Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 CoolToday Park 18800 South, W Villages Pkwy Venice, FL 34293 Atlanta Braves Spring Training website CoolToday Park website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 8,000 The Braves New World CoolToday Park opened in 2019 as the new spring training home of the Atlanta Braves. However, the stadium only hosted the last spring training game at the park in 2019. The spring training games with fans in the stands were wiped out by the pandemic in 2020-2021 and the lockout in 2022, so the 2023 season is only the second opportunity to see a Braves game in person at Cool Today. The stadium’s location is shown as North Port, which is actually a suburb of Venice, FL. The stadium has 6,300 seats, but it has a berm capacity of 1,800 people, bringing total capacity to 8,000 fans. The field has dimensions of Left Field: 335 feet; Center Field: 400 feet; Right Field: 325 feet. Food & Beverage 3 The food and beverage selection at CoolToday Park is both delicious and varied in selection. While most ballparks feature just the standard, safe staples, CoolToday Park explores some unusual offerings. We start with the Tomahawk Tiki Bar (I know… politically incorrect!) along the left field foul line at the venue. It offers burgers ($14), tacos ($14), subs, sandwiches, po boys ($14), quesadillas ($14), and salads ($10). It opens to the public on non-event days for Happy Hours from 11am to 4pm, with $3 Bud Lights, Michelob Ultra, and $5 craft beers. We did not say it was cheap. It is a Tiki Bar…. Drink a few $3 beers and you will not feel the pain in your pocketbook for a few days! The variety of foods comes with the other concession stand offerings. Along the third baseline is the Florida Fish Camp. It features fried fish with hushpuppies and fries and is served in a tackle box for $12. Other items on the Fish Camp menu are shrimp and conch fritters. The Chicken Coop offers both fried and grilled chicken plates, which include fried pickles and boom boom sauce for $10. Atlanta’s own Chick-fil-A is also on-site, selling its specialty at the same price as any of its retail stores…. and never on Sundays! Other stands along the concourse are Salsa Supreme, Dawg’s N Burgers (please note: there is only one way to spell “dog” in Georgia!), Sausage Shack, and Greenfield’s Ice Cream. Oh, if you still have a desire for another drink… there is a Landshark Landing on the first base side of the stadium. We rate the quality and variety of food and beverages at CoolToday Park very highly. Unfortunately, we find the prices charged for food and drinks to be extremely expensive. Atmosphere 5 You begin to enjoy the atmosphere at CoolToday Park before you even enter the ballpark. The exterior skin of the stadium features large murals featuring the team logo as well as photos of Braves elites Bobby Cox, Warren Spahn, Eddie Mathews, Tom Glavine, Hank Aaron, Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz. These players are also recognized with their numbers on display on the plaza outside the park. It makes for a great selfie location. Once inside the park, the first two things you will notice are its openness and the 360-degree concourse. The concourse is open on the field side so you will not miss any of the action on the field while you are away from your seat. This openness also allows the breeze in the area to keep you cool throughout the game. The 360-degree concourse allows you to travel to all the different concession stands and the opportunity to check out the action on the field from different angles. The stadium has two levels of seating. A majority of the stadium bowl is below the concourse level, bringing the fans very close to the action. An upper level (known as the Terrace level) offers suites and very limited single seats at a premium charge. These seat locations have air conditioning and controlled access to a bar and the Smokehouse BBQ restaurant. CoolToday Park offers a state-of-the-art electronics package. This includes a video board in left-center field, three LED boards along the concourse and TV’s along the concourse so that you will not miss any of the action during visits to the concession stand. Neighborhood 2 The Braves are the owners and developers of CoolToday Park. The plan was to develop the property around the stadium for retail, restaurants, and possibly some hotels. This would be in keeping with their very profitable Battery development adjoining Truist Park in Atlanta. These plans have been unproductive thus far, due in part to the pandemic and the slowing down of the economy. There is some thought that the absence of a Florida State League team to occupy the stadium after the Braves return to Atlanta for the regular season has been a factor in the situation. The only restaurant in the area at this time is JoJo’s Stadium Café and Pub, which is located on Tamiami Trail just before the intersection with South West Village Parkway. Its motif features the Brave's red and blue colors, with plenty of Braves memorabilia on display. The closest lodging to the stadium is at exit 191 of I-75, or in Venice, FL along the Gulf Coast. Fans 4 The Braves have always drawn well at their spring training locations going all the way back to their days at West Palm Beach. This dates back to being the first MLB team in the Deep South, and to their days as “America’s Team” on Superstation 17. Former Braves owner Ted Turner was a pioneer in Cable TV, and telecasting his team’s games to the entire country was a cheap way to fill air time and create a fan following in the South. The fans soon were coming to Braves games at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium and Turner Field, both of which were located along I-75. So it only follows that those Braves fans would travel just a few hundred miles further south on I-75 to see Spring Training games and enjoy the Florida weather. The Braves recent string of Division Championships, appearances in the World Series, and a World Series Championship in 2021 have only strengthened and enlarged the Braves Nation. Although politically incorrect for many, the Braves fans continue to perform the Tomahawk Chop when the Braves are in scoring position, despite the best efforts of the team. Access 3 CoolToday Stadium is easily accessed from exit 191 (River Road) off of 1-75. Once you arrive at the stadium there are 1,000 parking spaces, many of which are designated for disabled persons. There are bicycle racks outside of the park for those who prefer this alternative form of transportation. There are three entry gates to CoolToday Stadium. Gate 1 will bring you in on the first base side of the stadium. Gate 2 brings you in on the third base side of the stadium. Gate 3 brings you in at the Tomahawk Tiki Bar, which is also open for business when there is no game scheduled. The closest airport to CoolToday Park is the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport. It offers direct flights from Atlanta, but few connecting flights. The Tampa International Airport is the next closest airport and offers many more connecting flights. Gates open a full two hours before the first pitch. This allows fans plenty of time to check out the various concession stands and the team store before going to their seats. Once inside of CoolToday Park, the accessibility is excellent. The park was built well after the Americans with a Disability Act was passed, so the park meets, and most often exceeds ADA Requirements. There are shuttles which come out to your parking space to the stadium and return you after the games. Elevators are available to get you to any level of the park. The concourses are wide and easy to negotiate, and there is plenty of designated wheelchair-viewing seats along the concourses. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Braves spring training games are available at several price points. They include tickets behind the plate at $60; behind the dugouts cost $55; tickets down the foul lines beyond the infield at the lower level for $50 and tickets in the upper (also known as Terrace level) at $45. The least expensive seats at CoolToday Park are the bleacher seats in the Truist Pavilion high above deep center field at $34, and the space on the grass berm in left field for $20. However, many fans purchase the least expensive ticket and station themselves along the drink rails along the concourse, which encircle the entire field, for the whole game. The Braves have built the parking fee into the ticket prices so you will not have to pay an additional fee to park when you arrive at the park for a game. CoolToday Park has more than 1,000 parking spaces. Food prices are very expensive compared to their true cost and value. This brings this segment of our stadium ratings well down from any other segment. Extras 5 The Braves played both Team Puerto Rico and Team Dominican Republic at CoolToday Park in 2023 as part of the World Baseball Classic. CoolToday Park was very close to the path of Hurricane Ian. However, it sustained much less damage than its sister Grapefruit League stadiums in Port Charlotte and in Ft. Myers. Repairs were completed at CoolToday Park well in advance of the 2023 Spring Training season. In the offseason, the ballpark hosted a Jingle Jam celebration during the Christmas holidays. The Jingle Jam included a 5 K run, a holiday market, carnival games, and a tree lighting ceremony. CoolToday Park also hosted several Big Ten baseball games and the Mizuno College Invitational Tournament. The Braves spring training complex adjoining the stadium offers six major league sized practice fields. Fans are welcome to watch the action on these fields at no cost. Final Thoughts The Braves are once again serving as the developers for their home stadium, as the plans are to build hotels, restaurants, and shops in the empty lots that adjoin the CoolToday venue. Revenues from these businesses will be added to the Braves bottom line for use when they need to resign current players or go after free agents. The graphics package that covers the stadium exterior is unlike any other stadium in the Grapefruit League. It cements the Braves brand in people's minds, much as its days when former owner Ted Turner’s early cable TV network introduced them to the country as America’s baseball team in the 1970s.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Greensboro Coliseum 1921 W Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403 Carolina Cobras website Greensboro Coliseum website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 23,000 Third Time’s the Charm The southeastern United States has seen a resurgence of indoor football of late, with several new teams being created in the past couple of years in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. The Carolina Cobras are one such team, founded in 2018 as part of the National Arena League – this is Greensboro’s third try at indoor football, having had two prior teams that each folded after only two seasons (the Greensboro Prowlers of 2002-03 and the Greensboro Revolution of 2006-07). The Greensboro Coliseum Complex opened in 1959, and was once one of the largest venues in the South, with a capacity of over 23,000. The venue has been expanded and renovated multiples times in the past several decades, however, and is now a sprawling complex that consists of multiple locations for sporting events – one of the conference areas inside the complex is occasionally used for roller derby (as well as the odd male review), while the fieldhouse outside the main complex is home to the Greensboro Swarm of the NBA’s G League. Besides hosting the Carolina Cobras, the main arena inside the complex is also used by UNCG’s men’s basketball team, as well as for ACC basketball tournaments and sometimes NCAA tournament games. Food & Beverage 4 Greensboro Coliseum does not have a huge variety of food and beverage options at its concessions stands, but it has more than enough to get you by for a couple of hours. The biggest plus is the full-size bar inside the concourse, which has plenty of tables to sit at, but also a “drinking ledge” overlooking the action, so you can watch the Carolina Cobras while you sip your adult beverage. Food options here include basics such as burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders and chicken sandwiches, pretzels, nachos, popcorn and kettle corn, peanuts, fries, chips, glazed nuts, packaged candy, cotton candy, and funnel cake. Prices are on the moderate end, with a burger and fries costing $8.50, and a hot dog costing $4. Drink selections include coffee, bottled water, bottled or fountain soda (Pepsi products), smoothies, daiquiris, and beer, wine, or liquor. Coffee runs $2.50, soda and bottled water start at $4, and beer and wine start at $8, with liquor starting at $10. The best deal in terms of drinks is the refillable soda for $8. Atmosphere 4 Greensboro Coliseum provides a great atmosphere for arena football, with lots of entertainment and giveaways for fans during breaks in the action (although the lack of a mascot is conspicuous). The staff puts on the typical fan contests such as tricycle races, and free t-shirts are tossed out at multiple points during the game. League rules differ on whether balls that go into the stands can be kept, but in the National Arena League fans in the end zone are asked to trade them in for a team-themed ball, while fans on the sidelines can keep them. Unlike other indoor football stadiums, some of which are pretty low-key, Greensboro Coliseum boasts a 4-way scoreboard above the field which shows replays of key moments in the game. There is also a lot of crowd noise, which adds to the fun atmosphere even though the arena is not sold out; in fact you can see black curtains behind the fans in the upper deck, blocking out all but the first three rows on that level. But even if you sit up there, the sightlines are great because all the seats are so close to the action, and all the seats are plush chair backs, so you can watch in comfort all game long. Neighborhood 4 Greensboro Coliseum is near UNCG’s campus, so there are some nice restaurants in the area, but also a lot of fast food and other eateries that cater to students. To the south are an aquatic center and an amphitheater, and there are numerous parks and green spaces a little further out. Stamey’s Barbecue is across Lee Street from the coliseum, and is a great choice for before or after the game, especially if you are new to Carolina and need to taste our version of the classic. Or if you are looking for something more upscale, you can find places a few blocks away such as Hops Burger Bar or Scrambled Southern Diner. While Greensboro, NC is not a huge city by any stretch, there are plenty of historic sites and other attractions in the area if you plan to be in town for the day or for the weekend. The most popular site is probably the International Civil Rights Center and Museum, which commemorates the sit-ins that occurred here in Greensboro in the 1960s – these sit-ins were actually some of the most influential and significant protests of the entire Civil Rights movement. You can also visit the Greensboro Science Center, which includes an aquarium, zoo, and hands-on activities for the kids. Or, if you are a military history buff (or aspire to be), you can visit Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, and learn about Nathaniel Greene’s actions during the Revolutionary War; this museum does a great job teaching visitors about some lesser-known battles that actually had a huge impact on the outcome of the war. Fans 2 While there are lots of empty seats right now at a typical Carolina Cobras game, the team can be forgiven since they are almost brand new – given the fun atmosphere in the arena, the team is sure to grow its fan base over time; perhaps this iteration of indoor football in Greensboro will prove to have some staying power. The best place to sit inside the Greensboro Coliseum during a Cobras game is in the upper deck right behind the goal posts – this represents your best chance to catch a game ball, as most of the extra point tries wind up there. Access 5 Getting to the Greensboro Coliseum Complex is very easy, as the venue is just a few miles off the freeway using exit 219 off I-40. There is a massive parking lot around the facility where you can park for $10, and there will be plenty of space since the arena does not sell out during Cobras games. Once you get inside the complex, there is plenty of room to move around, and no lines at the concessions or bathrooms (again due to the small crowd size) – the only downside to this is that some of the concessions stands might close early due to lack of sales. You might have to stand in line at the fan shop, however, as fan gear is sometimes in high demand, especially when the team runs sales promotions on Carolina Cobras items. Return on Investment 4 Single game tickets to Carolina Cobras games at Greensboro Coliseum start around $14, although the team sometimes does have buy-one-get-one-free sales. Considering the experience you get, this is a fair price, and will be especially worthwhile if you end up taking home a game ball or free t-shirt. Extras 4 While the lack of a mascot is disappointing, the staff more than makes up for it with the entertainment and giveaways offered. You will see the Carolina Cobras cheerleaders/dance teams perform several times during the game, and at half time the staff will bring in such entertainers as the “Disc Dogs,” which consists of a woman tossing frisbees to various dogs, who make amazing leaps and catches from end zone to end zone – the Disc Dogs regularly perform for the military. The free t-shirts are also a plus, as is the chance to catch a game ball; even if you have to trade it in for a team ball, that is still an awesome souvenir to take home. The Cobras also give away free game programs, which some professional sports charge for. Final Thoughts Arena football is a lot of fun to watch because the games are generally so high scoring, and seeing a game at a really nice facility like Greensboro Coliseum makes it even more enjoyable, with the comfortable seats, nice sight lines, and pleasant atmosphere. Take advantage if you have the opportunity, and get your football fix in during that long drought between February and August.

Photos by Spencer Collins, Greg Salo, & Treg Owings Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Bailey-Brayton Field 855 Fairway Ln Pullman, WA 99163 Washington State Cougars website Bailey - Brayton Field Year Opened: 1980 Capacity: 56,000 Baseball at Bailey-Brayton Field Bailey-Brayton Field is the home ballpark for the Washington State Cougars baseball team. The 3,500-seat stadium opened in 1980 and was named after two of the program’s managers: Chuck Bailey and Bobo Brayton. They racked up 1,765 victories between the two of them during their tenures at the university. Brayton was the skipper of the Cougars when the new stadium opened, and he was allowed to spend up to $20,000 to transport parts of the old Sicks Stadium from Seattle to campus. It included the bleacher seating, foul poles, and fencing. However, only the poles and wire fencing were used at the new stadium. The stadium has changed a bit since debuting as Bailey Field, and the changes have included the addition of lights (the first for an NCAA ballpark to do so in the Pacific Northwest), FieldTurf, and, most recently, the $10 million Cougar Baseball Complex that houses locker rooms, cardio and weight room, academic area, team meeting room, and coach’s office completed in 2020. Cougars baseball began in 1982 and has been played regularly since 1898. During that time, the ball club made 16 NCAA Tournament appearances and appeared in four College World Series, finishing as runners-up to Texas in 1950. Food & Beverage 3 A concession stand is located near the entrance of the park (3rd base side) and sells a variety of food and drink items. Besides the concession items of fries, nachos, pretzels, Coca-Cola products, and candy, there is also a grill serving burgers and sausages. There is a loaded fry that comes with bacon bits, cheese, and jalapenos for a different take on the ballpark classic. It is fenced off, and alcohol consumption is allowed only in the designated area of the beer garden. One must finish their drink before returning to their seat to watch the game. MillerCoors products are available by the can. Atmosphere 3 Fans enter the ballpark by the 3rd base side through the Miller Plaza. There are steps leading to the main gates featuring lighting and banners of former ballplayers. The gates themselves are decorated with a cougar inside a baseball emblem, and the grandstand itself is built up against a grass and dirt hill. The seating bowl is open to the elements and features a concourse at the bottom and the top that allows visitors a chance to move around to see the game from different vantage points. Most of the seating is bleacher seating with plastic bottoms with no backs, while a selection of seating behind the home plate features backs. Directly behind the fencing between the diamond and the concourse are the box seats for donors and sponsors of the program. There is a video board in the left-center field installed in 2011 that offers two panels for pitchers and batter stats. Gates open 90 minutes before the games, and all bags must be soft and no larger than 14x8x14 and fit underneath your seat. There is no smoking anywhere inside or near the ballpark. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark isn’t close to much walking-wise except for student housing and dorms, and if you drive into downtown Pullman, you will find a nice selection of restaurants and bars in this college town. They include Paradise Creek Brewery, Foundry Kitchen, My Office Bar & Grill, Porch Light Pizza, and the Lumberyard for farm-to-table fresh food. Fans 3 It was a rather cold day during the review of the stadium. However, the student section was there to “Give ‘Em the Chair”. Fans hold up plastic chairs when an opposing batter is sitting two strikes. They are joined by the school’s mascot Butch T. Cougar in the chanting and cheering. The rest of the fans provided the typical backdrop for a college baseball game to round out the fan experience. Access 4 Bailey-Brayton Field is located on the east side of the camps near the football stadium and the basketball arena. The seating bowl and concourse layout make it easy to move around, and there is ample parking near the ballpark for easy access by car. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Cougars baseball game will cost between $7-$10 for adult tickets and $6 for seniors (age 60 plus and children ages 2-17). Parking is free around the stadium, but permits are required in the Green 5 Beasley lot. Extras 2 The recent ballpark upgrades to improve the experience earn an extra point. These include the fencing, university signage, and the team's new locker rooms. Fans “Give ‘Em the Chair” by holding up plastic chairs when an opposing batter is sitting two strikes is a nice tradition to enjoy while at the game. Final Thoughts An ideal spot for baseball in the part of the state, but bring a blanket for the early spring games. The atmosphere is enjoyable and stadium improvements make it a wonderful way to spend nine innings.

Photos by Jason Karp, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Holt Arena 550 Memorial Dr Pocatello, ID 83209 Idaho State Bengals website Holt Arena website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 12,000 The Dome That Time Forgot Here’s a trivia question: What is the oldest indoor football stadium still in use? The answer, of course, is Idaho State University’s Holt Arena; home of the Bengals. Holt Arena opened in 1970 as the nation’s first indoor football stadium on a college campus and is predated only by the Houston Astrodome. The arena also houses the home court of the Idaho State Bengals men’s basketball team, ISU’s indoor track and field programs, and it hosts concerts, track meets, rodeos, trade shows and many other events. Originally called the Mini Dome, Holt Arena isn’t really a dome at all. It’s an arched roof structure sitting right on top of the ground like a giant quonset hut. The shape is not unlike the numerous potato warehouses scattered all over southeastern Idaho. The building was the inspiration of former ISU athletic director Milton “Dubby” Holt who it might be said, was way ahead of his time. What the building lacks in architectural beauty it makes up in versatility. Idaho State is a charter member of the Big Sky Conference and competes in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) of Division I college football. Food & Beverage 2 Concession stands are located in the entrance corridors behind the grandstands on either side of the arena. The offerings are very basic, but prices are a bargain compared to any other division one college sports venue I’ve been to. A huge bucket of popcorn is $3, a hot dog is only $2, and a small soda is $2. There’s no beer on sale inside the arena, but there was beer available at a stand in the parking lot. Fans can exit and re-enter the arena with their ticket stub to enjoy some tailgating at halftime. Atmosphere 2 Walking into Holt Arena feels like entering a time warp. The late sixties and early seventies utilitarian motif has not changed. The molded plastic seats throughout the arena colored in drab orange, green, and gold will take you back to the Brady Bunch days. However, one huge noticeable improvement is the modern artificial turf that replaced the thinly padded brillo like surface that made Holt Arena feared by opposing teams. The current surface is the same used by the Dallas Cowboys. Another unusual feature is the goal posts hang from the ceiling, so that is one less obstruction for the players to run into. There are equally sized grandstands along both sidelines and no end zone seating. The seating is close to the action. There’s adequate leg room between rows and the plastic seats are more comfortable than the typical metal bleachers found in most college stadiums. The students and band occupy the south side. Visiting fans are located in Section M, also on the south side. With the Bengals struggling, the arena is a little more than half full, but even a small crowd can generate some good noise under the enclosed roof. The PA announcer does a good job of keeping the crowd informed on down and distance and tries hard to get everyone excited on 3rd downs with mixed results. Neighborhood 3 The setting around Holt Arena on the north side of the ISU campus is very parklike with wide expanses of trees and green space. In fact it would be quite a lovely setting for an outdoor stadium. This sentiment is reinforced by viewing ISU’s new practice field just south of the arena among the trees, grass, campus buildings, and the hills overlooking Pocatello. Unfortunately, the beauty of Pocatello’s surroundings is hidden under the ugly roof of Holt Arena during the game. Pocatello, with a population of about 54,000, is a nice clean town in southeast Idaho. There are an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in the area including big game and bird hunting, fishing, and skiing. If touring the area, the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, an ancient volcanic feature, is well worth checking out. The ISU campus is located in a residential section of Pocatello just off of I-15. It’s convenient for visiting fans to stay at one of the many hotels off Pocatello Creek Road at exit 71 (one exit north of the ISU exit) such as the Clarion, Super 8, or Red Lion. There are also several restaurants there including Perkins and the Sandpiper. Downtown Pocatello is about 8 blocks west of Holt Arena via tree lined streets. When downtown, check out the Portneuf Valley Brew Pub, a nice find in a part of the country where brew pubs aren’t so common. Fans 2 Idaho State fans have been longsuffering as the Bengals haven’t won a lot of games over the years. But when the Bengals do have a winning season, such as their fantastic run in 2014, and the fans show up in greater numbers, Holt Arena becomes a significant home field advantage. But even in the midst of a tough losing season, the Bengal fans that make it to Holt Arena wear their Bengal gear with pride and cheer with enthusiasm. I’ve always found Bengal fans to be polite and friendly to visiting fans. They’re just out to have a good time and don’t seem to take things too seriously. Access 3 In the far flung, widespread Big Sky Conference, Idaho State might be the easiest road trip for the most of the Big Sky teams. Pocatello is located at the junction of I-86 and I-15. Holt Arena is right off I-15. Take exit 69, follow Clark Street to S. 15th Avenue and you’ll come right to the huge paved Holt Arena parking lot. There is plenty of room in the large parking lot and the cost to park is only $5. The parking lot is immediately adjacent to the arena so it’s a short walk from your car to the entrances. The area around the arena appears to very walkable and bikeable from the rest of the ISU campus and the residential part of Pocatello. The two sides of the arena mirror each other with twin entry corridors. Once inside, the concession stands and restrooms are in the corridor with several portals leading inside the arena. Section numbers are well marked above the entrances. Pay attention to what section you plan to sit in. If you enter on the wrong side you will have to leave the building and go around on the outside. There is not a concourse inside the building to take you all the way around the field. Restrooms are clean and functional and there aren’t any significant lines or crowding. The staff at the entry doors and the entry portals into the arena are polite, friendly, and helpful. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices range from $17 to $24, parking is $5, and the concession prices are very reasonable. ISU football is a relative bargain compared to other division one football locations, and no matter how bad the weather is outside, it’s always warm and dry inside the dome. Extras 1 A bonus point for the kicking tee-fetching dog , all decked out in a Bengal jersey. The dog flawlessly retrieves the kicking tee off the field after every Bengal kickoff to a big round of applause from both home and visiting fans. Final Thoughts Holt Arena was built at a time when multi-purpose stadiums were all the rage. As the years have gone on, the multi-purpose stadium is fading into history. Holt Arena used to be ahead of its time. It could easily accommodate all of ISU’s sports teams in climate controlled comfort if scheduling would allow. But some sports just need to be played outside, and the building has fallen behind as other college teams spruce up their arenas and stadiums. Holt Arena is in need of some multi-million dollar renovations to bring it up-to-date. Perhaps opening up the sides to allow in natural light would help. Or better yet, construct a new, more reasonably sized basketball arena next door and then rip the roof off and have an outdoor stadium. I’m sure these ideas have passed through ISU – it’s just that such changes would cost tens of millions of dollars. And other than appearances, the building seems to be working just fine.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Bell Centre 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montreal Montreal, QC H3B 5G0 Montreal Canadiens website Bell Centre website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 21,302 Les Habitants Historiques One of the most beloved works of Canadian literature is The Hockey Sweater by Roch Carrier. It tells the story of a young boy in rural Québec and the horror of receiving a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey sweater in error. It tells of the love for Maurice Richard and the importance of hockey. Quite possibly, Carrier provides the best explanation for the love that Quebecers have for Les Habitants. The Montréal Canadiens are the oldest team in the National Hockey League, having been in action since 1909 and they boast twenty four Stanley Cup Championships, more than any other team in the league. They are as synonymous with hockey as the New York Yankees are with baseball and the Boston Celtics are with basketball. Simply put, a trip to see the Canadiens should be at the top of any hockey fan’s bucket list. In 1996, the Canadiens left their venerable home at the Montréal Forum to the brand new Centre Bell. Taking a little time to feel lived in and home, the Bell Centre is now as good an NHL experience as there is. In 2009, the Canadiens were welcomed back into hockey royalty as they were sold once again to the Molson Family, who remains their owner to date. With a hockey dynasty in tow as well as the Bell Centre, the Molsons have seen the Canadiens, once again, become one of the most valuable teams in the NHL. Food & Beverage 5 Centre Bell offers a concession scene that is as good as any other in the NHL. The city of Montreal is a culinary leader with probably the most locally unique cuisine in the country. All of the expected regulars can be found at Centre Bell. Local favourite, Lafleur hot dogs are prominently featured in the arena and are joined by Pizza Pizza stands. Fans may be prepared to look for mais soufflé, frites or croustilles as opposed to popcorn fries and chips. On the main or upper levels, poutine and peanut butter brownie cheesecake will catch the attention of fans. However, the best options may be found in the sub level, where M2 Marché MTL offers a very unique culinary experience. Tex Mex, BBQ, Italian sandwiches, burgers, sushi and specialty hot dogs can all be found at five different, food court style restaurants. Coca-Cola products are the soft drinks of choice at Centre Bell. A curious characteristic of the patrons of Centre Bell is that beer is not the overwhelming alcoholic beverage of choice as it is in most other arenas. Molson Export is the most popular beer in the arena but Coors Light, Molson Ultra and Heineken are among other varieties available. Wines, spirits and especially coolers are very popular at Centre Bell Atmosphere 5 Located in the heart of Montréal, Centre Bell is similar to other arenas in that it is almost inconspicuous due to the surrounding high rises. It is possible to be two blocks from the arena and not even know it. The exterior of Centre Bell is fine; not unattractive but not overly special either. Before the game, or even when around the arena during a non-game time, it is a must for fans to head to the east side of the arena where La Cour Rio Tinto resides. This square is a terrific meeting place and has a ton of history to it. The bronze statues of Guy Lafleur, Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau and Howie Morenz represent distinctly different eras for the Habs. On the wall behind the Richard statue are 24 marble plaques, each for a Stanley Cup victory. On the opposite side of the statues are permanent displays for each of the retired numbers in Canadiens history including Jacques Plante, Dickie Moore, Doug Harvey, Maurice Richard, Emile Bouchard, Elmer Lach, Howie Morenz, Bernie Geoffrion, Jean Béliveau, Henri Richard, Yvan Cournoyer, Ken Dryden Serge Savard, Patrick Roy, Bob Gainey, Larry Robinson, Guy Lafleur and Guy Lapointe. The logo commemorating the history of the team and a GoHabsGo sign are also great photo opportunities. There are also a number of large bricks on the ground commemorating important moments in Canadiens history, like when Jacques Plante became the first goaltender to wear a mask. Pregame festivities are found here and muskoka chairs and propane fireplaces are put out for the perfect meeting place. Entering Centre Bell will lead fans past a few displays. Young fans may want to hang out in Youppi’s corner featuring the former mascot of the Montréal Expos and current Habs mascot. The upper concourse has displays for all of the members of the Canadiens Ring of Honour. They are also displayed on the walls behind the seating bowl. Montreal Canadiens Ring of Honour include those whose numbers are retired and Toe Blake, Scotty Bowman, Pat Burns, Guy Carbonneau, Joseph Cattarinich, Chris Chelios, Sprague Cleghorn, Leo Dandurand, Dick Duff, Bill Durnan, Herb Gardiner, Tommy Gormon, George Hainsworth, Joe Hall, Tom Johnson, Aurele Joliat, Newsy Lalonde, Rod Langway, Jacques Laperriere, Jack Laviolette, Jacques Lemaire, Frank Mahovlich, Joe Malone, Sylvio Mantha, Hartland Molson, William Northey, Ambrose O’Brien, Buddy O’Connor, Bert Olmstead, Didier Pitre, Sam Pollock, Donat Raymond, Ken Reardon, Mark Recchi, Denis Savard, Frank Selke, Steve Shutt, Babe Siebert, Rogie Vachon, Georges Vezina and Gump Worsley. The history continues in a corner featuring the team pictures of all of the Stanley Cup winning teams and other artifacts. The seating bowl continues to drip with history. The retired banners hang proudly as well as the Stanley Cup banners for 1916, 1924, 1930, 1931, 1944, 1946, 19523, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1986 and 1993. A nice touch is the Montréal Expos banner for the retired numbers of Rusty Staub, Tim Raines, Andre Dawson and Gary Carter. The seating bowl itself is huge with a capacity of over 21,000 red stadium seats and a press box that hangs over the seating bowl so as not to obstruct any views or take up any space. The game day production balances traditional with modern. Traditional organ music is played during the pregame and once the warmups happen, modern music takes over. The Habs feature an original goal song to the team and Youppi can be found around the arena. Overall, this place drips history and is unlike any other. Although the Habs may feel a little in your face from a distance or when watching on television, it is hard not to get into the spirit and feel some goosebumps when you are in person. Neighbourhood 5 Montréal is one of the great cities in North America. Located right downtown, Centre Bell is situated perfectly near bars, restaurants and hotels. A pregame meal at La Cage, right in Centre Bell is a great idea if planned properly. Other great options within seconds of the arena are Bier Markt, Ye Olde Orchard and Madisons. The Sheraton, Marriott and Best Western are all within walking distance, which is the best option. The Bell Centre is also two blocks from Sainte-Catherine Street, which has more options than can be listed here. Other sporting options in Montréal include CF Montréal of Major League Soccer that play at Stade Saputo and the Montréal Alouettes of the CFL that play on the nearby campus of McGill University at Percival Molson Memorial Stadium. The McGill Redbirds also play football at Molson Stadium, as well as basketball and hockey at the McGill Sports Centre and McConnell Arena. The Concordia Stingers, UQAM Citadins and Montréal Carabins also field USports teams at a variety of campus facilities. One more must do for hockey fans in Montréal is to head to the former Montréal Forum, which now houses offices and a movie theatre, to take in a little more hockey nostalgia. There are plenty of other Montréal attractions around, including the Olympic sites from the 1976 games and the Biodome. Coming to town for the Jazz Festival or Comedy Festival may also be of interest. Fans 5 Les Habitants have enjoyed some of the greatest fan support in any sport. Consistently near the top of the attendance standings with a huge capacity at Centre Bell, sellouts are a forgone conclusion for the Canadiens. Habs fans take it to a whole new level, with a noise level that rivals just about any fanbase, and a dedication that is like no other. In Montréal, hockey is like theatre. Fans do not head for the exits during play or hang out in the concourses during the game. Hockey is paramount in Montréal and everything else is window dressing. Although they have been accused of being arrogant, it is difficult to argue with the dedication that Habs fans display. Access 3 Centre Bell is located in the heart of Downtown Montréal and is not the easiest place to get to. Montréal traffic is as significant as that of its sister big cities like Toronto and Los Angeles. Centre Bell is located just north of Highway 136 and south of Highway 138. However, these are not fast moving, especially during rush hours or when fans are heading toward a game. The best ideas for the easiest traversing of Montréal traffic during game day are to either take public transit or to stay in one of the numerous hotels within walking distance of the arena. Within a few steps of Centre Bell, there are numerous public transit options including bus stops, the train station and subway stations. Fans should investigate the Société de Transport de Montréal website for fares, maps and schedules. There are a few parking garages in the immediate area, however, getting out of Downtown after the game is even more challenging than getting to the arena. Gridlock is a real issue with those garages all emptying to the narrow, Downtown Montréal streets. Montréal Canadiens fans are unique in that the focus is much more on hockey than anything else that is part of the experience. That being said, getting around the concourses is extremely easy, during gameplay. Getting around the arena during intermissions and before or after the game is a lot more challenging. There are decent washroom facilities at Centre Bell, but expect lines during those peak times. With the coronavirus pandemic and continuously changing security measures, Stadium Journey recommends that fans consult the Montréal Canadiens and Centre Bell websites for the most up to date security procedures and requirements before heading to the arena. Return on Investment 3 According to the 2021-2022 NHL Fan Cost Index, the Montréal Canadiens are in the upper echelon of expensive experiences. Coming in at over $550 in the index, the Canadiens come in at 7th, almost $100 north of the league average. Although the Canadiens and their fans provide one of the greatest hockey environments in the world, it is undeniable that it is an expensive proposition. However, it remains undeniable that the Canadiens are a bucket list experience for all puckheads! Extras 4 An extra mark for the epic rivalry the Habs share with the Boston Bruins, which is the true Montréal rival as opposed to the Maple Leafs An extra mark for embracing the history and successes of the franchise more than any other team in the NHL. An extra mark for the peppering of Français throughout the game. Fait du Bruit! Le But! An extra mark for the experience at the old Montréal Forum, which is a great spot for some Habs nostalgia. Final Thoughts Without a doubt, a trip to Centre Bell to see the Montréal Canadiens needs to be near the top of any hockey bucket list. Although the arena itself is not earth shattering, the Canadiens put on a terrific product, even when the team is down. The fans add to the dynamic more than any other fanbase in the NHL. Finally, a trip to see the Habs is as much a trip through hockey history as any experience there is.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Tal Anderson Field 2850 S 67th St Omaha, NE 68106 Omaha Mavericks website Tal Anderson Field website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 1,500 Tal Anderson Field Tal Anderson Field is home to the Omaha Mavericks of the Summit League. Anderson Field opened on March 5, 2021, in a game which saw the Mavericks drop a 10-3 decision to fellow Omaha team, the Creighton Blue Jays. The venue is named after Tal Anderson, a longtime supporter of the program and a former catcher on the team. The field is located directly next to Connie Claussen Field, home of the Mavericks softball team. The stadiums share part of the facility, which include the restrooms and concession areas. Prior to this venue, the baseball team played at numerous locations throughout Omaha. The stadium was completely financed through private money and is a huge upgrade from the prior venues the team has called home. Food & Beverage 3 The ballpark is cashless, so be sure and bring a card. The menu here isn’t extensive. There’s everything you would expect and nothing you wouldn’t expect. That being said, the prices here are worth at least an extra star in this category. Food options range from $2.50-$3. Your choices are hot dogs, brats, nachos, chips, pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, and candy. Drinks are $2.50 and your choices are Pepsi products (bottles), coffee, hot chocolate, water, and Gatorade. Beer tallboys run $7 and include Bud, Bud Light, Busch Light, Blue Moon, and Leinenkugel’s. Atmosphere 4 There is one entrance, in the right field corner. Upon getting to the top of the steps, you get a great view of the entire park. Stadium seats run from dugout to dugout, with grass berms from the dugouts to foul poles and part of the outfield. The lone concession area and press box sit behind home plate along with the restrooms. A nicely groomed synthetic surface gives the field an aesthetically pleasing look. The video board sits beyond the right-center field wall and is visible from everywhere in the park. The simplicity of the layout really adds to the experience here. As typical, there are some on-field promotions throughout the game. A nice touch here is the sound system. The walk-up music and other audio can sometimes bombard the senses. Here, the music is certainly loud enough but hardly overwhelming. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark is in an area that houses other sporting venues, medical centers, some residential spots, etc. As such, there isn’t much to walk to if you are looking for food or drinks before or after the game, but there are some options within a short drive. The closest food options would be either Mai Thai Omaha or Jimi D’s which serves both Italian and traditional American food. For drinks and traditional bar food, head north on 72nd St and stop by the Pipeline Tavern. For lodging, there are also a few options, mostly near the 72nd St exit off I-80. Your best bets here are the Doubletree by Hilton and the Courtyard Marriott. Be sure and check the schedule while you are in town. You may be able to head to downtown Omaha to catch a Creighton Blue Jays game at TD Ameritrade Park (home of the College World Series), or head out to Werner Park to take in an Omaha Stormchasers (AAA) game. Fans 3 The Mavs have a decent following. The stands weren’t near full, but those there were loud and seem to be regular attendees as everyone appeared to know each other. They knew the players and sensed the important parts of the game. Access 4 There is a clear bag policy in effect here. The ballpark is located just east of I-80 in Omaha. Take the 72nd St exit and you’ll be there in a couple minutes. Be sure to have your GPS as there aren’t signs directing you from all directions. Upon arrival, there is plenty of parking across the street. From there, a quick walk up some stairs and you are at the park. Once inside, getting around is no problem whatsoever, the restrooms are more than sufficient for a typical crowd, and although there is only one concession stand, when there is a line, it moves very quickly. Return on Investment 4 The tickets are on the high side for college baseball. Adults are $15 and kids can get in for $7. You can buy premium seating for $20 but the stadium has great seats throughout, so it is worth saving a few bucks on tickets. Parking is free and with the low concession prices, attending a game here is a really good deal. . Extras 2 If you schedule things right, you can see a doubleheader since the baseball and softball teams share the same area. A fun challenge for kids, if you get a foul ball, you can bring it back for free ice cream. Final Thoughts Tal Anderson Field is a massive step up from the many different venues the team used to play at. There is nothing fancy here, but this is a really nice and relaxing place to watch a college baseball game. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram : @stadiumjwriter

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Ford Center 5600 Division St. Evansville, IN 47715 Ford Center website Evansville Purple Aces website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 10,000 It’s All Aces in Evansville The Ford Center in downtown Evansville, Indiana has been to the home to the University of Evansville men’s’ basketball program since 2010. The construction of the $127.5 million facility helped bring the university into the 21st century replacing the 54-year-old. The venue hopes to be the centerpiece of entertainment for the city incorporating a gorgeous design that is both modern and contemporary. The facility holds 8,930 spectators for basketball games and features 21 suites that can accommodate a wide range of individuals, curved spaces that offer wide open window scenes to the downtown area, and every seat is padded for comfort. It is the type of venue the city has been searching for and very impressive for a basketball team in the Missouri Valley Conference. Food & Beverage 3 There are various concession areas throughout the main concourse that offers hot dogs, bratwurst, chicken tenders, pizza, mini corn dogs, French fries, popcorn, pretzels, and nachos. The prices are reasonable, and there is something for everyone. The more unique options are highlighted by chipotle cheddar burgers, loaded nachos with chicken or beef, pork tenderloin sandwiches, and grilled chicken sandwiches. The nachos are big enough to share for two and are a bargain at $8. If you are with the kids, they will enjoy chicken tender baskets and Dippin’ Dots ice cream. Bud and Bud Light cans sell for $7.25 a can and local Carson’s Red Dawn and Tin Man Rivet are on tap for $8. Wine and well drinks are also available costing between $7.25-$8. Atmosphere 3 There is a large contingency that attends games throughout the season. The arena is a modern facility that would look beautiful and stunning in most major downtown locations. It does not have a lot of history or character, but it’s a beautiful place to watch a basketball game and when you’re surrounded by thousands of screaming fans, it’s easy to get into the game. For these reasons, the atmosphere borderlines on good to great. There are two levels of seats inside the Ford Center, but the majority of the seating upstairs is closed off by a black tarp. The bottom section on one side is wide open and features a party area that serves alcohol. The arena feels like a hockey facility that also incorporates basketball, but there are still some great views and angles inside and outside of the court. The main halls outside of the playing area may remind many of the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, where open concept windows, arched wooden paneling, and modern design add a special ambiance. However, there seems to be a lot of empty space inside the arena that seems wasted. For example, the majority of fans convene in about half of the concession area and are not spread out all around the concourse where there could be more food options set up. There is a lot of room for portable stands, merchandise tables, and information kiosks that could add a lot of potential to this arena. Neighborhood 3 The Ford Center is in a nice part of downtown that appears to be up and coming. Fans walking the streets before and after the game are within a stone’s throw away from the Backstage Bar and Grill, Milano Italian Cuisine, and the Children’s Museum. Less than two miles away is Franklin Street which offers a few additional great restaurants including Lamasco Bar, Gerst Haus, and on Saturdays from late June to September the Franklin Street Bazaar. Tin Man and Carson’s Brewery are two great places for craft beer, especially Carson’s where one can sample 25 different beers including Vanilla Cow, Sweet Leaf, and Red Hot Harlot, cinnamon-infused honey blonde ale. Tami will serve you quite well in the tasting room. There are plenty of lodging options in Evansville. They include the Fairfield Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Suites, and Baymont Inn & Suites. The only decision is price and location, but you’re sure to find a nice price somewhere in town. Fans 4 Everybody loves a winner and when the Aces are winning the fans come out in masses. Everywhere you look around the arena there are fans sporting the colors of purple and orange. You can also hear the decibel levels reach outstanding proportions based on the number of buckets scored by the home team. They really enjoy a winning team and when they play inside a beautiful arena, you’re going to have some loud and passionate fans. Access 4 Being a downtown location you would think it would be difficult to find a parking spot. However, that is not the case for the Ford Center. There is free parking a couple blocks away from the arena in vast lots. Many locals complain about the distance, but the walk does not seem to be that much of a problem. Inside the arena, there are plenty of restrooms that serve both men, women, and families. Return on Investment 3 The tickets are reasonable for most basketball games played at the Ford Center. One could grab a ticket for as low as $15 or as high as $45. It all depends on how much you want to spend for a college basketball game. When you include free parking and affordable concession prices, you have a pretty good deal. Extras 3 The arena has all the bells and whistles of a modern 21st-century sports and entertainment facility. The fans are incredibly loud inside the facility. It might just be the acoustics inside the building, but the cacophony from the 6,000 or so in attendance is ear piercing In the main lobby, there is a very nice display of Aces history that includes the five Division II championships won by the team between 1959 and 1971 under legendary coach Arad McCutchan, along with famous alumni including Jerry Sloan. There is also a memorial to the 1977 Air Indiana Flight 216 crash that killed 24 members of the basketball team. Final Thoughts What I enjoy most about the Ford Center is that the modern, sleek, and state of art facility is perfect for the city. It does not try to be something it’s not. It’s a great entertainment option for southwest Indiana and should be home for Purple Aces basketball for many more decades. It’s definitely an eye-catching facility, and being able to take in a game at affordable prices with free parking makes this a great option.

A small Indiana town between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne is the center of college basketball one night in December. The annual Taylor University Silent Night Game is not your typical college basketball game. The small Christian college in Upland has an enrollment of 2,376 plus, but it becomes the center of attention on a frigid December night. The Silent Night Game might be one of the best traditions you have never heard about. It began in 1997, but students have attended the game in pajamas since the late 1980s. Students camp out days before the game to secure a prime spot inside the gym; once they are allowed to enter on game day, they are dressed in elaborate costumes. Students are dressed up as burgers, Krispy Kreme employees, highlanders, ducks, and Minions. The rest of the general admission ticket holders wait inside the lobby before they find a seat an hour before the game. The festivities include students taking shots and dunks on the open net, singing in unison, and showing off their light bracelets.  When the game begins, the gymnasium is quiet except for players' sneakers squeaking on the court. No one peeps until the 10th point is scored; when it happens, the entire student section storms the court in celebration. It is a spectacular scene with the multiple colors of the costumes dripping onto the basketball court. After everything is over, the students go back to their seats, and the game begins, with cheering and screaming from the entire audience. Taylor’s opponent was Moody Bible College, who looked more like the Washington Generals at times during the game. The Trojans had a series of dunks and fast-break plays that excited the crowd, which remained active throughout the night. Several students run onto the court during timeouts to put on small skits, students sing renditions of popular songs, and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb makes an appearance during halftime. The students surrounding the court are about three rows deep and hover as close to the court as possible.  The game ends with the singing of “Silent Night” in the final minutes of the game. The entire building sings shoulder-to-shoulder the traditional Christmas song that caps off a magical night on the campus of Taylor University.  Taylor has an impressive 26-1 record, and The Silent Night tradition is more than just a basketball game—it’s a testament to the power of community, the creativity of students, and the joy of shared experiences. It stands out in the landscape of college sports for its combination of humor, celebration, and reverence. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Camping World Stadium 1 Citrus Bowl Pl Orlando, FL 32805 Citrus Bowl website Camping World Stadium website Year Opened: 1936 Capacity: 65,000 Florida’s Other New Year’s Day Matchup The annual Citrus Bowl matchup is steeped in college football history, having been around since 1947. While many may look to the typical “New Year’s Six” bowl games for college football greatness, the Citrus Bowl has been one of the other top bowl games during the season that commonly brings two of the top programs together for a titanic clash. Coupled with a long history in the Central Florida community, the Citrus Bowl offers something for everyone in the family, and is arguably one of the best ways to spend New Year’s. Food & Beverage 4 Finding food at Camping World Stadium is easy. For those in the suite levels, the food options are incredibly plentiful. The main suite on the recently renovated west side of the stadium features a full-service bar and buffet, and outside of that are several bars with comfortable tables, chairs, and couches. In the main concourse the north end zone features a taco stand as well as some other food options. For the majority of food vendors a quality hot dog will cost you $4.50, while a chef’s choice game day hot dog costs $7; nachos are $5, popcorn is $4.50, peanuts run $4.75, and a large pretzel costs $4. In addition, arepas are available all over the stadium for fans to get a taste of Florida. But the best food option remains anything from the 4 Rivers BBQ booths, a local barbecue chain that has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its quality meats and sauces. If you’re a nacho fan looking for something bigger, the Rio Grande Pork Nachos cost $10, and include shredded lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes, and can also have chicken added for no charge. A rice bowl runs just $10 with pork or chicken, black beans, and diced tomatoes. A cheeseburger with fries costs $12, as do chicken fingers with fries. A spicy buffalo chicken sandwich with pepper jack cheese and fries also runs $12, while a side of fries by itself costs $4.50. For beverages, a regular beer (Bud Light or Budweiser) costs $8, a large beer runs $11, and an import beer (Stella Artois) costs $11. Bottled water runs $5, while a bottled soda will cost you $5.50. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere at Camping World Stadium is electric, and thanks to the Citrus Bowl being a game between two power conference foes with great records, you are bound to get a solid matchup that excites even the most modest of fans. The pre-game pageantry of the band performances, the exciting game action, and the feel of a bowl-game matchup all make the Citrus Bowl an exciting game to be a part of. There is also plenty of beautiful scenery, with downtown Orlando just to the east and lakes to the north and south of the stadium. The upper deck is open, and for good reason, as the game regularly attracts crowds that can reach nearly 60,000 fans. Being in Florida in January also means the weather is almost always perfect, rarely getting cooler than the 50s. The fans erupt with every big play, and the pageantry of college football is on full display. Neighborhood 5 What can you say about downtown Orlando? With Camping World Stadium within walking distance of downtown, fans can park in any of the various lots and garages downtown, then walk to and from the stadium along Church Street, the hub of Orlando’s rebirth as a foodie and entertainment destination. The City of Orlando has become a sports-thirsty destination over the last few years – with the explosion in popularity of Orlando City SC and a renewed interest in the Orlando Magic , the City Beautiful loves sports. There are suburbs to the west of Camping World Stadium, with the downtown city center to the east. There are also tons of hotels nearby, and since the venue sits next to I-4, getting to other resorts and hotels in the greater Orlando area is not hard to do either. If you want to stay somewhere nearby, Aloft Downtown Orlando and the Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando are right in the middle of downtown. For food, the Orlando sports faithful flock to Lion’s Pride as well as Schumann’s Jager Haus. For attractions, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando are both mere minutes south of the downtown area. Fans 5 Camping World Stadium holds 65,000 fans, and almost every year all the seats are packed. The crowd still explodes with cheers, and the event is one of the most family-friendly games around. With the teams being from Power 5 conferences the fan bases travel very well, leading to a packed crowd of over 60,000 screaming with fervor for their favorite team on the field. The electricity that resonates through the stands makes this a game that fans look forward to attending. The tailgating pre-game is also widespread, with parking areas several blocks away playing host to big parties all the way up to kickoff. But the best part is that the fans are a mix of traveling fans and locals, as the community embraces the game fully regardless of the competitors on the field. Access 5 Camping World Stadium sits just a stone’s throw from I-4 and is literally just off the 408 highway. Getting there is not difficult from the local roads either, as most are multi-lane, and signage is well placed for the parking areas. Parking on site is plentiful and easy to find. For those without a parking pass, you can find parking in various nearby parking lots and from those selling parking in their front yards. Public transport is also available in the area, making getting to Camping World Stadium an easy process. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to the Citrus Bowl are likely to go quickly, with the game selling out most premiere tickets right after the teams are announced. You may also pay a bit more for this game, both at face value and on the secondary market, due to the quality of the teams participating. Getting the experience of a college bowl game is always enjoyable for sports fans in general, and getting to watch one in Florida in the winter makes it even better. Orlando is blessed with great weather, never too cold or too hot in January, meaning you will be comfortable no matter where you are from. Extras 4 The Citrus Bowl features plenty of in-game awards given away to athletes and local volunteers. Also, the pre-game and halftime performances feature both of the school’s bands, adding to the college pageantry fans know and love, and there is also a pre-game fan fest that includes a pre-game concert, photo opportunities with mascots, band performances, VIP tents, and interactive displays. Finally, the Citrus Bowl also features the post-game trophy presentation that championship events are known for, completing the championship feel of the event for fans in the stands. Final Thoughts The Citrus Bowl is one of three bowl games in Orlando, and while it may not be as inexpensive as the Cure Bowl , it is no less worthy of your attendance; the marquee matchup at the Citrus Bowl makes for a great game product on the field – it is the gold standard for Bowl Season in Central Florida. Camping World Stadium is also much more enjoyable since its recent renovation, and that means you will feel a lot more comfortable during your visit. Fans often marvel at the comfort of the facility and its ease of movement throughout the concourse – this is definitely one of the top sporting events in the whole state of Florida every year, if not the country.

Photos by Cory Sims, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Fred Bramlage Coliseum 1800 College Ave Manhattan, KS 66502 Kansas State Wildcats website Bramlage Coliseum website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 12,528 Bramlage Coliseum - The Octagon of Doom The Kansas State Wildcats have been a team of extremes for decades, either making a run of Final Fours from 1948-1964 or missing the tournament entirely for a dozen straight years in the 90s and 00s. The fans pack the "Octagon of Doom" when the hated Jayhawks are in town, but you could have a bleacher to yourself if you attended many other games. That makes Bramlage either one of the loudest venues in college basketball, or one of the tamest. In recent years, the team usually overachieves based on its talent, sharing a piece of the Big 12 regular season title in 2013, and claiming an upset over top-ranked Oklahoma at home in 2016. But, this is a school and fan base that worships at Bill Snyder Family Stadium , so oftentimes the achievements of the hoops squad are somewhat ignored. Following the departure of successful and beloved coach Frank Martin, and the hire of the uninspiring Bruce Weber, the future of Wildcats hoops is unknowable. Bramlage is nearing 30 years old, so the concourse feels a little dated with its ruffled concrete walls and lack of windows. But, there are a lot worse ways to waste a Winter day in Manhattan, Kansas than to attend a home game in the Purple Hell. Food & Beverage 3 Nothing unique here, although the prices are modest. My general opinion on food at a two-hour basketball game is to limit it to snacks and find a good local place before or after the game, and Bramlage delivers in that respect. Pretzels, nachos, and popcorn can be had at just about any concession stand, as well as Pepsi products in a small or souvenir size. You can also find brats, burgers, and chili cheese dogs for between $5 and $6, so go for it if you're really that hungry. There is also a nacho cart in one corner of the concourse, but there's no unique ingredients or anything memorable about it. The only local food stand that sticks out is a table set up by the Friendship House which serves homemade baked items, BBQ sandwiches, and bierocks (welcome to the heartland). Atmosphere 3 There is a single concourse at the top of the arena, and all the seats descend down from there, kind of like a bowl. That seems to keep the noise in and makes the whole place feel cozier than the nearly 13,000 capacity. Of course, all of that makes for a fairly raucous environment, given the right opponent. The students, like at any college basketball game, are good for a lot of yelling and creative sign-holding, and they also stand the whole game (as they should). There are regular seats for the higher budget crowd, but a majority of the seating is metal bleachers. There is a pep band, but most of the music is piped in through speakers. A lot of song choices seem to come from a Jock Jams type compilation album. Beside that, the fans love Darude's 1999 techno song "Sandstorm" more than I will ever love anything or anyone. There was literally a student holding a sign saying "We want Sandstorm." When they put that CD in the boombox, generally following a KSU mini scoring run, the Octagon of Doom quickly turns into the underground rave scene your parents used to hear about on the evening news. Do they not realize that a dozen other schools prominently use that song at sporting events, and that it's not a Wildcat original? Neighborhood 3 Manhattan is known as the Little Apple, and that is where the comparisons to the more famous Manhattan ends. This town, about two hours west of Kansas City, is more or less the last city of any size before you hit Denver eight hours later. It is truly a college town, which is a good thing, but it also has a military feel due to the nearby Fort Riley. Because of this, you see a lot more purple and digitized camo pattern than you would ever expect to see in the Big Apple. The university, and in particular, the sports complex is not located in the heart of the city, which means you aren't able to walk from the famous Aggieville over to Bramlage, which is too bad. Aggieville is the bar and restaurant district named for a time when Kansas State University used to be called Kansas State Agricultural College. On a weekend night, there is a large crowd of undergrads and soldiers enjoying the atmosphere at any one of nearly 20 bars or clubs. Because of the quantity of options, there's rarely a line or cover charge for any of these hot spots, and they've all carved out a niche in the saturated market. One great place to stop prior to a game is Varsity Donuts. It's right in Aggieville, and is well-known for tasty and unique offerings. There's plenty of casual chains in the district (Pita Pit, Jimmy John's, Chipotle to name a few), as well as several local pizzerias/delis/taverns. Local boutiques and KSU fan gear stores put a bow on an area that's worth a couple hours of your time. Fans 3 The Wildcat faithful are most fervent at the football games. But, when the hated Kansas Jayhawks make the annual trek to Bramlage, the claws come out. I do believe that a KSU fan's identity is half loving K State, and half hating KU. They loathe the "chickenhawks" coming over from "Snob Hill." It's gotten so bad in recent years that the AD and school president, amongst others, have had to issue apologies for the behavior of the fans, and most notably, the marching band. However, if you're not sensitive to a few F-bombs, then a KU-KSU game is one of the better sports experiences in college basketball. The fans arrive early, they chant loud and often, and they are actively engaged in the game, booing every unfair foul (all of them). The claws retract when the Jayhawks leave town. They may mostly fill the stands when a highly ranked opponent visits, but many games are not well-attended or very exciting. Part of this is because a sizable portion of the alumni live in Kansas City, and it's just too difficult to get to Manhattan for weeknight games when the drive takes as long as the game itself. Access 4 Although getting to Manhattan might be difficult for the masses, once you're there it's easy to get tickets and get to the game. Because the football and basketball venues share space on the edge of campus, away from downtown, there is plenty of parking lots and space for the crowds. Parking is $10, and you're best off paying that to park in a lot, because there's nowhere within walking distance to be able to park for free. There are enough scalpers around that you can easily pick up a ticket walking into the arena, and once you're inside it's easy to find seats, concessions, restrooms, etc. There can be a traffic jam exiting the parking lot at the end of the game, but you end up right on the street that takes you around town to the highway. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to many home games can be had for less than $10 online, so the investment, outside of a major rivalry game, is minimal. Parking doesn't cost much, so your biggest investment is time spent getting to the arena, assuming you don't live in Manhattan already. However, in life you generally get what you pay for, so if you are really interested in going to a KSU basketball game, splurge and pay the $100+ dollars to watch the Wildcats and the Jayhawks . The game is rarely a blowout, and every so often the Cats pull an upset and the fans storm the court. As a neutral observer, or a Wildcats fan, there're few sites more entertaining. Extras 3 KSU has some interesting traditions that make the atmosphere unique. First off, the nickname for Bramlage, the Octagon of Doom. This started up in earnest back in the Frank Martin years when the Cats were playing good ball and made a run to the Elite Eight. The arena is built into a hill in an octagon shape, so when the Wildcats are good, I suppose other teams may find their doom in the octagon. Additionally, the slogan "EMAW" is something only KSU fans would use. "Every Man a Wildcat" has found a renewed popularity on the campus, so don't be surprised if you see it plastered across signs and shirts all over town. Finally, the Wabash Cannonball . Prior to the game, and at least once during the game, the band plays the Wabash Cannonball and the students, and much of the crowd, rock forward and back in harmony. They seem to be really enjoying themselves, but to the outsider, it's something of a mystery.

Photos by Will Halpern, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Rhodes Stadium 1 Stadium Dr Elon, NC 27244 Elon Phoenix website Rhodes Stadium website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 13,100 The Phoenix Rise at Rhodes Stadium Founded in 1889, Elon College started its football program twenty years later. Spending time in the North State and South Atlantic Conferences in the NAIA and then in Division II, Elon rose to the Division I ranks in 1999, ninety years after the football program began. Known first as the Fightin’ Christians, they decided to adopt a more inclusive name as they entered the NCAA’s top division. The name “Phoenix” comes from the 1923 fire that destroyed much of campus – the trustees wanted to make the school “rise from the ashes” like a phoenix. The following year the school became Elon University. Starting out in the Big South Conference, in 2003 the university joined the Southern Conference, where they stayed for the next eleven years before finally moving into the Colonial Athletic Conference where they compete today. The team first played off-campus at Burlington Athletic Stadium in neighboring Burlington, but since 2001 they’ve called the on-campus Rhodes Stadium home. Food & Beverage 5 Rhodes Stadium boasts a wide variety of local food options. This is surprising for an FCS school, where usually you expect basic stadium food and not much more. The food is also reasonably priced as well; a hot dog or a slice of pizza is just three dollars. An Elon Pit Beef Sandwich, which consists of beef, sweet onions, and horseradish ketchup on a potato roll will set you back only seven dollars, while six dollars can get you Vegan Chick’n Nuggets or San Guiseppe’s Local Sausage of the day, and that’s all at one concessions stand. Cockadoolemoo, a food truck, offers either wet or dry rub ribs, or you can get a mixture of both, as well a pulled pork sandwich with your choice of either Eastern-style Vinegar or Western-style Tomato (or both!). Given Elon’s location right in the middle of the geographic NC BBQ debate, and given that 80% of Elon students are from outside the Tar Heel State, the choice allows those new to the battle for BBQ supremacy to weigh in for themselves. Bojangles Cajun Filet Sandwich, as well as crab cake and vegetarian crab cake sandwiches, round out the main courses, and the Nutn’ But Luv stand offers pecans, almonds, and cashews. For popcorn, Charlie’s Popcorn and Kettle Corn is the place to go, while for dessert, Pelican’s Snoballs offer thirteen different flavors of Italian Ice, or at the local Smitty’s Ice Cream stand you can choose from among eight different flavors. Pepsi is the soft drink option here, and while alcohol sales are expanding at college football stadiums, Rhodes Stadium does not offer any adult beverages at the moment. Atmosphere 5 Rhodes Stadium is definitely not a large stadium by any means, as the total capacity comes in at 11,250, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more space to pack in fans. The stadium has seating on both sides – those on the east side (sections 108-112) are bleacher seating that is usually taken by those rooting for the visitors. The west side seating has two levels, with sections 200, 201, 206-208, and 105-107 being standard bleacher seating, while sections 202-205 have chair backs. Sections 101-104 are reserved for students, and the rest of the seating area consists of lawn seating, with the south side being known as Phoenix Hill. The hill allows people to relax and take in a game on the grass from almost anywhere around the stadium, unlike most stadiums where lawn seating, if it exists at all, is usually behind an end zone. If you’re looking to sit in the shade, it’s important to arrive early as (especially during early-season games) those seats can fill up quickly. There is a video board in the northeast corner of the stadium next to the Alumni Field House, and Elon like most schools, has a cheerleading squad and a mascot, and their marching band “The Fire of the Carolinas” is fantastic. The fact that the stadium doesn’t have a track means that fans have an even more intimate view of the field. The fans are passionate and can make the stadium loud on game day, which provides a perfect combination of a relaxing and electric place to take in a game. Neighborhood 3 Rhodes Stadium is located on the north end of campus alongside the other athletic facilities such as Latham Park and Rudd Field, home to the baseball and soccer programs, as well as the Elon Bell Tower, and across the street from the new Schar Center, which is home to Elon’s men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. Elon is a small college town, with the university encompassing the town of Elon and vice versa. That being said, there are places to check out near Rhodes Stadium – a mile and a half away right on the Elon-Gibsonville border is The Mission: The Tacos for the South, where Mexican meets Southern with options such as The Carolina Pork Taco with pimento cheese, roasted pork and BBQ sauce, and southern nachos, with pork, BBQ sauce, chorizo, and sour cream. Or, a short fifteen-minute walk south of the stadium is Tangent Eat and Bar with unique kinds of tacos for under four dollars each. For example, there are the chicken and waffle taco, bahn mi tofu taco, and fried green tomato taco, as well as fried rice and fried corn on the cob, along with a great drink selection. It is also worth driving to neighboring Burlington – about a ten-minute drive southeast – to Hursey’s Bar-B-Q, which offers incredible Piedmont style BBQ (a combination of both Eastern and Western) with delicious sandwiches and plates, and some of the most incredible hush puppies ever served. The town of Elon itself doesn’t have much to do, though it is worth taking a walk around campus, as Elon was voted the prettiest campus in the country by the Princeton Review a number of times. However, Burlington is just a short drive away and there is a fair amount to do there. Animal lovers can check out the Animal Park at the Conservators Center to see more than twenty species of animals up close, including lions, tigers, and wolves, while those who enjoy shopping can check out Granddaddy’s Antique Mall, take a stroll in historic downtown Burlington, or shop at Alamance Crossing, or a little further away at the Tanger Outlets in Mebane. History buffs can check out the Alamance Battleground in Burlington, a pre-revolutionary war battleground where farmers clashed with Governor Tryon’s Regulators in 1771. Or, those with children can visit City Park in Burlington which features a playground, train, boat ride, and an early twentieth-century carousel being refurbished and expected to be finished in 2021, or you can drive down to Graham for the Children’s Museum of Alamance County. The closest hotel to the stadium (a half mile away) is the luxury twelve suite Acorn Inn, but if the prices are too steep or rooms are sold out, the next closest hotels are about a ten-minute drive south in Burlington, where you’ll find a number of the classic hotel chains such as Best Western, Courtyard by Marriott, and Country Inn and Suites. Fans 4 Elon University has an unfortunate situation in certain ways; it’s located within an hour of four Power Five ACC schools in Wake Forest , Duke , UNC , and NC State , and therefore has a lot of bigger dogs to contend with. Also, Elon has a student body of just under 7,000 students so normally in that situation it would be easy to expect sparse crowds. However, as Elon has moved into the Colonial Athletic Conference and built a competitive football program, fan attendance is on the rise. Elon averaged 7,387 fans two seasons ago and 8,267 last year; both were good for sixth in a twelve-team conference. However, context is important as the programs they rank behind include the likes of Richmond, James Madison , and Delaware , all of whom have claimed national championships and have established themselves over the years as forces in the conference. Elon is continuing to build a winning tradition, having only been in Division 1 Football for twenty years and the competitive CAA for five seasons. The fans are loud and passionate, decked out in Maroon and Gold, and there is a fun tailgating scene. The crowd is engaged throughout the game, cheering on their Phoenix. There is also a sizeable student presence which is nice to see from a smaller school. As Elon continues to win, and become a fixture in the CAA, the fan support likely will continue to increase. Access 3 Rhodes Stadium is a beautiful place to watch a football game, but getting to the stadium can sometimes prove challenging. Parking lots open five hours before game time, so it is worth getting to the game fairly early, as traffic closer to game time does get a little tough, especially as you approach campus. Parking is located in the Hunt B Parking lot behind the Schar Center, across the street from the stadium, for ten dollars. There is also parking at the Arts West Parking lot a bit further away. It’s free of charge, but it’s a bit of a walk and there are no shuttles. Handicap parking is available in that lot as well as in three other lots around campus, though a permit is required to park in the other lots around campus, such as the Global Neighborhood Hunt A and Ingrid lots where handicap parking can be utilized. Elon does offer Biobus service from campus to Burlington, Gibsonville, and other surrounding areas, however on Saturdays these services are limited and no public transportation to Burlington is offered. This can be a challenge because Elon does not have a Greyhound or Amtrak Station, and while Burlington has an Amtrak Station, on Saturdays there is no public transit to get from the station to campus, so if you don’t drive, rideshares like Uber or Lyft would be your best option, which can be a little expensive. The main gate gets you in through the south end zone, and getting into the stadium is not too hard. The concourses are fairly wide though at times they can get a little congested. Bathrooms are clean and there is plenty of handicap seating throughout the stadium. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices at Elon are not too expensive and are generally around twenty dollars. Add the reasonable food prices and, though parking is a little steep, it comes out as a very solid deal to take in an Elon Phoenix game in a scenic intimate setting at Rhodes Stadium. Extras 5 One point goes to the stadium itself – not every college football stadium has such great sightlines. Proximity to the action, either in one of the seating sections or on the lawn, contributes to a positive game experience. Point number two goes to the wide variety of affordable and local cuisine that Rhodes Stadium offers, while another point is for The Fire of the Carolinas (an appropriate name for the Phoenix’s band), which is one of the better smaller school bands I’ve heard. The fourth point is for the amount of tailgating around the stadium, a real addition to the pregame atmosphere, and the final point goes to Elon’s campus, a plausible candidate for prettiest campus in the country. Final Thoughts Elon University can be easy to miss if you’re just driving along I-40 across North Carolina. And, while it doesn’t have bigger conference ties that schools like NC State , UNC , East Carolina , or App State might have, a football game at Rhodes Stadium is absolutely worth attending. There is the close proximity of the action, there’s the fun of weighing in on the battle for BBQ Supremacy, there’s getting a scoop of Smitty’s Ice Cream, and finally there’s listening to the sounds of The Fire of the Carolinas while watching the passionate fans decked out in Maroon and Gold cheer on their Phoenix. Elon is getting more settled in the Colonial Athletic Conference, and with the team performance improving and fan attendance increasing, the Phoenix is truly rising up to become one of the top tier football experiences in North Carolina.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie 1000 Lone Star Pkwy Grand Prairie, TX 75050 Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie website Year Opened: 1997 North Texas Turf Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie is one of only 4 tracks in the state of Texas that offer live horse racing and is considered by many to be the best of the bunch. Opened in 1997, Lone Star Park hosts thoroughbred racing from April thru July, and Quarter Horse racing from September thru November. The facility has a mile-long dirt track in addition to a seven-furlong turf course, which sits inside the larger dirt oval; on a typical race day might see both courses in use. Food & Beverage 5 There is all manner of food and beverage options at Lone Star Park, starting with hot dogs, ice cream, pizza, and Mexican on the lower level, as well as several bar areas with full selections of alcohol. Prices vary widely, with main dish items such as hot dogs and slices of cheese pizza starting at $6, and you can also get snacks or desserts like packaged candy and cookies starting at $2. There are also better options, including full-service restaurants, on the second and third floors if you want to purchase premium seating. Most of the food is located inside the main building, but there are a couple of kiosks outside with very small selections of alcohol, plus bottled water and popcorn. Atmosphere 5 The facilities at Lone Star Park are stellar – there are inflatables for the kids, multiple seating areas inside and out so you can get as close to or as far from the action as you want, and there is even a live band playing during the races. But like any horse racing course, certainly, the name of the game is the wagering, and you will find plenty of betting windows (staffed with live attendants to take your bets) and betting machines inside the venue (as well as a couple of ATMs – please bet responsibly). I prefer the live staff option, as I am not always certain what some of the betting terms mean. The wagering lines can get a little long at times, especially just before the off, so you are better off going right after the end of each race. There is a walking ring on the other side of the facility from the track, where you can see the horses parade around before they go onto the track, and you can also see the winning relations (and horse) in the winner’s circle following the race. The seating areas include partially covered seats with chairbacks, or you can sit at tables in the sun closer to the track if you need space to set your food or drink, or to peruse your racing program. There is also a large area of covered seating about 200 feet away from the main building, which has additional tables and chairs – this is near where the stage is for the live band, just outside the west entrance of the main building. Neighborhood 4 Lone Star Park is located about halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth, nestled in between Arlington and Irving. There is some construction going on in the immediate vicinity to create a major league cricket stadium on the site, and there is also an entertainment venue already on site called Texas Trust CU Theater which hosts concerts and other events. Additional development is also planned on the property, so in a couple of years, you can expect to see a variety of new restaurants, shopping options, and hotels, making this a bit similar to the Texas Live! entertainment district (currently being built but partially completed) next to Globe Life Field in Arlington. If you are looking for additional entertainment options, there is plenty to be seen in Dallas proper or in Fort Worth. For example, you may be able to catch other sporting events on the same weekend if you want to make a doubleheader of it – baseball season is in full swing, and the NBA or NHL may have some games nearby if the Mavericks or Stars make the playoffs. You are also in the right season for spring football, with both the Arlington Renegades of the XFL and the arena football Frisco Fighters having games nearby if you choose the right weekend. Fans 5 There are plenty of “fans” in attendance, making wagers and taking a look at the horses – you will hear plenty of cheers (as well as a few screams of agony) urging on the right horse (or bemoaning the loss of a favorite). People here really seem to be enjoying themselves as they walk around taking in the sights, listening to the band, or enjoying a drink or some good food – you will see plenty of smiles on people’s faces as they enjoy the beautiful day at the track. The folks here are also very friendly, and are very willing to share tips or stories of success and failure; you will also see many groups of friends and families out and about, enjoying their time. Access 4 Getting to Lone Star Park is pretty easy – there is not much around the venue at present, so traffic in and out of the site is almost non-existent, and you can park for free in the “outer” parking lot. Parking in the lot closest to the facility will run you $20, but in my opinion, that option is not worth it; the further parking lot is empty enough that you can park near the front, and with only a few extra steps of walking save some money. Once inside there are plenty of bathrooms, and in general, there is plenty of room to move around the concourse and the track. Most of the concessions don’t have any lines to speak of, given how many different options there are – the only downside is you might have to wait in line at one of the betting windows or betting machines or for the ATM. A pro tip here – there is a much less used ATM on the far side (away from the West entrance where most people enter from the parking lot), so if you go over there you shouldn’t have to wait, although the betting windows and betting machines on that side seem to be about the same. Return on Investment 5 The cost to get into Lone Star Park is only $15 for basic admission, plus $5 for a racing program if you want to see the odds and scratches. The price for the 2nd and 3rd levels runs a little bit more, and on some days they will sell out of those better seating options – on the plus side if you sit on the upper floors you can watch from the inside and get a better view of the race since you are higher up, but you can’t get as close to the horses that way. Extras 5 I already mentioned the live band and the number of different seating options, but the grounds are also beautiful. Being able to see both turf racing and dirt racing on the same track is also a plus (note that the turf racing here is slightly harder to see than the dirt racing, given the turf course is inside the dirt track). There is also a little gift shop inside if you want to grab a souvenir, and there are some statues around which you can get pictures of; you can also pet some of the horses (not the racehorses but the horses ridden by the park staff). And finally, I have to mention the hat contest – you will see plenty of people dressed up in their finery to go racing, including many, many elaborate and beautiful hats being worn. Final Thoughts I would recommend a visit to Lone Star Park if you can make it; this is the best race course I have ever been to and the best racing experience I have ever had.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 Al Lang Stadium 180 2nd Ave SE St Petersburg, FL 33701 Tampa Bay Rowdies website Al Lang Stadium website Year Opened: 1947 Capacity: 7,227 Getting Rowdy in St. Pete Taking in a Tampa Bay Rowdies game can be a bit of a surreal experience. Here in the middle of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, sits a former Minor League Baseball stadium that has been transformed into the home of a professional soccer team, where fans tailgate and march through the city center before singing the entire game in support of their favorite team. This is definitely not something you would expect to see in the south, and yet, it stands out as an incredible game day experience. The fan support in St. Pete is high for the Rowdies, as proven by a referendum that was overwhelmingly approved by voters to renovate and fully transform Al Lang Stadium into a premiere MLS facility last year. While the team eventually fell short in their bid for an MLS franchise, the roots of the passion that could make the eventual move successful are easily visible here. Food & Beverage 4 The best thing about the food at Al Lang Stadium is its affordability. A beer ranges from just $6 to $9, with soda and bottled water averaging $4. A burger is just $6 and a hot dog just $4, making the Rowdies insanely affordable compared to most professional sports teams. There is even a concessions stand open in the kids zone just for your child, which features snow cones, cotton candy, and ice cream. The quality of the food is also top notch, with everything made fresh in front of you. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere is electric, to say the least. The entire game is filled with the songs and chants from Ralph’s Mob as they keep the excitement going. The fans explode with a roar whenever the Rowdies score a goal. The surrounding area provides a beautiful backdrop for a night of soccer. And to make things even better, the fans are allowed onto the edge of the field after some games to get player autographs, take photos, and get an up-close look at the pitch at Al Lang Stadium. In addition, the stadium’s big-screen scoreboard provides great replays of each important moment on the pitch, as well as stats and information about what is happening throughout the rest of the league. For those who are into social media, there are even special Snapchat filters for the games, helping fans connect and express their support in a host of ways. The stadium itself is clean and easy to navigate, but the aged look of the stadium is hard to escape. Neighborhood 5 St. Petersburg is a growing city on the rise. It is a mix of vacationers, college students (USF has a campus literally steps away from the stadium), and professionals mixing with both city and suburban folks. The neighborhood around Al Lang Stadium is evolving into a high quality of life location that features some of the best hole-in-the-wall eateries you can imagine, with traditional shopping and dining (CVS, Publix, and others are there to help meet your shopping needs). Hotels and resorts vary from motels a few blocks away to the beautiful Hilton in the heart of downtown that puts you literally across the street from the main gate. Just steps away are a SpringHill Suites and a Hampton Inn for lodging options. In addition, situated right on the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the beach is right next door to the city, just a few minutes’ drive away. Often rated among the greatest beaches in the country, relaxation under the sun is easier than ever. Not to be forgotten, the people are gracious, kind, and welcoming, making even the most travel-weary fan at the game feel like they’re right at home. For history buffs, a trip south to Fort De Soto State Park is a must. Fans 5 The mere fact that there are seats in some parts of the stadium is funny, as some fans never sit in them for the whole game. Ralph’s Mob, the team’s official supporters club, stands the whole match, singing away for their favorite team and giving the opponents a hard time all the while. It is what one would imagine proper football to feel like as a fan, with all the passion, while remaining family-friendly. Something you notice right away is the number of kids and families at the game. There are a ton of children watching the game with their parents, and it adds to the family-friendly atmosphere. Access 5 Getting to Al Lang Stadium is as easy as possible, with I-175 and I-375 branching off I-275, literally ending on the street in downtown St. Pete that leads to the main entrance. How much easier is it to find than that? Parking is easy with various lots around Al Lang Stadium charging anywhere from $5 to $10. The Rowdies have their own officially sanctioned parking lots and garages around town to help fans find the best place to park. The parking is also plentiful, regardless of how busy the game is going to be, which makes for an easier time finding a spot for those who aren’t familiar with the area. The stadium itself isn’t very big, so getting to your seat is also easy once you’re inside. Return on Investment 5 There are few sports experiences in Florida as rewarding and enjoyable as a Rowdies game. They really know how to put on a show, party it up, and have fun all at the same time. The price of tickets can be as low as $26 for a seat at Al Lang Stadium, and kids’ tickets are just $10. This makes for one of the most affordable professional soccer experiences in the country, let alone the state of Florida. Add to this the affordability of food and drinks at the game, and a family of four can go to a game and get food, while still having money left over for souvenirs. Extras 5 The Rowdies fan club, Ralph’s Mob, have a massive tailgate before each game, and then march down to the field. Their path takes them through the heart of St. Pete in a wide circle complete with drums, flags, and fans singing the songs of Rowdies nation. The team also has a special beer named after them – Big Storm Brewing Company brews Tampa Bay Rowdies Lager, which is available for purchase at Al Lang Stadium. Lucky fans can also win the “Best seats in the house” at Al Lang Stadium. These premium recliners are set up on a riser along the sideline, and offer an up-close view no other seat gives fans. Something else Al Lang Stadium has that few other venues have is one of the best views in sports. On one side, the grandstand provides a great view of the towering buildings of downtown St. Petersburg. On the other, a view of beautiful Tampa Bay greets fans – it is hard to argue with the aesthetics of the facility’s surroundings. Something few fans may realize is that Al Lang Stadium sits in the middle of the course layout for the annual IndyCar Series Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. During race weekend, the stadium doubles as a photographer’s stand during the race. When walking through the parking lot, you can see the rumble strips on the ground and the red lines painted on the roads around the stadium, that show where the barriers are laid out on race weekends. Finally, each Rowdies fan gets the chance to win $1,000 in a contest the team conducts. The game day programs each contain a new code, and each Tuesday after the game the winning code is announced, with the fan holding that code taking home a cool stack of cash. Final Thoughts Tampa Bay may not have an MLS team like they once did, but the Rowdies’ USL program certainly provides the same level of excitement and fun.In the meantime, whether you’re looking to take the whole family or just go solo for a night of sports, the Rowdies will provide a safe, fun, and enjoyable event in a great central location for young people and families alike, in one of the nation’s fastest growing cities.

Photos by Tyler Huskinson, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 UCCU Ballpark 800 W University Parkway Orem, UT 84058 Utah Valley Wolverines website UCCU Ballpark website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 2,500 Wolverines At Brent Brown The Utah Valley Wolverine baseball team made its debut at home on March 24, 2005, but it wasn’t until June 13, 2007, that the venue was officially named Brent Brown Ballpark. The stadium holds 2,500 seats and can accommodate an additional 2,500 spectators on the grassy berm along the third baseline and in left field. Brent Brown Ballpark is not hitter friendly by any stretch. It is 305 feet and 312 feet to the left and right foul poles respectively, however, both ends have short fences. It is a long 408 feet to dead center with a high fence, and the state-of-the-art scoreboard sits in a right-center field with a high fence as well. College baseball isn’t something that draws much interest or excitement in Northern Utah. While Brent Brown Ballpark is a venue worth visiting, I would recommend visiting when the Rookie League Orem Owlz is playing and not for the UVU Wolverines. Food & Beverage 4 Brent Brown Ballpark offers the regular stadium fare with hot dogs, pretzels, candy, and soft drinks and the prices are reasonable. The concession stands also offer more unique items such as the Philly Cheesesteak and Mixed Fried Vegetables. Beer is not offered at this venue which is most likely due to the fact that the ballpark is located in Utah County which is quite possibly one of the most conservative counties in the nation. There weren’t many spectators at the games, so the concession lines were never very long. The ballpark has eight concession booths and only two of them were open during the entire game. At the only entrance to Brent Brown Ballpark, a sign warns spectators that absolutely no food and drink are allowed. Atmosphere 3 There are a total of three baseball parks along the Wasatch Front which host college and/or minor league teams, and all of them have been constructed so that spectators may enjoy a view of a section of the Rocky Mountains. The first base side contains the most seating possibilities to avoid the sun. The grassy berm along the third base side and left field get the most sun and exposure to other elements. Shade can also be found along the very top rows of the stadium in every section. The concourse allowed for plenty of space for the crowd I observed. If the stadium experienced a sell-out crowd, the concourse could become very crowded. The seats are hard plastic with cup holders for convenience and the pitch of the seats allows for unobstructed views from any spot in the stadium. The playing field is well-manicured grass, with the only con being a short warning track. Spectators are right on top of the playing field and with the exception of preference for exposure to the elements, there really isn’t a bad seat in the stadium. The home dugout is on the third base side, and the visitor dugout is on the first base side. The team’s bullpens are on corresponding sides and they are uncovered from the field of play with very easy spectator access. The scoreboard is high quality for a college baseball stadium, and the fact that the stadium is also home to the Owlz doesn’t hurt. The scoreboard displays the home photo roster, score inning by inning, pitch count, and whether the result of a batter on base is ruled as a hit or error. Willy the Wolverine is an involved and energetic mascot. I have seen him at UVU basketball games and he does a good job there as well. The home team walk-up music is personalized and the music selections between innings are current and/or relevant. The marketing department strategically waits until the first three full innings are over before doing promotions in the middle of the innings, which I thought was a very smart thing to do considering the size of the crowd. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark and the main UVU campus are located right off Exit 269 on I-15 and because of the location, there aren’t any points of interest or restaurants I would recommend walking to from the ballpark. However, because the ballpark is located right off a main thoroughfare connecting Orem and Provo, there are several dining options within a short five-minute drive. Some examples of the offerings are Smashburger and Carraba’s Italian Grill. Walking to the stadium is very safe and there is free parking on campus. Fans 2 The crowd knowledge seems to be pretty good. There is actually quite a large fan base for baseball in Utah. There weren’t too many visiting fans since the visiting team was from New York. There weren’t any particular chants or habits of note. The one saving grace was the crowd and its half-hearted attempt at, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” during the seventh-inning stretch. Access 5 The UVU campus and ballpark are located right off I-15. It can literally be seen from the freeway. There is an airport in Utah County but is not a major airport. Salt Lake International Airport is a 90-minute drive depending on traffic. The concourse is more than adequate for the crowd I observed, but could get crowded during a sell-out. The restrooms are very clean and there is plenty for the crowd on hand. The stadium has several areas to accommodate those with handicap accessibility needs. Not that it was a concern to me, but there was no security check at the only gate entrance. Return on Investment 4 All tickets to UVU baseball games are $5 and for those looking for a cheap outing during a warm spring day, it’s a great place to go watch baseball without much hassle. There isn’t a bad place to sit in the stadium and it’s a nice place to watch a baseball game. I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to attend another UVU baseball game, but I wouldn’t be against going again either. Extras 3 One extra point is awarded for the fact there is a team store on the concourse. Even though it isn’t much bigger than an average family room, it still exists and provides fans an opportunity to purchase merchandise. One extra point goes to the playground located just outside the concourse along the third base side of the stadium. One more extra point goes to the player banners along the concourse, the larger-than-life lineup card, and the banner displaying the team achievements.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Reuben D. Behlmer Memorial Gymnasium 1500 East Michigan St Indianapolis, IN 46201 Arsenal Tech website Reuben D. Behlmer Memorial Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1928 Capacity: 3,000 The Granddaddy of Indianapolis High School Gyms The Reuben D. Behlmer Memorial Gymnasium was built in 1928 and is one of the grand old high school basketball facilities in Indianapolis. The two-tiered arena is home to the Arsenal Tech High School Titans who have a storied tradition including four state finals appearances and two 4A state championships. The 3,000-seat venue is not known for its large crowds during the regular season, but it packs them in during the Indianapolis City Tournament and regional play, annually attracting crowds that surge over the 4,000 mark at times. Originally called the Boy’s Gym and then the West Gym, the facility underwent major renovations in the mid-1970s and for many years after was able to keep its old-school charm with beautiful hues of forest green, a well-weathered court, and stylishly curved ramps leading to the second tier. It still has a lot of character, but the campus where the building is located has even more history. Arsenal Tech rests on a 76-acre piece of forestry land east of downtown Indianapolis. It was originally established in 1861 as an actual state arsenal, providing munitions for the Civil War. The first soldiers arrived in 1865, but by the early 1890s, the general movement spread throughout the nation to abandon such facilities. The arsenal would be used to create haversacks and knapsacks during the Spanish-American War, but its days supporting war efforts would cease when the last sunrise gun went off on April 3, 1903. On September 12, 1912, Arsenal Tech High School opened for the class to help alleviate the overcrowded conditions at the city’s two other high schools. The largest high school campus of its kind in the state has many of its original buildings still intact that include the soldiers’ barracks, entrance guardhouse, officers' residence, and powder magazine. Food & Beverage 1 Two small tables are located on each level of the gym that offer candy, nachos, and bottled drinks. Many of the items cost between $1 and $2 and are perfect to snack on during the game. Unfortunately, due to large crowds, there does not seem to be adequate room for a concession booth or stand anywhere in the gymnasium. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere quickly smacks you in the face and reminds anyone from out of town that high school basketball still matters here in the state. A sense of excitement envelops the old gymnasium for a sectional play that attracts an overflowing crowd who are there to witness one of the six local Indianapolis teams play over the three-day event: Tech, Cathedral, Lawrence Central, Lawrence North, North Central, and Warren Central. The building itself has a definite old charm feel to it with cramped tight quarters, rustic railings, and a sense of history. Banners are hanging up celebrating past championships, retired jerseys, and, in the main lobby, trophies on display behind glass cases. There is so much moving around by people that it is hard to take in some of the historic charms that exist in this building. Neighborhood 3 Arsenal Tech is nestled between an ultra-hip and a dodgy neighborhood east of downtown. The electric Mass Ave is located less than a mile away from campus; a neighborhood that has its unique charm and vibe, much different than downtown Indianapolis. There is a collection of restaurants, bars, breweries, and boutique shops that make this a great destination before and after a basketball game at Tech. Mimi Blue Meatballs offers flavorful meatballs with delectable side dishes in a quaint, nostalgic setting. Bakersfield is a local favorite that offers nine different tacos, tortas, and tequila. The Eagle is famous for fried chicken, Union 50 has a warm ambiance with live music, and Pizzology makes some of the best pizzas in the city. Fans 5 The fans generate an amazing zeal for the game. They line up in the cold waiting for tickets even if they are told that they are sold out. Once inside they clamor for a space to sit and watch the game, enjoying every moment. It is hard not to bump shoulders with someone and have a conversation about the game. There is not an empty seat or corner in the arena, something you do not see at many sporting events. Access 2 The campus of Arsenal Tech is an old establishment with some buildings dating back to the time of the Civil War. There is parking throughout the school, but spaces quickly fill up hours before the game. There are free shuttle buses providing folks who had to park on neighborhood streets or somewhere else on campus. After waiting in line for your ticket, it is wise to get to an empty seat and remain there for the entire game. It is cumbersome to maneuver through the dense crowd that overtakes the small arena. Return on Investment 4 Tickets cost $6 for a single game or $10 for two games, making it quite a deal to watch top-level basketball. Many of these men who are playing on this court will eventually start at major colleges and possibly the National Basketball Association within a few years. You’re practically seeing the equivalent of the junior hockey leagues of Canada. The parking is free and with Mass Ave being very close to the facility, it’s one heck of a way to enjoy a Friday night. Extras 3 The crowd is the star of the night with over 4,000 people in attendance. A very impressive number, since many minor league basketball operations would love these types of crowds at their games. The shuttle buses make life a lot easier for many fans trekking to the building. Parking spots are at a premium and many have to search throughout campus and the neighboring streets to park their cars. Luckily free shuttle buses bring people to and from the game in warm comfort. The gym and campus possess a lot of character that is hidden by the mass of people at the game. The facility dates back to 1928 and has a few stories to tell; a return engagement might be recommended during the regular season to fully appreciate the arena. Final Thoughts Attending this particular sectional was truly something that I will remember for the rest of my life. There were all the characteristics of Indiana high school basketball to observe. Fans waiting in line in the cold winter air, sold-out tickets, people nestled up against one another at their seats, and the joy of watching your team win the game and move on in the tournament. I was told by many that these days have dearly dissipated, but that was not the case here at Tech on the night of Sectionals. Perhaps the oversized crowd of fans bolstered the ambiance, but I don’t think I would have had it any other way.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mesa Community College Baseball Stadium 1833 W Southern Ave Mesa, AZ 85202 Mesa Thunderbirds website MCC Baseball Stadium website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 600 Mesa Thunderbirds Founded in 1963, Mesa Community College (MCC) campus sits on the southwestern part of Mesa, AZ between Gilbert and Tempe. The athletic teams started play 1966 and are part of the NJCAA – Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC). The baseball team, first known as the Hokams, began play in 1966, became known as the Thunderbirds in 1974. The Thunderbirds have won four National Titles since their origin, the latest in 2014. It has reached the NJCAA World Series 13 different seasons and has been the ACCAC champions a multitude of times. The on-campus stadium is a decent looking stadium with block dugouts, sturdy shaded bleachers, restrooms, an immaculate green diamond and plenty of parking. Field dimensions are 330’ down the foul lines and 400’ to straight away center, a pretty standard layout. The college built the stadium in 1966 but I suspect they constructed the bleacher seating and canopies in later years. Food & Beverage 0 A small, two-window concession stand is on the stadium premises before entering the seating area. The Athletic Public Relations department told me this is not used very much as the crowds are just too small. Fans can bring in outside food and drink for their enjoyment. Atmosphere 3 Mesa Community College Baseball Stadium is an attractive looking venue with clean shiny bleachers and a lush green field. Two separate sets of red canopy-covered bleachers are the seating choices for fans. The set behind home is for Thunderbird fans and the one by third base is designated for visitors. To watch the game net-free, sit on the third base side bleachers. Bring a cushion. The canopies provide needed shade for afternoon games; the sun sets behind the stands. No noticeable area is available for lawn chairs. Located above the right field wall is an easy to read, manual scoreboard. Several players do an excellent job at updating the balls, strikes, outs, hits, errors and runs in a timely fashion. The stadium does not have lights installed; teams only play day games here, usually 12pm and 3pm. The outfield wall highlights 22 names – all former MCC athletes who have made it to the major leagues. Past the left field wall is the football stadium (with lights). Take notice of the uniquely designed Performing Arts Center beyond the first base side. Depending on a flight’s approach path, fans can watch planes descend as they head toward Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. To me, the best feature about this game day experience (besides the baseball game) is no music, at all, during the game. It’s the pleasant noise of crowd chatter and the sound of encouragement from teammates. Speakers emit some pregame music at a comfortable sound level but it ends when the game starts. It’s truly a blessing in this age of non-stop noise. Neighborhood 3 The Mesa Community College campus itself is across from a hospital. The campus is exquisitely xeriscaped, has a planetarium, and a performing arts building. On campus activities shut down because of the pandemic but expect an abundance of entertainment once this is behind us. Fast food places surround the campus. Korean (Hodori), Mexican (Los Sombreros), an Olive Garden (Italian), a Longhorn Steakhouse are a few of the sit-down restaurants within walking distance. A few miles south of campus is the Arizona Wilderness Gilbert Brewpub and east just off US 60 and Stapley Dr is a favorite of mine, the Beer Research Institute (good IPAs and excellent lunches). Downtown Mesa is less than five miles northeast from the campus where visitors can find several breweries and taprooms (12 West Brewing, Chupacabra Taproom, Oro Brewing), pubs, restaurants (Pete’s Fish & Chips, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, and plenty more), and even a cidery (Cider Corps). Enjoy breakfast before a noon game at First Watch, just across US 60 on Dobson. Hotels are prominent less than two miles east on Southern Ave and Alma School Rd and include Courtyard Marriott, Double Tree by Hilton, LaQuinta, etc. Of course, visiting Arizona in the spring means spring training. Mesa offers two parks: Sloan Park (Cubs) three and ½ miles north and Hohokam Stadium (Athletics) about six and ½ miles northeast. Fans 2 Fans tend to be mostly men, though some parents make the trip. As several teams in the ACCAC are within an hour’s drive, visiting fans draw a decent number. Very few children attend weekday afternoon games. Fans are generally quiet when watching the game, except for teammates. This first season after the COVID pandemic (2021 season), 65%+ of the fans still do not follow the ‘wear a face mask’ rule. Access 4 Located on the northeast corner of US 60 and Dobson Rd, the school is easily accessed by car. It is 20 min east of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Valley Metro Bus Route 96 stops outside the campus but it looks like that only runs on weekdays. The closest light rail stop is Sycamore Ave and Main St where a healthy 2.1 mile walk will get fans to the park or they can jump on the 96 bus going south (on weekdays) from the light rail station and get off at the college. However, the best bet is to drive there. Plenty of free parking is on hand with the Southeast Parking Lot closest to the field. The bleachers are wheelchair accessible with ramps leading up to the bottom platform. Handrails are provided for ascending the few rows of bleachers. Blue taped X’s on bleachers indicate physical distance seating. I haven’t quite yet figured out whether fans should sit on the X’s or not sit on them. Fans comply with the physical distancing but not the face mask rule. Clean restrooms are located in the same building as the concessions; four stalls in the ladies’ room. Bags are not required to be plastic nor clear. Moving around once on campus and near the park is simple and easy. Return on Investment 5 Free. Soaking in the sun, listening to the sounds of the game and the crack of the bat, removing oneself from life’s everyday hustle and bustle, and simply passing time on a lovely Arizona spring afternoon doesn’t get much better than a Thunderbirds game at Mesa Community College. Extras 3 The manual scoreboard deserves an extra mention. Most enjoyable is having only the crowd noise and no loud piped in music. The team’s championship years are proudly painted on back of one of the dugouts easily seen when entering the park. Lastly, the stadium was the site of a Kris Bryant prank, sponsored by Red Bull Energy Drink, where he pretended to be a potential new player joining the team at practice one day. It’s a short, fun video. Final Thoughts If you just want to get out of the house for a few hours one spring afternoon in the Valley of the Sun, taking in a game at Mesa CC Baseball Stadium hits the spot.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 BMO Harris Bradley Center 1001 N 4th St Milwaukee, WI 53203 Milwaukee Bucks website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 18,717 Demolished: 2019 The Bucks Stop (Playing) Here Editors Note: BMO Harris Bradley Center was demolished in early 2019. The Bucks now play at the new Fiserv Forum . The BMO Harris Bradley Center is the only major public professional sports arena in the country built through the philanthropic gift of one family. It has served as the home of the Milwaukee Bucks since 1988. During this period the 18,600 seat facility has also been the home court for the Marquette University men’s basketball program. The AHL Milwaukee Admirals were also tenants of the Bradley Center from 1988- 2016. The Bradley Center has four levels of seating, including 42 suites and 16 theatre boxes. Also included in the facility are 14 permanent concession stands, 3 clubs and 4 Bucks Pro Shops merchandise stores. The thirty year history of the Bradley Center will come to a close at the end of the 2017-2018 basketball season. The arena has served Milwaukee well, but it lacks the size and amenities found in many of the newer NBA facilities. In addition, due to its origin as a philanthropic gift, no funding was designated for capital improvements over the life of the facility. The Bucks will begin playing in the Wisconsin Sport and Entertainment Center now nearing completion just a block away in Fall 2018. Food & Beverage 3 The Bradley Center concessions program offers a wide variety of both stadium standards, as well as a strong mix of regional favorites. Classic Concession stands offer the following fare: hot dogs ($5), burgers ($8), chicken tenders ($9), BBQ sandwich ($6), nachos ($6), popcorn ($6), pizza ($7), burritos ($8.50), candy ($4.50), ice cream ($6 / dish) and pretzels ($6). They also offer Pepsi brand beverages ($5.75) and bottled water ($5). As you would expect from the Beer City, there is an extensive selection of beers available at the TapHouse, including Corona, Redds, Blue Moon, Leinie’s, Heineken, Lakefront, New Glarus Spotted Cow, New Castle, and of course Miller Beer brands. Domestic brands are $8.50 and premium brands are $9.50. Amongst the more popular regional items available at the Bradley Center are brats ($5.50), chicken and waffles ($7.50), polish sausages ($6), Milwaukee dogs ($10) cheese curds ($6.50) and Milwaukee Fish Frys ($11.50). Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere within the Bradley Center is one of celebrating the past 50 years of Bucks basketball, while looking forward to next season in the new Wisconsin Sports and Entertainment Center going up next door. Each home game highlights one season in the Bucks history, with trivia quiz contests for the fans during each break in the action. A member of the team from that season also personally makes an appearance at the game and signs autographs in the main lobby of the arena prior to the game. There are many commemorative giveaways on different nights throughout the 2017-2018 season. Another popular activity is to roll back the price of a specific concession item to its 1968 price for the evening. The future of the Bucks looks bright as they prepare to move into their new home in the fall of 2018, as the roster is one of the youngest in the NBA. Throughout the games, a series of videos featuring some aspect of the new arena is shown, boosting fan enthusiasm. Many of the in-game contests feature ticket giveaways to games for next season. Neighborhood 5 Milwaukee has a very vibrant downtown area with many great restaurants, bars and attractions within walking distance of the Bradley Center. The arena is located between several college campuses, guaranteeing the nightlife will just be getting started as the game ends. On the restaurant front, Milwaukee is a melting pot of great ethnic restaurants, many of which are located along the riverfront on both Water Street and in the Old World Third Street section. Two restaurants to check out are the Milwaukee Brat House and Mikeys Burgers and Bombs. When you think of Milwaukee two things come to mind… beer and Harleys. A great way to spend your pregame time on weekends is to check out the Harley Davidson Museum and go on the Miller Brewery Tour. Both attractions are located just west of the Bradley Center area. You can save a great deal on parking by staying in one of the many hotels within walking distance of the arena. The closest is the Hyatt Regency around the corner from the Bradley Center, but for a more uniquely Milwaukee experience stay at the Brewhouse Inn and Suites. It is a former brewery converted into a great boutique hotel. The lobby even still has the distilling tanks as a furnishing. When scheduling a trip to Milwaukee, check out the sports calendar to see if you can score either a double or triple header of games in a weekend. In addition to the Bucks, you also have Marquette University playing at Bradley Center. By simply crossing the street, you can also catch a UW Panther basketball game or a Milwaukee Admirals hockey game at the UW Panthers Arena. Fans 4 Milwaukee fans are very basketball-centric as there are two main sports in town, basketball and baseball. Older fans remember the glory days of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar leading the Bucks to their only NBA Championship and Al McGuire leading Marquette to the NCAA Championship over UNC. Younger fans are aware of the more recent successes of the University of Wisconsin / Madison reaching the NCAA finals and UW Milwaukee reaching the Sweet Sixteen. Bucks fans are also very passionate about their rivalry with a certain team just a couple of hours south of town in the Windy City. Though the Bulls dominated in the Michael Jordan/Scottie Pippen era, the rivalry has been much more contested in recent years and typically sells out the Bradley Center very quickly. The fans at Bradley are led in their Fear the Deer cheers by Bango, the Bucks mascot. In addition, the team has established a statewide network of Bucks Bars to televise games, promote the team and set up group outings to the Bradley Center several times per season. Access 3 Bradley Center has more than 10,000 parking spaces available within a six-block radius around the arena. It is very easy to access from I-43 at exit 72C coming from the west or exit 73A coming from the east, north or south. Please be aware that there may be some street closures in the immediate area of the arena in conjunction with the construction of the Bucks new home. Better yet stay at one of the many hotels located within a few blocks of the arena and walk to the game. Once at the Bradley Center, there are four main entry / exit points into the facility. The lobbies and concourses are wide enough to allow a good traffic flow within the building. There are 28 restrooms spread throughout all four levels of the building, so you should not expect any long lines. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices for Bucks games range from $10 for 400 level seats – $275 for seats at court level. In most cases you should be able to obtain these tickets at standard pricing, avoiding the pricier secondary markets. Parking runs between $10 – $20 depending on which lot you use. Concessions are very reasonably priced. Extras 2 The Bucks franchise has existed since 1968. In that period of time they have won 13 division titles, 2 conference titles and 1 NBA Championship. Amongst the top players who have played in a Milwaukee uniform are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Quinn Buckner, Alex English, Gary Brokaw, Bob Weiss, Marquis Johnson, Junior Bridgeman, Oscar Robinson and Sidney Moncrief. Final Thoughts As the BMO Bradley Center goes through its final season, it looks back to celebrate the many special moments that took place there. This includes replays on the video board of Bucks victories, visits from Milwaukee’s stars of the past and special theme nights. Stadium Journey bids adieu to the Bradley Center and looks forward to reviewing the Wisconsin Sports and Entertainment Center in the fall of 2018.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Otter Sports Complex 4113 2nd Ave Seaside, CA 93955 Cal State Monterey Bay Otters website Otter Sports Complex website College Baseball by the Sea The sports scene in Monterey is somewhat limited – aside from races at Laguna Seca  or soccer at nearby Cardinale Stadium  with Monterey Bay FC, you don’t have many options. However, college sports fans can find solace in the fact that Cal State Monterey Bay fields sports teams, including a baseball program. Situated right on campus adjacent to the school’s other athletic fields, the Otter Sports Complex is Monterey Bay’s home for baseball.   Food & Beverage   3 There are several food trucks and concession stands open right behind the grandstands where you can find numerous options. Steak sandwiches, melts, flatbreads, nachos, or grillitos are available for $12, steak & bacon sliders or chicken artichoke wraps are $10, chicken wings are $8, hot dogs, nachos, fries, or grilled cheese sandwiches are $7, and water or soda costs $3.   Atmosphere   3 The stadium itself is simple enough; reminiscent of local baseball fields, there are three grandstand sections that are all open and available to fans who wish to sit in any of them. Many fans bring their own folding chairs and line them up right against the fencing itself behind home plate to watch the game. Landscaping, through simple, features beautiful flowering bushes and trees, making for a nice aesthetic. Weather in Monterey is practically perfect all year round, which means you won’t be uncomfortable watching CSU-MB games.   Neighborhood   5 Monterey is like much of the rest of coastal California; beautiful and relaxing. Boasting the weather and scenery of the Bay Area, but with the small-town feel of more inland locations, Monterey features a regional airport, numerous locations to stay at, and a wide variety of places to eat. In addition, the world-famous Monterey Aquarium is just minutes from CSU-MB, as are Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row. The locals are kind and courteous, always willing to give you directions and recommendations on where to go, and no matter what time of the year you are going, there is always some sort of festival or celebration going on, such as Italian Fest, Jazz Fest, and Octoberfest. For great food check out Gusto’s Handcrafted Pasta & Pizza, or Hula’s Island Grill. Hotels are plentiful here, including Hilton Garden Inn Monterey and Hotel Pacific. The stadium’s immediate location, the town of Seaside, also features numerous restaurants and hotels.   Fans   3 The majority of those in attendance are family and friends of the players on the field. With that said, there is also a notable attendance of younger fans, be they local youth players themselves, or kids who just want to watch baseball without their parents paying the price of MLB teams up north. The fans who do attend games here are also sports knowledgeable, knowing all the players on the field as well.   Access   5 Parking is plentiful on-site for $5 – these lots offer easy in-and-out access to fans attending games here, and payment for parking is made at the pay stations as you enter the lot, making for a seamless experience on game day. To get to the stadium, you just need to take the Lightfighter Drive exit from Highway 1; from there, you’re practically dropped off right next to the parking lot entrance.   Return on Investment   5 Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for kids, making games at CSU Monterey Bay incredibly affordable. Couple that with very affordable prices for parking and concessions, and you have a great day watching college baseball for a great price. Also, with the great weather you won’t be miserable watching the Otters take the field, so this really is a win-win for all parties.   Extras   2 QR codes are posted at various locations for fans to scan each game’s digital program. The field also allows fans to walk around behind the warm-up area for the visiting team, giving you an up-close view of their workouts and bullpen action.   Final Thoughts Going to Monterey may not bring college baseball to mind, but this should change for diehard fans of the sport. CSU Monterey Bay features a great affordable product with stellar weather in a fantastic city – this is a great option for fans who want to catch some sports, either if you’re visiting or a local.

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Schoonover Stadium 1508 Campus Center Dr Kent, OH 44242 Kent State Golden Flashes website Schoonover Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 500 Consistent Excellence In 2005, Kent State University opened a new facility for its baseball program. Officially named Olga A. Mural Field at Schoonover Stadium, the venue is modest with a capacity of only 500. What the ballpark lacks in glitz, it more than makes up for in history. Schoonover Stadium was built on the site of the previous home of the Golden Flashes, Gene Michael Field. But it’s more than just the location where you’ll feel the history, you’ll also see it on display on the outfield walls. There is no doubt that Kent State has been the most successful baseball program in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). The Golden Flashes won eight MAC Tournament titles from 2001-2012. In that 2012 season, Kent State also made a rare appearance in the College World Series in Omaha. 21 players have gone on to play in the Major Leagues including Gene Michael, Thurman Munson, Steve Stone, and Dustin Hermanson. When you see a game at Schoonover Stadium, you can be sure that you’ll see a future Major Leaguer and some of the best players that the MAC has to offer. Food & Beverage 2 There’s one small concession stand near the entrance toward the third base side of Schoonover Stadium. Here you’ll find hot dogs ($3), burgers ($5), chicken sandwiches ($4), and Italian sausage ($5). Pepsi products are available in 20-ounce plastic bottles for $3. If it is a cold spring evening, you can also pick up either coffee or hot chocolate ($2). The quality is a little less than average, and the prices are probably just a tad on the high side. Atmosphere 3 The seating at Schoonover Stadium can be found in the grandstand behind home plate, with mostly metal bleachers, but also a few rows of blue plastic chair back seats. It’s a fairly comfortable view, although if you’re in the bleachers you may either want to bring your chair back or head for the top row where you can lean up against the fence. The numerous displays of Kent State’s success on the field add to the overall atmosphere as well. Besides the years noted for MAC championships and Regional appearances, you’ll also find the #15, in honor of Thurman Munson, who starred at Kent State and the New York Yankees, and died way too young in a plane crash at nearby Akron-Canton Airport in 1979. You’ll see the number 30 down the left field line and the number 14 down the right field line, both with the name Schoonover. These are meant to highlight the fact that the Kent State baseball program has won 30 or more games in 14 consecutive games (through the 2013 season). Neighborhood 4 Schoonover Stadium is located about two miles from downtown Kent, Ohio. There is nothing within walking distance of the ballpark, so you’ll need to have a car with you. The best place for a pre or post-game meal and/or drink is the Water Street Tavern, which also offers the adjoining Cajun Dave’s. I love this spot primarily because Cajun Dave’s offers a fantastic menu with a lot of barbeque and southern influences. I especially like the shrimp and grits. As for the Water Street Tavern, they have a good beer menu, and plenty of TVs to stay up on the day’s sporting events. Zephyr Pub is probably better suited to the football crowd when the weather is a bit nicer. They have a wonderful outdoor beer garden, but also a pool table in case you’re looking to shoot some sticks. If your inner beer snob is calling, then Ray’s Place should be your destination. They have the best beer selection in Kent and recently have won acclaim for their MoFo burger recommended by Chef Michael Simon. If you’re in the area for a weekend series, consider staying at one of the hotels south of the stadium, near I-76. I have stayed at the Holiday Inn Express, and it is certainly suitable for baseball fans on the road watching their favorite team. Fans 3 You’ll find the usual mix of friends and family that make their way to a baseball game in the Midwest, but the spectators at Schoonover Stadium also display a little more hardball knowledge and passion than most similar venues in the region. This is not a social event, it’s a chance to root the Golden Flashes on to victory. Stand along the left field line and you’ll find a particularly high level of baseball conversation amongst the ardent viewers leaning against the fence. Access 4 The parking situation is a little unusual when you go to see a game at Schoonover Stadium. There is a small lot immediately outside the gate, but it fills up quickly, so if you want to park nearby, then be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before the first pitch. If that lot happens to be full, then there is a nearby larger parking lot. They discourage fans from walking along the road to the stadium, so there is a free shuttle bus that runs continuously between the two parking lots. If you can’t stand to wait, then you could of course walk (although the parking attendants will do their best to persuade you not to). In any case, parking is free. If you’re feeling sneaky, you can walk through the orange fencing that separates the baseball and softball fields and access the venue for free. I’m sure the attendants will certainly flag you down, and it’s not worth being dishonest to save yourself $5, but that’s your call. Restrooms are adequate on-site, and sure beat the port-a-potty options you’ll find at many Midwest parks. Return on Investment 3 Unlike many MAC ballparks, there is a charge to attend a game at Schoonover Stadium. It will cost you $5 for an adult ticket, and $3 for a ticket for anyone aged 60+ or between the ages of 4-14. Children under the age of 4 are free to enter. The ticket window only accepts cash, so come prepared. When you add in the concession prices and free parking, Schoonover Stadium offers an average return on investment. Extras 3 One extra point for the consistent excellence that the Kent State baseball program has shown since the turn of the century. Another extra point for the efficient bus shuttle that runs between the two parking lots. One final extra point to the subtle tribute to Thurman Munson, one of those great players that you can’t help but wonder, “what if?” Final Thoughts If you like college baseball, then you’ll enjoy a trip to Schoonover Stadium. The history of this fantastic mid-major program is on full display, so sit back and enjoy a high level of baseball.

Photos by Gregory Koch and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Bedford Field South Drive Princeton, NJ 08540 Princeton Tigers website Bedford Field website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 1,200 Tigers Field Hockey at Princeton Bedford Field on the campus of Princeton University is home to the Tigers' field hockey program. It is a relatively new stadium, having just opened in 2012, and is located right next door to Class of 1952 Stadium, home of Princeton lacrosse, with which it shares a concourse. Princeton field hockey has historically been among the most successful programs in the country, qualifying for 25 NCAA Tournaments, which is ninth on the all-time list. They won one national championship in 2012. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions are sold out of a truck with a Coca-Cola logo that is parked on the concourse between Bedford Field and Class of 1952 Stadium. The menu includes hot dogs, crispy chicken sandwiches, pretzels, popcorn, chips, cotton candy, candy, soda, and water. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are also available on cold days. Other than the crispy chicken sandwich, which is $7.50, everything is under $5. Atmosphere 5 As mentioned above, Bedford Field shares a concourse with the Class of 1952 Stadium, and you will enter through the gates between the two venues. Bedford Field will be to your right as you come in, and you can walk up into a large set of bleachers along one sideline. A small scoreboard behind the goal on the left shows shots, saves, and penalty corners in addition to the score and time. There is also a grassy area behind one goal where some fans like to stand or sit in their chairs or on the ground. Although animals are not permitted inside Bedford Field (except service animals), this area is not considered part of the stadium, so it is a popular area for fans to hang out with their furry friends and watch the game. Princeton keeps fans engaged with music and sound effects to pump up the crowd during penalty corners and after goals. All the seats are up close to the action, with no track or anything else separating the crowd from the field. The concourse is lined with posters honoring Princeton lacrosse and field hockey, and the effort the school put into this facility shows they truly care about the sport. Neighborhood 4 Princeton has that feel of a small college town. But there is certainly plenty going on here. The Dinky Bar & Kitchen, named for the NJ Transit line that connects the Princeton campus with Princeton Junction, is located in a former train station near campus. There are many more options in downtown Princeton, ranging from hoagies to seafood to pizza and more. Parking may be a challenge downtown, but there is much to do there, even if you have to walk a bit from your car. Fans 5 Princeton fans pack the 1,200-seat bleachers for field hockey games as well as lining the grassy area behind the goal. They proudly wear their orange and black and come ready to cheer on their team for the whole game. When Stadium Journey visited, the bleachers were mostly full, although some fans were late to arrive, and it was not nearly as full when the game started as it would eventually become. With a strong fan and alumni base, this seems typical for Princeton field hockey. There is a good mix of friends and family of the players, alumni, and locals coming to check out a game. Access 4 Parking for Bedford Field is available in Lot 20, about a five-minute walk from the stadium. Lot 20 is a huge lot that accommodates many places, not just Bedford Field, but you will want to park near the entrance from the traffic circle at Theatre Drive. This will offer the shortest walk to the stadium, about five minutes via Woodlands Way. For those arriving by public transit, the Princeton station on NJ Transit's Princeton Branch is located a short walk from the stadium, and if driving, you will likely pass it as you get on campus. The Princeton Branch, better known as The Dinky, is the shortest commuter rail line in America and connects Princeton's campus to Princeton Junction on the Northeast Corridor. It consists of just those two stops, and the trip takes about five minutes. Restrooms are available on the concourse, under the Class of 1952 Stadium bleachers, and are of a more than sufficient size for the crowds. The one thing to keep in mind is that there is a lot of construction going on at the moment in the vicinity of Lot 20 and Bedford Field, and some roads or sidewalks may be blocked off. Return on Investment 5 Admission to all regular season Princeton field hockey games is free. Parking is free, too, and concessions are quite affordable. Note that there may be a charge to attend Ivy League and NCAA Tournament games as the ticketing policy is set by those respective organizations, not the school. Extras 3 One star for the banners on the concourse honoring Princeton field hockey and lacrosse. A second star for the sign on the scoreboard honoring the 2012 national championship and the adjacent sign honoring all of Princeton's postseason appearances. Finally, be sure to look for the tiger statue by the entrance on the Class of 1952 Stadium side of the concourse, a reference to Princeton's mascot. Final Thoughts Bedford Field is one of the nicest college field hockey stadiums in the country, with a fan base to match. For fans of the sport, a trip to a Princeton field hockey game is a must. This is an outstanding facility.

The 2026 World Cup may seem like a long way off now, but the ultimate soccer event will be here in no time. The venues will be spread across North America, with the USA, Mexico, and Canada all due to host games. There are set to be two stadiums in use in the Great White North, with the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver and the BMO Field in Toronto both set to act as the stages for some of the biggest games in world football. Can Canada Build on Their Last World Cup Appearance? As one of the host nations in the next World Cup, Canada will get an automatic entry without having to qualify. This will mark their third appearance in the ultimate competition, after having appeared at the last edition in Qatar in 2022. They didn’t make it out of the group stages that time but will be eager to better that performance on home soil. At the time of writing, Canada is listed around the middle of all teams in the football betting to win the World Cup. They're not favorites, but they aren't ranked as complete outsiders either. This suggests that sportsbooks are aware that they may represent an additional threat on home turf. They also have a few players who are likely to be global superstars by that time, which could be why some people believe they can build on their last appearance. Football culture in Canada and the rest of North America is growing, and this has been helped by many of the top talents forging careers across the pond in the top leagues. This support will be essential to pushing the country forward and helping them get to the knockout stages of the next competition. Canada Will Have Host Stadiums in Vancouver and Toronto Most of the stadiums for the next World Cup are in the USA, but Canada will have two key locations to attract swathes of supporters from around the world. Organizers opted to use spots on opposite sides of the country that have easy access to the USA, with Vancouver and Toronto set to host games. The Vancouver spot is the BC Place Stadium, which is a double bowl arena with a total capacity of 54,405. It’s a multipurpose ground that acts as the home for BC Lions in the Canadian Football League and Vancouver Whitecaps FC in Major League Soccer. It is well-prepared for massive games, as it has already hosted the 2010 Winter Paralympics and the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup championship match. The BMO Field in Toronto is slightly smaller than the Vancouver site, with a capacity of 30,991. However, an expansion to 45,736 is planned of the World Cup. The stadium is currently the home of Toronto FC in the MLS and the Canada men’s national soccer team. The World Cup is always a great opportunity for people to see some of the most impressive stadiums from around the world. Canada has the chance to spruce up two of its best locations before the paramount football event, and they are likely to attract thousands of fans.

Photos by Aaron S Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 The Bank of the James Stadium 3180 Fort Ave. Lynchburg, VA 24501 Lynchburg Hillcats website The Bank of the James Stadium website Year Opened: 1940 Capacity: 4,000 Minor League Baseball in the Virginia Hill Country Baseball had been played in Lynchburg, Virginia since 1886 and the city has represented many leagues from the Virginia League, the Appalachian League, the Southern League, and the South Atlantic League. Baseball has been played at one place since 1940, what is now called The Bank of the James Stadium was known as City Stadium for most of its 80 years. The first game took place in front of 7,000 fans on April 11, 1940, between the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers. That same year it served as the home of the Lynchburg Senators of the Virginia League where 2,500 fans came out on opening day to watch the Senators play its first game. Later on that year the club captured the league championship. The stadium has been the home to Carolina League baseball since the 1966 season and the Hillcats since 1995. The man who brought Carolina League to town was Calvin Falwell who has served as the president of the Lynchburg Baseball Corporation since 1956 and was known as “Mr. Baseball”. The stadium would be rededicated in his honor in 2004 before the club secured naming rights with Bank of the James in 2020. The ballpark has gone through multiple renovations since 1978, but the most extensive rehab took place in 2002 when $6.5 million altered the look of the facility. The improvements included the completion of a brand new concourse with seatback chairs, two picnic areas, two new concession stands, eight luxury boxes, a new press box, and a brand new state-of-the-art scoreboard Food & Beverage 5 The Bank of the James Stadium has a great selection of food and beverage options for such a small stadium. Hot dogs, corn dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, pizza, pulled pork, brats, Italian sausage, and grilled chicken salad are all available at prices ranging from $3 to $8.50, including kid’s meals for $4. Numerous snack items are also available including nachos, peanuts, Cracker Jack, chips, French fries, mac ‘n cheese bites, pretzels, and Little Caesars crazy bread ($3 to $5). If you find yourself craving something sweet, The stadium also offers many different dessert items, including Oreo churros, several ice cream selections, and assorted types of candy ($2 to $5). Drink items are equally numerous, with selections including bottled water, fountain soda, Gatorade, Rockstar energy drinks, hot chocolate, several coffee choices, including cappuccino, and even beer and wine. Beer starts at $5, the wine starts at $6, and non-alcoholic drinks run $2 to $4. Atmosphere 3 The Bank of the James Stadium has comfortable seating, with wide chair back seats in the section behind home plate, and in the first few rows along the first and third baselines (most of the seats along the baselines are metal bleachers). Most of the section behind home plate is covered by a roof, so you will be protected from the sun (or rain) if you choose to sit there, which is actually the general admission section (unlike most sports venues where general admission would be the “worse” seats). The scoreboard at Calvin Falwell Field is pretty basic and does not include a video board, and the in-game activities between innings are pretty standard. Neighborhood 2 There is not a lot to do in the immediate vicinity of The Bank of the James Stadium, though the region offers plenty, such as Appomattox Court House National Park and the National D-Day Memorial both within a 30-minute drive. Less than a mile from the baseball field, though, is Fort Early, a Civil War-era battlefield with a couple of monuments, and you can also visit Amazement Square (a children’s museum) in downtown Lynchburg. Downtown is also the place to be if you are looking for a bite to eat while visiting – Depot Grille and Market on Main are both great choices. And if you are looking for a place to stay while in the area, most of the hotels near downtown are bed and breakfasts, but there are a slew of national chains southwest on Highway 29 near Liberty University, including a Hilton Garden Inn and a Fairfield Inn & Suites. Fans 2 The Lynchburg Hillcats averaged about 1,858 fans per game, with Sundays tending be the least attended. This ranks them second to last in the league. This level of attendance doesn’t lend itself to much crowd noise, although it does make it really easy to park and to get around the stadium. Access 3 Getting to The Bank of the James Stadium is not hard, per se, since there isn’t a lot of traffic in the area, but the venue does feel like it is a bit out in the middle of nowhere, so you won’t be able to use Interstates for much of your trip, meaning you will hit a lot of stoplights on your way in and out of town. The stadium does have some free parking on site, however, which is nice, in addition to some reserved parking slightly closer to the front entrance for about $6 per vehicle. Moving around the concourse is easy, thanks in part to the small crowd size, and there are no lines to speak of. The only downside really is that the parking lot is not that well kept up – on one recent visit, I ended up ruining a pair of sneakers, due to the summer heat being so bad it melted some of the asphalt. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Lynchburg Hillcats games start at only $6, which is a pretty good deal and is in line with other minor league parks in the vicinity. Free parking is also a plus, and the concessions prices are reasonable, albeit coming in at a slightly higher price point perhaps than similar venues. The only downside is the out of the way location, so depending on where you live, you may be able to find a baseball game that is a little easier to get to. Extras 3 The Lynchburg Hillcats have a great logo, with nice bright colors, and there is a huge play area for the kids inside the park. It is the only ballpark in professional baseball that allows dogs to all home games. Also, the staff does a lot of great promotions throughout the year. Final Thoughts The atmosphere can be somewhat laid back and down-home at the ballpark. A Hillcats game is comfortable and relaxing but not over the top in excitement or exuberance. That said, there are other parks nearby you could visit with bigger crowds and better amenities. But if you do find yourself at The Bank of the James Stadium for a game, you will certainly have a decent time.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Houston Field House 1900 Peoples Ave. Troy, NY 12180 RPI Engineers men’s hockey website Houston Field House website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 4,780 Warehouse Hockey Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute played hockey as far back as 1901, but it was World War II that may have had the biggest influence on the NCAA hockey program. As part of the Veterans Educational Facilities Program where the United States military sold off various pieces of war surplus equipment and other assets, RPI would get in on the action. Led by RPI president Dr. Livingston Houston, the Troy, New York engineering school would purchase a Navy Warehouse located in Davisville, Rhode Island. The building was deconstructed and shipped to Troy and reassembled on campus. That warehouse became the Houston Field House, the current home of the RPI Engineers hockey program. The doors opened on the new facility in 1949 and the rest is history. At one point, the Houston Field House was the main civic arena for the Albany area and would even host the 1959 Frozen Four. RPI has a long history in college hockey. Playing in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC), essentially the Ivy League of college hockey, RPI has enjoyed National Championships in 1954 and 1985 as well as graduated several players to the NHL including Hockey Hall of Fame member Adam Oates. RPI is similar to several other programs where the hockey team plays at Division I and the other programs play at Division III. A trip to see the Rensselaer Engineers will bring a smile to the face of fans who love the uniqueness and coziness of College Hockey. Food & Beverage 3 Houston Field House does not have an exemplary culinary scene. There is one simple concession that serves pretzels, chicken tenders, curly fries, hot dogs, pizza, pretzels, and popcorn. Soft drinks of choice are Pepsi products and bottled water and coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are also available. There is a Ben and Jerry’s stand on the opposite side of the arena for those wanting a little something extra, and several vending machines around the arena. A private club sits at the west end of the arena and it appears, food-wise anyway, membership has its privileges. Atmosphere 3 Considering the Houston Field House is a former military warehouse, the exterior of the arena is quite attractive. The main entrance is on the west side of the building and features a rounded entry with bay windows at the top that leads into a small atrium where the ticket windows can be found. Passing through the second set of doors in the atrium, fans are brought right into the concourse to the west side of the ice, behind the net. It is immediately noticeable that the floor is higher than the ice surface, which although may be trivial at best, does give the fan a feeling that there is something slightly different here. With an interior very much like the North Bay Memorial Gardens , the Houston Field House feels long and compact and the aesthetics of the concourses are a secondary concern at best. The east side of the arena is open and houses the Zambonis and other maintenance items for the arena. Although there is a long, blue curtain on the east side, little effort is done to hide these items. With no seats behind the east glass behind the net, a long “Engineers” sign is on the glass. A unique feature. RPI does what it can to make the Houston Field House as homey as possible. Several murals depict great Engineer moments in hockey as well as large team pictures of the 1954 and 1985 National Championship teams. The exterior of the private club boasts a huge number of photos of former Engineers who have gone on to play professional hockey including Brad Tapper, Marty Dahlman, Darren Puppa, and Kevin Constantine to name a few. In the rafters, above the ice, banners proudly hang for NCAA tournament appearances, ECAC Championships, and the 1954 and 1985 National Championship banners. At the east end of the arena banners honoring players and coaches who have provided a significant contribution to the program hang. These include Joe Juneau, Frank Chiarelli, Bob Brinkworth, John Carter, Jerry Knightley, Adam Oates, and coaches Ned Harkness and Garry Kearns. The video board that hangs at centre ice does the job but will not blow fans away. The seating area is fairly straightforward and the higher fans sit, the more likely the massive beams running east to west will interfere with the view. The west end looks to have been renovated at some point as the corners are rounded in the seating area. The east end of the north and south side seats are not great for the view and should be avoided. Pillars in each of the four corners hold up the large beams and should be considered when choosing seats. Many of the red or blue seats in the Houston Field House are wooden and a definite throwback to a past era. Fans who want the perfect center ice picture with the logo should sit on the north side of the arena. The gameday production at RPI is what one would expect for college hockey. The pep band is great and they play throughout the game from the top of the northeast corner of the arena. Students in attendance are normally found around the band. The Rensselaer mascot, Puckman, can be found traversing the crowd throughout. On an Engineers goal, a member of the band runs the entire perimeter of the arena carrying an RPI flag and getting high fives from all who are passed. Neighborhood 3 The Houston Field House is located on the east side of the campus of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute near the rest of the school’s athletic facilities. The immediate neighborhood of the arena does not offer much in the way of pre and post-game libations. Heading west, towards the Hudson River to downtown Troy is a much better option. Their fans can find several good options including Brown's Brewing Company, the Whistling Kettle, The Ruck, Nighthawk, Sea Smoke, and the Stadium Journey favorite, Dinosaur BBQ. As far as other sports go, the Tri-City ValleyCats of the Frontier League is also located in Troy. However, nearby Schenectady and Albany offer other options. The Union Dutchman are rivals of the Engineers and they play at Achilles Center in Schenectady. The Albany Firewolves of the National Lacrosse League are found at MVP Arena and Siena Saints and Albany Great Danes basketball are also in the Tri-City area. Fans wishing to stay in Troy can try the Hilton or the Best Western Franklin Square. Fans 4 The Engineers enjoy a solid fanbase in the ECAC. For the 2022-2023 season, RPI has averaged over 2,000 fans per game. Compared to other programs, that is in the top 4 in the conference. Still, under 50 percent capacity, there is plenty of room to grow. The fans that are in attendance are loud and engaged and bring that college hockey atmosphere to the game. The band leads the students in fan participation and RPI fans declare how each player “sucks” from the opponent when they are introduced. A humorous tradition at RPI comes during an opponent’s penalty where the fans belt out that the offending player “sucks” and is receiving two minutes for “sucking.” Access 3 RPI is located on the east side of Troy. It is easily accessible from Highway 7 from the north and Highway 4 from the east. There is parking available in the general area of the athletic facilities, but the terrain is not overly flat, and getting from Houston Field House to where parking is in the east can be a trek. For those fans wanting to take public transit to the game, some buses run on Peoples Dr to the south and Burdett Ave to the west. Fans should check out the Capital District Transportation Authority website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around the Houston Field House can be tight. The concourses that run under the grandstands are not very wide and the arena is not accessible for the entire 360 degrees. The seating is fairly old, with wooden seats, however, they are plenty wide enough. The washroom facilities are good for a small crowd but would be taxed with a big group. Return on Investment 4 NCAA hockey has tremendous value. Tickets for the Engineers go for $15 each with discounts for kids and seniors. There is a $3 surcharge for games that are considered premium. Concession prices are good and parking can be found for free. As for the product on the ice, RPI provides a decent team. The gameday atmosphere is excellent and a whole lot of fun when combined with the band, students, and the uniqueness that is NCAA hockey. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Big Red Freakout. It is the biggest game of the year and essentially part event and part reunion. Students camp out to get tickets and it has put RPI on the hockey map. An extra mark for the part of the Harlem Shake video being recorded at Houston Field House. An extra mark for the tremendously unique history of the Houston Field House and its origins as a military warehouse. Final Thoughts There seems to be something special about a Division III school that plays Division I hockey and the Rensselaer Engineers fit the bill. The Houston Field House is a unique facility, with a tremendous history that hockey fans should take in. Troy is the place to be for some Saturday night RPI hockey! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram .

Photo courtesy of the Ohio Valley League For some of us, the wait is over. The Clarksville Whirlybirdz of the Ohio Valley League appeared to have released their logo. However, it is not on the league or team's website but on the Madisonville Miners, another OVL member's page. It was reported by Jason Moragas on his Twitter page . The logo features a baseball-shaped bird head wearing a propeller beanie with the town’s name of Clarksville more prominent than the club's name. The colors are navy blue and silver, with a yellow for the bird’s beak. The Whirlybirdz will play home games at Rossview High School beginning June 3. They will join the Bowling Green Pistons (formerly the Franklin Duelers) as new franchises. The Ohio Valley League is a summer-collegiate loop that is entering its 12th season of operations with 12 league members. The Tennessee town hosted minor league baseball in the Class D KITTY League between 1946-1949 and 47 years later in 1996 in the independent Big South League. MY THOUGHTS I like what I see so far, but I hope there is more from the Whirlybirdz franchise. The Ohio Valley League has a collection of logos that ranges from amateur to professional level, and this one ranks close to the top. The propeller beanie might make an ideal promotional item for kids of all ages at home games, and I can almost envision the mascot walking around the ballpark. It's professional and reminds me a little of the Baltimore Orioles original logos. In that case, it's pretty solid. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Jason Karp, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Holt Arena 550 Memorial Dr Pocatello, ID 83209 Idaho State Bengals website Holt Arena website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 8,000 Basketball at Holt Arena While having attended an Idaho State University (ISU) football game and a rodeo in the Holt Arena, I fully expected this trip to Pocatello for an ISU men's basketball game to be equally as forgettable. However, this visit in Jan 2013, actually left me pleasantly surprised and I found myself questioning my past opinions of the arena. With only a very modest sized crowd, the Holt Arena was deafening and intimidating as the Bengals went on to beat Sacramento State 60-59. Opened in 1970, the Holt Arena is a half dome reminiscent of a large airplane hanger. Unassuming from the outside, the multipurpose arena offers several different seating arrangements that allow for different sports, concerts, and entertainment events. Logistically, hosting any event in the middle of a football stadium is crazy. The various courts and stages that are installed make up only a small fraction a football field square footage. Fortunately for Bengal basketball fans, ISU seems to have it down to a fine art. In order to not separate the crowd from the game and eliminate the home court advantage, the court is brought close to the permanent north bleachers and temporary bleachers surround the three sides of the court. Respectable for its size even with temporary bleachers, the arena boasts 8,000 seats during basketball games and a 12,000 (permanent) seating capacity for football games. Many of the dome's features are unavailable during the basketball game such as the video boards, or family friendly play place. Food & Beverage 1 Holt Arena offers just a very small number of food vendors, serving very limited and standard game time treats. During basketball games, the south side of the arena is closed, which further reduces the available options. The concession prices are surprisingly fair considering that there is no alcohol being sold to subsidize the prices. Atmosphere 2 The arena is adorned with trophies, plaques, and sports memorabilia from throughout the school's past, giving the facility a feeling of past sports legacy and special moments. However as the student body is virtually nonexistent, you're instantly struck with confusion wondering which is the home team. Luckily for this game, the hometown fans showed up in the second half. The heavy (ugly) insulated roof helped lend to the incredible noise that the small crowd produced. Neighborhood 3 Settled at the south end of Pocatello, Idaho State University is surrounded by older and well kept single-family homes, which slightly separates the school as the more active part of the town. Having learned from past experiences of trying to find original restaurants around the university, we talked to the other spectators and got two solid recommendations. Portneuff Brewery, a traditional polish brewery, and Butterburr's which is a family diner. As a winter storm was starting to settle in, we opted for Butterburr's, which was closer to our hotel. The large diner was filled to capacity, and the locals were really piling in. The soups are warm and homemade, and the pies hit the right spot. I will definitely be returning again for their Cheddar Broccoli soup. Fans 3 While I remain underwhelmed at the complete lack of a student section from ISU, I am extremely impressed with the amount of local hometown support the team seems to have. Families and local residents don the orange and black to support the Bengals. While the Bengals struggled to get things going during the first half, the fans didn't waiver. The second half was loud, intense, and actually kept my attention. Access 5 From the freeway, to parking, to the seats is less than 10 minutes. One unique feature that I noticed during this trip is Bengal tiger paw prints painted on the roads throughout town, all of which lead you to the Holt Arena. I have never waited in line at the box office, restrooms, or concessions. The small attendance reduces all congestion, and traffic flow before, during, and after the basketball game. Return on Investment 3 Even though the men's basketball games uses just a portion of Holt arena's potential, the $15 ticket I bought, allowed me to attend one of the best college games I have attended in quite some time. While I'm not a Bengals fan, I will absolutely be looking into attending again. Extras 0 Nothing that should be considered extra.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Hamlin Tennis Center 240 S 31st St Philadelphia, PA 19104 Penn Quakers website Hamlin Tennis Center website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 500 Penn Tennis The University of Pennsylvania, also known as Penn or UPenn, is a private Ivy League university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Penn is one of the nine colonial colleges chartered before the American Revolution. Benjamin Franklin is Penn’s founder. The university has also produced many alumni, which include 14 heads of state (including two U.S. Presidents) and 25 billionaires. Penn allows undergraduates access to courses at all of Penn’s undergraduate and graduate schools, except the medical, veterinary and dental schools. Undergraduates at Penn may also take courses at Bryn Mawr, Haverford and Swarthmore, under a reciprocal agreement known as the Quaker Consortium. Penn’s sports teams are nicknamed the Quakers. Located in Penn Park, the Hamlin Tennis Center is the home of the Penn men’s and women’s tennis teams. The facility was opened in the fall of 2011. The facility has 12 all-weather courts and six of the courts can be viewed from stadium seating. It is located next door to the Multidimensional Amphitheater, Penn’s softball field. Also with Penn Park is the Hecht Tennis Center, which is the indoor home to the Penn tennis programs. Food & Beverage 0 There is no permanent food stand at the Hamlin Tennis Center or in any other place within the Penn Park athletic field. Plan on bringing your own food. Atmosphere 3 The venue is an amazing place to watch tennis. The raised seats and viewing areas are fantastic ways to watch some fairly high quality tennis action. The seats themselves are nice, but remind me of what you would experience at a state or national park campfire auditorium, as the floors are basic gravel. Neighborhood 5 There is no real neighborhood to the stadium as it is inside of Penn Park, a set of athletic fields for the university. You will find plenty of shops and restaurants to satisfy almost any appetite. The best bet is to find a food truck, as they will be plentiful around the campus. I was lucky to find the Insomnia Cookies truck on 33rd St between Market and Chestnut just as they had some fresh cookies coming out of the oven. There will be a lot less food trucks on weekend games, unfortunately. Also located nearby at Drexel University is a location of Landmark Americana (3333 Market St), which is a great option for post game eating. This restaurant offers a nice choice of meals and has a large bar, as well. For Saturday games, look out for the $10 all-you-can-eat wings special. They also offer numerous drink specials at the bar. Also nearby is Wahoo’s Fish Tacos (3180 Chestnut St.), which is primarily a west coast chain, so finding them here is pretty special. If driving, consider Philip’s Steaks at 2234 West Passyunk Avenue for traditional Philly cheesesteaks. This is not one of the more touristy spots, but is still in a safe neighborhood and offers free parking. Philip’s also has a surprisingly good cheeseburger for a cheesesteak joint. Just remember you have to buy the drinks and fries at a different window than your main entree, which is a strange and unique Philly tradition. Fans 2 The majority of the fans are friends and family of the athletes. The ones in attendance all seem quite knowledgeable of the game. Access 2 There is not a lot of parking in the area. Parking will not be cheap, as this is Philadelphia and no parking is cheap. Plan on paying at least $15. You can enter the Penn Park lots at River Fields Drive and may be able to find some cheaper parking. Interstate 76, the Schuylkill Expressway, is right behind the university and is very busy. But it would make a convenient way to get to the game. Public transportation is easy to find and use. SEPTA mass-transit system is right off campus, and Amtrak’s 30th Street train station is a short walk away. Return on Investment 4 Aside, from parking, there is no charge to attend a UPenn tennis match. Extras 3 The view of Philadelphia is worth the trip by itself. Stop on your way to see the amazing Franklin Field just off to the side of the softball field and Penn Park. The stadium has been open since 1895 and is an amazing venue. Franklin Field is also the site of the annual Penn Relays track and field meet. This event gets the biggest crowds yearly for the stadium. Also check out the Mondschein Throwing Complex, located on the old softball field, as it is also nearby and offers a great facility for field events. Final Thoughts There is no cost to attend this unique facility, other than parking. If in Philadelphia, you should look to see if you can fit a tennis match into your schedule.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 NYTEX Sports Centre 8851 Ice House Dr North Richland Hills, TX 76180 Lone Star Brahmas website NYTEX Sports Centre website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 2,400 Not the Same Old Bull The NYTEX Sports Centre, referred to as Brahmaland by fans and staff, was built in 1999. It is a multi-purpose sports facility housing junior hockey, youth and adult hockey clubs and leagues, figure skating and hockey classes, volleyball, and a youth summer sports camp. It has two ice rinks and one hard wood floor arena containing many volleyball courts. It is very much a neighborhood sports recreation facility. It was the original home of the NAHL Texas Tornados hockey team. The Tornados moved to Frisco, TX in 2002. In the 2013 offseason, the Tornados were sold to Texas Hockey Partners (THP) and are now relocated back in North Richland Hills becoming the Lone Star Brahmas. The Lone Star Brahmas began playing in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) in the 2013/2014 season. Food & Beverage 3 There are two concessions stands; one downstairs, one upstairs. They offer snacks: Danish, muffins, oatmeal, fruit, hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, cookies, nachos, ice cream, etc. ranging from $1.50 – $3.75. There is no Coke or Pepsi here. RC Cola, Dr Pepper, Diet Dr Pepper, and 7-UP are your soda choices for $2 for a 20oz bottle. There are energy drinks and bottles of water available. No outside food or drink is allowed in the NYTEX Sports Centre. Atmosphere 3 There are no light shows, no smoke and grand entrance to the rink for the players; it is wonderfully about the hockey game. The Brahmas organization plays the Zamboni song between periods and little ones can take a ride on one. The seats rows range from 1 – 11 so one is very close to the ice no matter where you sit. The first five rows are blue plastic seats with a back, the remaining are aluminum benches some with backs, some without. There are no cup holders. I’d recommend avoiding section L, rows 6 – 11 as there is a wall and other camera and equipment blocking portions of the view of the game. The same can be said of section D, rows 9 – 11 as there is a wall making that area an obstructed view. There is what’s known as terrace seats up above one of the goal lines and seats are just $8 to sit in that area. Those are nice seats as you can watch a play develop as it comes down the ice. There is a net one must look through in this section which some folks may not appreciate. The music level and choice is perfect. It is hard to decipher what the announcer is stating. He does call goals and penalties twice, but it is still hard to understand what is being announced. It’s very cold in the ice rink itself. Wear several layers; bring gloves, ear muffs and a blanket or two, especially if you’ll be sitting on the aluminum benches. One can walk the upper concourse and get views of the volleyball courts and the secondary ice rink. The USA, Texas, and Canadian flags are proudly displayed above ‘suites’ in the arena. Within the recreation center on the lower level there are windows with chairs and table tops that allow visitors to watch hockey action on the ice; however, these windows are blocked for the NAHL games. Neighborhood 3 North Richland Hills is a suburb of Dallas, TX and is probably closer to Ft Worth, TX. There are plenty of things to see and do in both these cities which are maybe a 20 – 30 min drive away; however, be aware of the horrendous road construction in the area. The arena is near several residential areas. There is a high school across the street and a couple blocks away are strip malls, shopping, and fast food restaurants. The absolute best place to eat before or after the game is ZuRomas. This is an Italian sports bar located right in the NYTEX Sports Centre. It has a window that looks out over the secondary ice rink giving patrons the ability to watch some hockey leagues play (youth leagues and hockey clubs). It has eight or so TV’s with a variety of sports events televised. It has a variety of beers on tap and in bottles and has a full bar. Gourmet pizza is recommended and they do have other Italian offerings as well as sandwiches, burgers, and salads. It is laid back and the staff is phenomenal. There’s also the Bronco’s Sports Bar & Grill about a mile and a half away from the arena which may be worth a visit. If you want to drive through the road construction, there is the Fort Worth Zoo about 15 miles away. A nice Best Western is about three miles from the rink, though it is in the midst of all the construction. Fans 3 When was the last time you saw an individual wearing a cowboy hat, banging a miniature hockey stick on the bleachers to get the crowed riled up for an ice hockey game? As well as fans wearing those #1 Fan foam puck hats? It’s here in North Richland Hills, TX. The Brahmas fans are loud and without any prompting from a video board. Cow bells, horns, and plain old yelling, applauding, and banging on the bleachers. There are a lot of ‘hockey families’ who seem to know each other well. And the Brahmas fans welcome any and all visitors including any opposing team guests. I suspect that’s because it is about the hockey; not about disliking any opponent. Access 2 The one downfall of visiting the NYTEX Sports Centre is that you have to travel Texas state highways 183 or 121, both which have dreadful construction going on. There are half completed overpasses, mass amounts of orange cones, plenty of workers with orange vests, cement walls, dirt access roads, with minimal signage to figure out where you are. It’s horrible. Once you get off the highway, getting to arena is not that bad as it is in your typical suburban neighborhood. I did not notice any public transportation options. The closest airport is DFW (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport). Restrooms serve their purpose. There are minimal lines at the end of the game and the restrooms are serviceable but somewhat icky by that time with all the traffic throughout the day. Entry into the arena is effortless and backpacks are allowed. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices range from $8 (terrace seating) – $22 (on the glass). The plaza and mezzanine seats $10-$14 are probably your best bet. Concession prices are great and there is no charge for parking. There are ticket promotions/deals as it was a 2 for 1 ticket deal the evening I attended a game. Give the team a call, (817) 336-4423, for promotions as I’m not finding those offerings on their website. And, you get to see a hockey game without a whole lot of other thrills, a refreshing experience. Extras 3 Be sure to pick up a roster sheet at no charge at the service stand. You’ll need it because you can’t always understand the announcer. ZuRomas being right in the sports complex is a definite plus. Great atmosphere, good service, and you get to watch hockey being played as you are eating and drinking. The merchandise shop is more than a souvenir shop. It appears to be more of a shop for hockey players offering sales of hockey sticks, helmets, tape, jerseys, t-shirts. It has a stand for ‘repair’ services for hockey equipment. There are some souvenir items including cowbells but no hatpins or pennants. The Lone Star Brahmas offer a fan experience survey on their website which I find unusual. It’s a quality act that they are reaching out to fans to express their likes/dislikes to improve the game day experience. Final Thoughts One can spend an entire Saturday watching all kinds of hockey being played at NYTEX Sports Centre (if that’s your thing). For those hockey fans that live in and around the Dallas/Ft Worth area and don’t mind the road construction, make the trip to visit an NAHL Lone Star Brahmas game. The price is right, the game experience is spot on, and you’ll meet incredible hockey fans at the NYTEX Sports Centre.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 William Patrick McPherson Memorial Stadium Campus Dr Xenia, OH 45385 Central State Marauders website McPherson Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 7,000 Invincible Band in Wilberforce William Patrick McPherson Memorial Stadium is the home field of Central State football, as well as the stomping grounds of Central State’s Invincible Marching Marauders band. Located in Wilberforce, OH, the facility opened in 1949 – the team had a great deal of success on the field during the 1980s and 1990s, winning 3 NAIA championships between 1990 and 1995. However, due to financial difficulties and lack of enrollment, football was shuttered at the school in 1997 but was brought back in 2005. McPherson Memorial Stadium is named after a Central State graduate who was killed in World War II. The facility is currently beginning some pretty hefty renovations, thanks in part to a $917,000 donation from a former player, so the facilities should see a little bit of a facelift in the next couple of years. Food & Beverage 1 There is only one concessions option at McPherson Memorial Stadium, which is a temporary tent/smoker setup from Mack Daddy’s, a local area barbecue joint. For $15 you can get a combo with BBQ pork or brisket (either a sandwich or just the meat with your choice of sauce) plus two sides (collard greens, mac, and cheese, or baked potato salad). The lines are long and they sometimes run out of certain items, and the price is probably a little on the high side, but the baked potato salad is pretty good (think potato salad with bacon pieces and chives mixed in). Mack Daddy’s also sells bottled water and canned sodas for $1 each. Atmosphere 2 You can tell there isn’t a lot of money for football at Central State – there is no mascot, and the players don’t have any tent or any fanfare at all when they come onto the field at the start of the game; they just run on without much warning. There are cheerleaders, however, and like almost all HBCUs there is a pretty solid marching band that performs during the game and at halftime – the Central State band is named the Invincible Marching Marauders. On my most recent visit, the band left after halftime, but I am not sure if this is normal or only b/c it started raining at halftime on this particular day. Marauders Cheerleaders, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey There is a lot of construction going on right now at McPherson Memorial Stadium, which is obvious from the temporary fencing/police tape in certain areas, as well as the construction debris littering the ground near the grandstand. The facilities are also a little dated, which I will touch more on in the Access section. Neighborhood 2 Central State University is in a very rural area – not quite in the middle of nowhere but close – with lots of farmland and empty fields in the vicinity. There is a post office and a gas station right across the street from the general parking lot, but nothing in the way of restaurants unless you drive about 5 miles west toward Xenia proper. The campus itself has several attractions, such as the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center and the botanical gardens, while the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is not far away. There is also another college, Wilberforce University, right across the street from CSU. There are also several hotels in nearby Xenia, about 5-10 minutes from the stadium if you plan to be here overnight, but they are all of the low-price local variety, instead of the more upscale national chains you may be used to. Fans 2 The fans at McPherson Memorial Stadium are 100% friendly, and I had a blast chatting and laughing with them during the game in what turned out to be a losing effort for a team with a losing record so far this season. Unfortunately, even on my most recent visit, which was Homecoming, the home stands were only half full, and the much larger visiting stands were practically deserted. Access 3 There is VIP parking right next to the stadium, but for the rest of us, there is free parking on the other side of the (small) campus, on the other side of the roundabout at the campus’ main entrance. Most of the entrances/streets are blocked off on the game day, so there is only one way in, which is from Brush Row Road turning onto Galloway Drive, and into the parking lot from there. The main entrance on US 42 West (intersecting with Wilberforce Switch Road) is technically open, but unless you have a VIP parking pass they will turn you around and send you back out again when you get to the stadium. All of that said it is about a 5 to 10-minute walk from the free parking lot on Galloway Drive to McPherson Memorial Stadium. Once you get to the stadium there is plenty of room to move around, but if you are sitting on the visiting side (metal bleachers with no backs) you will have to go out onto the track to walk around. The main stands have chairback seats in the middle with backless bleachers on the ends – the stadium should not be very crowded, however, so even if you have general admission seats you can usually sit wherever you want – note that the main stands are better from a sun perspective, as there is more shade on that side. I did notice, however, that many fans just stood behind the fence around the field and watched from there, instead of watching from their seats in the stands. The major downside is the pretty dated bathrooms – the men’s bathroom is labeled with a cardboard sign, for example – and there is only one bathroom for each gender; the men’s bathroom is on the far side of the main stands and the women’s bathroom is on the near side. There are no bathrooms on the visiting side. Return on Investment 2 Tickets to Central State games are $21 general admission including fees, and tickets can only be purchased online – there is no ticket booth at the stadium. You can park for free if you are willing to walk a little (or can’t get VIP access), and the concessions seem a tad overpriced, although drinks are a bargain at $1 each. Extras 1 There is a table set up where you can buy Central State team gear, but the only options are t-shirts for $15 and face masks for $10. They did have a promotional tent there on the day I last visited, although it may have only been for Homecoming, where Walmart gave away free bottles of water, lens wipes, fidget spinners, plastic cups, stress balls, and other tchotchkes. Merchandise Table, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts I love football, but McPherson Memorial Stadium is, unfortunately, a tough venue for me to recommend, with its lack of concessions options, dated facilities, limited fanfare, and unsightly debris from the imminent construction. I believe it will get better with time, as the updates are put in, but for now, I would only recommend a visit if your favorite team is playing here, or if you happen to be a diehard CSU fan.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Hilton Coliseum 1700 Center Dr Ames, IA 50011 Iowa State Cyclones website Hilton Coliseum website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 14,356 Cyclones Basketball in Ames Hilton Coliseum sits on the grounds of Iowa State University and is home to the Cyclones men's and women's basketball teams as well as the gymnastics, volleyball, and wrestling teams. Hilton Coliseum opened on December 2, 1971 at a cost of $8.15 million. 14,510 fans showed up that evening to watch Iowa State defeat Arizona. The arena has played host to many NCAA tournament activities including regional basketball, regional gymnastics, and the NCAA wrestling championships. In 2006, the arena received a new video board and sound system at the cost of $2.5 million. Although not usually included with the top college basketball arenas around the country, Hilton Coliseum is a great venue to take in a game. Food & Beverage 3 Hilton Coliseum provides fans a decent option of foods, with nothing overly elaborate and prices in line with what you would expect at a Division I college basketball arena. Choices include walking tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, pizza, etc. that will run about $6-$7. Snacks, desserts, and nuts run about $4-$6. Your best bet for a drink is $6 for a bottomless soda. Pepsi products are served at Hilton Coliseum. Also available are coffee, hot chocolate, and water. As with many college arenas, alcohol is not served. Atmosphere 4 In Hilton Coliseum, the concourse is separated from the arena so when getting food or a drink, you can't see the game. One spot in the concourse worth seeing is the entrance to Johnny's (a spot for donors to get food and drinks). Johnny's refers to legendary basketball coach Johnny Orr, who coached the Cyclones from 1980-1994. The entrance includes display cases with lots of different memorabilia from Coach Orr's tenure with the Cyclones. Entering the seating area, you are met with cardinal and gold, the schools colors. As the team enters the court, the Cyclone alarm blares and the fans come to life and stay engaged in the game throughout. Every seat in the arena is a theater cushioned seat and they are quite comfortable. Banners adorn the ceiling around the arena with all the accomplishments of the team proudly on display. The video board over the court provides fans an easy opportunity to keep updated on stats and see replays. Neighborhood 4 Hilton Coliseum is located on the Iowa State campus and sits near Jack Trice Stadium, home of the Cyclones football team. As such, there isn't much right outside the venue but minimal driving will open up a litany of choices. Welch Avenue is a few blocks west of Hilton Coliseum. On Welch, you can find Cy's Roost and Welch Ave Station. Both are popular before and after the game and are good places to have a drink. For lunch or dinner, there are a few places well worth going to. For comfort food and barbecue, Hickory Park on Duff Ave (the main road through town) can't be beat. They have over 100 menu selections and the barbecue is among the best around. Also on Duff is the Mucky Duck Pub. The British-themed pub has a great environment and great food, including outstanding fish and chips. Another great choice is Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grille. Great drink specials and quality food combine for a great time at Dublin Bay. Fans 5 Iowa State basketball fans are among the best I've encountered. The fans are a knowledgeable bunch and are quite loud when the situation dictates. While there are always lulls in games, those lulls are at a minimum at Hilton Coliseum. They sense the importance of certain possessions and plays throughout the game. As fans go, they are a nice bunch as well. They make no bones about who they are rooting for but are fair to the visiting team. The student section is a lively bunch. They stand throughout the game and have come up with creative ways to heckle the opposing team. The heckling is good natured which makes it much more enjoyable for the average fan. Access 4 Getting to Hilton Coliseum is easily accomplished from I-35. There are plenty of parking areas around with the football stadium and many parks and open areas surrounding the arena. The layout makes for a fairly convenient walk to the arena. Once inside, the concourses are wide enough to get through without much problem and there are ample restrooms for the crowds. Plenty of good handicapped seating areas for fans in wheelchairs are available. Return on Investment 4 Prices for games generally run $25-$50 depending on the opponent and where your seats are. With the recent success of the team, seats aren't as easy to come by but there aren't any bad seats wherever you sit. Combined with reasonable parking prices and average food prices, attending a game at Hilton Coliseum is one of the best values in the Big 12 and possibly one of the best values of any ranked team. Extras 4 An extra point goes to the game day staff. They can't be any nicer. Hilton Coliseum also boasts one of the nicer stores to pick up any Iowa State gear a fan needs. They have a large selection and the store is impeccably clean. Add another point for the banners that hang from the ceiling of the arena. The majority of the banners are cardinal and gold (the school's colors) and celebrate the championships of the sports teams. Another section has Olympic banners for former students who won gold medals in the Olympics. A final extra point goes to the band and student section. They keep the game entertaining. Final Thoughts Iowa is very much a wrestling and football state. Knowing that going in, I wasn't expecting much out of Hilton Coliseum. My assumption couldn't have been more wrong. Hilton Coliseum is a great place to watch a basketball game. The fans are into the game and are especially loud when the situation dictates. The staff is friendly and the arena is easily maneuverable. Hilton Coliseum is one of the Big 12's hidden gems and well worth the trip to take in a game in Ames.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Seth Grove Stadium 1871 Old Main Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257 Shippensburg Red Raiders website Seth Grove Stadium website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 7,700 Up With The Ship Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania (Ship or SU) is a public university in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and more than 50 master’s degree programs. Many of the original historic buildings of the campus, including Old Main, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Famous alumni of the school include Brent Grimes, former National Football League cornerback; Rob Davis, the Director of Player Development of the Green Bay Packers; and best selling author Dean Koontz. The Red Raiders are members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) and have been members of the PSAC since its foundation in 1951. The Dixon trophy is awarded to the top athletic program in the 18 university Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Shippensburg has won the trophy seven times, the most by any PSAC member. The field hockey team at Ship has been the most successful team on campus winning the national championship in Division II twice in the last six years. Football has been a strong team as well. The mascot is “Big Red,” a red-tail hawk wearing a pirates hat. The stadium is named for the late J. Seth Grove, former coach at Shippensburg. Food & Beverage 3 There is a simple food stand located on each end of the main grandstand. It is a simple affair with cheap prices and good quality. Both stands are cash only and there is not an ATM at the stadium. Across from each food stand is a temporary trailer selling french fries. Atmosphere 4 The stadium has one large main stand that holds most of the seats, while there is a small visiting stand on the far side of the field that has its own entrance. Most of the seats in the stands are bleacher type with no back. There is a decent scoreboard at the stadium. The football field does sit a bit away from the stands because of track surface. There are cheerleaders, the team mascot and a fairly large marching bad to enhance the atmosphere. Neighborhood 3 Shippensburg is a nice little town located just to the north of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as well as the Maryland border. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. You can’t go wrong with CJ’s American Pub & Grill for dinner and then stopping by Goose Bros. Ice Cream for dessert. There are other options as it is a small college town with quite a few variety of places to go. Nearby Chambersburg has many more local and chain options. Fans 4 The fans seem to attend the games well and the stands filled up fairly quickly. They are loud and exuberant. The PSAC conference offers some great local rivalries with schools such as Bloomsburg, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock and Millersville. Expect to see a decent number of rival fans in attendance. Access 4 Shippensburg is located right off Interstate 81, a major route from the south through to the northeast. Accessing the campus is easy as you get off that main road as it is marked well. The university is located about a half an hour to the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore, and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the stadium. Parking is also free. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to the game are $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and non-Shippensburg students. Shippensburg students, faculty and staff get in free. Parking is free. The value for your dollar is strong here. Extras 3 There is a large rock located next to the playing field with a large ship logo painted on it. I had a hard time finding out the significant of it, but I am sure it means something to the players and fans. There are free programs available at the games, while supplies last. A portable campus bookstore sets up shop at the main stadium entrance selling quite a bit of Ship gear. Final Thoughts Shippensburg plays a good level of football and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.