Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Scottsdale Stadium 7408 E Osborn Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Map It Scottsdale Scorpions website Scottsdale Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 12,000 Fall Scorpions Scottsdale Stadium in Phoenix’s East Valley opened in 1992; the Arizona Fall League’s Scottsdale Scorpions (baseball) have occupied it every October and November (except 2020). Designed by HOK, the city built the current stadium on the same site as the old Scottsdale Stadium, which opened in 1956. The city of Scottsdale operates and maintains the facility. The city upgraded the seating area of the stadium over the past summer (2023), enhancing fan comfort and safety. The Arizona Fall League is a developmental instructional baseball league played in various spring training complexes in the Greater Phoenix area. The season lasts six weeks during October and November. Major league teams send some of their most highly touted prospects to play in the league for additional practice. The 2023 Scottsdale Scorpions host players from the Angels, Phillies, Giants, Cardinals, and Nationals. The Scorpions last won the Fall League championship in 2015. In addition to hosting the Scorpions, Scottsdale Stadium has hosted the Arizona Fall League Championship games in years past and will do so again in 2023. During the spring, the MLB San Francisco Giants call the stadium home for Cactus League play. Major League Baseball changed the starting times of the games this 2023 season. Unfortunately, fewer afternoon games are offered and those games start at 2:30pm (vs. 12:30pm in prior years). Evening games continue to start at 6:30pm. This start time change makes it difficult to travel to two stadiums to see a doubleheader (especially with rush hour traffic), which is disappointing. Food & Beverage 2 Several kiosks at the main concession stand are open for Fall League games and sell the standard ballpark fare. They offer hot dogs, bratwurst, and pizza ($7.49 - $7.99). Snacks include Bavarian pretzels, nachos, popcorn, Cracker Jacks, candy, and chips ($4.49 - $6.99). The concession area also includes a frozen yogurt stall. For drinks, Coca-Cola brand sodas ($5.99) and bottled water ($4.99) are available. A variety of canned beer is also available at the concession stand, both regular size and super-size ($9.99 - $13.99). Brands include Coors, Michelob, Lagunitas, Modelo, 805, and Truly. Wine and canned cocktails are also for sale. The selection is basic but enough for the crowd. I find the hot dog tastes better than the bratwurst, but neither are delicious. We recommend just getting a snack, if needed, and heading to one of the many restaurants in nearby downtown Scottsdale before or after the game. Atmosphere 3 The city has done some amazing upgrades to the stadium over the summer, making it look spiffy. Traditional green fold-down stadium seats are available on two levels with a walkway between the seating areas. The upgrades included replacing all seat backs and bottoms, and cup holders were added. Nice! The seats are still tight but are clean and shiny. Scottsdale Stadium New Seats and Railing, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Seats beyond the baselines do not face toward the infield (the stadium was built just a few years before that innovation was discovered). Rows have average legroom. The inner concourse floors were repainted making the stadium look fresh and spruced up. The old green rails and banisters were replaced with new aluminum ones. For the 2023 season, the stadium closed the top level of seating, so fans can only sit in the 100 level. The city is continuing its upgrades and is awaiting the arrival of more banisters and handrails to complete the 200 level upgrades. They hope to have this completed for the 2023 Championship game on Nov 11, 2023. Nets taper to the end of the dugout. Fans can watch net-free baseball when sitting further down the foul lines. For Fall League games, it is first come/first served general admission seating. The sun shines down the first and third baselines, with shade offered behind the home plate area and in the second level for day games (the second level is not available in 2023). Pick your preference and/or move around to different seating areas during the game. The scoreboard at Scottsdale Stadium shows the line score with the balls, strikes, and outs displayed vertically vs the traditional horizontal view. When the PA announces a home player’s at-bat or a pitching change, the scoreboard shows a photo of that player, his name, and his MLB team affiliation. This is not done for the visiting team. The scoreboard has an analog clock, not seen very often these days. The bullpens are in left and right field behind the outfield walls. Fortunately, printed starting lineups and rosters are available again (this was discontinued during COVID). Visitors can find these at the merchandise stand near the entrance. Lastly, the music volume is perfect. The PA staff only play it pre-game and between innings (not between at-bats or pitches). It’s like heaven being able to hear the sounds of the game, the crack of the bat, the snap of the ball in the glove, and to be able to talk baseball with your neighbor. Neighborhood 5 The ballpark is adjacent to a thriving downtown neighborhood. Within just blocks (walking distance – up to but no longer than a mile) are many areas to eat, drink, shop, and sleep. It is a very safe neighborhood in which to stroll and visit. Recommended places to eat in downtown Scottsdale are Karsen’s Grill (an exceptional small bar/eatery), Los Olivos Mexican Patio (Mexican and margaritas), and The Mission Old Town (modern Latin cuisine). Goldwater Brewery (an independent local brewery) is a half-mile walk from the stadium and sells a good variety of craft beers. Brat Haus is right next door to Goldwater Brewery and offers artisan sausages, Belgian fries, and 25 varieties of craft beer. There are many other restaurants and bars in the neighborhood; check here for a directory to find others that might suit your tastes. For places to spend the night, Old Town Scottsdale has many hotels, many within walking distance of Scottsdale Stadium. The Courtyard Scottsdale Old Town and the Holiday Inn Express are within a mile of the stadium. Prices during the Fall League are more affordable than during spring training. Besides strolling through the downtown area, other things to see and do within walking distance of the stadium are the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Other sports to visit when in town are the two other East Valley Fall League stadiums: Salt River Fields and Sloan Park. A little farther away, hockey fans can catch a Coyotes game, or basketball fans can watch a Suns’ game at Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix. Just five or so miles south of Scottsdale, fans can catch some ASU football, basketball, or soccer matches. Fans 3 Attendance is between 300 – 500 fans a game, with more fans attending on weekends and as the season progresses. As with most AFL games, fans consist of baseball scouts, retired folks, and true devotees of the game of baseball. You’ll see parents or grandparents of the players in the stands as well. It is quite easy to strike up a conversation, as most fans have baseball in common. Scorpion Fan Keeping Score, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Access 3 Scottsdale Stadium is located at the corner of Drinkwater Blvd and Osborn Rd in downtown Scottsdale. None of the major highways in Phoenix go near the stadium. Loop 101 (Pima Fwy) is easily the closest, a few miles to the east of Scottsdale Stadium. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the closest airport (only nine or ten miles from the stadium). Check Valley Metro for bus options to the stadium. Once at the stadium, the closest public parking area is the Civic Center Library Garage, located next to the ballpark on Drinkwater Blvd. It’s one block away beyond the third base side of the stadium. That garage is free and should not fill up for Scorpion games. The stadium and city do a poor job of identifying and providing handicapped parking. Only three wheelchair-designated parking spots are noticeably available at the parking area just in front of the stadium. The sign at that parking lot says the lot is reserved and not for public parking, which is unfortunate for those who really need to park close. Getting through security is painless. Fans walk through a scanner and give their bags and phone to a security person. Clean, serviceable bathrooms are open along the concourse near the tunnels. Stadium operations automated them (touchless) during the pandemic. Clear sport bags are allowed in the stadium. Return on Investment 4 Arizona Fall League games, especially in Scottsdale, are just about baseball, not all the other extra entertainment and commercialization happening during spring training games. Not a whole lot of music is played to ruin hearing the natural sounds of the game. Fans can talk baseball to just about anyone and strike up a friendship, if at least for a few innings. A game is affordable: $12 for adults, $10 for kids over 12 and seniors (55+), children under 12 get in free. Fans can sit anywhere they want. The AFL sells season ticket packages (single or double), worth the investment if you and/or a friend plan on attending more than 10 or 15 games. Parking is free; food is the traditional higher stadium-priced amounts. Extras 5 Several items are worth noting. Fans can watch net-free baseball at Scottsdale Stadium. The organization hires extremely friendly guest service entry personnel and staff. Scottsdale Stadium boasts the Arizona Fall League Sports Hall of Fame. Plaques are on the wall of the main concourse near the bathrooms on the first base side. A lot of great baseball history is on that wall. Stadium operations play minimal music during the game and none between pitches and at-bats, which is a pleasant relief for the baseball purists who attend games here. Visitors can have conversations without being drowned out by music. Finally, we give extra honors for the upgrades to the stadium seating area. It’s fresh and inviting. Final Thoughts For all the baseball purists, an Arizona Fall League game is just the ticket. Scottsdale Stadium provides lots of baseball and sports history. If in town in October or November, stop by and take in nine innings. For those who attend Scottsdale Stadium for SF Giants spring training games, be on the lookout for additional improvements down the first baseline. The upgrades include constructing a new patio with shade covering to provide a fantastic place for fans to hang out during games and to host events outside of baseball season. This area will be open in time for the 2024 spring training.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Harlen Hunter Stadium 209 South Kingshighway St. Charles, MO 63301 Lindenwood Lions website Harlen Hunter Stadium website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 6,000 The Mane Attraction Lindenwood University is a private university located in St. Charles, Missouri. It is the second oldest higher education institution west of the Missouri River, as it was founded in 1827. The university has an enrollment of 6,900 and offers degree programs in more than 80 areas of study. Lindenwood’s athletic teams are known as the Lions. The school has steadily progressed through various competition levels to Division I status in 2022. They began at the NAIA level (1999-2011), moved up to Division II level (2012-2021), then up to Division I status in 2022. The teams are not eligible for NCAA Championship tournaments until 2025. Lion athletic teams compete in the Ohio Valley Conference, which includes teams including the University of Missouri-Little Rock, Eastern Illinois, Morehead State, Southeastern Missouri, Southern Illinois, Tennessee State and Tennessee-Martin. The Lions football program is relatively young, as it first fielded a team in 1990.It was very successful at the NAIA level, making the playoffs four times (2004, 2008, 2009 and 2010). Lindenwood played in the 2009 NAIA National Championship game, which it lost. The home of Lindenwood Lions football is the on-campus Harlen Hunter Stadium. It opened in 1975 as the preseason training facility for the St. Louis Cardinals of the NFL, and has a capacity of 6,000 seats, including three sections of club seats. It is named for Dr Harlen C. Hunter, a prominent physician, and the founder of the St. Louis Orthopedic Medicine Clinic. The facility stays busy throughout the year, as it hosts football, men’s and women’s soccer, field hockey, men’s and women’s lacrosse and rugby. Food & Beverage 4 Hunter Stadium has one main concession stand, with 5 single item stands located along the concourse areas of the stadium. These stands include Chick-fil-A, Pepsi, Kona Ice and Shamrock Brewing Company. The main stand offers pretzel bites ($3), popcorn ($2), nachos ($3), hot dogs ($3), grilled brats ($4), Italian beef sandwiches ($5), potato chips ($2) and frozen custard ($3). Drinks offered at the central concession stand include Pepsi brand sodas ($3), Gatorade ($3), bottled water ($3), coffee ($3), and hot chocolate ($3). Beer is available at the Shamrock Brewing stand only. The number of concessions stands at Harlen Stadium has been increased in anticipation of larger crowds at the FCS level of NCAA football. Atmosphere 4 Harlen Hunter Stadium offers a very enjoyable experience in which to watch football. The seats are predominately bleacher seating and are close to the action on three sides of the field. The stadium offers a striking graphics package, with a huge lion logo at the 50-yard line and a gold and black color scheme in the two end zones. A large videoboard is located behind the south end zone, while a more basic scoreboard that provides the time left, the score and the location of the line of scrimmage is hung above the student section in the north end zone. Due to multiple sports being played in the stadium, the field features an artificial turf surface, which prevents the game from becoming a mud bath. The field also features a state-of-the-art lighting system, as well as a two-level press box. Neighborhood 4 Lindenwood University is in St. Charles, MO, a town of 65,000 located on the west bank of the Missouri River. It is located 24 miles west of St. Louis via I-70. St. Charles was one of the first settlements west of the Missouri River, as it was settled in 1769. It served as the starting point for the Lewis and Clark expeditions and was the home of Daniel Boone before he moved to Kentucky. As you can imagine, St. Charles has a large and active historic district, with many attractions. Among the sites you will want to visit while you are in town are the Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Museum and the Frenchtown District. The Schlafly Bankside Brewpub is in the Historic District as well. It is designed to look like a pub of the 1700’s vintage. While in town, you’ll want to visit the many shops and restaurants in the Historic District. Both the Fairfield Inn and the Comfort Inn offer reasonable rates are close to both the Lindenwood campus and the St. Charles Historic District. Fans 5 Lindenwood parents and students are thrilled to be playing at the Division I level. They are very welcoming to visitors, as the school has a strict code of conduct. They will be happy to answer any questions you might have once you arrive at the campus. Fans arrive early for games, as tailgating begins three hours before kickoff. A Lion Pride Tailgate offers Lion fans an opportunity to meet, eat and drink before the games. The tailgate is held in front of the Fieldhouse. There are several vendor tents, including Royal Liquors, Bougie Bites, Luxury Bash Services, the St. Louis Ambush, and Pepsi. Shortly before the gates open, the tailgating crowd is fired up by appearances by the Lions Cheerleaders, the Lion mascot Leo, and a performance by the Lion Pride Marching Band. Once the games get underway, the Lions fans show that even if they are new to Division I, they’re not newbies when showing their support for the team. The parents and the alums are very vocal, as are the students at the school. The student section (known as the Uproar section) is set behind one of the end zones and is sponsored by the Raising Cane restaurant. We think this name is very appropriate in describing what the students do throughout the game. Access 4 Getting to and from a Lindenwood football game is quite easy. The school is easily accessed from either I-70 or I-64, the two major interstates in the area. From I-70 (St. Louis area): Take I-70 W across the Blanchette Bridge over the Missouri River. Take exit #228 and turn right onto First Capitol Drive. Go ¾ mile to the intersection with Kingshighway. Turn left onto Kingshighway and enter the Lindenwood campus. Volunteers will direct you to the appropriate parking lot. From I-64 (Chesterfield, MO area): From Chesterfield take I-64 and travel west across the Daniel Boone Bridge over the Missouri River. Take exit #10 and turn right on Highway 94. Head north and cross over I-70. Highway 94 becomes First Capitol Drive. Proceed to the intersection with Kingshighway and turn left. This will bring you into the Lindenwood campus. Volunteers will direct you to the appropriate parking lot. Gates open 60 minutes before kickoff, leaving you plenty of time to get to your seats. Return on Investment 5 Going to a game at Harlen Hunter Stadium will not break your budget. All single game tickets are considered general admission seats. The tickets cost $15 a game. There are three sections (104,105 and 106) that feature chairbacks and are considered season ticket holder/ box seats. The general admission seats are bench seating. The concession stand prices are very reasonable. There is no charge for parking on the Lindenwood campus on gamedays. Extras 4 In addition to Lindenwood University athletic events, Hunter Stadium has hosted the Women’s NAIA National Championship Game in soccer in 2001 and 2002 and hosted the National Championship Game for Women’s Lacrosse as well. The venue was also the site of a soccer friendly between St. Louis FC and the Chicago Fire of the MLS. A student -athletic center was recently added to the area behind the south end zone. This facility provides locker rooms, training areas and meeting space for all the sports teams at Lindenwood. Five players from Lindenwood have gone on to play in the NFL. Lindenwood will soon begin a tradition of rivalry games, as they will be playing two opponents (Eastern Illinois and Southern Illinois) from the nearby state of Illinois, as well as an in-state rival in the form of Southeast Missouri State University. Final Thoughts Division I football has returned to the St. Louis metropolitan area for the first time since 1949 in the form of the Lindenwood Lions. The school is thrilled to be in Division I, and they look forward to creating an uproar in the Ohio Valley Conference. Harlen Hunter Stadium is a wonderful place to watch the Lions games.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Jenny Craig Pavilion 5998 Alcala Park San Diego, CA 92110 San Diego Toreros website Jenny Craig Pavilion website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 5,100 Indoor Beach Volleyball Jenny Craig Pavilion at the University of San Diego is home to the university’s volleyball and basketball teams. USD is located near Mission Bay in northern San Diego, not far from the Pacific Ocean. The venue opened in 2000 and seats 5,100 fans – it is also used for campus events and concerts. The facility is occasionally referred to as the Slim Gym in deference to its namesake. Food & Beverage 3 Jenny Craig Pavilion has a concession stand in the lobby just outside the entrance to the court, which offers the standards you might expect at a sporting event – hot dogs (including vegan ones), pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, chips, candy, ice cream, and churros. These items range from $4 for the smaller items to $10 for the vegan dog. The stand also offers bottled water, soda, coffee, tea, hot cocoa, beer, wine, and seltzer – alcohol starts at $8, but the non-alcoholic drinks are $4 to $5. Atmosphere 2 For women’s volleyball there is not a lot going on besides the volleyball game itself – the PA announcer does a great job, and puts a lot of passion into his calls, and there are also some banners on the walls showcasing the Toreros basketball and volleyball achievements, but there is no mascot present and no fan contests, etc. during breaks in the action. Neighborhood 4 Jenny Craig Pavilion and the university are located in a mostly residential area, with only a few gas stations and local restaurants within walking distance along Linda Vista Road. The school’s football stadium is right next to the pavilion – in fact they share a courtyard. One great Mexican restaurant nearby is Taco Bomb, just up the street from the university; Taco Bomb is very authentic and definitely worth stopping by if you have a chance. There is an aquarium on UDS’s campus, which is also worth a visit, but the big attraction in the area is Mission Bay and all its beach and water-themed attractions, including SeaWorld San Diego, and there are about a million hotels along I-8 to accommodate all the visitors to this area. There are also plenty of other restaurants and attractions closer to San Diego proper if you want to drive 15-20 minutes south (longer with traffic). Fans 1 Very few fans show up for San Diego Toreros volleyball games, so the facility seems pretty empty, and there doesn’t seem to be a lot of cheering from the fans – the players cheer a lot among themselves, and do a lot of whooping and hollering, which you can easily hear even if you are in the back row, but there isn’t much passion from the crowd. Access 4 Traffic is not as bad as it seems like it should be, given the proximity to SeaWorld, but this may depend on what day of the week the volleyball games are scheduled. There is free parking down the hill from the pavilion on weekends, but for weekday games you will have to pay. There are bathrooms down the hall from the entrance to the court (inside the same building). Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Toreros volleyball games are $10 plus tax. The free parking helps if you can get it, and concessions prices seem reasonable especially given this venue is in pricey San Diego/California. That said, unless your team is playing the Toreros, or you happen to be a big-time volleyball or USD fan, a match at Jenny Craig Pavilion may not offer enough excitement for some attendees. Extras 2 There is a team gear stand in the lobby outside the entrance to the court, which sells items for multiple USD sports. You can also sit as close or as far from the court as you choose.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Toppa Field at Freebody Park Freebody St. Newport, RI 02840 Salve Regina Seahawks football website Toppa Field website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity: 2,000 Football by the Sea Toppa Field, a WPA project, is located within Freebody Park, a multi-use facility with multiple athletic fields and a playground. It was the original site of the Newport Folk Festival. Today, Salve Regina University uses the facility as home for their football, lacrosse, soccer and softball teams. The field is named for John Toppa, who coached in Newport at Rogers High School for 32 years, winning 11 state championships. Toppa also taught at the school and served as its athletic director for 25 years. Salve Regina University is a private Roman Catholic university located in Newport, RI. In Latin, Salve Regina translates to “Hail Queen,” which makes sense as the school began as a women’s college. Founded in 1934, the school is now coeducational, with an enrollment of 2,800 students enrolled in 40 majors. The school is best known for its nursing programs. Nestled amongst Newport’s famous Gilded Age mansions, it has been ranked among the nation’s most beautiful colleges by both Architectural Digest and Conde Nast Traveler. Salve Regina University fielded their first varsity football program in 1993. The Seahawks now play in the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC), a Division Three conference with schools located in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Salve Regina has played in nine postseason games in its history but has yet to participate in the D-3 national tournament. Food & Beverage 4 There are no permanent concessions facilities at Toppa Field, so food trucks fill the void during Seahawk football games. Local favorite Little Fish provided the food during Stadium Journey’s visit, with a selection of fish, chicken and lobster tacos along with caviche, lobster covered nachos and lobster rolls. It’s not your typical football game fare, but totally appropriate in the seaside city of Newport. Little Fish food truck also sells Coca-Cola products and Liquid Death beers from local favorite Revival Brewing. Fans can also pick up a frozen lemonade from Rhode Island legend Del’s Lemonade. Fans looking for snacks will find a table operated by the Salve cheerleading squad which offers up cold drinks and candy. Atmosphere 2 A Seahawk football game features a pretty basic game day presentation. Fans who haven’t visited Toppa Field in a while will be surprised by the improvements in recent years. The newest addition to the facility is the brand-new scoreboard situated on the north side of the field, behind the visitors’ sideline. This basic scoreboard is so new that the crew hasn’t totally figured out how to use all its features yet. Longtime fans say it’s great to now know how much time is left in the game. Digital programs are available for all fans, and there is a playground near the park’s entrance where younger fans can let out some energy during the game. The Seahawk cheer squad provides some noise during the game while the PA announcer goes about his work in an unobtrusive manner. The sound system is not overwhelmingly loud, but the sound is of good quality. If you choose a seat near the top of the grandstand, the coaches will be sitting right behind you, barking out instructions to their sidelines via headsets. Neighborhood 5 Without a doubt, the biggest strength of Toppa Field is its location. Nestled in between Newport’s Gilded Age mansions and bustling Belleview Avenue, there is plenty to do and see before and after a Seahawks football game. Easton Beach and the famous Cliff Walk are less than a half mile from Toppa Field. A local’s tip: get to the area early and walk the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that runs behind many of Newport’s famous mansions atop a 70-foot shoreline cliff. Just to the west of Freebody Park is the Newport Casino, home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. After the game, head a half mile in the other direction to America’s Cup Avenue, where the Brick Marketplace contains numerous fine restaurants, pubs and shops. The area will be much less crowded during the fall months, but most of the businesses will still be open. Also located here is Cardines Field, one of the oldest ballparks still in use in the country. Other attractions in Newport include Fort Adams State Park, Touro Synagogue (the oldest synagogue in the country) and the Newport Art Museum. Fans visiting the area will have no shortage of choices for dining, shopping or lodging. More complete information can be found at DiscoverNewport.org. Fans 3 Salve Regina draws good crowds to Toppa Field. The Seahawks are the only college team on Aquidneck Island, so many locals turn out to see some football on fall weekends. Many of the fans in the stands enjoy relationships with the players on the field, so they are knowledgeable about the game and enthusiastic in their support. While there’s not an overwhelming presence from the student body, they do turn out in solid numbers to cheer on their classmates. Given the small size of Salve, they’d barely fill Toppa Field if everyone showed up, anyway. With the compact geographic footprint of the NEWMAC conference, there is usually a good turnout from visiting fans as well. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend a gorgeous fall Saturday in Newport? Access 2 Newport is a city of about 25,000 residents located at the southern tip of Aquidneck Island. Best known as a popular summer destination, this seaside town is famous for its Gilded Age mansions and sailing history. Located 33 miles south of Providence and 74 miles south of Boston, it is not easily accessed by any highways. The closest interstate to Newport is I-195, which runs from Providence to Cape Cod about 20 miles north of Newport. Route 24 runs from Fall River down through the upper half of Aquidneck Island. Once the highway ends visitors will navigate Route 114 into the city. Freebody Park is located in the northern section of Newport, just behind the Newport Casino and near the city’s famous Gilded Age mansions and beaches. This area is full of historic sites and a popular summer destination. While it may be a bit less crowded on fall football Saturdays, it’s still not the easiest area to navigate. Parking is available on the neighborhood streets, but it can be difficult to find spots really close to the park. Be prepared to walk a few blocks and be sure to pay attention to signs. Many streets are closed to parking at certain times. There is some public parking available near the Cliff Walk about a half mile away. Seating at Toppa Field consists of a single concrete grandstand on the southern edge of the facility. Seasoned fans will bring cushions to sit on during Seahawk games. There are a pair of small bathrooms underneath the grandstand, which are augmented with several port-a-johns scattered throughout the park. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to a Seahawks game are sold as general admission for ten dollars. On-street parking in the Freebody Park area is free. Some of the concession items are a bit on the pricey side, although not out of line for the type of food offered (lobster rolls aren’t cheap, after all). Overall, a Salve Regina football game is an affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. Extras 1 The Salve Regina football game day presentation is a pretty basic one, with not much going on at Toppa Field that can be considered extra. We’ll award an extra point for the improvements that the university has put into the facility to improve the overall experience. The new turf and the new scoreboard are just two examples of such improvements to this classic stadium. Final Thoughts Toppa Field is a busy community recreation facility that just oozes history and provides a simple, but enjoyable game day experience. Located on one of the most beautiful campuses in the country, a visit to a football game at Salve Regina will be just a small part of an incredible stadium journey. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 DeVore Stadium 900 Otay Lakes Rd Chula Vista, CA 91910 Southwestern College Jaguars website DeVore Stadium website Capacity: 7,200 Under the Mountains DeVore Stadium is home to the Southwestern College Jaguars, who play college football as part of the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA). Though technically a community college, the school generally refers to itself simply as Southwestern College, or SWC for short. DeVore Stadium is named after a former president and superintendent of the college. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food and beverages offered at DeVore Stadium, although there are concessions stands which were used at one time. However, fans are welcome to bring food and beverages into the stadium – I saw everything from Taco Bell takeout to foil-covered aluminum pans filled with home cooking. Atmosphere 2 Though there have been some recent, upscale upgrades here, including the athletics building behind one end zone and a modern press box, the Jaguars don’t have a lot here besides the game itself. They do have a cheerleading squad entertaining fans from the home side of the field, and the setting is also very pleasant, with great views of San Miguel Mountain in the distance. The seating here consists entirely of stone steps on both sides, not unlike Harvard Stadium and much of Rice Stadium – there are no bleacher benches nor chairbacks, but the steps are actually surprisingly comfortable (albeit a little cold on your derriere, especially during night games). Neighborhood 3 Chula Vista, CA is located about 15 to 30 minutes south of San Diego depending on traffic. There are a couple of fast food restaurants right outside the stadium – in fact you can see them from the stands, such as Carl’s Jr. and Subway. Chula Vista is named for its location between San Diego Bay and the coastal mountain foothills nearby. Major attractions in town include Sesame Place San Diego (a theme and water park for children) and Living Coast Discovery Center (a nature center), and Chula Vista is also home to one of the US’ year-round Olympic training facilities. The city also boasts several golf courses. Fans 1 Few fans show up for Southwestern Jaguars football games, and many of them are actually visiting fans. There is some Southwestern team gear being worn, but most of the home fans seem to be either friends or family members of the players themselves. Access 4 Getting to DeVore Stadium is pretty easy, as major roads take you down from San Diego, and there is very little traffic in the vicinity, due to the very small attendance. Moving around the stadium is similarly easy – you are free to walk all the way around the stadium and sit (or stand) wherever you want. Return on Investment 2 Tickets to Jags football are only $10, and parking is free. If you decide to bring your own food that is a help, but if you didn’t plan for this you may be disappointed by the lack of concessions. Extras 1 There is no mascot and no band that I saw, but there is a cool looking Jaguars logo at midfield, and some bright red Jags signage dotted around.

The Australian Baseball League has announced the 2023/24 season will see a return to a six- team league with 2018 expansion teams Auckland Tuatara and Geelong-Korea to cease operations. Auckland in particular had a strained relationship with the ABL over the past few years, however a myriad of lockdowns and border entry conditions heavily impacted both teams. Neither participated in the shortened 2020/21 season, and with the threat of further Covid restrictions, the ABL ultimately suspended the 2021/22 season. The 2022/23 season saw the Adelaide Giants win their first Championship in the ABL era, defeating perennial contenders Perth Heat 2-1 in the best-of-three series. However, the league struggled to get fans back to the ballpark. With the exception of Melbourne Aces, all teams experienced lower than usual attendance, particularly the beleaguered Sydney Blue Sox who struggled on and off the diamond under their new owners. Their tumultuous seasons has ultimately led to another change in ownership. Fans are cautiously optimistic that a return to baseball-centric owners will result in an improved fan experience for 2023/24. With the withdrawal of the Tuatara and Geelong-Korea, the league has discarded the short- lived conference system. All teams will play each other home and away in a 40-game season. Opening Day is set for November 17, with the regular season concluding on January 21. The top 4 teams will qualify for the post-season which starts on January 26. The top ranked team will host the fourth ranked team in a best-of-three, with the second ranked team hosting the third ranked team. The winner of each of these series will then vie for the Claxton Shield, scheduled for the weekend of February 2-4. 2023/24 Opening Round Brisbane @ Adelaide Perth @ Melbourne Canberra @ Sydney

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Gerald J. Ford Stadium 5800 Ownby Dr University Park, TX 75205 SMU Mustangs website Gerald J. Ford Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 32,000 SMU Mustangs – Gerald J. Ford Stadium Located in the upscale section of Dallas known as University Park sits Southern Methodist University, aka SMU. Legend has it that the first brick laid for the campus back in 1941 is at the highest point in the city of Dallas. That point became Dallas Hall, known as the Hilltop, and is the focal point of the academic center of campus. In addition to being one of the nation’s top research facilities, they play a little ball at SMU as well. The SMU Mustangs first took to the gridiron in 1915. They would join the now defunct Southwest Conference in 1918, and it would be as a member of that conference that the program would experience its highest of highs and lowest of lows. Fielding such legendary players as Don Meredith, Eric Dickerson, Doak Walker, Forrest Gregg, and Raymond Berry, the Mustangs would go on to claim National Championships in 1935, 1981, and 1982. A cursory Google search – or the 30 for 30 documentary – will explain the previously inferred lows. However, with a forthcoming move to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2024, SMU looks to be on the verge of another period of excellence. For much of their football history the Mustangs called Ownby Stadium their home. A campaign led by the eponymous Gerald J. Ford (no relation to our nation’s 38th President), a Texas banker and SMU alum, helped build their new stadium on top of the remains of their former home in 2000. Currently in the midst of a stadium expansion which will close in the current horseshoe and add in new boxes, the stadium, like the rest of the SMU campus, is still gorgeous. Read on to learn what makes is so special. Food & Beverage 4 The food and beverage scene at Gerald J. Ford Stadium is pretty great, to be honest. There are numerous food trucks parked outside the stadium (inside the security screening), and you can take what you buy inside the stadium. They also have numerous kiosks and stands throughout the stadium’s main concourse. Many offer up your traditional gameday fare, like hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, pretzels, soda, and beer. The vast majority of these are self-serve, which really helps speed up the process and keeps fans from missing too much of the action. If you’re looking to expand beyond the norm, the stadium has quite a few local vendors who’ve set up shop with their wares. For example, Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q offers up chopped and sliced brisket sandwiches, HTeaO has several blends of their signature iced teas, and Ruthie’s For Good has several of their signature sandwiches available. The costs, I found, are a little lower than at most other big-time college stadiums, so that is a welcome change. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at SMU is truly something special. I cannot say enough about how beautiful the campus is. While it is set literally in the middle of arguably the busiest city in the state, the campus could not be more bucolic. Once you enter University Park, you feel like you’re transported to a small-college town. The white-brick buildings and impossibly green lawns just add to what you’re experiencing. Gerald J. Ford Stadium’s main entrance is protected by Doak Walker Plaza, complete with a larger-than-life statue of the 1948 Heisman Trophy winner. Inside the stadium you’ll find a team merchandise stand where fans can purchase their Mustang gear. Beyond that things are a little vanilla – the main draw, again, is the campus itself. The construction being done on the stadium does hamper things a bit, as it can’t help but be distracting. However, by the time it’s done before next season, it will probably be spectacular. Neighborhood 5 The Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex is one of the largest and busiest areas in the country. Almost anything a person could want to see and do can pretty much be found in Big D. For sports fans it doesn’t get much better, as all five of the major sports can be found within driving distance of SMU, with the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars both being housed in the city’s downtown. As both the NBA and NHL seasons overlap with the college football one, fans have a unique chance to double-dip on games if they want. Also, for fans looking for something else to do and see either before or after a game at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, the legendary State Fair of Texas also runs during the college football season. Famed for its smorgasbord of deep-fried delights, the State Fair should be experienced at least once in everyone’s lifetime. For history buffs, another attraction you might want to visit is the George W. Bush Presidential Library. A museum dedicated to our nation’s 43rd President, it features exhibits on the life of President Bush, his family, and his political career. It is also literally on the campus of SMU, so if you have time, it’s easy to visit. In terms of dining and lodging, even though the stadium is in the heart of the SMU campus, there are still plenty of options nearby. One such example is Bubba's Cooks Country, which bills itself as country cookin’ for city folks. Despite that their menu has a lot to offer, including house-made fried catfish, meatloaf, and fried chicken. Another option within walking distance of the stadium is Red Stix Street Food; specializing in Asian street fare, Red Stix serves up dishes like shaken beef, orange chicken, and dynamite shrimp. For lodging, those who don’t want to use a vacation rental type property can find options near the SMU campus. The closest options are The Lumen and The Beeman Hotel – both are boutique hotels within walking distance of the stadium. However, you’re bound to find something that will fit your budget; one caveat is to book as far in advance as possible, especially during the State Fair, as those rooms fill up fast and rates rapidly increase. Fans 3 There was a really good crowd at the last SMU game I attended. The Mustangs averaged just under 25,000 fans per game in the 2022 season, and announced a significant bump in season ticket sales for the 2023 season, thanks in part to the forthcoming move to the ACC. I think that number was pretty close to what I witnessed during my last visit. SMU also boasts a really unique tailgating scene, as there aren’t the parking lots (they have garages at SMU; more on that shortly) that most schools boast. So, much like the famed Grove at Ole Miss, SMU has The Boulevard. There is a lot of civilized pre-game revelry being done under the tents on this historic part of the campus. The one thing that keeps this score from being higher is that, despite the good-sized crowd, the fans still seemed very reserved. There are far more SMU polos and various blue shades of sun dresses in the crowd than there are jerseys and face paint. I think this fits in with the setting, but it does undercut what you’d expect at a typical football game (college or high school) in most places in Texas. Access 4 Gerald J. Ford Stadium, as mentioned, is located in the heart of SMU’s campus. This is conveniently located adjacent to Interstate 75. The exit for the campus, the stadium, and University Park are clearly marked, which will make navigating Big D fairly simple. The stadium and campus are both close to the Metroplex’s two major airports, as they are 25 minutes from DFW International Airport and 19 minutes from Love Field, respectively. While not as notorious as the traffic in Houston, Dallas is no slouch in this area. For those not wanting to brave the highways and byways, the Dallas Area Rapid Transport (DART) is a pretty good option. There are multiple stops on the SMU campus for passengers. Once in the area you can choose to park on any of the side streets on campus that aren’t marked, or you can pony up (pun intended) the $20 to park in the lots or parking garages. Exiting the campus and games can get a little bottlenecky, but it really isn’t that bad. Return on Investment 5 Single-game tickets for Mustangs games at Gerald J. Ford Stadium start at $20 each. This is an incredible bargain both for a team with the history of SMU, and also one that plays at a very high level, and are about to play at an even higher one. With the relatively low costs for parking and concessions – and in a setting as unique as SMU – you’re getting a real deal when you attend games at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Extras 4 The Mustangs pull out most of the traditional game day Extras that a lot of big-time colleges have. They have the cheer squad on the sidelines firing up the crowd as well as the SMU Pom Squad, described as an elite show team, performing routines during halftime. The SMU Mustang Band, aka the “Best-Dressed Band in the Land,” performs throughout the game and also at halftime. SMU also boasts not only a costumed mascot, named Peruna, but also a live Shetland pony mascot, the original Peruna, now Peruna IX. I have to admit to experiencing a considerable amount of joy whenever I see a live mascot at football games. Plus, there is a sense that anything can happen whenever Peruna drags his handlers across the field after a Mustang score. If you’re up for it, search for Peruna on YouTube and see some of that unexpected happen. Final Thoughts I will freely admit that I have had SMU on my bucket list for quite a while. I’m a fan of the old Southwest Conference and there is still a mystique tied to those teams for me. While that definitely added to my personal enjoyment of my experience at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, I feel like anyone who attends will enjoy themselves equally as much. With that said, college football fans, plan your trip to Dallas when you can. It looks like things are only going to get better from here. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium 3400 N Wesleyan Blvd Rocky Mount, NC 27804 North Carolina Wesleyan Battling Bishops website Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 1,000 Building for the Bishops Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium is home to the Battling Bishops of North Carolina Wesleyan University. With the first phase completed in 2022, the brand new and expanding facility began with a state-of-the-art turf field that can accommodate football, soccer, and lacrosse. Stadium lights were also added so that the teams could practice and play at night. Named after the biggest athletic donor in Wesleyan history, the facility currently seats about a thousand fans, with additional improvements planned for the future, including an athletic building and press box. NC Wesleyan previously played its football games at Rocky Mount Memorial Stadium but is thrilled to now have an on-campus facility, making it easier for fans to attend Bishops games. Food & Beverage 2 Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium offers a few concessions for fans from a stand at the main entrance – not a huge selection yet, but enough to get you through the game, including Chick-fil-A sandwiches, pizza, popcorn, candy, and chips, plus soda, bottled water, Gatorade, and a few other drinks. The Chick-fil-A sandwiches are by far the most expensive item on the menu at $7, but everything else is $1 to $3. Atmosphere 2 North Carolina Wesleyan’s football field doesn’t offer much yet, but the turf field has vibrant pops of color, and there is a tunnel for the players to come through as they enter the field. There is also a fence around the field that gives a rather stately feel to the setting. There are cheerleaders on hand to keep the crowd engaged, and there is also a team gear stand near the main entrance for fans to grab their Bishop's swag. Neighborhood 3 Rocky Mount is a small town in North Carolina about an hour east of Raleigh, with a population of around 55,000. There are a few restaurants to the south of the facility along Highway 301, including a few well-known chains such as Applebee’s and Chili’s, as well as a few more upscale choices such as Tap@1918. There are plenty of hotels in the same area as the restaurants, and if you are looking for something to do in the area, there are a couple of local parks you can visit. If you plan to be in town for the weekend, downtown Raleigh features a ton of museums, including the Marbles Kids Museum for the little ones. There are also numerous local breweries located in the Raleigh-Durham area. If you come to a game in August or early September, you may be able to catch a Carolina Mudcats baseball game during your visit, which is the closest professional team to North Carolina Wesleyan University. Fans 2 Bishops football games don’t boast a ton of fans just yet, but attendance should increase as the facility continues to be built out. You will see the stands about one-third to half full, and most of them are rooting for the Bishops, which is nice to see – at many smaller college stadiums there will be more visiting fans at some games than home fans. It is also nice that most of the fans are wearing Bishops gear. Behind the south end zone, there are a few tents set up, where the boosters and donors usually have a cookout going on during the game. This area is off-limits to general admission fans, but is a great spot to watch the game from if you would like to support the Bishops; NC Wesleyan is currently looking for additional donations to continue the planned upgrades to the venue. Access 4 Getting to Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium is pretty simple, especially as the field is right next to the highway, across the street from a Sheetz gas station – most fans will enter from the west side, where there is parking for $10. Currently, there is only one entrance, located not far from the parking lot, with the team gear tent and concessions next to the ticket table. At present there is only one grandstand, also on the west side, with a small temporary press box on the east side. A few fans do stand along the fence on the west side to watch the game as well. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to NC Wesleyan football games are only $5, and programs are only $1. This is a great value for college football at any level, and well worth it if you want to spend a pleasant day watching gridiron action. Parking is reasonable at $10, and concessions are inexpensive as well. Extras 1 There is no mascot here yet, and no band either, but there should be more amenities added as the stadium gets built.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Trinity University Multi-Sport Stadium 637 Kings Court San Antonio, TX 78212 Trinity Tigers website Trinity Health Stadium website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 4,000 Trinity Tigers – Trinity University Multi-Sport Stadium Founded in 1869 in San Antonio, TX, Trinity University is a small liberal arts college that boasts a remarkably robust athletics program, especially on the gridiron. The Trinity Tigers first fielded a team in 1900, and moved into their new on-campus home, the Trinity University Multi-Sport Stadium, in 1972. Starting in the 1990s, the Tigers went on a run of unprecedented success, winning 13 straight conference championships from 1993 through 2005, and then four more in 2007, 2011, 2019, and 2021. In 2007 the Tigers participated in one of the most memorable plays in college football history against Millsaps College. It would be featured on countless SportsCenter clip shows and be named the top sports moment of the year by Time magazine. In 2018, Trinity began renovations on their home stadium – this included installing a new 28x48 foot video screen, renovating the home side stands, and a new field turf playing surface. Everything was completed by 2021, and it has proven a hit with the fans. Read on to learn more about the history and traditions of Trinity University. Food & Beverage 2 The concessions at Trinity Multi-Sport Stadium are limited to stands behind the home side. The Tiger Bites stand offers up a lot of traditional game day fare with a few interesting wrinkles – you can get hot dogs (plain or with chili and cheese), nachos (also offered up with chili, or chopped brisket), chopped brisket sandwiches, popcorn, chips, and assorted candies. In terms of beverages, there are bottled water, sports drinks, and soda options. No alcohol is allowed on campus at Trinity, and thus there is none sold or allowed during Tigers games, so bear that in mind when attending. Atmosphere 3 I was pleasantly surprised with the atmosphere at Trinity Stadium. While it is smaller than many high school stadiums in Texas, it is not without its appeal. Set amid the beautiful red-brick buildings of the Trinity University campus, the stadium stands out among the other sports facilities on-site. Revelers park in lawn chairs and under tents among the shade trees that grow out in front of the stadium; this seems to be Trinity’s version of tailgating. There is also a tent near the front entrance that sells Trinity merchandise. While it isn’t very big, it has pretty much everything fans could want for the game. The still relatively new video board is quite impressive and puts the stadium on another level compared to other Division III teams. It is a sight to see and takes the stadium up a notch from being just charming to a place football fans will want to visit. My one piece of advice would be to take in a game later in the season; this is mainly due to the weather. The early part of the season takes place in what are still some of the hottest days of the year on the South Texas calendar. If you come during the end of August or any time in September, more than likely it will be for a day game and it will be HOT. Neighborhood 5 Trinity University is located in one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in San Antonio, Monte Vista. Among the old homes and rolling hills, the setting is akin to those found in many small college towns. The campus and the stadium are also a short drive from San Antonio’s vibrant downtown – this area puts you at the literal and metaphorical center of the city, home to the Alamo, HemisFair Park, the River Walk, the Tower of the Americas, and so much more. Some of the city’s finest hotels and most celebrated restaurants are located here. Hotels and restaurants of all budgets can be found; the only limit is your budget. Simply put, this area is where you want to go when you visit the Alamo City. Trinity Multi-Sport Stadium is also located near the Alamodome, home of the UTSA Roadrunners, and Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium, home of the UIW Cardinals. Since all their seasons overlap, there is a good chance you can double up on games when you see the Trinity Tigers. Fans 3 This is purely anecdotal, but the crowd I experienced last time I was there was good. The home side stands are filled with the Tiger faithful; they come dressed in Trinity gear and are loud the entire game. The best part, which leans into the small-school atmosphere, is that every time the Tigers score a touchdown, the fans fire off confetti poppers. This was pretty fun for me but is fun for the younger fans in the crowd. Access 3 Located five minutes from downtown San Antonio and right off Interstate 37, Trinity University Multi-Sport Stadium is easy to find amidst the gorgeous buildings of the campus. It is a short nine-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport. Once on campus, parking is free in unmarked spots and the parking garage near the stadium. If you choose not to drive or use a rideshare service, San Antonio’s public transportation system, VIA Metropolitan Transit, offers bus rides to the campus from places all across the city. Return on Investment 4 This section is where the Trinity Tigers will give you your bang for your buck. Not only is parking free on Trinity’s campus but there is no cost for admission as well. So, for a team that has traditionally been one of the best in all of Division III football, you’re getting an incredible bargain. The savings are passed on again at the concession stands, as the cost for the items is more akin to what you would find at a high school stadium rather than a college one. Whether you’re going to the game solo or as a family, your wallet will thank you in the end. Extras 2 Like most of the college football world, the Trinity Tigers rely on some of the same tropes, traditions, and fanfare for their games. However, unlike in years past when I have gone to games, the latest version of the Tigers appears to be taking the field without a mascot or band. They do have cheerleaders patrolling the sidelines, and the Trinity Prowlers Dance Team entertains the crowd during halftimes. Other than that, there is not much else in the way of extras for fans. Final Thoughts I have always enjoyed my visits to Trinity. They are the oldest collegiate football team in San Antonio and they have a great tradition of winning – that culture permeates everything the Tigers do. Until now I hadn’t been back to Trinity Multi-Sport Stadium since the renovations, and I can tell the difference. While I wouldn’t mark this down as a bucket list stop, I think if you’re in town during the season, for the price you pay you’d be hard-pressed to find a better time than taking in a Trinity Tigers game. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium 1 Avenue of Champions Clemson, SC 29634 Clemson Tigers website Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1942 Capacity: 83,350 Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium – Clemson Tigers In what otherwise would be a sleepy college town of just over 17,000 sits the 83,350-seat Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium, ominously dubbed “Death Valley”. Originally founded as a military and agricultural school in 1889, Clemson began playing football in 1902. The Tigers were successful in their early years, but it would be Frank Howard who would bring consistency to the program, leading the Tigers for 30 years and nearly 300 games. It was Howard who would start the tradition of rubbing the chunk of quartzite from Death Valley, California. Howard implored players, "If you're going to give me 110 percent, you can rub that rock. If you're not, keep your filthy hands off of it". The legend of “Howard’s Rock” was born and is the centerpiece of the famed, “Greatest 25 Seconds in Sports”. Clemson would go on to national prominence in 1981 under Coach Danny Ford when the Tigers won their first National Championship in an Orange Bowl victory over Nebraska. It would be 35 years until Clemson would reach such heights again, winning the BCS Championships in 2016 and again in 2018. Whether it is the history, tradition, or year-round passion for every morsel of the off-season and recruiting news, there is just something about college football in the South that resonates differently than it does in the rest of the county. Football at Clemson University is a true Southern football experience, rooted deep in traditions old and new. Food & Beverage 4 As with schools with a heavy tailgating presence like Clemson has, there are always impressive setups and spreads throughout the tailgating encampments. Fans are eager to offer up a plate to passersby or to share with neighboring tailgaters. Once inside the stadium fans have a bit more than just the usual concessions stand suspects. Hot dogs, cheeseburgers, and chicken sandwiches are the main staples but can be partnered with fries and a beverage for a combo meal. Those looking for a bit of a taste of the south can grab boiled peanuts on the top deck, marked ‘TD’ on stadium signage. Mac Attack with their mac-and-cheese serves three variations of the comfort food classic, while Fort Hill Grill in the southeast corner of the main level concourse has a limited menu, but does provide grilled bacon burgers and chili dogs. As with most schools in the south, Coca-Cola is the soft drink of choice at Memorial Stadium. Fans wanting something with a bit more of a kick to it are out of luck, as alcohol is not sold inside the stadium. Atmosphere 5 The game-day atmosphere of college football in the South has the feel of a highly formal event, from the tailgating to the game. By tradition with Southern Greek life, fraternity, and sorority members come dressed to the nines for college football games – sports coats and ties are common attire for fraternity members, while many female members of the student body don dresses in various hues of purple and/or orange. It is a rarity for any Clemson fan to show up without orange as a featured color in any outfit. The team’s arrival at the head of the “Tiger Walk” two hours before kickoff signifies the unofficial end of tailgating, as many fans crowd the walkway from Perimeter Road to Memorial Stadium to catch a glimpse of the team as they head to make final game preparations. Much of what makes the Clemson football experience so special are all the traditions that are interwoven from the pre-game warmups to after the final seconds tick off the clock, the highlight of these being what has been dubbed, “The Most Exciting 25 Seconds in Sports”. The Tigers board buses outside of their locker room on the west end of the stadium and ride them around to the east end. The stadium of more than 80,000 then erupts as the buses come into view and stop at the gates under the scoreboard. Head Coach Dabo Swinney gathers players for one last word of encouragement before a cannon blast signals the Tigers down the hill as they rub Howard’s Rock. The band erupts into “Tiger Rag” and fans ring out with, “C-L-E-M-S-O-(PAUSE)-N!”, as the spirit squad leads the team onto the field with flags spelling out “CLEMSON.” All this excitement comes in about 3-4 minutes, but the adrenaline of it all carries on throughout the game, from first down chants, touchdown cannons, and a well-choreographed musical selection that combines the traditions of the Clemson band with an in-house DJ. The in-game entertainment staff does such a good job combining the importance of Clemson’s traditions, partnering them with keeping students and fans engaged to perfectly complement the game, while not taking the spotlight off the reason everyone is there. As if there were not already enough traditions going on before and throughout the game, in one of the more...interesting...traditions in college football, win or lose, Clemson's students rush the field to sing the school alma mater with the team and coaches. While students rushing the field following a big win is not completely an uncommon occurrence, seeing it after handily beating a non-conference opponent does catch you off guard if you are not expecting it. It is so easy to get caught up in the traditions and events going on to complement the game, it almost makes you feel as if you are a Clemson alum. Neighborhood 5 With a population of just 17,000, game days bolster that number significantly. What typically would be a sleepy rural South Carolina town is transformed into a moderately populated city. Clemson, South Carolina is a great college town. College Avenue sits just off the northern edge of campus and is a stretch of apparel shops, bars, and restaurants. The sidewalks are crowded with fans dressed in orange, purple, and white. The street gets backed up with cars for close to a half mile. It is everything you would expect from a college town’s main thoroughfare on game day. For fans looking to take the game day experience late into the early morning hours, the Clemson nightlife continues until 2 a.m. If there is a drawback, it is that Clemson does not have a large hotel inventory city-wide, but does have a concentration of both locally owned and chain hotel options along Highway 123. Clemson’s small-town nature, along with the tailgate culture of the area, helps make Clemson a great game-day college town. Fans 5 Clemson football fans are every bit as passionate as any college football fan base you will find in the nation, and the recent successes of two National Championships in three years have done nothing but push that passion to a nearly unmatched level. Even for evening kickoffs, fans start setting up tailgating encampments in the pre-dawn hours for a full day of revelry before the main event. Tents and pull-behind trailers are set up as far as the eye can see, as fans spend the day grilling and putting down a few beverages as they toss footballs and take in the day’s early matchups. As game time nears and fans begin to empty the tailgating fields and head toward Memorial Stadium, they seem to already be filled with fervor in anticipation of kick-off. The game entertainment crew does a great job whipping fans into a frenzy before the game starts, but the fans need little help making “Death Valley” a difficult place for the visiting team to play, in turn making it such a memorable experience. Access 3 One of the biggest drawbacks is given its location, getting in and out of Clemson before and after games can be quite the challenge. Leading up to approximately 3 hours before kickoff, traffic patterns start to change with lanes and street closures. The streets of Clemson are not overly wide to handle a high volume of traffic. The volume of traffic paired with the number of pedestrians in and around campus can make navigating the streets challenging. There are free shuttles that bring fans from parking areas at the furthest reaches of the area and drop them off at Kingsmore Stadium. So, those who might not want to park in the heart of the game day festivities have the option to park closer to the main travel arteries into Clemson, to make getting out post-game a bit quicker. The most popular lots for tailgating enthusiasts though seem to be the intramural fields adjacent to Littlejohn Coliseum. Some fans have tried to circumvent the traffic issues with golf carts to make getting around town a bit easier. It works well for those in the carts, but it does create some uncertainty with pedestrians. As fans begin making their way into the stadium, the easiest access point is found along the northern side of the stadium and provides full navigation of the main level. Fans with tickets on the southern top deck will find an entry point at the apex of the steep hill. Some carts can assist fans in getting up the challenging grade. When looking at the navigability of Memorial Stadium, the lower-level concourse is split into inner and outer concourses – one side allows for lines of concession stands to back up without impeding the flow of fans. Other than some challenges in getting between levels on the southern side, Memorial Stadium does allow fans to get around the stadium with relative ease. Return on Investment 4 When looking at price points for college football, there are a lot of factors that go into ticket pricing besides the face value. Tickets for many of the high-profile programs get snapped up almost as soon as they go on sale, which leaves fans to navigate the secondary market. The secondary market can end up being rather deceiving, easily turning what looks like a bargain of a ticket into an expensive venture once service fees are tacked on. The further ahead you can plan, the more affordable the overall experience will be, and this will also increase the likelihood of securing a ticket when it goes on sale. Parking can get a bit expensive if waiting until the last minute and the need arises to pay for private lots. Off-campus prices typically run $40-$60 whereas on-campus lots typically run $10 - $30 if purchased ahead of time. A free lot and shuttle are available from the New Spring lot in neighboring Seneca, approximately 2 miles from campus. Extras 5 Clemson recognizes its heritage as a military school with a series of medallions honoring each of the branches of service. The medallions are embedded in each of the brick pillars that make up the exterior gates of the stadium along Williamson Road. Not enough can be said about the role Clemson’s traditions play in creating a top-notch experience. Clemson’s entrance down the hill is one of the few that can legitimately be considered in the discussion of college football’s best entrances. For $10 fans can rent cushioned seatbacks to make their game experience a bit more comfortable. Except for club-level seating, Memorial Stadium has exclusively aluminum bench seating. A rarity in college football, Clemson does provide fans with a half-time pass out, allowing them to leave and then later return to the stadium. Around the main level concourse, large banners highlight Clemson’s 1981, 2016, and 2018 championship seasons. Key bowl victories are also memorialized with similar type banners. Final Thoughts Clemson is one of the top game-day atmospheres in college football. Even in years when a championship season might not be realized, the passion from fans and the electricity that builds up inside the stadium leading to kickoff creates a one-of-a-kind college football experience. From the pregame festivities along both University Avenue and in the tailgating lots around Memorial Stadium, the energy that is built up inside the stadium leading up to kickoff, and a typically high caliber level of football, both contribute to creating an unforgettable college football experience.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Elliott T. Bowers Stadium 620 Bowers Blvd Huntsville, TX 77340 Sam Houston State Bearkats website Elliott T. Bowers Stadium website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 14,000 New Orange in the FBS Fresh off their FCS National Championship in 2020, the Sam Houston Bearkats have now leaped to the big time, joining the FBS for the 2023 season. Though smaller than many D1 football venues, Bowers Stadium offers a great atmosphere for college football, with an almost blinding amount of Bearkats orange on hand. Food & Beverage 3 Bowers Stadium has fairly basic concessions at stands in the middle on each side of the field – hot dogs, burgers, nachos, and Frito pie are available, as well as snacks such as peanuts, chips, and candy, plus soda, bottled water, and beer. There are also satellite stands along the walkway around the concourse which sell drinks and a few snack items. The secret item, though, and the best value by far at the facility, is the brisket nachos sold in the Bearkat Pavilion – the deck in the southwest corner. Tasty and filling, these nachos only cost $9, compared to $8 for most of the other main dishes. Atmosphere 3 The Bearkats have tailgating outside in the parking area, a great student section, a large band and spirit squad, and lots of orange – including the mascot. On the home side, the upper half of the seats are all bright orange chairbacks, all with cupholders, while the lower half are bleacher benches. There is a grass berm next to both sets of stands which is used by a few fans, as well as the best seats in the house, the aforementioned Bearkat Pavilion. Surprisingly not many fans sit up there, which is odd as they are certainly the most comfortable chairs you can find, and only steps away from their own concessions stand. Neighborhood 3 Bowers Stadium is located about an hour north of Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Huntsville, TX. The on-campus stadium is surrounded by parking lots, Sam Houston’s other athletic fields, and campus buildings. There are a few fast food restaurants nearby, as well as a Buffalo Wild Wings about three miles away. Huntsville is home to about 45,000 people and is most well-known as the home of Sam Houston, who led the Texian army in the decisive victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, and later became the first president of the Republic of Texas. The university is of course named after him, and there is a giant statue of him along I-45, a few miles south of Bowers Stadium. Fans 3 Sam Houston has great fans, and most of them show up in orange – the student section is formally known as the Bearkat Student Fan Zone, and they sit in the Kat Kage on the visiting side of the field. The student section may seem a little empty at kickoff, but tons of students will fill in during the first quarter, so it will be pretty full during the second and third quarters. Unfortunately, a lot of the students also tend to leave early, even during a close game. Overall Bowers Stadium will not sell out for most games, making it a little easier to move around, and letting you sit wherever you want. As their transition to the FBS continues, I expect the fan base to grow. Access 3 Bowers Stadium has metal detectors at all entrances (hand wanding, not walk-through scanners) – most home fans enter on the north or west sides, while those on the visitor side/in the student section enter on the north or south. If you enter on the north side, you can walk either to the east or west stands, but if you enter on the south side there are two separate entrances, so you can only go to one or the other. There is no re-entry offered at the venue, so if you want to change sides during the game, you have to walk around the pathway to the north end, as the south end (where the athletics building is) does not connect. If you come toward Bowers Stadium from the east, the roads and parking lots are all blocked off for those with passes, so you will be routed away from the stadium and will have to loop back around. The better option is to approach from the west or north, and the best place to park is in the tailgating lot right behind the scoreboard. The cost to park here is only $25 (you can pay at the gate, you don’t need to pre-pay) and if you drive around that lot a little you can park a few steps from the gate. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Sam Houston football games are only $10 for general admission, and again you can pay at the door and get a paper ticket (if you don’t buy in advance). This is probably the cheapest ticket you can get in the FBS, and for the atmosphere, I think this is a good return on investment. The concessions may seem a trifle on the high side but are pretty standard for this level of college football, and they are cheaper than you will find at many college football venues nowadays. Extras 3 They fire off a cannon (courtesy of the ROTC) every time the Kats score, and there is a Bearkats Hall of Fame in the athletics building next to the field. Final Thoughts While this may be not the biggest and worst college football experience in the state of Texas, attending a game at Sam Houston State University is a fun time, and well worth the trip if you are in the Houston or Huntsville area.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Wallace Wade Stadium 110 Bassett Rd Durham, NC 27708 Duke Blue Devils website Wallace Wade Stadium website Year Opened: 1929 Capacity: 40,004 A Football School in Durham The idea of sold-out crowds at Duke is not new. What is new is these crowds showing up en masse for football instead of basketball. Indeed, recent success has meant that Duke fans now have two major sports to cheer for, marking a new dawn for college football in Durham. Housed in a historic stadium on campus adjacent to other sports facilities, Wallace Wade Stadium features renovated and modernized touches on a football facility that has been around for nearly 100 years. Food & Beverage 3 The food options here begin with your standard stadium fare. Hot dogs ($5), pizza ($12-$14), and burgers ($8) can be found, alongside other non-standard options like mozzarella sticks ($10), chicken wings ($12), and Bavarian pretzels ($5). North Carolina BBQ sandwiches run $8 and are a star of the food options. Some stands also feature Bojangles chicken, while drinks such as beer ($9-$11), soda ($4.50-$5.50), and water ($4) are available. Atmosphere 4 The stadium itself is not new, having been constructed in 1929. Despite its age, multiple extensive renovations mean it now features more modern touches and has the look and feel of a new stadium. The nicest aspect is that most stadium entrances enter at the top of the stadium bowl – this means you walk down to your seats instead of up to your seats from the entrance. Most sections in the middle have individual chairs, while the sections on the ends have basic bleachers. However, the sections with seats have had the chairs bolted onto the front side of the seating tiers, meaning the seats tend to lean forward more than usual, which results in most seats feeling like you’re always leaning slightly forward of normal. The main tower features suites and boxes on one side of the stadium, while both sides have team stores, be they indoors or under outdoor tents. Neighborhood 4 Durham and the area around Duke’s main campus are experiencing a revitalization, especially in downtown Durham. The campus itself is beautiful and easy to navigate, with Wallace Wade Stadium sitting next to the school’s soccer stadium and track & field facility. Hotels are plentiful nearby, as are shopping and dining. Raleigh-Durham Airport is also only a 15-minute drive away, meaning that a weekend trip to catch some college sports in town doesn’t involve a lengthy drive out to somewhere far away. Fans 3 Recent success has led to Duke fans turning up in large numbers to football games, something rarely seen in the past. Higher rankings and consistent bowl appearances have meant Duke fans have reason to get excited when football season begins, and both the student section and regular seats are now hot tickets. However, while the physical seats may be filled, it is easy to see that fans here are new to football. Simple things like remaining quiet when Duke is on offense are lost, as fans roar and chant on critical plays. Tailgating around the stadium is plentiful, but only in the lots immediately adjacent to the stadium. In the nearby streets and neighborhoods, it looks like another day in Durham, just with more cars parked. That college football gamely energy is sometimes lacking as well due to the stadium being so open in its construction, meaning the fans are not as loud as they would be in other stadiums. Access 3 The parking at Wallace Wade Stadium is at times less than ideal – free parking is available but is not located near the football stadium, requiring a long hike back to the parking itself. Pay lots are available next to the stadium’s main entrance, but those all require parking passes and fill up quickly on even the quietest of game days, so make sure you purchase parking ahead of time if available. Several free lots are available in the area with shuttle buses to take you to the stadium and back as well. To get to the stadium, you just need to follow the signs locally for the college itself. Located near I-85 and perfectly framed by the 501 and 147 Highways, Duke University is just west of Durham proper. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Duke football start at $42 and go up from there. Considering the difficulty of finding parking, and the potentially expensive prospect of parking in a paid lot nearby as opposed to hiking a bit of a walk to get to the stadium, your cost is relative for Duke games. Whether it is worth the cost and effort also would depend on how much you want to see a game here, as the atmosphere is still learning and growing with the team’s success. Extras 3 The stadium is located near several of the school’s other sports stadiums, and with them, some memorial plaques and statues showcasing the school’s sports history can be seen. Additionally, the main concourse level underneath the suite tower also showcases Duke football’s history thanks to infographics wrapped onto support columns, explaining the team’s origins, the history of the Iron Dukes, and the team’s various bowl wins. Finally, there is a large kids' play zone at the field level beyond the scoreboard that is open to fans before kickoff. Final Thoughts Though they may still be in their growing phase of late, Duke football has a long history. This team is on an upward trajectory, and the fans are moving along with it. While the stadium has history and some updates thanks to recent renovations, it does remain in the simple and basic category of stadium layouts. Nonetheless, the great weather in North Carolina coupled with a stadium that features good views from practically all seats means there is a base level of quality to be expected when attending Duke football games.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Torero Stadium 5998 Alcala Park San Diego, CA 92110 San Diego Toreros website Torero Stadium website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 6,000 Beachside Football Torero Stadium at the University of San Diego is home to the university’s football team. USD is located near Mission Bay in northern San Diego, not far from the Pacific Ocean. The venue opened in 1961 and seats 6,000 fans – the field is named after Walter J. Zable, a local businessman and philanthropist. Food & Beverage 4 Torero Stadium offers a great mix of concessions items for $3 to $12 including Spam musubi, manapua, veggie rolls, Hawaiian bowls, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, popcorn, kettle corn, Kona ice, and tacos, as well as fresh-squeezed lemonade, as well as $2 bottled waters and canned sodas. These items are all available on the concourse above the stadium, but there is also a concession stand inside Jenny Craig Pavilion, located on the same concourse, that is open during football games (the same building which has the bathrooms). There is also another concessions stand on the home side for fans sitting over there who don’t want to walk back to the concourse during the game. The stand in the lobby of Jenny Craig Pavilion offers some of the same items as on the concourse, but has some additional items as well – hot dogs (including vegan ones), pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, chips, candy, ice cream, and churros. These items range from $4 for the smaller items to $10 for the vegan dog. The stand also offers bottled water, soda, coffee, tea, hot cocoa, beer, wine, and seltzer – alcohol starts at $8, but the non-alcoholic drinks are $4 to $5. Atmosphere 3 The setting is beautiful for San Diego football – great beach weather accompanies the action on the gridiron. There is a videoboard for replays as well as a cheerleading squad to help keep fans engaged. There is also a small tunnel which the players use to enter the field. The home side grandstands have fold-down chairback seats, while the seats in the end zone and on the visitor’s side have metal benches – strangely the “home side” is on the opposite side from the main concourse, but that side does have slightly more shade (although admittedly, not much). Neighborhood 4 Torero Stadium and the university are located in a mostly residential area, with only a few gas stations and local restaurants within walking distance along Linda Vista Road. The school’s basketball/volleyball venue is right next to the football stadium – in fact they share a courtyard. One great Mexican restaurant nearby is Taco Bomb, just up the street from the university; Taco Bomb is very authentic and definitely worth stopping by if you have a chance. There is an aquarium on UDS’s campus, which is also worth a visit, but the big attraction in the area is Mission Bay and all its beach and water-themed attractions, including SeaWorld San Diego, and there are about a million hotels along I-8 to accommodate all the visitors to this area. There are also plenty of other restaurants and attractions closer to San Diego proper if you want to drive 15-20 minutes south (longer with traffic). Fans 2 Not too many fans show up for San Diego football games, so the facility seems pretty empty – in fact you will see quite a few visiting fans depending on the game (for some games there are more visiting fans than Toreros fans). Interestingly enough, however, there is a small tailgating scene high on the hill above the stadium – you can see these fans grilling out and having a grand old time, all without actually needing to buy a ticket to enter the stadium and watch the game. Access 4 Traffic is not as bad as it seems like it should be, given the proximity to SeaWorld. There is free parking down the hill from the stadium on weekends, and fans can easily move back and forth between the different sides of the field during the game. There are bathrooms inside Jenny Craig Pavilion, on the concourse next to the visiting side. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Toreros football games are around $25 plus tax. The free parking helps, though, and concessions prices seem reasonable especially given this venue is in pricey San Diego/California – some items are especially inexpensive, such as the bottled water and sodas. While the action on the field may not have a lot of pomp and ceremony besides the game itself, the weather certainly can’t be beat – not that you need an excuse to visit San Diego, but a football game at USD would be a good one. Extras 3 There is a team gear stand inside Jenny Craig Pavilion, which sells items for multiple USD sports. You can also sit wherever you want for the football game, no matter what tickets you have. There is also a cool fountain and giant inflatable football on the concourse, adding a fun atmosphere, as well as a giant inflatable USD chair you can sit in and/or take a selfie.

Messer Street Grounds1879, Photo from Wikipedia Professional baseball was a fledgling sport in the late 19th century, with leagues popping up all over the country. It seemed that every town and city worth its weight featured a team of “professionals.” Even with all these leagues and teams, some leagues were of better quality than others. The best league of the day was the National League, which was founded in 1876. Originally consisting of eight teams, the league lineup changed often due to the folding of insolvent franchises or the movement to new cities. When the Hartford team was dropped after the 1877 season, a team was awarded to Providence, Rhode Island, where semi-pro baseball was successful. The team, called the Grays, played their games at the Messer Street Grounds, also known as Messer Park or Messer Field, from 1878 to 1885. When scouting for a location for their new ballpark, the Providence Base Ball Association identified the old Josiah Chapin farm on the City’s west side (now known as Olneyville) and decided it met their criteria. It was close to level, it was raised up a few feet from the surrounding roads and it was easily accessible by street car. The grounds were also “away from the contamination of rum shops and the attendant loafers.” Construction began on April 1 and took one month to complete. The final nail was hammered into place just five minutes before opening day on May 1. Messer Street Grounds, Photo Courtesy of the Providence Journal The Providence Morning Star declared “the grounds are without doubt as fine as any in the country.” The large grandstand held 1,200 fans and featured the first backstop to protect the fans sitting behind home plate. A twelve-foot fence encircled the entire field. The facilities for press and players were considered among the finest of the day. Capacity of the ballpark is estimated at about 6,000. Messer Street Grounds featured some strange dimensions, with a left field distance of 281 feet and a right field depth of an astounding 431 feet. Straightaway center field was only 318 feet from home plate, while both power alleys stood 356 feet away. The dimensions were a sore spot with reporters, with one complaining “a hit made in Providence near that foul line post is not a long hit; in fact that same hit in the right field seldom gives more than one base.” Despite the short distances, not many home runs were hit at Messer Street Grounds. In fact, only eight home runs were hit in the ballpark’s inaugural season. Compare that to the 200 hit in Chicago that year. A neighbor to the park allowed fans to sit on his roof and watch the game for only 25 cents, which probably didn’t make the Grays’ owners very happy. Providence Grays 1914 Team Photo with Babe Ruth, Photo Courtesy of ProvidenceOnline.com The Grays were successful in their short time in the National League, winning pennants in 1879 and 1884. The Grays won the first World Series (not to be confused with the modern World Series between the American and National Leagues that began in 1903) by defeating the New York Metropolitans of the American Association. Due to financial problems, the team folded in 1885. The team was replaced by the Philadelphia Phillies. Once the Major League version of the Grays moved out of Providence, a minor league team, also called the Grays, moved into Messer Street Grounds for the 1886 season. Unfortunately, the team had trouble attracting fans and the team folded by June. In February of 1887 the property was sold, the ballpark demolished, the land was subdivided, and houses started to spring up where the old ballpark used to stand. Today there are no markers to commemorate the site of Providence’s only Major League franchise. Today the site remains a residential area. Residences Today on Former Site of Messer Street Grounds, Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI

The earliest known sport to be played in Pensacola is baseball, and can trace its roots back to the days of the Civil War when Union and Confederate soldiers both passed the time by playing early incarnations of the game at Pensacola’s strategic forts, Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas. The sport would continue to grow and evolve and at the turn of the 20th century, Pensacola was home to several semi-pro teams, and a Navy base that supported several intrasquad teams that played against each other. The popularity of baseball in the area during this time period led to the need to construct a larger stadium to suit the needs of all the teams in the area. Thus in 1911 Maxent Park (later renamed Legion Field in 1927) opened west of downtown on the corner of G Street and Gregory Street. Legion Field Sign, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey There were various ballparks scattered throughout the city but Legion Field remained the go-to place for baseball in Pensacola. In the early years the ballpark had 1,000 wooden seats and was home to various local teams. The 1913 Cleveland Naps (later the Indians) and 1913 Brooklyn Robins (later the Dodgers) held Spring Training here as well. The Pensacola Snappers of the Cotton States League would call the park home in 1913 as well. A fire in 1915 destroyed much of the stadium, but it was rebuilt to a capacity of 4,000 seats. During this time the park was segregated, with only 3,500 white spectators allowed in the grandstands, while the 500 black spectators were required to sit along the left field line bleachers. Legion Field Grandstand in the 20s, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page In 1927, the ballpark became home to the Class B (equal to Double A today) Pensacola Fliers of the Southeastern League. The Fliers would fold after the 1930 season and a second Southeastern League team took over in 1937, the Pensacola Pilots, who would play until the outbreak of World War II. During the war many professional ballplayers would enlist, with some even being based in Pensacola. There were various Naval training fields starting to pop up in Pensacola during the war and baseball was very popular with the sailors who were stationed at the bases. Because of this Pensacola had their own little Navy baseball scene with each base having their own team, and Legion Field served as the neutral field for some of these teams. The 1944 Bronson Field Bombers was the most impressive team in the Navy baseball league, led by an outfielder named Ted Williams, who paused his baseball career to serve as a flight instructor and was stationed in Pensacola. Ted Williams Served as a Flight Instructor while Stationed in Pensacola, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page Ted Williams’ Bronson Bombers team, Williams is Top Row Sixth from Left, Photo Courtesy of Kenneth Dumas Facebook Page Over the years Legion Field would see other big time baseball players play on the field; the 1924 and 1929 Yankees would play games here. The 1929 team, coming off back to back World Series, were doing their Florida Spring Training exhibition tour when they scheduled an exhibition with the Fliers. In front of a record crowd at Legion Field the Yankees beat the Flyers 12-2. T hat Yankees team would have eight future Hall of Famers on the team including Babe Ruth, who led off the game with a triple, and Lou Gehrig who was hit by a pitch in his first at-bat. Before the game a parade was held in the city with the Yankees team being led down historic Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. Actual Photo of Babe Ruth at Bat at Legion Field, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page Lou Gehrig at Bat during Spring Training in 1929, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page Babe Ruth Signed Hundreds of Baseballs during the Two Games he Played in Pensacola, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola The Gulf Coast also had a pretty strong Negro League scene with various teams being located all around, from Pensacola to as far away as Mobile and Biloxi. In 1945, the Pensacola Sea Gulls Negro League team would face off against the Kansas City Monarchs, led by a young player named Jackie Robinson. It is unknown if Branch Rickey, the Dodgers GM, was in attendance during this game, but he was in town at the time, as the Brooklyn Dodgers used the nearby Ellyson Fields Naval Base as their minor league Spring Training home during that season. Nonetheless, several years later Rickey would broker a deal to sign Jackie Robinson to the Dodgers, breaking the baseball color barrier and becoming one of the most legendary figures in all of sports. Jackie Robinson during his Stint with the Kansas City Monarchs in 1945, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page The stadium would see one more big league game on April 2, 1946 when Warren Spahn and the Boston Braves faced off against the Detroit Tigers in an exhibition game the Tigers won 13-6. Minor league baseball would return to Pensacola after the war, with the teams’ nickname being changed back to the Fliers. The Fliers would be affiliated with the Phillies and would call Legion Field home until the league folded after the 1950 season, which would be the end of Legion Field as a professional baseball stadium. Professional baseball would return in 1957 with the Pensacola Dons of the Alabama-Florida League, but the Dons would play at a better ballpark downtown. The Dons would fold after the 1962 season and it would be exactly 50 years before affiliated baseball would return to Pensacola in the form of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Color Photo of the Pensacola Fliers, Believed to be from the Early 1950s, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page The grandstand was razed in the 1950s, but soon after the site would be purchased by the City of Pensacola and would see new life as part of the city’s parks and recreation facilities. The site now includes a library, rec center, an outdoor fitness center and jogging track, playground, and a football field which is used for youth football games. There is nothing left of the baseball field and you wouldn’t even know there was a former ballpark here at one time. But after doing some research I concluded that the ballpark faced southeast, with the outdoor fitness center occupying the site where home plate would have been, and the playground being where the pitcher’s mound was located. The outfield wall ran parallel to G Street, with the houses providing the backdrop. Random Couch where Left Field Used to be, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey In 1929 Babe Ruth Stepped up to Home Plate and Hit a Triple from where the Far Right Slide is Now, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Concessions Stand where the Third Base Grandstand used to be, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Many Home Runs were Hit onto G Street, also Some of the Houses Shown are still Standing Today, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey View of Legion Field from Right Field in the 1920s and 30s, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Facebook Page View of Legion Field as it looks Today, from what was Right Field, Photo by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Even though Legion Field is long gone, it still marked the beginning of a minor league sports scene in Pensacola that would evolve into countless teams and countless future big league ballplayers coming through Pensacola over the years. Blue Wahoos Stadium Opened in 2012 and is where Minor League Baseball in Pensacola is Played Today, Photo Courtesy of Baseball in Pensacola Special thanks to Scott Brown, author of Baseball in Pensacola, who assisted me with research for this article and whose book I used as a reference guide. Scott answered any questions I had and was a great help. If you are interested in more of Pensacola’s unique baseball history I highly recommend getting his book; the book goes into great detail about the history of baseball in the area and is a great read: Baseball in Pensacola: America’s Pastime & the City of Five Flags (Sports): Brown, Scott: 9781609497828

Renderings courtesy of the Tampa Bay Rays After years of potential stadium deals falling through and the constant threat of relocation, the Tampa Bay Rays announced this month a brand new stadium agreement to remain in St. Petersburg, FL. “This will be a transformative project for the Rays, St. Petersburg, and Pinellas County," said Tampa Bay Rays Principal Owner Stu Sternberg. "We have proudly served as Tampa Bay’s Major League team for 25 years, and we are thrilled to be in a position to do so for decades and generations to come.” To be located adjacent to the current Tropicana Field property, the new facility will feature a state-of-the-art 30,000-seat indoor baseball stadium. In addition, the new development will include 8 million square feet of mixed-use development, including dining, shopping, public green space, and residential space. “Our transformational development of 86 acres in the heart of St. Petersburg will benefit St. Pete and Tampa Bay residents for generations to come," said St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. "The Rays are here to stay, and it’s also critical to underscore that this impactful work is much bigger than baseball and extends far beyond the 17-acre ballpark. We are duty-bound with our intentional efforts to honor the broken promises made to the Historic Gas Plant community, an incredibly special place that my own family called home. Our strong partnership with Pinellas County and the Hines-Rays group is coupling opportunity with hope, linking jobs to economic growth, fulfilling a commitment to minority business participation, and building thousands of residential units, including a significant number of affordable and workforce housing to uplift families and strengthen neighborhoods." The announcement of the new stadium deal draws to a close nearly a decade of relocation rumors and failed stadium proposals. With cities like Orlando courting the Rays to relocate, many thought that if a deal could not be reached, the team would likely leave, much like the Oakland Athletics had announced at the start of the year. The current home of the Rays, Tropicana Park, has routinely been rated one of the worst stadiums in the league and frequently ranked low on the average attendance list for MLB. Part of the proposal includes integrating the nearby community into the property, located in the historic Gas Plant neighborhood of St. Petersburg. The stadium project is reported to invest more than $6.5 billion in St. Petersburg over 20 years, making it the largest mixed-use development project in Tampa Bay history.

Anyone who has been there will tell you that Oklahoma City is vastly underrated. In this episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views, Dave and Paul head south to one of the gems of Minor League Baseball, Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and the Oklahoma City Dodgers. ⚾⚾🏟️ You can find Stadium Journey's review of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and the Oklahoma City Dodgers game day experience here.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Harvard Stadium 95 N Harvard St Boston, MA 02134 Harvard Crimson football website Harvard Stadium website Year Opened: 1903 Capacity: 30,323 Harvard’s Yard Built in 1903, Harvard Stadium is the nation’s first stadium built for college football. Containing architectural elements of a Greek stadium and Roman circus, it is considered an engineering marvel, as it was the world’s first massive reinforced concrete structure. Harvard Stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is one of just four athletic arenas to be so designated. A gift from Harvard's Class of 1879 for their 25th anniversary, Harvard Stadium amazingly only took 4 months to build at a cost of $310,000. The physical layout of Harvard Stadium is quite significant to the way football is played today. When college football's rules committee met to discuss ways to make the game less violent and dangerous back in 1906, one of the rules changes considered was widening the field by 40 feet. Since widening Harvard Stadium was an impossibility, and the committee felt that losing the prestigious Harvard team would be a death-knell to the fledgling sport, the committee decided to adopt the forward pass instead. In addition to college football, rugby, lacrosse, soccer and even ice hockey have been played at Harvard Stadium. The New England Patriots called Harvard Stadium home for two years during the 1970 and 1971 seasons. Part of the 1984 Olympic soccer competition was held here, as were the U.S. track and field Olympic trials in 1916 and 1920. Harvard first sponsored a football team in 1873 and were one of college football’s dominant teams in the early years of the sport, as the Crimson won twelve national championships between 1873 and 1920. Even today Harvard ranks in the top ten in all time wins in college football. Over their history Harvard has won 17 Ivy League titles and have had 21 alumni enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. 38 Crimson alumni have played in the National Football League. Food & Beverage 3 When they were building Harvard Stadium around the turn of the century (and I’m talking about the 20th century here), it’s not very likely that concessions were considered in any part of the planning process. That being said, there are enough food and beverage options here to satisfy any hungry football fan. There are a few permanent concession stands tucked into small spaces underneath the grandstand. These stands offer a basic menu consisting of hot dogs and assorted snacks (pretzels, nachos, popcorn and peanuts. Coca-Cola products are featured at Harvard Stadium. For something a little more substantial, check out the grill located just outside Harvard Stadium’s west entrance. Here fans can purchase burgers, sausages, chicken fingers and french fries. Food trucks scattered around the area offer hot beverages, ice cream treats, fried dough and other snacks. During football games the Dillon Pub moves outside into the grassy space just north of Harvard Stadium. Fans can enjoy some adult beverages here before the game while listening to live music and playing some outdoor games. Brews from local favorites Sam Adams, Castle Island and Wormtown Brewery highlight the offerings here. Atmosphere 4 You might think a facility with the age and history of Harvard Stadium and a team with the tradition of the Crimson would hit you over the head with their history at every opportunity. This really isn’t the case. Harvard lets the historic surrounding do the talking for itself. There is absolutely a certain aura that is felt when stepping into this concrete behemoth, but the focus is squarely on the game taking place on the field. Most of the entertainment aspects college football fans have come to expect at a game today can be found at Harvard, including the pep band, cheerleading squad and dance team. There is a modern video board atop the Murr Center in the north end zone, which is utilized to good effect with videos, replays and advertisements. There are even ribbon boards on the ivy-covered walls of the Murr Center which display game statistics, although they did stop working early on during Stadium Journey’s visit. There are on-field contests for younger fans in attendance, t-shirt tosses and a modern sound system. There’s a good turnout from the student body and a most impressive turnout from alumni. The greatest drawback is even a crowd of 10,000 fans, which is large for an FCS team, can be swallowed up by the enormity of Harvard Stadium. If you come to Boston for a game with a smaller crowd, the atmosphere will suffer greatly. Now, if you happen to be visiting for the latest installment of “The Game” against archrival Yale, prepare yourself for one of the great experiences in all of college football. Neighborhood 5 Before or after a game at Harvard Stadium, take a walk across the Anderson Memorial Bridge, which spans the Charles River, and explore Harvard Square, a top Boston tourist destination. While Harvard Square may not be the bohemian center it once was, it still is one of the most popular areas in Boston for walking, shopping, and people watching. For those wishing to bask in the history, architecture, and aura of Harvard, walking tours of the campus occur regularly. While touring the campus, take a picture in front of the statue of John Harvard, as so many others have done. Just remember these three things about the statue: 1) it is not actually a statue of John Harvard (no image of him exists), but of a random student; 2) John Harvard was not the founder of the college, but its first benefactor; and 3) the college was actually founded in 1636, not in 1638, as the statue claims. But remember to rub his shiny shoe, it is rumored to bring good luck. For an entirely different experience, head in the other direction, into the town of Allston. Known as a working-class town, Allston has no shortage of bars, shops and restaurants just a short drive from Harvard Stadium. If neither of these choices do it for you, head to downtown Boston, just a couple of miles away from the Stadium. You’ll find more than enough to interest you there. Fans 4 Harvard averages between 10,000 and 11,000 fans per game annually, a figure which regularly ranks them in the top twenty FCS schools in attendance. During years where Harvard hosts “The Game” versus Yale, this figure increases accordingly. A sellout crowd of over 30,000 will do that to an average. You’ll find a cross-section of Boston sports fandom at Harvard Stadium, from assorted alumni who have been coming to games since they were in school to townies and other casual sports fans. There’s also a decent turnout from the student body on any given Saturday. With the compact footprint of the Ivy League, expect a decent turnout from visiting fans as well. Fans are not rowdy at Harvard, but they are vocal in their support of the Crimson and not afraid to make some noise. Access 4 While Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, Harvard Stadium is located across the Charles River, in the Allston section of Boston. Also located here are most of Harvard’s other athletic facilities, including Lavietes Pavilion, Bright-Landry Hockey Center, O’Donnell Field, and Jordan Field. Anyone who has ever tried to drive the crowded, crooked streets of Greater Boston can tell you that you are better off leaving your car at home and taking public transportation. The same is true for getting to Harvard Stadium. Stadium Journey’s recommended method of travel to Harvard is the subway, or “T”, as it is called locally. The Harvard Station MBTA stop is a 10-minute walk from the Harvard Stadium. Several bus routes also stop at Harvard Station. The 66 and 86 busses stop directly in front of the athletic complex. For more information, fares and schedules check out the MBTA website. If you do insist on driving to Harvard Stadium, simply take Storrow Drive to North Harvard Street. Parking is available throughout the Athletic Complex. Cars are jammed into seemingly every available space in the complex. Tailgating is only allowed in certain areas, and some parking areas are a decent walk from the stadium, so reserve your spots and arrive early. Harvard Stadium is an enormous concrete horseshoe. Fans will enter the stadium underneath the grandstand into an open concourse, where concession stands and restrooms can be found. Over the years the school has made great efforts at paving and smoothing the concourse area, eliminating the old “ankle buster” spots and tripping hazards that showed up from time to time. Keep in mind that Harvard Stadium is almost 120 years old, so it is not the most accessible stadium you are going to visit. Stairs lead up to the seating bowl, emptying out about a quarter of the way up the grandstand. All of the seats here are concrete bleachers, so bring some padding to protect your backside. Fans requiring handicapped seating can access the accessible seating area via a ramp located on the open (north) end of the horseshoe. All seats feature excellent views of the action. Return on Investment 3 Harvard University uses a variable pricing system for their home games. Prices start at $20, with youth and seniors discounted to $10. Certain premium games (i.e. conference games vs. Princeton) have increased ticket prices to $25. Waiting for game day to buy your tickets increases the price by five dollars. If you are looking for tickets to “The Game,” the biannual game against Yale, expect to pay significantly more (we’re talking $100 each - and be sure to get your tickets well in advance). Parking in the many lots located throughout the athletic complex (and it does seem like cars are squeezed into every available nook and cranny of the complex) will run you between $10-20. It is highly recommended that you purchase in advance. More parking information can be found here. Concessions are a bit pricey, but are generally in line with other facilities in the area. Extras 3 Harvard won multiple national titles in the early days of college football. These championships are commemorated along the façade of the south end zone, along with Ivy League championships. A banner honoring the Crimson’s 1920 Rose Bowl win is hung in the north end zone by the scoreboard. A second extra point is awarded for the Dillon Pub, filled with live music, food and beverage before every game. A final point is awarded for the aura football fans will experience when entering Harvard Stadium. There are not many stadiums anywhere that can match the history of this place. Final Thoughts Many places today will substitute the word “historic” for “old.” While Harvard Stadium is indeed the latter, it is most certainly the former. More than just a stadium that has been around for a long time, Harvard Stadium had a direct influence on the game of football that we know today. A visit to this concrete behemoth on the banks of the Charles River should be on the short list for any serious college football traveler. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI

Photo created by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The landscape of Double-A baseball has changed dramatically in the last couple of seasons. This past season 30 clubs in the Southern League, Eastern League, and the Texas League took the field and played games from early April to late September, resulting in over 10 million fans for an average of around 4,483 per game. The ballparks haven’t changed, perhaps some of the ball clubs and cities, but the true essence of family fun remains. We present our rankings of the overall experience. Factors we include in our ratings are food and beverage in the ballpark, overall atmosphere, the neighborhood, the fans, access (which includes parking, traffic, restrooms, and concourses), return on investment, and an “extras” category for any unique or bonus points. Without further ado, our 2023 Double-A Baseball ballpark rankings. 1. Riders Field - Frisco Roughriders 4.43 Michael Davis - Riders Field offers one of the best minor league baseball experiences in an intimate setting in a populated area. The Frisco area is becoming a sports fan’s destination paradise. If you’re in the Metroplex, be sure to give the ballpark, the lazy river, and the Frisco RoughRiders a visit – seeing this park is well worth it for the unique entertainment experience. 2. FirstEnergy Stadium - Reading Fightin Phils 4.43 Gregory Koch - We have seen numerous older ballparks across minor league baseball close recently. Thankfully, it doesn’t seem likely that FirstEnergy Stadium will suffer the same fate, and we hope it stays that way. It is truly a gem of a stadium and among the last of its kind. It marries the old-school charm with the quirkiness of today’s ballparks. 3. Dunkin’ Park - Hartford Yard Goats 4.43 Paul Baker - It feels like newer ballparks attract big crowds for a few years until interest fades and attendance settles in at a lower baseline. Dunkin’ Park seems to be bucking that trend as they play their sixth season in downtown Hartford, with crowds increasing annually. Complaints about the long road to building the ballpark have disappeared as Connecticut baseball fans enjoy one of the best ballparks in the minor leagues. 4. ONEOK Park - Tulsa Drillers 4.43 Meg Minard - ONEOK Field sports and entertainment is very much geared towards families and children. In addition, it is still an enjoyable visit for those without youngsters. Tulsa, though not the ‘hotbed’ of tourist destinations, has plenty to see and visit. 5. Blue Wahoos Stadium - Pensacola Blue Wahoos 4.29 Matt Colville - You know you are in a special place as soon as you walk through the gates. Friendly ushers and the front office staff greet customers at the gates, providing an excellent atmosphere and plenty of on-field excitement. Almost every night, there is a different theme, promotion, or giveaway. Expect plenty of entertainment between innings, with emcees Downtown Dave and Sunshine Sammy providing a multitude of giveaways and games to keep the fans engaged. 6. HODGETOWN - Amarillo Sod Poodles 4.29 Sean MacDonald - The ballpark has something for everyone. The main entrance is one of the most alluring in all the minors, and the unique stadium name shows creativity and a desire to be different. Of course, there is no history or “Road to the Show” display yet, but that will change. The Sod Poodles will be a mainstay in the area for years to come, and all minor league aficionados should schedule a visit at their earliest convenience. 7. Riverfront Stadium - Wichita Wind Surge 4.29 James Hilchen - In its first few seasons, Riverfront Stadium is already a great ballpark. With the plans in place, it will only get better in the coming seasons. Good food, great seats, and an aesthetically pleasing stadium allow for a fun time for fans. For baseball-traveling fanatics, make sure to add this one to your list; it won’t disappoint. 8. Toyota Field - Rocket City Trash Pandas 4.29 Richard Smith - The Trash Pandas is loved across the minor league baseball landscape, and the ballpark offers eventful promotions and fun times during the spring and summer months in Northern Alabama. 9. Hammons Field - Springfield Cardinals 4.29 Meg Minard - Baseball radiates strongly at Hammons Field. The ballpark is a dream for the baseball purist, and the Cardinals continue to be the ideal place for baseball enthusiasts and other fans to spend their evenings. 10. Smokies Stadium - Tennessee Smokies 4.29 Ethan Stone - Smokies Stadium has been called "America’s Friendliest Ballpark”. It's obvious when fans walk through the gates. Everybody, from the fans to the event staff, is friendly, helpful, and passionate about the game. Check out a Smokies game while you can, as they make plans to relocate back to Knoxville in a few years. 11. Hadlock Field - Portland Sea Dogs 4.14 Paul Baker - Hadlock Field is among the top minor league ballparks in the nation. It may have more to do with where it is rather than what it is. It may not be the most modern venue, but it houses enthusiastic, knowledgeable fans and plenty of kitschy touches. 12. Dickey-Stephens Park - Arkansas Travelers 4.00 Dave Cottenie - Most people don’t think “grand” or “baseball” when they think of Arkansas, but Dickey-Stephens Park shatters all of these preconceived notions. The stadium is a true minor league gem that provides an amazing game day experience in a beautiful setting that draws folks back again. 13. Canal Park - Akron RubberDucks 4.00 Eric Hasman - Canal Park is a comfortable, clean, and well-maintained ballpark and is worth the trip based on the food alone, but the people make this a must-see park. Nestled in the downtown buildings of Akron, Ohio, a RubberDucks game is a great time. 14. Northeast Delta Dental Stadium - New Hampshire Fisher Cats 3.86 Gregory Koch - While it may not top anyone's list of best minor league ballparks, plenty is going on here to make it well worth visiting. While Manchester is clearly in Red Sox territory, and a Blue Jays affiliate may seem out of place, the team still has its loyal fan base and creates a wonderful game-day atmosphere for all in attendance. 15. Regions Field - Birmingham Barons 3.86 Lloyd Brown - The ballpark provides a great game day experience for the whole family. The park is well-designed and offers several areas to entertain all age groups. The stadium has drawn development to this previously barren area of downtown Birmingham. There is also new housing, restaurants, and other forms of entertainment going up on all sides of the ballpark. 16. Riverwalk Stadium - Montgomery Biscuits 3.86 Lloyd Brown - Overall, the venue is a quiet little gem of a ballpark. It’s not grandiose and shiny like its northern neighbor in Birmingham and an ocean paradise like its southern neighbor in Pensacola. But it’s local, friendly, and casual and gives you the feeling that you’ve found something special that only a few know about. 17. Peoples Natural Gas Field - Altoona Curve 3.71 Jay Wagner - Altoona is the ballpark with the roller coaster behind the outfield wall, providing one of the prettier backdrops in the minor leagues. However, there is much more to enjoy at the game during the season. 18. Whataburger Field - Corpus Christi Hooks 3.57 Eric Moreno - The ballpark shows its age but is still beautifully done and in a great location. Visiting Corpus Christi is also always a great respite. Whether you’re taking in another game, visiting one of the many museums, or just heading to the beach and dining on first-class seafood, there is plenty for any visitor to do on the Texas Gulf Coast. 19. TD Bank Ballpark - Somerset Patriots 3.57 Matthew Collins - The former independent ballpark has made the transition to affiliated ball quite smoothly. The ballpark is regularly packed with fans from all over the Garden State, and its location on the interstate makes it easy to access from the various towns in the area. 20. Prince George’s Stadium - Bowie Baysox 3.57 Gregory Koch - The ballpark was one of the first new ballparks to open during the ballpark craze started by Camden Yards. As a result, it is certainly a modern ballpark but lacks many of the bells and whistles that the newer parks have. While some of the new ballparks feature 360-degree concourses, specialty concession items, and unique areas, Prince George’s Stadium has none of that. 21. AT&T Field - Chattanooga Lookouts 3.57 Lloyd Brown - Chattanooga and AT&T Field can provide you with a moderately priced getaway weekend. The stadium is near all the main attractions in the downtown area, including the Chattanooga Choo Choo, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Riverwalk along the Tennessee River. 22. MGM Park - Biloxi Shuckers 3.57 Matt Colville - This 6,000-seat ballpark is situated less than 100 yards from the beaches of the Gulf Coast. Biloxi is known as a casino destination, and MGM Park sits in the middle of all the casino action. The luxurious Beau Rivage Casino, a giant lit-up guitar, and Hard Rock Casino line the backdrop, providing a scene of glitz and glamor that remains unmatched at any ballpark in the country. 23. The Diamond - Richmond Flying Squirrels 3.43 Joesph Oakes - While the Diamond shows its age and needs to be replaced, management has done a great job of making the giant chunk of concrete more welcoming through their promotions and “Funnville” initiative. Hopefully, the city of Richmond will keep its word and work with the Flying Squirrels to build a new ballpark. 25. Arvest Ballpark - Northwest Arkansas Naturals 3.29 Dave Cottenie - Taking in a baseball game at Arvest Ballpark in Springdale is a great idea for the whole family and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals provide a great experience. It’s only natural for fans to want to make return trips! 25. Trustmark Park - Mississippi Braves 3.29 Matt Colville - Trustmark Park may not be as flashy as some of the more modern ballparks, but after close to twenty years, it holds up well as a great place to catch a ballgame. The M-Braves may not pack out the house every night, but they take great pride in being affiliated with their big-league club, something you don't see at many minor-league. 26. UPMC Park - Erie SeaWolves 3.29 Dave Cottenie - The experience at UPMC Park for the Erie SeaWolves is a decent Minor League experience. The uniqueness of the park, even among minor league facilities, offers something a little different. The small footprint makes UPMC distinct, however, better, more consistent attendance would make the experience better. Photo Courtesy of Mickey Meachem, Google. 27. Momentum Bank Ballpark - Midland Rockhounds 3.14 Matt Finnegan - A game at Momentum Bank Ballpark offers a solid minor-league baseball experience at great prices, particularly for a Double-A team. Fans can see players just two steps away from reaching Major League Baseball in a beautiful stadium with easy access. Photo Courtesy of Jerry Haines, Google 28. Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium - San Antonio Missions 3.14 Eric Moreno - While it does have some age to it, there is no denying that there is something special about Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium. While it might lack some of the bells and whistles of more modern venues, it still captures all the best features. If you find yourself in the Alamo City during the summer, make it a point to head out to the Wolff and catch a Missions game. 29. FNB Field - Harrisburg Senators 3.14 Gregory Koch - Although an island in the middle of a river may not seem like the best place to build a baseball stadium, FNB Field manages to make things work. Although the layout is a bit quirky and perhaps annoying, once you manage to find your way into the stadium and to your seat, the experience is top-notch. Throw in unique extras like life-size bobbleheads and unusual promotions, and a Senators game is well worth a trip for anyone in Central Pennsylvania. Photo Courtesy of Bill Christopher, Google. 30. Mirabito Stadium - Binghamton Rumble Ponies 3.00 Brian O'Sullivan - Even though the Binghamton franchise has struggled to increase its attendance numbers in recent years, the team offers a fairly good ballpark experience. If you have the chance to catch a game in Binghamton, it is worth the trip.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey I thought I was attending a regular season baseball game between the Thrillville Thrillbillies and the Jackson Rockabillies at Marion Stadium this past Wednesday night. However, I soon learned it was an exhibition game dubbed The inaugural Thrillbillies Tighty Bowl. The game featured a different setup for the 9-innings of play that resembled some of the unusual rules I saw at the Savannah Bananas game a few weeks ago in Indianapolis. Rather than 9-10 unique rules, each inning played differently. A few of them worked rather well and went along swiftly. An on-field MC was on the field to entertain the crowd while continuous music flowed through the speaker during the game. The Thrillbillies mascot having some fun with toilet paper with the crowd. The game featured a different setup for the 9-innings of play that resembled some of the rules I saw at the Savannah Bananas game a few weeks in Indianapolis; instead of 9-10 unique rules, each inning played a bit differently. A few rules worked well and went along swiftly for the crowd entertained by an MC and constant music played throughout the game. The first two winnings worked out very well. The team started off the game under The Wimbleton Inning. All hitting and throwing had to be completed by a tennis racquet. Players pitched from a serve, and batters could smack the tennis ball on the bounce. Outfielders then had to catch with one hand or throw to a base for an out. It included a lucky fan taking an at-bat. A Jackson Rockabillies player swings at a tennis ball with a racquet during the first inning of play The second inning had every member of the team on the field. While batters put the ball into play due to no pitcher on the mound, and a foul ball caught in the stands is out. The Thrillbillies mascot and Sud Mobile weaved in and out of the players in the outfield during the inning of play. A few other innings had the players swap baseball for kickball. They slid into each base on a Slip n Slide doused with foam from the Sud Mobile. It was a constant presence for most of the evening as the truck sprayed a gun full of foam onto the first few seats of the grandstand, dousing everyone (including myself). A few players had some solid boots, but sliding into a sea of foam and being soaked with a ball was thrilling to watch. Safe at home during the kickball game What didn't work were a few innings that took some time to set up and caused heavy delays. The Battle of the Sexes game was fun and exciting, but both teams had to bring in makeshift plastic walls when it was their time to play by the softball rules. The saving grace, and perhaps the most viewed by the fans, was a high school junior striking out three college players, although she gave up two home runs. However, her performance wowed the crowd to the future Western Illinois pitcher. The Giveaway Inning, where four business reps from the community would run for batters as they tried to win a lucky fan a prize grill or black diamond innings, also featured three pitchers on the mound. Let the Fans Hit inning was a great idea, but it took a bit longer to select fans from the stands and then get them to play. A local high school junior struck out three players, despite giving up two home runs in her one inning of work. I have to give the T-Billies management credit; they were creating something fun and exciting for the fan base, even though many probably did not know what to expect. Just like with anything new, there is bound to be some tinkering with the rules in the future. By the time the last inning was played, in complete darkness with players decked out in glow sticks, the gimmick had worn off a bit. The Thrillbillies management earns credit for pulling off such an elaborate display of baseball shenanigans. Throughout the game, the suds mobile blasted fans, the dance team entertained patrons between innings, and many walked onto the field during events to mingle with the players for access, unlike anytime else at a ballpark. The last inning was a total blackout and played in the dark; players worked reflective suites After the game, the Tighty Bowl trophy was awarded to the Thrillbillies, who hosted the underwear cup-shaped trophy up into the air. The two teams would play again tomorrow night under Prospect League rules. However, tonight might have been the start of something in Marion. A game that could take place annually or bi-annually that will no doubt look a little different the next time the Thrillbillies take the field. It was exciting and thrilling, and when it moved smoothly, it was a marvelous spectacle. I will look forward to the next go around. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

The “Fastest Short Track on the Planet” is finally set to be on the big stage. On Tuesday, it was announced that the Iowa Speedway will host a NASCAR Cup Series race for the very first time. The NASCAR-owned track is located in Newton, Iowa, about 35 miles east of Des Moines. The announcement, made by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, NASCAR Hall of Famer and track designer of the Iowa Speedway, Rusty Wallace, NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski, and many other luminaries was the culmination of a long wait by NASCAR fans in Iowa who had heard rumors of a Cup race since the speedway’s opening. The 7/8-mile Iowa Speedway opened in 2006 and has hosted numerous races over the years. Currently, the track is home to an ARCA Menards race (Calypso Lemonade 150) in June, and a two-race IndyCar weekend in July. The speedway had previously hosted NASCAR Xfinity Series races from 2009-2019, but the 2020 race was canceled due to Covid and the race league hasn’t returned since. The Cup race, expected to bring in about $100 million to the surrounding community, will be part of a three-day race weekend in June, 2024. The event will begin with an ARCA Menards race on Friday, June 14, followed by an Xfinity race on Saturday, June 15, and the Cup race on Sunday, June 16. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram: @stadiumjwriter

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Marion Stadium 1000 Miners Drive Marion, IL 62959 Thrillville Thrillbillies website Marion Stadium website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 7,000 Take a Thrilling Ride in Thrillville, USA Marion Stadium is home to the Thrillville Thrillbillies of the summer collegiate Prospect League. The team returned to organized baseball to back Marion, Illinois, after the Southern Illinois Miners of the Frontier League folded in 2021. The 7,000-seat ballpark is among the biggest in the summer league, but a new name and imagery hope to bring fans back to the ballpark. The stadium hoped to lure a Single-A Midwest League team by former mayor, but when that did not work, the town opted for the independent Frontier League. The Miners were a success during its inaugural season of 2007, attracting 259,392 fans, but after several years of declining attendance, the love affair appeared to be over. The original owners retired after the 2021 season, and baseball was gone. Enter the Thrillbillies, whose unique identity is inspired by the regional outdoor adventures of off-road driving and rock climbing. The club’s logo of a deer and rabbit riding an ATV and skydiving adheres to those outdoor adventures of Southern Illinois. The venue opened as Rent One Park but reverted to Mountain Dew Park in early 2023, but changed to Marion Stadium at the start of the T-Billies opening night. Besides summer collegiate baseball, the ballpark hosts the Colt World Series and the Great Lakes Valley Conference, and Ohio Valley Conference college baseball tournaments. Food & Beverage 3 The ballpark introduced a whole new menu, including a few interesting items that hope to be signature items: the Thrillville Chicken Sandwich and Burger. There are also Mexican, barbecue, and sweet treats to appeal to most fans at the ballgame. The Thrillville Chicken Sandwich is fried in Flaming Hot Cheetos crumbs, doused with habanero sauce, and served between two Krispy Kreme donuts. The Thrillville Burger is topped with bacon and cheese sauce in between two crispy waffles as buns. They sell for $10; fans can make it a combo with chips and a drink for $3 extra. The main concession stand behind homeplate serves hot dogs (regular and foot long), ¼ pound cheeseburgers, grilled or breaded chicken sandwiches, and chicken strips. All sandwiches can be upgraded to a combo, fully loaded, or include extra heat if desired. The Catina is located down the third base end of the concourse and offers quesadillas with chips, three street tacos, and fully loaded nachos. The barbecue stand features pulled pork, smoked chicken, and brisket sandwiches. A kiosk behind the backstop offers brisket sloppy joes with barbecue chips. The colorful Lollywood concession stand serves sugary sweets, including ice cream, doughnuts in three different flavors, assorted candies, and cotton candy. Fans can also order cheese and pepperoni pizza slices, too. The alcoholic drinks are also behind the backstop and include Budweiser products from Bud, Bud Light, Mich Ultra, and seltzers from Nutrl and Cutwater. The cocktails available are a Mt. Dew Margarita, Sangria, and various mixed drinks. Atmosphere 3 Marion Stadium has a different look than other ballparks of its kind. Instead of a red brick and hunter-green canopy design, the structure’s colors are black, steel, and gray. The main concourse features exposed piping from the press box and suite area with open views of the playing field from anywhere in the stadium. Due to the transition of the stadium to the new ball club, there is evidence of the old Miners that include seat signage with a rock design in the former team’s colors and the removal of the Rent One Park logo outside the stadium’s main entrance. However, the Thrillbillies aura is presently painted on the walls of the Lollywood concession stand in a graffiti style. The Thrillbillies have a dance team that performs on the dugout innings, along with assisting the on-field promotions in between each inning of play. The team’s rabbit mascot can be seen on the field and in the stands entertaining fans of all ages. The team shop is stocked with club gear, from caps, t-shirts, and other trinkets. The stadium features 14 luxury suites and an events center up above the third base side that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The field uses Sportexe Turf, a synthetic surface that drains easier than natural grass and can be used for other events throughout the year. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is directly off I-57 and between regional restaurants and hotel chains. A few hotels are located in the same parking lot of the stadium and are ideal for easy access back and foot during a visit. However, many close around 10 pm Sunday to Wednesday, but if visiting on a weekend night, you will have a few options. 618 Tap House is within seconds by car from the ballpark and features pub food from chicken wings, burgers, and sandwiches. The draft list is impressive and ideal for a pint or two after the game with friends. 17th Street Barbecue has one of its locations in the neighborhood with pulled pork, brisket, and smoked chicken available until it’s gone. With the family, Applebee’s, Logan’s Roadhouse, or Buffalo Wild Wings are close to Marion Stadium. Fans 4 The fanbase is getting to know the T-Billies and averages over 2,000 fans per game. The crowds are respectable for the league. You will see folks wearing team colors and caps and supporting the ball club; hopefully, there will be something to cheer for years to come in Marion. Access 4 The stadium is at the intersection of I-57 and Illinois Route 13. There are three parking entry gates for guests to enter the parking area. Inside the ballpark, fans can get around and access the three main points of sale for concessions and the merchandise store near the main entrance. After the game, traffic moves smoothly out of the parking lot, but could be cumbersome on nights with larger crowds. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are $8 for a seat in the grandstand and $5 for lawn seating down the third baseline. The club does not charge for parking. Concession prices are as low as $4 for a hot dog and $10 for a Thrillville Burger or Chicken sandwich. Merchandise prices are in line with many other franchises in the league, with a cap selling for $30 and a t-shirt for $25. Extras 4 Marion Stadium earns a point for its Thrillville Burgers and Chicken Sandwich. It is awarded a second point for its distinctive design compared to other ballparks of its era. A third point is for the ticket prices which are only $5 and $8 a night. A final point is for the management to develop promotions that include the unique Tighty Bowl game. Final Thoughts The Thrillbillies have a distinct branding that hopes to bring fans back to the ballpark. The team looks to reach beyond the typical baseball promotions and help make a night at the game a “thrill” again in Southern Illinois. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

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

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Montgomery Field 322 Grand Lake Rd. Celina, OH 45822 Grand Lake Mariners website Montgomery Field website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 300 Baseball by the Grand Lake The Grand Lake Mariners have been members of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League since 1990 and were named for its connection to the St. Mary’s Grand Lake, which is a few hundred feet away from its home ballpark Montgomery Field. The Mariners have called it home since the 2013 season, but quite a bit has changed over the years. In 2018 a new building was added on the first base line that would serve as the teams’ dugout, Press Box, concession stand, and indoor batting complex. The previous building had been destroyed by a tornado that previous fall resulting in heavy damage to the stadium’s fencing and the destruction of two light poles. The non-profit Celina Baseball Association raised money for the construction of the new building, and plans for a smaller version are planned for the 2023 season on the 3rd base side. The Mariners began with a local fan writing a letter to Commissioner Lou Laslo in 1989 about placing a team in Celina, Ohio. When Laslo visited the town, he agreed, and the following season the club began operations. The ball club’s most successful era was between 1994 and 1998, when they appeared in 5 straight championship games, winning two in 1994 and 1997. The M’s would add another in 2006 and have seen eight players appear in Major League Baseball, including former Cleveland pitcher Paul Shuey serving 11 seasons in the big leagues. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand has two windows behind the home team dugout that serves hot dogs, brats, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and nachos. The booth also has freshly popped popcorn, an assortment of candy bars, chips, and soda. For dessert, the menu options include ice cream sandwiches and freeze pops. Perhaps the most popular food item is a condiment. Mariner Sauce is a brown, sweet-relish that is used on hot dogs, brats, and burgers. It is a secret homemade recipe with onions, brown sugar, ketchup, and a few other secret ingredients. Beer is served on the opposite side of the dugout area in the beer garden and includes cans of macro and microbreweries. The local beers include varieties from Moeller Brew Barn, Tailspin Brewing Company, Second Crossing Brew Company, and Lake Rat Brewing in Celina. The two tailspin cans are 32-ounce, and fans can purchase a Mariners’ koozie or beer bat. The macro beers are Bud, Bud Light, and Busch Light. Atmosphere 4 Montgomery Field holds 300 fans, and close to 260 were on hand during our visit. It is a rather unusual design facility that has the main entrance from the left field corner of the ballpark. The beer garden, lined with trees and roped off by an orange fence, takes up the space behind the right field fence and is buzzing on a cool summer night by the lake. Once you get around the large press box and batting cage complex, the main grandstands open up with kids running around chasing foul balls, older kids playing catch, and picnic tables set up for fans to enjoy a snack. It is where you will find the concession stand and merchandise table selling quite a bit of t-shirts and caps. Netting protects fans from a foul ball while providing a clear view of the synthetic field. The grandstands are made of aluminum bleachers behind home plate and the 3rd base foul line, but more room extends down the left field corner where fans enjoy the game from a lawn seat or two. There is a pitching and batting cage where young fans take turns with their skill at the plate or on the mound. Neighborhood 3 There are a few things to do in town, including Grand Lake Marys State Park. The 13,500-acre state park offers camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking around the man-made lake that dominates the town. Families can enjoy putt-putt golf at the St. Marys Miniature Golf range and enjoy the Belle of St. Marys Boat Canal. The Bicycle Museum of America is outside of town but worth visiting for its vast collection of two-wheel bikes. The Boardwalk Grill is a fun hang-out spot after the game that overlooks the lake and includes an upstairs patio. The restaurant offers sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, and libations. A few other places include C-Town Wings, CJ’s Highmarks, The Willow, and the Speakeasy Steak & Alehouse. Fans 4 The crowd is near capacity for home games, and many are wearing the Mariners colors of blue and green in the stands. There are a few who have the club’s old interlocking GL logo on worn-out caps. Many will be more than happy to tell you about the team’s history, the special sauce at the concession stand, and how the community supports the ball club. Access 3 The main entrance to the ballpark is off Grand Lake Road, which intersects with US-29. There is parking behind the main grandstand and outside the right field fence. Montgomery Field is not set up like your standard ballpark with the main grandstand and baseline seating, but there are more than enough areas to enjoy the game while in attendance. Return on Investment 4 The price of an adult ticket is $5, concession prices for food are no more than $3 an item, and canned beers range from $ 4 to $5 for 16-ounce cans. Fans can purchase koozies for $1 and a beer bat for $10. A baseball cap and t-shirt cost around $20, while a few game-worn jerseys are a steal at $20. Extras 4 Montgomery Field earns a point for its selection of microbrew beers for a $5 can. A second point is for the secret concoction called Mariner Sauce which is topped on burgers, hot dogs, and brats. A third point is awarded for the giant clubhouse that offers players indoor batting cages, a changing room for umpires, a large press box, and a concession area for food and beer. A final point is the Grand Lake St. Marys which is only a few yards away from the ballpark. Final Thoughts I have to admit that I had low expectations about Montgomery Field, and that’s due to a lack of information about the ballpark and town. It is by no means the most glamorous ballpark, but there is a lot to enjoy from the beer garden, the assortment of food and beverages, and its location in the pretty lakeside town. There is strong community support that adds a wonderful backdrop to any baseball game. This is a ballpark worth checking out when in the area. —— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Foundation Field 1140 River Street Hamilton, OH 45011 Hamilton Joes website Foundation Field website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 600 Not Your Average Joes “We haven’t had a review of the ballpark in years,” says Hamilton Joes President/GM Darrel Grissom as he squeegees the water off the main grandstand that was just doused with a quick shower from a thunderstorm. The last time Foundation Field had a review was in 2003 when the Florence Freedom of the Frontier League used it as a temporary stadium while its ballpark was under construction 40 miles south in Kentucky. I had attended a game that summer but don’t remember too much of that initial visit. Grissom added that there was a set of temporary bleachers down each line that increased capacity to 3,000 for games. “They had a set of long bleachers that were somewhat uneven; they are gone and the ballpark is much better these days.” Foundation Field is now a 600-capacity ballpark that fits perfectly in the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League and for the past eleven seasons has been the home of the Hamilton Joes. The team’s nickname is in honor of hometown hero Joe Nuxhall, who became the youngest pitcher in Major League Baseball with the Cincinnati Reds at 15 and later served as team broadcaster until he died in 2007. The ballpark was constructed in 2002 and originally built for the Miami University Hamilton baseball program. The Joes take over during June and July and have brought home two league championships in 2010 and 2016. The not-for-profit organization has and, according to its website, has placed over 30 players in professional baseball since 2009. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand at the ballpark has a menu consisting of grilled hot dogs, burgers, metts, and brats from $2 to $4.50. A mett is a popular sausage served in the Cincinnati area and found at other ballparks in the area, it’s a nice alternative at the game. Nachos and soft pretzels are $3 each and soda pop sells for $2.50. The concession window features a small bell that reads: Ring for Beer. The beer sold at the game is either Coors Light or Miller Lite and costs $5 a tall can. Atmosphere 3 There is a small-town atmosphere that is somewhat welcoming these days at a baseball stadium. Foundation Field is a very basic facility but it attracts nice crowds of fans who support the Joes each summer. The main grandstand houses the majority of the seating and features a press box on the top along with championship banners. Many in this section bring a seat cushion for the aluminum bleacher-style seating. There are small wooden bleachers scattered down both baselines but most fans enjoy the game from the lawn seats brought into the game. The backdrop of the stadium is residential homes and the steeple of St. Joseph’s church, where the gold cross shines during night games. The concession and merchandise table is a hub of activity behind the visiting dugout on the first base side where fans pick up shirts and hot dogs from the same place. The sausages and burgers are cooked up on the grill a few feet away. You will also find fans watching the game from their seating in this area that is rather close to home plate. Netting is set up to protect fans from foul balls or a thrown bat. Several promotions are not too over the top and announcements are not deafening loud or obnoxious. The public address announcer will stand in front of the crowd while they play guess the name of a song or find items on hand to win vouchers to local area restaurants. It is a very relaxed atmosphere with all the basic amenities offered to the fans. If you like your baseball without the in-your-face promotions, a Hamilton Joes game might be a nice alternative. Neighborhood 2 Hamilton is about 30 minutes north of Cincinnati and offers a few attractions that include Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, Municipal Brew Works, Hanover Winery, and Butler County Courthouse. Miami University is just a few miles north of Oxford offering a charming little college town. Jungle Jim’s International Market is 6 miles south of the ballpark in Fairfield and it’s the Disneyland of supermarkets featuring departments of international foods, craft beers, wine, cheeses, produce, and exotic meats. You can also find regional foods not normally found in the Midwest. There is even a bar where fans can shop while enjoying a pint of beer. Fans 4 A Joes game averages around 400 a game but a thunderstorm right before the game this evening distracted fans from the game. However, the roughly 100 people in attendance provided the building a nice atmosphere and there are more than just friends and family of the players on the field. Boos and jeers are evident during a play at third that resulted in the Joes coach getting tossed from the game. Access 3 Foundation Field is located along the Greater Miami River near SR-127. The two nearest interstates I-275 and I-75 are 7.5 miles and 12 miles away from the ballpark. Inside the stadium, there is one main grandstand that features a ramp and both bathrooms and concession areas are located down the first baseline. Return on Investment 3 All tickets to the game are $5 a person, the same price for a beer, and three dollars more for a hot dog. The prices are affordable for this level of baseball and the small-town atmosphere is very strong throughout the nine innings of play. There is a small parking lot that is free of charge. Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for the beer batter that two times during the game resulted in a dollar off beers. The second point is that all customers have a choice to bring in lawn chairs and even sit underneath various tents. The last point is for the nice array of team merchandise from soft tees with creative designs to ball caps that range from $15 to $20. Final Thoughts Foundation Field offers a small-town ballpark experience and is dedicated to anyone enjoying baseball in its purest form. The Great Lakes League houses many of these types of small ballparks and the Hamilton Joes have a nice little operation taking place just north of Cincinnati. —— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Jack Adam Stadium 1915 Quebec Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45205 Cincinnati Steam website Jack Adam Stadium website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 300 Full Steam Ahead in Cincinnati The Cincinnati Steam are members of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League; the team began operations in 2006 in the league. The organization plays at three different venues in Cincinnati, including the Reds Youth Academy, a couple of games at Xavier University, and Jack Adam Stadium, the home of the Elder High School baseball program. However, this is not your typical high school baseball field. The $ 500,000 stadium was funded entirely through donations, including Elder alumnus Jack Adam who covered half the cost of its construction. The ornate brick venue opened in 2014 and is part of the Panther Athletic Complex that includes practice facilities for the high school soccer, golf, tennis, and track and field programs. The stadium features an arched entrance and towers to resemble the design of nearby Elder High School. The Steam has played at other locations in town but feels that the Elder ballpark is their most prominent home. The club won championships in 2008 and 2009 and was named after Queen City’s riverboat heritage along the Ohio River. However, in a city where “red” is the color of baseball, how does “Steam blue” compare as an option for the baseball dollar? NOTE: In September 2023 the Steam announced via Twitter that it would be on hiatus for the 2024 Great Lakes season to return to play in 2025. Food & Beverage 3 There are food and drink options available at the ballpark. Hot dogs, sausages, and burgers are fresh off the grill and cost $1 each. Small packs of potato chips are included with your purchase, and you can wash them down with cans of Pepsi-Cola varieties. Since it’s a high school venue, alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the grounds. It’s not a lot of variety, but it makes up for the cost and taste. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark seats 300 people and includes bucket seats behind home plate with bleacher seating down each baseline. There is giant netting that protects fans, while an operational press box handles game-day announcements and broadcast operations. The seating behind home is colored purple after the Elder and packed with fans from both ball clubs-the opponent Hamilton is 29 miles north at Foundation Field. The brick facade is tastefully decorated with a giant arched entrance with the name of the school etched on top. The stadium feels more like a castle than a place for baseball and includes the state championship of the high school’s past. There is also a bench with a replica of Mr. Red to pose with pictures. The smell of the grill, banter from both benches and the cheering from the crowd complement the atmosphere. However, there are no on-field promotions, team mascot, or overly-hype PA guy. Here, the focus is on the game on the diamond; something that should please the baseball purist, but there are no rosters, scoresheets, or game-day programs for those such purists. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is in the Price Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati in the city’s southwest corner along the Ohio River. It is one of the oldest outlying settlements of the city; it has gone through a revitalization that includes renovated older homes and the promotion of commercial and artistic opportunities in the region. The best options for eating include the Incline Public House, Nation Westwood, Primavista, and Incline Smoke Shack. Tacos El Joven and Veracruz Mexican Grill are two other options for authentic cuisine. Price Hill Chili has been in operation since 1962 and is one of the city’s local chili parlors, but offers breakfast all day, double-decker sandwiches, pasta, entrees, and burgers. A few miles down the Ohio River is Great American Ballpark, the home of the Cincinnati Reds and the club’s hall of fame. Across the river is the Newport Aquarium in Kentucky, and a mile up from the Great American is Rhinegeist Brewing. Two great attractions in the area include the Cincinnati Museum Center and the American Sign Museum. Fans 4 The Steam attracts an enthusiastic crowd to the ball game, although having the local Hamilton Joes added a few more fans in the seats. The crowd concentrated on the game and remained focused throughout the nine innings. Due to the rather small size of the venue, the stadium felt much fuller than normal. Access 3 Jack Adam Stadium is more than a mile away from Elder High School. It caused a little confusion, as I had to ask twice how to get to the ballpark by a security guard at the football stadium on campus. He nicely pointed out that there was an address at the entrance to the football stadium, but type in Panther Athletic Complex into your GPS to find the ballpark without a problem. Once at the complex, the ballpark features ample parking, easy access to the concourse and bathrooms, and more than enough room to move around. Signage off the main road is also visible for the first-time visitor of a Steam game. Return on Investment 4 This is where the ballclub excels in terms of return on investment. All games are free, food options are a buck, and merchandise ranges from 10 to $15. In this day and age, at any level of Summer collegiate baseball, these prices cannot be beaten. Hot dogs and burgers are a dollar, fresh off the grill, New Era caps are $15 in three varieties, and drift t-shirts are a bargain at $10. To say that a Steam game won’t break your wallet is an understatement. It is how a game at this level should be done. Extras 3 The Cincinnati Steam earns points for one-dollar concessions and $15 ballcaps. The club gets another point for free admission to all home games. The final point is for the brick facade of the stadium and the arched entrance that stands out among the better high school ballparks in the area. Final Thoughts There is nothing truly fancy about the game-day operations for Steam in terms of gimmicks and promotions. Oh, that makes up for the cost and fan appreciation during the game. I have to say this is one of those small little ballparks that’s worth checking out that’s easy on the wallet and enjoyable at the same time. --------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Wrestlers, the new seven-part docuseries, is the best thing I’ve seen on Netflix. Director Greg Whiteley raised the bar with his stellar Last Chance U series, and he surpasses it with Wrestlers. As the title suggests, Whiteley chronicles the up and down, rough and tumble existence of professional wrestlers. In Wrestlers, indie wrestling promotion OVW (Ohio Valley Wrestling), located in the Louisville area, takes center stage. It’s a no-frills, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants operation, a world away from the glamour of the WWE and the AEW. It’s a good night for OVW if the turnbuckles work, and the wrestlers receive gas money. They do it for the love of “the sport,” and the squared circle is the one place where they feel like they matter. And… if they kill it at OVW, there’s a chance they can make it to the big time. John Cena and Dave Bautista are OVW alums. As far as pro wrestling, it has all been documented before in one form or another, but not like this - with the Whiteley touch. Whiteley is a gifted storyteller with a nose for nuance. Whiteley gets the wrestlers to open up and go to some dark places on camera without feeling exploitative. When the wrestlers do grapple, it means so much, much more than a predetermined match. And Whiteley’s expert camera crew makes the action look terrifically cinematic. Lastly, there are some wonderful montages set to music. Styx’s Come Sail Away has never sounded so good. Ditto for Bowie’s Major Tom. Unlike other indie promotions, OVW produces a weekly television show, which is expensive. Indeed, at the start of Wrestlers, the television show is on the cusp of shutting down. As a Hail Mary, partners with means have been brought in. The most outspoken partner is Matt Jones, a popular sports radio talk show host. Jones means well, but he rubs some of the wrestlers, including OVW’s leader, Al Snow, the wrong way with his aggressive demeanor. Snow is a familiar name to wrestling fans. In his heyday, Snow was known for his schizophrenic character who communicated with a plastic mannequin head. Snow and Jones have their share of disagreements. Snow wants to wrestle with poignant storylines. Jones’ priority is getting eyeballs and butts in the seats. Amid all this, Jones is dealing with a serious health issue, and Snow is playing the stone-faced high school principal with OVW’s motley crew of grapplers. Hollywood Haley J and her mother, The Amazing Maria James, are two of the most compelling wrestlers featured. They’ve had their issues. Haley spent much of her youth couch surfing because her mother was locked up. Now, she has a boulder on her shoulder and a mission to make the WWE. When these two face off against each other in the ring, it’s art imitating life - or vice versa. Either way, it’s powerful stuff. I’m no fan of spoilers, so I won’t say how it all ends. However, Whiteley brings Wrestlers to a satisfying end, while still leaving viewers wanting more. Wrestlers is more than deserving of a Season 2. Jon Hart is @manversusball

Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig at Kinsley Park in 1927. Photo Courtesy of smallstatebighistory.com Kinsley Park was an athletic field located in Providence, RI, on the shores of the Woonasquatucket River. It was primarily used for minor league baseball, but professional football and soccer games were also held here. It was built by Peter Ludati, a prominent local real-estate developer and part owner of the Providence Steam Roller. Ludati also built the Cycledrome, which served as the home of the Steam Roller from 1925-33. Kinsley Park may be best known as the site of the first night game in National Football League history. The Providence Steam Roller was scheduled to play the visiting Chicago Cardinals on Sunday, November 3. However, heavy rains made their home field, the Cycledrome, unplayable. Rather than lose a potential payday, the game was postponed for 72 hours until the night of the sixth. With the Cycledrome field unfit for use, the game was moved to the Steam Roller’s previous home, Kinsley Park. For the hastily scheduled game, floodlights were brought in to illuminate the field. An account of the game published in the Providence Journal described the system as “33 giant projectors on poles 53 feet high, and nine poles on top of the grandstand.” To help the players see the ball, it was painted white. The Providence Journal reported the ball “looked like a giant egg.” The Cardinals won the game 16-0 behind the running, passing and kicking of Ernie Nevers, who scored all 16 Chicago points. He rushed 23 times for 102 yards and a touchdown and also completed 10 of 15 passes for 144 yards and another touchdown. Nevers also kicked a 33-yard field goal and an extra point. The game attracted over 6,000 fans, making the game a success financially. Seizing the opportunity, Ludati installed floodlights at the Cycledrome for the next season, with other NFL owners soon following suit. Babe Ruth with Tim O'Neil, Photo Courtesy of smallstatebighistory.com In addition to its football notoriety, Kinsley Park also was known as a hot spot for integrated baseball. The ballpark often hosted Negro League games as well as integrated games between teams of black and white players. The first professional baseball game that was played at Kinsley Park occurred in 1921 between the Cleveland Colored Giants, a team made up of black players and the Providence Independents, made up of white players. This game was part of an experiment called the International League, which collapsed after the game, stranding the Cleveland team in Rhode Island. The team stayed in Providence, eventually rebranding as the Providence Giants. The team lasted for three years before a dispute over salaries resulted in the disbandment of the team. Kinsley Park is considered by some as sacred ground for black baseball. Babe Ruth played in Providence for a short time for the Grays in 1914, but that was before the construction of Kinsley Park. He did come back with Lou Gehrig in 1927 as part of a barnstorming tour that stopped at Kinsley Park. Kinsley Park site in 2020, Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Kinsley Park was closed by the end of 1931. It was torn down in 1933. No trace of the field remains. Today only a parking lot stands on the site across from the Nicholson File Company Mill Complex. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

While many baseball fans stick to visiting the ballparks of Major League Baseball and its affiliated teams, there is a culture of quality baseball and impressive facilities located from coast to coast across the continent - independent baseball. Since the great minor league reorganization of 2021, these independent leagues have become more closely affiliated with MLB and serve as a testing ground for proposed rule changes and initiatives, some of which have come to be used in the majors. There are seven professional independent baseball leagues located throughout the continent. Players who fill the rosters of these leagues range from former Major Leaguers fighting to keep their careers alive to players who never got the chance to play under the bright lights of the upper levels of pro baseball. Stadium Journey has visited 52 of these cathedrals to the game, ranking them according to our patented FANFARE Rating scale, which takes into account a ballpark's food and beverage, game day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access, value, and more. When two or more ballparks were tied, we consulted a Stadium Journey Council of Elders to break those ties. Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present our list of the 20 best game day experiences in independent baseball for 2023. 1. Fairfield Properties Ballpark - Long Island Ducks - Atlantic League 4.29 Meg Minard - Summer on Long Island can be a lot of fun with the beaches, piers, and boating. When on Long Island, be sure to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying a laid-back, entertaining nine innings with friends and family at Bethpage Park. 2. Duly Health and Care Field - Joliet Slammers - Frontier League 4.29 Eric Hasman - Duly Health and Care Field has a surprising lot of pros to make it one of the best ballparks in the Chicagoland area. It offers a wraparound concourse, creative food options, cheap prices, a healthy selection of craft beers, and an active surrounding neighborhood to make it well worth your while to visit. 3. Jimmy John's Field - United Shores Professional Baseball League 4.29 Marc Viquez - There is a lot to say about Jimmy John’s Field and the USPBL. There have been leagues in the past that have operated out of one baseball stadium, but those stadiums were nowhere near the caliber of Jimmy John’s Field. 4. Shaw Park - Winnipeg Goldeyes - American Association 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Winnipeg Goldeyes are a class act in the world of independent league baseball. The crowd support, enthusiasm, friendly staff, and all-around a great time are what makes a visit to Shaw Park a great investment with your ballpark dollar. 5. Dehler Park - Billings Mustangs - Pioneer League 4.14 Meg Minard - This is an excellent ballpark to visit with the focus of entertainment on the ballgame while still providing modern conveniences, good food, and engaging fans. 6. Clipper Magazine Stadium - Lancaster Barnstormers - Atlantic League 4.00 Gregory Koch - Although Lancaster has not had an affiliated baseball team for 60 years, that has not stopped the fans here from cheering for their local independent league team. You wouldn’t know from looking at Clipper Magazine Stadium that it’s Indy Ball rather than affiliated, and the experience here is as good as it is at many “real” minor league parks around the country. 7. Mercy Health Stadium - Lake Erie Crushers - Frontier League 4.00 Chris Green - The Lake Erie Crushers are a team that is perhaps overlooked too often, which is unfair to their extremely family-friendly atmosphere. Mercy Health Stadium is well laid out, and while it may not feature multi-level suite boxes or upper deck seating, the venue offers great sightlines and comfortable seating in all areas. 8. Thomas More Stadium - Florence Y'Alls - Frontier League 3.86 Marc Viquez - Thomas More Stadium is a small stadium that packs in a big punch. It is a simple facility that makes up for it by getting base hits with free parking, local food variety, affordable prices, and a positive attitude. The use of the water tower and the phrase "Florence Y'all" is awesomely fun. 9. Joseph L. Bruno Stadium - Tri-City ValleyCats - Frontier League 3.71 Paul Baker - While “The Joe” may not stand out from the crowd as a facility, the ValleyCats do a whole lot right at Bruno Stadium. With a game day experience that features a top-notch menu, excellent customer service, and numerous extras, a trip to Tri-City is certainly one worth taking. 10. Franklin Field - Milwaukee Milkmen - American Association 3.71 Marc Viquez - Milkmen Stadium is a fancy new facility that will only be challenged by the imagination of its architects who are currently building the Ballpark Commons around it. The enthusiasm by the game day staff dressed as milkmen and the numerous dairyland themes make for a nice alternative to watching professional baseball in Milwaukee. 11. Haymarket Park - Lincoln Saltdogs - American Association 3.71 Paul Baker - Haymarket Park is a nice facility located close to downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska. Sports fans visiting the area should be sure to check out the nearby Memorial Stadium. Baseball fans will enjoy the mix of the ballpark’s small-town feel and modern amenities. 12. Field of Legends - Kansas City Monarchs - American Association 3.71 Marc Viquez - CommunityAmerica Park is a very nice place to watch a baseball game; it’s spacious, plenty of promotional nights, and is easy to get to by car. If you happen to be in town when the T-Bones are playing, it might be worth your effort to watch a game on the Kansas side of the city. 13. Wellspan Park - York Revolution - Atlantic League 3.71 Paul Baker - PeoplesBank Park represents the York community perfectly. It is not a flashy place but has plenty of features to keep the casual fan interested. Plus, it is a comfortable place for the serious baseball fan. Loaded with local vendors and touches, PeoplesBank Park is worthy of a Stadium Journey. 14. Stade Canac - Quebec Capitales - Frontier League 3.71 Paul Baker - Quebec would never be considered a baseball city by most fans, but Les Capitales has been one of the more successful independent teams both on and off the field. A trip to historic Stade Canac is one worth taking for any ballpark chaser. 15. Grizzlies Ballpark - Gateway Grizzlies - Frontier League 3.71 Marc Viquez - It is a marvelous, little ballpark that has become one of the better ones in independent baseball. The ticket prices are affordable, the food is creative and fun, and promotional nights should attract fans to the stadium. When in St. Louis, there is more than one option for a baseball game. 16. Impact Field - Chicago Dogs - American Association 3.57 Marc Viquez - Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and one that pushes the boundary for stadium design and aesthetics. The Chicagoland is a crowd with both major league and MLB partner league ballparks, and the Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. 17. Bosse Field - Evansville Otters - Frontier League 3.57 Marc Viquez-Bosse Field is an example of baseball from another time and its aura can be felt the moment you walk through the main entrance. To many, it’s a tourist attraction and a baseball destination for ballpark travelers. However, it remains “a foe to time” and “a monument to the city” and one of the last of its kind in professional baseball. 18. Truist Point - High Point Rockers - Atlantic League 3.57 Michael Rusignuolo - While they aren’t selling out their spacious stadium, the Rockers are drawing decent crowds for their games and seem to be developing a respectable local following. The fans that are showing up seem dedicated, with most already decked out in team gear and lining up a good half hour or so before the gates open. 19. Newman Outdoor Field - Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks - American Association 3.57 Paul Baker - Ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field and cities like Fargo are the backbone of minor-league baseball. Boasting affordable prices, a friendly atmosphere and a comfortable, fun place at which to watch a game, a trip to North Dakota is a worthy Stadium Journey for any baseball fan. 20. Wild Things Park - Washington Wild Things - Frontier League 3.57 Steve Bloom - Located adjacent to I-70 and near the Washington Crown Center shopping mall, the colorful ballpark offers various food options, between-inning promotions, and even cookies and milk.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Crypto.com Arena 1111 South Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90015 Los Angeles Clippers website Crypto.com Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 19,060 L.A. Our Way The franchise that is now known as the Los Angeles Clippers began existence in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves. The team spent eight seasons in upstate New York, where they played third fiddle at the old Buffalo Memorial Auditorium behind the National Hockey League’s Buffalo Sabres and the Canisius Golden Griffins basketball team. Canisius, who saw the Braves as a threat to their success, would regularly schedule the best dates at The Aud, effectively locking the Braves out. The team enjoyed little success in Buffalo, making the playoffs three times. After a failed attempt to sell the team and relocate to South Florida, owner John Y. Brown transferred ownership of his team with Irv Levin, owner of the Boston Celtics, so that Levin could move the Braves to southern California. In 1978 the team moved to San Diego and rebranded as the Clippers. The team failed to make the playoffs in any of their six seasons in San Diego. In 1984 new team owner Donald Sterling moved the team north to Los Angeles without league permission. The team continued to struggle in their new home, racking up a succession of losing seasons and making more news with off-the-court incompetence than for anything done on the court. In the late 1990s rumors were rampant that the Clippers were looking for a new home to replace the Los Angeles Sports Arena, where attendance had fallen to under 10,000 fans per game. Most reports had the team headed to Anaheim and the Honda Center. However, in 1999 the Staples Center was built, and the Clippers joined the Lakers and Kings as tenants in the new building, located two miles from their previous home at the LA Sports Arena. The Clippers have struggled as the third tenant in the building but have received more favorable scheduling and lease terms in recent years as their popularity has grown. The 2010s have been kinder to the Clippers, as the team qualified for the playoffs seven times in the decade, matching the number of playoff seasons over the franchise’s first 41 seasons. Still, the team has yet to advance past the second round of the playoffs. There is much to be excited about for the Clippers’ 50th season, as the team signed Kawhi Leonard and traded for Paul George. The team is considered among the top contenders for the NBA title. The Clippers have not disappointed thus far in the 2019-20 season, staying near the top of the standings and competing, finally, with the Lakers for top billing in southern California. Note: The Staples Center name changed to Crypto.com Arena in Dec, 2021. Food & Beverage 4 The Staples Center does not disappoint in terms of concessions, offering a wide variety of options for the hungry Clipper fan. Among the offerings are Wahoo’s Tacos, LuDo Bird, Dave’s Doghouse, Wetzel’s Pretzels, Blaze Pizza and Salt & Char Burgers. Mixed in with traditional arena fare are uniquely southern California options such as fish tacos, ahi tuna poke nachos and sushi. Several stands offer kosher, vegetarian and vegan options. A complete listing of concession options at the Staples Center can be found here. Coca Cola products are featured at the Staples Center. In addition to national beer brands, local craft brews from Golden Road and Goose Island Breweries are featured. The Figueroa Bar on the 100-level concourse offers a wide variety of draught beer, signature cocktails and specialty drinks. Atmosphere 4 Visiting fans who come to the Staples Center expecting a Hollywood-style extravagant gameday presentation might be disappointed by the fairly standard atmosphere at a Clippers game. All the typical gameday elements are here, from the dance squad, an energetic PA announcer, mascot and DJ who keeps the building full of noise both during the game and play stoppages. There are fan contests, giveaways, social media promotions and t-shirt tosses throughout the game to keep the casual fan interested. Clippers fans really start to get excited during the fourth quarter, as the team has partnered with Chick-Fil-A to give away a free chicken sandwich if an opposing player missed both free throws. One thing that is very apparent when attending a Clippers game is the fact that they are the third tenant in this building. The statues at the entrances, the murals on the walls and the banners hanging from the rafters all belong to the Lakers and Kings. Hopefully with some success, the Clippers can start to create a presence in the building. Neighborhood 5 Los Angeles is one of the top cities in the nation for tourists, with a seemingly endless list of attractions, things to do and see. In the immediate area of the Staples Center, LA Live is located right across the street from the arena. Located here are several restaurants, hotels and attractions, including the Grammy Museum and the Microsoft Theater. During the holiday season a skating rink is set up in the Xbox Plaza here. On the other side of the Staples Center is the Los Angeles Convention Center. For visiting fans looking for a place to stay while in town for a Clippers game, there are numerous choices within walking distance of the arena. Fans 5 In other parts of the country fans often derisively refer to the late to arrive and early to leave fans of Los Angeles teams. While there is some truth to this reputation, not all fans at the Staples Center fit this description. The Clippers have marketed themselves to the working-class basketball fans of southern California, and the crowd in attendance reflects these efforts. You are more likely to see families and to hear multiple languages spoken at a Clippers game than at a Lakers game. Thus far in the 2019-20 season the Clippers are actually outdrawing their cross-town rivals. The Clippers are operating at 100 percent capacity so as of the writing of this review in early February, placing them solidly in the top ten in the NBA. Access 4 First things first, the mythical Los Angeles traffic is real. No matter where you may be coming from, give yourself some extra time to arrive at the Staples Center. Located adjacent to the Los Angeles Convention Center and the Interstate 10/Route 110 interchange, the facility is fairly easy to get to, traffic notwithstanding. Staples Center’s location downtown ensures that there is plenty of parking nearby. There are over 10,000 parking spots within a ten-minute walk of the arena. For fans looking to avoid the hassle of LA traffic, public transportation is convenient to the area. The Metro Rail Pico Station is a short walk from the facility and several Metro Bus lines have stops near the Staples Center. Complete driving, parking and public transportation information can be found here. There are four main entrances to the Staples Center, all of which empty onto the spacious main concourse. Escalators lead up to the club level and upper concourse. Restrooms are plentiful, clean and spacious. Vomitories lead fans from the main concourse to the seating bowl. Fans in the 100 level walk down to their seats, fans in the 200 level walk up. On the 300 level, fans enter near the bottom of their sections. As is the case in many arenas, the seats in the upper level are very tight. If you are of a large frame, be prepared to have to squeeze into these very narrow seats with poorly positioned cup holders. Even though some of the upper level seats are far from the action, all seats have good views of the court. Return on Investment 4 The Clippers present themselves as a more affordable option to the Lakers. Still, this is Los Angeles, which means that you may have to pay to get the seats you want. The Clippers use variable pricing, meaning weekend and marquee games will cost more than weekday games. On average, upper level seats begin at $45 while lower level seats starting at $117. There are bargains to be found on the secondary market. In fact, when Stadium Journey visited the Staples Center on a weekday game against Sacramento, we were able to secure seats in the lower part of the upper deck for seven dollars. Parking in the lots and garages around the Staples Center generally range in price from $15-25. Concession prices are on the high side, but not out of line with other major facilities across the NBA. A great way to save some money on getting to the Staples Center as well as to avoid the hassle of LA traffic is to use the Metro to get to the arena. A one-way fare is just $1.75, with a day pass priced at seven dollars. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the great gameday and other arena staff. The team is clearly trying to present themselves as an alternative to the traditional, stuffy Lakers. Staff members have fun with the gameday presentation, with lots of giveaways and interaction with the fans. An additional extra point is awarded for the Buffalo Braves merchandise available in the Pro Shop. Final Thoughts It’s tough sledding when you’re the third tenant in a facility. Despite the fact that the Clippers are finally achieving some success and are gaining a foothold in the crowded Los Angeles basketball market, the Staples Center does not feel like home to this star-crossed franchise. While they can’t possibly compete with the Lakers in terms of history and tradition, at least for this year, the Clippers are on equal footing with their cross-town rivals on the court. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.