Image Courtesy of Orlando City Baseball Dreamers LLC An Orlando group led by Orlando Magic co-founder Pat Williams is pushing for a Major League Baseball franchise in Orlando. First announced in 2019, the Orlando Dreamers would be either an MLB expansion franchise or a relocated Tampa Bay Rays team situated right in the heart of Orlando's tourism corridor. Williams unveiled plans for a 45,000-seat stadium complex, loaded on a 35+ acre tract of land across the street from SeaWorld Orlando, next to their Aquatica waterpark. Situated off International Drive near the intersection of I-4 and SR-528, the site would also include 6,700 parking spaces in garages as well as office spaces and a 1,000-room hotel. The stadium would also have a walkover bridge to connect to a proposed SunRail station at the adjacent Orange County Convention Center. Image Courtesy of Orlando City Baseball Dreamers LLC The timing of the announced proposal comes after the Oakland Athletics announced they would be moving to Las Vegas to a new stadium there. Tampa Bay continues to hang in the balance with several stadium proposals having fallen through over the past few years. "This market is growing rapidly and growing in all four directions. They tell us a thousand people a day are moving to Central Florida and that doesn't take into account that this year there'll be 80 million visitors," Williams said. "If we do this, [Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings] said, this ballpark has to be a tourist attraction unto itself. He said people from around the world are going to have to put this on their 'checklist.'" Williams' group filed an official motion with Orange County, Florida to request funding for the stadium. Funding would come from a mix of public and private money. The initial price tag for the project sits at $1.7 billion, with $700 million coming from private funding. The remaining $975 million would be funded by a 30-year municipal bond paid for by Orange County's Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funds. No additional funding for the stadium or its daily operation would be required or requested from government sources beyond this initial requested investment. "This stadium would make us the leading candidate for the next MLB franchise. Best media market, best stadium, best location...we have everything here in Orlando," said Williams. "You don't get many chances to add a professional sports franchise to your community. If we don't act now, we may never have this opportunity again." A report by JLL, a national professional services firm hired by the Williams group, states that construction would result in 20,000 jobs and boost the region's economy by $2.7 billion. Once finished, the stadium would increase jobs by 25,000 and generate an annual economic output of $1.16 billion per year to Orange County. Potential growth includes additional events at the stadium, including potential spring training games. “Orlando has proven in the years since the Magic began playing in 1989 that it is every bit a big league sports town,” said Williams. “The Orlando Magic is as popular as ever, soccer fans have embraced the Orlando City Lions, and now it’s time to step up to the plate and make baseball happen, too." Image Courtesy of Orlando City Baseball Dreamers LLC

You know when a movie draws to a close, the happy ending unfolds, and the credits are about to roll? There’s that realisation of a critical loose end that’s not yet been tied up, will it be revealed? or will you always be left wondering? As the story of Wrexham AFC’s 22/23 promotion season concluded, Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney voiced their hopes that Notts County, their season-long nemesis, would follow them up into the Football League. 21 days later, at the Play Off Final, we would finally find out the ending. Notts County nicknamed the Magpies or just ‘pies’, had found themselves in a difficult position. 107 points, winning 32 games, and losing only three, but no automatic promotion. This isn’t any old promotion either. The scramble to leave the highest tier of English football’s ‘non-league’ scene, into the professional ‘EFL’ is one of the toughest in football. The National League Promotion Play Off Final was introduced in 2003 and drama is guaranteed. Wembley was the host stadium this weekend and has now hosted 14 finals. 2022 saw a Grimsby win at the London Stadium and Hartlepool were the 2021 victors at Ashton Gate. Approaching Wembley Stadium, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Meadow Lane in Nottingham, which holds 19,841, was the venue for Notts’ play off semi-final where they beat Boreham Wood with a late equaliser and an even later winner. Chesterfield also had a thrilling semi-final win, eventually overcoming Bromley to reach the final, deservedly so after finishing the league season in third position. Chesterfield now plays at the Technique Stadium which opened in 2010 and holds around 10,500 fans. Their previous much-loved home was Saltergate, which was one of the oldest football grounds in England, notching up 139 years of use. Just 26 miles separates the town of Chesterfield and the city of Nottingham, the rivalry between the clubs isn’t just geographical, the miners’ strike in the mid-1980s caused tensions that simmer to this day. However, the atmosphere on Wembley Way was relaxed as 38,138 headed to their seats. And so, on Saturday 13 May 2023 at 3.30 pm, the final instalment of the story was played out. Notts County beat Chesterfield 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw, reclaiming their status as the oldest professional association football league club in the world, older than the English Football Association itself, and competing in League Two next season. Wembley Stadium Interior, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Chesterfield had finished 23 points behind Notts Co in the regular season, but the 90 minutes that unfolded made a mockery of that. Notts goalkeeper Sam Slocombe had a first 5 minutes to forget. First giving away an indirect free kick in his box which he smothered himself, minutes later he rushed to the edge of his box, fouling Dallas and giving away a penalty. Dallas brushed himself down and dispatched the penalty. Notts, now 1-0 down, were simply not getting out of third gear, with the match drifting away from them on a day where goalkeepers grabbed the headlines. Now it was the Chesterfield goalkeeper Fitzsimons turn for infamy as he awkwardly fumbled John Bostock’s 87th minute free kick, the ball trickled into the net to send disbelieving county fans wild… 1-1 at full-time. So, we were heading to extra time, as the story of the Vanarama National League 22/23 season refused to end. In the 3rd minute of extra time, the Notts defence backed off, allowing Armando Dobra to cut inside and curl an absolute beauty into the corner of the County net. Chesterfield fans celebrated their 2-1 lead, their excellent vocal support, which had been non-stop in the first 87 minutes, was back. No fairy-tale ending for County? All bets were off in the 108th minute as County was level again! Ruben Rodrigues shot into the ground, and the ball ballooned up in slow motion and over the stranded Chesterfield goalkeeper into the net, we were heading to penalties! Not before Notts made a late substitution, goalkeeper Slocombe was replaced by Archie Mair a penalty-saving specialist. Two saves by Mair gave Bostock the chance to seal County’s win, but to their fans' dismay, his attempted Panenka came back off the crossbar. Despite Chesterfield’s successful next penalty, Notts could still win it. Scott stayed calm, smashed in his penalty and the Magpies players and fans were in dreamland. Notts County joins Wrexham in the EFL, cue the credits. The Winning Pen, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey

The United States Naval Academy, in Annapolis, MD hosted one half of the 2023 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Quarterfinals, May 22 at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. There was two games this Sunday in Annapolis. In the first game, an intense matchup occurred between Penn State and Army. Penn State won with a 10-9 victory after a six-goal run in the first half. The second game saw Notre Dame taking on Johns Hopkins. The Fighting Irish won 12-9 and are going back to the NCAA Semifinals for the sixth time in program history, the first time since 2015. Penn State will face top-seeded Duke at Lincoln Financial Field next Saturday, with Notre Dame slated to play against Virginia. Duke/Penn State is at 12pm EDT and Virginia/Notre Dame is at 2:30pm EDT. The championship game is on Memorial Day, 5/29, at 1pm EDT. It was a beautiful day at the home of the Midshipmen and fans from all 4 teams seemed to enjoy the atmosphere. We heard many people comment on Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium being the perfect location for this group of contests. 13,354 people were in attendance and according to Navy they have had 5 of the  top 10 crowds in NCAA Men's Lacrosse Quarterfinals history (since 1996 when it started being held at 2 predetermined sites.) The top attended game day was also at Navy in 2008 when they had 17,017 in attendance. Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium opened in 1959 and serves as the home stadium of the Navy Midshipmen college football and lacrosse teams, and was the home of the Chesapeake Bayhawks of Major League Lacrosse. The stadium is also the host of the Military Bowl. The stadium serves as a memorial to the Navy and Marine Corps; it is dedicated to those who have served (and will serve) as upholders of the traditions and renown of the Navy and Marine Corps of the United States. The thousands of memorial bench-back and wall plaques are a constant reminder, as well as the list of numerous battles involving the Naval and Marine Corps forces since the early 1900s.

Calgary is once again abuzz with talks of a new arena for their major sports teams. Scotiabank Saddledome, Photo by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey As announced on April 25, the province of Alberta has entered an agreement in principle with the City of Calgary and the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) to build a replacement for the 40-year-old Scotiabank Saddledome, as well as redeveloping the surrounding neighborhood. The price tag for this iteration of the arena is currently set at $1.22 billion. The announcement was made just days before the official start to a provincial election, making the timing of the press conference immediately a hot button topic in Calgary, the city where voting will most likely decide which party takes over when the polls close on May 29. This will be the third attempt at building a new facility and this one might have even more political baggage than either of the previous proposals. Politics and power have been at the heart of the arena deal since the first one was proposed almost a decade ago and, with each passing year, each successive failure to get the place built, and each cost increase, the stakes get higher. In fact, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith seemed to be suggesting that provincial money was tied to the results of the upcoming election, when she said, “on May 29, I’m hoping Calgarians give our [United Conservative Party] government a clear mandate to proceed with this arena deal.” So who are the key players in this arena deal and how did we get here? The CSEC are the owners of many of the major sports franchises in the city—the Calgary Flames (NHL), Hitmen (WHL), Wranglers (AHL), Roughnecks (NLL) and Stampeders (CFL). With all those teams, the organization wields a significant amount of clout in the Calgary entertainment industry. Further, all but the Stampeders play under the same roof, in the Saddledome, making them extremely motivated to get a new rink built. Calgary’s city council over the last number of years has been a mix of progressive and conservative elements who all agree that a new arena would be nice, but only if it makes financial sense to the city and not just to the CSEC. The provincial government has, for the most part, stayed at arm’s length in this conversation. In 2015, the New Democratic Party swept to power, defeating the incumbent Progressive Conservative Party, marking the first time since 1971 that a party other than the PCs had been elected. The NDP, led by Rachel Notley have a far more politically centrist agenda, with a greater focus on social issues and climate change, and were only able to hold power for four years. In 2019 the UCP, a new conservative party which is an amalgamation of the PC Party and the more radically conservative Wildrose Party, defeated the NDP, pushing an aggressively right wing platform. Through all of this, the province has stayed away from the bargaining table, leaving it to the city and the CSEC to reach an agreement. There is one other invested group that hasn’t really had any power in the negotiations, and that’s Calgary’s residents. There is a push among sports fans in the city to get a new arena built—particularly since Rogers Place opened in Edmonton, Alberta’s capital and Calgary’s chief rival in… everything—but many citizens have seen spending tax dollars on a facility for a giant corporation run by billionaires as a bad idea, so feelings have been and continue to remain mixed on the topic. And that brings us to the saga of replacing the Saddledome. Chatter about keeping up with Edmonton began in earnest once construction began on Rogers Place, with the City of Calgary caught between cries for fiscal responsibility in the face of increasing property taxes and an aging piece of infrastructure in the Saddledome, which simply does not compare to the shiny new rink the rival Edmonton Oilers now occupy. Calgary has consistently leveraged their need to provide value to its citizens, while the CSEC has maintained that they cannot remain viable by having an NHL franchise inhabit a nearly 40-year-old arena. In 2015 the CSEC came out with an ambitious project called CalgaryNEXT. They proposed a new multi-purpose facility which would replace both the Scotiabank Saddledome and McMahon Stadium, two stadiums that are both old and no longer up to the standards fans in the 21st Century expect. The building would house an arena for the Flames, Roughnecks and Hitmen to play in as well as a football field for the Stampeders. This facility would be situated on an underutilized piece of land to the west of Calgary’s downtown where a lumber yard once stood a century earlier. City Council quickly said no to this proposal. Calgary’s economy had suffered a massive blow in late 2014 when the oil industry collapsed, resulting in widespread layoffs and business closures, and there simply wasn’t an appetite for such an ambitious—and expensive—project. Noted Mayor Naheed Nenshi at the time, “There are very significant requirements for public funding beyond the fieldhouse funding, and there is currently no money.” The fact that site remediation to decontaminate the proposed location (the former lumber yard had left the area soaked in creosote and other toxins, all of which would need to be cleaned up before construction could begin) might cost more than the building itself was also a big factor in the quick dismissal of this project. Two years later, in 2017, the City and the CSEC began negotiations on an arena to be located next to the Saddledome, to the south-east of downtown. The talks eventually led to a deal in the summer of 2019. Unlike the previous proposal, this would strictly be an arena, with the football stadium/fieldhouse remaining an outstanding challenge to be resolved in the future. This new deal was not without controversy, being approved amidst the ongoing economic downturn and significant belt-tightening in the City budget. A number of Calgary citizens found the timing of deciding to go forward on a $550 million project like this to be problematic. The agreement to build this facility was inked in 2019, with a $550 million price tag that the City and the CSEC agreed to split. Then in July, 2021. the agreement was revised, along with a bulked-up $608 million cost. And the price continued to grow; per The Calgary Herald, the price had climbed to $630 million over the next few months. But the last one-to-two percent of costs, which the CSEC had initially agreed to pay for, were apparently a key sticking point, and more than the organization was prepared to fund. In the first week of January, 2022, the City and the CSEC chose not to renew their deal and, once again, the new arena project was dead. News of that deal collapsing generated mixed feelings, not surprisingly. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, leader of the UCP, placed the blame for the failure of the arena deal squarely at the feet of newly elected Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. Mayor Gondek quickly responded, saying, “If the premier is unaware of the process of how a land development project gets to the development permit process, I’d be happy to discuss it with him.” And that brings us to the present. Negotiations between the City and the CSEC have continued behind closed doors since the collapse of the last deal, and apparently at some point the province got involved, promising to add additional funds to redevelop the neighbourhood surrounding the new arena, in much the same way as the Ice District has grown up around Rogers Place in Edmonton. The total price tag for this project has ballooned to roughly twice as much as the 2019 deal, with the City’s contribution also doubling while the CSEC portion has only grown modestly (to $356 million) and will be repaid over a 35-year period. And then there’s the province’s $330 million contribution. It should be noted the Calgary’s City Council unanimously approved of the deal prior to the announcement and in spite of the much larger cost to the city. This is a surprising turn of events in a council notorious for rarely seeing eye-to-eye on spending bills. Making things more complicated, the details of the deal have not been released and won’t be until the weeks after the election. Consequently, the NDP’s Notley has refused to commit to following through on the deal—if they can’t see the specifics, they won’t just agree to it. Per Global News, Notley said, “All I’m doing on that issue is taking a very cautious and conservative approach that I think most Calgarians and Albertans would expect us to do to find out who’s on the hook for what kinds of elements in this plan and then make our decision.” Smith, who replaced Kenney as Premier last October, has used this reluctance to argue that Notley is against the deal and, by extension, against the interests of Calgarians. Per the Winnipeg Sun, Smith said, “Let me be perfectly clear with Calgarians. If the UCP wins the next election we will be moving ahead proudly with this deal. I guess we now know the NDP would not.” And why is this whole conversation so important to this election? Both the UCP and NDP have large areas where they can count on voter support. For the UCP, it’s the rural areas, who have consistently voted conservative for generations and which account for roughly half of the seats in the legislature. For the NDP, their stronghold is Edmonton, which is a more liberal, union-friendly environment that is more receptive to progressive ideas, with about a quarter of the seats. And Calgary remains somewhere in the middle, with a mix of conservative and liberal elements. Calgary, like Edmonton, controls about a quarter of the seats in the provincial government. So the party that wins the May 29 election will be the one that wins Calgary’s seats in the provincial legislature. Some financial concerns have shifted in the past year. The big increase in the price of crude oil that happened in 2022 has resulted in a significant injection of cash into Calgary’s oil and gas head offices and created a $12 billion tax surplus for the provincial government. In the past several months, Smith has been throwing around a bunch of that surplus as part of the pre-election campaign, promising millions of dollars of investment into various sectors. With Calgary expected to be the battleground where the election will be decided, it’s no surprise that the UCP have chipped in a bunch of money to a hot-button issue, in an attempt to sway voters. But that might have backfired. According to the Calgary Herald, only 43 per cent of people polled on the deal were in favour of the province contributing to it, while 50 per cent were opposed. The polling was even more lopsided in Edmonton where 61 per cent were opposed. So this move might actually cost the UCP votes. Moreover, that same Herald article notes that Smith was on record as being opposed to using taxpayer money to fund pro sports venues a decade ago, so some are calling into question her sudden shift in opinion right before an election where that money might buy them extra support in a critical battleground. So where does this leave everything? The next critical date is May 29, when the election votes are tabulated and we know who will be running Alberta for the next four years. If it’s the UCP, it seems likely that the arena will proceed (although the price of crude oil has been sinking, which may force them to start reneging on promised big ticket items). If the NDP win, they may or may not take a look at the details of the deal and approve of it—we won’t know for several weeks. One thing is for certain: the saga of Calgary’s new arena is far from over. McMahon Stadium, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey One of the most fun parts of watching indoor football, usually, is that any ball that leaves the field of play can be kept by the fan who catches that ball – hence there is usually a mad scramble for these loose balls, and fans will often crowd the first row behind the end zones, to try and catch balls as they slide down the net, or fans will sometimes line up in the upper rows behind the end zones, in case any field goals or extra point balls make it over the net. Fans are also warned to keep alert for loose balls, and often reminded that they can keep the ball if they catch it; some PA announcers have even been known to mock fans who try to give it back. You will also sometimes see stadium staffers retrieve loose balls that don’t quite make it into the stands, and hand them to a lucky fan (usually a little kid, not that this writer is at all jealous). Unfortunately, at the San Antonio Gunslingers game on June 4th, 2023, it was announced that due to a league-wide ball shortage for the National Arena League fans would not be able to keep any balls that left the field of play during the game – staffers were on hand to make sure the balls were returned, and before seemingly every kickoff or extra point, the PA announcer reminded fans of this fact; this same announcement was made over a dozen times during the game. This writer was not able to determine the reason for the shortage, nor for how long the situation might continue. I will mention, however, that I also attended a West Texas Warbirds game on June 3rd, and though no announcement was made about the ball shortage, I did notice fans returning the loose balls to staff members during that game as well. I also noticed that no official-size balls were sold at either game (only souvenir-sized ones), and none of the NAL team websites listed any footballs for sale (only clothing, hats, and glassware). It is unfortunate that the supply chain issues we all heard about during Covid, but most thought were over, may now have touched our sport of football – it is this writer’s sincere hope that the issue will be resolved quickly so that fans will once again be able to enjoy one of the best parts of indoor football.

Professional sports have been a part of life in Detroit dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. The Lions, Tigers, Red Wings and Pistons have brought both joy and agony to fans and residents of the Motor City. City of Champions, a new book by Stefan Szymanski and Silke-Maria Weineck, makes the case that sports have played a major role in many aspects of daily life in Detroit. They argue that in many ways, the city’s history with the four main major league teams is closely linked to political power, housing policy, race relations, economic development and financial stability. Each chapter of City of Champions uses a major sports event in the city’s history and links it to how it impacted the city in some way. The chapters are arranged in reverse chronological order, starting with the opening of Little Caesar’s Arena in 2020, and working back to the city’s founding in 1763. This is done to show how past sports events have built the city of Detroit as we know it today. First and foremost, City of Champions is wonderful sports read. The title refers to 1935-1936, when the Lions, Tigers and Red Wings all won the championship in their respective leagues. The authors point to this signature achievement as a force in bringing the city out of the Great Depression, and as an event where Detroit citizens forgot their racial differences, even if it was for a short period of time. The book also looks at the impact of the various team owners have had on the city’s development. Henry Ford was a pioneer in the automobile industry and created the concept of the production line in the mass production of cars. He also was the first business owner to provide healthcare coverage to his workers and to build parks and recreation centers for the city. Unfortunately, he was also antisemitic and a violent union buster who believed in keeping the races separate. The Ford family still owns the Detroit Lions today. Mike Illich made his fortune as the creator of Little Caesars pizza. He was responsible for building many of the sports palaces including Little Caesar’s Arena, as well owning both the Red Wings and the Tigers. As a result, he had a huge influence on zoning issues around the city. Obviously, Detroit is now a very unionized city. It hasn’t always been that way. Henry Ford hired thugs to break up and discourage union formation within the auto industry. In 1952 the Detroit Red Wings powered their way to win the Stanley Cup. Ted Lindsay, a left winger on the team, worked on starting a player’s association in order to have more orderly contracts and to provide medical coverage for players who were permanently injured and could no longer play. He was traded to another team as a result of these efforts. It was many years before the NHL had a player’s association in the NHL. Joe Louis was a sports icon in Detroit, a hometown fighter who went on to win several boxing titles. He also served honorably in the armed forces during World Wat II. He was celebrated in public for these achievements, yet he was shut out of any management positions with the major automakers due to the color of his skin. The Tigers were one of the last teams in the MLB to integrate their lineup. Another chapter of City of Champions investigates the loss of the Lions and the Pistons to stadiums and arenas in the suburbs as a precursor of white flight from Detroit. Detroit’s population has gone down dramatically as a result of both the downturn in the auto industry, as well as white flight. This left the city with greatly reduced tax revenues, resulting in Detroit’s government declaring bankruptcy. The earliest link between sports and the city of Detroit actually dates to 1762. At the time the British maintained a fort in the area. As a sign of friendship, the Iroquois Indians led by Chief Pontiac offered to play a game of lacrosse as a form of entertainment on the Queen’s Birthday Celebration for the British troops garrisoned at the fort. The ball used in the game suddenly was hit out of bounds towards the fort. This was a signal for the Indians to charge on the fort with weapons they had hidden away. In time, the Iroquois turned the fort over to their allies the French. As a result, Detroit became a French settlement. Today, French names on streets, in neighborhoods, and on car brands (think Chevrolet and Pontiac). Today, the city of Detroit’s flag still includes the fleur- de -lis, the symbol of Royal France. These are just a few samples of the links between sports and the city of Detroit. Sports lovers and history buffs will discover many more interesting stories of how Detroit’s history was shaped by sports. We heartily recommend that you add City of Champions to your reading list.

Photos by Robbie Raskin, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 TD Cricket Arena Brampton Sports Park 7605 Kennedy Rd S Brampton, ON L6W 4T2 Global T20 Tournament website TD Cricket Arena website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 5,000 Sixes Return to the Six When you think Canadian sport, hockey is doubtless the one that comes to mind. Maybe lacrosse. But its cricket that was actually Canada's first national sport. Given Canada's history in the British Empire, this may not prove surprising. Canada’s cricketing history is a long one, dating back to at least 1785, when players in Montréal played the first recorded game in the country. Canadian cricket really took off in the early nineteenth-century in Toronto, when the prestigious Upper Canada College cricket team played the Toronto Cricket Club. The series is still contested today. In 1844, the Canadians took on the United States in an international cricket series, decades before the famous Ashes tournament began, and historians suggest the Canada-USA cricket fixture is the world’s oldest international sporting series! What's new is the late resurgence of cricket as Canada's fastest growing participation sport. By the late-20th century, though, the growth of baseball in the United States spread to Canada, and supplanted cricket, at least as a spectator sport. Although occasional cricket events drew well (including a North American record crowd of over 40,000 at Toronto’s Skydome in 1989), baseball became the dominant bat-and-ball game in Canada. Historic tournaments and infrequent international spectacles maintained interest, but no national league existed to capture the nation’s attention. Finally, in 2018, Canada became the focus of the international cricketing community with the launch of the GT20 Canada tournament. The first two seasons proved successful, bringing world class talent to Toronto in the summer. Covid threw the league's future into doubt, but the 2023 edition has returned to the Greater Toronto Area and the future looks bright as ever. The summer tournament is now based out of 'North America's Cricket Capital,' Brampton, in the expanded TD Cricket Arena. 2023's edition features six teams from across Canada and boasts a reputed 150 million television viewers worldwide, helped by the addition of marquee players from places like England, Pakistan, Australia, India, and the West Indies. Cricket's continued boom in Canada seems poised to continue as the GT20 league grows and evolves. Food & Beverage 5 Hospitality has become a real standout at TD Cricket Arena in terms of both variety and pricing. Food and drinks are largely based out of a beer garden setup with mobile food trucks and tents, with a wide range of multicultural cuisines on offer. Beer-wise, the options are from Moosehead, with tall cans on offer for a very reasonable $6. If you're after a more extravagant experience, bottle service with spirits is available; Johnny Walker Black Label is available for $175. Amongst the non-alc options, fresh pressed sugarcane juice can be had for $8. Some standouts from the extensive food offerings include oxtail poutine ($18), Amritsari-style fish and chips ($15), biryani ($10), or Korean short ribs ($27). The concessions area includes tented tables for fans not wishing to dine at their seats. There are also roving concessionaires with snack items in the seating terraces. Atmosphere 3 The first thing to note is that although the venue is a permanent cricket ground, most of the setup for the summer is temporary. The large seating terraces, tented hospitality areas, food, and massive logistical undertaking will all be packed up for the year when things are done. Plans are afoot to construct a permanent stadium but the current setup suits its purpose reasonably well. The stadium itself is on the grounds of the CAA Centre, a multisport complex anchored by a hockey arena (former home of the OHL's Brampton Battalion, current home of basketball's Brampton Honey Badgers, and recent host of the IIHf Womens' World Championships). For the duration of the cricket, lines and lines of fencing separate event zones, parking, and closed areas from parkland and the arena. Within the stadium itself, the cricket pitch is surrounded on one half by tented private suites and corporate hospitality zones, and by covered seating terraces on the other. Half of the seating is the more comfortable Gold tier, and half are Silver bench-style seats. Ample shade is provided, which is a blessing on a humid summer day. Entrance is through a box office tent, with a large fan shop on the inside. Access to the seating is quick and straightforward, and views are great throughout the ground. Neighbourhood 2 CAA Centre doesn't have much going for it nearby, unfortunately. The complex is situated on the edge of an industrial area, next to a golf course and a highway. There are a couple shopping and dining options within walking distance, but nothing standout, and the walk through the industrial complexes would be pretty dreary. Not too much further afield, though, Brampton's charming town centre offers up great dining, drinking, and entertainment. Anchored by the Rose Theatre and the relaxed Garden Square, the neighbourhood has excellent cafés, restaurants, and little pubs. It's worth making the short trip to the town centre when visiting. Of course, the myriad attractions of Toronto are a short distance away if visiting from out of town. Fans 3 Attendance through the early rounds has been decent, averaging half-full or better, with fewer in attendance during day games and better crowds on weekends. All of which is to be expected. Crowd sizes tend to increase as the tournament goes on, and sellout crowds will be all but guaranteed in the final rounds. VIP suites and hospitality zones are very well attended. The fans gathered represent both locals and visitors who've come in to see cricketing stars in Toronto. There tend to be certain clusters of supporters who are more boisterous and beer-fuelled, with other quieter patches throughout the stands. The mood is friendly and fairly energetic. Access 3 Getting around within the ground is easy, with ample space to manoeuvre. Raised decking along the main pathways is helpful if the grass surrounding the stadium is wet. Washroom facilities are in the form of outhouses, but they are plentiful and clean. Lineups for those were not an issue, nor were food or beer wait times. Getting into and out of the complex is a little more difficult; long queues of cars are the result of only one entry and exit for traffic. The issue is compounded by ongoing light rail construction on major roads leading to the complex. Police are stationed in the intersections, but the situation is not good when a match lets out. The aforementioned construction slows down buses in the area too, if arriving by transit. The complex is located along Kennedy Road South, which has frequent Brampton Transit bus service, every 15 minutes or better. It's not a long bus ride from the Bramalea GO Station, where frequent, fast trains link to Downtown Toronto and points further afield. In the future, a light rail line will traverse Hurontario Street nearby, but work is ongoing for now. Free parking for 800 cars is now offered on the property, which means fans arriving early shouldn't have a problem. Return on Investment 5 Tickets for the earliest single matches started as low as $5, with single tickets to be had for select midday games from $10. This is exceptional value for any sporting event, let alone one where global superstars are involved. The average ticket range is between $20-$70, depending on seat selection and the match on offer. Day and weekend passes offer the best value, starting from $38 for midweek matchdays. Add in free parking, very reasonable beer and food prices, and of course the top-class action on the field, and GT20 tickets offer unbeatable value. Extras 5 Extra point for being the largest and highest-calibre cricket league in North America. Extra point for attracting marquee global superstars like Shahid Afridi, Colin Munro, Rassie Van Der Dussen, Alex Hales, Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, Tim Southee, and others. Extra point for bringing the tournament back after years lost to Covid. At one point during lockdowns, the tournament was played in Malaysia, then it was cancelled entirely, and now it has returned bigger than ever. Extra point for the work being done to cement Brampton's status as the cricket capital of North America, including legacy projects in the community in between league play. A final extra point for the enjoyment of being able to attend GT20 in its relative infancy, knowing this tournament could become a very big deal in the future, but is still young and energetic now. Final Thoughts GT20's return to Canada is a both welcome and critically important for the continued rise of cricket in Canada, where it remains the fastest growing participation sport. The chance to see global superstars in an intimate environment, at an accessible cost, on a summer's day... perfect for fans and anyone looking to dabble in the game. Cricket's renaissance in Canada seems well and truly underway and bright days are ahead for the game here.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Toronto Rock Athletic Centre 1132 Invicta Drive Oakville, ON L6H 6G1 Oakville Buzz website Toronto Rock Athletic Centre website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 750 What’s the Buzz in Oakville? In 1999 the Ontario Raiders moved from Hamilton to Toronto to become the Toronto Rock. Making their home at the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens until 2001, the Rock helped expand the reach of lacrosse in Southern Ontario and definitely increased its status. Under the ownership of Jamie Dawick, in 2012, the Rock would open a training centre for the team to house its offices and provide space for the Rock to practice. Going beyond the practicality of providing for the team, the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre, in the nearby city of Oakville has become a hub for lacrosse activity in the area. With two indoor box lacrosse fields and an outdoor turf field, the TRAC has become a centre for lacrosse at all levels. The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is the home for the Oakville Buzz of the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League. The top junior lacrosse league is viewed as one of the top providers of lacrosse talent to the professional National Lacrosse League. The Buzz moved up to the OJLL, which is Junior A level, from Junior B in 2019, after winning a Junior B, Founders Cup National Championship in 2006. Taking advantage of one of the top lacrosse facilities in the province, the Buzz provides a good lacrosse experience for Ontario fans. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at the TRAC are fairly simple but not insignificant. The typical snack bar experience is what fans can expect. Hot dogs, slushies, candy, popcorn and soda make up the menu for the most part. Sometimes pizza and other items are also available. Concessions will keep fans from being hungry during the game, but not replace a trip somewhere else for a pre or post game meal. Atmosphere 3 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is basically the training ground for the Toronto Rock of the National Lacrosse League. Complete with offices, medical and a pro shop, the TRAC is an innovative centre for lacrosse in the Greater Toronto Area. The exterior is attractive, with a clearly designated main entrance. Red and blue pillars highlight the grey exterior with plenty of windows for a sleek, smart look. That look continues as fans enter the lobby of the TRAC, which continues the Toronto Rock theme and markings but in a classy fashion with some tiled floors and walls. When fans enter for a Buzz game, there are temporary tables off to the right where tickets are sold as well as raffle tickets and a merchandise table. Entering the playing area, fans will immediately be struck with the notion that this facility was built for lacrosse. The TRAC features synthetic turf for a playing surface, similar to what can be found in the National Lacrosse League. Many of the other OJLL venues have concrete floors for the playing surface. The floor runs from west to east with seating on the south side. Four rows of simple step benches comprise the seating area, so the majority of fans sit on the last row to take advantage of the wall behind the final bench. The west side of the arena features a simple, yet effective, scoreboard, which is surrounded by the Toronto Rock championship banners and retired number and honoured coaches banners. The arena is well lit and very clean. On the east side is a balcony which links to the upper level offices. Although it is great to see all of the accolades for the Toronto Rock, there is little to no evidence that the Oakville Buzz play here at all. Even a simple banner acknowledging the 2006 Founders Cup Championship would be good. The gameday production at a Buzz game is very simple. Unlike the NLL, music is not used during play. The Buzz take advantage of the excellent PA system and use promotions such as 50/50 and raffles. The Buzz add just enough production value to make the game feel a little more professional, but at no point is the attention taken away from the action on the floor. Neighbourhood 2 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is located in Oakville, Ontario in an essentially industrial area. Oakville is located on Lake Ontario, between Hamilton and Toronto. The TRAC is east of the Falgarwood neighborhood in Oakville and there is not much in the immediate area. Cameron’s Brewing Co is just up the road. Other than that, fans will need to hop into the car. Monaghan’s Sports Pub is about five minutes away, or fans can head south to Downtown Oakville and find a spot somewhere on Lakeshore Road. As for other sporting options, Oakville doesn’t offer too much. Glen Abbey Golf Course is in Oakville and has been home to the Canadian Open on a number of occasions and may warrant a visit. Otherwise, fans may wish to head to Hamilton or Toronto for sporting options. Of course, the Toronto Rock at FirstOntario Centre would be an option if it were not off-season. As far as other tourist options, heading to the waterfront might be a good plan. For fans wishing to stay near the TRAC, the Holiday Inn is not too far. Fans 3 Assessing fans in the OJLL is extremely difficult. Attendance figures are not published. The game that was reviewed was a playoff game. The capacity of the TRAC is only 750, so the couple hundred fans in attendance made the game seem adequately populated. It is difficult to assert how many fans in attendance were beyond the “friends and family” category. The fans in attendance are fairly reserved and not over the top. Access 5 The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is located between the Falgarwood neighbourhood in Oakville and Highway 403. Getting to the arena is not difficult at all due to the proximity of the highway and the industrial neighbourhood the TRAC is in. There is plenty of free parking on the premises for fans who are driving to the game. For fans who wish to take public transit, there are Oakville Transit bus stops on North Service Road, near Invicta Drive. Fans should consult the Oakville Transit website for maps, schedules and fares. Inside the TRAC, washroom facilities are more than adequate for the expected crowd and getting around the facility is no problem at all. Return on Investment 5 There are not too many experiences that can be found for a $20 bill anymore, but the Oakville Buzz are one of them. Tickets for the Buzz go for $15 per adult. Students and seniors get in for $10. Parking is free and concession prices are decent. The product on the floor is exciting and fun. The math works out for the fan in this case for sure. Extras 2 An extra mark for the TRAC providing a hub for lacrosse. A clear benefit to promote the game. An extra mark for expanding the Toronto Rock brand, giving junior players something to strive for each game. Final Thoughts Checking out some OJLL lacrosse action and the Oakville Buzz is a great way for fans to catch the next generation of lacrosse professionals during the summer months. The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre offers a professional facility that is a real advantage for the players who play there. If you were wondering what’s the buzz in Oakville, now you know to see for yourself. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Griffith Generals 600 N Wiggs St. Griffith, IN 46319 Griffith Generals website Griffith Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 500 Green & Gold for Griffith Generals Griffith High School’s baseball stadium is the home of the Griffith Generals of the Northern League. The summer collegiate team had played in Joliet, Illinois, for the past few years before making the move before the 2023 campaign. The relocation moves the club closer to other members in Northwest Indiana, locally known as The Region. The selection of Griffith High School was based on Assistance Principal Brian Jennings, who was the school’s former head coach and had been involved with the league in the past. The Generals were formed in 2018 and are entering their sixth season in the league. They won the league championship in 2021 and made the playoffs in 2022. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand is open for General games. The menu options include hot dogs, Polish sausage, nachos, pretzels, candy, popcorn, chips, and pop. The prices range from $1 to $3 and are enough to snack on during a ball game. Since this is a high school baseball field, there are no alcoholic beverages served. Atmosphere 3 The Generals play at a small, 500-seat high school stadium that features two aluminum sets of bleachers with a concession and press box directly behind home plate. The area behind the concession stand offers picnic tables and borders the softball field. The setup creates an opportunity for an atmosphere that is grassroots. There is a PA announcer, music played between innings, and announcements made for the concession stand. Kids who retrieve a foul ball and earn a dollar when returned and a small ticket both at the entrance of the stadium provides information about the team. The atmosphere is laid back with the focus on baseball. There are not any in-between inning promotions, mascots, gimmicks, or over-the-top announcements for local companies. Player banter can be heard from the respective dugouts and when they are on deck. Player uniforms are vibrant gold and yellow and feature slashes through the number zero. Neighborhood 4 The high school is in a residential area of Griffith, Indiana, but a few miles away from the busy US-41, where a myriad of shops, retail chains, and malls exist. The average fan will find almost everything they want in these various spots. Sophia's Pancake House, Kui Korean BBQ, Theo's Steak & Seafood, and Highland Gyros are on US-41, A KA Indianapolis Blvd. The Blue Top Drive-In is a throwback to the early 1960s that features burgers, fries, shakes, and a few muscle cars. It is a great spot for families. The Highland Grove Shopping Plaza offers a variety of regional chains that include Chipotle, Panda Express, Dave's Hot Chicken, Noodles & Company, Tomato Bar Pizza Bakery, and Naf Naf Grill. Lou Malnati's is home to Chicago-style deep-dish and thin-crust pizza. Fans 2 There are few supporters in the stands at the Generals game. Many are friends and family members of the players on the field. However, with enough time and promotion, more fans might make their way to ball games during the summer months in The Region. Access 4 Griffith High School is south of I-94, east of US-40, and west of I-65. The ballpark is easily accessible by car in every direction. The parking lot is down the left field line and there is plenty of room to move around once inside the stadium. Return on Investment 2 The price of a ticket is $7, kids/veterans/seniors are $5, and children under 5 years old are free. T-shirts are $12 and $15 and ball caps are $25. The food prices range from $1-$3. It is affordable baseball for the entire family, and the gameday atmosphere is better than a few other fields in the area. Extras 2 Griffith Ball Field earns a point for selling team merchandise and offering kids a buck for returning foul balls. Final Thoughts Griffith Ball Field is a nice place for a Northern League franchise. Ownership has provided a nice backdrop for a game and perhaps that will improve in the future years with a little more game day production and promotion. Right now, if your focus is on the game, this is a nice escape during the summertime. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Las Vegas Ballpark 1650 S Pavilion Center Dr Las Vegas, NV 89135 Las Vegas Aviators website Las Vegas Ballpark website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 10,000 We Bet You'll Love This Ballpark Las Vegas Ballpark opened in 2019, as the new home of the rechristened Las Vegas Aviators. The team is the AAA affiliate of the Oakland A’s, and they play in the Pacific Coast League. The stadium has two levels, a concourse level with the main seating bowl, and a club level, which includes 22 suites as well as a lounge and the press box. The capacity of the ballpark is 10,000, including 8,500 fixed seats, 500-600 spots on the berm, and 1,000 in the suites, club seats, and party decks. The team, the ballpark, and even the surrounding community are owned and developed by the Howard Hughes Corporation. This is important to remember, as nearly all aspects of the club and stadium relate in some way to the late billionaire Howard Hughes, who was heavily involved in the aviation industry. He was a designer of planes, raced planes as a hobby, and owned several airlines at some point in his lifetime. His company is also the largest developer in the Las Vegas Valley. The name of the team reflects Mr. Hughes’ passion for aviation. It is also a nod to Las Vegas being the home of the huge Nellis Air Force Base. Many design elements suggest a link to aviation. If viewed from the outfield, the stands around the infield form the general outline of a plane. The press box suggests the cockpit, with the stands going out to left and right fields serving as the wings. We’ll be pointing out the other aviation references in the appropriate sections of this review. Food & Beverage 4 Las Vegas is known as a foodie heaven, with many celebrity chefs setting up shop in the city. The lineup of food and beverage options at Las Vegas Ballpark reflects that, with a wider, and more diverse menu than you would typically find in a minor league ballpark. Fans with a taste for Latin foods can enjoy Crunch Time Nachos, BBQ Mexicana, and Home Run Tacos. The Grill on First and Third offers burgers, chicken tenders, club sandwiches, and veggie burgers. Custom Hog Dogs serves gourmet hot dogs with sophisticated toppings. Frozen treats are available at Chillout, while Lea Lara’s Bananas offers frozen banana creations. Finally, Flight Deck Burgers offers both gourmet burgers as well as gluten-free options. The Hangar bar is on the outfield concourse next to the pool. It serves a wide variety of craft brews. Fans are allowed to bring one sealed plastic water bottle into the park to deal with the hot temperatures. Atmosphere 4 Las Vegas Ballpark fits in seamlessly with its surroundings. The two backdrops to the park are the Red Rocks Mountains on one side and the lights of the Las Vegas Strip on the other. The exterior of the park and many of the interior elements come in hues of burnt orange and rust red. This reflects the colors of the mountains in the distance but also is suggestive of the brilliant sunsets the area experiences. On the other side, the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” mantra is reflected in the design of the signage on the stadium's interior and exterior. Other segments of the park salute the party image of the area, with numerous bars, group party areas, and even a pool perk that is available to large groups at the games. As you would expect, a stadium in Las Vegas would have a top-of-the-line electronics package. The lighting and sound systems at Las Vegas Ballpark will not disappoint you. In addition, the video board at the ballpark is the largest in the MiLB, measuring a whopping 31 feet tall and 126 feet across. Neighborhood 5 Las Vegas Ballpark is in the planned community of Summerlin. Parts of Summerlin are located within the Las Vegas city limits, while other parts lie in unincorporated Clark County. Like everything else associated with the ballpark, Summerlin is a product of the Howard Hughes Corporation. The ballpark is located next door to Downtown Summerlin, a shopping district consisting of 125 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Among the amenities in this area are Frankie’s Uptown, a bar/restaurant that is a popular postgame watering spot, Pieolgia Pizzeria, and Sports Town, which offers jerseys and other items from more than 100 sports teams in the MLB, NHL, NBA, and NFL. Summerlin is also home to the Red Rock Casino and Resort, which is two blocks from the ballpark. It is important to hold on to your digital ticket from the Aviators ballgame, as it gets you a discount at many of the merchants and restaurants in Summerlin. Fans 3 Las Vegas Ballpark offers several fan-friendly promotions regularly. This includes Bark in the Park once a month, Thursdays are $2 Beer Night, Fireworks occur on Fridays, and Sundays are Las Vegas Stars Throwback Days. Once a month the team becomes their alternate identity of Reyes de Plata (Silver Kings) to recognize the large Hispanic population in the Las Vegas area. By the way, Aviator season ticket holders are known as “Frequent Flyers.” Access 5 Summerlin and the Aviators ballpark are easily accessed from Las Vegas via Beltway 215. Once you arrive, there are three parking lots with 2,500 spaces surrounding the ballpark. There is also a regular bus service provided by the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) to the area from downtown Las Vegas. There is an RTC bus stop right outside of Las Vegas Ballpark. Bike racks are also available at the stadium. Once you arrive at the ballpark, it is easy to get into and around. There are three main gates located around the park, with multiple lanes at each gate. Gates open one hour before the first pitch. Las Vegas Ballpark has a 360-degree concourse, making it easy to get anywhere inside the venue. Signage for aisles and different services is excellent. The rideshare pickup and delivery area is located at the Dining Arroyo in Downtown Summerlin. Return on Investment 3 There are four main price points for tickets to an Aviator game. The lowest-priced tickets are $13 for the berm area in the outfield. There is a small seating area atop the outfield wall in the left field priced at $18. Infield seats are priced at $25. Seats behind the plate are $37 but are completely sold out for the season. Seats may be available in this section on the secondary market. The food and beverage prices vary depending on which stand you purchase your food at. The Classics stand offers your typical ballpark menu and has the least expensive food. It also offers a Hungry Hotshots package for kids that includes a hot dog, apple slices, potato chips, and a drink for $8. The chef-driven concessions are the most expensive. Parking is free in any of the ballpark parking lots. Extras 4 The seats at the ballpark are made of mesh material. This keeps the seats cooler than a solid material, as air can circulate through them. This is particularly important, as Las Vegas can experience extremely hot temperatures during the summer. 2023 is the 40th anniversary of professional baseball in Las Vegas. There are numerous events surrounding this anniversary throughout the season, with salutes to the Aviators’ predecessors, the Stars and the 51s, as well as the current team. The Aviators have two mascots, Spruce Goose, and the Aviator. The Goose is a reference to a wooden plane that Howard Hughes designed, built, and flew. It only flew once, as the spruce wood it was built out of was too heavy for the plane to gain any altitude. The Aviator is more symbolic, as he suggests an aviator in the military, with his crash helmet and reflective goggles. Among the ballplayers who have worn a Las Vegas uniform on the way to the MLB are Pete Alonso, Jacob DeGrom, Jesse Chavez, and David Ross. Final Thoughts The Aviators are taking Las Vegas’ elevated standards for hospitality seriously.

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Michelob Ultra Arena 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 Las Vegas Aces website Michelob Ultra Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 12,000 All In The Michelob ULTRA Arena is a 12,000-seat sports and entertainment venue at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. It opened as the Mandalay Bay Events Center in 1999, before changing its name as a part of a naming rights agreement in 2021. Since 2018 the arena has served as the home of the Las Vegas Aces of the WNBA. The Aces were previously the San Antonio Stars before moving to Nevada. The Aces play in the Western Conference of the WNBA. The team has been a regular in the playoffs since moving to Las Vegas, including two trips to the WNBA Finals. The Aces won the 2022 WNBA title in a four-game sweep over the Connecticut Sun. The arena also hosted the 2019 and 2023 WNBA All-Star Game. The Aces are one of two WNBA teams that play in an arena attached to a casino. The other team is the Connecticut Sun, who play at the Mohegan Sun Arena. Food & Beverage 3 It is nearly impossible to starve or lose weight in Las Vegas, as food is ever-present, and in large servings. Even before you get to the arena itself, you’ll be passing some very tempting restaurants. However, this is a review of the arena’s food options… so here is what you can expect. There is nothing unique about the food and beverage options at the Michelob Ultra Arena. It offers the typical arena foods including hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, BBQ, and dessert items like snow cones, soft serve ice cream, and mini donuts. Beverages start at $14, and they serve Budweiser products. All concessions at Michelob Ultra Arena are done through either permanent stands or roving carts along the concourse. We suggest getting something from Slice of Vegas either before or after an Aces game. They offer an extensive menu of pizzas at very reasonable prices. It is in the Shoppes at Mandalay Place. Atmosphere 4 This is Las Vegas, so you are sure to be entertained at an Aces game. The team introductions are quite a spectacle, and that’s just the beginning of the show. Entertainment during breaks in the action is provided by the High Rollers Dance Team and the antics of Bucket$, the team’s desert jackrabbit mascot. Fans shout out the word “Night” during the National Anthem. This has become a Las Vegas tradition at all sports activities in the city since the arrival of the Vegas Golden Knights of the NHL. Even though the capacity of the Michelob ULTRA Arena is listed at 12,000, it feels much more intimate than that. Most of the seating is at the lower level, providing you with an up-close view of the action. The electronics package at the arena is top of the line, as the sound system and the lighting are frequently used for concerts and other types of shows. Neighborhood 5 The Mandalay Resort and Casino is located at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip. It is located just 2.5 miles from the city’s McCarran International Airport. The immediate neighborhood of the Michelob ULTRA Arena is the Mandalay Resort and Casino itself. There is plenty to do in the Resort, including shopping at the Shops at Mandalay Place, or having a bite to eat at restaurants including Slice of Vegas, Border Grill, and Wahlburgers. Attractions at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino include The Michael Jackson ONE show by Cirque du Soleil and the Shark Reef Aquarium. Of course, the Las Vegas Strip also awaits just outside of the Mandalay’s doors. It offers world-class entertainment, unique attractions, and great restaurants. If you are a sports fan, you can choose to attend a Raiders football game, a Golden Knights hockey game, or an Aviators baseball game. Of course, in Las Vegas, you can bet on the games as well (legally!). Fans 4 The fan base in Las Vegas is unusual in that most of the locals are involved in the hospitality industry and are actively working to serve you during your visit. However, the Aces seem to be very popular after work or weekend breaks for the locals from their work in the industry. We saw lots of families and groups of young people enjoying a night off with the Aces. Other than some high rollers seated on the floor or at midcourt, the locals form a majority of the crowds at the basketball games. You may want to people-watch the seats on the court, as NFL GOAT Tom Brady is one of the part owners of the Aces! The Aces draw an average attendance of 5,607. Even though that seems only half full in a 12,000-seat venue, it is important to realize that only a portion of the seats in the facility is used for Aces games. Access 3 We advise against renting a car in Las Vegas unless you plan to visit some outlying areas such as the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon. In addition to the wait and expense of getting a rental car, there’s the expense of parking at each stop and the hassle of Las Vegas traffic. Free shuttles are available at most hotels, and options including the Las Vegas people mover and Uber also exist. Upon arrival at Mandalay Resort and Casino, head inside and go right at Lupo and continue past KUMI and Stripsteak. Follow the walkway past Starbucks and take the first right down the hallway leading to the Michelob ULTRA Arena entrance. The arena has only an exterior entrance from a parking area and the entrance that takes you through the casino. Doors to the Michelob ULTRA Arena open only 30 minutes before tipoff, instead of the customary one hour. This results in some backup at the gates before the game. The concourse serves both levels of arena seating and can also become congested. The concession stands to get overwhelming at halftime, so try to get your food and beverages during other breaks in the action. Return on Investment 3 Tickets on the lower level of the Michelob ULTRA Arena carry a high roller price tag of $100 for seats at midcourt. Celebrity wannabes can also purchase a table for $238 a person or $500/$1,000 for courtside seats across from/next to the team bench. Seats in the 200 level are $10. Be aware that only certain sections of the 200 level are available for the Aces game. Parking is available at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center for $30. However, most people do not need a car during their stay in Las Vegas, as most hotels along the Strip provide free shuttles in between the Strip attractions. Extras 5 The Michelob ULTA Arena has also played host to numerous WWE events and UFC fights throughout the year. The Las Vegas Desert Dogs lacrosse team also plays their home schedule at the arena. They play in the National Lacrosse League. The owners of the Aces are Mark Davis, owner of the Las Vegas Raiders of the NFL, and Tom Brady, formerly the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New England Patriots of the NFL. Aces coach Becky Hammon was the first female coach in the NBA. She previously served as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs. Among the non-sports events that have been held at the Michelob ULTRA Arena are the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants and concerts featuring Journey, Ozzy Osborne, Luciano Pavarotti, and the Latin Grammy Awards. Final Thoughts We’re betting you are going to have a great time at a Las Vegas Aces game at the Michelob ULTRA Arena. Terrific basketball, Vegas-style entertainment during the breaks, and easy access to food, drink, and gambling add up to a very entertaining evening!

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Shoreline Field at Shoreline Park 800 Shoreline Dr Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Shoreline Field at Shoreline Park website Pensacola FC website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 500 Shoreline Soccer in the Breeze Pensacola Football Club was formed in 2013 as a soccer club in the National Premier Soccer League. The NPSL is a lower-level soccer league with 93 clubs as of the 2023 season. Pensacola FC competes as one of 6 teams in the Gulf Coast Division of the NPSL. The club has switched leagues several times throughout the years, swapping back and forth between the Gulf Coast Premier League and the NPSL, but in 2021 Pensacola FC exclusively joined the NPSL, while the club also has a women's team that competes in the GCPL's women's division. The GCPL is another lower-level soccer league with men's and women's teams competing in the Gulf Coast region. PFC is also affiliated with a local soccer academy, also called the Pensacola Football Club, where they train future players. The mascot for the PFC is a Pelican, and the club is sometimes referred to as the Pelicans. For the first 10 years the Pelicans played at Ashton Brosnahan Park, a soccer-specific complex on the north side of the city, but beginning in 2023 the club moved across the bay to the sleepy town of Gulf Breeze and took up residence at the brand-new Shoreline Field at Shoreline Park. Gulf Breeze is a small town separated by bridges that sit at the end of a peninsula, just across the bay from downtown Pensacola. To the north, you have the hustle and bustle of metro Pensacola, while to the south you have the popular resort town of Pensacola Beach. Gulf Breeze sits right in the middle of the two, providing an affluent suburban beach community with a small-town feel. Food & Beverage 2 There is one main concession stand located on the bleacher side of the field. Shoreline Field is part of a city-owned park, so expect the basic style setup like you would see at a local rec league baseball or soccer game. If you come hungry you can find the normal offerings of hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and candy, but not much else. The one plus is they will bring in two food trucks for select matches, although at the most recent game I was at they didn’t have any food trucks. Atmosphere 4 The City of Gulf Breeze has over 500 acres devoted to recreation in the city, with the centerpiece being Shoreline Park. Located right on the Santa Rosa Sound and overlooking the skyline of Pensacola Beach, the beautiful park takes up 133 acres of true coastal paradise. The park is separated into two distinct parks: Shoreline Park North and Shoreline Park South. Shoreline Park South consists of a boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic areas, and miles of hiking trails through the Florida wetlands, while to the north you have a beautiful state-of-the-art sports complex consisting of 10 lighted tennis courts, an 18-hole disc golf course, 2 beach volleyball courts, several outdoor basketball courts, a skate park, batting cages, a playground, 10 multi-purpose athletic fields, and a Community Center with meeting rooms and two indoor basketball courts. The sports complex, rec center, city hall, and library are also all located right next to each other, creating a tight-knit community. The newest addition to the Park and Rec's facilities is the opening of Shoreline Field, which opened in late 2022. The new field replaces an earlier field on the same property that was used to host the city's youth league football, soccer, and lacrosse games. The original field was damaged when Hurricane Sally struck the Gulf Coast in 2020. The new Shoreline Field was built using grant money and includes new metal bleaching seating, light upgrades, and a new, state-of-the-art artificial turf field lined for football, lacrosse, and soccer configurations. The Shoreline Field pitch runs east and west with metal bleacher seating on the south side and the team benches on the north side. The five sections of metal bleachers are 10 rows high, with three sets of bleachers designated for the home side and two sections for the away team. It is a small operation run by the staff during matches. The game day staff is run by academy students from the Pensacola Football Club. The staff does an excellent job at transforming a city youth field into the home of a minor league soccer club, however. About two hours before the match, I observed a couple of players and academy students hanging Pensacola FC banners on the bleachers and mounting flags all along the street leading up to Shoreline Field. In addition, the academy players took tickets, worked the concession stands, and even have a tent set up in front of the bleachers selling t-shirts and various merch. Neighborhood 4 The City of Gulf Breeze is a mostly residential community, located on a peninsula that separates Pensacola from Pensacola Beach. It is mostly a bedroom community with residents commuting to Pensacola, so there is not a lot here in terms of industry. Because of this, Gulf Breeze has a small-town feel where everybody knows everybody. There is also plenty to do in terms of recreation – around Shoreline Field you have the city's sportsplex, where there is plenty of activity going on in the summer months. Tennis, disc golf, skateboarding, a splash pad, batting cages, and basketball courts are just a few of the options people have. You also have the indoor rec center on the property, which hosts a wide range of activities such as basketball, pickleball, jazzercise, yoga, and a summer camp for kids. Across the street you have even more options; a boat ramp, fishing pier, two dog parks, a picnic pavilion, and miles of walking trails make up the property, with gorgeous views of the skyline and condos on Pensacola Beach in the distance. At all times of the day, you will see people launching boats and people fishing off the end of the pier. The walking trails are also popular for biking, jogging, and wildlife viewing, and provide two different trails through two distinct Florida ecosystems – you have the paved trail that goes through the Florida forest, and the brand-new elevated boardwalk that goes over the Florida wetlands, and empties to a small beach area. Live oaks, magnolia pines, and palm trees surround you as you walk down the covered pathway, which makes for a great place to stretch or get some shade before the match or during halftime. The city recently opened a new elevated boardwalk trail that traverses through the Florida wetlands, and you get to see how this area looked before development. Black Bears, alligators, exotic birds, beavers, and snakes are just some of the wildlife you may encounter on the trails at Shoreline Park South. For other outdoor attractions in Gulf Breeze, the Gulf Islands National Seashore has a 1,300-acre protected forest nearby that includes numerous trails, piers, and campgrounds with beach access, as well as an interactive learning center. Andrew Jackson Road, the first road in Florida, runs right through the seashore and includes an access point to Gulf Breeze Bluffs, a hidden spot known only by locals. The Bluffs include stunning views of Pensacola Bay from the north, and if you are brave enough, a 60-foot rope swing to the water below. Another popular spot to walk or ride a bike is Three Mile Bridge, which separates Gulf Breeze from downtown Pensacola – the lighted bridge just re-opened fully after years of repairs and makes for a popular evening stroll during the summer months. For restaurants in Gulf Breeze, you won't find much besides a few fast-food chains such as Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, and Whataburger, but just across the bridge in either direction, you have a ton of different restaurants. My recommendation would be to go out to Pensacola Beach where you have a ton of different seafood restaurants; you will find everything from five-star dining to local beachside restaurants, nightclubs, and hole-in-the-wall pubs – Pensacola Beach has it all. For hotels, Gulf Breeze has several chains just down the road, but for more a wider range of options, I'd recommend going to Pensacola or Pensacola Beach. Fans 3 Pensacola FC averages about 300-500 fans per home match and attracts a wide following of different people. When the women's team in the Gulf Coast Premiere League plays expect more fans than when the Pensacola FC men's team in the NPSL plays – this is because the Pensacola FC women's team is made up of a lot of local players, and the teams in the Gulf Coast Premiere League are within proximity, so matches often attract a large number of visiting fans. Gulf Breeze is also a very walkable city, so during the summer months, you will often find people out and about enjoying the Florida evening breeze. I found many people gathering around the field who just happened to be wandering by and stopped to check out the play going on. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for matches are $10 – because of the setup, it is possible to view the action from around the field without paying, which many people do. However, you cannot access the concessions or merchandise tent without paying for a ticket. I consider this a good return on investment, even though you aren’t likely to see any future World Cup players out on the pitch, but coming to Gulf Breeze is a cool hidden gem of a city to visit. Pensacola Beach is also just over the bridge, about five minutes away, so if you are looking for something to do in the summer months and like going to the beach, you can experience Florida outdoors and attend a sporting event in a coastal setting. I highly recommend visiting Gulf Breeze and attending a Pensacola FC match. Access 3 Getting to Gulf Breeze should be a breeze; coming from out of town shouldn't be an issue with the city located just over Three Mile Bridge from downtown Pensacola. Highway 98 is the main road that runs through the city, and the huge park sits directly behind Gulf Breeze Elementary and middle school, right off Highway 98 on the affectionately named Shoreline Drive. Unfortunately, the Pelicans play their matches during the summer months, so you will always be fighting beach traffic, as Highway 98 can back up substantially between the two bridges headed out to the beach; consider this if attending a Pelicans match. Extras 3 During the 2023 season, the Pelicans played a home match during a Blue Angels flight show on the beach – the famous jets have their summer training base at Pensacola Naval Air Station a few miles away. During the second week of July, tens of thousands of people congregate on Pensacola Beach to watch the Friday and Saturday shows, many of them camped out overnight and pay $50 to $100 just to park. Unless you leave early it is almost impossible to get out to the beach this weekend unless you have a boat, so instead of fighting beach traffic, you can watch the Blue Angels from Shoreline Park. The boat ramp and pier provide an underrated viewing area that only attracts a few hundred locals – during my visit, I was able to watch the famous fighter jets perform their maneuvers from Shoreline Park, and then I walked across the street to watch the soccer match. Another popular activity to do at Shoreline Park is UFO watching; Gulf Breeze achieved some fame in the 1980s when a local man claimed to encounter a UFO in his neighborhood. Maybe it was activity from nearby Pensacola Naval Station, but this stretch of the gulf has had hundreds of UFO sightings over the years, with many sightings at Shoreline Park. Local skywatchers often gather at the park at night in the hopes of a close encounter, so be looking up towards the sky if you take an evening stroll on the pier after a Pelicans match – you may even see a UFO. Gulf Breeze also has a large black bear population, so be on the lookout if walking along the Shoreline Park South trails during the evening, especially during the summer months. The bears typically do not pose a threat to humans, but I advise caution regardless, and you should never feed the bears. Another extra for all the world-class facilities and amenities that Gulf Breeze has provided the community over the years. The amenities are endless at Shoreline Park, with so much to offer you can't possibly experience everything in one day. For a small Florida town, the Gulf Breeze Parks and Rec Department run some of the finest indoor and outdoor recreation facilities in the entire state, so if you are in Pensacola and need a break from the beach for a day, then coming to Gulf Breeze and experiencing Shoreline Park and a Pensacola FC match makes for a great option.

Photos by Greg Johnston, Stadium Journey For the second year in a row, the Toronto Argonauts defeated the Saskatchewan Roughriders in front of sold-out crowds on the east coast of Canada. Last year, the Canadian Football League (CFL) “Touchdown Atlantic” game was held in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, which is a small and charming university town along the shores of the Minas Basin. The much anticipated and successful event saw over 10,000 football fans travel to Acadia University’s campus to experience the CFL in Atlantic Canada. This year, the Touchdown Atlantic game was held on the campus of Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. It was clear this event was more than a regular season football game between two of the league’s better teams, it was a showcase event for the continued pursuit of an expansion franchise in the Maritime region. The game was featured on national television, current players and mascots made time to engage with the fans, and former CFL stars including Mike “Pinball” Clemons made the trip to help promote the league. As the CFL attempted to promote the league to the local fanbase, the city also made a huge effort in promoting the Maritimes to the CFL and its traveling fans. Huskies Stadium normally holds a capacity of around 2,000 football fans, far too few to host a professional football game that would be featured on national television. The stadium was expanded to seat over 11,000 people with the use of temporary bleachers. Replicas of a lighthouse and fishing boat put a maritime flare on the outskirts of the field. The lawns that surround the stadium were used for pregame tailgating events, featuring food trucks serving traditional local fare, live music, and family friendly activities (including riding a mechanical shark!). Even the beer that was served was from Church Brewery, a Nova Scotia craft brewery from Wolfville. For an unusually large event in a traditionally small venue, the organizers at Huskies Stadium did a fantastic job planning the event. The campus is situated in a low density neighbourhood, normally resulting in traffic delays. But vehicular traffic flowed with minimal disruption, even though parking was in limited supply. Buses shuttled fans to-and-from major transportation nodes around the city. Once you arrived on campus, several well visible signs and maps guided fans to their appropriate entrance into the stadium. After getting through security, certain fans were given wrist bands to signify the areas of the stadium they were allowed. Fans either had tickets to the temporary bleachers, club tickets, or standing room only tickets which were situated off the south endzone. The matter in which the CFL and the city of Halifax proceed with a potential expansion franchise will be interesting to follow. Prior to the pandemic, citizens of Halifax have been debating whether they want a CFL franchise. Halifax already has a supportive fanbase for its local sports. The Halifax Wanderers currently lead the Canadian Premier Soccer League in attendance by a wide margin, and although the Halifax Thunderbirds of the National Lacrosse League play in the smallest venue in the league, they ranked 8th out of 15 franchises in attendance in 2023. Back in 2018, the ownership group heading the expansion team already named the team the Atlantic Schooners, which was the same name as the defunct CFL franchise in the 1980’s that never played a game. During the Touchdown Atlantic’s halftime show, CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie used a football analogy, saying Halifax is “in the red-zone” regarding gaining an expansion franchise. The CFL currently has nine teams, four of them in the eastern conference. It makes sense for a league with weekly games to have an even number of teams to balance the schedule. The biggest obstacle appears to be a lack of a suitable stadium. Two possible existing stadiums have been discussed for expansion. One is Huskies Stadium, the other is Wanderers Field with a current capacity of around 6,500. Currently the smallest CFL venue is the 20,025-seat Percival Molson Memorial Stadium, home of the Montreal Alouettes. The prospect of a new stadium in Halifax has been discussed prior to the pandemic, but a sparingly used stadium does not appear to be financially viable without other tenants. By the end of the fourth quarter, it was clear Touchdown Atlantic showcased the best in professional football to an area that is - almost - ready for their own team. The game sold out quickly, drew fans locally and attracted visitors to the city. Stay tuned for what comes next for the Atlantic Schooners.

The podcast crew discusses some reasons for baseball's decline, as well as some ways to improve the product on the field. Also, have the new rules had the desired effect? Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page. Join us live as we record every other Tuesday night at 7PM eastern at danlaw.tv.

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Spitz Stadium 2601 Parkside Dr S Lethbridge, AB T1J 4W3 Lethbridge Bulls website Spitz Stadium website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 3,000 The Lethbridge Bulls at Spitz Stadium Henderson Stadium opened its doors in 1924 in Lethbridge, Alberta, and has been the home of baseball in the small city ever since. A bricks-and-mortar grandstand was opened in 1975, just in time for the professional ball to come to town; the Lethbridge Expos of the Rookie-level Pioneer League played two seasons at Henderson Stadium before changing affiliation and becoming part of the Dodgers organization, an association they would maintain until 1983. Pro baseball would be absent from the Lethbridge landscape until 1992 when the Mounties, Pioneer League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, arrived. They changed their name to the Black Diamonds in 1996 and they played at Henderson Stadium until 1998. Replacing the Black Diamonds in 1999 was the Bulls, playing in the Western Major Baseball League. The WMBL is a summer collegiate league that has been likened to A-class baseball in terms of overall talent level. The Bulls have enjoyed a good deal of success, including four Western Division titles and a league championship in 2015. But they were also linked to tragedy in 2011 when Tanner Craswell and Mitch MacLean, two Bulls players, were murdered in a mass shooting. So, the Bulls have been through both great highs and great lows as an organization. Spitz, a local sunflower seed manufacturer, began a long-term sponsorship of the diamond in 2008, changing the name to Spitz Stadium. Since then several improvements have been made to the stadium, making the fan experience that much better. The most recent round of renovations began in the fall of 2016, with $2.9 million invested in upgrading the ticket office, the washrooms, moving the bullpens outside of the outfield walls, and a major refit of the grandstand itself, which was done between the 2017 and 2018 seasons. The new-look park is fresh and inviting, looking every bit like a 21st Century diamond. And the more open, airy feel just feels safer in this post-pandemic world. Food & Beverage 3 There are four concession stands around Spitz Stadium: the main stand in the lower southwest corner of the grandstand (which also doubles as the pro shop), a stand in the upper concourse, with the entrance just to the third base side, a small booth behind the third base bleachers, and a booth beyond the first base bleachers. Choices are fairly basic, including pop, peanuts, chips, candy bars, and, surprise, surprise, Spitz-brand sunflower seeds. There’s also an interesting selection of poutine available, from the basic (French fries, cheese curds, and gravy) to the fancy (barbecue chicken or taco)—this is a tasty option, and not outrageously priced, at $7.50. All four locations also have some alcoholic choices, including beer as well as harder stuff. There is also occasionally a specialty tent set up with some special treats. For example, local brewery Theoretically Brewing was serving their beer at the July 1 game. Atmosphere 3 It’s a relaxed atmosphere at Spitz Stadium, with the crowds seemingly out to enjoy a nice summer evening as much as the game, but there’s nothing wrong with that. This seems to be the crowd feel at all the WMBL parks. In case you haven’t heard, do be aware that Lethbridge has a reputation for wind. Lots and lots of wind. If the temperature is chilly, that wind will cut right through you if you’re out in the bleachers or the patios. You’ll be much warmer and more sheltered if you go for the grandstand seating. On the other hand, summer heat also tends to take the winds away, so hot days are generally just hot. The grandstand was renovated before the start of the 2018 season. A brand new concourse was built at the top of the grandstand, accessible by stairs on either end of the structure and an elevator on the west side. Additional washrooms have been added to the new concourse, as well as a concession, a patio area, and an open-air club suite. The concourse tunnel at ground level in the old structure has been taken apart, leaving an outdoor path around the exterior perimeter of the grandstand. The look overall is much more open and inviting, improving on what was already a nice experience. Some well-done landscaping and hardscaping around the left-field patio add a nice touch to the appearance of the stadium, making the fan experience that much more pleasant. Neighbourhood 3 Spitz Stadium is located a half block off Mayor Magrath Dr., one of the main arteries in Lethbridge, on the north end of Henderson Park, a huge green space that features a lake, a public swimming pool, Japanese gardens, and an 18-hole golf course. While there aren't a ton of dining options in the immediate vicinity, Henderson Park is lovely and you're only a 5-10 minute drive to just about everything in the city. Across Mayor Magrath Drive, kitty-corner to the diamond, you’ll find the Superlodge Hotel, which has one of the top-rated pizza places in the city right up front. Pizza King & Donair can whip you up a great pizza or, if you’re in the mood for something else, a donair, or shawarma. Only a couple blocks north, and across Mayor Magrath, you’ll find the Firestone Restaurant in the Coast Lethbridge Hotel. The Firestone is one of the more popular locations in town and can give you something a little more upscale than your typical sit-down franchise-type restaurant. Another block north of the Coast Hotel is the Sandman Inn, which features a Denny’s and an in-house lounge. Another two blocks north of the Sandman is the distinctive water tower which has been converted into a restaurant. The Water Tower Grill & Bar serves premium steak as well as a ton of other options that use locally sourced ingredients as a key focus of their menu. Heading south on Mayor Magrath you’re only a few minutes from just about every franchise restaurant in the free world, whether it’s McDonalds, Taco Bell, Boston Pizza, or Swiss Chalet. Fans 4 Some might prefer audiences to be a little more demonstrative but, while the crowd tends to be fairly sedate, they still cheer at all the right times, indicating that they are engaged and paying attention. The Bulls have some of the more dedicated fans in the league, drawing a little better than 1,000 per game in 2015, 2016, and 2018 (top three for per-game attendance in the league), and that’s pretty nice to see at this level of ball. Seats in the main stands are mostly occupied, with things thinning out as you get out to the bleachers, so it still feels fairly full most nights. The Canada Day game historically has the best attendance of the year, in part due to the city’s annual Canada Day fireworks display taking place right after the game at Henderson Lake, a two-minute walk away from the diamond, so if you’re looking to see what a sellout in this park is like, July 1 is the right day. Access 5 Access to Spitz Stadium is easy from all parts of Lethbridge. Mayor Magrath Dr. runs north-south and will quickly deliver you to either end of the city. Only a few blocks north you'll get onto the Crowfoot Highway (Highway 3) which can quickly move you east-west across town. Either way, you can easily get around Lethbridge in minutes. Parking at the diamond is plentiful enough for a typical crowd and it is free. Just be forewarned: the spots nearest the grandstand are very vulnerable to foul balls, so park there at your own risk. There is more parking around the Henderson Park grounds and in surrounding neighbourhoods so you should be able to find a spot to drop off your car with relative ease. Lethbridge Transit also runs buses up and down Mayor Magrath regularly so that's an option. Inside the diamond, it’s pretty easy to get around. Walking paths are wide enough to accommodate the number of spectators without any serious bottlenecks. The addition of the new upper concourse frees up space at the bottom of the grandstand, making it even more roomy. Return on Investment 4 Game day bleacher tickets are only $15 each; spots in the grandstand range from $18 to $25, depending on your location. If you purchase your tickets 24 hours in advance, that price drops to $12 for the bleachers and $15-$25 for the grandstand. You can get one of the Club Suites for $280-$450, seating 12-20 people. As a result, it won’t break the bank to attend a Bulls game, no matter where you sit. That’s very good value for your money. Extras 3 The recent stadium improvements have improved the fan experience. A new scoreboard with a big video screen offers replays and live action. Trees have also been added beyond the outfield fence to beautify the park. In Centerfield, a memorial depicting the names and jersey numbers of Tanner Craswell and Mitch MacLean, the two fallen players, is mounted on the wall. Souvenirs can be found at ground level in the west wall grandstand, right next to the concession. T-Bone, the Bulls mascot, makes his way around the stands during the game to entertain the kids and help with various giveaways and promotions. Final Thoughts There’s nothing like going to see a ballgame on a warm summer evening. The Lethbridge Bulls provide a nice opportunity to get out and enjoy quality ball at a great price. Spitz Stadium doesn’t necessarily have all the bells and whistles that a Major League park might provide, but it gives the fans a fun, almost old-school experience while still giving the audience many of the modern upgrades a 21st Century fan is looking for.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 Indianapolis Motor Speedway website Brickyard Weekend website Year Opened: 1909 Capacity: 257,325 NASCAR Takes to the Bricks The annual NASCAR visit to Indianapolis used to feature the fanfare familiar to Indy 500 fans when stock cars took to the track’s 2.5-mile oval. However, a change in date and a change in track layout means fans now get to watch the sport’s athletes race on the circuit’s infield road course. While not the same experience as the oval’s past races, this new event setup is no less exciting and enjoyable for fans, offering plenty of up-close viewing options, as well as a double-header weekend with the NTT IndyCar Series. No doubt, there is plenty to watch at The Brickyard to entice fans of all ages. Food & Beverage 3 The standard fare is available throughout the concourse and tracks infield thanks to various concession stands. The basics like burgers, fries, chicken fingers, etc. are all available here, as well as soda, water, and beer. Fans can also expect a variety of food trucks and independent vendors in the infield Pagoda plaza. Atmosphere 5 The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the literal definition of a motorsports mecca in the United States. Every inch of the track oozes with history – this in itself should be enough to elevate the track’s profile. However, thanks to the recent purchase of the facility by Roger Penske, various upgrades and renovations have made the track even better than it was before. A new LED display behind the Pagoda and other smaller displays around the track offers fans a chance to see the action no matter where they are. Renovated bathrooms and common areas are also featured in the latest upgrades as well. The stadium effect of seats on both sides of the track down the front stretch adds to the roar of the engines. Also, the sound of the bagpipes being played in the paddock by the famous Gordon Pipers fills the air during pre-race. It is hard to beat this historic facility for a flair and history mix. Neighborhood 3 Speedway, Indiana is a unique setting, as you will see both the past and future of the area in a few blocks. Located literally in the middle of a neighborhood, the IMS facility is massive, rising above the rooftops of the nearby homes. Across the street from the southwest corner of the track is Main Street; here, various restaurants and shopping destinations mix with newly constructed apartments and several IndyCar race team HQs. In addition, a mile west of the track along Crawfordsville Road are more shopping and dining options. Hotels are plentiful and nearby as well, with downtown Indy just a short drive east, and multiple hotels just west of I-465 and the track. Fans 4 The fans at Indy are among the most sport-knowledgeable in racing; you would be hard-pressed to find any others in the US who can top this. Many fans have been going to Indy for various races for decades. Even with decreased attendance in recent years for the NASCAR round at Indy, the facility still packs in a large crowd for the weekend – infield viewing mounds are filled for all races during the weekend, be it the IndyCar and NASCAR Xfinity Series on Saturday or the NASCAR Cup Series on Sunday, the track is sure to be packed full of hardcore fans. Access 4 To get to the track you can just follow the signs, literally – there is no shortage of signage on the way to the track. The nearest highway is I-465, with I-74 meeting up with it just north of the track’s exit. Parking on-site is plentiful both inside and outside of the facility, though many of these require pre-purchased parking passes. With that said various homes in the area also offer up their driveways for paid parking, as do some of the businesses nearby. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to the NASCAR weekend are relatively well priced; general admission tickets are incredibly low, starting at $20 for Friday and $40 for Saturday or Sunday. Reserved seating tickets range from $60-175 for Saturday and Sunday, depending on location. Compared to prices you will see at the Indy 500 as well as other races on the NASCAR schedule, this is an absolute steal. Extras 3 Cooling stations are available for fans throughout the property to help with the summer temperatures; offered inside city buses with AC, this is the perfect break from that mid-day sun. The track also has several event stores set up throughout the track, where you can purchase merchandise from the event and the track, as well as the drivers. Finally, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is located onsite in the infield and is open during race day. Fans of the sport will no doubt enjoy looking into the past and enjoying the history of the sport of racing. Final Thoughts To many, Indy and NASCAR should feature the track’s famous oval layout. However, the action on the track has been hard to ignore these past few years, with the track’s road course layout being the feature at the Brickyard. Fans still flock to the track no matter what is racing here, and the NASCAR weekend is incredibly affordable compared to other events. Couple that with the nostalgia factor that Indy injects directly into your soul, and it is hard to skip this annual summer stop on the NASCAR circuit.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey UCF this week announced several upgrades to the school's on campus football stadium, some of which are already underway. Leading the way is improved cell connectivity, thanks to newly installed MatSing lens antennas. Each antenna pod contains 50 individual concentrated antennas, providing better and stronger coverage to each area within the stadium itself. This will provide a stronger wi-fi signal for stadium guests. Fans may recognize the name as the same cell service antennas already in use at AT&T Stadium in Texas, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Raymond James Stadium and Amalie Arena in Tampa, and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The new antennas will feature AT&T to begin, with additional providers expected to be added in the near future. Perhaps the biggest and most visible addition to the stadium is that of new LED stadium lighting. The new LED lights meet the current NCAA championship-level play standards for both vertical and horizontal lighting. “Our fans will see an enhanced in-stadium experience and our broadcasts on ESPN and Fox networks will be championship quality based on the LED additions,” said Terry Mohajir, UCF vice president and director of athletics. The number of lighting fixtures will increase by 50%, and allow UCF to take advantage of the Dynamic Scene Control System. This adds the ability to add color and flickering lights to the game-day experience. The stadium will also add new lighting for entrances and common areas - installation of the new lighting system is already underway on campus. and will be completed before the team's home opener against Kent State on August, 31, 2023.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Capaha Field 627 Capaha Drive Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 Cape Catfish website Capaha Field website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 2,400 Getting Hooked at Capaha Field Capaha Field has been the home of the Cape Catfish of the summer collegiate Prospect League. The ball club arrived during the summer of 2019, but baseball has been played at the site by numerous teams dating back to 1894. The ballpark was first known as Fairgrounds Field and included three separate grandstands. The first wooden grandstand was built in 1905 but leveled by a storm in 1911. A new one was constructed the same year and enlarged by 40 feet. It would be replaced by the current structure in 1949. A new press box was added in 2006. The SE Missouri University baseball program has called the ballpark home since 1959 and added a 4,000 square indoor training facility on the right field side of the stadium. The St. Louis Browns and the Toledo Mud Hens held spring training on the site from 1943-1945 due to wartime restrictions. The ballpark is also home to American Legion baseball. The Capaha baseball team is the oldest amateur club that began playing on the site in 1894 and got its name from the CA-PA-HA Flour Company, which sponsored the club in the early part of the 20th century. The ball club has won 20 state regional titles with a 4th place finish at the NBC in Wichita, Kansas. A $1.8 million renovation plan changed the ballpark that included synthetic turf changes, sectioning off the road on top of the knoll on the right field side to make it the main concourse, adding a video scoreboard, a new outfield fence, new bullpens, and additional cosmetic upgrades. Chair-back seating from the now-demolished Houck Stadium was added to the grandstand in 2022. Food & Beverage 3 There are multiple food trucks at the ballpark parked up on the hill serving food and beverage during the game. Kenny’s Flippin’ Burgers is a local restaurant that serves smashed burgers and hot dogs. The Cape Catfish version has grilled onions and smash sauce with homemade ribbon chips. The Wat’s Knot truck offers pretzels, pretzel bites, cinnamon twists, and pretzel dogs. Simply Swirled is another truck that has 15 different flavors of shaved ice from grape, orange, wedding cake, and tiger’s blood. Coca-Cola products are sold, while the beer options include cans of Modelo, Coors Light, Miller Light, Yuengling Lager, Yuengling Flight, and Cape Catfish Common from local Ebb & Flow Fermentation. It is a Kentucky Common beer, AKA steam beer. It is a well-balanced beer with maltiness that creates a dry and clean flavor profile. Atmosphere 4 Fans enter the stadium at the main entrance behind the grandstand and on top of the hill. The Plaza Tire Entrance used to be a small road for cars but is now part of the stadium’s main grandstand. The tree line area is designed with tables, concession stands, food trucks, a merchandise table, and a small hill where kids run up and down. It is a carnival-like atmosphere on most nights and is good use to increase the atmosphere at the game. The main grandstand seats a little about 500 people and offers stadium seating. The grandstand features a logo of the ballpark and includes the emblems of all four teams that call it home during the spring and summer. Championship banners of the Catfish are on display, and old baseball bats are used as banisters in the grandstand. A few private areas exist, and include the dugout club seating area down the first base side of the stadium and the homerun deck behind the right field that has its entrance. The party area can seat people up to 200 and comes with food and beverages. The SEMO football team was the guest during our visit and provided a noisy backdrop to the visiting right fielder. The Catfish mascot can be found walking through the stadium giving high-fives, and posing for photos. A majority of the fans are found on the main concourse either on the hill at tables or sprawling out on the grass berm. The same can is for a few folks who watch the game from the road behind the outfield wall in the center field on top of another hill. They park their cars, pull out a lawn chair and enjoy the game free of charge. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is inside Capaha Park, which includes a fishing pond, a rose garden, and a disc-golf course over 39 acres in the southwest corner of Cape Girardeau. The area around the park is a mix of residential and commercial use and is near Southeast Missouri State University and Southeast Hospital. However, there are plenty of restaurants and breweries located within a mile of the ballpark. The restaurants include Mary Jane Bourbon & Smokehouse, Burrito-Ville, Kenny’s Flipping Burgers, and Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine. The breweries include Ebb & Flow Fermentation and Minglewood Brewery. Also, a mile from Capaha Park is the Mississippi River and riverfront. Fans 3 The fan interaction at the is community spirited, with families out for a day during the summer, baseball diehards enjoying a few innings, and kids just having fun running around the spacious concourse and hill. There are many with Catfish caps and t-shirts cheering on the hometown team. Access 4 Cape Girardeau is accessible off I-55 and is 115 miles southeast of St. Louis along the Mighty Mississippi River. There are numerous spots to park behind the outfield walls in the grass and dirt lots, along with neighboring streets. Once inside the venue, the main concourse allows fans to direct themselves to many vantage points and the grandstand. Return on Investment 4 Reserved seating in the grandstand is $12, $9 for adults, $5 for children 6-12, and free for kids under $5 everywhere else. Parking is free in the neighboring lots, and food prices are affordable. All cans of beer are $4, and the large tub of shaved ice is also $4 and perfect for kids to cool down during a hot summer day. However, there did not appear to be reasonable pricing for the ballpark staples of hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, and popcorn from any one of the food trucks. Merchandise includes an assortment of t-shirts and caps from $25 to $30, respectively. Extras 3 The Catfish earn points for designing a ballpark that stands out in the Prospect League. The Plaza Tire Entrance makes good use of the old road and turns it into a festive and lively concourse during game time. The beer prices are $4 and almost half of what you might pay elsewhere in summer baseball. Another point is the multiple banners hanging up along the concourse that add a nice touch to the stadium. Final Thoughts Capaha Field has an illustrious history of baseball dating back to the late 19th century, and the Cape Catfish continue that tradition in Cape Girardeau. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Fair Meadows 4145 East 21st St Tulsa, OK 74114 Fair Meadows website Route 66 Racing Fair Meadows offers live racing in Tulsa, Oklahoma for only two months of the year (June and July), so while a great venue, you don’t have much time to see it. Food & Beverage 3 Fair Meadows has some decent food options, enough to cover you for a few hours, but not as much as some other racetracks. There are a couple of stands outside that sell beer, bottled water, bottled soda, and snacks such as hot pretzels, peanuts, nachos, and cotton candy. The only substantial items (think burgers, pizza, etc.) must be purchased inside, which is fine, as the venue is not that big. Prices seem typical as sports venues go, with bottled water at $4 and pizza at $5.50, for example. The only branded stand is a Dippin’ Dots cart inside the clubhouse near the parade ring; the other stands are all generic. Atmosphere 3 There are several different seating areas around the facility – the parade ring where you can watch the horses walk around before the race is indoors, while most of the other seating is outdoors. Racing usually starts at 6 pm here, though, so you don’t have to worry too much about escaping the sun, as most of the outdoor seating will be under shadow by then. Some of the races here are very short, e.g. 300 yards, so those races will literally be over in a flash. Neighborhood 4 Probably the coolest attraction in Tulsa is Route 66 – a few miles from the track, but well worth driving down; you can even stop at an actual Phillips 66 gas station ON Route 66! While there aren’t really any hotels or restaurants within walking distance of Fair Meadows, there are plenty within a short drive, closer to the river and to downtown. Downtown Tulsa really impressed me with how clean and well kept up it is, with none of the worn-down areas (at least that I could find) that you will find at many big cities in America. Bok Center is also located downtown, home of both minor league hockey’s Tulsa Oilers and indoor football’s Tulsa Oilers – this is not a typo, they both have the same name. Note that the hockey season doesn’t overlap the horse racing season, but the indoor football season does. Fans 3 The venue gets fuller as the evening wears on, as people get off work and make their way over, so by the 3rd or 4th race you will see a lot more folks. Watching a horse race is not like most sporting events, though, where people cheer throughout the event – you will hear a few scattered cheers for certain horses near the end of each race, but mostly people are here for the atmosphere…and the betting. Access 4 There are practically no issues in term of access at Fair Meadows – you can park for free right next to the track, and getting in and out is a breeze. There are also plenty of different seating areas to choose from, so you can sit (or stand) as close to or as far from the action as you want. You can’t really watch the racing from the indoor seating, as that is just a few tables for people to eat at, or sit and peruse their programs, so it isn’t really designed for outdoor viewing. But there is plenty of covered seating outdoors, and moving around the concourse is not a challenge. There are betting windows on both ends of the concourse, and multiple food and beverage vendors, so lines will never be too long. Return on Investment 5 It costs almost nothing to go to the races at Fair Meadows – parking is free and there is no cost to get in, so the only thing you might have to pay for is a program (if you want to bet), and food/drinks if you want them. Otherwise it is free, so from a return on investment standpoint this is a stellar way to spend an evening. Extras 2 There aren’t really any extras to speak of; the indoor parade ring is a nice feature, and Fair Meadows is a clean, well-kept venue. But nothing else stands out – people are here for the ponies, and that’s it. Final Thoughts I would absolutely recommend a visit to Fair Meadows – this is a nice little venue where you can see the horses and racing up close, without having to fight the crowds. The only thing to remember is that many of the races are very short here, which closes the door on some of those thrilling come-from-behind victories certain fans may crave.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Culpeper County High School Baseball Field 1420 Achievement Drive Culpeper, VA 22701 Culpeper Cavaliers website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 500 Get on Your Horse and Watch Cavaliers Baseball The Valley Baseball League is one of the oldest summer collegiate baseball leagues in America, with 12 teams in and around Virginia's scenic Shenandoah Valley. The league has existed in some form for at least 100 years, although early records are spotty as to the exact date of founding and there are several conflicting sources. The Culpeper Cavaliers are the newest member of the VBL, having just joined this season. The Cavaliers play at Culpeper County High School, whose baseball field is not otherwise in use during the summer months. Despite playing in the Valley League, Culpeper is not actually in the Shenandoah Valley, as it is located east of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Food & Beverage 4 There are several concession options at a Culpeper Cavaliers game. The main stand, which also houses the team store, sells bottled water, soda, Gatorade, candy, popcorn, and chips. There are also other more substantive options available out of a food truck, including burgers, fresh grilled hot dogs, and chicken tenders. Excluding the food truck, which sets its own prices, nothing costs more than about $4, which is a great deal. Atmosphere 3 There are a lot of places you can watch the game from here in Culpeper. The seating area is built into a hill surrounding the field, with several sets of bleachers at the top of the hill. There are also a few rows of very widely spaced bench seating further down. Many fans choose to forgo these options and bring their own chairs and sit either in the shade of the trees at the top of the hill, or somewhere else on it. Be warned there are a lot of bugs in the grass, and if you do not throw away your trash quickly after eating, the ants will swarm. However, the ants do not seem to have learned to climb the bleachers at the top of the hill, so you should be safe there. Unfortunately, most vantage points will find their view of either the scoreboard or some part of the field obstructed by the dugout roof, so this rating does get downgraded. The Cavaliers do some activities to engage fans, including the pony race, where kids attempt to race around the field while riding inflatable ponies. The team leans heavily into the horse imagery here, with the sound of a whinny played over the PA system after a Cavaliers pitcher strikes out an opponent. The team even brings in real ponies for select home games. Finally, there are a couple of Valley League traditions that are worth noting. Your game ticket doubles as a raffle ticket for the chance to win prizes throughout the game, so hold onto it. Additionally, fans are not permitted to keep foul balls hit out of play, but can return them to the concession stand for a lollipop. Kids are constantly running up and down the hill to chase the foul balls to get their prize. Neighborhood 3 Culpeper County as a whole only has about 50,000 people, and most of it is very rural, but the area around the high school where the Cavaliers play is more developed than most other parts. Los Portillos Taqueria is located almost right next door, and if you head towards Business Route 15, you will find many more places including both chains and local restaurants such as Grill 309. Fans 3 Culpeper is the newest franchise in the league, so they have not had the time to build up a fan base that the other more established clubs have. A typical game will draw a couple hundred fans, with larger crowds on weekends usually. The Valley League is the epitome of small town ball, so there's a natural limit to how much any team can draw, and the Cavaliers are still establishing their fan base. Given a few years, they may draw even more than they are today, but they still manage to draw a decent crowd most nights. Access 3 Getting into Culpeper is relatively easy, although you will have little choice but to drive given this is a rural area. US Routes 15 and 29 split just south of here, and both provide easy access. Although they do have some lights, for the most part you can make good time. That being said, if coming from a major city you will have to do quite a bit of driving. Washington, DC is about an hour and a half to two hours away, and even if coming from another Valley League town, you will have to cross the Blue Ridge Mountains, which can be challenging for drivers if not doing so on an interstate like I-66 or I-64. Once you arrive here, signs will direct you where to go, although they are small and can be hard to see. Although the baseball field is at the high school, you are better off parking at the middle school next door, as that lot is closer than the high school's lot. Go all the way back and park in the corner of the lot closest to the high school. From there, you will walk between the two buildings to the baseball field. There is a small lot right next to the field, but it fills up quickly and is mostly used by gameday personnel, the elderly, and the handicapped, so you will probably have to use the much larger middle school lot. The hill is pretty steep, so getting up and down it can be a problem, especially since there are no paths so you will be walking on grass. Single-person men's and women's restrooms are available on the side of the press box opposite the concession stand. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are $5, as they are in most of the Valley League. Concessions are affordable as well with most items being under $4 other than the food truck, making a trip to a Cavaliers game an outstanding value. Extras 3 One star for the team store which sells Cavaliers gear. Normally it has its own tent, but occasionally it may be sold out of the concession stand. A second star for all the unique vantage points to watch a game here. A third and final star for the free programs at the entrance. Final Thoughts The Valley League is small town baseball at its finest, and the Culpeper Cavaliers are no exception. This is a new team that is rapidly growing its fan base, but they still manage to create a great experience for fans here. Given a couple years to further establish itself, a game here will be even better than it is now.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Savannah Bananas came to Indianapolis, Indiana, this past weekend and played in front of 30,000 people for the two-game series on their 2023 Banana Ball World Tour. Even though Mother Nature had other plans the first night knocking out the power to Victory Field . The skies would open up two days later to provide the canvas for all the wacky hijinks that are Banana Ball. The lines of people stretched around the perimeter of the ballpark with gunpowder gray skies up above. However, once the gates opened, the drops dissipated and the skies opened up for ideal weather for baseball. Tickets were at a premium and only Taylor Swift, who was performing at Paycor Stadium 100 miles away in Cincinnati, had a higher demand for tickets. The Bananas themselves have a waitlist of over 800,000. Banana Ball is a 2-hour version of baseball with nine unique rules. Jesse Cole developed the rules, which debuted in front of an audience in June 2020. At the time, the Bananas were members of the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League, but soon this madcap version of the game took off, and the team went around the Southern part of the country to play exhibition games. Soon, fans expected to see Banana Ball instead of the regular version played at the club’s home ballpark in Grayson Stadium. Soon, Cole decided to leave the CPL and play as a professional barnstorming team akin to the Indianapolis Clowns, House of David, and most famously, basketball’s Harlem Globetrotters . Cole was not hard to find at the game; he greeted fans entering the stadium from the centerfield entrance. Decked in his trademark yellow tuxedo and hat, he posed for pictures and selfies with the hundreds who walked through that gate. Soon, he was on the field introducing the team and its brand of baseball to thousands sitting in their seats or on the grass lawn of the stadium. “We drove down on Thursday night, had a flight tire, and then waited for two hours outside the stadium before they canceled the game,” said Julie Dorman from Carmel, Indiana. “We were not going to miss this game today.” The Bananas brand of baseball has its unique 9-rules that include fans making an out on a caught foul ball (there were two of them in Indy), no bunting, no mound visits, or players stepping out of the batter’s box. A batter can steal first on a wild pitch, and after ball four, the batter can run to as many bases, while all nine position players toss the ball to one another to get him out. The most interesting twist is that every inning counts. Teams get a point for scoring the most runs per inning. If the teams are scoreless or tied, that inning is even, and you go to the next one. The Bananas 4-2 by winning 4 of the 9 innings. There was never a dull moment from the time people entered the stadium. Music played over the speaker system, and club M.C. The Young Professor and The Man-Nanas engaged with the audience. Soon, players from the Bananas and their foes, The Party Animals, walked through the crowd tossing bananas and hi-fiving fans young and old. Among the promotions were players catching bananas from teammates in the stands, a boxing-style weigh-in with a dance-off, and the team's tribute to the Lion King - where a baby is hoisted while players kneel below. “This is pure entertainment,” said Joe Newman, who brought his family up outside Louisville, Kentucky, to see the game. “I am not a baseball fan, more of a soccer guy, but these guys entertain you for two hours with music and on-field gimmicks.” Fans decked in official team gear, with a few sporting makeshift t-shirts. I have been to many minor league games and have never seen quite the amount of gear worn in the crowd. The three merchandise tents had long lines throughout the game, with probably quite a few missing out on the action on the field. “We were in Detroit last night and found out we got tickets at the last minute,” said Dave Kenney of Muskegon, Michigan. “My son and I drove three and a half hours to Indy, and now it’ll be a 4-hour drive back to Muskegon, but it was well worth it.” Ask anyone that works for Stadium Journey, along with my wife and friends, and they will tell you that I never sit down for an entire game. That was not the case; I wanted to see what would happen next during each inning and decided to plant myself behind home plate in the suite level to get a bird's-eye view of everything on the diamond. There were two caught foul balls, several sprints after a walk, a person on stilts getting a base hit for a walk-off in one inning, a pitcher with a motorcycle helmet, several celebrations from the Party Animals outside of their dugout, a few backflips from the players, and free donuts handed out for the donut batter striking out. "It was the Harlem Globetrotters meet baseball," said Dave Buddenbaum, who attended the Friday evening game. "Both teams were talented and made the game fun." After the game, Cole and the players came out to thank the 15,000 people and met them on the grass lawn for autographs. The Banana Band played while Jesse signed more autographs and posed for pictures. Mobs of people surrounded members of both teams to get the elusive autograph and photo. The World Tour heads to Akron’s Canal Park for the next night for two games before a few days off before returning to Savannah for the weekend. The 30,000 people who attended games in Indianapolis were provided what had been advertised by the club through social media and word of mouth-baseball and show. The Savanah Bananas are not doing anything new in minor-league baseball promotions in recent years. The tinkering of the rules and limiting the time of play has created a new set of fans fevering for Banana Ball across the country, an impossibility in any structured league. As a result of the record crowds in Indianapolis, the minor league ballparks in this country will likely be replaced with larger major league venues. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Dodd Stadium 14 Stott Ave Norwich, CT 06360 Norwich Sea Unicorns website Dodd Stadium website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 6,270 A Future for Dodd Stadium Senator Thomas J. Dodd Memorial Stadium was built in the eastern Connecticut city of Norwich in 1995. Senator Dodd was a Norwich native who served two terms in both the House of Representatives and the Senate between 1952 and 1964. Dodd may be best known as part of the prosecution team at the Nuremburg Trials. Several teams have called Dodd Stadium over its history. The Norwich Navigators, the AA Eastern League affiliate of the New York Yankees, called Dodd home through 2003, when they moved their affiliation to Trenton, New Jersey. The San Francisco Giants then set up shop in Norwich, rebranding the team as the Connecticut Defenders in 2006. Facing steadily declining attendance, the team moved to Richmond, Virginia for the 2010 season. Filling the vacuum immediately was the New York-Penn League, which was looking to move out of their traditional footprint into more modern ballparks. The Connecticut Tigers were born and spent ten seasons in Norwich. The Tigers and the city of Norwich were victims of Minor League Baseball’s reorganization in the winter of 2021. The Tigers, who had rebranded as the Norwich Sea Unicorns for the canceled 2020 season, were eliminated along with the rest of the New York-Penn League. It was a particularly cruel blow when you consider the team and city had partnered to make almost one million dollars in improvements to the ballpark after the 2019 season. Filling the void was the summer collegiate wood-bat Futures League, which is made up mostly of teams playing in former minor league ballparks around New England. You may be asking yourself, “What is a Sea Unicorn?” A sea unicorn is a colorful term for a narwal. The team’s logo shows a narwal decked out in a jacket and captain’s hat in tribute to Norwich’s seafaring history. It also serves as a nod to the nearby Naval Submarine Base in Groton and the Coast Guard Academy in New London, both located just a short drive from Dodd Stadium. The Sea Unicorn in the logo sports a rose tattoo, an homage to Norwich’s nickname, the Rose City. Food & Beverage 5 Even though it seems everything at Dodd Stadium has been downsized, the concessions remain a strong point of the game day experience here. Most of the concession stands remain open for Sea Unicorn games, and they remain well-staffed. All the ballpark basics can be found here, including hot dogs, burgers, nachos, sausage and pepper sandwiches, chicken tenders and fries. Upgrade your dog with some chili or add some cheese to your fries for an extra dollar. A kid’s meal with a hot dog, fries and bottle of water is only $8. Coca-Cola products are featured at Dodd Stadium. In a strange twist unique to all Connecticut venues, all drinks are sold in bottles only. No fountain drinks are available. Visiting fans looking for snacks will be pleased to find pretzels, peanuts and popcorn among the offerings. The Hole in the Wall Pub sells several brands of draft beer, as well as cans for those who prefer their beverage wrapped in aluminum. The Port Side Pours stand features a variety of brews from Gray Sail Brewing, including the "Beer to be Named Later." Atmosphere 3 With only a few hundred people in a 6,200-seat ballpark, the atmosphere is going to suffer. The Sea Unicorns try, with between-inning promotions and nightly specials, but there’s only so far that these efforts can go. Fans who enjoy room to spread out and the ability to hear the sounds of the game will enjoy their time in Norwich. The PA announcer goes about his job in a professional, entertaining manner, and lineups are posted along with Futures League standings near the main entrance. Longtime visitors will undoubtedly notice that a few Dodd Stadium mainstays are missing. The Tator the Gator statue that has long stood guard at the front entrance has been moved to a hidden corner of the facility. Also, it’s strange to not see the dual major/minor league logos on the stadium façade. Younger fans will bemoan the fact that the arcade has been closed. Neighborhood 2 Dodd Stadium is located in an industrial park, and there is nothing of note within a few miles of the ballpark. Fans looking for places to stay in the area or places to eat will find a few options on Town Street on the way to the ballpark. Most fans visiting the area will not choose to stay in Norwich, opting instead to proceed to the two large casinos located nearby. Mohegan Sun is located a 15-minute drive from the ballpark, and Foxwoods is located a half hour drive from Dodd Stadium. Both casinos are renowned for their variety of shops, entertainment, and dining options, and of course, gaming choices. Families looking for a more family friendly environment will surely enjoy a visit to Mystic Seaport, located a 20-minute drive away on the Connecticut coastline. This summer attraction contains more than 60 historic buildings, museums, historic vessels, shops, and an aquarium. Fans 2 On the official Futures League site, the Sea Unicorns are listed as averaging almost 1,400 fans per game, which places them fifth in the league rankings. Stadium Journey visited Dodd Stadium on a postcard-perfect Sunday afternoon with an announced crowd of over 1,300 fans. In looking around, this figure appears to be greatly inflated. Fans at Sea Unicorn games are typical of most summer league games in the area, with die-hard fans mixed in with families. With small crowds in such a big facility, there is a ton of room for everyone to spread out and for the kids in attendance to chase down foul balls. Baseball purists will enjoy that you are able to hear all the chatter on the field. They may not enjoy having to listen to overserved fans try and heckle the players. Access 4 Dodd Stadium’s location in the Norwich Industrial Park ensures that it is easy to get to via car, but also that driving is the only method to arrive at the ballpark. Visitors to Norwich will simply take exit 14 off Interstate 395 and follow the signs to the ballpark. Dodd Stadium is located about three miles from the highway through the industrial park. Parking is in a large gravel lot adjacent to the ballpark. Seating at Dodd Stadium is available in three forms: gray folding plastic stadium chairs (premium seating), red molded bucket seats (reserved seating) and metal bleachers with backs (grandstand seating). A wide concourse runs atop the seating bowl and offers views of the field from all points except for directly behind home plate. Berms cap the end of the concourse on both sides, with a party deck located in left field and a gazebo in right field. Fans arriving early can stake a claim to the Adirondack chairs atop the right field berm. The rest rooms are clean and more than adequate for the typical Sea Unicorns crowd. Return on Investment 3 Premium tickets (gray folding stadium seats) for Sea Unicorns games cost $12, with reserved tickets (red molded bucket seats) priced at $11 and grandstand seats (bleachers) at $10. Seniors over 60 and students receive a one-dollar discount. Retired military personnel receive a $2 discount on all seats. Tickets in the lighthouse, located on the suite level, cost $20. Parking in the large lot adjacent to Dodd Stadium will cost visiting fans an additional five dollars. While concessions prices have increased in recent years, they are still comparable to other venues at this level of baseball, with many bargains to be found. Extras 1 Longtime Norwich baseball fans may want to check out the team store, where you can pick up not only some nice Sea Unicorns merchandise, but leftover swag from the Tigers and Navigators. If so inclined, there is even Lobster Roll merch for sale. Unfortunately, most of the old stuff is not marked down. Final Thoughts It’s been a long, slow decline for Dodd Stadium. Originally built to house AA-level baseball, over the years Norwich has downgraded to short season A-ball and now summer collegiate wood bat ball. We're certainly not saying that summer ball is a bad thing, but it remains to be seen if Eastern Connecticut fans will continue to show up. Dodd Stadium is a fine facility that is much too large for the needs of the Sea Unicorns. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.42 Schweickert Stadium 2600 Plank Rd. Peru, IL 61354 Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp website Schweickert Stadium website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 2,200 Pistol Shrimp Making a Home in the Illinois Valley The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp are members of the summer collegiate Prospect League and play their home games at Schweickert Stadium at Veterans Memorial Park in Peru, Illinois. The stadium's name comes from the Schweickert family, which donated $500,000 towards an investment into the stadium. The P-Shrimp began operations at Benedictine University's baseball stadium in Niles, Illinois, in 2019. After COVID-19 canceled the season, the club found a new home 100 miles west in Peru. The problem was that there wasn’t a suitable stadium; it was only a diamond and a few metal bleachers. That did not deter team management as they began constructing a stadium while, at the same time, not charging admission to fans. In 2023, a 575-seat grandstand and press box were built, featuring a brick backstop, a concession stand, and dugouts. Future phases of the project include sinking the dugouts, adding permanent bathrooms, extending the bleacher seating and enlarging the concession stands, and a new scoreboard. What the Pistol Shrimp have is a grass-roots ballpark that offers an experience nestled into the community it surrounds. Also, the team is named for its enlarged claw, capable of producing a loud snapping sound to stun its prey much larger. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand is no bigger than what you would find at a high school football stadium. It serves popcorn, nachos, pretzels, chips, candy, Pepsi products, and frozen treats: ice cream, sherbert, and novelty ice cream. The prices range from $3 to $5 apiece. A few food trucks make up the rest of the food choices behind the main grandstand. Tony’s Butt Shack has a menu consisting of pulled pork sandwiches, hillbilly nachos, loaded mac, and cheese, pulled pork parfait, and hot dogs. A pretzel truck featured long lines of customers ordering plain, cinnamon/sugar and garlic soft pretzels and fresh squeezed lemonade. A beer garden serves draft and canned beer and cocktails. A few highlights include the official team beer Short Hop Golden Ale, Tangled Roots Sieur De Lager, Miller, and Coors Light, Truly, White Claw, and Twisted Tea. The cocktails include Pistol Punch, High Fly Ball, and Vodka Slushies. Atmosphere 4 A Pistol Shrimp game is a different experience from most Prospect League games. The stadium looks more like a Division II ballpark, perhaps a little nicer than a few Division I ballparks, and the atmosphere rivals that of a Little League game. The surrounding area features grassy areas and tall corn fields. The grandstand has seating for 500 fans, while the stadium itself can hold up to 2,000 fans on additional bleachers, standing-room-only areas, and grassy areas where lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. The plastic theater-style chairs still have the fresh smell of plastic, and the brick backstop adds a nice touch to the stadium. The PA announcer encourages fans to look in their game program for the lucky number, 50/50 raffle tickets, and player information. Kids run around in groups chasing foul balls or standing next to the fence to get a glimpse of the players. In-between promotions include younger fans dancing, dressing up like Elvis, and answering trivia questions. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark is not within walking distance of restaurants or lodging but is only a short drive from I-80 or other parts of town. Locals recommend visiting Lou’s La Grotto for pizza, the Uptown Grill for fine dining, the Country House for hearty meals, and Verucchi’s Ristorante for Italian cuisine. Mickey’s Massive Burritos is located in neighboring La Salle and is home to burritos, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and drinks. Fans 4 There are many types of fans at a Pistol Shrimp game, including the diehards watching the game from the stands while keeping score, the parents enjoying a night out with friends while their kids run around the stadium, and the younger fans who enjoy a baseball and food with friends. Access 4 The ballpark is less than 2 miles south of I-80 at the Plank Road exit. There is ample parking in front of the stadium, and the entrance is in the left-field corner. A bulk of the bathrooms are located in port-a-potties way down the right field line and behind the grandstand. Soon, to be replaced with a further phase of renovations. Return on Investment 4 Admission to all games is free, and prices for concession foods range between $3-$5, but they are limited. The food truck options are a little higher but much better in quality, from $12-$14. The beer garden offers a range of beer, seltzers, and cocktails between $4 to $6. Merchandise runs $30 for a ball cap and $25 for a t-shirt. The team has a variety of items, but they are limited in size. Extras 3 The Pistol Shrimp earns a point for offering free admission to all games, having a fun and exciting mascot seen throughout the game, and providing a community-based experience at the ballpark during the summer months of June and July. Final Thoughts The Prospect League has its share of ballpark experience, from former minor league venues to community ballparks. Schweickert Stadium falls somewhere in between as a living structure that should change in the years to come. The fans, free tickets, and small-town setting make it worth a visit somewhere between the stadiums of Rockford, Normal, and Joliet. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 All Star Park 200 S Harlan St Lakewood, CO 80226 CCU Cougars website All Star Park website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 442 CCU Cougars – Keli McGregor Field at All Star Park The Colorado Christian University (CCU) Cougar’s baseball team plays their home games at the almost 20-year old Keli McGregor Field at All Star Park in Lakewood, CO. They play in the RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference), an NCAA Div II league. All Star Park is part of the Gold Crown Foundation, an organization offering youth sports in Colorado and neighboring states. It was built in 1998 and was named in honor of the Colorado’s all-star game that same year. All Star Park was renamed Keli McGregor Field at All Star Park in 2011, a year after Keli’s early passing. Keli was the president of the Colorado Rockies and was a multi-sport athlete at Lakewood High School. Gold Crown Foundation mission is “Educating youth and community through sports and enrichment programs” and its facilities are used by youth groups. The facilities not only include All Star Park, but also Field House (basketball, volleyball, etc.) and golf. The CCU Cougars baseball team began their play in 2006 as part of the RMAC. The team has not had a lot of success in its eleven year history. Food & Beverage 1 Minimal choices are available; just snacks and drinks and are purchased via cash only. The concession stand is located behind the press box and one of three bays is open for a Cougars game. Snacks include peanuts, sunflower seeds, candy, and chips ($2). Ice cream varieties are Snickers ice cream bar, Drumstick, and ice cream cup (vanilla) ($1 – $2.50). Drinks are Coke, Sprite, bottled water, Powerade, and coffee ($2 – $3 – it’s odd the coffee is the higher priced item). The only “food’ is a Hot Pocket ($2) or a Rip n Dip – a stuffed pizza ring ($4). On the day of this review, 11 items were scratched off the menu listing. Outside food and drink can be brought in for a Cougars ballgame and if desiring something of more substance this might be the best choice. Atmosphere 2 Keli McGregor Field at All Star Park has some decent features and there are others that are less desirable. First, it looks very similar to nearby Coors Field where the Colorado Rockies team resides: Intricate red brick exterior and columns, green fold-down stadium seats, a simulated out of town scoreboard in right field, the regular scoreboard has the Rockies logo and branding above the line score, and a similar clock tower architecture like the one at Coors Field’s entrance. The playing surface is real grass and real dirt (yeah!) and with many college ballparks, the home team players help groom the field prior to the first pitch. The seating area is comprised of three sections, six rows each of green fold-down stadium seats (without cup holders) totaling 194 chairs which are placed behind home plate and in front of the press box. Grass berms are down both baselines and fans bring blankets and their furry friends to watch the game. Six metal picnic tables (three on each side of the press box) provide a place to sit. Many fans bring lawn chairs and just watch from the concourse down both baselines. A huge downside to the field is a black chain link fence that surrounds the entire playing surface and it really messes with the eyes when trying to see the ball and the game action. Another downside (especially if sitting in the fold-down chairs) is the music volume is just way too loud as two speakers are placed right on each side of the press box deafening those in the stadium seating area. My recommendation is bring a lawn chair and place it where the concourse meets the grassy berm areas down either one of the baselines. This distances a fan from the extremely loud speakers and makes looking through a black chain link fence a little easier to see the game action. Christian, country, and popular songs are played between innings and as a part of Cougars’ walk up songs. Frequently, music is blared while a player announcement is being reported (boo!) so a fan cannot hear the name of the player. No lights are at All Star Park so only day games are played here. At the game of this review (Easter weekend), a prayer was delivered after the national anthem and before the start of the game. My perception is this is not done at every home game. Neighborhood 3 There’s not much to the area surrounding the ballpark, though it is only 6 – 7 miles to downtown Denver and all that city has to offer. The park is about two miles from the CCU campus. For places to eat, the Panaderia Rodriguez – Mexican Cuisine is a block away and is highly rated. Several other Mexican choices are nearby. Less than a mile away are common fast food joints as well as standard chain eateries like P.F. Chang’s, Ted’s Montana Grill, Olive Garden, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Craft brew lovers might enjoy the Great Frontier Brewing Company (five miles from the ballpark and offers gluten reduced beers) or CAUTION: Brewing Company (two miles from the park). Lakewood City Commons, a shopping center which has basic retail shops and eateries, is just down the road (less than a mile). For history buffs, Lakewood Heritage Center, less than two miles from All Star Park, is worth a visit. The closest hotel (about a mile from the ballpark) is the Hyatt House Denver/Lakewood at Belmar. Not necessarily a vacation destination but a typical suburban area of a major city with some unique attractions of its own, Lakewood has plenty to offer for those visiting and for those living near there who forget to check out their own backyard and neighborhood. Fans 2 Fans mainly consist of family, friends, and some students. Since most of the RMAC schools are within a couple hour’s drive, visiting fans often take up a good part of the fan base. Lots of cheers can be heard throughout the game at outstanding offense and defensive plays. Attendance is decent but the stands are certainly not full on game day; not uncommon in RMAC baseball. Parents of CCU athlete students sometimes greatly over react and get can get vocal at the visiting team. Hopefully, it was just at the game I attended; but I would have expected more civility from parents of a Christian college athlete towards a visiting team. Four-legged furry friends are allowed and are welcome. Access 3 Getting to the stadium via car is relatively easy and the concourse is flat, adequate for those in wheelchairs or parents using a stroller. The availability of handrails in the stadium seating area warrants extra recognition. Plenty of legroom is available in the green fold-down stadium seating areas in front of the press box. The wide concourse wraps the upper area of the ball field running between the foul poles and behind home plate. Restroom facilities are clean and suitable for the crowd at hand for a CCU Cougars baseball game. The closest airport is Denver International Airport, about 30 miles to All Star Park. For those local, the ball field is only a few miles off Interstate 25 (6th Ave exit) not far from downtown Denver. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are $5 and include a roster sheet. Parking is free of charge. It’s a good deal for a sunny, spring afternoon. Extras 3 A memorial plaque and columbine art piece is located on the inner wall of the press box remembering those who got killed during the Columbine High School shooting in April 1999. It’s nice to see a Coors Field look alike and kudos to the Colorado Rockies for continuing to sponsor the field and the Gold Crown Foundation. Finally, for the Gold Crown Foundation and the growth and enrichment they offer children and youths in the area. Final Thoughts It is a decent looking ballpark. If it’s one of those warm spring days in CO, grab your lawn chair/blanket, a couple bottles of water and some snacks and head to Lakewood to watch some CCU Cougars’ plays on the diamond.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Riders Field 7725 Gaylord Pkwy Frisco, TX 75034 Frisco RoughRiders website Riders Field website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 10,316 The Riders of Frisco Located in Frisco, Texas, Riders Field has been home to the Texas Rangers’ Double-A affiliate Frisco RoughRiders since April 3, 2003. The ballpark was built by one of the best architecture firms, HK, Inc., and is unique compared to other ballparks. The infrastructure for the ballpark is like condos or apartment villages, and the outer concourse is a dirt trail through various trees, simulating a park-within-a-park scheme. The stadium was known as Dr Pepper/Seven Up Ballpark (2003-2006) and then shortened to Dr Pepper Ballpark until 2020. The Dr Pepper Snapple Group declined to renew the naming rights agreement in 2017, but the facility was still called by the corporate name until the start of the 2021 season when the ballpark was renamed Riders Field. There are about 8,000 seats inside the stadium, but the general admission area located on the outfield grass berm brings an additional 2,000 people, for a total capacity of 10,316. The field is real grass with ballpark dimensions of 335 feet down the lines, 364 feet in the power alleys, and 409 feet to the center field. The Frisco RoughRiders have a history of success since arriving in Frisco, having won the 2004 Texas League Championship. Dr Pepper Ballpark hosted the 2005, 2009, and most recently the 2017 Texas League All-Star game. The ballpark also hosts other events throughout the year, the most popular being Dirk Nowitzki’s Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game, an annual sold-out event in Frisco. Food & Beverage 5 There are plenty of food options inside the ballpark – the RoughRiders offer up traditional ballpark fare including hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, pizza, peanuts, and pretzels from concession stands behind home plate as you enter the ballpark. Prices start as low as the $6.50 hot dog. The best way to offset your cost, though, is purchasing the basket combos, as all baskets are served with seasoned fries or kettle chips – these combos are $12 for a cheeseburger or chicken tenders and $9.50 for the hot dog combo. Another variety of food offerings here is Tex-Mex – this concession offers tacos al carbon, quesadillas de pollo, and a cheese quesadilla costing $14. However, in Texas food means BBQ, and on the first base side of the ballpark is Frisco Smoque BBQ, which has four items on the menu. BBQ nachos are $14 and have one meat and toppings, or you can get the BBQ sandwich for $10, or the mac & cheese BBQ sandwich for $11, both of which come with one meat and one side choice. The fourth item is the BBQ plate, which includes two types of meat and two sides for $11. Smoque’s meat choices are pulled pork, pulled chicken, sausage, and chopped or sliced brisket, while their sides are baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, kettle chips, and mac & cheese. There is another concourse on the third base side of the ballpark where Ono Pacific Grill has cheesesteaks, beef skewers, and sweet chili wings. The soda options are Dr Pepper and 7-Up products, and regular soda will cost you $6.50. Though the price is a bit steep, the value of buying a souvenir soda cup for $8.50 instead is well worth the extra cost. Other non-alcoholic beverage options include Snapple, bottled water, or milk for $4.50. The alcoholic beverages are above average compared to other venues. While you’ll find the standard Budweiser and Coors beer selections, there are also a variety of other choices such as Shock Top, Shiner, Red Hook, Goose Island, Sierra Nevada, St. Arnold, and KCCO. The beer prices are $9/16oz domestic bottle, $11+/16oz premium bottle, or 24oz domestic bottle. There is also a house wine available for $9/glass, while mixed drinks cost $10; the Yardstick Margarita is the highest-priced drink at $12. Alternatively, if you are looking for more of a selection, then the Herman Marshall Whiskey Saloon near the left field foul pole offers a place out of the sun, along with TVs, beer, wine, and spirits. Atmosphere 4 Riders Field offers a little bit of everything for fans. The main fan attraction was originally a pool area in right field. However, in 2016 the RoughRiders became a pioneer with the first-ever lazy river – the formerly named Choctaw Lazy River has 400 feet of gentle waves in a figure-eight, and holds 68,000 gallons of water at a depth of 3 feet. The new attraction cost $1.5 million, giving the Frisco RoughRiders the largest body of water in professional sports. The lazy river area also includes an 18-foot water curtain and a 113-linear foot waterfall to rinse off or keep cool during the hot afternoon games. The bullpens are built into the stands on either side of the ballpark, which allows fans to feel closer to the on-field action, and in left field, there is a party deck that can be rented to host business meetings or parties. There is also a playground opposite the lazy river near left field, which kids ages 5-10 may enter through the 8th inning. The gameday operations crew keeps fans engaged just like the rest of minor league baseball does, with a cheer squad and the RoughRiders mascots Deuce & Daisy providing entertainment, along with contests between innings. The overall atmosphere is consistent with the great entertainment of minor league baseball. However, it does a wonderful job of taking it to the next level and attracting large numbers of fans. Riders Field has been tops in attendance across the minor leagues over the years; the ballpark is one of the best in the country and the product on the field is solid, with a pipeline to not only the Texas Rangers but other Major League Baseball clubs as well. Neighborhood 5 Riders Field is located off the Dallas North Tollway in Frisco, next to Stonebriar Mall and Comerica Center. There are plenty of restaurants within a couple of blocks, such as Wild Pitch Sports Bar & Grill and Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, both of which are an easy walk from the ballpark. Also, there are four hotels within walking distance of the ballpark – Drury Inn and Suites, Hilton Garden Inn Frisco, Embassy Suites by Hilton, and the Hyatt Regency Frisco-Dallas. Frisco is located 25 miles north of downtown Dallas, and with a population of about 150K, Frisco has become one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas. As far as entertainment the city has a lot to offer, including Stonebriar Mall, Comerica Center, Toyota Stadium, and The Star, the Dallas Cowboys football headquarters and training facility. Comerica Center serves as the home court for the Texas Legends of the NBA’s G League and indoor football’s Frisco Fighters, as well as the practice facility and corporate offices for the Dallas Stars, while Toyota Stadium is home to FC Dallas of the MLS. Fans 5 The RoughRiders continually have strong attendance and sell-outs are common, especially when a Texas Rangers player is rehabbing his way back to Arlington. Frisco was the pioneer in the latest MLB trend of moving the minor league team closer to the parent club, allowing the local fans to see the future of the professional team. The fact that Frisco and Arlington are separated by only 29 miles allows Rangers fans to not only show up, but also to support their double-A team with the same passion, knowledge, and dedication they give the Rangers. Fans at the game show their support by wearing Riders’ apparel. Of course, Rangers’ apparel is well represented around the park, as fans continually show pride in being a minor league pipeline to the Texas Rangers. Access 4 Located just 25 miles from both downtown Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Riders Field is accessible by multiple modes of transit. If traveling from downtown Dallas the drive is rather easy to make, as the ballpark is just off the Dallas North Tollway; from DFW Airport use Highway 121 towards McKinney to get to the ballpark. There has been recent construction around the ballpark, so traffic could be slow on the ingress/egress, and there is no public transportation at this time to the ballpark. There are two parking garages and three lots that open two and a half hours before game time. Parking costs $5 if purchased in advance, otherwise, it will be $10. However, free parking is available at Stonebriar Mall just a couple of blocks from the ballpark, near the outfield entrances. There are three main entrances to the park: center field gate, left field gate, and home plate gate. The ticket and will-call offices are located near home plate on the first base side of the ballpark (on RoughRiders Trail). There is also a ticket office near the outfield entrance toward Embassy Suites and Stonebriar Mall; however, this office doesn’t seem to be open for every game. The stadium’s infrastructure has eight pavilions, and these pavilions house the concession stands, concourse, and suites on the second level. There are two ways to navigate around the ballpark – the inside concourse down the baselines or on the other side of the pavilions. The outside path is unique compared to other ballparks, as the access is a dirt trail through trees that weaves around the ballpark. The signage around the ballpark is easy to read and provides a wonderful guide; the bathrooms are located on the back side of the pavilions. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Frisco RoughRiders games typically run between $11 and $37. Also, for most people having to travel on the tollway adds cost, as does not being allowed to bring in outside food and drinks, but the cost can be reduced with free parking at the mall. The RoughRiders do have nightly promotions and ticket plans that can lower the ticket cost, though. One of the better promotions, BBQ and baseball, is the first Sunday home game of every month, and includes 4 tickets, 4 RoughRiders souvenirs, and a $20 Rudy’s BBQ gift card – a $150 value for only $40! But regardless of the cost, Riders Field is unique and features a wonderful atmosphere, so it is a must-see for anyone that loves baseball or is visiting the Frisco area. Extras 4 The stadium has unique architecture, and the RoughRiders Teddy Roosevelt logo is an interesting twist in minor league apparel. The lazy river is a huge plus – while many ballparks have added a pool, no other park has a lazy river. In addition, the Frisco RoughRiders play a major role in the Texas Rangers organization, so watching a major league player during a rehab stint is an exciting opportunity for RoughRiders fans. Final Thoughts Riders Field offers one of the best minor league baseball experiences, with an intimate setting in a populated area. The Frisco area is becoming a sports fan’s destination paradise, and the area continues to grow. If you’re in the Dallas area 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.

Photos Courtesy of Mosharrof Hossain, Bob Shallenberger, & Paul Chancey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Itchy Jones Stadium Saluki Dr. Carbondale, IL 62901 Southern Illinois Salukis website Itchy Jones Stadium website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 2,000 Scratch Your Baseball Itch After competing at Abe Martin Field since 1964, the Southern Illinois University Salukis baseball team moved into the brand new Richard ‘Itchy’ Jones Stadium in 2014. Built on the site of Abe Martin Field, Itchy Jones Stadium is named after SIU’s all-time winningest baseball coach. Jones took the Salukis to 10 NCAA Tournaments and three College World Series in his 21 years in charge. Jones also was an integral part of the campaign for the stadium renovation. The playing surface continues to be named after Martin, who spent 33 years in Carbondale, including 19 years as head baseball coach. As part of the new facility, the clubhouse was named after the late Dan Callahan, SIU’s second-winningest coach with 442 triumphs over 16 seasons. The seating area consists of five rows of maroon chair back seats directly behind home plate and three to five rows of bleachers with backs to the end of the dugouts. The concourse down the lines features several picnic tables. The Salukis play in the Missouri Valley Conference and have a rich history. Affectionately known as The Dawgs, SIU has won eight MVC titles, made 14 NCAA Tournament appearances, and has reached the College World Series on five occasions. SIU has sent over two dozen players to the majors, including familiar names like Dave Stieb, Steve Finley, and Jerry Hairston. Food & Beverage 4 Before the new stadium was built, Saluki baseball fans did not have access to a concession stand. Now, the fans have several, affordable options at the one stand on the concourse. Hot dogs, brats, and corn dogs. Chili dogs, chili nachos, brisket, and pulled chicken sandwiches all sell for reasonable prices. Snacks like popcorn, cookies, candy, peanuts, and chips. One of the largest (and tastiest) stadium pretzels I have ever found is $4. As is the case in many college facilities, alcohol is not available. Soft drinks are $3 for a regular and $4 for a sturdy, souvenir cup that features SIU logos throughout the decades. Bottles of water and Gatorade are $3. One of the more popular items, especially among the younger fans, is Dippin’ Dots. A small dish of the frozen treat is $4 and a large one is $7 (the most expensive item on the menu). Atmosphere 4 Dating back to the program’s success in the 1970s, Saluki baseball games have been a major part of spring in southern Illinois. Abe Martin Field was a bare-bones facility and the patrons always had fun. Even though the program has not seen much on-field success lately, the fans are still having fun at their shiny new facility. Along with brand new light towers, allowing the program to host night games for the first time in school history, Itchy Jones Stadium features a well-working speaker system. The PA announcements and music between innings might bother those with sensitive ears. The chair back seats and bleachers provide an up-close view of the game. If you would rather stretch out, the concourse offers perfect views for anybody who wants to sit at the picnic tables or stand. Outside the gates to the concourse, down the first base line, is “The Hill.” Fans can bring their chairs and set up shop on the grassy knoll. Some fans bring coolers, bean bag toss, and volleyballs and watch the game from this unique location. The playing surface features two different types of artificial grass. The pitcher's mound is a traditional dirt surface, while the baselines and warning track are also artificial. The outfield fence features 8 advertisements and a marker that says “CAL.” This marker, like the clubhouse, honors former coach Callahan. Neighborhood 3 Itchy Jones Stadium is located near the other Southern Illinois athletic facilities, including SIU Arena and Saluki Stadium. If you aren’t a student living on campus, chances are you will be driving to the game. Nothing in Carbondale is that far apart, so you will only be a few minutes away from the dining and drinking options of the close-to-campus “Strip,” or the chain restaurants and stores on the eastern edge of town along Route 13. I had hoped to stop in at Italian Village Pizza and Pasta, a place I remembered from the last time I was in Carbondale many years ago. On the corner of Elm and Washington, Italian Village has been open for over 50 years. Unfortunately, their location and a few other places I drove past had lines out the door due to graduation. Just down the road in Marion, before I got on Interstate 57, I stopped in at 17th Street BBQ. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel and is very close to Marion Ballpark, home of the Thrillville Thrillbillies of the Prospect League. 17th Street BBQ’s menu features plenty of appetizers, sandwiches, and platters. The pulled pork sandwich is big and filling and hush puppies are a welcome sight as a side item. The bar features several local selections from Big Muddy Brewing out of Murphysboro, Illinois. Fans 3 While SIU baseball is not bringing out fans in numbers reminiscent of four decades ago, the crowd is still knowledgeable and supportive of the home team. The antics and size of “The Hillside Gang” are legendary in southern Illinois. It’s estimated that 2,000-3,000 students would take over the grassy hillside and give a lot of grief to the opposing teams. The size of the gang on The Hill has decreased, but they continue to make themselves heard by umpires and the visiting dugout. Access 4 There is plenty of parking available in the SIU athletic complex. I attended a game while graduation ceremonies were being held at SIU Arena. Since the facilities share parking, I was a little concerned I might have a hike to the diamond. That was not the case as there is more than enough parking for a big turnout. The stadium features handicapped parking adjacent to the left-field line. Men’s and women’s restrooms flank the concession stand. The facilities are new, clean, and spacious enough that no one has to wait. Return on Investment 4 Admission is $5 and while it’s hard to charge to get in while other state programs have free admission, it is clear that your entrance fee is helping to fund this beautiful new facility. Parking is free and concession prices are comparable to those of other stadiums, especially when you consider the wide variety of options available. Extras 3 Southern Illinois went all out to honor the history of its program by naming the stadium, field, and clubhouse after former coaches. The Salukis even named the press box after their longtime broadcaster Mike Reis. The new press box features a plaque describing what Reis has meant to the program. Other plaques on the walls of the press box and concession stand include ones honoring 1st team All-Americans, players in the pros, MVC championship teams, and NCAA Tournament teams. Another nice touch is a plaque honoring stadium donors. Final Thoughts Itchy Jones Stadium is a glowing tribute to the history of the Southern Illinois University baseball program and a tool to help them possibly reach that level of success again. This venue is a nice reflection on a part of the state of Illinois that loves the game of baseball.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Carilion Clinic Field 1008 Texas St Salem, VA 24153 Salem Red Sox website Carilion Clinic Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 6,300 Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark – Salem Red Sox Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia, the city of Salem has hosted minor league baseball since the 1930s. Though much of that minor league baseball was hosted just down the street at Kiwanis Park, the Salem Red Sox have been one of three affiliated minor league teams to call Carilion Clinic Field home since it opened in 1995. Food & Beverage 4 With several concession stands around the stadium, the Salem Red Sox serves up an extensive menu. Along with all the typical stadium food, several stands have their themes. The Bigs, located on the secondary concourse along the first baseline, serves specialty hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches. This stand has the feel that each menu item is its food challenge – no other menu option displays this more than the “Fat Sandwich”, consisting of chicken tenders, mozzarella cheese sticks, fries, and marinara Sauce. Alternatively, Buckets on the third base side has many fried options, including chicken wings, cheese curds, mini corn dogs, and even a bucket of fried veggies for those looking for a…healthy…option. In addition, tucked away under the first base bleachers, The Cantina might have the most culinarily advanced choices with their street tacos and quesadillas. Carilion Clinic Field also serves a wide array of alcoholic beverages; local breweries Ole Salem Brewing Company and Big Lick Brewing are two of the featured local beers served. Seltzers, wine, and premixed drinks are also served. There are also a handful of non-alcoholic brews, along with a full variety of Pepsi beverages and sports drinks for non-beer drinkers. Atmosphere 3 As fans initially enter Carilion Clinic Field, they are greeted by a wide-opening view of the field-level seating bowl, as well as the mountainous backdrop. A large bar sits just steps from the front gates to greet fans and quench their thirst as they initially survey the stadium. The seating bowl is broken into two general areas, and there is no overhang or roof to the seating bowl providing shelter from the elements. The stadium has the feel of one large concrete edifice – it is somewhat reminiscent of PNC Field, home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Rail Riders, before its renovations in 2013. When it comes to the in-game presentation, on-field contests, and scoreboard games are like those found at many stadiums around the county, although there does not appear to be much that is regionally unique or a new take on an old favorite. Fans seem to only have a passing interest in most of the contests or games; even the Red Sox’s tradition of Sweet Caroline played in the middle of the 8th inning garners minimal involvement. Coming out of the 2021 reorganization of minor league baseball, Salem saw their Red Sox affiliation move to Class-A from their previous High-A status. With a capacity of 6,300 fans, Carilion Clinic Field is the third largest in the Carolina League, though the size of the stadium for the classification just makes the stadium seem too large given the typical attendance. For those who enjoy the serenity of simply being at a ballpark with breathtaking views while taking in the game, Carilion Clinic Field will suffice, but a bit is missing when it comes to the overall entertainment value of the experience. Neighborhood 3 Salem sits just east of the Appalachian Mountains that run up the eastern shore board, and they are prominently visible behind the first base side of the stadium. Carilion Clinic Field itself is just about a mile from the cozy downtown of Salem, Virginia, and the campus of Roanoke College. The baseball stadium is part of the City of Salem’s athletic facilities, sandwiched between Salem Stadium, which has twice hosted the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl (NCAA’s Division III football national championship game), and the Salem Civic Center. Though there are not a lot of pre-game entertainment options at the stadium itself, downtown Salem does have several restaurants where fans can easily grab a bite to eat. Fans 2 Salem’s attendance ranks in the bottom third of teams in the Carolina League, but it will see spikes throughout the year for popular promotion nights. Of those who do turn out, their attention does seem to be on the game, but there is not much when it comes to the atmosphere created by the fans. Every stadium is going to have its diehards, but many of the fans here seem to be at the ballpark only for the social aspect of the evening. Access 3 Salem is located just off I-81 in the northern Virginia mountains. It is commonly used as an alternate route to avoid some of the traffic around the larger cities along I-95. With its proximity to the interstate, getting to the Carilion Clinic Field is rather direct. Once at the stadium, the parking lot does not have a lot of attendants, so where to go can get a bit confusing, but once parked the front gates are just a short walk away. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are a bit difficult to figure out given the team’s average attendance. Upper-level seating, which is general admission seats, runs $13 and seems to be a touch high given the smaller crowds. The best tickets for the money, though, are the $19 Strike Zone seats that make up the four field-level sections behind home plate and also have an in-seat concession service. You are paying more for the ticket, but the extra $6 for a seat this close to home plate is worth the extra charge. Given there is no charge for parking and concessions are fairly priced, fans are getting their money’s worth here. Extras 3 The external concourse is adorned with banners of many of the more high-profile players to have come through Salem, on their way to careers in the Majors. Behind the third base side bleachers is a wiffle ball field built to Fenway Park specifications, complete with a Green Monster, center field triangle, and right field bullpen – all that is missing is the Citgo sign. The views of the surrounding mountains and other nearby peaks are stunning and create some amazing sunsets. Final Thoughts Baseball stadiums are different than those of other sports, in that the natural surroundings play an important role in how memorable an experience a visit can be. The views at Carilion Clinic Field provided by the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide possibly the most impressive backdrop in all of the Carolina League. Though the overall fan involvement in games tends to be inconsistent and does impact the atmosphere of the game, there is enough serenity from the setting, and enough variety of food items, to visit Carilion Clinic Field an enjoyable experience.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Detroit Grand Prix Detroit, MI 48243 Detroit Grand Prix website Year Opened: 1982 Downtown in Motown The Detroit Grand Prix has a long history in motorsports. Initially racing through downtown streets, it moved to the city’s Belle Isle for several decades. Finally, starting in 2023, it has returned to downtown Detroit, complete with a wild mix of difficult corners ripe for exciting racing. On top of the on-track product, one could argue this is one of the single most accessible street races from a fan perspective, with an overwhelming majority of the track viewing opportunities in non-ticketed areas. Food & Beverage 4 There are several ways to approach the topic of food and beverages here. First, a look at the fan ticketed areas of the course shows a wide variety of foods. Food trucks and vendors line the area with everything from burgers and hot dogs to nachos, tacos, and salads. However, because the circuit is also located in the city streets, part of the track offers food options outside of the fan areas. A perfect example of this is the GM Renaissance Center – located right in the middle of the circuit but still outside of the ticketed area for fans, anyone can walk in here and grab a bite from Panera Bread or the other dining options here, and still catch the on-track action. Atmosphere 5 There is something about the sound of roaring engines echoing through the canyon of city high-rises. Fans can expect the usual action on track, with IndyCar as the headliner and Trans-Am, Indy NXT, and IMSA playing support at the event. The fans cheer and roar with every daring pass and exciting finish, and with the track so close to the grandstands, you can’t help but feel the energy in the air. The track layout also winds through city streets that showcase stunning city backdrops, with Detroit’s historic buildings and architecture on full display. Neighborhood 4 The city of Detroit has seen its share of hard times in recent years. That said, the track does avoid the rougher areas of the city, and winds through downtown’s more renovated areas. Hart Plaza and Spirit of Detroit Plaza both serve as fan areas to gather and watch from down near the tight hairpin corner downtown. GM’s headquarters is also located in the middle of the circuit itself, as the track races past the Detroit Riverwalk on Atwater Street. Trees line the streets on Jefferson Avenue where the long backstretch is located, providing shade for fans during the warm summer days. Even the famous Joe Louis “Fist” statue is located in the middle of the circuit. As far as Detroit goes, the track layout showcases the best of the city as it continues to claw its way back to prominence. Fans 4 The fans here pack the track as they have in years past. The grandstands near the finish line and the hairpin were full for nearly every on track session, as were the suite boxes along the track’s unique double-sided pit road. It’s hard to argue against the passion of the fans in Detroit for motorsports, given the city’s unique history in the car industry, and it was on full display here at the Grand Prix. Access 5 Access is where the event gets massive points – the layout of this year’s Detroit Grand Prix takes it past some unique locations in Detroit proper. First, you have the fact that only the paddock, finish line area, and the hairpin are technically ticketed fan areas; these zones feature grandstand seating and fan concessions for the event. Spirit Plaza is where driver intros take place, while Hart Plaza features several concerts throughout the event. On top of that, the Center Garage adjacent to turns 5, 6, and 7 features a rooftop fan zone for ticket-holding fans. Here, food stands and a DJ booth feature prominently, while giving you an elevated look at the track action down below. However, the shining stars for fan access are the non-ticketed areas. The Detroit Grand Prix’s unique location means many areas for viewing are located outside of ticketed zones. Victory lane is located along the Detroit Riverwalk – speaking of the riverwalk, the entire track that runs along Atwater Street is easily seen from there without needing a ticket. The GM Renaissance Center is also not a ticketed area, with the autograph sessions being held inside for all fans. Additionally, numerous free viewing platforms are located along Jefferson Avenue, offering free track viewing of the track itself. But perhaps the best free view of the Detroit Grand Prix is from the numerous parking garages that are near the finish line complex. The Port Atwater Garage, Beaubien Garage, Franklin Garage, and River East Garage all offer multiple floors of elevated viewing. These garages are not ticketed for fans, meaning anyone can walk inside without a ticket, although you will need a parking pass should you wish to park inside any of them. On race day, many fans are seen tailgating from their cars parked in the garages overlooking the track, offering stunning trackside views of pit lane, the finish line, and the last few corners on the track. Finally, while the majority of the paddock area is inside the ticketed zone by the finish line and pit road, the Trans-Am series paddock is outside of that, allowing all fans with or without a ticket to get up close to the cars and drivers as the teams work on the cars for the event. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices to the Detroit Grand Prix start at $50 for grandstand access in the ticketed areas, and rise to just over $100 for some seats. However, with the majority of the track visible from non-ticketed zones, as well as the numerous free viewing platforms along the backstretch, you can easily watch the Detroit Grand Prix from multiple areas around the track without needing a ticket for access. Extras 3 Throughout the weekend there are several free autograph sessions for IndyCar, IMSA, and Trans-Am drivers in the GM Renaissance Center. This gives you a chance to meet the stars of the respective series without having to pay extra. Also, as stated above, victory lane is located in a free area, giving everyone a chance to get up close to the post-race celebrations. Finally, Detroit Grand Prix fans can look forward to Free Friday – this allows all fans free access to the track’s ticketed areas, including the paddock and fan zones, without needing to pay for a ticket. Final Thoughts While the loss of Belle Isle’s park-like location was lamented by some, the gain of a unique layout that features unparalleled access for fans perhaps has been the best outcome for the Detroit Grand Prix. Unique in setting and layout, this track offers everything that is great about street racing for race fans. Add to that the usually great summer weather the mid-west is famous for, and you have a great recipe for a wonderfully enjoyable race weekend in Motown.

In this episode we put the "Journey" back in "Stadium Journey." Dan, Marc, Dave and Paul recap their best road trips from the past few months. Our travels take us far off the beaten path. Join us, will you? Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page. Join us live as we record every other Tuesday night at 7PM eastern at danlaw.tv.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.58 Bison Dome 4241 E 300 S. Oxford, IN 47971 Benton Central HS Bison Bison Dome website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 3,538 Benton Central; A Sneaky Good Basketball Dome Benton Central Jr-Sr High School opened for the 1968-1969 academic school year as a result of the consolidation of Ambia, Boswell, Earl Park, Fowler, Freeland Park, Montmorenci, Pine Township, Oxford, Otterbein, and Wadena Schools. However, its dome basketball gymnasium wouldn’t be ready until the 1969-1970 season. The Arena Dome, or what I like to call the Bison Dome, held a capacity of 4,000 plus when it opened for the Bison but renovations have reduced the number to 3,538 — good enough for the 90th largest gymnasium in the state of Indiana and large enough to top many other facilities of its kind in the 49 other states in the country. The dome roof and ceiling are the gym’s main focal point and its design is similar to the Raider Dome at Southern Wells High School. Something is interesting about the dome basketball gymnasium and this arena stands out in the small town of Oxford, Indiana, just 30 miles west of Lafayette on SR-52. The gym is what some of us say as being “sneaky good” and there has been a lot of good basketball played here as the boys have captured 15 sectional and 4 regional championships while the girls’ program has won 21 sectional, 11 regional, and 4 semi-state championships along with three appearances in the title game. Food & Beverage 5 There is a lot to enjoy at the concession stand during the game and the selection is so abundant that the Bison became the first high school venue to receive a perfect score. Perhaps it is due to not many restaurants near the school but fans get more than the usual snack foods of hot dogs and popcorn when taking in a game underneath the dome. The gym offers tenderloin sandwiches, coney dogs from Dog and Suds, spicy chicken sandwiches, barbecue sandwiches, chicken strips, and a Bison dog (cheese and barbecue). There are French fries that are covered with chili, barbecue, or cheese. The same adheres to nachos that are also topped with barbecue. For dessert, there is a concession stand on the upper level that sells freshly baked cookies that are two for a dollar. All of these items are offered in $5 combos complete with fries and a 32-ounce Coca-Cola fountain product. There were even a few more items that were blocked off the menu list. Atmosphere 3 The Bison Dome is a visual treat the moment you walk inside its spacious confines and are treated to the classical style gym of its era complete with fresh green and gold paint all over the building. It is a wonder why this gym is not talked about more by the legions of high school fans here in Indiana. The building features one side slightly larger than the other. There is seating on all four sides of the court on both levels and banners from the various school championship teams hang from the rafters. The bottom-level seating features photographs of a few championship-winning sides. The highlight and focal point is the large dome roof that begins its second century of use in 2020. It looks as sharp as it did when it first opened and a touch of fresh paint in 2018 accented the gym’s aesthetics. A framed picture of a bison is hung on the upper-level wall along with a few old-school-looking logos along with the top level. The atrium features trophy cases, a concession stand, ticket booths, and a selection of tables where fans can enjoy their meal before the game or during halftime. The area is modern and was constructed in the late 1970s but features nice stone walls with shades of gray and black. Neighborhood 2 South Benton is located in Oxford, Indiana, near the town of Fowler which is exactly 100 miles between Chicago and Indianapolis. To say that the school is in the middle of nowhere is an understatement, the school is located next to a series of solar power windmills that stretch well past I-65 several miles east of campus. The area is home to a few local places that are recommended before a game. The local establishments include 100 Mile Rib & Chop House and Local Bar in Fowler and Dan Patch Cafe just south in Oxford. The 100 Mile Rib & Chop House features a full-service bar and a separate restaurant offering Angus steaks, ribs, and bone-in pork chops. There is also a home-style menu option for $8.95, weeknight dinner specials, and burgers and sandwiches. RDM Shrimp Farm offers tours of its sustainable shrimp that are raised on-site. Visitors can visit the premise which includes a gift shop and store to purchase shrimp and other products. The Fowler Theater is a 1940s movie theater that shows $6 films in its Art-Deco interior that takes visitors back in time. Lafayette and Purdue University are about 30 miles southeast of the school providing a wealth of restaurants, breweries, and other sights when taking in a game. Fans 3 To be honest, many of the Bison faithful were planning on heading to see the ladies in the semi-state game the next night in LaPorte, Indiana (a few hours north of town). However, the ones who were at their game showed school spirit with various t-shirt designs in the school colors. The light crowd was spirited throughout tonight’s contest and cheered on their hometown boys. Access 4 The gym is located 30 miles away from Lafayette, Indiana along State Road 52. It’s somewhat off the beaten path but not that far enough that one cannot make a simple trip to enjoy basketball at a truly interesting little gymnasium. Once inside the building, the design of the facility makes it easy to circumnavigate the seating bowl to get to your seat and access the bathroom and concession stands. The crowds are never near or at capacity so you have plenty of access to and about during your game. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket is $5 for a basketball game and is on par with other gymnasiums in the state. Concession items are also fairly affordable with no menu item being more than $3. There is plenty of parking that is free for the game and the small-town atmosphere makes it highly enjoyable to attend the game at a sneaky good basketball facility here in Hoosier State. Extras 4 The Dome earns a point for its dome architect ceiling and roof–the focal point during a basketball game. There is quite the collegiate feel when watching a game here that is reminiscent of a smaller version of the Mackey Arena at nearby Purdue University. The Dome earns another point for its wide variety of concession items from spicy chicken sandwiches, to Coney, and two freshly baked cookies. They go above and beyond with their food selection. Fans can even enjoy fountain beverages in 16 and 32-ounce cups. The third point is the look of the gym itself from its interior. The colors of green and gold are everywhere from photographs, paintings, and wall art. The curved glass banister also adds a nice little touch to the gymnasium that has a look all its own. The Dome gets a fourth point for the solar windmills that dot the landscape and provide a distinctive backdrop to the school and campus. There are 414 of them located on the Meadow Lake Wind Farm. Final Thoughts The arena gym is not as celebrated as other facilities in the state but one should never overlook this charming and distinctive building set aside the farmlands and solar power mills of Benton County. It is somewhat off the beaten path but not too far to enjoy high school basketball in the state of Indiana. It is a gorgeous facility with plenty of nice touches and concession items. Sometimes, the best places take a bit of drive to get to but are definitely worth the effort. ____ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com