Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.00 Larry Mahaney Diamond 278 Whites Bridge Rd Standish, ME 04084 Sebago Slammin' Salmon website Larry Mahaney Diamond website The Slammin’ Salmon In the summer, Maine’s lakes region is a popular retreat, drawing visitors looking to beat the heat. Tucked into this scenic area is Larry Mahaney Diamond at Saint Joseph’s College, home to the Monks baseball team. During the summer months, the ballpark plays host to the Sebago Slammin’ Salmon of the Greater Northeast Collegiate Baseball League (GNCBL). The GNCBL is now in its second season of assigning teams to dedicated home fields. Previously, games were played at various sites around the area. In 2024 the Slammin’ Salmon split their home schedule between Mahaney Diamond and St. Louis Field in Biddeford, but now solely play at Mahaney. Mahaney Diamond is one of the top amateur baseball venues in Maine, frequently hosting the state’s high school championship game.   Food & Beverage   0 There are no concessions available at Mahaney Diamond, but fans are welcome to bring their own food and drink to the ballpark. While this might be an inconvenience, the ability to bring outside food provides fans with the opportunity to go beyond the typical stadium fare.   Atmosphere   3 Mahaney Diamond is a rather basic facility, with three sets of aluminum bleachers encircling home plate and shaded by trees overhead. Two additional sets of bleachers sit beyond the visiting dugout, though they are not protected by netting, so it really isn’t the place to be overly distracted. Many fans choose to sit in tailgating chairs along the grassy hillside on the first base side of the field. The woods surrounding the area also truly make it a relaxing location to watch baseball. The stadium setup is a bit interesting; a crow’s nest of sorts sits atop the visiting team’s dugout and press box, while game operations are built atop the home dugout. The school’s softball field sits beyond right field, so close that the two fields share a portion of the outfield fence. The baseball field plays a bit short at 320 feet down each line, and just 380 feet to center field. Left field is guarded by a large blue wall that makes shots in that direction a bit more challenging, but also gives the field a bit of character, rather than having just a single, uniform height fence all the way around. There is not much here when it comes to the game presentation – no walkup music, no mid-inning games; just the game in its most basic form.   Neighborhood   2 Mahaney Diamond is located in the town of Standish, part of Maine’s western lakes region. While the field sits in Standish, most nearby dining and attractions are just up the road in Windham, along the busy stretch of US Route 302, which is lined with both national chains and locally owned favorites. For early weekend games, Chute’s Family Restaurant is a popular spot for breakfast. Alternatively, if heading straight to the field Amato’s is a convenient stop for a sandwich or snack to bring to the game. Or, if you are looking for a post-game weekend meal or pregame weekday bite, there are several solid options along 302, including Cormier’s Dog House, Luchador Tacos, and Fire & Ice Maine’s wood-fired pizza. There is also Pat’s Pizza, a Maine institution for over 75 years, though some feel the quality has declined in recent years. The area near Larry Mahaney Diamond is best known for its proximity to Sebago Lake, one of the largest and most popular lakes in the state of Maine. Sebago Lake State Park is about 20 minutes north of Saint Joseph’s campus; the park offers both daily beach access and camping sites. One of the larger campgrounds in the area, Point Sebago, has a beautiful resort golf course, and Seacoast Adventure on Route 302 offers family-friendly fun, including mini-golf, go-karts, and a seasonal water park. Because the region caters more to lake tourism, vacation rentals are the more common desire, so there is not an overabundance of hotel options in the area. Of the ones in the area, most are more independently owned motels.   Fans   2 Most of the teams throughout the GNCBL are not necessarily community-based organizations, but instead centered around attracting the families of players. Attendance at Larry Mahaney Diamond tends to be modest, with most games drawing fewer than 100 fans. Slammin’ Salmon games typically are made up of mostly player friends and families, and at this point the team does not yet have much of a local following. Overall it is a relatively laid-back environment, fitting the casual nature of the league overall.   Access   3 Mahaney Diamond’s location in Standish makes it one of the more rural sites in the GNCBL. US Routes 202 and 302 provide the most direct access to nearby Windham, but both can get congested in the summer months with traffic heading to the lakes. For those coming via the Maine Turnpike, the Gray exit connects to Route 202/115, and leads into Windham as well. Saint Joseph’s College is tucked away on the shores of Sebago Lake, and even with GPS, the entrance can be easy to miss. Access is via the main gate onto McAuley Drive, with an immediate left turn into a dirt parking lot, a turn that can be easy to second-guess despite what your GPS directions say. From the lot, it is a short walk down a mild incline to the seating area. While most of the field is easily accessible, the third base side is more limited due to the presence of batting cages and field maintenance equipment along the fence line.   Return on Investment   3 There was no charge to attend the most recent game I attended. The field’s open layout – with no exterior fencing and a hillside next to the parking lot offering clear views – makes it difficult to restrict access to only those seated in the bleachers. Online ticket prices for the Slammin’ Salmon are listed at $11.75, which appears to be the standard rate across the league for the 2025 season. That price feels steep, however, compared to teams like the Sanford Mainers of the New England Collegiate Baseball League, who play at a higher competitive level and charge nearly 25% less for admission.   Extras   1 Saint Joseph’s College has a 2-mile walking trail that runs through campus, around the school’s athletic fields, and through the woods along the shores of Sebago Lake.   Final Thoughts Summers in Maine bring with them a more relaxed way of life, where time seems to slow down, which perfectly complements the games here. There is not going to be a wow factor in the experience at Larry Mahaney Diamond, including no wacky mid-inning contests, nor sound effects following every pitch. It is the drone of boat motors in the distance mixed with dugout chatter, the pop of a mitt, and the crack of the bat, all perfectly overlaid to create a combination of nature and baseball that truly gives all the vibes of summer baseball in Maine.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 R. L. Graves Athletic Field 2 Fort Road South Portland, ME 04106 South Portland Puffins website R. L. Graves Athletic Field website Puff Up Founded in 2017, the Greater Northeast Collegiate Baseball League (GNCBL) is a summer league based in Maine that gives college players a chance to develop during the summer months. In its early years, the league operated with a nomadic model; teams traveled throughout Maine and New Hampshire to play games at various local fields, without fixed home venues. That changed in 2024, when the league was sold and reorganized to focus on community-based franchises, each tied to a specific home field. The shift brought greater structure, local identity, and fan engagement to the league. Team rosters are primarily made up of college players who attend Maine schools or who are Maine natives returning home for the summer. One of the new franchises in the reorganized GNCBL is the South Portland Puffins, who began play in 2025. They call R. L. Graves Athletic Field home, located on the waterfront campus of Southern Maine Community College. While the field had hosted GNCBL games in the past, this is the first time South Portland has had a team of its own.   Food & Beverage   1 A small snack table sits behind the modest press box, offering a limited selection of candy bars, chips, Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and bottled Gatorade. It is nothing elaborate, but it gives fans some basic options to grab a quick drink or snack during the game.   Atmosphere   3 Graves Athletic Field is a bare-bones setup, just a baseball diamond and backstop, with a small set of bleachers and a game operations shed behind home plate. A small electronic scoreboard sits in the outfield, though it is not used during Puffins games. The field directly abuts the school’s softball diamond, even sharing part of the left-field fence. The field is backdropped by boats moored in Portland Harbor, just off Willard Beach, and the 19th-century brick buildings of Fort Preble, a coastal defense fort first established in 1808. Despite the basic setup, game day comes together better than might be expected. There is a public address announcer introducing batters, as well as playing walk-up songs and music between innings. Most fans bring tailgating chairs or just find a spot on the fence along each of the base lines to watch the game from. This truly is baseball in its simplest form, in a picturesque environment.   Neighborhood   4 Graves Athletic Field sits on the campus of Southern Maine Community College in South Portland, on what was once part of historic Fort Preble, a coastal defense installation built shortly after the Revolutionary War. Though the fort was active for over 140 years, the only known shots fired in conflict here were warning rounds at a Confederate ship during the Civil War. Today, several of the original brick structures still stand throughout campus. The area also features Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, located just a short walk along the Spring Point Shoreway Trail. Visitors often enjoy walking the granite breakwater that stretches out into Portland Harbor to get a closer look. Just off campus is Willard Beach on Simonton Cove, a small, quiet spot popular with locals looking for a peaceful place to relax by the water. If you are looking to grab a bite to eat before or after a Puffins game, there are several local spots within walking distance – Spring Point Tavern, El Corazon Casita, and North 43 Bistro each offer a different flavor of coastal Maine dining. Just up the road, Lady Shuckers Snack Shack serves oysters on the half shell, lobster rolls, and a rotating menu of sandwiches. For dessert, the locally beloved Red’s Dairy Freeze is just a short drive away. While a South Portland Puffins game may not be a destination event on its own, coastal Maine is. For nearby lodging, McKernan Inn, located right on the SMCC campus at Spring Point, is a scenic and convenient option, though it fills up quickly. Just across the harbor, however, Portland’s Old Port offers several hotel options.   Fans   2 Attendance across the Greater Northeast Collegiate Baseball League tends to be modest, with most games drawing fewer than 100 fans. At South Portland home games, the crowd is usually made up of player families and a few curious onlookers, including some spectators who stumble upon the game while heading back from the beach, or were out walking the dog. At this point, the team does not yet have a steady local following or neighborhood fan base; it is a quiet, low-key scene, typical of many summer college baseball experiences.   Access   3 Southern Maine Community College sits at the easternmost edge of South Portland, and while it is a scenic location, access is fairly limited. Broadway is the main route into the area, as well as the most direct way to reach the field. Fort Road runs alongside the ballpark, but winds through residential neighborhoods and is not a major throughway. That said, the area is served by a public bus route, with a stop just outside the ballpark, and is generally bike-friendly, providing a few different ways to get here. Parking is not much of an issue. Thanks to the evening start times and summer schedule, spots are typically available in the lots along Benjamin W. Pickett Street or even along Fort Road itself. From either place, it is just a short walk to the field. As for accessibility, there is not much that requires navigating – just a small section of bleachers and a game operations shed behind home plate. The path that many watch the game from also serves as an access the beach, but it is plenty wide enough and does not create much congestion.   Return on Investment   2 If judging the return on investment based on the listed online ticket price, $11.75 after fees, coming to a South Portland Puffins game is hard to justify, e specially when higher-level summer baseball is available nearby for less money. Adding to the dilemma is the open layout of the field; because Graves Field sits next to a public pathway to the beach and Fort Road, there is no controlled entry point. Unless someone is entering the small bleacher section behind home plate or setting up a chair directly behind the backstop, there is little way to enforce ticketing. Most of the field is visible to anyone walking by, making the idea of paid admission feel more like a suggested donation than a true ticket fee.   Extras   2 Not enough can be said about Graves Athletic Field’s location, namely backdropped by Portland Harbor and off set with the red brick buildings of campus. In addition, if you walk toward the shore, the famed Portland Headlight can be seen not too far off in the distance. There are several historic markers around the field and around the Fort Preble buildings which surround it, offering context about the site’s military past.   Final Thoughts The score given to South Portland Puffins baseball does not necessarily reflect the baseball environment at R. L. Graves Athletic Field – the field’s location is a stunning place to sit back and take in a game, while enjoying the tranquility of the harbor in the distance, while the game itself is typically entertaining enough to provide a baseball experience with a true, laidback Maine summer feel.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Cowboy Field 2307 Willett Dr Laramie, WY 82072 Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 56,000 NOTE: The Gem City Bison will not play in 2023, but plan to return in 2024. Laramie's Gem City Bison Deliver a Taste of America In many ways, the Gem City Bison exemplify everything good about small-town baseball. Laramie, Wyoming’s entry in the Independence League, offers low ticket and concession prices, seats that put fans close to the on-field action, and a slew of kids (and even a couple of dogs) enjoying it all. This new wood bat collegiate league opened play in 2022 with teams in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Idaho, and, yes, Wyoming, with the Bison and the Casper Horseheads. The Bison call Cowboy Field home. Situated on the east side of the University of Wyoming’s main campus, Cowboy Field was home to the school’s NCAA Division I baseball program until the school discontinued it in 1996. Since then, the field has hosted youth and high school baseball teams and events. The Bison have infused new life into 600-seat Cowboy Field, which opened in 1963, returning college baseball to the facility for the first time in 26 years. Fans seeking extravagance and luxury will want a different experience. But fans who appreciate good baseball, a small-but-engaged crowd, and an intimate interaction with the game will not be disappointed. The Bison have created that experience in Laramie, filling a void for a small but enthusiastic contingent of fans. Food & Beverage 2 An enticing aroma wafts from Cowboy Field into the adjacent parking lot, signaling that food is being grilled. Hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and hot dogs are the only grilled items. They are good but fans will not find much more than that. The Bison do not offer a wide variety of food and drink options. Canned beer (Budweiser and Coors) and hard seltzer (Bud Light and Topo Chico) are available, as is bottled Gatorade, water, and Pepsi products. The Bison offer only the basics. Potato chips, candy, popcorn, and snow cones are also sold at Cowboy Field’s single concession stand. The selection is somewhat limited but the food is good and the drinks are cold. Atmosphere 3 Cowboy Field is old. It opened in 1963 and served as the University of Wyoming baseball team’s home field until the school eliminated NCAA baseball in 1996. There have not been many updates to the stadium in the ensuing 26 years. The grandstand is a concrete crescent of approximately 12 tiered rows that rise behind home plate, looking to the northeast. Cowboy Field does not have permanent seats, so plan to bring a chair, a blanket, or prepare to sit on concrete. There is no seating along the outfield foul lines or beyond the outfield fences. Seats on the third base line, behind the Bison dugout, enjoy the shade for games starting in the late afternoon or early evening. It can make even a 95-degree day tolerable. Perhaps not surprisingly, the visitors’ dugout along the first base line (and the seats on that side of the field) receive an unhealthy blast of direct sunlight until the sun sets. The combination of a ballpark that has no modern amenities and a team competing in a new, amateur wood bat league would not produce a good atmosphere. However, give credit to the Bison front office and a small but enthusiastic fan base for creating a fun game day experience. Neighborhood 2 There isn’t much to the neighborhood around Cowboy Field. It sits on the east side of the University of Wyoming’s campus, near apartments and university parking and away from the heart of campus. There are no nearby shops or restaurants. During summer, when students are not on campus en masse , the environs near the stadium feel particularly empty. However, a 5-minute drive west on Grand Avenue will take you to Laramie’s Main Street, a commercial district with more than 30 places to eat and drink. Fans 4 The Bison do not draw a large number of fans. However, those that come are engaged, intelligent, and responsible for helping to create a good atmosphere for baseball. Fans respond to the action on the field and enthusiastically play along with in-game promotions. The team smartly works with local youth baseball teams to participate in pre-game introductions and promotions between innings, and kids come to Cowboy Field in large numbers. Fans also bring dogs – a great dane was recently spotted holding court in the stands to the delight of everyone. Cowboy Field Fan and Dog, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Access 2 Cowboy Field is not difficult to find and there’s more than enough free parking to accommodate fans coming to a Bison game. The stadium is about a 10-minute drive from exits along Interstate 80: take Laramie’s Third Street exit if arriving from the west and Grand Avenue if arriving from the east. The only way to access the grandstand is by walking up one of two staircases, one on the left field side and one on the right field side. Fans with mobility issues and those in wheelchairs will have a difficult time accessing the grandstand – a point that the Bison and University should work to remedy in the seasons ahead. Return on Investment 4 The Bison provide an excellent return on investment. Parking is free and close to the entrance. The most expensive seat in the ballpark costs $12. General admission costs $8, with discounts available for seniors and members of the military. The team discounts by $1 for each ticket purchased through its website. Food and beverage prices are also reasonable. Cheeseburgers ($5.25), hamburgers ($5), and hot dogs ($3) are priced well short of what fans expect to pay at a ball game. All alcoholic beverages sell for $7 per can, with soda at $3, water at $2, and candy for $2-$3. Popcorn costs $2 a bag. As with tickets, the prices for food and beverage should not break anyone’s bank. Extras 2 The Bison earn a point for their branding. The team colors (brown and yellow) mimic those of the Wyoming Cowboys – a smart marketing move to entice UW fans to buy merchandise in school colors. But the typefaces, design, and logos are as good as for any team in baseball. Now, if the team would only get a bison mascot to greet fans as they enter Cowboy Field. Another point goes to the group of young cheerleaders. They take their jobs very seriously and their efforts help fans enjoy the games. Final Thoughts A Gem City Bison game does not replicate a World Series game at Yankee Stadium; it doesn’t need to. The Bison instead provide an excellent baseball experience to a community that supports it. With the team welcoming kids into all aspects of the game – short of playing it – the Bison have a solid start to becoming an important part of the Laramie community. Follow Matt Finnigan’s stadium journeys on Twitter @mattfinniganco

Photos by Andrei Ojeda and Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way Oakland, CA 94621 Oakland Athletics website Oakland Coliseum website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 35,067 Baseball's Last Dive Bar The Oakland Coliseum, along with the city of Oakland, have taken a beating. From the highly publicized crime rates to the more recent scandal surrounding Oakland's mayor , and soon the loss of their beloved baseball team, when all is said and done, the city in the East Bay will have lost all three of their major professional teams, among other wounds dealt to the city. The Coliseum has seen happier times. From four World Champion teams and big names such as Reggie Jackson, Rickey Henderson, Catfish Hunter, Dennis Eckersley and the Bash Brothers Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco, Baseball's Last Dive Bar has its share of historical moments still deeply Rooted In Oakland . Food & Beverage 3 Because of the sparse to almost non-existent crowds, concessions are pretty limited. Choices range from the traditional Coliseum Dog and specialty dogs ,as well as fish and chips and personal sized pizzas (from Round Table), peanuts, pop corn, candy and soft serve ice cream. Bottled Coke products as well as bottled water are some of the beverages offered. Domestic and imported beer are also available throughout as well as at the Shibe Park Tavern and The Treehouse with offerings ranging from Bud Light, Stella Artois, Modelo Especial, Firestone Walker 805, Elysian Space Dust, Lagunitas IPA, Golden Road Mango Cart, Drakes Denogginizer, Holy Toledo Blonde Ale, 21st Amendment Watermelon, Henhouse Stoked Pale Ale, Blue Moon, Drakes Hopocalypse, Racer 5 IPA, and Stone Delicious IPA. If planning on visiting The Treehouse, Friday Night Happy Hour specials are offered allowing fans to arrive as early as 4:30 with tickets available for $13.70 ($10 including fees as California laws have done away with hidden fees). Atmosphere 2 Much like the maligned home of the Tampa Bay Rays, the Athletics have done their best with the stadium situation they have. The two bars in the outfield feature indoor seating areas with multiple TVs for viewing. There is also a large community garden to walk through as well. When walking through some of the main concourses, the walls have been covered with images and historical facts that follow the team’s history over the years. All of this, however, cannot hide the decrepit condition of the facility. The concourse is incredibly cramped and dark, particularly in the outfield with tons of exposed concrete, giving one the feeling they are roaming the halls of a prison rather than a ballpark. However some walls do highlight the team’s historic moments. Neighborhood 1 If you are expecting any ballpark village/entertainment vibes around the Coliseum for any pre or post game activities you will be extremely disappointed. What you will see around the Coliseum are nothing but roads and a parking lot that should offer more than enough parking for the nightly sparse crowds. Fans arriving by light rail will be traversing along a pedestrian bridge from the BART station to the sight of graffiti covered walls beside a polluted wash. Nearby businesses and eateries such as In-N-Out and Denny's have shut down due to the high rate of crime in the surrounding vicinity. The nearby Hilton is scheduled to shut its doors soon, dealing another blow to the Hegenberger Road Corridor . Fans 2 Approaching the team’s departure from Oaktown, the fans have just simply stayed away. Most nights crowds are below 10,000 and at times even below 5,000. The fans are fed up with all the empty promises of a new stadium and the failure to keep quality players to maintain a contending team. Even the most diehard of them all, the drumbeaters, the crazed fans in the bleachers known for bringing the noise with their constant drum beats at times to the angst of the visiting team, have mostly stayed away. It’s a sad scene. The fans who still do show up are some of the most passionate. These days, many A’s fans are dressed in shirts reading “SELL”. Their message to A’s management, though loud and clear, has fallen upon deaf ears. Access 4 The stadium is located right off I-880 in Oakland. If utilizing public transit, BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) offers light rail service to The Coliseum from various points throughout the Bay Area reaching from San Francisco all the way to San Jose. A Clipper Card , a stored value fare card, is required to ride BART and can be purchased at any BART station. The stored value fare card is also good for most Bay Area transit services. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Athletics games start at $15, at their lowest. Advanced planning is certainly not required. You can even walk up to the box office on gameday and purchase an actual physical ticket to add to your ballpark chasing collection of keepsakes. Because most games draw crowds of less than 10,000, you pretty much can purchase the cheapest ticket and move about most anywhere in the yard. It’s not as if the gameday staff, what’s left of it, will be vigilant about checking tickets. Extras 3 Throughout the stadium there are historic display cases and markers showing the team’s past. There are also multiple statues of players past. You can find a convenient map on the walls throughout the concourse showing all the stadium’s food options. Great Moments in A's History, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Fifty-six years of baseball history. Soon to disappear. Who's to blame? There’s enough blame to pass around from A’s ownership to Oakland City Leaders. Once the A’s complete their move to their new temporary home in Sacramento, the city of Oakland will be left with no major professional sports teams, all departing within the last 5 years. Rooted In Oakland. That was the campaign cry when the A’s were celebrating their 50th anniversary in Oak-Town back in 2018. Excitement was high that a new ballpark would be built on the site of Howard Terminal next to Jack London Square. The Rooted In Oakland campaign is now gone with nary a whimper. Fans entering the stadium through the pedestrian bridge from the BART station will now notice a barren exterior that once had banners for both the A’s and Raiders. A’s ownership is doing its best to distance themselves from anything Oakland. 2019 2024 It’s no secret the Oakland Coliseum and its surroundings are in shambles. Visiting fans have expressed concerns on various social media sites regarding a visit to the Coliseum. From my perspective, I've never had any issues around the surrounding area. Is it somewhere I'd walk alone at night? Not a chance. My advice? Utilize the BART subway system and save yourself the $30 plus fees in parking. You will always be among company as you enter and exit the stadium. Aside from maybe checking out various points throughout the stadium, with no glorified ballpark village in the surrounding area you will not be doing any pre or post game activities outside the Coliseum. It will be awhile before the wounds for the city of Oakland are healed. However, that should not prevent you from visiting the East Bay and catching a game or two before Baseball's Last Dive Bar  is a mere memory. Though the stadium isn’t much to brag about, its still filled with a deep history, having hosted 6 World Series, 4 World Champions and 21 other post season appearances combined.  Come with the mindset that all you’ll be at the Coliseum for is baseball. No other frills or distractions. No ballpark villages. No in-stadium shopping outlets or kiddie carousels. Just good old fun at the old, yet crumbling yard before she joins the exodus of Oakland Professional Sports.   Howard Terminal. What could have been...

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Spec Martin Stadium 260 E Euclid Ave DeLand, FL 32724 Stetson Hatters website Spec Martin Stadium website Year Opened: 1941 Capacity: 6,000 Stetson Football Fun The history of Stetson University Football is one that has a great span between its inception and its recent history, dotted with multiple stoppages in play. The most recent iteration of Stetson Hatters football features an enjoyable college football game day experience for fans with the beauty of a stadium situated in one of Florida’s quintessential small towns. Food & Beverage 3 There isn’t anything terribly exciting or different to eat at Stetson Football games, but nothing on the menu will cost you more than $5. At the top of that range is the $5 cheeseburger, with hot dogs or pizza slices running just $3. Drinks range from $2 to $3 for soda, water, and Powerade. Snacks including chips, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, and more range from $1 to $3. Beer also costs under $10, which is a steal for college football. Atmosphere 3 The facilities at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium are quite nice for a lower-division college football program. That said, the venue is missing some of the creature comforts of higher end stadiums. The majority of the seats are backed benches and not individual seats. However, Stetson makes up for this in overall presentation. The facilities are spotless from top to bottom, and the in-game experience is comfortable and extremely family friendly. The team’s band performs during the game and the cheerleaders are always present to perform and get the crowd going during breaks in the action. The team’s mascot roams the stadium throughout the game, taking photos with fans and interacting with kids. The south end zone features a pop-up team store as well. The Stetson Hatters have taken a bare-bones stadium and turned it into a comfortable and beautiful home for themselves with great ease. Stetson Hatter Band, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 Spec Martin Memorial Stadium may not be located on the campus of Stetson University but it isn’t far, and the venue is literally across the street from Melching Field , home of Stetson baseball. The football stadium is located just blocks from the heart of downtown DeLand, Florida – DeLand is known for being one of the quintessential small towns in Central Florida, featuring the quietness one would expect from such an atmosphere. In addition, the town is just a short drive up I-4 from Daytona Beach, only an hour from Orlando, and is surrounded by several state parks and great nature areas. For those wanting to travel and see the sights, Blue Springs State Park is home to manatees upon manatees in the winter months. In addition, the NASCAR Racing Experience is not far away, located just north on I-4 in Daytona Beach. For hotels, Comfort Inn DeLand and Hampton Inn & Suites DeLand are the closest spots. For food, Shokudo 413 is a popular sushi stop just blocks away from Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, and Doug & Lil’s Potato Patch is a popular breakfast and brunch place near the venue. Fans 4 The fans pack in Spec Martin Memorial Stadium for every game – fans are loyal and cheer on their team with as much fervor as is to be expected from a top-quality college football experience. That said, while they may not exactly be as loud and crazy as some of their FBS counterparts, the fans at Stetson are no less supportive and fun to be around. They are sport and team knowledgeable and they certainly enjoy the game day experience, from tailgating to the in-game traditions. Most of all, the fans here are welcoming, making for a very family-friendly experience. Access 3 Getting to Spec Martin Memorial Stadium involves driving on some small-town roads; either exit 116 or 118 on I-4 will take you to DeLand. Once there, the facility is off US-17 and Euclid Ave. Parking is plentiful on site and across the street, making finding a spot easy. Most lots are no more than $10-$15, even for on-site parking. Getting around the stadium is also easy, thanks to plenty of signage around to help you figure out where your seats are. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Stetson football games start at $20 for general admission and go up to $50 for the premium backed seats at mid-field. This, combined with the low cost of parking and concessions, means you can take a family of four out to the game for around $120, which is something that cannot be said for a lot of other college football experiences in Florida. Considering that the game experience is also enjoyable, it is easy to see why the return on the investment here at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium is so high. Extras 3 Stetson’s stadium is constructed so that the upper level concourse runs from the two sideline grandstand’s upper levels around the north end zone, so the venue features great views of the playing field from all angles. The team also has a massive bell that they ring on the sidelines during pre-game intros, as well as every time the Stetson Hatters score a touchdown. Stetson Hatters Bell, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey In addition, before the game a large tailgating area called Hatter Village is set up in the parking lot outside Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, complete with food trucks and fan displays – this is easily the best place to be to experience everything Stetson football has to offer before the gates open. Final Thoughts Taking in a game at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium is extremely enjoyable, and is definitely something of a hidden gem in the college football world of Florida. While many folks in Central Florida would look to UCF , USF , or UF for a local college football experience, Stetson is not to be missed – their facility is comfortable, located in a great town with plenty of local flair, and is pretty equidistant from many places in Central Florida that are hot spots for tourism.

Photos by Gary Butterworth, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Punjab Stadium Ferozpur Road Lahore, Punjab Pakistan Pakistan National Football website Punjab Stadium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 10,000 The Friendliest of Friendlies Lahore, Pakistan’s second city, has long been heralded as a cultural capital. Living up to its reputation, Lahore boasts an impressive array of parks, museums, universities, and yes, even sports venues. While an active athletic community keeps the city’s sports fields busy, the stands usually sit empty. Historically, Pakistan is a country where the culture of spectator sports begins and nearly ends with international cricket. Sadly, a 2009 terror attack on the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team not only scared off visiting international cricket teams, it all but guaranteed that Pakistan wouldn’t be able to participate in the worldwide revival of interest in the domestic version of the game. Pakistan’s sports associations, though, are not content with the status quo, and efforts to boost domestic leagues and lure back foreign teams are beginning to show results in a variety of sports. We were lucky enough to be in Lahore for a planned two-game friendly football series against Palestine, which is considered a full-fledged country by FIFA. Although the series was shortened to a single game at a lackluster venue, we were impressed by the professional production of the match. We left optimistic about the future of Pakistani football and sports in general. Food & Beverage 2 Punjab Stadium lacks any permanent space for vendors. Three or four street vendors did circulate in the crowd selling what they could carry, but the options were slim. A fist-sized portion of fried daal (lentils) in a cone of newspaper cost 10 rupees (10 US cents, or 8 Euro cents). Slices of coconut were also available at similarly low prices, equivalent to what one would pay outside of the stadium. Fans seated in the VIP area (sponsors, football officials, several Westerners, and affluent-looking fans who were escorted to the area after appearing as though they belonged there) were treated to free bottled water, Coca-Cola, and 7-Up. While we didn’t see anyone attempt to bring in outside food, it seems unlikely that it would be prohibited. Smoking is allowed in the stands. Atmosphere 3 By October, daytime temperatures in Lahore begin to drop into the “comfortable” range, but most fans still took shelter from the sun under the roof at midfield along the western sideline. In addition to the shade, the western grandstand offers the majority of the venue’s seating, as well as a view that Stadium Journey fans would enjoy. From here, fans can easily spot two neighboring major sport venues: National Hockey Stadium and Gaddafi Stadium. The midfield area directly under the roof is reserved for VIPs and features padded restaurant-style chairs. These chairs continue past the VIP fence to just beyond the neighboring Palestinian fan section. Beyond that, the remainder of seating is on concreted steps. An athletics track means that the regions behind the goals are far removed from the action and best avoided. For the Palestine friendly, the stadium was under 20% of capacity, and fans were free to roam and find their preferred place. If this venue ever attracts a near-capacity crowd, caution should be used in deciding whether to attend. The first row of seating at Punjab Stadium sits about 10 feet above field level, and there are surprisingly few exits from the seating bowl to ground level. This layout creates the potential for a dangerous crowd dynamic in a full stadium. For smaller crowds, though, this poses no real danger. Public address announcements were adequately audible and made in English. A manual scoreboard was updated when goals were scored, but no match clock is visible. Organizers did an admirable job of decorating the venue with Pakistani and Palestinian flags, as well as signage specific for the match. Given the few attempts the Pakistan Football Federation has had at staging international friendlies in recent years, they succeeded in making the match feel like an event. Neighborhood 5 Three major stadiums, a noteworthy regional cricket ground, a few smaller sports fields, and an arts and culture center make up this complex. On those all-too-frequent days when none of the venues are attracting a crowd, this complex could be a black hole in the center of the city. Thankfully, it’s not, as Lahore has succeeded in doing something that many US city planners promise, but struggle to deliver: turning the stadium district into a year-round destination that sees plenty of life even on non-event days. Gaddafi Stadium is the center of the complex’s everyday use. Restaurants, a banquet hall, and a book store are among the commercial establishments built underneath the cricket venue’s stands. With direct access from the stadium’s exterior, these establishments draw enough everyday traffic to keep the complex lively despite the dearth of event dates. Lahore’s well-known, moderately-priced Liberty Market provides an alternative shopping, dining, and lodging destination within a long-ish walk from the stadium. Given Lahore’s spread-out, decentralized and car-centric nature, most would choose to drive. Posh MM Alam Road is not much farther. All of these areas are safe and pleasant places to walk around. Fans 2 Given Pakistan’s historic ambivalence to football, the lack of a truly engaged crowd is not entirely unexpected. Despite free admission, less than two thousand turned out on a pleasant Sunday afternoon. Some wore Pakistan cricket jerseys. The crowd was well-behaved and cheered politely at the appropriate times, but was far from passionate. Next to the VIP area, a contingent of travelling Palestinian fans set up a small visiting supporters section that was livelier than the local crowd. The drum beats and rhythms were the same as one hears at football matches around the world. The words to the chants, though, were changed to reflect the unique geopolitical challenges of the visitors, as well as the close relationship between the competing teams. “Meri zameen, meri zameen?” (“My land, my land?”) “Filasteen, Filasteen!” (“Palestine, Palestine!”) “Meri jaan, meri jaan?” (My beloved, my beloved?”) “Pakistan, Pakistan!” Between this chant and “Long live Palestine! Long live Pakistan! Death to Israel!” it felt as though fans were supporting both teams. Indeed, no one in attendance seemed disappointed by Pakistan’s eventual 2-0 loss. The crowd took the idea of a friendly match to a new level. The crowd for this particular match was more than 99% male. While men dominate public life in much of Pakistan, women are generally far from invisible in Lahore. There were no signs that women were mistreated or unwelcome; in fact, a female security guard was available to screen women upon entry. Still, single women might feel more comfortable attending events here in a group. Access 4 For the match, parking at Gaddafi Stadium was doubled from its non-event rate of 20 rupees. Even at 40 rupees (USD 39 cents), parking is a bargain in a global context. For very large matches, the stadium’s own parking areas could easily fill up. However, large crowds anywhere in this complex are unheard of since 2009. All taxi or auto rickshaw drivers in Lahore will be familiar with either this venue or the neighboring Gaddafi Stadium. The venue is centrally located, but central Lahore’s unpredictable traffic adds guesswork to travel time. This particular event produced no real traffic. Punjab Stadium can also be reached from the Gaddafi Stadium stop on Lahore’s new Metro Bus BRT system. Upon arrival at the stadium, all fans go through several layers of security checks. While such checks often feel annoying at sports events, they are truly necessary here. Checks are professional, moderately thorough, and non-invasive. Men are checked more thoroughly than women. Bags and seat cushions are allowed in without any trouble after inspection. A female officer is available to inspect women and their belongings. Upon entry, fans need to ascend a set of stairs to reach the seating bowl, from where they can begin moving around the stadium. Between this and the lack of restrooms, fans with special needs may have difficulty at this venue. For most, though, attending a game here is a breeze. Return on Investment 5 A full international match for free is the best value you’ll find anywhere. In a country where international matches of any type are a less-than-annual occurrence, the value is even greater. Extras 3 The attack on the Sri Lankan team occurred just over half a mile, or just under one kilometer, from Punjab Stadium. Since then Palestine has made two trips to this complex for football, and China has made a visit for field hockey. Sports, it seems, soldier on. The fact that these events are able to be staged at all is a triumph for Pakistan. Pulling them off with such professionalism is an even greater victory.

Photos Courtesy of Visit Omaha Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Baxter Arena 2425 S 67th St Omaha, NE 68106 Omaha Mavericks website Baxter Arena website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 7,898 New to Division I, New Arena, Omaha Mavs Are on the Rise After over 50 years at the Sapp Fieldhouse, the UNO men’s basketball team has a new building on campus to call home. Baxter Arena opened in 2015, the same year that UNO completed its five-year transition into Division I athletics. The men’s and women’s basketball teams share Baxter Arena with UNO hockey and volleyball. Food & Beverage 4 All of your basics are covered at the Baxter Arena. For those looking for something a little different, take a walk around the concourse and you’ll find something that grabs your interest. Godfather’s Pizza, a popular Midwestern chain, offers pepperoni and hamburger pizza by the slice. At the 67th Street Kitchen you can find fries topped with pulled pork and cheddar cheese, loaded tater tots with sour cream, bacon, and cheese, or even “taco tots.” And basketball fans need not worry, the Baxter Arena has beer. Shock Top and Stella Artois have kiosks with a few different options to choose from. All of your domestics are available as well at $7.50 for a 20 ounce. Right next to Godfather’s Pizza on the south side of the arena is The Blue Line bar. The lines there get long, so plan for that if you’re looking for some wine or a cocktail. The Blue Line bar also has a local beer option from Infusion Brewing, which is located in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood. Atmosphere 3 The arena was built primarily for the UNO hockey team, but it is more than serviceable for other sports as well. The upper and lower bowls share the same concourse. It’s really easy to get to and from your seat, no matter where you are located. The seats are comfortable and each has its own cup holder. Most of the upper bowl is closed off for basketball games, and the arena staff puts large curtains down to help keep some of the sound in. As the fan base continues to grow, more and more of the upper bowl will be open for basketball games. The video board that hangs over the court plays host to a variety of promotions and entertainment activities throughout the game. Dance cams, kiss cams, you name it. Just be sure to stick around for the taco cannon from Voodoo Taco, a restaurant right across the street from the arena. Neighborhood 5 Baxter Arena is right across from Aksarben Village, which is a newly developed area of businesses, restaurants, shops, apartments, and student housing. For a pregame meal, Jimi D’s offers up the best food within walking distance. There’s also Dudley’s Pizza and Tavern (a popular place for UNO fans), and DJ’s Dugout, which has huge beers and more TVs than anyone else in town. There’s also Voodoo Taco, Ponzu Sushi, and a few other options. For a postgame drink, Pauli’s has become the go to spot for Mavs fans and visitors alike. It’s your standard neighborhood bar, but it’s always a good crowd after the game, win or lose. The arena is about a 10-15 minute drive from downtown and the Old Market, which is a must see for any first time visitor to Omaha. Fans 3 This is a fan base that is still growing. As the team continues to prove that it can compete at the Division I level, more and more fans will fill the seats. There are usually around 2,500-3,500 spectators at basketball games. The crowd is a mix of long time supporters (going back to the Division II days at the Sapp Fieldhouse), recent alumni, and your casual local basketball fans. UNO plays a fast-paced, exciting brand of basketball in the Summit League. Lots of the games are back and forth, high-scoring affairs. The building may not be full, but those who show up are very passionate about their team. Access 4 The arena is a short drive north of I-80. The 60th and 72nd Street exits will get you to the arena in just a few minutes. Head north until you hit Center Street, and you will run into the arena at 67th. You can’t miss it. Parking in the arena lots is free, but they usually fill up. Luckily there is more parking available in surrounding neighborhoods. Return on Investment 5 The food and drink prices are pretty standard when compared to other arenas in the area. You won’t be charged an arm and a leg for anything. Free parking definitely adds to the value. You can expect to pay $10-$15 for an upper bowl seat and an additional $20-$30 if you plan on eating and drinking at the game. Extras 4 Download the Mav Experience app to get prices, menus, a map of the arena, and game updates. Baxter Arena also has free wifi, which is a nice touch.

Photos by Martin McNelis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Hillsborough Hillsborough Stadium Sheffield, England S6 1SW Sheffield Wednesday website Hillsborough website Year Opened: 1899 Capacity: 39,812 A Traditional English Soccer Stadium Hillsborough is the home of Sheffield Wednesday in the Yorkshire district of Owlerton, which is where the club’s nickname of ‘the Owls’ is taken from. The club and its ground are steeped in history. The club have played here since 1899 and the modern day capacity is a couple of hundred short of 40,000. The team were relegated from the Premier League at the turn of the millennium and have suffered a number of highs and lows since, with the team even finding themselves in the third tier of English football in this time, under the tutelage of several managerial appointments. The club are presently in the Championship (second tier) in the 2015-2016 season, and have achieved some stability on and off the pitch in recent years. Hillsborough can boast being a popular choice with the English FA (Football Association) as a neutral venue for cup Semi Finals and for Internationals, most notably during the 1966 World Cup. It was also used during the 1996 UEFA European Championships, hosting three fixtures between Turkey, Denmark, Croatia and Portugal in group play. Hillsborough is synonymous with the 1989 disaster which saw 96 Liverpool fans lose their life due to crushing in the Leppings Lane end (known today as the West Stand) when they played Nottingham Forest in the F.A Cup Semi Final. The irony is, that for all the media and reporting on one of the most tragic events to take place at a soccer venue, Sheffield Wednesday were not even playing. The stadium has undergone a number of changes following the Taylor Report which saw all seater stadiums being compulsory in England following the events of April 1989. It would certainly not be out of place should Wednesday achieve promotion back to the top flight in the future. Food & Beverage 4 There are a number of food kiosks in each stand which are well staffed with easy access and minimum queueing. The concourses are wide to allow fans to pass through or stand at the side and eat. There are also a number of televisions mounted on the walls or suspended from the roof showing a mixture of old games and goals, along with the Sky Sports channels. There are plenty of options to choose from including burgers, hot dogs, pizza and a variety of different pies. A lot of English clubs seem to have a deal with ‘Pukka Pies’ and their advertisements can be found around the internal walls and the pitch side hoardings. There are also a number of different beverages to choose from, hot and cold, including different types of lager and beers. The prices are reasonable and in line with what you would pay in, say the city centre. Despite being served in the standard plastic tumbler for health & safety reasons, the lager is decent. Atmosphere 4 Hillsborough is a friendly venue, and this is noticeable from engagements with the stewards to the staff in the club store, programme sellers and food kiosks. All four stands are covered and provide a good view of the pitch, though there are two corners of the stadium that have had seats added to increase capacity and they are out in the open. Some English stadiums have one specific point where fans congregate and generate an atmosphere, but Hillsborough has two, the North Stand and the Spion Kop behind the home fans’ goal. Wednesday fans are also notoriously known for their drum and band that play a variety of instruments during games. They also follow the English national soccer team and can be heard during international matches. Hillsborough is impressive both inside and out, and is a must for any ‘ground hunter.’ Hillsborough has signs of both modern development and the past. The Main Stand has upper and lower tiers and was designed by Archibald Leitch, a famous architect known for his work in a lot of soccer grounds going back to the early 1900s. The Main Stand’s facade is very modern with a new roof, corporate/executive facilities and office space upgraded within the last twenty years. There is a large scoreboard which is elevated above a police control office and sits between the West and Main Stand. It displays the teams, subs, officials and during the match it provides advertising, announcements, old goals and re-runs of match action. The North Stand is single tiered, which runs the length of the pitch and has SWFC in white against the blue seats. Both the West and Kop Stands behind each goal are converted terraces, from standing areas to all seated and each have four supporting pillars, which may obscure your view. As the stadium is situated on the River Don, there is a small bridge that you need to negotiate to access the Main Stand. To the left of the bridge is where you will find the Hillsborough memorial to the fans who died there in 1989. It has become something of a shrine, with scarves and flags from many clubs up and down the country. ‘Ozzie the Owl’ is the club mascot and he can be seen pre match. There are announcements made before the match and at half time. During the match you will hear music played by the ‘fan band,’ which is not everyone’s preference, but it does add to the occasion. Tickets are available in all stands for just about every home game, with away supporters accommodated in the West Stand. The rows are spaced out well with decent leg room. The pitch is close to the stands which means you will get a more than reasonable view of the action. The two uncovered sections tend to be for overspill from the North and Kop ends and unsurprisingly are the cheapest areas within the stadium. Neighborhood 4 Wednesday’s neighbours and rivals, Sheffield United are based near the city centre, however, Hillsborough is approximately three miles further out. Along the way there are a number of pubs, shops, fast food outlets and a couple of cash lines/ATMs. There is a train, tram, and bus service which runs regularly and all of these will take you within a few minutes walk to the stadium. You can also get a taxi, which will set you back around £8. The Old Crown, Penistone Road is for home supporters and The New Barrack Tavern accommodates home and away fans. Both are about a five minute walk from Hillsborough. There are also a Burger King and McDonalds on route from the city. Fans 4 Hillsborough features vocal fans, with songs and music created throughout play, which adds to the atmosphere and occasion. Despite some hard times, Wednesday still attract a home gate of around 22,000 for home matches. Access 4 All entry points to the stadium flow well, with minimum queuing both internally and externally. There are plenty of transport options. Whether you arrive by bus, tram, or train it will not set you back any more than £3, and all options are minutes walking distance to the ground. A taxi journey varies from around £6-£8. There is also street parking and official parking areas in and around Hillsborough. Public transport is well served. Entry to the ground is by ticket (scanned at the gate upon entry), but the club have been experimenting with a designated cash turnstile for certain fixtures. Return on Investment 5 Tickets, merchandise, and refreshment prices are reasonable and competitive with other similar clubs. With a vibrant, friendly atmosphere, if you can get a decent game to entertain you, a visit to Hillsborough provides excellent value all round. Tickets for cup games are halved or discounted which encourages more families or young kids out to the games, as it can make it more affordable for the average family. Extras 4 The official match programme is a very good read, impressively edited and produced. The shop also sells some DVDs and books for between £1 and £5. Final Thoughts The site of Hillsborough is now more than a soccer venue due to the events of April 1989. The subsequent police cover up that has seen the families challenge the official findings, has seen it become something of a shrine, with the name of the stadium regularly in the limelight. It is something that Sheffield Wednesday will have to live with, but it is an impressive, nostalgic stadium which is memorable for soccer reasons, given that it has hosted many matches over the years. Many a ground hopper will take pleasure on ticking this one off their list.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Allen Arena 401 Granny Pike Dr Nashville, TN 37204 Lipscomb Bisons website Allen Arena website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 5,028 Allen Arena – Lipscomb University While Nashville might best be known for its nightlife and country music scene, tucked away in the quiet Green Hills neighborhood is the campus of the Lipscomb University Bisons. Opened in 2001, basketball at Allen Arena started with a bang, as the inaugural game was won on a half-court shot as time expired. Home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams, Allen Arena is also shared with the women’s volleyball program, which all compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference. Food & Beverage 2 Allen Arena features one small concessions stand in the main lobby. While there are a limited number of options, the prices are very reasonable – fans can choose from nachos ($4), slices of pizza ($3), popcorn ($3), candy ($2) and a wide variety of Coca-Cola beverages ($3). Lipscomb has chosen not to sell alcohol at its games. Food at Allen Arena does not provide much when it comes to choices, but it is enough to tide you over until you can grab something more substantial after the game. Atmosphere 2 Allen Arena is a modern looking facility; the school’s purple and gold colors adorn the windows of the main entrance. A smaller version of the nearby Allen clock tower has been incorporated into the arena's entrance architecture. Unlike many college basketball arenas, Allen Arena does not have an overhead scoreboard; rather scoreboards are placed in the four corners. Each end of the arena does have a video board, which seem intended to show a live feed of the game, but mostly reads “Lippy” in script lettering. The Lipscomb cheer squad puts in a lot of work during timeouts. Hardly a break in the action goes by when they are not either involved in one of the several raffles, or performing a routine before the ball is put back in play. The school mascot, Lou Bison, is present and active during the timeout promotions, but primarily sticks to the baseline area with the cheer squad. Attendance at Lipscomb is rather hit-or-miss. Games such as homecoming or the “Battle of the Boulevard”, with intercity rival Belmont University , are highly attended games – close to the 5,000 fan capacity of Allen Arena. On the other hand, most other games are lightly attended, with crowds of less than a couple thousand. Neighborhood 4 Lipscomb is in the Green Hills neighborhood of Nashville, one of the city's most popular neighborhoods. The campus is surrounded by many large, residential homes. The Green Hills Shopping Mall is within 2 miles of the Lipscomb campus and has an extensive number of restaurants. One of the highlights is Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, a Nashville staple. Fans coming to town for an extended stay can find several other sporting options to pair with a game at Lipscomb. Three D-1 college basketball programs, Vanderbilt , Belmont , and Tennessee State can all be found around the city. Professional sporting teams in season include the Nashville Predators in the city’s entertainment district, and the Tennessee Titans , who are just across the Cumberland River from downtown Nashville. Fans 2 Sustainability of basketball attendance at Lipscomb seems to be a bit of a challenge. While the high interest games mentioned, homecoming and the rivalry game with Belmont, do have near capacity crowds, the announced attendances for most games sit in the high thousand to low two thousand. The bench side of the stands is comprised mostly of alumni who are content in watching the game. They typically only get excited during good basketball plays or questionable officiating; it is not that they are silent, but it seems to be in more an appreciation of the game than being boisterous fans. The student section is comprised of approximately 200 students who populate one of the sections across from the visiting team’s bench. Other than a handful of exuberant attendees, the overall interest in the game seemed to be a bit waning. Access 3 The most direct access to Lipscomb is via Interstate-65 from the north or south, or from the I-440 bypass if approaching from the east, west, or from Interstate-24 (toward Murfreesboro). The campus is within 2 miles of both highways. Given that Lipscomb is in a large city, gridlock on the highway is always a concern when it comes to weekday games. Once on campus parking can be a bit confusing to locate – the team’s website does not provide specific parking information. The East Deck is closest to Allen Arena, and is accessible via the secondary entrance to the campus off Granny White Pike. This deck is a bit inconvenient in that there is no way inside the deck to go to the next level up if the current level is full. The west deck is also an option, but requires entrance via Belmont Boulevard. The primary entry point into Allen Arena is at the front of the building. Once through the doors, fans enter the lobby to face a wall of trophy cases featuring the accomplishments of each of Lipscomb’s athletics programs. To the right fans will find the Lipscomb Athletics Hall of Fame, while most general admission seating is to the left. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Lipscomb basketball games are rather inexpensive; prices start at $10 for general admission seats, while reserved seating goes for $15, with some nights offering special promotions. The Nashville Night promotion offers general admission tickets for $6.15 in representation of Nashville’s area code, for example. Paired with free parking and inexpensive food options at the concessions stand, Lipscomb offers a very well-priced basketball experience. Lipscomb does offer a Junior Bison Club that includes free admission for children to all Lipscomb athletic events for the academic year. Overall, Lipscomb does offer very reasonable prices, and does make it affordable for families to attend games. Extras 3 The trophy cases in the main lobby do an excellent job highlighting the accomplishments of Lipscomb from their journey between NAIA and NCAA. A good accompaniment to the trophies won are the Hall of Fame plaques dating back to 1986. The hall of fame is very thorough in recognizing those who have left their mark on Lipscomb athletics. Adults bringing younger fans to the game will be pleased to know Lipscomb has kept them in mind. It might be a bit unrealistic to think young children could sustain their attention for the entire game, so to help provide a break for younger Bisons fans, there is a bounce house and balloon artists to help keep them entertained, when staying in their seat becomes too much. Lipscomb does a lot to make children part of the in-game entertainment. One of the big thrills for kids in attendance is when they are called to the court to help the cheer squad with the t-shirt toss. Lipscomb does a lot to make the game a memorable experience for its younger fans. Final Thoughts While Lipscomb basketball games do not have the high intensity atmospheres found at some universities, there definitely is thought put in to making the game an enjoyable experience for the entire family. While a game at Lipscomb’s Allen Arena might not be a destination stop, it can be a decent complement to any visit to Nashville.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Buccaneer Field 9200 University Blvd North Charleston, SC 29406 Charleston Southern Buccaneers website Buccaneer Field website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 4,000 Big South Pirates The Charleston Southern University Buccaneers football program began in 1991, but their home turf, the aptly-named Buccaneer Field, opened 21 years earlier in 1970. The facility is a multi-purpose one with a running track surrounding the football field, and two sets of grandstands (one on each side of the field) behind the track. The CSU Buccaneers compete in the Big South Conference of college football’s Football Championship Subdivision (FCS); the stadium holds 4,000 fans. Food & Beverage 3 Buccaneer Field has more than enough options to keep you satisfied during the game – the main stand on the home side features burgers, hot dogs, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches, as well as nachos, popcorn, packaged candy, and chips. There is also a standalone Chick-fil-A stand toward the north end zone, as well as a couple food trucks/carts near the south end zone which offer additional fare such as fancy donuts, teriyaki or sesame chicken bowls, peanuts, egg rolls, and Italian ice. The lowest priced item at the stadium is a donut for $1.50, while the highest are the chicken bowls for $8; burgers are a very reasonable $4, with hot dogs selling at 2 for $5. Drinks include bottled water, canned or fountain sodas, and Gatorade for $1 to $3. Atmosphere 3 Buccaneer Field provides a solid atmosphere for college football – while the venue is not large, the stadium fills up pretty well for the average game. The west stands are the home side and include the press box tower, and most of the fans sit on this side. Almost all the seats in the facility are metal bleachers, but at the top of the middle section on the home side you can chair back benches and bucket-style chair back seats, decked out in the blue and gold of the Pirates. There is a pirate-themed play area on the south side for the kiddos, as well as some field-level seats behind the north end zone. The CSU band, or Pride of the Lowcountry as they are called, also plays modern music during breaks in the action, and of course performs before the game and at halftime. The PA announcer also helps keeps the fans entertained with very lively music during timeouts, and of course the Buccaneers staff throws out t-shirts to the crowd to keep them revved up and on their feet. Neighborhood 4 There is a gas station across the street, but there aren’t really any restaurants within walking distance of Buccaneer Field, being on campus as it is, but there are plenty within a 3 to 4-mile drive south down Highway 78 (aka University Blvd). There are a slew of Mexican restaurants in that direction plus Cracker Barrel, Carraba’s, Mei Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar, and Phuong Vietnamese Restaurant to name a few. But if you are looking for someplace to hang out before or after the game, and maybe take in some other college football action on the day, check out Montana’s a couple miles east of the stadium. If you plan to be in town for the day or weekend, there are plenty of historical sites to take in around the Charleston area, such as the H.L. Hunley, the first combat submarine to sink an enemy warship, which is on display in North Charleston. In fact, nearby Johnson Hagood Stadium (home of the Citadel Bulldogs football team ) was the original burial site for some of the sailors who served on the Hunley – their remains were mistakenly covered over when that stadium was constructed, and were subsequently moved to Magnolia Cemetery when the remains were found by historians in 1999. Besides the Hunley, the first shots of the Civil War were fired right here in Charleston at Fort Sumter, or for more recent naval history check out Patriot’s Point, where the main attraction is the WWII aircraft carrier USS Lexington. In addition, you can also find haunted ghost tours in downtown Charleston (if you are into that sort of thing). Fans 3 CSU boasts a pretty good group of fans, who cheer for their team and generally pay attention to the game. They understand the game and know when the ref makes a bad call, and they know when the game is on the line. You will see plenty of team gear in the home stands, but if you forgot yours there is a table set up selling Bucs team gear. Access 5 Buccaneer Field is in a good area traffic-wise, so the stadium is quick and easy to get without having to spend too much time waiting at lights. In addition, there is plenty of parking for $5 right across the road from the stadium if you don’t have a parking pass, so you won’t have far to walk once you get there. Once you are inside, there is plenty of room to move around, and the concessions lines are not long at all. There are also bathrooms right underneath the concourse, and you can walk around and watch from wherever you want, even if you have a general admission ticket (the upgrade seats typically will not be filled all the way). Return on Investment 3 Tickets to football games at Buccaneer Field start at $20 for general admission, which is pretty average/slightly on the low side for FCS football. There are some stadiums that charge a lot more (starting in the $30s) but you can also find a few that are a little cheaper. But on the plus side, $5 for parking is an absolute bargain, and the concessions here at CSU are more than fair. Extras 3 The play area for the kids is a nice touch, and instead of foam fingers fans can get foam pirate sabres, which all the fans seem to enjoy (the adults too, if I may say so). I did not see a mascot, but the band and PA announcer do a great job with the music, providing a fun atmosphere. Foam Sabre, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Buccaneer Field is a great little stadium at which to take in some football, and Charleston itself is a great tourist destination, especially in the fall when it is not quite so hot; if you have the time, make the trek down to Charleston and take in a Bucs game on the way – go Bucs!

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Thomas Stadium 410 Lee Street Johnson City, TN 67604 East Tennessee State Buccaneers website Thomas Stadium website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 1,000 In the Shadows of the Mountains, Under Skies of Blue Opened as a full stadium in 2013, Thomas Stadium became the home field of the East Tennessee State University Buccaneers baseball after 55 seasons at the off-campus Howard Johnson Field.  The Bucs had shared the field with the Johnson City Cardinals of the affiliated Appalachian League, now known as the Johnson City Doughboys , of the summer collegiate version of the Appy League. Members of the Southern Conference since 2013, East Tennessee State is still in search of their first SoCon baseball title since returning to the conference after a 9-year stint as members of the Atlantic Sun Conference. During their stay in the A-Sun, the Bucs would claim the 2013 tournament championship, advancing to the NCAA baseball regionals.   Food & Beverage   3 Concession choices are a bit light when it comes to items of substance. Outside of a hot dog or nacho chips with cheese, there is not much by way of filling options. However, while entrees are limited, there are several snacks, including  candy, chips, pretzels, and peanuts. Drinks include Pepsi products, Gatorade, and bottled water. Alcohol is sold but is limited to White Claw, Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, and Coors Light. With several craft breweries just a mile away, it is a bit disappointing local craft beers are not available.   Atmosphere   4 Upon their initial approach to Thomas Stadium, fans are greeted by a small, brick entryway with ticket windows on either side; most likely the window to the first base side of the field will be open to purchase tickets. Visitors pass through a small rotunda of East Tennessee State baseball history before making their way to the seating area. From here the nearby Round Knob and Buffalo Mountain are on display in the foreground, while the mountains of the Appalachian Trail are visible in the distance. Thomas Stadium has a fully FieldTurf surface backed by a symmetrical, 8’ wall running 325’ down each line, 370’ to each power alley, and 400’ to center. A traditional inning-by-inning scoreboard is topped by a large LED board, which was not working during the visit when this review was conducted. The seating bowl is built into the side of a rather large embankment. A steep grassy area runs down the third baseline where strategically placed landscaping deters fans from accessing the area, but there are no signs asking fans to stay out. While watching the game from the grassy hill can be relaxing, the pitch of the embankment would make it difficult to sit anywhere other than at the very top. In a bit of an old time baseball tradition of “stealing” a peak of the game from outside of the stadium, some fans choose to watch from the small berm of the neighboring apartment complex’s parking lot, rather then coming into the stadium. Tracks of the East Tennessee Railroad pass just beyond the right field fence, bringing back a bit of nostalgia from the early days of baseball, when many fields were located close to the town train depot. It is not uncommon for a train to pass by during the game, or during pre-game warmups. The in-game presentation is very reminiscent of a typical minor league game, just without scoreboard games and interactions. Down times between pitches are filled with a trumpeted call of “CHARGE,” or a variety of other audio drops designed to rattle the pitcher. Their use at almost every opportunity does seem to be a bit of overkill, and comes close to crossing a line of inserting itself a bit too much into the game at times. A nice amenity for those seated in the covered section behind home plate is the overhead heater that runs the entirety of the section, providing some relief from the possible chill of the Tennessee mountains during night and early season games. Covered seating is available in the section behind home plate, which does provide relief from the sun. Those looking to take in some sun, but not wanting to have the glare in their faces. will want to look for a seat along the first base side of the field.   Neighborhood   5 Thomas Stadium is set in amongst a handful of off campus housing and apartment complexes, just outside downtown Johnson City off West State of Franklin Road, which runs through downtown and to the East Tennessee State University campus. Johnson City is a stealthy, hip town with a vibrant arts scene, several breweries, and restaurants in its downtown area, just over a mile from Thomas Stadium. King Commons Park is a popular gathering area where adults can grab a pint, while kids play on the nearby playground or explore the stream that runs through the greenspace. A bit closer to the stadium, the former buildings that made up the East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Depot have been repurposed into the popular Burger & Barrell, Yee-Haw Brewing Company, and the White Duck Taco Shop. The downtown area has no less than a half-dozen breweries in the few city blocks that make up the area. The city has also done a wonderful job moving into the 21st century while keeping its 19th century charm.   Fans   3 Johnson City has a long history of baseball, dating back over 90 years, when they began hosting the Appalachian League. This love of baseball in Eastern Tennessee runs deep and is still evident today. Averaging close to 400 fans per game, ETSU ranks in the top half of the Southern Conference in attendance. In addition, Buccaneer fans do a good job of making that 400 seem to be much larger, with their boisterous support of the Bucs – the East Tennessee State faithful are into the highs and lows of every inning.   Access   3 Thomas Stadium is less than two miles off I-26 that runs locally from Asheville, North Carolina to nearby Kingsport, Tennessee. I-26 meets up with I-81 15 miles outside of Johnson City; I-81 is a bit more of a traveled interstate, running east of Knoxville up through the northeastern states. Accessing Thomas Stadium is rather straightforward. A sizable parking lot is positioned outside of the first base side of the stadium, just a short walk to the front entrance. A smaller parking lot runs along the outside of the third baseline, but does present more danger of wayward foul balls. Fans enter a small rotunda that accesses either side of the stadium to an upper-level concourse around the top of the seating bowl. Due to the press box and television camera location, fans must return to the rotunda to access the opposite side of the field. It is not that it is cumbersome to get to the other side of the seating bowl, but just a bit inconvenient.   Return on Investment   5 Reserved seating behind home plate between each dugout goes for $10, while general admission seating goes for just $5, and extends from the dugouts down each line. Reserved seating does come with overhead cover, so the extra might be worth the expense, but $5 seating would be just fine too, as plenty of the seats in these areas will be in the shade for a majority of the game. Parking is also free, so even $10 with no parking fee is a great deal. Despite limited concession options, prices are kept reasonable and not subject to stadium inflation.   Extras   3 The entry rotunda provides fans a deep look at the history of Buccaneer baseball. On display is an extensive biography of the career of former ETSU baseball player and coach, Jim Mooney – a part of the St. Louis Cardinals legendary “Gas House Gang,” Mooney won the 1934 World Series. The careers of other Bucs who have gone on to professional baseball are also recognized, most notably Atlee Hammaker – Hammaker most recently starred for the San Francisco Giants and earned All Star honors in 1983. Both sides of the grandstand have large patches of grass that give kids an area to play or toss a baseball around during the game. A small but nice touch is the open-air radio booth; games when the window is open give fans in nearby seats real time play-by-play commentary of the game.   Final Thoughts Johnson City has a rich baseball history dating back nearly a century, and the Buccaneers have played a large role in building the area’s love of the sport. From the days of sharing the historic Howard Johnson Field with the Appalachian League teams in the city, to opening their own stadium, the history of baseball here goes a long way in curating the city’s love of the sport. Thomas Stadium gives visitors a highly enjoyable college baseball experience with an atmosphere that is extremely supportive of the Buccaneers. Even though Johnson City might be a bit challenging to get to, all that the city has to offer more than makes up for the time it might take to get here. In all, baseball at ETSU is a sneaky, impressive college baseball experience.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Colorado State Stadium 751 W Pitkin St Fort Collins, CO 80521 Colorado State Rams website Canvas Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 41,200 Rams Football Finally Back on Campus The Colorado State Rams had waited nearly 50 years to play football on campus again, and on August 26, 2017, that dream finally became a reality with the opening of Canvas Stadium, a sprawling 17.5-acre multi-purpose venue in the heart of campus; Colorado State would go on to defeat Oregon State on opening day by a score of 58-27. Costing nearly $240 million to build, the stadium complex includes both an alumni center and an academic center, designed to bring faculty and students into the space year-round. In addition, the facility includes advising services for students, offers banquet spaces for use by CSU alums, and brings all of Colorado State’s football operations under one roof, with coach’s offices, training spaces, and even a full-size practice field next door to the stadium. Three other key features of the new stadium include the New Belgium Porch, a craft beer space behind the north end zone that will be open on non-event days (and is also one of the most coveted seating areas in the stadium), the Hall of Champions beneath the west grandstand, which showcases the history and achievements of the Colorado State football program, and perhaps most prominently, a 2,000-pound sculpture of two life-size rams butting heads, aptly named “Rocky Mountain Rumble”, located on the north side of the stadium; this 21-foot sculpture was crafted by the late Dawn Weimer, and took 5 years to create. Before moving to Canvas Stadium, the Rams played at Sonny Lubick Field at Hughes Stadium, a slightly smaller venue located about four miles west of campus. The Ram’s original on-campus home was Colorado Field, a 12,000-seat facility which opened in 1912 – Colorado Field was torn down in 1972; the site is now the location of Jack Christiansen Track, home to CSU’s track-and-field teams. Food & Beverage 4 Canvas Stadium has a wide variety of food and beverage options available at its concessions stands; perhaps not everything you could ask for in terms of stadium fare, but enough to satisfy most tastes. Food options include burgers, chicken wraps, salads, pizza and cheesy bread from Marco’s, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, fries, peanuts, kettle corn, and packaged candy; prices range from $3.50 for the smallest items to $10 for combo baskets. Drink options include coffee, hot cocoa, bottled water, fountain soda, fresh-squeezed and frozen lemonade, and of course, beer and wine. While beer is available both in bottles and on tap from the regular concessions stands all along the concourse, you can find many more craft beer options behind the north end zone on the New Belgium Porch. The New Belgium Porch offers standing room only, but is open to fans from all other sections; in fact, Canvas Stadium seems less full than it actually is, since so many fans move down from their regular sections to watch the game from the New Belgium Porch. Atmosphere 5 Canvas Stadium incorporates a beautiful mid-century modern design, from the Rams-logo elements interspersed along its exterior, to the mix of Colorado sandstone, metal panel, and glass materials that tie into the rest of the architecture on campus, to the wide-open plazas that function as outdoor terraces for year-round use. Be sure to take a walk all the way around the stadium before or after the game to see the breathtaking architecture, complete with plenty of greenery, so much so that it is easy to forget you are high in the Rocky Mountains. Also be sure to stop by the Hall of Champions, under the west stands, to see the many trophies and other items on display. Once you enter the stadium, be on the lookout for CAM the Ram, CSU’s live mascot who makes appearances at football games and other events on campus. CAM is an abbreviation of Colorado State University’s original name (Colorado Agricultural and Mechanical College), and he has a whole troop of handlers who help bring him onto the field during the game; CAM even has his own trailer, which is parked outside during the game by the east stands. Also be sure to get to the game early to watch the CSU Marching Band during pregame, where they spell out C-S-U and create other formations; the band looks smart in their white uniforms, complete with green-and-gold logo sleeves stretched across the bells of their tubas. Neighborhood 3 Located in the heart of Colorado State’s campus, Canvas Stadium is located near some on-campus housing. As such, there are lots of small quick-service type restaurants located within walking distance of the stadium, particularly along West Elizabeth Street near Moby Arena, home of CSU’s basketball teams. There are a couple of more substantial eateries within driving distance, however, such as Café Bluebird, which is open for breakfast and lunch, and The Lost Cajun, which features real Cajun cuisine such as beignets and gumbo (both of these restaurants are located northeast of campus). If you are going to be in town for the weekend, and are looking for something to do before or after the game, like many places west of the Mississippi the main attractions near Canvas Stadium are the natural and wildlife areas, worth exploring for their breathtaking scenery and fresh air. A couple such options are the Cache La Poudre River and the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, both of which offer hiking and other activities. Fans 4 Fans at Canvas Stadium show up in force, and most are adorned in CSU colors, and are proud to be cheer on their team. While the new stadium doesn’t quite sell out, the team is seeing much bigger draws than they enjoyed at Hughes Stadium, both because of the improved facilities and because the on-campus location is more convenient for students; opening day drew a crowd of about 37,000, just shy of the stadium’s capacity of 41,000. I mentioned earlier that certain parts of the stadium seem empty, and this is mostly due to the fact that fans are allowed to use tickets from their regular seats to get onto the New Belgium Porch, and many fans can be seen watching the game from there. Technically only the first few rows of the north end zone are sold as standing-room-only seats; the rest of the fans in this area are from other sections, so even though the north end zone seems full, it doesn’t count toward capacity, since most of it isn’t “real” seats. Access 4 Getting to Canvas Stadium isn’t very difficult, except for the potentially long drive from the nearest airport or major city, as Ft. Collins could be considered a little off the beaten path. However, you should be able to easily find parking within a few blocks of the stadium for around $20, as long as you get there a little early (half an hour before the game or so). There are not any large lots to speak of, but plenty of residents and businesses rent out spaces in their private lots or driveways, and you can enter the stadium from any side. Once you get inside Canvas Stadium, however, be prepared for some long lines, especially during halftime, as there are a lot of people packed into a small concourse, particularly on the west side. There appear to be plenty of bathrooms, but perhaps not enough concessions stand to accommodate the crowd size; your best bet is actually to walk around to the south side or the east side (where the students are), as those sections are far less crowded than the “alumni stands” on the west. The Hall of Champions is also a great place to go to beat the crowds, as this area seems to be pretty deserted while the game is going on. The New Belgium Porch also empties out at the beginning of the fourth quarter (predictably), as beer sales end at that time. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to games at Canvas Stadium run about $40 for the general public, which is in line with prices at other similarly-sized college football venues. Given all the amenities provided at the new facility, for example the Hall of Champions, the New Belgium Porch, and the Rocky Mountain Rumble statue, not to mention the stadium design itself with all of the CSU elements built it, this is a great value. Furthermore, you may even be able to get tickets cheaper on the secondary market, since (so far) the new stadium is not quite selling out. Extras 5 The Colorado State Rams are a decent football team, with winning records over the past few seasons, although bowl game victories have been hard to come by of late. Nevertheless, the beautiful, brand-new stadium provides a big incentive for football fans to make the trek to Ft. Collins; the university has pulled out all the stops to make this a great atmosphere for college football, and your visit to Canvas Stadium will not disappoint.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Madison Square Garden FANFARE Score: 4.29 Madison Square Garden 4 Pennsylvania Plaza New York, NY 10001 St. John's Red Storm website Madison Square Garden website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 19,812 Red Storm Ready to Make Noise at MSG St. John’s Red Storm basketball, a member of the 11-team Big East Conference, has not made the NCAA Tournament since 2019 but appears to be on the way back under legendary coach Rick Pitino. If early-season success is any indication, the Red Storm will be packing Madison Square Garden for the remainder of Big East Conference play. St. John’s calls four arenas home. The Red Storm play eight games at the "The World's Most Famous Arena", six at Carnesecca Arena on campus in Jamaica Queens, three at UBS Arena in Elmont New York, and one at Barclays in Brooklyn. Pitino signed a six-year, $20 million in the offseason and promptly brought in 11 new players to the roster. The excitement and the crowds have followed him to the Garden. The legendary building which houses the New York Knicks and New York Rangers is also famous as a major concert venue. Billy Joel will end his monthly residence at the World’s Most Famous Arena with his 150th-lifetime performance in July. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage choices are varied and endless. In addition to the basic fare, there are tacos, Japanese food, sushi, gourmet burgers, barbeque, and deli sandwiches. Some Stadium Journey recommendations include the Teriyaki Bowls, burgers at Fuku Spicy Chicken Sandwiches ($16), The Daily Burger (Cheeseburger $15), pastrami and corned beef ($19) at Carnegie Deli, and tacos at Avenue Cantina. The multitude of stands means fewer lines and waiting. There are several drink and snack stands and also a few Beverage Marts where fans can grab a beer or soft drink and go. Draft beer is $15.50 for domestic and $16.50 for imported. The Craft Beer Garden offers at least 30 different varieties of beer including lagers, pilsners, and IPAs. Atmosphere 4 The Red Storm is drawing better these days which comes along with winning. St. John’s brings an exuberant team of cheerleaders, a dance team, and a band which enhances the game-day experience. The Garden does a solid job of transforming the arena into a home-court feel. The scoreboard, signage boards, and ceiling are all illuminated red. The game starts with the obligatory hype video, then player introductions include a plume of flames. On this visit, MSG was hosting The Holiday Festival which used to be a two-day tournament the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Now it’s a one-day tripleheader event in early December. Georgia Tech and Penn St. battled in the first game, St. John’s hosted Fordham in Game 2 and the St. John’s women played Villanova in the nightcap. Neighborhood 4 The area around MSG, located in midtown Manhattan, is busy and boisterous. Pedestrians, taxis, trucks, cars, and buses flood 7th and 8th Avenues and 34th Street even late at night. Penn Station is situated beneath the building and the new bold and beautiful Moynihan Train Hall (Amtrak and Long Island Railroad) is directly adjacent to MSG on 8th Avenue. Macy’s, Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center are within walking distance. There is the Molly Wee Pub and Mustang Harry’s for pre-gaming and also Koreatown. NY Pizza Suprema, 413 8th Avenue, is often rated one of the best pizza places in Manhattan. Fans 4 The Red Storm gets excellent support from local alumni. The fan base is starved for a winner after years of mediocrity. Led by Pitino and his ability to attract top-flight players, St. John’s should be able to satisfy their fans’ appetites. The Red Storm have not won an NCAA Tournament game since 2000. St. John’s plays six games during January and February at MSG. Expect the number of dates at MSG to increase next season if Pitino gets his way. The Red Storm only played four regular season games at the Garden last year. Access 4 Except for traffic around MSG, access is a plus. The Path Train from NJ, subway stations on 7th and 8th Avenue, LIRR trains from Long Island and Queens underneath at Penn Station, and Grand Central Station (serving Westchester and Connecticut) is about a 15-20 minute walk. Driving to MSG can be problematic coming in from the West Side Highway or East River Drive. There are plenty of parking facilities nearby so check Spot Hero or Park Whiz to prepay for parking which could be as low as $25-30. The Garden has six entrances for the general public. The main marque entrance on 7th Avenue is open but still undergoing construction. It will be a grand entrance once completed and funnel fans right into the lobby and box office. Return on Investment 4 The investment for one event at MSG is costly. The upper bowl starts at $61.The lower bowl will start around $100. Food and beverages are pricey but much more options are available and the quality has improved. Souvenirs are often costly and could be purchased elsewhere. Extras 5 Madison Square Garden opened in 1968, making it the oldest pro sports venue in the New York area and the oldest arena in both the NBA and NHL. Throughout its tenure as the city’s premier entertainment facility, MSG has hosted innumerable amount of historic events, and some of the most important are highlighted on the main concourse. Madison Square Garden, which hosts about 320 events per year, is the last venue in the NBA or NHL to not support a corporate name. MSG sports the following premium seating areas: The Hub Loft, Madison Club, Delta 360 Sky Club, and J.P. Morgan Club. There are also suites and lounges which can be rented out on a per-event basis. Over a billion dollars went into renovations to MSG during three off-seasons from 2011 to 2013. The first part of the renovation included a massive scoreboard affixed to the center of the iconic roof, while the second involved two skywalks dubbed the Chase Bridge above the bowl which provide extra seating space and feature a bird’s eye view of the floor and additional areas for media and the handicapped. St. John’s has played a game at MSG every year since 1931, a record 92 seasons. Since 1983, the Big East Tournament has been held at the Garden. The tournament is the longest-running conference tournament at any one site in all of college basketball. Final Thoughts Madison Square Garden is a must-see location for sports and entertainment fans alike. It’s an action-packed venue both inside and out. It can be loud and crazy, but always an exciting and worthwhile Stadium Journey.

Photos by Marc Heiden, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Ryan Field 1501 Central St Evanston, IL 60201 Northwestern Wildcats website Ryan Field website Year Opened: 1926 Capacity: 49,256 Northwestern Football at Ryan Field Built in 1926, Northwestern University’s Ryan Field is the oldest football stadium in the Chicago area that does not have a flying saucer on top of it. A 1996 renovation added a few upgrades, but the look and feel are largely unchanged from the early days of college football – falling somewhere between historic and decrepit in terms of character. Northwestern was a founding member of the Big Ten in 1896, and when the University of Chicago dropped its football program in 1939, Northwestern became the Chicago area’s only Big Ten team – a title it currently lords over the University of Illinois. Though generally successful in the early years, the football program fell into a steep decline in the postwar era. Between 1949 and 1994, the Wildcats earned no bowl appearances and only a handful of winning seasons; during a particularly bad stretch in the late 1970s, they eked out a total of three victories over six years. Then a surprise turnaround in 1995 ended with a conference title and a trip to the Rose Bowl, catching the entire region by surprise. Despite being the smallest program in the Big Ten, the Wildcats have mostly remained competitive since then, with more bowl appearances in the last 15 years than the preceding five decades combined. Food & Beverage 4 The best food is at the south end of the stadium, where a long row of grills awaits. Burgers and hot dogs ($4), brats ($6), and chicken ($7) are better here, as are the tasty desserts (funnel cakes are a favorite, $7/$8). The star attraction is Real Urban Barbecue, with brisket and pulled pork sandwiches ($9), mac ‘n cheese ($4), and variations on the noble tater tot ($5/$9). However, this area is absolutely crushed at halftime – I wouldn’t want to walk through there, let alone fight through a line, so stop here early. A runner up is the open-air grill in the outer concourse on the west side of the stadium, just inside Gate N – still crowded, but nowhere near as bad. In addition to the usual suspects, there’s a black bean veggie burger with chips ($6). The main concession stands are okay (hot dogs $3.50, Polish sausages $4.50, snacks like soft pretzels $4.50) but the quality is a step down from the aforementioned grills. Note that stands in the outer concourse have the same options and shorter lines than ones in the inner concourse. There is decent hot cocoa ($3.50 at stands, $5 from vendors) if you need a quick warm-up. Soda and bottled water are $4, and no alcohol is sold. If you just need some quick food in your stomach, grab a hot dog ($4) from one of the Mustard’s Last Stand carts outside on Central before you head in. Bring cash – a few concession stands accept credit cards, but not all, and if there are any ATMs inside the stadium, they’re not easy to find. Atmosphere 3 This is a refreshingly simple game experience. Some areas feel so close to the game that it’s exhilarating. Views of the field are excellent throughout, with the sole exception of the obstructed view seats at the top of the lower-level west stands. Even the upper deck offers a terrific perspective of the game and a lovely view beyond the stadium, with the white dome of the historic Ba’hai Temple peeking above the tree line. Conversely, this isn’t one of the more intense game experiences around, either. It’s pretty laid back, and the stadium production doesn’t do much to accentuate it. The video screen blends well with its surroundings and the quality is sharp. The camera operator doesn’t always seem to know what to do between plays, but there are some charmingly nerdy videos during breaks in the action. The public address system is kind of ridiculous, relying on one speaker on a pole above the north end zone, though at least it’s audible throughout the seating area. Neighborhood 4 Ryan Field is a 20 to 30 minute walk from Northwestern University’s lakeside campus in Evanston. While lovely in the autumn, there isn’t much to do in the immediate area other than a visit to Mustard’s Last Stand (1613 Central St.), a classic hot dog shack just west of the stadium. The closest bar/restaurant is Bluestone (1932 Central St.), which is nice but not really sports-oriented, and it gets crowded quickly. Downtown Evanston is about 30 minutes away by foot (or three stops on the CTA Purple Line) and full of great places to eat and drink. It’s well worth planning to spend the evening there. Among places to drink, Tommy Nevin’s Pub (1450 Sherman Ave.) is the chief game day bar, Bat 17 (1709 Benson Ave.) has good sandwiches, and Firehouse Grill (750 Chicago Ave.) will keep kids entertained with vintage fire department memorabilia. All three are close to the CTA Purple Line. Lou Malnati’s (1850 Sherman Ave.) will have games on and serves hot, filling deep dish pizza. For cheap eats, Edzo’s Burger Shop (1571 Sherman Ave.) is tops, though there are good noodle and pasta places around too, such as Dave’s Italian Kitchen (1635 Chicago Ave.). Evanston excels in fine dining, notably the Nepalese restaurant Mt. Everest (630 Church St.), live jazz spot Pete Miller’s Seafood & Prime Steak (1557 Sherman Ave.), and the Michelin-recognized Found Kitchen and Social House (1631 Chicago Ave.). Fans 3 Northwestern fans are sometimes outnumbered in their own stadium, especially when the likes of Michigan, Ohio State, or Wisconsin are in town. While it’s not fair to pin that on lack of student enthusiasm – some of their rivals have more than double the enrollment that Northwestern does – it can be hard to get swept up in the emotion of a split crowd, and the visiting fans set the tone as much as the home fans do. Rival fans are most heavily concentrated in the east stands, but they appear to feel welcome throughout the stadium. The only area that’s completely set aside for home fans is the southeast corner, where a tightly packed student section and the student band are situated. The term “Midwestern hospitality” comes to mind as you watch Northwestern fans during the game. It’s not in their nature to try to intimidate or shout over opposing fans – the rules of good hospitality dictate that visitors be made to feel welcome, be allowed to chant and yell as they please, etc. But Northwestern fans are capable of making plenty of noise when it’s called for, and they take their colors seriously – there’s a lot of royal purple and black in the crowd. They tend to be realistic about their team’s prospects and appreciate when visitors show an interest. Access 4 The CTA Purple Line and Metra Union Pacific North Line have stations on Central Ave. in Evanston, a short walk east and west (respectively) of the stadium. Fans can transfer to the CTA Red Line at Howard for connections to Chicago, and the Union Pacific-North line runs between downtown Chicago and Kenosha, Wisconsin. On game days, the PACE suburban bus system runs a Ryan Field Express from the Northwest Transportation Center in Schaumburg. Getting to the stadium on the CTA is easy, but getting away takes some patience. Central is a sleepy little station near the end of the Purple Line. It does all right before games, but it’s an unholy disaster afterward. Imagine your grandparents trying to make a PowerPoint presentation in a hurry, using information being shouted at them, with a small, greasy tablet computer, at gunpoint; and you should have an impression of how Central and the Purple Line cope with postgame crowds. Much better, if weather permits, to follow the march of fans south toward downtown Evanston – a pleasant half-hour walk – and dine or drink there before heading home. (Both the CTA and Metra have stops in downtown Evanston as well.) The parking lots adjacent to the stadium and the golf course next to the CTA station are open to Northwestern season ticket holders only. Somehow, visiting fans still manage to tailgate in there, presumably with a borrowed pass. If you arrive early, you may be able to find parking on the streets around the stadium, but traps abound – keep a very close eye out for signs with parking restrictions. Leaving after the game will be tough, as narrow Central Ave gets backed up. There are some small pay lots near the intersection of Central & Green Bay Road (usually $20) and pay garages in downtown Evanston with free shuttles to the stadium; the one at Clark & Maple, near the Century Theaters, is probably the biggest and easiest to find. Alternately, there are free lots on campus, primarily along Sheridan Road, southeast of the stadium. Tailgating is welcome in the campus lots, and there are free shuttles. If you’re walking from one of the remote lots, you’ll see students offering pedicab rides. Figure about $5 from the CTA station or $10 from one of the closer campus lots. Inside the stadium, the small and grimy restrooms show the stadium’s age. There are pockets of port-a-potties in a few corners of the stadium to help deal with the crowds. The upper-level restrooms are a lot less crowded. There is seating for disabled fans in the east and west stands and elevators in the west stands (it’s a very long walk to the upper deck). The corridors of the stadium are narrow and difficult to traverse, so plan your entrance gate in advance, and definitely do not try to traverse the south end zone food court. Disabled parking for single games on the west side of the stadium is first come, first served. Return on Investment 3 On average, tickets range from $35 in the end zones to $50 for reserved seats in the east or west stands. All but the back rows of the west stands provide great views of the field. I’d avoid the south end zone, which is crowded and seems to attract most annoying fans. The upper deck is a good value as long as you don’t mind the long walk up there. Extras 3 One bonus point for the student band. Northwestern may have the smallest enrollment of any school in their conference, but the size and quality of the band would do any of their rivals proud, even if some of the halftime themes (“A Tribute to Disney Musicals”) aren’t really designed to pump up the crowd. A second bonus point for purple harmony. Northwestern seems to have convinced most of the sponsors to allow their ads to be rendered in purple and white, avoiding the usual clash between corporate logos and everything else. It’s all about the purple and white and black at Ryan Field. On the whole, the game production is pitched to the character of their fans. Playing a lolcat video during a break in the action seemed to epitomize that – Northwestern fans are a smart, fun-loving bunch but they aren’t screaming meatheads and the stadium isn’t trying to coerce them into it. Another bonus point for beautiful Evanston and the historic character of the stadium. It’s well behind the times in some respects (and simply outdated in others), but Ryan Field wears its history with a quiet, understated charm. It’s not hard at all to imagine classic college football of the 1930s, 40s, and 50s being played here. And even if the game is unmemorable, Evanston is a great place to spend the day. Final Thoughts Ryan Field doesn’t have a lot to offer beyond great views of the field and a friendly, hospitable atmosphere, but that’s enough for a pleasant day of college football.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Piney Orchard Ice Arena 8781 Piney Orchard Parkway Odenton, MD 21113 Maryland Black Bears website Piney Orchard Ice Arena website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 500 Bear with the Bears The Maryland Black Bears play in the North American Hockey League, in Tier II of the junior hockey system in the United States. The Black Bears play their home games at Piney Orchard Ice Arena, a 500-seat municipal ice rink located in Odenton. Although the building also includes several other rinks which are open to the public when games are not going on, the Black Bears always play on Rink One, the main arena. Food & Beverage 4 There is one concession stand to the right of the main entrance which has a varied selection. The best option is buffalo wings from local vendor The Great Butcher, which are six for $8 and also include free fries. Other meal options include cheesesteak for $9, hot dogs for $5 (add $1 each for chili and cheese), cheese pizza slices ($3.50), mozzarella sticks ($7), and bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches ($6.) Snack options include fries ($4, or $6 with cheese), candy ($2), Pringles ($4), and funnel cake ($7.) Drinks include soda ($2.50 for a small or $3.50 for a large), bottled water ($1.50), Red Bull ($3.50), coffee ($2), and Gatorade ($2.50). Alcohol is sold at the stand, with beer ranging from $4-$5 and wine also costing $5. Although the prices are a bit high for this level, the selection is impressive. Atmosphere 5 Black Bears games have an amazing atmosphere from before they start right through until they end. Pregame introductions involve fancy spotlight shows and players running through a title of youth players. One of the more unique traditions in junior hockey is the fish toss. After the Black Bears score their first goal, fans throw rubber fish onto the ice through a large opening in the net. These fish are free each game to season ticketholders and sold for $1 each to everyone else. After everyone throws the fish, the team’s mascot, a black bear named Bruno, will skate onto the ice and scoop them up in a net. The team keeps the fans engaged in other ways as well such as music during timeouts and a “Get Up and Dance Media Timeout” which the fans really seem to enjoy. Although it’s not an actual dance cam due to the lack of video board, it’s just as fun without one. As for the arena itself, all seats are uncomfortable concrete risers with no backs that can be painful to sit in by the end of the night. There is one scoreboard in the stadium which shows only basic information such as score, time, and any active penalties. Neighborhood 2 Piney Orchard Ice Arena is located right next to the actual Piney Orchard. While the nature preserve there is scenic and can be fun for a family day out, that’s about the only thing in the immediate vicinity of the arena. If you’re looking for something other than nature trails and duck ponds or want to do something at night it’s closed to the public, you will need to head up Piney Orchard Parkway to Annapolis Road. There are a number of restaurants there ranging from high end steakhouses to sports bars to Italian eateries. However, this will involve driving several miles just to get there. Fans 5 Black Bears games usually sell out or come close and the fans are extremely loud and passionate. Many of them are season ticket holders and go to most or all of the games, but you also get some fans who are checking out the team for the first time. Between the large crowds and the small rink, it can get surprisingly loud here at times. Although the Black Bears rank towards the bottom of the NAHL in attendance, that is misleading because they have one of the smallest arenas in the league. They simply can’t get the thousands of fans a night that some teams get because the arena holds only a fraction of that. Access 2 Depending on where you’re coming from, you will need to take either the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, Interstate 97, or U.S. Route 50. Regardless of how you get here, you will need to do several miles of driving on local roads. Once you get there, the lot next to the arena is pretty small. Although you may have a hard time parking if you wait until right before the game to arrive, in an interesting twist, you may also have a hard time parking if you arrive before doors open in an attempt to give yourself enough time. This is because this is a municipal rink, and there is often a public session, youth hockey practice, or other event before the Black Bears take the ice. If that hasn’t cleared out yet, you may still have a difficult time parking despite allotting plenty of time. There is a set of restrooms located under the bleachers, but getting around that narrow passageway can be difficult if it gets crowded. The area near the entrance that includes the concession stand, team store, several tables, and the stairs to the bleachers can also get congested and make walking around difficult. Although the lines at concession stands can get long during intermissions, they move quickly. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at just $9 for sideline tickets on the side the Black Bears defend twice. On the attacking side, tickets go up to $12, while tickets at center ice are just $15. There is a $2 discount for military members. Parking is free, and while concessions are somewhat pricey, the value elsewhere makes up for it. Extras 3 One star for the fish toss, one of the more unique traditions in sports. A second for the free roster sheets available at the entrance on the front table. A third and final star for the Black Bears’ loyal group of fans who crowd the rink every night. Final Thoughts There are many instances of a low-level sporting venue being too big for the crowd it holds. Piney Orchard Ice Arena is the rare instance (at this level) of a venue being too small for the crowds. Although the atmosphere at a Black Bears game is impressive as is, and a visit is definitely worthwhile, it would be even better if they could pack a couple thousand fans in here rather than just a few hundred. They’re definitely capable of drawing those crowds, they just don’t have any place to put them.

The Lexington Legends announced they will join the Atlantic League for the 2021 season. The Legends had been members of the South Atlantic League since its inception in 2001 but will now become an independent team in the new loop. The majority of its clubs are located on the east coast from Long Island to Gastonia, North Carolina. Whitaker Bank Ballpark will be the most western ballpark, located 379 miles from its closest rival; however, this isn’t the first time baseball in Lexington was situated furthest away from its nearest competitor. In 1954 the Lexington Colts played barely a half a season in the Mountain States League before suspending operations on July 6. The hastily put-together ball club was the city’s first in 31 years, and it would be over 50 years before another minor league team would call Kentucky city home.  Things looked fine when the ball club hosted its first game on April 24 against Kingsport. The ceremonial crowd brought out former Baseball Commissioner Happy Chandler and the Colts pounded out a 14-2 victory in front of 1,200 fans at League Park. The victory was welcoming since the team had only four days to practice and get to know each other for manager Zeke Bonura.  The league only awarded Lexington a club on April 7, just 17 days before their home opener, to replace the Hazard Bombers, who were unable to field a club for the season. MSL league president Virgil Q. Wacks was enthusiastic about placing a team in the Bluegrass Capital.  Wacks even came to town in hopes of meeting with anyone who would operate a franchise in the then-8-team league. Things moved swiftly with negotiations on who would operate the club, and improvements were made to the Blue Grass Athletic Park home of the Lexington Hustlers, a Negro League baseball of the past nine seasons. The Lexington Ball Club received assistance with finding players and a manager, selling tickets, and daily operations from the league and Chandler. Fans were encouraged to name the team, with the winner receiving two season tickets and ten wrestling tickets at what was now called League Park. The runner-up would win a book of 25 tickets.  The club’s GM, Michael Tice opened up downtown offices in the Northern Bank building. The Lexington Herald sports editor, Ed Ashford, would be the team president, and former Chicago White Sox player Zeke Bonura was picked as the manager of the unnamed ball club. Ashford announced that there would be a limited number of shares of common stock offered to the public at $25 a share.  A Lexington Colts Stockholder, File Photo, Lexington Herald “The more small stockholders we have, the more fans will have. The more fans we have, the better team will have, because we’ll have more money to spend in acquiring good players in improving the ballpark,” stated Ashford in the Lexington Herald in the April 17, 1954 edition. Tickets would go on sale a week before the first game at various locations in the city and surrounding towns. Fans wishing to purchase a book of 25 tickets, would only need to shell out $20. The price would fetch $1 for adults and 50 cents for children at the gate. The team opened the season at Kingsport and did not officially have a name, the local paper joked that it should be called the “Fleas” because of the early requirements of their schedule and its hastily thrown-together squad. The ball club would make the 500 miles round trip from Lexington only to be rained-out; they would have to turn around and open the season at home the next day at 3 pm. The team would be christened the Colts during its home opener. The name was favored by 24 people who remembered the previous professional club of the same name in the Blue Grass League from 1923. The only other moniker that received as many votes was Throurobreads or Thorobreds. The other choices had racehorse themes and included the Yearlings, Racers, Ponies, Whirlaways, Fillies, Stake Horses, Turfs, Stallions, Pacers, Trotters, Man o’ War, Jockeys, and Thoroughbred Flyers. “It has a tradition of many years, as the last professional team, a successful aggregation in the Old Blue Grass League,” said Len Tracey, who was one of the citizens who picked the name. “Its five letters are admirably adapted to newspaper headlines. There are few if any other teams in the nation that beer the same nickname.”  Lexington was the most northern club and 131 miles from its closest rival in Middlesboro. It was further away from Newport (218 miles) and Kingsport (250 miles) one way. One could only imagine the bus rides on pre-interstate roads.  Lexington Home Opener Newspaper Ad, File Photo, Lexington Herald If Lexington’s distance from the rest of the league members wasn’t enough of an inconvenience, the schedule was quickly thrown into chaos when the Newport Canners dropped before the season when directors failed to raise enough money to begin operations. The league went ahead with a 7-team schedule playing day-to-day, rarely knowing more than a day or two in advance where they were playing next. League president Wacks would then spend the next week looking for an eighth club to even out the MSL. The Hazard Development Association drew up a plan to enter the league. La Follette was also considered an option to fill the spot and offered two local ballparks until a proper facility would be available. Finally, the city of Lynch, Kentucky, was hoping to operate its new $30 million stadium that needed a little more seating. However, Hazard returned on April 29 but quickly dropped out 6-days later without playing a game. Just like with Newport, it was due to the financial difficulties of putting a team together in such a short time. The league was down to 7-teams once again, and the Morristown Red Sox would be the next organization to dissolve. The Sox management was unhappy with having to sit idle for as many four days because of the uneven schedule on May 17. A week later the league finally released an updated season schedule for the remaining teams. Back in Lexington, unpleasant weather canceled games or left fans bundled up at League Park watching the Colts start with an 8-11 record. The postponement was a large financial loss for the club which had to cover all operating costs. The team moved on, having specialty nights like Little League, Gift Night Ladies Night. The rainouts did allow for Satchel Paige to make an appearance with the Globetrotters baseball team playing the House of David as part of a doubleheader. Colts manager Bonura knew things would be hard and liked Lexington as a baseball town. However, little things did surprise him during his time in town. He told of a story of one of his players hailing a cab to the ballpark. The cabbie said, “there ain’t no ballpark in this town.” They then drove to the nearest gas station and were unaware of the ballpark.  However, there was a time when the club failed to report to an away game in Kingsport for financial reasons on the charter bus. The Kingsport fans, aware of the situation, passed the hat around at the ballpark to net an impressive $118 that supplied the team with two meals while in town. The gesture was taken very kindly by management in Lexington, who was unaware of the act of kindness. Things were going pretty smoothly, despite the financial difficulties with many of its members. The Colts were playing .500 ball and made a move for first place in the league. The Maryville-Alcoa Red Sox announced that they would not continue unless $8,000 was raised to pay off debt. Attendance improved slightly at the ballpark, but the club switched to Morristown. It returned the next day after securing the $8,000 objective. However, they moved once again to Morristown six days later, this time for good, and renamed the Reds. Sam Bray, president of the Kingsport Cherokees, jokingly offered his team bus, all of its equipment, the franchise, plus an additional $3,000 for any responsible person who would agree to continue its operations throughout the season. Thinking that no sound person would take him off on his offer, the stunt resulted in positive PR throughout multiple media outlets and increased attendance figures at his ballpark. Lexington player getting the field ready before the game, File Photo, Lexington Herald Back in Lexington, management decided not to enforce blackouts of Cincinnati Redlegs games on home television sets. A total of 35-40 Reds games conflicted with Colts games and organized baseball agreements allowed the Lexington club to block any, if all games. The Colts opted not to interfere with the broadcasts in order not to give ill will to its fan base. Scores and updates were provided to fans at the ballpark during games. The Morristown saga concluded on July 1 when it withdrew from the league without notice, not for financial reasons, but because the owner “didn’t have time to give to it. This left the MSL with an uneven five clubs. The writing was on the wall, and the rest of the loop’s members did not hide the fact who they wanted out of the league. It was at this time that presidents of the other teams met in Middlesboro and said, “We’re sorry, but Lexington has to go.” The Colts were teetering on the brink of elimination due to poor attendance and burning through its operating budget. Wacks had indicated that $6,000 would get a team through the year before the start of the campaign. The Colts were a long bus ride from the other Tennessee and southern Kentucky teams; it only made sense to continue the season without them. However, other clubs were facing financial difficulties including the Oak Ridge Pioneers whose owner Ross Charles stated that $10,000 was needed by July 4 to continue operations, and the Harlan Smokies who almost exited the loop before additional support was provided to continue operations. Colts president Ashford indicated that when Morristown folded his club would more than likely leave the league and operate by other means than to continue once again in an odd-numbered league. “Even in this event, however, the Colts will not be disbanded. We will continue to play exhibition games with Semi-Pro teams in the area, both at home and on the road, for the next two months, retaining only those Players whose contracts are owned by us. The players who are with us an option will be returned to the teams that hold their contracts.”  The Colts’ last few days in minor league baseball were during the July 4th weekend that did not have them scheduled against any league opponent. Instead, they played a two-game series against the always-game Hustlers, dropping the first game 7-0 before winning the final 6-5.  On July 6, a nicely written telegram stated that they were no longer in the league. It was the custom at the time to let the last team in the league fold first. The Colts would dissolve at midnight but honored their commitment to play in Kingsport–a 4-hour drive by car on current interstate roads. However, just like the team’s first game, it was rained out. The team finished with a 34-37 record. The league would limp for another two weeks, with Wacks looking for a sixth club to replace Lexington. However, on July 20, Harlan became the fifth team to cease operations that season, and the Mountain States League gave up the ghost the next day. It had hoped to reform for the 1955 season, but it would never operate again as a professional league. The Colts would not continue as an independent ball club, although there appeared to be plenty of opportunities to do that, but enough money had been lost on the season and a few remained in town to continue the year playing semi-pro baseball for other clubs. A total of 43 men suited up for the Colts and only six of them remained on the team from April 25 to July 6.  Bonura spoke at a Rotary Club meeting and believed Lexington to be a great town but would be better placed with closer rivals instead of clubs down in Tennessee to keep travel expenses down. “The club wouldn’t have made any money. You can’t enter the thing with the idea that you have a big money maker. It takes some civic-minded people who want Lexington to have baseball to back the team with the idea that over two or three years, they aren’t going to lose any money, but then they aren’t going to make any either.” Lexington would not host another professional baseball team until 2001, 47 years later. Unlike the 31-year gap between the two versions of the Colts club, many fans barely remembered the Mountain States League version that came in and went from town quicker than a thoroughbred at nearby Keeneland.  It was not too uncommon for other members of the loop who were more than likely losing money and on shaky grounds themselves. Kingsport would join the Appalachian League the following year and after a one-year-hiatus, remain in the league to this day. However, except Lexington, none of the cities represented in the league still operate in a professional or summer-collegiate league at this time. The Legends would play 20 seasons before Major League Baseball announced this past December that it would be part of its revamped minor-league affiliation this season. At this time, the organization is making plans to return this season either in a summer collegiate league or in the independent Frontier League, depending on who you talk with. It is safe to say that baseball will continue in some form in the Blue Grass Capital. As questionable as baseball might appear at this time, it will be nowhere near the entropy that existed for the 90 days in 1954 when Lexington had a minor league baseball team. The quickly assembled franchise suffered from small attendance figures, a loss of money, long traveling days, and playing in a league that was losing clubs left and right.  The Colts were a footnote in history. The Legends have been mainstays. Professional baseball was lost for almost 50 years, that won’t be the case with the current announcement.  ——– Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter  @ballparkhunter  and his  YouTube channel .

Photos by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Harry W. Lawson Ice Arena 1903 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Western Michigan Broncos men’s hockey website Harry W. Lawson Ice Arena website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 3,667 Free Tickets for Students or a New Kitchen for the Coach’s Wife The students who attend Western Michigan University hockey games at Lawson Ice Arena are affectionately known as the “Lawson Lunatics” and visiting teams and their coaches know that they will face an additional challenge due to the Lunatics. Normally students are allowed free to all games, but with an NCHS sanction three-game series, head coach Andy Murray recently announced that he would buy all the student tickets for game two , allowing the Lunatics to enter the game, provided they bought a ticket for game one. Murray added that his wife kind of wanted a new kitchen, but he would rather invest it in the Lunatics. There has not been a lot that has changed at Lawson in recent years, but that’s arguably a good thing. The 3,667-seat capacity ice arena opened in 1974, adjacent is the Gabel Natatorium which is home to the university’s swimming team that is also shared with the Kalamazoo community. The arena was named after Harry W. Lawson, a professor at Western Michigan who organized and founded the club hockey team in 1956, which eventually became the school’s varsity team. The arena itself has gone through a series of renovations in 1993, 1997, 1998, 2006, 2013, and 2016. The latest renovations included new boards and glass, a new ice making system, and an overhaul of the ventilation system that has allowed the arena to become LEEDS (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. Lawson is the oldest and second smallest arena in its conference, but the general atmosphere is exciting and all the fans are into the game. Some of those exciting years include six appearances in the NCAA Tournament and two conference championships. Food & Beverage 3 The main concession stands in the exterior concourse near the main entrance offer standard fare such as $4 hot dogs, $5 Italian sausages, $6 cheeseburgers, $7 barbecue chicken sandwiches, and traditional sides. The arena offers Pepsi products for $2 or $4 and $3 Water Street coffee. The small “NUTS 4 NUTS” stand sells almonds and cashews. Atmosphere 4 It is amazing what a 20-member student pep band and a few hundred Lawson Lunatics can bring to the arena. They are clever, inventive, and a slightly naughty group of students who cheer and make the atmosphere fun and lively. A well-sized concourse surrounds most of the ice and fans can enjoy the action anywhere in the house. Plastic seats with backs are located behind one goal and traditional bleacher seats with backs fill the remaining seating options. The legroom is a little tight and there are no cup holders. There are great sight lines for fans who like to be on top of the action, but be aware that overhead netting can affect viewing from the higher rows. A four-sided scoreboard located over the center ice gives fans statistical information and the clock. There are also video screens located in three of the four corners that provide great replays. The history of WMU hockey is depicted with NHL hockey jerseys of players who started at Lawson and were later drafted. There are banners displayed overhead reflecting league champions and NCAA appearances. Neighborhood 4 Lawson Arena is just west of the WMU main campus with many restaurants, breweries, and bars nearby. The cities of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids appear to be battling each other for the title “Craft Beer Capital of Michigan.” Local options include One Well Brewing, Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, Final Gravity, Latitude 42, and Arcadia Brewing. Nearby University Roadhouse and Bruno’s Pizza are good choices, while Ray Ray’s Italian Beef and Sausage on Miller Road offers great food at low prices. The Old Goat Tavern has inventive burgers and draft beer choices. A newly remodeled Delta Hotel by Marriott is west of campus on US 131. The downtown area offers several well-rated Bed and Breakfast choices and there are other lodging alternatives on major highways surrounding the city. Fans 4 Overall, it seems that the WMU hockey fans are into the game and are invested in the product on the ice. There is a good mix of alumni, families, students, and hockey fans that make the event a lot of fun. Interestingly, there are more WMU students attending hockey games than men’s basketball. The average attendance for much of the current 2018-19 season is 3,167 fans per game. Music is played throughout the game, but most likely due to acoustics, it is hard to hear the PA announcer. A gentleman named Bill Saunders is in charge of one of the penalty boxes; as he walks across the ice, the Lunatics greet him with a chant of “Sexy Senior.” Access 4 At Stadium Journey, we like the word “free,” as in free parking and free programs. This is the case at the Lawson Arena for hockey games. Multiple parking lots are within reasonable walking distance and physically challenged fans are well accommodated with parking and seating. Restrooms and concessions are crowded between periods, it is advised to leave a few seconds early to beat the rush. Return on Investment 4 Bench and chair back seats go for $23, while Family Zone tickets behind both goals are $15. Concession prices are very reasonable, and when you include free parking and a free program, the ROI is very fair on anyone’s budget. Extras 4 A point is awarded to the WMU Pep Band – they are a lot of fun to listen to and watch. Another point goes to the Lawson Lunatics and their creative cheers supporting their team and deriding the opponents. A third point for the respect for team history around the arena is lots of individual photos along with the jerseys and banners. The fourth point is for the friendly, courteous staff that’s always ready to help fans with any questions. Final Thoughts Whether you are a devoted hockey fan or a sports fan curious to know what college hockey is like, you will have a good time at Lawson Arena. For fans visiting Kalamazoo for the first time, you will find lots to do and see.

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

Lumped in with the plethora of retro classic ballparks that now dot Major League Baseball, Comerica Park in Detroit, home of the Tigers, seems to get lost in the shuffle. Is it just another of the new cookie cutter parks, or does it stand out amongst the crowd? Grab a beer and join Paul and Dave to discuss another great baseball Stadium Journey on the latest episode of Obstructed Views. You can find Stadium Journey's review of Comerica Park and the Detroit Tigers game day experience here.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 AAMI Park Olympic Boulevard Melbourne, VIC 3001 Australia Melbourne City FC website AAMI Park website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 30,050 Unrivalled A-League Fan Experience in Melbourne City Melbourne’s 30,000-seat AAMI Park (or Melbourne Rectangular Stadium for FIFA purposes) is one of Melbourne’s premier sporting stadiums and plays host to rugby union (Super Rugby’s Melbourne Rebel’s), rugby league (The NRL’s Melbourne Storm) and the A-League football team Melbourne City. The outdoor sports stadium, which is owned by the Victorian Government and located about 1km to the east of the Central Business District, was built in 2010 and has five tenants across three sports. The stadium has hosted Asian Cup football matches as well as Four Nations rugby league games. The venue will also host matches during the upcoming 2017 rugby league world cup. AAMI Park has also played host to gigs from notable bands like the Foo Fighters and Taylor Swift. The $270 million stadium design features an interesting “Bioframe” design, with a geodesic dome roof that covers most of the seats while also still allowing light through to the field. The northern and southern sides of the stadium are called the Olympic Side and Yarra Side, while the exterior of the stadium is covered in thousands of LED lights which can be programmed to display a variety of patterns and images to highlight the home team for that respective game. Furthermore, the stadium won the award for the most iconic and culturally significant stadium at the 2012 World Stadium Awards. While the name Melbourne City Football Club might be relatively new to Australia’s premier football competition, the Hyundai A-League, the professional team certainly is not. The club was founded in 2009 as the Melbourne Heart and played under that name from its inaugural 2010 – 11 season until it was acquired and subsequently rebranded in mid-2014 by the City Football Group who hold full ownership of the club. Food & Beverage 3 AAMI Park offers an array of typical sports stadium grub with a few interesting additions that add to the appetite of fans and delivers a better food fan experience than some other stadiums. The stadium food on offer is the general type of bain-marie food items that one would see at a major stadium with items on offer such as the usual easily cooked hot dogs, meat pies, chips, chicken strips and chips, burgers, fish and chips, and more of the usual fare. There are some healthier options such as sandwiches and wraps however in terms of dietary requirements, there is no gluten free or vegan food to be found, which is interesting given the way other stadiums are moving in this direction. One thing that is good to see from a fan experience perspective is that there is also a German-inspired sausage stand selling big gourmet sausages in crusty bread rolls. This stand has large lines as people obviously find this an enticing food option. AAMI Park offers a restaurant located on the external concourse of the stadium called The Bench, which is a place where fans can meet for a drink and a meal prior to the match. The Bench is open 2.5 hours before kick-off and offers gourmet pub food like BBQ ribs, mushroom burgers, chicken parmigiana, and pizzas. Staff are attentive and polite with positive attitudes and while there are long lines at the food stands these move fast. Outside the stadium, local clubs are allowed to sell items to raise money for their clubs with members from Melbourne team Bentleigh Greens selling an array of sweet and savoury nuts that fans grab by the bag full as a quick pregame snack. The drinks that are available inside the stadium are again typical of a major stadium beverage contract and include the standard Coca-Cola varieties along with water, juice, and iced tea. Alcoholic drinks are limited to mid-strength including Carlton-Mid and Hahn Light beer. Spirits such as Jack Daniels as well as Bulmer’s cider are also available, which is good to see as many stadiums don’t actually do cider. Responsible service of alcohol rules prevent full strength drinks and punters from purchasing more than four beers or two spirits in one visit to the bar which is fairly standard across Australia’s stadiums. One thing that is annoying here is seeing 30 odd sad pre-poured beers lined up at half time with no head on them. In an obvious attempt to move the beer lines faster, this is a disturbing standard practice for public stadium bars but it’s one that many fans have great frustration with as fans really want an ice cold freshly poured beer as well as one without small bugs on the head as was seen here, due to not washing the taps out properly. During my recent visit, the venue did however replace this beer and were happy to do so saying that it does happen from time to time. While there is no genuine craft beer here, the other issue with both the light beer and spirits is that they are poured from cans into plastic cups (no glass or cans inside stadium for safety issues), meaning that the drinks lose some of their chill when poured and from a staffing perspective seems like a lot more work. However they compensate for this by having an ice bucket to use to add ice to your spirits. The ice bucket was filled when I bought drinks on two occasions, but at halftime it was empty and staff were too busy to refill it. Water is available inside the stadium to fill up bottles up, which in summer is very beneficial for fans. Overall, you’ll find a selection of typical stadium food and drinks with a few interesting additions that provide some extra incentive to take a punt and enjoy some stadium grub here. Perfect for a day at the footy! Atmosphere 4 The walk to the stadium is peppered with lively bars and cafes as fans sing songs and march to the ground before games. Fans here are vocal and passionate both outside the ground and inside as well, and one can feel the anticipation building prior to the match. The all-seated intimate stadium is a rectangular football stadium, which has a unique ‘bioframe’ design featuring 30,000 seats. While there are no cup holders or padded seats, the stadium does offer an exceptional viewing experience for fans regardless of where they sit. Seats are ample in size and offer good pitch and rake as well as sight lines to be able to see all of the action on the field. The seats make you feel close to the finely prepared grass while two TV scoreboards provide data insights, highlights and replays for fans that adds to the fan experience. The stadium’s unique lighting design means that teams can have their colours represented on the roof throughout the match, which is a good thing seeing as multiple tenants use this space. The first impressions of the fan engagement activations is one of pure class. The Melbourne City ‘City-Square’ fan zone is an outstanding set up that includes skill drill tests for young fans, gourmet food trucks, EA Sport FIFA gaming stations, penalty shoot-outs, membership support, merchandise tents, competitions, giveaways, raffles and other events. The fan zone is inside an area known as Gosch’s Paddock that includes a number of grassy fields where kids can kick footballs with their friends or family. Inside the stadium the fan engagement continues with fans being allowed to play FIFA16 against one another on the big screens, which entertains fans in the stands and those lining up to buy food and drink. City fans are loud and entertaining as they sing songs, chant war cries and offer funny banter with the rival team. There is a constant vocal noise typical of a lively football match throughout the game, which really adds to the night’s atmosphere. Seating options are plentiful and all offer a good view of the field. The two ends are cheaper than the east and west stands, which offer corporate seating and a centre view of the field, making it possibly a slightly better view to take in the whole ground. Most of the stadium offers cover from the elements, however the first few rows of each stand would potentially become wet regardless of the roof protection during heavy rains. The stadium offers general admission, although many games are also reserved seating due to members seating and for bigger matches or sold out events. While away fans are positioned into one far end corner of the stadium this is more so they can all be with their fellow supporters as generally for football matches here, fans can sit alongside fans of the opposing team without any aggression. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is set in the heart of Melbourne with the Central Business District only a short walk away with ample transport and well lit walking paths making it very accessible. The Richmond area is surrounded by a bustling nightlife featuring award winning restaurants, tasty pub menus, craft beer bars, and supermarkets. Fans can take advantage of the local shopping and sightseeing around this area before a game while also stopping in at various bars pregame where fans of all teams are welcomed, albeit with a bit of cheeky banter. The area to and from the stadium, either from Richmond or Jolimont train station or from walking via the city is very safe and secure, not least due to the large amount of people riding bikes or walking on the foot paths to either the stadium or local bars. There are literally hundreds of quality bars and restaurants to try either on the walk to the stadium or in the Richmond area if that’s where you disembark on the train. From modern Australian food like burgers and seafood or chicken and chips, Melbourne is famous for its vegetarian and vegan options as well so buying affordable food and drinks that are also healthy is something which is very easy near the stadium. Melbourne also has a wide selection of craft beer bars and craft beer on tap at pretty much every bar, so if good beer is your thing then you will not be disappointed. A must would be to try Slowbeer in Richmond, as well as Holliava which is quite close to the stadium. In terms of attractions and entertainment, there are a variety of nightclubs and bars in the area which are worth investigating. From rock and roll music venue, The Corner Hotel to the rollicking 9T4 bar, there is a bar for any fan. There are plenty of close hotel options that fans could choose to stay at in the Olympic Park area. However, with the city only a short walk away it would be wise to find a hotel in the CBD and take the short tram or train ride or walk to and from the stadium. Melbourne offers an abundance of premium to backpacker style accommodation listings making it easy to find a place to stay. One hotel that is both affordable and close to the stadium is the Pullman Melbourne on the Park. Fans 4 The AAMI Park stadium is home to some of the most passionate fans in Australia with the relatively new Melbourne City FC fans being a vocal force that channel the traditions and history of the former team, Melbourne Heart, along with the club’s ties to Manchester City FC in England. Melbourne City fans are positive, passionate, happy, and respectful fans who are well behaved and offer a good family friendly vibe to home games here. Fans are loyal and supportive of both their team and the opposing team, and are youthful in terms of membership. It’s obvious that Melbourne City fans love their club, with huge turnout for the City Square fan zone where families and fans of both teams, but more predominantly City fans, are engaging with team reps and mascots before the game starts. Average attendances for Melbourne City A-League games hovers around 10,000-15,000 per game with bigger matches against the likes of Melbourne Victory or Sydney FC drawing even bigger crowds. The team offers a type of flair and attractive football that is not seen frequently in the A-League. The crowd is loud and excitable here and throughout the match the noise is a constant with war cries and singing ringing throughout the stadium’s terraces. City fans wave team flags and their colours throughout the entire match and are entertaining in their banter with fellow fans. Access 5 The venue is well equipped for people with special needs as the accessibility in Melbourne from the transport, pathways to the ground and the stadium itself with lifts and disabled seating is world class. Once inside the stadium, it is very easy to walk around as there is ample space to move about and find your seats, toilets, food and drink, or exits. Toilets and snack bars are plentiful with the best time to visit each of these just before half time. Exiting the stadium is a breeze and can be done in only a few minutes. However, traffic builds up quickly on Punt Road and on Olympic Boulevard meaning that grabbing a taxi or getting your car out can be troublesome. Walking is by far the best option and can be done easily back to the city by following the majority of the crowd who are also walking back there meaning that this is a safe, healthy, and fast way to get back into the city to catch a train or tram home from there. Transport runs until about 1am in Melbourne with the trams running even later for night routes. Most transport is very cheap at around $4 per ride, but you do need to have a MYKI transport card which can be picked up at most 7/11’s or newsagents in the city or suburbs. Ubers to and from the city cost about $10 or less provided there is no traffic, while a taxi would be around $16-$20. Public transport is incredibly easy to use and ride to the game here. A Melbourne transport card (MYKI) costs $6 and can get fans to the game in about 5-10 mins from the city either by trams or suburban trains. Two train stations (Richmond and Flagstaff) serve the stadium area and run well before and after the final whistle. Parking is available in the Melbourne Olympic Parks precinct for under $30 per car. However, you can also drive and park for free in local streets where the time limits are 2 or 3 hours. Just be careful regarding what the signs state. Fans can park in the Richmond area, which is only a 10-15 minute walk to the stadium. There are signs here warning of 2-3 hour parking and permit only zones for local residents. Whatever you do, do not park in a driveway or in a tow away or loading zone as the parking inspectors will get you! Paid parking is an option and starts at $3 per hour, which is quite affordable for a match day. Avoid on street parking along Olympic Boulevard and Bridge Road as when the stadium empties, all the fans walk along these roads meaning that your car is less safe as thousands of people walk between cars increasing the chance of accidental damage. The stadium’s gates all offer easy access into the ground, but most fans will enter via the Olympic Boulevard end as this is where the majority of the ticket booths are located. There are different security checks that range from metal detector wands to pat downs and bag searches depending on the match. The venue accepts ticketless QR code ticketing as well as standard stadium tickets each of which is scanned upon entry. Fans are advised to arrive early as ticket collection and entry into the stadium can get busy before play starts. Concourse traffic is generally busy right before the match starts or at half time, but due to the size of the venue, it’s quite easy to walk around the whole stadium with ease. The main concourse does not have a view of the pitch, except on the third level east and west stand, but fans will be advised to move on as these areas are walkways and for people in wheelchair spaces. The toilets, bars, and food areas are all very well maintained and cleaned throughout the event, so the venue itself is one which is very clean and tidy. Return on Investment 4 A match at AAMI Park is worth the time and effort, as this is a world class venue that offers an intimate setting for watching live sport. From exceptional fan engagement, superb pitch and comfy seats to inexpensive tickets, unique food items and easy transportation, this is a venue worth watching a match at. Ticket prices are around the $20-$30 mark for the cheapest seats and range up to $60-$80 for the halfway line seats. Corporate functions and all inclusive seats are more expensive. Melbourne City offer various ticket promotions for members and fans including ticket discounts on match days to members. Fans are encouraged to sign up to City-Zen which is the global fan site of the City group where fans can gain exclusive discounts, giveaways, and prizes. Extras 4 The free match day programs and scarves for fans were an unexpected present that fans were delighted to on match day during a recent visit. Parking and transport near the stadium is easy, food and drink is fresh and healthy, and the fan engagement is world class. Ticketing is a breeze as is the purple red sunset that falls over the stadium in summer for twilight games. Final Thoughts A Melbourne City A-League game at AAMI Park is an outstanding fan experience that offers fans a variety of best practice fan activities, tasty food and drinks, vocal atmosphere, and entertaining football. This is a must do sporting event in Melbourne!

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Finneran Pavilion FANFARE Score: 4.43 Finneran Pavilion 113 N Ithan Ave Villanova, PA 19085 Villanova Wildcats website Finneran Pavilion website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 6,500 A Renovated Classic in Philly In 1985, under the direction of coach Rollie Massimino, the men's basketball team won the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament in the first year of the 64-team field. The final game, against defending champion and ten points favorite Georgetown, is often cited among the greatest upsets in college basketball history. The Wildcats won its second national championship in dramatic fashion again in 2016 when Kris Jenkins sank a buzzer-beater to defeat North Carolina 77-74. It was another incredible victory in the championship game of the Final Four and brought sought out championship back to Philadelphia. It was no surpise that the team would win another championship not too long after. One year after that first dramatic NCAA victory, the Pavilion was opened. The Pavilion arena was originally called the John Eleuthere du Pont Pavilion. When that namesake was convicted of the murder of Olympic wrestling gold medalist Dave Schultz the current name came into usage. Du Pont is the subject of the 2014 film Foxcatcher, in which he is portrayed by Steve Carell and Dave Schultz by Mark Ruffalo. Channing Tatum is also in the movie as Schultz’s brother Mark. The Pavilion replaced the Villanova Field House as home to Villanova basketball. That building still exists just next door and has since been renamed the Jake Nevin Field House. The Pavilion was closed between 2017-2018 for a major remodel. In 2018 the newly remodeled and renamed Finneran Pavilion open again. The Wildcats had been part of the Big East since 1980. DePaul University, Georgetown University, Marquette University, Providence College, Seton Hall University, St. John's University, and Villanova University chose to split from the football playing schools in order to focus on basketball. In 2013 these schools retained the existing Big East Conference name, logos, and men's basketball tournament site while adding Butler University, Creighton University, and Xavier University. The football-playing members of the old Big East formed the American Athletic Conference. Much of the pre-2013 history is shared between the two conferences. Villanova University is a private university located northwest of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The school is named after Saint Thomas of Villanova and is the oldest Catholic university in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as it was founded in 1842. It is part of the Order of Saint Augustine within the Catholic church. Food & Beverage 4 There are some very good food options at Villanova games. There are a few concession stands around the arena but there are also a few located at the new entrance to the arena. The options range from the regular arena standards to more creative tacos and other craft items. Atmosphere 5 Not all Villanova games are held here at the Pavilion. They move a few Big East games a season to the Wells Fargo Center in downtown Philadelphia. That is a bit of a shame as the sound and atmosphere here are pretty fun. The on-campus arena just does not hold enough people for the biggest of games, even after remodeling. There is only so much space to go along. Finneran Pavilion is a very strange building. The ceiling itself is unique with its hyperbolic paraboloid roof providing some unique angles. The seating concourses are split between four direction-based stands. The remodel effort took the best of the quirky facility and added more modern amenities and offerings. That along with the new, better main entrance has taken a very cool facility and made it into one of college basketball's best. There are cheerleaders, a good pep band, and mascot. All the usual college atmospherics is in place here. And the crowd can get quite loud. The concourses are still small in parts and shockingly way too wide also at parts. It is a fun place to wander around, but it is strange too. Neighborhood 4 Villanova is part of the Main Line in Philadelphia. This area has some of the wealthiest towns in the country, including Lower Merion, Radnor, and Gladwyne. There are many food options in and around the area. Peace a Pizza (4 Station Road, Ardmore, PA) has good pizza by the slice, often with some unusual options. 333 Belrose Bar & Grille (333 Belrose, King Of Prussia, PA) is worth a bit of drive for high-end dining. Kelly's Taproom is the closest within walking distance and has many good food and drink options. Wayne, PA is another popular area to explore before games. Pipeline Tacos and Teresa's Next Door are good options for food and drink respectively. Of course, the city of Philadelphia is close by so many options exist in that large city. May I suggest Philip's Steaks at 2234 West Passyunk Avenue for traditional Philly cheesesteaks? Fans 5 Villanova fans take the game pretty seriously. The student section is pretty lively and the general stands are filled with proud Wildcat fans. All games are essentially sellouts, so the fans attend and do their part pretty well. Access 3 Villanova University is located on Route 30/Lancaster Avenue, not very far from I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway). Route 30 is busy but is usually not a problem to drive on. Parking is plentiful around the stadium, although you may want to plan ahead a bit. There is no parking charge for basketball in general, but that will depend on the lot you choose. Public transportation is close by as you can take a SEPTA train from 30th Street Station in downtown Philadelphia to the on-campus Villanova stop. Check the schedules for night and weekend games. Return on Investment 5 Villanova basketball tickets at The Pavilion are sold out on a season ticket basis. Occasionally, individual tickets are available depending on the opponent. Usually, you'll have to find tickets on the aftermarket. Depending on the opponent the prices will vary dramatically. Because of the arena size, it is no wonder they move some games into the larger venue downtown. If you can score a ticket to Finneran Pavilion it offers a great value, even if it is on the surface fairly high. Extras 5 The roof of the Pavilion and the unique concourse system is worth a trip alone. It can be a bit frustrating to get from one area of the arena to another because of this unique setup. It is also a bit strange to see the seating sections arranged in such a dramatic setup. Right inside the main entrance are many areas that commemorate the Villanova past along with their three national championships. The cool displays and the nice large entrance are worth a few extras by itself. The unique stands are also a great extra. Final Thoughts Finneran Pavilion is one of the most unique looking arenas around. It offers a great place to see some very high-quality basketball in a fun environment. In a world when some basketball arenas are getting larger and more corporate, it is good to know there is a building in Philadelphia that is a true classic hoops hall.

It is the one that started it all ... Oriole Park @ Camden Yards. Dave and Paul take their beer to the legendary, massively influential ballpark to see if it is still as significant now as it was thirty years ago. Grab a beer and join the trip to Baltimore on the latest episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You can read Stadium Journey's review of Oriole Park @ Camden Yards and the Baltimore Orioles game day experience here

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium 400 Oriskany St W Utica, NY 13502 Utica Comets website Adirondack Bank Center website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 5,700 Aud Lang Syne The landscape in the American Hockey League has changed dramatically in recent years. The league, which is the top developmental partner of the National Hockey League, has morphed from a league with most of its teams located in the northeast United States and Canadian Maritimes into a coast-to-coast circuit. In 2015 several of the NHL’s western teams moved their top farm teams out west into more geographically convenient locations, abandoning many long-term, established AHL cities. Bucking this trend over the past few seasons are the Utica Comets. Established in 2013, the Comets are the top farm team of the Vancouver Canucks. Despite being separated by more than 2,900 miles, the Comets have thrived in upstate New York, playing to near-capacity crowds since their arrival in the Mohawk Valley. The Comets play their home game in the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium, known locally as “The Aud.” Completed in 1960, the arena was built using the first pre-stressed dual cable roof system. Food & Beverage 5 You wouldn’t expect a smaller arena like the Aud to have a very expansive concessions menu, but the choices here are many and varied. You can find all your standard arena fare here, including hot dogs, chicken tenders, nachos, and french fries. Coca-Cola products are featured and can be purchased in a refillable souvenir cup priced at seven dollars that can be brought back any time for five dollars. To get a proper taste of Utica, head to the Oriskany Street Grill, where local favorite Zweigle’s hot dogs are served with a variety of toppings. Also served here are Dino’s Sausages, assorted wraps and subs, and walking tacos. Pair one of these sandwiches with some onion rings, waffle fries, or sweet potato fries, and you’ll be set for the night. In addition to the high quality of the food, prices are reasonable. Another popular spot at the Aud is Kookie’s Q stand. Named for longtime Aud volunteer Kevin “Kookie” Dowling, a variety of barbeque items cooked in an on-site smoker are sold here, including pulled pork, pulled chicken, and brisket. Served over macaroni and cheese, nachos, in a bowl, or as a sandwich, Kookie’s is a popular choice among Comets fans. Many brands of beers are sold at the Aud, including Budweiser, Coors, and Labatt’s, but we advise passing on those national brands and heading over to the Utica Club stand, where several varieties of locally brewed Saranac and Adirondack Lager beers are sold. Fans looking for wine or other mixed drinks should head to the One 9 Five 9 stand, where several varieties of local Bully Hill Vineyards and mixed drinks are served. Atmosphere 5 The Aud is packed to the rafters on most nights and the small barn echoes with chants of “UTICA! UTICA! UTICA!” throughout the game. Capacity crowds create a great deal of noise and a significant home-ice advantage night in and night out. Most of the fans come dressed in the Comets’ blue and green colors, and some traditions from the Pacific Northwest have found their way to the Mohawk Valley. A pair of fans mimic the Canucks’ famed green men, and the team’s dance squad, the Comettes, perform and lead cheers during play stoppages. Just be careful when traversing the inner walkway around the dance team. Many a fan has lost their beverage or nachos after bumping into one of these lovely ladies during their routines. If you want to experience a Comets game like a season ticket holder, the team has several unique options to check out. The Horton Room, located behind section 218, is named for former Utica player and coach Bill Horton. This lounge boasts a line-up of top-shelf liquors and Labatt Blue beer and is decorated with Utica hockey memorabilia. Another option is Kilfoil’s Irish Pub. Fans looking for a pint of Guinness can watch the action in an authentically decorated Irish pub while enjoying a cold one during the game. Members looking for another new spot from which to take in the action can head to Zetlin’s Lounge. Featuring 17-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and a 22-foot bar, Zetlin’s lounge offers excellent views of the action while enjoying cold beverages. If you want to experience a Comets game like a season ticket holder, the team has several unique options to check out. The Horton Room, located behind section 218, is named for former Utica player and coach Bill Horton. This lounge boasts a line-up of top-shelf liquors and Labatt Blue beer and is decorated with Utica hockey memorabilia. Another option is Kilfoil’s Irish Pub. Fans looking for a pint of Guinness can watch the action in an authentically decorated Irish pub while enjoying a cold one during the game. Members looking for another new spot from which to take in the action can head to Zetlin’s Lounge. Featuring 17-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and a 22-foot bar, Zetlin’s lounge offers excellent views of the action while enjoying cold beverages. Neighborhood 2 The Aud is located on the edge of downtown but is not integrated into the downtown region due to the presence of railroad tracks, highway off-ramps, and abandoned buildings. The city of Utica is similar to many mid-sized cities in the northeast in that it has seen better days and is struggling to recover. Visiting fans will find little in the immediate area in terms of places to eat or stay, but there are some choices located a short drive from the Aud. Utica’s Brewery District is located about a mile from the arena, and tours of the Saranac Brewery are very popular with out-of-town fans. Architecture buffs will be sure to check out the Stanley Theater and the Utica Union Station. Fans 4 In a building with a listed capacity of 3,860, Utica has averaged over that figure in each of the past four seasons. Utica proudly touts their sellout streak, which reached 100 games during the 2017-18 season. The team has a season ticket membership of 3,300 fans, which leaves less than 500 tickets available for each game. These tickets are snapped up quickly, forcing fans to search the secondary market for available seats, a rarity in the minor leagues. Comet fans do more than just fill the seats, as they provide the team with a significant home-ice advantage. Chants of “UTICA-UTICA-UTICA” reverberate through the Aud every night. The fans here are fully aware of the shifting landscape of the AHL and are doing their best to prove they are worthy of inclusion in this exclusive club. Access 3 Located on Oriskany Street West on the edge of downtown, the Aud is easy to get to via city streets, Interstate 790, and Route 12. There are a pair of large parking lots adjacent to the Aud, as well, as ample on-street parking within a few blocks of the facility. The Aud is set up in a horseshoe layout, with a stage on one end of the ice surface. The blue and red stadium seats that make up the seating bowl all provide excellent views of the ice. There is a walkway about a third of the way up the seating bowl, where the Comettes dance team performs throughout the evening. There is constant traffic on this walkway, so choose seats a few rows up to avoid an obstructed view. There is a small concourse located underneath the seating bowl, which can become crowded during intermissions. Recent renovations have expanded and renovated the restrooms, improving traffic dramatically. Still, plan your trips to concession stands and restrooms wisely. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Comets games range in price from $18-$28. While these prices are a bit higher than neighboring American Hockey League teams in Syracuse, Binghamton, and Rochester, they are not out of line with other teams at this level. Helping to make going to a Utica Comets game more affordable is the wealth of free parking available around the Aud, both in municipal lots across the street and on street within a few blocks of the arena. With reasonable concession prices at the Aud, a night at a Utica Comets game is the most affordable entertainment option for Mohawk Valley sports fans. . Extras 3 An extra point is given for The Aud’s unique roof design. The arena was constructed using the world’s first pre-stressed dual cable roof system, designed by Lev Zetlin. This design influenced many modern dome designs seen today, including Madison Square Garden. The Aud was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers in recognition of its innovative cable-suspended roof. Scenes from the 1977 hockey cult classic movie Slap Shot starring Paul Newman were filmed at the Aud. The arena hosted 1962 Frozen Four. The place still has that old-time look that has remained unchanged. A final extra point is awarded for the sense of history and community present at the Aud. From the murals that decorate the walls of the arena to the War Memorial honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice to our country to the memorabilia present throughout the building, there’s a vibe here at the Aud that just can’t be replicated in a bigger building in a bigger city. Final Thoughts The city of Utica was awarded a team at the worst possible time for a small city in the northeast when teams were fleeing established American Hockey League markets throughout the area to head out west and begin a new Pacific Division. When it was announced that Utica would affiliate with the distant Vancouver Canucks, it was widely assumed that the Comets would soon head west to a more geographically convenient location. Five years later, despite constant rumors of relocation, support for the team has swelled, and the Comets look to be solidly entrenched in the Mohawk Valley. Recent improvements to the Aud have served to improve what was already one of the top fan experiences in the American Hockey League.

The Stadium Journey 2024 MLB Ballpark Rankings will be released soon with yours truly having had the opportunity to once again visit all 5 of California’s MLB yards. For a preview of what to expect when the Stadium Journey’s rankings of all 30 yards are released, here are the scores of the 5 California MLB parks visited on a scale of 1 through 5 stars. The scores are based on several factors such as Atmosphere, Access, Return On Investment, Food & Beverage, Neighborhood and Extras. 5. Oakland Coliseum - Oakland Athletics 2.57 The Coliseum has seen happier times.  From four World Champion teams and big names such as Reggie Jackson, Rickey Henderson, Catfish Hunter, Dennis Eckersley and the Bash Brothers Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco,   Baseball's Last Dive Bar  has had its share of historical moments that will forever remain deeply   Rooted In Oakland . It’s days as an MLB park are nearing the bitter end. Or is it?   4. Angel Stadium - Los Angeles Angels 3.71   The 4th oldest active park in the bigs, one could make a case that the Big A, as some locals still refer to it, holds as much historical significance as Fenway Park, Wrigley Field and Dodger Stadium. While the   City of Anaheim and the Angels  continue to work out their differences and a   state audit is looming ,  for the time being, the Angels will remain through at least 2029 with opt-out options through 2038. 3. Dodger Stadium - Los Angeles Dodgers 4.14  The mere presence of Shohei Ohtani has brought a level of excitement that you may say has matched the level that Fernando Valenzuela brought during the days of Fernandomania. Like Fernando and even Hideo Nomo during the mid to late 90’s, the fandom that Shohei brings to The Ravine come from all various walks of life. Recent enhancements throughout the third oldest yard in the Majors have made the Dodger Stadium experience much more accessible for fans wanting to experience as much of the historic venue and have assured us that Dodger Stadium will be the home to Dodger Baseball for many more years to come. 2. Oracle Park - San Francisco Giants 4.57   Upon completion of its 25th season, Oracle Park continues to shine as a Bay Area landmark that every baseball fan should pay a visit. With its picturesque views of the bay providing cool nightly summer breezes, it’s no coincidence why Oracle Park consistently ranks among the top MLB parks every year.   If visiting The City for the first time, it is a good idea to pack some warm clothing and a sizable budget. San Francisco can be surprisingly chilly for the first-time visitor expecting some warm California weather. Oracle Park is as iconic to San Francisco as its Golden Gate Bridge.  1. PETCO Park - San Diego Padres 4.71   The recently renovated   Gallagher Square , located beyond the outfield seating area is a good way for the casual fan to spend a day at Petco Park. The recent $20 million renovations to Gallagher Square presents fans with more room to maneuver, as well as an updated video board along the Sycuan concert stage, leveled tiered lawn seating and a vastly improved kids play area that features the world’s largest climbable bat and an off-leash dog park.  Celebrating its 20th year Petco Park continues to play a huge role in the revitalization of the local area throughout the East Village. With a vibrant neighborhood and enthusiastic fans coming in droves along with one of the more picturesque parks among the 30, it’s no wonder Petco Park continually ranks high in our   MLB Ballpark Rankings  and   other ballpark rankings . So these are my rankings of the 5 MLB parks traveled throughout the Great State of California. How will these parks rank overall when our 2024 Stadium Journey MLB Ballpark Rankings are released? Will PETCO Park retain its top spot? Stay tuned.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Reitz Arena 4501 N Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21210 Loyola (MD) Greyhounds website Reitz Arena website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 2,100 Release the ‘Hounds Loyola University may not be as well-known as Loyola in Illinois. Or Loyola in New Orleans. Or Loyola Marymount in California. But this university began in 1852 as Loyola College in Maryland. It is a Roman Catholic, Jesuit private university located in Baltimore, Maryland. Previously an all-male college, Loyola became coeducational in 1971, following its joining with Mount Saint Agnes College. Currently, Loyola is located right next door to all-female Notre Dame of Maryland University. Loyola has a strong liberal arts program, as well as a fine education school and the Joseph A. Sellinger School of Business and Management. Notable alumni include Tom Clancy, author of The Hunt for Red October, Mark Bowden, author of Black Hawk Down and ABC Olympics commentator Jim McKay. Reitz Arena replaced the original 1926 Evergreen Gymnasium on the campus. Food & Beverage 1 You should try and eat before the game. Why? There is a simple temporary food table set up in the entrance way to the game. There is no real lobby to the arena, so there is no room for additional offerings. Atmosphere 2 The arena changed the seats from all bench seating to a mixture of chairs with seat backs and plastic bench type seating. The arena is small and there is not much space. That means it is loud if there is any type of a crowd. There is just not always a big crowd. Neighborhood 3 Loyola is in a very good part of Baltimore City. The problem is that there is just nothing much around the local neighborhood. Luckily Baltimore is a big city that is not too big to get around. Miss Shirley’s at 513 West Cold Spring Lane is noted for their great breakfast and down-home food. Also relatively close to the university is the Mt. Washington neighborhood that straddles I-83 South (known as the Jones Falls Expressway, or the JFX, by locals). The Mt. Washington Tavern is an excellent restaurant with both a fine food and bar food type of menu. The place is large, and there always seems to be room for more. Parking is the biggest problem here, so it would be worth paying the nominal valet charges. Radisson Hotel at Cross Keys is the closest hotel and has a new and exciting lobby restaurant which is another option. Venturing further from campus, one may want to try out the suburb of Towson with its variety of shops and restaurants. Try the Charles Village Pub (19 W Pennsylvania Ave) in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are The Crease (523 York Rd), Glory Days Grill (1220 E. Joppa Rd), Sushi Hana (6 E. Pennsylvania Ave) and Zia’s (13 West Allegheny Ave). Fans 3 Reitz Arena usually does not fill to capacity, let alone for volleyball games. Access 3 Reitz Arena certainly has issues with access. First, the campus is located in a quiet north Baltimore neighborhood. That means that getting to the campus is not easy. The best route is to travel I-83/The JFX, south and get off at Cold Spring Lane. Other options include exiting I-695, the Baltimore Beltway, and driving south via York Road or Charles Street. York is the busiest route, but may be easier than the high-speed curves of Charles Street. Second, when you get to campus, you will need luck finding parking. Not only will you have trouble finding close parking, but you may have trouble finding any parking. If it is a weeknight game during the semester, you may be sorely out of luck. Look for spaces on Cold Spring Lane or one of the small lots around that area. Then once you have found that parking space, you will need to find the arena. There are very few markings for Reitz Arena. Look for the Andrew White Student Center. The arena is actually above the art gallery and the campus Starbucks in the student center. And it gets even funnier, as the ticket windows are far away in the student center and not at all near the arena doors. And the doors to the arena itself are a pair of nondescript, unmarked doors back near Starbucks. Finding an arena should not be this difficult. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are free so the return on investment is very good. Extras 2 The maze of an entrance is almost an extra on its own, as it is so unique. But seriously, look at Diane Geppi-Aikens Field just outside the Andrew White Student Center. This is the former home to the men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams. Geppi-Aikens was a former star athlete and women’s lacrosse coach at Loyola who died of brain cancer in 2003. Located just outside of the Reitz Arena, the field is valuable space, so visit it while you can. Hopefully if they do remove the field, the university can still find a way to honor the beloved former coach. In 2014 the Loyola campus was designated an accredited arboretum by the Morton Register of Arboreta. The 80-acre campus boasts more than 2,200 trees that represent 84 varieties. Final Thoughts Reitz Arena is a small arena hidden away on a pretty campus. The small size of the facility can make it a nice place to see a game, if you can find your way to the arena.

Photos by Paul Donaldson, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 The Pavilion at Ole Miss Hill Dr & All-American Dr University, MS 38677 Mississippi Rebels website The Pavilion at Ole Miss website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 9,500 Ole Miss Hoops at The Pavilion When you think of Ole Miss athletics, the first thoughts which come to mind are probably the Manning Family, Rebel football, Hotty Toddy, and the entertaining tailgate atmosphere at the Grove. Ole Miss Hoops, however, has the opportunity to earn a place among these popular experiences with their brand new, state-of-the-art basketball arena, The Pavilion at Ole Miss. Constructed in 2015, The Pavilion has replaced the aging ‘Tad Pad’ which served as the home court for the Rebels since 1966. It was definitely time for a new arena, and Ole Miss held nothing back in providing a fan-friendly atmosphere complete with free WIFI, plug-in ports, the largest center-hung video scoreboard in college athletics, and a large lounge area. There’s even a Raising Canes and Steak ‘n Shake on the inside. While there’s still work to do in terms of consistent overall fan energy, the Ole Miss Hoops experience at The Pavilion has made its mark in 2016 as one of the best overall environments to watch college basketball. Food & Beverage 5 The food options at The Pavilion provide the perfect combination of quality and variety. There’s much more than the basics here. The two most popular concessions options, the Steak ‘n Shake and Raising Canes stands, are located just inside the main entrance and nearest to the student section. With popularity comes a bit of a line, but The Pavilion utilizes stanchions for each of their concession stands which helps to manage the line and speeds up service. If you’re not feeling like having burgers, shakes, or fried chicken strips, head around to the other side of the arena for additional options. The Rebel Grill offers classic fare items like a foot-long hot dog ($7), corn dog ($5), sausage basket ($10), and cheeseburger basket ($10). Pizza ($6) is available at the Old Venice Pizza Co. stand. This is a popular chain in Mississippi and their pizza is worth a taste. Chop’s BBQ serves up BBQ nachos ($9), a BBQ sandwich basket ($9), and a Hebrew National hot dog ($4). Other snacks are available at each of these stands including nachos with cheese ($4), pretzels ($5), popcorn ($3), and more. Throughout the concourse, you’ll find a few specialty carts like Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream. Beverages are headlined by Coca-Cola products. You can score a “bottomless” soda for $6, a small soda for $4, and bottled water for $3. Alcoholic beverages are not sold at The Pavilion. Atmosphere 5 Kudos to the Ole Miss Athletics Department for dedicating prime area seating to the student body. While they could certainly cash in on sidelines and end lines seating, these lower-level seats are reserved for students only and wrap from the northeast corner to the west sidelines and back around to the southeast corner. In the first season at The Pavilion, the students responded to this prime seating by showing up early and being in the game throughout both halves. Lower-level seating on the east sidelines is reserved for members of the Courtside and Pavilion Clubs. Despite much of the prime seating near the floor being reserved, there are still plenty of great seats in the upper lower section above the student section, thanks to a smart design. With a total capacity of 9,500, the arena doesn’t feel cavernous and the seats in the mezzanine level (sections 201-218) offer a great view as well. Look for seats in Section 204 for a great mid-court elevated view, with the “Ole Miss” center-court logo facing you. All of the seats at The Pavilion are cushioned You’ll definitely be impressed by the lounge area on the north side of the concourse. There is a small electronics shop, tables and sofas, and plenty of room for fans to eat or meet up away from the action. With both Raising Canes and Steak ‘n Shake located here as well, it’s definitely an active area. In the smartphone age, there just never seem to be enough electric plug-ins available anywhere, much less at a sports facility. One of the really neat aspects of The Pavilion is the installation of a standing “bar” around the concourse facing the floor. This allows fans to watch the game away from their seats and there are also plenty of plug-ins under the bar, so it makes for a great spot to charge up as well. Combine this with free wi-fi courtesy of C Spire and the experience is a smartphone owner’s dream. The center-hung scoreboard is the largest in college sports and makes use of every video panel providing a unique multi-screen, wrap around the display (features nearly 2,400 square feet of LED). The promotions crew works hard to provide both the feel of a college event but with the bells and whistles, you’d expect at an NBA arena including the popular “Kiss Cam,” “Bongo Cam,” and other promotions like the t-shirt toss, and even parachuting t-shirts down from the rafters. Neighborhood 3 The Pavilion is located on the campus of the University of Mississippi in the city of Oxford (technically, the university area is incorporated as “University, MS”). The Ole Miss campus provides the Southern charm you’d expect in the deep south and is a beautiful and comfortable backdrop for Ole Miss basketball. Oxford may be a little short on big-time attractions, but you’ll fall in love with The Square area and the plantation-style homes throughout the region. There are several must-stop restaurants while in town. For lunch, be sure to stop in for the best cheeseburger in town at Handy Andy Grocery. The place doesn’t look like much (it’s a converted small grocery), but it’s a friendly, neighborhood atmosphere on the inside with good old-fashioned greasy cheeseburgers as well as a few barbecue options. Ajax Diner is located in the town square and offers a delicious assortment of southern cuisine dishes (both the chicken fried steak and meatloaf dishes are amazing). Phillip’s Grocery is also a great stop for burgers. While Oxford isn’t overflowing with attractions and entertainment, there are a few stops worth making. Any visit to Ole Miss requires a stop at “The Grove.” While it won’t be beaming with usual activity during football tailgates, it’s still a nice central stopping point on the Ole Miss campus. Bring a football and a throw blanket. You’ll want to spend some time in Oxford’s The Square. From restaurants to coffee, shops, and bars, it’s the central hub of activity in town. Off Square, Books is a cool local bookstore if you’re interested in a little quiet time. Keeping with the book theme, one of the hot attractions in town is William Faulkner’s house (Rowan Oak). Fans 4 The Ole Miss community has embraced the new life breathed into the Rebels basketball program with a state-of-the-art facility. Time will tell if the strong attendance will continue past the first year, but so far, the students are showing up in droves and the facility was nearly sold out for the 2016 season. Average attendance in 2016 was right around 8,000 for the season, which is up by about 1,000 from strong years at the Tad Pad. And that’s not to say there are just butts in the seats. The Pavilion can get extremely loud after big moments. There are a few fan traditions including the infamous “Hotty Toddy” chant just before tip-off. In case you aren’t familiar, the chant goes like this: “Are You Ready? (yelled by the announcer) H*** Yeah! D*** Right! Hotty Toddy, Gosh Almighty, Who The H*** Are We? Hey! Flim Flam, Bim Bam Ole Miss By D***!” Access 4 The Pavilion is located on the south side of campus nearby other athletic facilities like Vaught-Hemingway Stadium , the Track, and Field facility, and the former basketball homecourt, the Tad Pad. Oxford and the campus of Ole Miss are located in the northern part of Mississippi at the intersection of Highway 278 and 7. If you’re heading in from the north or south, I-55 is the major interstate that runs nearby. Considering Oxford’s location, it’s not very convenient for fans coming in from out of town with no major airlines or transportation services nearby. In 2016, there was some significant construction taking place in the area south of the arena which impacts traffic and parking. For conference games, much of the parking around the arena, including the adjacent parking garage, is reserved for season ticket holders. However, there is plenty of free campus parking available, though a short walk will be required. Be sure to visit OleMissHoops.com for information about parking. The areas indicated in blue below are open parking lots. Tickets can be picked up at the ticket office at the main entrance on the north side. The lines are very short. You’ll quickly get into the arena without much of a headache. There is a ton of room in the concourse once you get inside. The restrooms are brand new and spacious. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices for elite college basketball experiences are definitely on the high side. However, at The Pavilion, prices are relatively affordable, and offer quality SEC match-ups. Upper-level Mezzanine tickets are available for $20 and lower-level tickets begin at $25. This is a great deal to catch top-tier college basketball in a state-of-the-art arena. Concession prices are relatively affordable and parking can be found for free if you don’t mind a walk. Overall, the return on investment for a Rebels game at The Pavilion is excellent. Extras 5 There are more than just a few “extra” components at The Pavilion which help to enhance the overall environment for Ole Miss Hoops. Throughout the concourse, there’s great wall art including a neat historical display along the entire west side concourse. Be sure to spend some time checking this out before the game or during a break in the action. Above the south side is a huge mural that honors the numbers (along with a few pictures) of past Rebel Hoops greats. It’s a great usage of space that could have otherwise been a boring empty wall. Along the north side, banners hang from the rafters for Ole Miss Hoops' accomplishments. The center-hung scoreboard is the largest in college basketball and is a big part of the overall atmosphere. Money well spent. Also, the lounge area is one-of-a-kind and allows those not zoned in on the game to mingle while grabbing a bite to eat. If you need some Rebel gear, you’re in luck. In the southwest corner, you’ll find a Rebel apparel shop offering everything from mini-basketballs to hats.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Kia Center 400 W Church St Orlando, FL 32801 Orlando Solar Bears' website Kia Center website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 17,353 Hockey Night in Orlando The idea of hockey in Florida should no longer be a foreign one to sports fans – the Florida Panthers  and Tampa Bay Lightning have been in the league for several decades with their respective successes in the NHL. The ECHL also has several Florida teams, including the Orlando Solar Bears. Perhaps unfairly forgotten by most in the Central Florida sports landscape, this hidden gem provides a perfect opportunity to see some great hockey in an A-plus facility that won’t break the bank. In the last few years, Orlando’s sports revival has seen the stock of the Solar Bears experience rise exponentially, with fans packing the house on a nightly basis for Orlando hockey.   Food & Beverage   4 The concessions at Kia Center are impressive. The home of the Solar Bears combines standard stadium concessions and local favorites with known brands from around the country. Among the popular spots are PDQ Chicken ($15.99-$19.99 for chicken tenders, $15.99 for chicken sandwiches) and Papa Johns ($10.99-$11.99 per personal pizza); local favorites come in the form of 4 Rivers BBQ ($15.99 for BBQ chicken nachos, pulled pork nachos, or carved turkey sandwiches) and Gringos Locos Tacos ($12.99-$15.99 for nachos, $6.99 for tacos). Stadium favorites like popcorn ($6.99), jumbo pretzels ($4.99), hot dogs (9.99), and even Brazilian meat bowls and burritos ($14.99) are available. Drinks include soda ($6.49-$7.99) and beer ($11.99-$13.99). Smaller food vendor carts are also scattered around the arena, including coffee stands and Dippin’ Dots ice cream. The downside of Solar Bears games is that some of these concessions may not be available at all games, as the upper level is closed off and some of the stands are only open when demand requires. Perhaps the coolest thing about the concessions at Kia Center, though, is the Ultra Club bar, an outdoor location that overlooks the downtown skyline, while also providing a beautiful gathering space for some fresh air, good drinks, and TVs that show the action inside. Another great spot is the Big Storm Brewing location on the event level near the main entrance – this bar and restaurant is open from 11 am to 7 pm on weekends, as well as during Kia Center events, and features its entrance to the arena for fans with tickets. Atmosphere   5 Kia Center is stunning; from the vibrant and colorful concourse lighting that extends to the main entrance lobby to the unique arrangement of the court’s flooring – everything here is visually beautiful. The arena looks like it is a new facility, not one that has been open for over seven years. The acoustics are also great, making the crowd roar loud and noticeable. Solar Bears seats are routinely full when it comes to ticket sales on the weekends, or for certain theme nights, meaning you have the feel of a big game depending on when you go. But perhaps the best thing is that Solar Bears games feel like they are a family affair; there are young fans at every game, and the team works to engage with younger fans like few others. The family-friendly atmosphere penetrates everything you see and do at Kia Center. Neighborhood   5 What can you say about downtown Orlando? Kia Center is steps away from 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. The immediate area around Kia Center includes suburbs to the west and the downtown city center to the east. There are tons of hotels nearby, and since the arena sits next to I-4, getting to other resorts and hotels in the greater Orlando area is not hard to do either. Fans can easily stay at the Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, or the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown, and still walk to the arena with ease. For local restaurants, AC Sky Bar is one of the most popular sports bars in the Church Street area. Fans also visit Aku Aku Tiki Bar, World of Beer, and Tin & Taco, and if you want to see the sights, Lake Eola Park is just a few blocks away; this park is an Orlando landmark that is also home to a weekly farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. Being in Orlando you are also just a short drive from Walt Disney World, Sea World, and the Universal Studios theme parks.   Fans   4 The fans who come to Orlando Solar Bear games are passionate, to say the least. Not only do they love their hockey team and cheer them on with fervor, but attendance has grown in recent years. A lot of fans can be seen sporting t-shirts and jerseys from the team, an impressive feat for any minor league or lower-division professional sports franchise working in the shadows of other, larger pro teams in the city. The disappointment here, however, is the closed upper level. While bigger games do draw larger fan totals, such as on opening night, themed nights, and during playoff games, your run-of-the-mill mid-week games only draw about half capacity, which can leave the arena looking bare in some places. Even during playoff games the upper-most deck of Amway Center is covered by large curtains. That said, the attendance has been growing as of late, which is encouraging for the Solar Bears and their quest to return to prominence.   Access   5 How much easier can an arena be to get to? Driving on I-4 you pass within a few yards of Kia Center itself, so not finding the venue is quite arguably an impossibility. But if you do somehow get lost, signs all around downtown point the way to the facility, and both the South Street exit and the South Street Express Lanes exit drop you off right next to the arena. Also, when leaving there is an I-4 express lane entrance on South Street well. Once you get to Kia Center, the Geico Garage is your best option for parking, and the best part is that the garage connects to the arena through a sky bridge across the street. There are also numerous other parking options nearby in parking lots and garages in the area; the only downside of late is the continuing construction in and around the I-4 corridor throughout the greater Orlando area.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets are not expensive for Orlando Solar Bears games, and neither is parking. Add to this the quality and quantity you get for food when at the game, and you have one of the best values when it comes to taking your family out for some hockey. With the ease of getting to the arena, parking, getting into the game, and finding something to eat inside, it is hard to argue against the Solar Bears when comparing them to other hockey teams around the minor leagues, and maybe some pro hockey teams as well.   Extras   3 Fans can also enjoy the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame and other team memorabilia on the main concourse – these displays pay tribute to some of Orlando’s sporting heritage, community connections, and their best players of years past. Like other stadiums, the Solar Bears have their championship banners hanging in the rafters for all visitors to see. Finally, Kia Center has also partnered with Disney, meaning there are various displays and nods to the Orlando theme park throughout the facility, including large painted Mickey statues in the main lobby, and an entire suite inside sponsored by the theme parks. Final Thoughts The Orlando Solar Bears are a great choice when looking for a quality addition to your Central Florida visit. Whether you’re a hockey fanatic, a sports junkie in general, or just want to find something to take the family to that won’t cost you $100 a head to get in the door, hitting up a Solar Bears game is a great option for you to consider. Between the low cost and the high entertainment value, it is easy to see why the Orlando Solar Bears are on their way up from here.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Alico Arena 10501 FGCU Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33965 Florida Gulf Coast Eagles website Alico Arena website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 4,633 Welcome to Dunk City Florida Gulf Coast University is a member of the University System of Florida. It opened in 1991 and has grown to offer more than 58 undergraduate degree programs. The Ft. Myers campus is now home to more than 15,000 students. The sports teams at FGCU are known as the Eagles. The basketball program at the university originally participated in sports at the Division II level, moving up to Division I status in 2011. The team is a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The round ballers found their wings in 2013, as they won the Atlantic Sun Conference Championship, then defeated both Georgetown and San Diego State in the NCAA Tournament to go on to the Sweet 16. They then lost to the eventual National Champions from the University of Florida in the round of 16. It was during this tournament that the team earned the moniker “Dunk City” and “Florida Dunk Coast” for its proclivity to slam the ball through the net. The nicknames have stuck and still are in use more than a decade later. The team also played their way in as a First Four team in 2016 and a number 14 seed in 2. Alico Arena is the on-campus “nest” for the Eagles basketball program. It opened in 2002 and has a seating capacity of 4,633. The seating bowl features five sets of retractable bleachers. The seating area also includes six skybox suites. Food & Beverage 4 Alico Arena has two permanent concession stands and two portable concession kiosks. The permanent stands are located on the first level of the arena on both sides of the lobby. The portable concessions kiosks are found at the second level of the venue on the NW side of the court. The stands offer hot dogs ($5), candy ($3), chips ($3), popcorn ($4), cotton candy ($6), nachos ($5), pretzel bites ($6), cookie ($4) and Dippin’ Dots ($6). Beverages available at Alico Arena include 20 oz. Pepsi brand sodas ($3), 20 oz. bottled water ($3) and Gatorade ($4). Alcoholic beverages are also available at the arena. They include Budweiser brand beers ($6) and wine ($6). Atmosphere 4 The venues for all the sports FGCU offers are located on campus at the school’s Athletic Complex. A large statue of the school’s eagle mascot is located in front of the Alico Arena. Alico Arena is always a lively place for the Eagles' home games. The FGCU student section is located behind one of the baskets, and they do everything possible to confuse the opposition on free throws and yell loud enough that it intimidates the visitors. The cheer teams for the Eagles are located immediately in front of the student section. The arena features a wide variety of graphics in its lobby, outlining the various titles won by the various sports at FGCU. The trophies earned by each sport at the school are also on display. A spirit table offers free items such as posters, key rings, and scorecards for the fans. The seating area at Alico Arena features seatbacks on the sides of the court and bleacher seating at the ends of the court. There is a large four-sided LED center-hung scoreboard constantly providing updates and stats for the game. Neighborhood 4 There’s plenty to do nearby before or after a FGCU basketball game. Sports fans might enjoy a sports doubleheader by attending a Florida Everblades hockey game at nearby Hertz Arena. Those who like shop to shop, until they drop, can head one way on Ben Hill Griffin Parkway and shop at Gulf Coast Town Center Mall or head in the opposite direction and shop at Miramar Outlet Mall. Two popular dining spots near FGCU are Ford’s Garage at the Outlet Mall or Pinchers Crab Shack at Gulf Coast Town Center. There is no shortage of lodging facilities near Alico Arena. The two closest hotels to FGCU are the Embassy Suites on Corkscrew Commons Drive and the Hilton Garden Inn on Corporate Commons Way. Fans 4 Basketball is the marquee sport at FGCU, as the university does not have a football program. It also has established a long history of success, which has resulted in a very loyal fan base. They tend to fill the arena for conference games and bring their A-game to create noise during the game. The arena tends to hold in this noise, making it hard for the visiting teams to communicate on the floor, resulting in frequent turnovers. The student section at Eagles games is known as “The Dirty Birds”. For the most part, they do keep their cheers clean. They erupt after a dunk by the Eagles or even a clean blocked shot against the visitors. The students coordinate very closely with the Eagles cheer squad, as well as AZUL, the team’s Eagle mascot. Access 4 Alico Arena is easy to get to via I-75 in the Ft. Myers area: Coming from the North on I-75: Take exit# 128 (Alico Road) off I-75. Go left on Alico Road for one mile. Turn left onto Ben Hill Grifin Parkway and go two miles. Turn left onto FGCU Blvd. South. At the first stop sign turn left and go to the next stop sign. Turn right and go past the Aquatics Complex. Turn into the parking lot for Alico Arena. Coming from the South on I-75: Take exit# 123 (Corkscrew Road). Turn right on Corkscrew Road and go one mile. Turn left onto Ben Hill Griffin Parkway. Go two miles and turn left onto FGCU Blvd. South. At the first stop sign turn left and go to the next stop sign. Turn left and go to the next stop sign. Turn right onto FGCU LAKE Parkway and go past the Aquatics Complex. Turn into the parking lot for Alico Arena. Arena doors open one hour before tipoff, leaving you plenty of time to buy a drink and find your seats. Return on Investment 4 General Admission seats are $10. Seats on the sides of the court are $33 and seats in the corners are $18. Seats behind the basket are $10. Student seating is free for persons showing their FGCU student ID card. Add $2.00 to these prices if you are buying the tickets at the door. Seating behind one of the baskets is reserved for the FGCU student section. The concessions available at Eagles basketball games are very reasonably priced. Parking is free in the lots adjacent to the Alico Arena. Extras 4 Banners for each member school of the ASUN Conference hang from the ceiling of the Alico Center. There are also banners for each championship won by FGCU, as well as banners representing their trips to the NCAA Tournament. Make sure to stop by the trophy case in the lobby, as it houses the trophies for every sport that FGCU takes part in. In addition to FGCU men’s and women’s basketball, the Alico Arena also hosts commencement ceremonies, concerts, public speakers, and community events. FGCU is one of the few Florida schools to have a club ice hockey team. The team uses the nearby Hertz Arena, home of the Florida Everblades , as their home ice. The Eagle statue in front of Alico Arena makes for a great photo opp. In addition, there are two sports-specific plexiglass eagles (one dressed in baseball gear and the other in basketball gear) in the lobby of the basketball venue. Final Thoughts The Alico Arena at Florida Gulf Coast University provides a very friendly nest for the Eagles roundball program. The arena also is known as the home of “Dunk City”, as the high-flying Eagles are known for their proclivity to slam the ball through the nets regularly.

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Jenny Craig Pavilion 5998 Alcala Park San Diego, CA 92110 San Diego Toreros website Jenny Craig Pavilion website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 5,100 Journey to The Slim Gym While the venue looks like a pristine, new facility, it actually opened back in 2000. When the doors opened, Jenny Craig herself was there to present it to the students and faculty. The facility was constructed at a cost of $17 million and seats 5,100 fans. We’ve all heard of stadium names that have received nicknames rather than their true corporate nickname such as “The Pond” ( Honda Center – Anaheim Ducks ), or “The Big A” ( Angel Stadium of Anaheim ) or even the Jenny Craig Pavilion, which many like to refer as, JCP, which may lead some to think the venue is named after the once popular department store JC Penny. Even with the JCP moniker, the JCP also goes by another nickname, and of all the nicknames, it may have the best of them all, known as the “Slim Gym” as a play on the diet plan. Strangely enough, the Torero basketball program is more known for producing NBA coaches than players. While the program has laid the groundwork for players to ascend into the NBA, many of them achieved more success in the coaching ranks. Three of them include Bernie Bickerstaff (Sonics, Nuggets, Wizards), Eric Musselman (Warriors, Kings), and Mike Brown (Cavaliers). Before proceeding, I should also mention the nickname of the University of San Diego. Those who have not experienced the local culture may not be familiar with the term “torero.” A popular term in Spain, Portugal, and Mexico, torero is a term used for a bullfighter. The term is synonymous with “matador,” the nickname for the team two hours north at Cal State Northridge. Food & Beverage 3 The dining options here are a step above what you would normally find in a small venue. One can even step out to the courtyard and purchase food in one of a few pop up stands as well as a food truck. Inside the foyer, you have your basic fare, hot dogs, nachos and fries ($5), garlic fries ($6.50), chicken tenders ($7.50 / $9 with fries) and BBQ pulled pork sandwich ($9). Healthy options, ironically limited in a venue named after a health guru, are Caesar salad ($8) and whole fruit ($2). The beverage options include soda (Coke products: medium $4.50 for 21 oz, $5.50 for 32 oz.) bottled water and Powerade ($4.50), and coffee or hot cocoa ($3). If you decide you want to step outside into the courtyard a food truck offers bbq chicken sandwich and cheeseburger and fries ($10). Doggos Gus has a pop up stand that serves Mexican Gourmet Hot Dogs, $6 for a Baja Doggo, a jumbo bacon wrapped dog topped with grilled onions and jalapenos ($7 for super jumbo) as well as Doggo Nachos, chips covered with nacho cheese and topped with bacon wrapped hot dog slices ($7). Other pop up stands at the courtyard offer kettle corn ($6) and Greek dining options. Gyro and falafel wraps are $7, plates $12. Gyro and falafel plates come with salad, rice, hummus, pita bread, and water. The food and beverage prices are very reasonable, especially the Greek plates. JCP does a nice job of allowing fans to venture out into the courtyard. Not only does this improve pedestrian flow should JCP entertain a good sized crowd, but access to the courtyard also allows fans a chance to step outside and mingle among each other while soaking in the scenery amidst the nice Southern California weather. If there is one minor drawback, the foyer and courtyard, located in the south end of the arena where fans enter, are the only locations where food can be purchased. Atmosphere 3 Contributing to the atmosphere is the aesthetic appeal that JCP offers the moment one steps inside the building as fans walk through one of the more impressive foyers leading into the seating area. Though it may be one of the more aesthetically pleasing college venues you may have a chance to visit, even when packed the fans don’t quite provide that intimidation factor that you would find at let’s say, Duke’s Cameron Indoor Stadium. Though the USD basketball program can produce a respectable team every now and then, the feeling you get among those in attendance is that the visiting team is as much responsible for the big turnout, a fact not lost among both the locals and the team as well . Neighborhood 3 The USD campus is located close to several points of interest such as Old Town, Fashion Valley Mall, Mission Valley, Old Town, Mission, and Pacific Beach and Downtown. If you have some free time during the day and feel like exploring the city, chances are you won’t be too far removed from the campus. Fans 3 With top-ranked Gonzaga in town, JCP would be filled to capacity for the 15th time during its existence. Though the home team would be totally outmanned on this evening, the enthusiasm of the fans, particularly the students behind the north basket close to the visitors’ bench, would not be dampened, even “playfully” heckling certain visiting players in spite of the home 5 trailing huge deep into the 2nd half. Access 3 On most nights, access to the JCP requires little to no effort. But on that occasion when the JCP is filled to capacity, you will want to give yourself some ample time if you hope to arrive by the opening tip-off. To enter the JCP you will be walking up a hill. If a good-sized crowd is projected, it is possible that you will be standing in a long beeline along a narrow sidewalk before you arrive at the entrance. Once you do arrive at the top, you will be rewarded by walking through a huge courtyard, which is used for fans to mingle during the game should they decide to step out. The courtyard, with its tranquil scenery highlighted by a fountain that beautifully blends in with the surrounding architecture, makes for a great halftime destination. As you enter the arena, you will be walking through a very impressive foyer, highlighted by its arches, tiled floor, ceiling design, and light fixtures. Inside the foyer are displays highlighting some of USD’s great athletic moments as well as its former players who made significant contributions to the program. Inside the arena spacious walkway circles throughout the entire seating bowl, allowing fans to roam without missing any of the action. Return on Investment 3 Single game tickets prices start at $8 for youth baseline, $14-$16 for baseline or sideline seats. Premium game tickets can range from $25-$40 for BYU and Gonzaga. The price for even the premium games particularly Gonzaga is actually not bad when compared to other upper-level collegiate venues. Extras 3 Inside the JCP there are two boards, one on each end that provides the fans live in-game action as well as replays, player stats and of course the score. I bring this up because most small venues only provide one board, which, depending on a fan’s desire to look at stats and replays, can be an inconvenience depending on their seating location. The 16th century Spanish Renaissance look to the JCP blends in really nicely with the buildings throughout campus. USD’s hillside location in Alcala Park also provides nice views overlooking Mission Bay. The Torero program has now participated in the NCAA Tournament four times. A banner above the USD team bench commemorates 1984, 1987, 2003, and 2008 seasons. The most recent appearance in 2008 even saw the school reach the second round. The Toreros would be the first collegiate program in San Diego to advance past the first round of the NCAA Tournament, which may come as a surprise to some given San Diego State’s recent run of tournament appearances under Steve Fisher. Final Thoughts Though it is likely you will be occupied with other activities in America’s Finest City prior to the game, if you have some other free time on your hands, take the time to walk around campus and take in some of the other 16th Century Spanish designed architecture, as well as the scenic views overlooking Mission Bay. If you have an opportunity to visit a West Coast Conference venue in Southern California, if you are a diehard college hoops fan, seize the opportunity to do it. Some of the more underrated and more economical collegiate basketball experiences can be found in such venues in Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, and USD. Like with many programs without the deep history, you just never know if you’re witnessing a future “Cinderella” in the making. Got any other thoughts? Questions? Reach me on my Twitter @Good_Drei . Also, follow my Facebook page Drei’s Stadium Journeys .

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Malone Stadium 500 Warhawk Way Monroe, LA 71203 Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks website Malone Stadium website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 30,427 Soaring in Monroe JPS Field at Malone Stadium opened in 1978, and is named after the winningest coach in ULM football history. The stadium originally held 20K fans, but has been expanded several times since its construction, and currently seats 30,427. The most recent renovation occurred in 2014, when JPS Aviation/JPS Equipment Rental paid for the installation of FieldTurf here, in exchange for naming rights of the field for 8 seasons. ULM’s athletic teams were previously known as the Indians, but due to NCAA policy, the university voted to change the mascot to the Warhawks in 2006. The new mascot honors Louisiana-raised Major General Claire Lee Chennault, who commanded the Flying Tigers squadron of P-40s in China during WWII. Though most of ULM’s mascot imagery is bird themed, the mascot’s name is actually Ace, and he “flies” a P-40 styled car onto the field during pre-game when the players come on. Food & Beverage 3 Malone Stadium’s concessions have about what you would expect from a football venue of this size, but the stands do sell alcohol, which is uncommon at college stadiums. Food options include hot dogs, frito pie, pizza, nachos, peanuts, pretzels, popcorn, chips, Cracker Jack, Dippin’ Dots, and boxed candy, and the prices are on the low end; food items range from $2 up to $6. All food items are sold at the main stands, except pizza, which comes from specialty stands from Johnny’s Pizza House. Drink options at the main stands include bottled water, PowerAde, and Coke products in bottles, at a cost of between $3 and $4. Alcohol is available from separate stands, including beer and mixed drinks. Beer is only $4, and selections include Bud, Bud Light, Coors Light, and Michelob Ultra. Atmosphere 3 Malone Stadium has grandstands on both the east and west sides, with plazas and seating for alums and donors behind each end zone. The two grandstands are not really connected, so pay attention to where you are seated so you can park closer to the one you need – the east side has the student section, the west side has the reserved section, and both sides have general admission. Almost all of the seats in Malone Stadium are aluminum benches without backs, but there are some chair back seats on the west side in the first few rows of the upper deck, and in the upper middle section of the lower deck. The stadium doesn’t often get very full, so there isn’t always a ton of crowd noise, but there is some fun entertainment, and the field itself has some great décor. The playing surface is nicely done, with the Warhawks bird head logo in the center of the field and next to every yard marker. In addition, there are talons marking the kickoff spots on both ends of the field; this is a lot more on-field décor than most football stadiums bother with, and is a nice touch. The mascot “flies” a P-40 esque car onto the field when the team comes on, which is fun to watch (see the video below). In addition, the staff shows animated video throughout the game of a Warhawks plane “shooting down” the other teams in the conference; this bird vs. plane dual imagery for the mascot really creates a great contrast. The staff does the typical fan participation events during breaks in the action, such as the Dairy Queen race between fans dressed as a blizzard and an ice cream cone. Neighborhood 3 Malone Stadium is nestled inside the loops of the Bayou DeSiard waterway, and is not far from the Ouachita River, so there are plenty of Cajun-styled seafood restaurants nearby. The closest is Waterfront Grill, which is just across the DeSiard from the stadium, but there are also several a few miles away in the waterfront area next to the Ouachita, including Mohawk Seafood Tavern and Warehouse No 1. Any of these would be a great place to have a bite before or after the game. If you plan to be in town for the weekend, there are several hotels along I-20 to the south of the stadium. Courtyard and TownePlace Suites are the nicest ones, and have reasonable rates, but there are some cheaper ones in the same area if you are on a tighter budget. Fans 2 Unfortunately not a lot of fans come to games at Malone Stadium. On average the venue will draw between 12K and 13K, which is less than half full, and attendance tends to get lower as the season progresses. The best attendance tends to occur during games against in-state opponents (either FCS or FBS) at the beginning of the season, so if you have a choice try for one of those – attendance at games versus big-name opponents (think Power 5) seems to actually be lower than games against non-Power 5 schools. The fans that do come tend to wear team gear, and cheer loudly for their team, but the stadium also tends to clear out before the 4th quarter. Access 4 Malone Stadium is very easy to get to, being not far at all from I-20, and you can park very close to the venue for only $10. There are also plenty of bathrooms and concessions stands, so you will never see any lines. The stands on the east side are easier to get in and out of, because that side has several short sets of stairs spaced evenly along its length, while the west side only has long winding ramps, one on each end, which take a little time more to get up and down. On the plus side, those with special needs will have easy access, but should plan to sit on the west side only. The only potential downside is that the two grandstands are completely separated, so if you want to try and move around during the game it won’t be easy. Also note that the staff does monitor the stands very carefully, so you won’t be able to get into a section you don’t have a ticket for, even though the stadium will have a lot of empty seats. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to games at Malone Stadium start at $26 for adult general admission (upper deck), and max out at $46 for chair backs in the lower level. Youth tickets are $13, and students get in free, but can buy guest tickets for non-student friends for only $11, so if you know any ULM students you could save some money that way. The above ticket prices are slightly on the high side for similarly-sized college football venues, but are reasonable given the experience, which includes some fun entertainment like the mascot’s P-40 car. Personally, I would not spend the extra money for lower-level seats, though, because at such a small venue it is actually easier to see the field from further away. Either way, considering the low cost concessions and cheap parking, this is a very good experience for the money. Extras 3 The dual bird/P-40 mascot is very cool, especially given the strong ties to WWII in Louisiana (the National WWII museum is actually down in New Orleans, in part due to the fact that factories there produced many of the landing craft used in the D-Day invasion). Another plus is the playing surface, which has some pops of color and decoration, unlike what you’ll see at most other venues. Final Thoughts As mentioned before, the best time to see a game at Malone Stadium is early in the season against an in-state opponent if possible. While it may not look quite as modern or have as much crowd noise as some of the other football stadiums in the area, it nevertheless offers some unique elements, and should be a fun time.