lot, and they also have a small table selling Hattiesburg FC tees and jerseys. Banners for local sponsors surround the pitch on the fenceline, while the team benches take up the west sideline and a small grandstand of two sections of bleacher seating takes up the east. The VIP tent, a shaded seating area, is located at mid-field separating the two sets of bleachers. The bleachers filled up fast at the most recent match I attended, so many fans brought lawn chairs to set up in the grass.   Neighborhood   3 Tatum Park is located on the south side of the city in a rather industrial area. Other than the amenities found at the park, there is not a lot to do in the area. Down the street on Broadway is Topher's Restaurant, which serves a good breakfast, but other than that you will have to go into the city to find things to do. Hattiesburg is a college town of 50,000 people, but with college being out for the summer you can find plenty to do without having to deal with big crowds. Historic downtown Hattiesburg has seen a revitalization over the years, with many of the abandoned buildings being turned into local businesses – download the Visit Hburg app to view the different walking tours they have here, including an art trail, a HattiesBurger trail featuring popular restaurants in the city, and a historic downtown walking tour. Hattiesburg also has many family-friendly options as well; make sure you check out the Pocket Museum if in downtown. The museum’s location is purposely hidden, as you are supposed to find it by walking around looking for clues; it's hard to explain, but the Pocket Museum is considered Mississippi's tiniest museum and is located in an alley near Saenger Theatre. Down the alley are hundreds of tiny figurines and displays set to a particular theme that changes each month. The Pocket Museum has become a big attraction for all ages and is not hard to find anymore, as you can just look for the line of people coming out of an alley. Another popular place to visit downtown is The Lucky Rabbit, a huge two-building vintage antique store. It’s also hard to explain what this place is, but trust me – it's well worth a visit as it is no ordinary antique store. Another attraction is Hattiesburg Zoo, which also makes a great visit for the family. The zoo is affordable and quite big for a city like Hattiesburg; you can't miss the zoo as you will see the giraffes from the side of the road. Also, next to the zoo is the brand new Serengeti Springs Water Park, which just opened in the summer of 2024.   Fans   3 Hattiesburg Futbol Club has been around for over 40 years, and thus has a dedicated group of supporters and followers, as many of the people in the Pine Belt who played youth soccer played through the youth league Academy when coming up. For years, when both clubs were in the GCPL and played at William Carey the fan support was evident, partly because of the local connection – many of the players played at various local colleges, or are from the Pine Belt area. When the men's club was relegated to USL2, the story was covered by the local news and in the newspapers, so there is a following here; there is even a podcast dedicated to the club, available on Spotify. It also helps that during the summer months, there is not much else going on in terms of events in the Hattiesburg area. As mentioned the bleachers fill up fast, especially as the season progresses and word of mouth spreads around town about the club. I recommend bringing a lawn chair and setting up on the grass – the two sets of bleachers fill up rather quickly, so even if you can grab a spot you will be sitting shoulder to shoulder. Alternatively, fans who purchase VIP tickets are allowed to bring lawn chairs to set up on the pitch right in front of the fence.   Access   4 Tatum Park can be kind of difficult to find if you are not familiar with the area – the complex is located on Highway 11 just off Highway 49, on the south side of the city away from all the main attractions. If coming from out of town, more than likely your hotel will be closer to Hardy Street/Highway 98 at Exit 65. Your best option would be to get on I-59 from Hardy Street, then travel south about five miles on the interstate, until you get to Highway 11 at Exit 60. Take this exit and the park will be right there on the right; the field is located toward the back side of the complex, and the ticket table is in the parking lot. After purchasing your ticket you are given a wristband, so you are free to come and go throughout the whole match.   Return on Investment   3 General admission tickets to a Hattiesburg FC match are $10, and you are free to sit anywhere you want – for the VIP experience tickets are $20, and you can sit under the tent or bring your lawn chair onto the pitch to set up. Getting to see some of the best college soccer players in the area compete is a plus, not to mention factoring in the wonderful facilities at Tatum Park, so I consider this a good return on investment.   Extras   3 Tatum Park also hosted another big event in the summer of 2023 – with a nickname like Baseburg Hattiesburg has always been a big baseball town, so it was no surprise when the Hub City was selected to host the 2023 U8 Dixie Youth World Series. The tournament took place at the Larry Doleac Baseball Complex, located on the park’s property. Over 20,000 people converged on the city for the 5-day tournament, which was a huge boost for the area's economy, pumping in over $4 million. The Director of Coaching for the Academy and Executive Director of the Club is a local soccer legend named Danny Owens. Since 2005, Owens has been the women’s soccer coach at nearby William Carey University – since Owens took over the Lady Crusaders have been an NAIA powerhouse in soccer, advancing to the NAIA national championship four times, winning once in 2018. His teams have had winning seasons in 17 of the 19 seasons he has been the coach, winning 14 conference finals and making 15 trips to the NAIA national tournament. In addition, Owens was inducted into the William Carey Sports Hall of Fame. In past years both the Hattiesburg FC's men's and women's clubs have played their matches at William Carey, on a field named Danny Owen Field. Hattiesburg is also home to another semi-pro soccer club that plays in the Oak Grove community west of town. Southern States Soccer Club has played in the National Premiere Soccer League (NPSL) since 2016, playing at a soccer-specific facility called Oakes Training Center , which Stadium Journey visited in 2023. Southern States also sponsors a local academy, similar to Hattiesburg FC.

Photos by Chris Green , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Smith’s Ballpark 77 West 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Salt Lake Bees website Smith’s Ballpark website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 14,511 The Bees Knees The Salt Lake City Bees have a rich history in Utah, meaning taking in a game will feature history in the making for a storied franchise with major league heritage. The likes of Mike Trout have come through this facility en route to the big show, and tomorrow’s stars are on display at this beautiful facility. Food & Beverage 3 Food items at Smith’s Ballpark aren’t varied, but they are quite affordable. Jumbo hot dogs run $4.75, while adding either cheese or chili adds a dollar to the price. Regular sized hot dogs are $3.75, with the addition of cheese or chili once again adding a dollar. A veggie tray costs $4.50, while nachos cost $5.50. Other items include pretzels, churros, popcorn, candy, peanuts, crackers, and chips, with prices from $2 to $6. Drinks run the gamut from soda to coffee and energy drinks, ranging in price from $3.75 to $5.25. Atmosphere 4 Smith’s Ballpark is a beautiful facility, with the main concourse looking like it has a modern industrial theme. The seats are comfortable, and fans can also wander the stadium at will, giving you the option to take in the game from either your seat or the outfield viewing mounds. The view in the outfield rivals the best in the majors, with beautiful mountains adorning the view for every fan at Smith’s Ballpark. Neighborhood 4 Smith’s Ballpark itself is about a 10-minute drive south from downtown Salt Lake City, sans traffic. To the east are mountains, with plenty of hiking trails for nature seekers, and just blocks away are solid local eateries in the form of Lucky 13 and Piper Down (an Olde World Pub). For hotels, the Hilton Garden Inn in Sandy, UT is just a short drive from the facility, as is Residence Inn by Marriott Salt Lake City Sandy. For visitors, taking in sights such as Temple Square and the Clark Planetarium are popular stops. Fans 4 Fans at Salt Lake City Bees games range from the youngest fans and families to diehard loyalists who have been coming for years. Each of them can tell you what the team’s history has been, who the players on the field are now, and what they think the future holds. The fans are also incredibly polite, meaning this is a great atmosphere to bring the littlest fans. Access 5 Getting to Smith’s Ballpark is easy, as it is located literally a few blocks away from the convergence of I-80 and I-15. Driving on the highway means you are bound to see the stadium lights at night, and even if you miss the exit, the next exits both north and south of the park aren’t far. Parking on site is limited but easy to find, and several nearby lots are open for fan parking as well. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are pretty low, meaning you won’t have to spend a lot for a day at Smith’s Ballpark, even if you have a large group. Concessions are also affordable, which means feeding the family at the ballpark is both easy and cost effective. Extras 2 There is a kid’s train that drives around the walkway in the outfield above the viewing mounds, and there is also a sign behind home plate, that shows the names of former Salt Lake Bees players who have made it to the majors. Final Thoughts Taking a drive to see the Salt Lake Bees is well worth it for both local fans and baseball fans in general. Smith’s Ballpark is beautiful, the fans are great, and the overall costs mirror those that fans have come to expect at a minor league baseball stadium.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Schroeder Park 3100 Cullen Blvd Houston, TX 77204 Houston Cougars website Schroeder Park website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 3,500 Welcome to the Cougars Den The University of Houston has fielded a college baseball program since 1947 – in the years since the Cougars first took the field, the squad has made the NCAA Tournament an astounding 16 times, has made the College World Series twice, and in 1967 were the runners up. They have sent dozens of players to the big leagues, with the most prominent arguably being former Cy Young Award winner Doug Drabek. The Houston Cougars baseball team first took the field at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, located on campus, in 1995. Originally called Cougar Field, the University implemented a multimillion dollar upgrade, which began in 2013 and culminated in the installation of a new field-turf surface, video board, and clubhouse. Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park was home to the 1999, 2000, and 2015 NCAA Regional, as well as the 2000 NCAA Super Regional. Over the years the stadium has earned a reputation for being a gem in the American Athletic Conference, and is considered one of the great baseball venues in Space City. Food & Beverage 3 When people attend a baseball game, there are certain expectations they have when it comes to the grub; this is ingrained in the cultural psyche – hot dogs, peanuts, Cracker Jack, etc. Games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park cover those metaphorical bases and then take it up a notch – the stadium has two main concessions stands near located along the baselines. These stands offer your traditional game fare as well as cheeseburgers and potato wedges ($6), bottomless buckets of popcorn ($8), and nachos ($5.75). For most home games, a food truck can be found near the main entrance – this is a great bonus for fans looking to break away from the norm. In a similar vein, there is a Chick-fil-A stand on the grassy area outside the seating area along the first baseline – this stand offers a pared down menu from the chain, including their popular regular and spicy chicken sandwiches, waffle-cut chips, iced tea, and lemonade. Directly adjacent to the Chick-fil-A stand is one for Karbach Brewing Company – this local craft brewery is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the state’s best, and its stand sells drafts by the cup of some of its most popular selections. So while Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park doesn’t have everything under the sun in terms concession items, I think you’ll find enough to satisfy your appetite, and get the most out of your Cougars baseball experience. Atmosphere 3 Baseball is a game that is deeply tied to its past – the generational aspect of the game is part of its charm, as the experience is one that parents can pass on to their children. And from the moment you step through the gates at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, you understand you are entering a place where baseball matters. On the walls adorning the exterior of the field are the names and pictures of the all-time great Houston Cougars. Banners also adorn the outfield walls highlighting the accomplishments of the school over the years, and this history ties fans to the team – this connection is one that is immediately felt. Another great aspect of baseball is how it embraces individualism, and this quality is almost always displayed in the parks and fields the game calls home. Most facilities have some built-in features that promote this individualism, and at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, it is the hillside seating along the foul lines. These general admissions areas are great vantage points from which to catch the action, and possibly catch a coveted foul ball. Neighborhood 4 Being the fourth largest city in the United States means that Houston has a lot to offer its visitors. For first-time visitors, enjoying a visit to Houston and a Cougars baseball game will involve some planning, as there is a tremendous amount here to see and do. One recommendation is to visit the reason that Houston has earned the moniker of Space City. Just on the outskirts of town lies Space Center Houston , one of the main hubs for NASA – few places can match the history and sheer coolness factor of the place where the line “Houston, we have a problem” was born. Tours are outstanding, and there are tons of hands-on experiences for kids. If you are looking for something outside of the box to visit, head over to Lucky Land . This two-acre site highlights all the beauty and wonder of Asia by combining historical artifacts (like a replica of the famed terracotta warriors of China) with irreverent displays like the Panda Village and Happy Buddhas display. When it comes to food in Houston, there are figuratively countless options for you to choose from, and many are within shouting distance of Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park. A couple of great choices include Chief’s Cajun Snack Shack and Alfreda’s Soul Food Café – Chief’s is considered one of the best hamburger joints in the city, and Alfreda’s offers some classic Southern-style comfort food. You can’t go wrong with either. There are dozens of hotel options near the University of Houston. Options, as always with a big city like Houston, range from as high-end or low-end of a hotel as your budget allows. Some options near Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park include Club Quarters Hotel Houston and the Hilton University of Houston . Fans 3 Last season, the Houston Cougars set a new attendance record at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, and have consistently been one of the best draws in the American Athletic Conference. In the (free) parking areas surrounding the field, you will see fans tailgating while decked out in their red and white gear. And if it is a big conference game, you can expect an even larger and even more raucous crowd. Regardless of the crowd size on the day you come, this is very good fan base that is passionate about their school and about their baseball team. The stadium has a great mix of students and alums, including many families – kids and baseball go hand-in-hand, and having the kids here greatly enhances the overall gameday experience. Access 2 The University of Houston and Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park is located in the city’s historic Third Ward, which is easily accessible by traveling on Interstate 45. Signs clearly show the way to the stadium, and there is ample free parking surrounding it. Houston is a major hub for airline travel, and both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport are popular for travelers. You can get to the University of Houston campus from either of these airports in less than 30 minutes, with one significant caveat: as is the case with everything regarding the city of Houston, traffic needs to be factored in – the highways that loop the city tend to get congested, especially on the weekends when many Cougars baseball games take place. Return on Investment 2 Ticket prices for Cougars baseball games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park are extremely reasonable – general admission seating can be had for as little as $3 for some games. This is an incredible bargain for a school and team that annually faces some of the best out of conference competition in the nation, and one that has some of the best on-the-field talent in the country. If you factor in the favorable concessions prices and the free parking, a person, group, or family can really get a bargain when they attend games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park. Extras 1 While Cougars games take care of the regular accouterments of a traditional baseball game – the sights, smells, and sounds of the game are all there in spades – there is really very little in terms of “extras”. However, the experience still offers things like the always entertaining player walk-up songs, as well as the frequent contests in-between innings. While there is nothing flashy going on, games here do feature one of the great traditions of the game of baseball – fans are invited to get up and sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch. Final Thoughts If you’re a fan of baseball, I think it would be hard for you to find a venue that you didn’t enjoy. However, I think even the most casual of fans would be able to find and highly enjoy the charm of a game at Darryl and Lori Schroeder Park – it is an ideal venue for college baseball. If you’re in Houston during the season, make sure you stop by for a visit. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photo courtesy of Michigan State University athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Spartan Stadium Red Cedar Rd and Shaw Lane East Lansing, MI 48824 Michigan State Spartans website Spartan Stadium website Year Opened: 1923 Capacity: 75,005 Party with Sparty In a span of 15 years, the Michigan State Spartans football program laid claim to six National Championships (1951-1966). It was a period of domination that has never been duplicated. Those halcyon days of Spartan supremacy may be gone, but much of the tradition of a proud program remains today. Spartan Stadium has been the home of the Michigan State football team since 1923. It’s great to imagine that six championship squads have played in this stadium. Of course much has been renovated since those years in the 1950s and 60s. Nearly $100 million has been pumped into stadium renovations since 2005, and the additions have certainly helped the overall game day experience. More seating, suites, and a beautiful press box were the results of the initial round of renovations. New scoreboards, ribbon boards, and sound system were installed in time for the 2012 season. For the 2014 season, new construction on the north side of the stadium provided an updated gate and entrance, additional restrooms and concessions, an updated locker room, as well as a training center, media center, and recruiting lounge. The stadium arms race is in full swing in the Big Ten, and the folks in East Lansing are doing their part to ensure that Michigan State football keeps up. Perhaps, they will even raise the program to its glory days. After all, it’s been nearly 50 years since their last national championship. Food & Beverage 4 One interesting twist on the food and beverage selection inside Spartan Stadium is that some of the best, or most unique, food items can be found in the corner of the stadium nearest the student section. Travel to the southeast corner of the concourse and you’ll find local Sparty’s Pizza ($4.50 a slice) and Maria’s Tacos (3 tacos or a burrito for $7.50). Both of these are perfect for students on a Saturday, and may make you feel like you’re back in college again as well. The best food items in the stadium however are found near section 24 at the Turkey Man stand (you can also find a stand set up outside the student entrance before the game begins). Here you’ll find gargantuan smoked turkey drumsticks ($10, and a personal favorite), as well as turkey sandwiches or wraps ($6), turkey ribs ($6, also delicious), turkey sausage, and turkey wings. Unless you have some kind of an aversion to turkey, this is the place to go at a Spartans game. General concessions are found throughout the concourse, with enough stands to avoid lines. Basic offerings include bratwursts and Italian sausages ($5), hot dogs ($4.50), soft pretzel ($4), popcorn, nachos ($4.50), peanuts ($3), and other expected stadium food items. Soft drinks (referred to as “pop” in Michigan, not “soda”) are from Pepsi with drinks going for $4.50-$5, or $8 in a souvenir mug. Bottled water is $4. Overall, there is a good selection, friendly service, and short lines throughout the stadium. Prices are up slightly since our last review during the 2013 season. Trust me on the turkey stand though, and head over there. Atmosphere 4 Michigan State was founded as an agricultural college. The campus includes the longest continuously run botanical garden in the United States. This all sets the background for what is a lovely campus to walk around, with paths that are surrounded with trees. About two hours before kickoff, it is worthwhile to make the trip to the corner of Kalamazoo and Chestnut where you’ll find “The Spartan” statue. Designed by Leonard D. Jungwirth in 1945, the current bronze statue is a replica of the original terra cotta design. The experience of the marching band playing as the team walks by, individually touching the statue, is a very cool way to get things started. If you want to get some great pictures of the team as they walk up to the statue, consider hanging out closer to McLane Baseball Stadium, and the team will walk right by. As with many college football experiences, the tailgating is a huge part of game day. You’ll find cars and tents up around the campus, and the smell of grilled sausage in the air. The most popular spot seems to be Munn Field, just outside Munn Ice Arena, where you can find parking for $20. There is no alcohol allowed on Munn Field, but I have noticed that this is enforced only for those people who are being deliberate and obnoxious. Parking garages are available in the vicinity for $20 and $15. Once the gates open, about an hour and half before kickoff, you’ll find students pouring in as they try to get the best seat in the student section. The rest of the crowd is slower to descend, enjoying their tailgate party. In any case, make sure you’re in your seat 25 minutes prior to kickoff. The Michigan State marching band will take the field about 20 minutes to kickoff, and you don’t want to miss this very talented squad. The football team will take the field about eight minutes before the kick, with the iconic Sparty, one of the best mascots in college athletics, leading the charge and planting an American flag at mid-field. The new scoreboards and sound system will help to enhance your experience. The end zone scoreboards give you all the information you need to enjoy the game, and also keep you updated on other scores throughout the country. The real stars as far as energy are the students. Yells of “Go GREEN!” are answered with “Go WHITE!” and you can’t help but join in. Seating consists of cold metal bleachers throughout, with decent leg room. Given a choice of seats, find your way into the upper deck, above the students so that you can have a great view of the play on the field, and soak in the infectious energy of the crowd. Neighborhood 4 Anytime you’re in East Lansing, your first stop should be Harrison Roadhouse. They have an excellent beer selection and delicious burgers. Best of all, if you’re not tailgating, you can park in their parking lot at the cost of $20. In exchange they give you a voucher for $20 in food, so if you plan on eating there, parking is essentially free. You then have a walk of about a mile through the scenic campus to Spartan Stadium. This is my recommendation for those who aren’t planning on tailgating. Another favorite is the Dublin Square Pub. It is a slightly upscale version of your Irish pub, with a beautiful bar and good food. There are plenty of hotels in the area, but it’s a good idea to book well in advance if you’ll be staying near the stadium on a Saturday game day. I have stayed at the Howard Johnson on Trowbridge Road in the past, and it is adequate for your stay. Other options in the neighborhood include a trip to the Michigan State Capitol building, about three miles to the west. You may also want to check the schedule of the Lansing Lugnuts to see if they have a home game at Cooley Law School Stadium if you want to catch some minor league baseball (for early season football games only). Basketball fans should walk over to the Breslin Center, and get a picture with the bronze statue of Magic Johnson. You may also want to check the schedules for the volleyball team, soccer team, and hockey team as you may have an opportunity to see two games in one day depending on the month of the season you’re visiting. Fans 5 Spartan Stadium averages more fans per game than its official capacity lists, typically at or around 20th in the nation in average attendance. Students will be lined up hours in advance to get into the stadium, and they are loud and energetic throughout the contest. You’ll find generations of Spartan alumni and fans. It’s a happy atmosphere, especially when the green and white are winning. Access 4 Once you get inside the stadium, it is fairly roomy, especially for a stadium in its 9th decade hosting football. Restrooms are spacious and reasonably clean. There is certainly plenty of parking, and the price is reasonable. You’ll pay anywhere from $10-$20 depending on how much you’re willing to walk. You can park in Lot 89 at the corner of Mt. Hope Road and Farm Lane and take a shuttle to the game, which will cost you $4 round trip. If you plan on tailgating, then consider purchasing a parking pass in advance, as most of the lots closest to Spartan Stadium are filled up. There’s a parking garage on Harrison, which charges $20 to park on game days. It’s a good option if you can’t find anything else, or if it is a rainy day. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are priced as either regular games or premium games. Prices range from $50-$100 for regular games, and $80-$150 for premium games (games against rivals or big name opponents). Concessions and parking are both affordable, and if you do the experience the right way and spend the day tailgating or on campus, then you will surely have an experience that is worth every penny you spend. Extras 4 One extra point for the full rosters of their Big Ten winning squads on the Spartan Stadium wall near Gate D. Another extra point for being in a building that hosted the winners of six National Championships. An additional point for the renovations and commitment to continuing the game day experience at Spartan Stadium. The ribbon boards above the end zone are an especially nice addition as they maintain the current scoreboard of conference foes and the rest of college football. Final Thoughts There’s no doubt that Spartan Stadium is one of the best college football stadium experiences in the country, and certainly a venue that you should try to see once in your lifetime. It’s a lot of fun, has plenty of history and enthusiasm, and it is priced right.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan Amarillo, TX 79101 Amarillo Civic Center website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 4,912 The Newest Amarillo Hockey Team Editors Note: The Amarillo Bulls wer e replaced by the Amarillo Wranglers in the 2021–22 season and moved down the block to the Amarillo Ice Ranch . --- The Amarillo Bulls (NAHL – North American Hockey League) play in what’s known as the Budweiser Bull Center (the Coliseum) of the Amarillo Civic Center located in the Texas Panhandle. The Amarillo Civic Center contains a variety of multipurpose areas including a 4,870 fixed seat coliseum (4,912 total capacity) and a separate auditorium with 2,324 seats. Two exhibit halls, two ballrooms, and meeting rooms are designed to meet a wide variety of needs including business meetings, banquets, dances, conventions, and trade shows. The stadium is owned by the city. Other hockey teams that have played at the Civic Center are the Amarillo Gorillas (CHL – 2002 – 2010), and the Amarillo Wranglers (CHL – 1968 – 1971). The Amarillo Venom, champions of the 2013 LSFL (Lone Star Football League) play indoor football at the Civic Center. On the day I visited in Oct 2013, one could attend a gun show, a gem and mineral show, a choir concert, and/or a Christmas craft fair during the day, then see the Amarillo Bulls play hockey in the evening at this venue. There was also a ballet being performed at the same time of the hockey game. It’s a pretty happening Civic Center. The Amarillo Bulls won the Robertson Championship Cup (the oldest junior hockey trophy in the United States) in the 2012-2013 season. The Amarillo Bulls continue to be a winning team in the NAHL in the 2013-2014 season and the fans are supportive and appreciative of their effort. Food & Beverage 3 There are several fixed concession stands as well as unique specialty stands at the Civic Center. Fixed stands include the traditional hamburger, hot dog, polish sausage, Philly sub sandwiches, nachos, Frito pies, and the like ranging from $4 – $7. Unique specialty stands include Mexican burritos and super nachos ($6.25 – $8.50), cupcakes ($3.50), Groovy pop (gourmet popcorn), and a chocolate banana, cotton candy, and caramel apple stand. Pizza on a cardboard plate is also offered. Between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm there are 12 oz pre-game $2 beer specials (Bud, Bud Light, Coors, Coors Light). When the game starts, 16 oz beers (same choices) are $5. Those are the only beer choices I saw so don’t expect to see any local brews here. Coke is the soda of choice with Sprite, Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper and Diet Dr. Pepper available ranging from $2.50 – $3.75. There are minimal lines at the concession stands between periods to get your food/drink options. Atmosphere 4 Temperature inside rink is perfect. No need to bundle up or bring a blanket. A sweat shirt or hockey jersey will be fine. It did get a bit cooler in the third period so a light jacket is also recommended for those who tend to get chilly. Recommended seating – center ice, above the glass, facing the bench is section 108, row Q (handicapped), row P will be fine too. If you like being closer to the ice action, then rows A – F will suit you. The penalty boxes are between the player benches. There are no luxury suites, just one level of seating. The second level is used for broadcasting and cameras. The concourse width is perfect (not too crowded) and one can circle it in its entirety. The arena is bright and colorful with red, green, orange, and blue catwalks above the seating area. There is no center scoreboard which is refreshing. Instead, two panels and screens hang at each end of the ice behind the goals and show the scoring and live game action. There is a four person percussion band/group that provides live music and entertainment throughout the game. It is a very nice touch when visiting a Bulls game. I understood about 15% of what the PA Announcer was stating so this may be an area of improvement. The Amarillo Bulls team saluted the fans after the game by circling the center ice mark and raising their sticks to the fans. Nicely done. Neighborhood 3 The Civic Center is downtown near several government buildings. The downtown area is very walk-able and safe. Adjacent to the Civic Center is a small park called Amarillo Centennial Plaza that displays plaques, bricks, water arrangements, and a globe all which recognize the Amarillo history. It is worth taking a stroll through the park. All of the paths are wheelchair accessible in this plaza. For places to stay the Courtyard Marriott is the closest and it is only ½ mile from the arena. There are several other hotels 1- 2 miles from the arena including a LaQuinta Inn. Most of those are one exit east on I-40. When traversing downtown Amarillo (and other parts of Amarillo, as well), you will notice many painted horse statues. The Painted Horse exhibit is worth visiting. Make it a scavenger hunt when you visit the area with your family. Another tourist spot in Amarillo is the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum. This venue is “a great place to bring Panhandle visitors where they can experience a piece of the West; it’s a place for horse lovers of all ages to learn more about the breed; and it’s a quiet sanctuary in which to appreciate some outstanding artwork.” Restaurants within a ½ mile of the Civic Center include Acapulco Mexican Restaurant & Bar (can sit outside in the sun on a fine fall afternoon), highly recommended Eddie’s Napoli’s (Italian), and the Burger Bar (they offer hand spun shakes). Night clubs in the area are Rain Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge and Wild Cards, both within walking distance of the Civic Center and near the Marriott. Fans 4 No electronic noise makers are allowed in the coliseum. That doesn’t stop the fans. Cowbells, manual air horns, glass banging, and good old shouting and applauding abounded during this Amarillo Bulls 4-0 win against the Corpus Christi Ice Rays. There are your traditional hockey chats against the visiting goal tender as well as expressed anger at the referees for giving a game ejection to one of the Bulls players for instigating a fight. The fans throw rubber balls on the ice after each goal which is something unique. When I attended a game here in 2004 for the Amarillo Gorillas, the fans threw out plastic yellow bananas. It seems to be a tradition here in Amarillo and one well accepted. Fans for the most part, know their hockey etiquette and do not go down to seats while puck is in play. It’s kind of funny that the individuals wearing Amarillo jerseys are not the ones paying much attention to that etiquette (at least at the game I attended). Access 2 Amarillo International Airport is about 10 miles from the Civic Center. The Civic Center is walk-able from other destinations in downtown Amarillo including the Courtyard Marriott. Plenty of parking free of charge is available at the Civic Center. I did not see public transportation options to the arena. There is no bag check upon entering the arena, a nice surprise. Just don’t bring in outside food or beverages. There are wide concourses with just a little congestion between periods where most of the concession area is housed. Bathrooms are plenty. They are small, clean and serve the crowd well. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range from $12 – $22. I went with the $15 ticket and it was fine. You can move about the arena as you wish to get different perspectives and take photos. There is no parking fee and food is reasonably priced. And, you get a good hockey game and witness some fantastic Amarillo hockey fans in a bright and colorful arena. Check the Amarillo Bulls website for special ticket deals and events. One example includes “The Budweiser Party Zone.” For $300 dollars you get 30 tickets and 30 beverages with exclusive seating at ice level. Get your buddies and their significant others and kids out and enjoy a Bulls game this season. Extras 3 Be sure to get your game day notes and handout available at the customer guest relations desk. This includes game day rosters and other recent noteworthy news in the NAHL. There is a merchandise table with shirts, jerseys, pennants, caps but no lapel pins. There are banners displayed in the arena for the Bulls championships including the 2013 Robertson Championship as well as other teams who have played in the Civic Center, e.g., IFL Dusters. Listen to the Amarillo Bulls on Sports Radio 1440. Other points of note include the four person percussion group (nicely done) and a stuffed piggy that slides across the rink after a Bulls goal with a wee-wee-wee sound in the background. A massage school in Amarillo offered massages during the game I attended. Final Thoughts If you like the minor league/junior league hockey atmosphere and you’re in or traveling through Amarillo, do take the time to visit the Amarillo Bulls. If they’re not in town, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of other things to see at the Amarillo Civic Center.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Segra Field 42095 Loudoun United Drive Leesburg, VA 20175 Old Glory DC website Segra Field website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 5,000 Glory to DC Old Glory DC joined Major League Rugby in 2020, playing its home games at Cardinal Stadium on the campus of the Catholic University of America. Unfortunately, that inaugural season was cancelled after only a few games due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in March. Old Glory returned the next year, but moved to the suburb of Leesburg in Northern Virginia, about an hour outside the District. The team plays its home games at Segra Field, which is also home to Loudoun United of the USL Championship. Food & Beverage 5 Segra Field has a wide selection of food and beverage available at Old Glory DC games. A few permanent stands sell an extensive variety of alcohol as well as soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks. However, for the best food selection, fans should check out the multiple food trucks parked on the concourse. Options may vary by game but there will always be three or four different trucks to choose from, all offering an excellent choice of options. Prices can bit a bit high, as one might expect from a food truck, but they are serving good food that is worth the price. Atmosphere 4 An Old Glory DC game can be a full day of fun for fans, with several curtain raisers involving college or youth teams played before every home game. There is also often a band playing music on the concourse pregame for fans to enjoy, creating the possibility for hours of fun before the OGDC game even starts. As for the stadium itself, there are seats on both sidelines, all chairbacks, plus a few rows of bleachers behind one endline and some luxury suites behind the other. There is a very small scoreboard in one corner and a portable videoboard in another that is on the back of a truck, but to actually see them from some parts of the stadium can be challenging. The PA announcer does a great job of engaging the fans and keeping them entertained throughout the match. Neighborhood 2 Segra Field is located in the middle of a county park, and there are really no restaurants or things to do in the immediate vicinity, nor is there anyplace to stay, unless you count the county jail. Your best bet is to head a few miles into downtown Leesburg, where there are plenty of places to eat, visit, and stay. This can be about a ten-minute drive, but it’s really your only option. The Leesburg Public House and Tarbender’s Lounge are popular places to grab a drink and a bite to eat. Those looking for something other than a bar may want to check out Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers or the Leesburg Diner, although the latter is only open for breakfast and lunch. There are many good options in Leesburg, but the fact that all of them are so far from the stadium really brings this rating down. Fans 3 Although Old Glory does not always publish official attendance numbers, they typically draw a couple thousand fans a game, which is about average for Major League Rugby. The fans who attend are engaged and can be seen in "OG-DC" chants throughout the game. Many of them are fans of the teams that played in the curtain raiser games and decided to stick around, but others are just there to see Old Glory. Regardless of why they come, they are a small but passionate core fan base that rallies around the team. Access 3 Segra Field is difficult to access and difficult to get around. although the situation has improved since the stadium opened. Fans will most likely find themselves taking Exit 3 off the Dulles Greenway (State Route 267) and then proceeding a few miles to the stadium. Part of the trip involves narrow roads, which are unlit and very dark at night, and there is even a one-lane bridge you have to cross. Parking is free, which is an improvement since previously there was a charge for it. If the lots fill up, there is auxiliary parking across the street. Keep in mind the Greenway and the Dulles Toll Road (as Route 267 is known east of Dulles Airport) both charge tolls, and you can expect to pay around $10 each way to get here from Washington, D.C. or other locations inside the Beltway. If you’re coming from closer to Leesburg, the toll will be less. Once you are in the stadium, it does not get much better. The concourse is basically just asphalt with temporary lighting, and to get to your seat, you need to walk up all the way to the top of the section and then back down to your seat. This does not seem very efficient. There are permanent restrooms located in repurposed shipping containers, and while they are large enough for the crowd, they are very cramped. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $20 for seats behind or close to the end lines, and go up to $55 to sit at midfield. While $55 is a bit pricey for this level of rugby, the fact that less expensive tickets are available mitigates that. Parking is free, and while concessions can be expensive, the food you get is still good value food for your money. Throw in the chance to see several games on top of the Old Glory one and this is an excellent value. . Extras 4 One bonus star for the ability to see several curtain raisers and get three or even four matches for the price of one. There is a team store on the concourse near the entrance. A third bonus star for the live music pregame and a fourth for the pregame opportunity to meet players on the concourse for autographs or selfies. Final Thoughts Rugby is a small but slowly growing sport in the United States and Old Glory DC is no exception. They have a small but passionate and loyal fan base, and as the sport continues to grow in this country, so will the atmosphere at an OGDC game.

Photos courtesy of Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Bill Greehey Arena 1 Camino Santa Maria San Antonio, TX 78228 St. Mary's Rattlers website Bill Greehey Arena website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 3,800 St. Mary Serpents Founded by the Society of Mary in 1852, St. Mary’s University is a private Catholic institution of higher learning that has the distinction of being the oldest Catholic university in both Texas and the U.S. Southwest. When the university achieved senior college status in 1925, they began their formal athletics programs. The school was an all-male college until admitting its first female students in 1963. The St. Mary’s Rattlers – named in honor of the many serpents that were removed when clearing the way for their athletics fields – first fielded a basketball team in 1926. They achieved a great deal of success under legendary Head Coach Buddy Meyer while members of the NAIA. The Rattlers would make the leap in time for the 1999-2000 season to NCAA Division II. As members of the Heartland Conference, they would win conference titles in 2001, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2013, and 2015. Now, members of the Lone Star Conference, St. Mary’s are looking to repeat that success. Since 2000, in time for the school’s big leap up in divisions, the Rattlers have played at their on-campus gym, Bill Greehey Arena.   Food & Beverage   3 Bill Greehey Arena boasts two concession stands in the main lobby; however, during the last game I attended, only one was open. The offerings are your standard hot dogs (plain or with chili and cheese), nachos (regular or with chili), popcorn (honestly some of the best I’ve had outside a big-time pro sports venue), chips, candy, bottled sodas, sports drinks, and water. The one fun outlier I found at the stands was being able to buy Pop-Tarts if I so chose – I like Pop-Tarts, and it wasn’t something I was expecting. By and large, this is pretty much the standard that you’d expect for a program the size of St. Mary’s. Nothing is outstanding, but it will get the job done while you’re watching a Rattlers game.   Atmosphere   3 By and large, the atmosphere at Bill Greehey Arena is pretty good – the facilities look fantastic for being a quarter of a century old. There isn’t a bad sightline in the building, and most of the seats are chairbacks and not bleachers, which is always a plus. The walls are adorned with championship banners from every sport ranging from golf to baseball. In addition, the rafters behind the goals are filled with the retired jersey numbers of great Rattlers of the past. Furthermore, in the lobby, you can find trophy cases with the school’s athletics hall of fame. My one gripe, if it can be called that, is that there isn’t anywhere in the gym that sells St. Mary’s merchandise; that would add a little more to the atmosphere and allow fans to purchase a souvenir.   Neighborhood   4 The St. Mary’s University campus is situated in the inner city of San Antonio, on its historic west side. It is close to a 15-minute drive from the city’s vibrant downtown area, which is where most visitors to the city go, as that area is home to the Alamo , HemisFair Park , Tower of the Americas , and the San Antonio River Walk . This area is going to be your best bet if you’re looking for things to do before or after Rattlers games at Bill Greehey Arena. As discussed in a previous review of Our Lady of the Lake Saints , the St. Mary’s campus is also near one of San Antonio’s hidden gems: Woodlawn Lake Park . Known for its distinctive lighthouse, the park has been a favorite for residents for over a century. Loaded with walking and biking trails and docks for boating and fishing, it is also celebrated for its fireworks displays during the New Year’s and Independence Day holidays. When looking for spots to eat either before or after your Rattlers game, you’re in luck – just a short drive from campus is the satellite location of Henry’s Puffy Tacos . One of the claimants to the throne of the originator of the puffy taco (read all about those here ), this spot is a local institution and should be visited by everyone. Also nearby is La Sorrentina Italian Restaurant ; if you’re in the mood for Italian comfort food – spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, etc. – it doesn’t get much better than La Sorrentina. In terms of lodging, you’ll need to drive a little further away from the campus to find something. Unless you’re booking a vacation rental, finding something near downtown is your best option.   Fans   2 This was a puzzling one for me to rate. I came early to the gym to catch a little of the game that the women’s team had before the men’s. While the crowd wasn’t enormous, maybe 100 to 125 or so in the stands, they were loud and energetic, and they only got more so as the game went into overtime. Almost as soon as that game was over, that crowd exited. Those who stayed or came for the men’s game displayed only a fraction of the energy. This made a difference in how empty the gym felt. It kind of sucked the life out of the game. I also noted just a sparse number of fans wearing the yellow and blue of the Rattlers. This could tie back to the lack of a merchandise area. I don’t want to be too overly critical, however. I’m sure the time of year I last attended a game here played greatly into the attendance numbers.   Access   4 The St. Mary’s University campus and Bill Greehey Arena are located in the inner city of San Antonio, but not too far from Interstate 10, if you choose to drive in. It is just under a 20-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport. Once there, as mentioned earlier, the parking is ample and free. If you choose not to drive, VIA Metropolitan Transit, the city’s public transportation option, offers routes to the campus. My one caveat when going to games here is that you’re going to be going through multiple residential neighborhoods, which means you’ll be hitting lots of stop signs and stoplights on your trip. Plan accordingly if you want to ensure you’re in your seat by tipoff.   Return on Investment   3 Single-game tickets for Rattlers games at Bill Greehey Arena can be had for as low as $10 per person for general admission seating. Parking is plentiful and free in the area around the athletics complex, and I didn’t see anything on the concessions menu that cost more than $3.50. While the Rattlers rarely bring in any big-name opponents to their home court, this is still a very affordable way to catch a college basketball game. The Rattlers have a tradition of winning, so this is a great way to see some hoops without putting too big a dent in your wallet.   Extras   2 There is not much to write about in terms of Extras – there are no cheer nor dance teams, and the school’s mascot appears at baseball games only these days. There is also no band to listen to. The only thing keeping this score from being lower was the ball boy/floor sweeper/unofficial flag waver. That young man was working hard throughout the game ensuring the court was dry, and he would also carry a St. Mary’s flag the length of the court during breaks, as well as waving it furiously during halftime.   Final Thoughts While I was a little disappointed by the atmosphere – the energy of the fans – and the lack of Extras, I still enjoyed myself in what was my first visit to a Rattlers game; it’s basketball at a purer level. If you’re a hoops fan, you’re going to enjoy yourself, and if you’re looking for a way to spend a free afternoon or evening in San Antonio, you can’t beat the price. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Kohl Center 601 W Dayton St Madison, WI 53715 Wisconsin Badgers men’s hockey website Kohl Center website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 15,325 On the Kohl Center The six-time national champion Wisconsin Badgers occupy the Kohl Center, a massive venue by college hockey standards, seating a capacity of 15,325. The arena opened in 1998 and is the home of the Wisconsin Badgers men’s and women’s basketball and hockey teams. Only two college hockey arenas are larger (Ohio State and Nebraska-Omaha), but even though it is a big arena, it is also easy to navigate and comfortable, with plenty of excitement to fill the huge space. The arena is named for United States Senator Herb Kohl, who graduated from Wisconsin in 1956. Senator Kohl donated $25 Million to the building of the Kohl Center. At the beginning of the 2012-2013 season, the ice was officially named “Bob Johnson Rink,” in honor of former Wisconsin coach Bob Johnson (known to many in the area as “Badger Bob”). It is a fitting tribute to the man who led the Badgers to three National Championships. If you are a fan of college hockey, or just a sports fan in general, then you will enjoy a Wisconsin hockey game at the Kohl Center. Food & Beverage 3 There is plenty of selection at the Kohl Center for something to eat or drink, but the prices are just a tad bit on the high side. I make it a rule to stick to cheese and encased meats whenever I see a sporting event in the state of Wisconsin, and the brats ($4.50) at the Kohl Center certainly are the way to go. Other basics are available as you walk the concourse including hot dog ($3.50), cheeseburger ($5), soft pretzel ($3.50, plus another $1 for cheese), slices of pizza ($4), nachos ($4), and Italian sausages ($4.50). Fried cheese curds used to be on the menu at Kohl Center, and I was disappointed not to find them this time around. Some slightly more unique items include the chicken Caesar wrap ($6), Qdoba chicken burrito ($6), sliders (3 for $5). Coca-Cola is the beverage provider. Fountain drinks go for $3.50-$4.50, along with bottles of water ($4). Hot beverages are available including coffee, hot chocolate, and cappuccino ($3, or $6 in a travel mug). Desserts can be picked up at the Sweet Shoppe concession, or you can grab an overpriced bag of candy ($3) like M&Ms, Skittles, Mike & Ike’s, or Snickers bar. Twizzlers go for $4. Overall, it is a pretty good selection, and the service is fast and friendly, but the prices leave something to be desired. Atmosphere 5 As you approach the well-lighted Kohl Center exterior, you immediately begin to get that feeling that you are going to be in a special place. Through the front entrance, and you find the Dale Chihuly glass sculptures, known as the Mendota Wall (representing nearby Lake Mendota). It’s a beautiful piece of art, even if you don’t know about Murano-style glass. Walking the concourse, you’ll find numerous displays, including an interesting timeline of Wisconsin sports accomplishments, which includes championship trophies for all of the Badger athletic teams. It is worth your time to arrive at least 30 minutes before the puck drops so you can walk the concourse and learn more about the history of this prestigious athletic history. When you finally leave the concourse and poke your head through the black curtain that shrouds the aisles, your eyes will glow red. Red plastic seats rise up three levels.. The center-hung scoreboard has a large screen on all four sides offering real-time game action, as well as critical replays, and fun interaction with the crowd. The band occupies the back seats of section 117. They are a major factor in the overall atmosphere, belting out current tunes as well as the familiar refrains of the fight song, “On Wisconsin.” The student section is one of the best in all of sports, stretching in the western end of the arena from sections 113-116, and up into the further reaches in the 200 level. A large sign hangs marketing the area as the home of the “Crease Creatures.” Regardless of where you choose to seat, you’ll find better than average legroom, and a comfortable chair. There are no cupholders so you’ll have to place your cup at your feet if you want to clap for the Badgers. I would recommend sitting in section 207 or 209 so you have a good view of the action on the ice, both benches, and the center logo looks right side up. Bucky the Badger is a wonderful mascot. He loves to be among the students, the young men and women of Madison obviously return the affection. Bucky also makes his presence known on the ice during breaks, and throughout other sections when he can. Neighborhood 5 Madison, Wisconsin is one of the best college towns that I have visited, and I have visited a lot. The Kohl Center is only blocks away from the main hangouts along State street and beyond, about a mile and a half from the Wisconsin State Capitol Building. If you are coming to Madison for a game, get here as early as you can. Better yet, make a weekend out of it. It is a lovely town with plenty of great restaurants and bars. If you are looking for a great bar, then the Red Shed is the place for you. Located near the corner of University and Frances, the Red Shed is one of the institutions of Madison. Famous for their Long Island Iced Teas, try one, even if you wouldn’t normally order the drink. You’ll be glad that you did. They have darts and a pool table, so this is a good place to spend a few hours. Just bring cash, as they don’t accept credit cards. Also in the neighborhood is the very popular State Street Brats, which is worth a stop for their signature encased meat and loaded toppings bar. Nitty Gritty is the closest bar, about a block from the Kohl Center. If you like locally brewed beers, then check out Vintage Brewing Company, where they also serve pretty good burgers. If you’re a bit of a foodie, then venture over by the Capitol and try Coopers Tavern. They have 28 beers on tap and some really good and elevated food. I tried the reuben and the Sconnie egg (essentially a scotch egg, but covered in Wisconsin bratwurst), and both were outstanding. Another place I can highly recommend is The Old Fashioned. Named for the classic cocktail, which has variations throughout Wisconsin, this is another foodie and drink snob paradise. I love the inexpensive snacks that can be purchased at the bar like homemade beef jerky, pickled turkey gizzards, and pickled eggs. I could have happily spent hours here. Fans 5 Wisconsin fans love their Badgers, and it begins with the very strong student section. Standing throughout the game, the students don their red and white and cheer on their team. At times, they use more profanity than many would like to see at an event that should be family-friendly, but it is hard to criticize their efforts. After a Wisconsin goal, the students will call on Phil, a long-time fan in the front row of section 111 to begin “the count”. After the second goal, for example, Phill will lead the chant “1-2- we want more!”, alternating towards the students and to the rest of the crowd. After a fourth goal, the students may chant “we want ice cream,” as local chain Culver’s gives out coupons for free ice cream when the Badgers score five goals or more. At the end of the second intermission, the fans stand with arms around each other and sing “Varsity,” the school’s alma mater, along with much of the rest of the crowd. You won’t hear jumping around like at a football game at Camp Randall, but the atmosphere is very spirited and fun. Access 5 If you time it right and come into town around 4 pm, then you may be able to find metered street parking within a couple of blocks from the Kohl Center. For the most part, this is two-hour parking ($1.75/hour) and is not monitored after 6 pm, so for $3.50 or less you may be able to find cost-effective parking, just blocks from the arena. Try Frances Street. If that doesn’t work out, then there are plenty of parking garages charging $15 for a game. Traffic can back up a bit after a game, but it’s nothing too harsh. Plan on 10-15 minutes of frustration at the worst, and you should be on your way. Inside the arena, the concourses are very roomy and clean. I witnessed several staff cleaning up as the game was going on. The restrooms seem to be large enough to accommodate the crowds and are also very clean. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range in price from $20-$24. Keep an eye out for “Family Four Pack Deals” where you can get packages of discounted tickets and food as well. Overall, you will likely be seeing a good hockey team, as the Badgers have appeared in the NCAA Tournament for the majority of seasons since moving to the Kohl Center. Parking is a little expensive but can be mitigated if you arrive early, as you should enjoy this wonderful neighborhood. Food is better than average and fairly priced. Overall, you will get what you pay for at Kohl Center. Extras 4 One extra point for the six championship banners that hang from the rafters of the Kohl Center. I like that they are focused enough on championships that they don’t hang individual “Frozen Four” banners, with just one banner commemorating their NCAA Tournament appearances and 12 Frozen Four appearances. One extra point for the combination of a great student section, pep band, and mascot. These three elements can make or break a college sports experience, and each is a major plus in this case. One extra point for the town of Madison, one of the best college towns in the United States. It’s a great place to go to school, to live, or to visit. Finally, an extra point for all of the history on display inside the Kohl Center. Make sure to give yourself some extra time to see everything on offer. Final Thoughts Time a visit in November and you may be able to see two games on your trip to Madison depending on the basketball and football schedules. College hockey fans should come to a Wisconsin game- it’s one of the finest venues in college hockey.

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Jaguar Stadium 710 Leigh Ave San Jose, CA 95128 Map It Bellarmine Bells website Jaguar Stadium website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 56,000 Welcome to Jaguar Stadium In the heart of West San Jose stands a stadium filled with memories. Although it is officially the home of the San Jose City College Jaguars, Jaguar Stadium has been the training ground for several Olympic gold medalists over the years, including Millard Hampton, Andre Phillips, and Bruce Jenner.  Ironically, the sport that draws the most attention to Jaguar Stadium is not junior college football or track and field but high school football. Beginning in 1993, the 11,700-seat stadium has hosted the Central Coast Section playoffs, providing memories for countless individuals while playing host to so many great teams and individuals. It has also hosted the local powerhouse Bellarmine Bells for the past 30 years. And that is where we find ourselves this Friday night.  While the campus itself has gone through some major changes over the years, Jaguar Stadium remains virtually untouched. Of course, that doesn’t mean that it hasn’t gone through changes of its own. The field and bathroom are both newer, while the school keeps the end zone bleachers practically spotless. Meanwhile, the scoreboard looks like it's been there since before Bellarmine moved, as neither down nor distance is ever indicated. In a way, that one glitch gives the massive stadium all the nostalgic flavor that it needs. After all, Jaguar Stadium is always ready to host more memory-making moments. Food & Beverage 3 They have a wide selection of food with varied prices. While the hot dogs are only $5, the pulled pork sandwich is $12, which is more than a ticket to the game. What is most intriguing is their selection of toppings. What I assumed was chili turned out to be a tomato-based relish that made my unsuspecting taste buds dance. The hot dog is long, thick, and grilled just perfectly. The Bellarmine Dads Club knows how to put together a successful barbeque.  Bellarmine Dads Club Hot Dog, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 It’s been more than 30 years since the Bells moved in, and they’ve certainly made an excellent effort to make it feel like “home.” As you walk towards the entrance, you may be greeted by the Bell’s mascot and pass several canopies where merchandise is sold. The ticket takers are both friendly and helpful, showing no ill will to those wearing the colors of a rival school.  Even though the Bells were 0-4 going into the game we reviewed, the atmosphere said otherwise. Of course, this was a rivalry game against the hated Valley Christian Warriors. Even down by 21 in the middle of the fourth quarter, the Bellarmine fans stayed tuned in to what was going on, cheering boisterously when their team made a big play.  But as excited as their fans are, there is one glaring issue: their student section is woefully undercrowded. Bellarmine’s student section has historically been one of the most rambunctious in all of the Bay Area, providing electricity on Friday night that is hard to replicate. It is nearly impossible for them to provide that same energy with a student section that is barely a quarter full.  There is no halftime entertainment. The band just continues to play in the stands while the field remains empty for the next 15 minutes.    Neighborhood 3 The city of San Jose’s demographics are expansive, with some areas much richer than others. San Jose City College is right in the middle of the middle-class area of town. With it being so close to so many businesses, restaurants, and the 280 freeway, it is in a terrific spot for commerce and conversation.  Just around the corner from the junior college is a slew of restaurants along S Bascom Avenue, including Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Subway, and McDonalds. If you’re in the mood for brunch the next day, then the K Cafe Patisserie and Tea House, just a block away from all of those fast food establishments, might hit the spot.  The closest hotel, by far, is the Row San Jose, BW Signature Collection. While it’s only a mile away, it is across the 280. Other sports to see during the Bells' football season include the San Jose Barracuda (AHL), less than five miles from Jaguar Stadium, the San Jose State Spartans football (3 1/2 miles east), or a San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) match (five miles north). Fans 2 Bellarmine is an all-boys school, so they don’t have cheerleaders. Instead, they have “yell leaders.” Dressed in striped long-sleeved shirts, this group of men is responsible for rallying the student section and, therefore, making the home stands come to life. That’s hard to do when the student section is barely a quarter full.  Still, this group of young men persevere and never let up when their football team fails at finding the end zone. It is because of them that much of the home crowd remains for the entirety of the game, always holding out hope that their beloved Bells could pull out a miracle. Access 4 There is a large parking garage that is free on gameday. If you’re not driving there, then there are multiple bus stops within walking distance from campus. The Fruitdale Light Rail station (Green Line) is a .5 mile walk. Both Uber and Lyft can easily travel straight through the parking lot.  Once you reach the stadium, the restrooms are right by the entrance. As far as sports venues go, those restrooms are pristine, as it’s very obvious that SJCC works constantly to keep them as clean as possible, even during the game. It’s a luxury that not all stadiums provide.  Despite this being a junior college stadium, getting into the stadium is no issue. There is no screening process or bag check, making it an easy entry.  Return on Investment 3 The $11 spent on gofan.com is worth it, and the $5 hot dog fits just right in a tight budget. Jaguar Stadium is a good, clean place to watch a high school football game. . Extras 2 As you walk into the stadium, you are immediately met with massive end zone bleachers. While this is normal for high schools in Texas, this is hardly the norm for California. Still, the end zone bleachers are very far from the action, making it a better place to engage in a lively conversation than watching a football game.  Aside from the massive end zone bleachers, one of the coolest unintended features of Jaguar Stadium is the “playground.” The school’s high jump structure is right next to the visitor’s bleachers, and bored children love to bounce and mess around on it. It is certainly a sight for sore eyes. But still, one must remember that this is not intentional and is simply an act of childlike imagination. Final Thoughts Jaguar Stadium serves as one of the largest high school football stadiums in the Bay Area, and while it might not look overly impressive to many, it should be worth the trip to watch a game.

Photo Courtesy of UC Davis Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Phil Swimley Field at Dobbins Stadium Orchard Rd Davis, CA 95616 UC Davis Aggies website Phil Swimley Field at Dobbins Stadium website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 3,500 Dobbins Stadium - Home of the UC Davis Aggies UC Davis is relatively new to the NCAA Division I scene and their facilities are equal to the level of play they are now playing in. Dobbins Baseball Complex opened in 1986 as Community Stadium after being "built almost completely with volunteer time, materials and funds" according to the 2013 media guide. In 2002, Dobbins was upgraded with permanent restrooms and concession stands as well as a press box. These additions could help to make Davis a legitimate host for the NCAA regionals. Perhaps the most well-known former Aggies baseball player is Daniel Descalso, current infielder of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Food & Beverage 3 Dobbins Baseball Complex is a cash-only facility and there is one concession stand. Their entrees (hot dogs, polish dogs, nachos, soft pretzel) are reasonably priced between $3.50 and $5.50, while their peripheral items like sunflower seeds and candy are at a high $3 clip. Bottled soda and water, Minute Maid juices, hot chocolate, and coffee are available from $3 to $3.50. No alcohol is served at Dobbins Baseball Complex. Atmosphere 4 I really enjoyed my experience at the Davis baseball game. It's certainly a baseball-only experience but that is a good thing in this case. All of the seating aside from right behind home plate is bleacher seating. Fortunately all of the bleachers had backs to them and went well down each base line. This is nice as you're able to move around to take in the game from different viewpoints. My favorite spot to sit is about halfway up the 10 rows of bleachers, in line with far end of the dugout. This allows fans to be clear of the backstop netting and close to the action. In one of the more unique aspects at a stadium I've seen, Dobbins and adjacent Aggie Soccer Field share a concourse. Therefore, when you walk down the concourse you turn right down the stairs to baseball seating and left down the stairs to soccer seating. The soccer seating has an awning while the baseball seating does not. The playing surface is probably the best I've seen amongst Northern California college stadiums. It makes for a clean look to go with clean lines of the seating. Neighborhood 4 Dobbins Baseball Complex shares a parking lot with the Activities & Recreation Center and The Pavilion, home of the Aggie basketball team. Aggie Stadium is a few blocks southwest of the baseball field. The UC Davis campus butts up against the downtown Davis neighborhood. This area is a vibrant mix of students and families and visitors should take advantage of the atmosphere that the neighborhood provides. Popular restaurants downtown are Froggy's Grill, Woodstock's Pizza, and Burgers and Brew. The best place for a pregame beer is The Grad. It's your typical college-town sports bar with plenty of TVs, 50 plus beers on tap, and a full kitchen. All this within staggering distance to the front gates. Microbrew enthusiasts take note that there is indeed a brewery in Davis serving up some suds. Sudwerk is a brewery that creates their own versions of traditional German-style beers while still providing some of the California staples like pale ales and IPAs. A farmer's market is held year-round, rain or shine, on Saturdays at Central Park. Davis is a well-known bicycle paradise; heck, a bicycle is even in their town logo . Davis is also the home to the US Bicycling Hall of Fame and has plenty of bike lanes. One of my favorite things about visiting the UC Davis campus is all the activities that students take part in on a sunny day. Just beyond the right field wall was a huge green open-space where there were four ultimate frisbee games going on. On the other side of campus, a rugby match was taking place. It seems students make sure to get out and exercise on the weekends. Fans 3 Aggie baseball fans seem on-par with the rest of the college baseball landscape. They are polite and altogether engaged in the game. Most of the fans were gathered near home plate while they were otherwise sprinkled down the baselines. There were quite a few students that were there taking advantage of the free admission to the baseball game. I should mention the strong showing the fans from Cal-State Fullerton who probably made up about a third of the fans in attendance. I've seen Fullerton play on the road twice now and both times many of their fans were in attendance. Access 5 The UC Davis campus is located conveniently off of highway 80, 15 miles west of Sacramento and 75 miles east of San Francisco. Getting there isn't difficult but you should certainly expect significant traffic during peak hours after work. Downtown Davis is easy to get around for first-timers as many of the streets progress numerically and alphabetically, so you never feel like you're unsure of your location. There is a local bus service, UniTrans, operated by UC Davis that services much of the city and all of the campus. Buses are driven by university students and cater to the inevitably odd schedules of college students. Beyond the local buses, there is also an Amtrak stop that stops downtown. This train goes through Sacramento with bus connections that can take passengers as far as Tahoe and Reno. Going the other direction, the "Capitol Corridor" train passes through Berkeley, Oakland, and San Jose, with connections to San Francisco. The parking lot is right next to Dobbins Baseball Complex and is free on weekends. There may be a small fee during normal school hours. Once inside the baseball stadium getting around is a breeze as there are plenty of walkways to get you where you need to go. Restrooms are clean and plenty for the amount of patrons. The one place things back up a bit is at the concession stand as its line uses the walkway between itself and the press box. Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets are $8 and parking was free the day that I went. There isn't much in the way of extras at Dobbins but you can't beat the price to catch a game. You can bring in your own snacks so you can avoid any additional expenses. I'd make a whole day of it and hit a nearby restaurant or bar. Extras 0 There is no reason to award extra points for extras. The closest item would be their new scoreboard in right-center field. I really wish they would find a place to honor the greatest players and teams from their history like many other schools do.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Cadet Ice Arena 2169 Field House Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80840 Air Force hockey website Cadet Ice Arena website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 2,470 Air Force Academy Hockey’s Cadet Ice Arena The United States Air Force Academy Cadet Field House has as much curb appeal as a post-World War II federal government building: little if any. That’s because Cadet Field House is a post-World War II federal government building. There isn’t a festive lily garden or a white picket fence to welcome visitors to the building that, aside from serving as the nerve center for Air Force Academy athletics, houses the Falcons’ 2,502-seat Cadet Ice Arena – the team’s home since the building opened in 1968. That’s okay. Inside, an engaged crowd roots on the Falcon skaters. Seats are close to the ice and fans and cadets pay close attention to the game. And Cadet Ice Arena seemingly has a promising future. It’s in the middle of a 6-year, $115 million project that includes updated locker rooms and lounge areas, a new center scoreboard and upgraded arena lighting, renovated bathrooms, and a geothermal power system for the rink’s four ice chillers. Although most of this work is complete, evidence of HVAC work remains at the arena’s south end as of early 2023. But even exposed ductwork cannot detract from the experience of an Air Force Hockey game at Cadet Ice Arena. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at Cadet Ice Arena are all about the basics. There are no artisanal cheeses or curated tasting menus. But the concession stands, all located on the arena’s west side, provide exactly what hockey fans want – and it’s not a charcuterie trolley. It’s hot dogs ($5), giant pretzels ($6), nachos ($7), and, for those who want to inject fruit-flavored frozen sugar water directly into their digestive systems, Icees ($7). The Air Force Academy is a Pepsi campus, with those products selling for $5 per 20-ounce bottle. Concessions at Cadet Ice Arena, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey The aptly named “Wild Brew Yonder” offers canned cocktails ($10) and canned beer ($8) just outside of the Falcons’ team store, in the arena’s northwest corner. Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and several local brews are available. Atmosphere 4 Falcon hockey enjoys a strong following. Home games frequently sell out and the in-game experience rates well. A new scoreboard above center ice and a new audio system, both installed before the 2019-2020 season, make the Falcons’ hype videos look and sound even better. The L.E.D. lighting installed as part of the same renovations has similarly improved the experience of watching the game. Sight lines are good from most seats. However, avoid sitting in the lower corners. There is no way to see action in the near corner at the other end of the rink. Be aware, however, that protective netting does not extend into most of the seating along the sides (only the ends). Fans need to remain vigilant, lest an errant puck turns a pleasant outing into a trip to the emergency room. Neighborhood 4 Cadet Ice Arena’s “neighborhood” is tough to evaluate because the Air Force Academy lacks a comparative peer. It’s a military service academy set on 18,500 acres in the shadow of Pikes Peak. It doesn’t have a nearby commercial district of bars, shops, and restaurants, although those can be found by leaving the Academy grounds and driving 15 or 20 minutes – or less. A cluster of bars and restaurants can be found a five-minute drive east of the Academy’s north gate on North Gate Boulevard. Buns & Bubbles (162 Tracker Drive, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO, 80921) is one such place. More than just a great name, B&B is a locally owned sandwich shop that serves Vietnamese sandwiches and boba tea. In the same development, the Brass Tap (13271 Bass Pro Drive, Suite 110, Colorado Springs, CO, 80921) has more than 150 beers on tap, as well as great burgers and chicken sandwiches. But if you elect to stay at the Academy, you can explore a truly one-of-a-kind campus. It has approximately 30 miles of single-track trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding – all open to the public. The campus is also home to a zoo’s worth of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, elk, mule deer, wild turkeys, and red foxes. The Academy’s famed Cadet Chapel, with 17 spires that rise 150 feet in the air, began an eight-year renovation project in 2019 that will include the restoration of the chapel’s 24,000 pieces of stained glass, its pews, and its two organs. Even without the campus’s most recognizable landmark closed until 2027, the campus is among the nation’s most beautiful and interesting. Fans 5 Falcon hockey has a loyal following that frequently fills Cadet Ice Arena. In January 2023, Air Force (6-15-2 at the time) hosted Niagara University (11-9-2) in a game starting at 4:05 p.m. on a Saturday. The game sold out a day earlier, even though neither team is ranked and the schools are not traditional rivals. The zeal for Air Force hockey does not end at the ticket window. Fans know their hockey and are engaged once the puck drops. Cadet Ice Arena isn’t huge, so its smaller scale puts fans closer to the ice. Access 3 Cadet Ice Arena is located on an active military installation so visitors must stop at the Academy’s north gate (exit 156 on Interstate 25) for identification checks. Long lines can form but the cadets at the gate move cars through quickly. Once on the Academy’s grounds, a pleasantly meandering three-mile drive awaits. Parking lots adjacent to Cadet Field House do not require a long walk to the arena. The primary corridor on the arena’s west side has concession stands, restrooms, and the team shop. It’s sufficiently wide that ambulatory coagulation does not occur. Ongoing construction on the east side of the arena has winnowed foot traffic there. All in all, there’s plenty of room to move around – even with a large crowd. Note that Cadet Field House frequently hosts events other than hockey. Track, swim, and gymnastics meets, and basketball games can all be played in the building. Fans in the ice arena can see the field house’s indoor track through windows at the north end, in fact. This means that bottlenecks can form in places where people don’t like bottlenecks, like parking lots and entrances into buildings. Return on Investment 4 Tickets won’t consume your savings, as they range from $29 to $39, depending on location. An Air Force hockey ticket sells for significantly less than a ticket to a Colorado Avalanche game and is at the lower end of ticket costs when compared to fellow Front Range college hockey schools University of Denver ($25-$88) and Colorado College ($35-$60). Not only that, parking is free. Prices at concession stands are average. Extras 3 Cadet Ice Arena earns a point because it has a promotion called “Space Force Night.” A service academy dedicated to flight has the closest kinship of all the service academies with the United States’ newest military branch. “The Bird,” Air Force’s costumed human mascot, skates as part of team introductions. Much respect to mascots that skate. For the 2022-2023 school year, the Commander-In-Chief’s Trophy resides in Cadet Ice Arena. That coveted award goes to the football season’s winner of the games played between the Air Force, Navy, and Army. The Falcons defeated both the Midshipmen and the Black Knights in 2022, bringing home the trophy. Commander in Chief Trophy at Cadet Ice Arena, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts The Air Force Academy is worth a visit for its beauty and tradition alone. A game at Cadet Ice Arena is a different and fun way to experience the school. The program is consistently competitive and, especially against Army or local rivals Colorado College and the University of Denver, things can get loud in Cadet Ice Arena.

Photo Courtesy of Yuma County Library District Our next of several features on former Cactus League spring training facilities, some of which still exist and some do not. Yuma, AZ enjoyed three spring training sites since the Cactus League started in 1947. Municipal Stadium Then, Courtesy of Jim Patrick. Today’s 16th St (US 95) runs along the first base line, 1st Ave runs along the right field line Yuma Municipal Stadium, Yuma, AZ The stadium, also known as Panther Field, stood for more than 20 years on the corner of 16th St and 2nd Ave. It supplied Yumans with horse races, circuses, and other events. Converted to a ball field in 1950, it provisioned the Yuma Panthers – a Class C minor league team. Yuma Municipal Stadium was located here. The Sun Sox in the Arizona-Mexican League (1955-1956) played their home games in the park. In addition, it served as the home diamond for the Kofa High School and Arizona Western College ball teams as well as Babe Ruth Leagues. It hosted the newly branded 1954 Baltimore Orioles spring training, the first year after the MLB club St Louis Browns became the Orioles. They hated it and chose not to return. It had a small field and rickety stands. The foul lines originally were 310 ft but the right field line got trimmed to 288 ft when 1st Ave got widened and paved. A high screen was put up but even so fly balls in other parks became home runs here. 16th St and 1st Ave Yuma , Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey. The expanded 1st Ave and what was once the right field corner of Municipal Stadium/Panther Field. With Desert Sun Stadium completion in 1970 and the Interstate 8 development (with a 16th Street interchange), the land became more valuable for businesses than as a ball field. Today, a Chase Bank and the police station sit on the land. Former Municipal Stadium Infield, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey, Parking lot between the Chase bank and the police department. The infield of was once Yuma Municipal Stadium.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Stanford Stadium 625 Nelson Rd Stanford, CA 94305 Stanford Cardinal website Stanford Stadium website Year Opened: 1921 Capacity: 50,000 Stanford Football Pride Stanford football is one of the most successful programs over the last few years in college football, especially within the PAC-12. The experience at Stanford Stadium on game day is also one of the best there is – the stadium’s location, fan base, and overall aesthetics make for a remarkable experience in a picturesque setting for fans to flock to. Food & Beverage 5 This isn’t your mom and dad’s football food – the Stanford food stands have great eating options, from giant and juicy burgers and chili dogs to Alaskan salmon burgers. However, perhaps the tastiest item on the menu is a bison burger called “The Big Game.” There are also great salads and healthy food options (black bean burgers are a popular choice). If you like BBQ, Niman Ranch has responsibly raised and chemical free ribs from heaven. The hot dogs and sausages are huge and range from standard sausage to bratwurst and Italian sausages. For drinks, you have a choice of your standard sodas in regular sized cups, or the 3-D Stanford Athletics-themed commemorative cups. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at Stanford Stadium is that of a relaxing college football experience. While seemingly an oxymoronic statement, one minute in the stands helps you realize how true it is – the roar of the crowd fills the air during the game as the Stanford faithful cheer on their team. However, the view over the end zone grandstand shows a beautiful forest of trees to give a wonderful setting for football. At the top of the end zone is a flat grassy area for fans to relax, sit down, or even toss a football for fun. Additionally, the air quality in Stanford is clean, carrying the fragrance of the nearby pine trees with it. The weather is almost always perfect during football season; never too hot or too cold, a visit to Stanford will bring with it ideal conditions. The Stanford band is smaller than some, but no less entertaining. A loud train horn also sounds every time the Stanford Cardinal score a touchdown, and a cannon explodes after every scoring play. Neighborhood 5 Stanford is a short drive from San Jose, San Francisco, and the rest of the Bay Area, but immediately surrounding the stadium and the Stanford campus is a beautiful suburb of quaint homes. Stanford Stadium is located in Palo Alto, a wonderful melting pot of quality dining and shopping. In Palo Alto, fans can find various bars that are popular among the locals for before or after game entertainment. The Patio is one of the most recommended places by fans at the game, and Gott’s Roadside and Howie’s Artisan Pizza are also two popular food stops literally across the street from Stanford Stadium. There are also various choices for different kinds of food, ranging from Indian, Asian, Italian, and American restaurants. Being in California, there is also a quality vegan restaurant nearby. When looking for a place to stay near campus, Hotel Keen is a popular stop, as is the Garden Court Hotel. The campus itself is also picturesque and quite large, making for an enjoyable walk before game time. If you want to wander a bit, San Francisco isn’t far from Stanford’s campus, giving fans plenty to explore in one of the most beautiful cities in America. San Francisco is about a 45-minute drive north (sans traffic), and once you get there you can take a tour of Alcatraz or visit the Ghirardelli factory, meaning that one can never be bored in San Fran. Fans 4 The fans at Stanford are not like some of college football’s rowdy and rude bunches. Instead, loyal and high class is a better description – the crowd is loyal and loud, but never rude and crude. One fan, after learning I was from Florida while waiting in line for food, welcomed me and shook my hand while thanking me for coming all the way to take in a Stanford game; definitely a first for me at a sporting event. There is no question the fans here are diehard, as the tailgating scene at Stanford Stadium is top notch. Plenty of families come to games here, with several generations seen watching from the stands. These same families can also be seen in the various parking lots grilling out before the game, with some even bringing satellite dishes and televisions to watch other sports on TV both before and after the game is over. The student section, also known as the Red Zone, is nestled in the end zone near the southwest corner. Proudly displaying their “nerd nation” moniker on t-shirts while at the stadium, most students are kind, generous, and overall enjoyable to be around. Access 3 Stanford’s location is a bit away from the major highways, with the closest being the 101. Additionally, most of the roads around the stadium are one or two-lane thoroughfares that can become backed up quite easily on game day – the traffic is a bit of a nightmare if you aren’t used to California traffic. Parking on site at Stanford Stadium is widely available, with the closest lots used for those with special parking passes. General parking will run you about $20 per game, but the walk is not very long from there. Some lots are located on various athletic fields and parks immediately surrounding the stadium, but those who wish to save a little money can use the Caltrain. With stations just a 10 to 15-minute walk away from the facility, taking public transportation to a Stanford game can be a viable alternative for those who wish to avoid the potential gridlock around the venue. Getting around Stanford Stadium is easy as well, with several entrance tunnels and stairways to pick from to get you into the facility. And no matter where you are, there is always a stadium map nearby to help you find out where you are, and where you need to go. Return on Investment 4 Taking in a game at Stanford Stadium can require a hefty investment depending upon the game you wish to attend. As with most sports, rivalry games such as Oregon, Cal, or UCLA can mean high ticket prices, while in comparison tickets to a matchup with an early non-conference opponent bring more affordable prices. However, what would be a $40 ticket face value can be just $10 to $15 on secondary market sites . Getting something to eat is also more expensive than some places, but the quality of what you get is high to say the least. But if you plan ahead and are willing to invest a little money, going to a Stanford football game is definitely worth the trip. . Extras 5 There are plenty of things to see at Stanford Stadium that you won’t see at other stadiums. First and most entertaining is the mascot – yes, it looks like a tree with lipstick, but let’s be honest…it’s pretty darn awesome. Next is the band, which puts on a highly thought-out halftime show that tends to tackle current events; one game in 2015 featured a “Musical Debate Club” for the presidential debates. And for those fans who are students of the game, the stadium features a wall of fame for Stanford Cardinal players who have been named as All-Americans. There is also a great fan interaction aspect on social media, as the stadium’s big screens show fan posts from Instagram at various points in the game during commercial breaks and in-between quarters. Finally, the sheer beauty of the stadium and its surroundings is deserving of a nature magazine cover, with trees planted all over Stanford Stadium’s grounds. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for a high quality, high class, high excitement, and high value college football experience, look no further than Stanford Stadium. It will be hard to find a more beautiful and relaxing site for which to catch college football, and Stanford’s fans make the event even more enjoyable. The weather is great, the team provides high excitement, and the venue is a beautiful scene to behold.