Courtesy of NYCFC New York City FC  (NYCFC) is entering a transformative phase as it prepares for its new home, Etihad Park, set to enhance both the club and the Major League Soccer  (MLS) landscape starting in the summer of 2027. This stadium, which will seat approximately 25,000 fans, is strategically located adjacent to Citi Field  in Queens and represents a new era for the club, aligning its operations with upcoming major events like the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics . Key Changes to the MLS Schedule and NYCFC's Transition The 2027-2028 MLS season marks a significant shift in the league's calendar. Starting in 2027, MLS will transition to a summer-to-spring schedule to sync with international leagues. This means the upcoming season will feature a 14-game transition period from February to May 2027, before the full new schedule begins. During this short transition season, NYCFC will continue to host their home games at Yankee Stadium  and Citi Field, following years of doubleheaders in these venues since the club's inception in 2015. CEO Brad Sims expressed anticipation for the new chapter, emphasizing the importance of allowing fans a full season to experience Etihad Park. The aim is to open the stadium at the start of the regular season in summer 2027, allowing for full fan engagement and celebration of the move. Olympic and World Cup Implications Notably, Etihad Park has earned recognition as a host venue for the 2028 Olympic soccer tournaments . This will mark the first Olympic events held in New York City, and Sims stated that it would not be appropriate to host Olympic soccer anywhere else in the city without it being in their new facility. Additionally, the stadium has been included in the bid package for the 2031 Women’s World Cup , further establishing NYCFC as a prominent player in the international soccer landscape. The club aims to host high-profile soccer events long after the Olympics conclude, solidifying its status within the global soccer community. Shortened Season and Final Matches Ahead of New Stadium Opening NYCFC has been designated to play its shortest season yet, featuring home matches solely split between Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, leading into the 2027-28 MLS season . This strategic decision is made to celebrate the final matches at these iconic venues while constructing the atmosphere needed for the inaugural matches at Etihad Park. As the club prepares for this transition, it will host test events to ensure everything is ready for the stadium's grand opening. This careful planning will culminate in an opening that reflects the significance of the occasion for both the club and its supporters. Courtesy of NYCFC As NYCFC gears up for the future, the anticipated opening of Etihad Park heralds a new era alongside major events like the Olympic soccer tournament and potential Women’s World Cup 2031 matches. The club's efforts to provide its fans with a dedicated soccer-specific venue exemplify a significant evolution for Major League Soccer as it transitions into a globally recognized league. With these developments, both NYCFC and MLS are positioned to elevate their status in the world of soccer substantially.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Joe Cannon Stadium 7611 Ridge Chapel Rd Hanover, MD 21076 Notre Dame Maryland Gators website Joe Cannon Stadium website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 1,500 One Of The Gators Homes Notre Dame of Maryland University is a Catholic liberal arts college located in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1873. It is right next door to the “Evergreen” campus of Loyola University Maryland (which shares a library facility). It was formerly an all-women’s college, but that ended in 2023 as it is now co-ed. The university has over 3000 students. The original name of the school was the Notre Dame of Maryland Preparatory School and Collegiate Institute. It also spent many years with the College of Notre Dame of Maryland name. In 2011, the school attained university status with the addition of several graduate-level programs. Notre Dame’s athletic teams are members of Division III of the NCAA. All sports but swimming compete within the United East Conference. Although the swim team does not compete within a conference, it participates in the yearly Old Dominion Athletic Conference swim championships. The university’s sports teams are known as the Gators. The baseball team is very new to collegiate competition. Joe Cannon Stadium is one of three home bases for the team at this time. They also play home games at Harford Community College and the Ripken Experience in Aberdeen, both in Harford County, Maryland. When Joe Cannon Stadium was opened in 1990, the area was not very developed. Since then, this area has been the center of rapid growth and development. The large Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland Live Casino are nearly across the street from the stadium. BWI Airport is also located nearby, and the sight of airplanes taking off is not uncommon. Joe Cannon Stadium is also home to the Coppin State baseball program. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options available for a Gators baseball game. A concession stand exists at Joe Cannon Stadium but is not used during Notre Dame Maryland games.  No soda nor snack machines are located here either. Atmosphere 2 The seating section sits pretty high off of the field, which limits fan participation. And that is if there are fans at the game. The atmosphere is almost non-existent, although a PA announcer does keep you into the game with announcements and music played between players. The seats are metal bleachers with no backing. It may be worth it to go all the way to the top of the stands so that you will have a better view of your seat, but you will be a bit further from the action. Many of the fans do not even sit in the stands, but bring their own chair to sit along the chain link fence along the foul lines. This may offer a bit more interesting view than in the main grandstand. The stadium did have a recent renovation that added an artificial turf field and other player amenities. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is located back in the woods, but is across from a thriving development. Arundel Mills Mall is very popular, so much so that parking can be difficult at times. The addition of the Maryland Live Casino adds to the popularity of the area. Luckily, the casino has added a large parking garage to alleviate some parking problems. Food options are varied. The closest options are within walking distance across parking lots. Subway and The Greene Turtle are close and offer options for both carry-out and eat-in. The Greene Turtle has a diverse menu, offering more intriguing options, including everything from Raspberry Turkey Flatbread to a more usual bar food menu. They also offer many happy hour foods and drink specials at the bar. There are so many other food options in the area, from standard fast food fare to upscale restaurants at the casino. There are a few hotels also in the area, with ALoft and Element located within walking distance of Joe Cannon Stadium. Fans 2 The fans at the stadium are clearly family and friends only. I would doubt there are ever many student fans in attendance unless they know someone playing. The stadium is too far removed from their campus. Access 3 Joe Cannon Stadium is near most of the large highways in the area, such as I-295, I-95, and Maryland Route 100. So access is technically very good. The abundance of highways does not tell the whole story. The traffic around Arundel Mills Mall can be stifling. You can expect to sit through many lights just to make simple and small turns. Weekend games will be worse than weekday games. Plan your trips accordingly, as you may need to be patient for the simplest of rides. Parking at the stadium is plentiful and free. Return on Investment 4 Games are free to attend, and there are no other costs associated with the stadium, so the value for the fans is very good. If a good local team is in town, or one of the powerhouse programs is playing, fans will be rewarded with some good baseball skills with very little investment. Extras 1 The large water tower located beyond the left field wall is an interesting sight to see at a baseball game. It may not be the Green Monster or the Camden Yards Warehouse, but it gives fans at Joe Cannon Stadium an interesting view. Final Thoughts The stadium is an enjoyable place to watch a game, especially for being free. You will not be wowed by the field, nor probably the talent level, but it can offer a good option away from the crowded shopping environment located nearby. A good option for many fans is to drop those of their party who wish to shop at the mall while others take in a game.

Photo Courtesy of Gophersports.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Siebert Field 516 15th Ave SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 Minnesota Golden Gophers website Siebert Field website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 1,420 Golden Gopher Baseball at Siebert Field Tucked behind the football team's practice facility, with a view of TCF Bank Stadium off in the distance from right field, sits Siebert Field. The home of the Golden Gopher baseball team isn't the most salient athletic facility at the University of Minnesota, but it is definitely worth a visit. Reconstructed in 2012, Siebert features an artificial turf field, a state-of-the-art scoreboard, and plenty of seating, including grassy hills to watch the game. It is a wonderful experience for baseball fans, perfect for an afternoon out with family or friends without the hectic crowds of a big-time football game. In short, Minnesota Gopher baseball may be the most overlooked sporting event in the Twin Cities. Food & Beverage 3 There is nothing too special about the food offered at Siebert Field. Soda, hot dogs, and hamburgers are offered for economical prices. There is only a single stand, but there is never a line, so you can feel free to meander over there and grab some food whenever you feel hungry. The lack of offerings is hardly a problem, however, as most games are played at 3:00 pm, in between meals. There are also plenty of other places to grab lunch or dinner in nearby Dinkytown or downtown Minneapolis. Atmosphere 4 There is a lot of off-campus housing behind the field, which gives students the ability to get home in time to finish studying or socialize immediately after the game. And because the other athletic facilities are nearby, athletes from various sports will drop by before or after practice to support their fellow Gophers. With the mix of students and families, there is a great age range in the fan base, making it comfortable for just about anyone to fit in among the crowd. The scoreboard at Siebert Field offers a couple of clean, interesting graphics in right field as well as videos of staff members interviewing players on the team. It is a clear scoreboard that can easily be seen anywhere in the park. All the action is up close and personal. It is a great way to introduce someone to the game because they are not forced to squint to differentiate between a slider and a curveball, and you can catch the interactions between the players and coaches. Neighborhood 3 For college students, the neighborhood is great. Dinkytown has plenty of places that college students love to eat at: McDonald's, Jimmy John's, Cane's Chicken, as well as bars and house parties to attend after the game. Unfortunately, for people who have already graduated, you have to get back on the freeway again and head downtown to get away from the college scene. College students almost exclusively occupy the two closest bars, The Library and Blarney's, as well as many of the nearby restaurants. Although it is not located in a "college town" like Madison or Columbus, the U of M does a good job of giving Dinkytown a "college feel." While it may be charming to some people, others may be turned off because you have to drive a way to find somewhere to eat or drink after the game. If you want a more formal meal in Minneapolis, the Keys Cafe in the Foshay Tower is centrally located and offers a good meal. For Italian, go to Pizza Luce, which is universally known as the best pizza in town. It's also worth checking out plays at the Guthrie or Orpheum Theatres, a standup routine at the Acme Comedy Club, or listening to some live music at the First Avenue Club. For a more lively bar scene, Sneaky Pete's is a must-see. Brothers or Bar 508, located right next door, will be more appealing if you want to sit down and relax. There is plenty of lodging off the 11th Street exit from Highway 94, with the Hilton being an economic option and the Marquette as probably the best value. Fans 4 There is nowhere to watch the game in the outfield, but fans pack the hills on either side of the diamond and the seats behind home plate. For the most part, people talk among themselves for most of the game, occasionally stopping to cheer on a specific player. This is not to say that they are not engaged. During pivotal plays in the game, people get loud or express disappointment depending on what happens, but it is certainly more subdued throughout the game than it is at a professional contest. Depending on what you are looking for, this can be positive or negative. A professional contest has more displays to keep fans vocal through all nine innings, but the collegiate game is a relaxing way to spend a lazy afternoon. Access 3 Getting to the athletic facilities, which are all pretty much located in the same area, is not difficult. The University of Minnesota is located right off of 35W, the main freeway that runs north to south, and the entire campus is well marked. Unfortunately, actually finding Siebert Field can be difficult. It is not recognized on Google Maps and has two addresses on many places online. The address I used was 516 15th Ave. SE and it brought me to the right location, but the field is tucked behind the practice facility. The best way to find it is to look for the foul pole, which isn't that hard to see, but can be passed over if you're not looking for it. The streets in Dinkytown occasionally run one way, so you'll have to take one route in and another one out, but the main streets run parallel to each other, and it's not hard to find the freeway on your way out. You do have to park along a dirt road on the side of the stadium, however, and may want to park a ways away to avoid having your sunroof shattered by a foul ball. The walk isn't that difficult, and parking is free, but it can be difficult to find the first time around. Also of note: Do not park by the apartment buildings. This can be tempting, because there are often open spots on the weekends, but you will get towed. Return on Investment 5 As long as you don't eat at the game, it's a pretty cheap ordeal all around. Tickets are about $5, parking is free, and games usually do not interfere with mealtime. (There is a Dugout Club for people who want to support the university; the largest package goes for $1000, the smallest is $8.00, and you get your own seating area and barbecue.) In general, because prices are so low and the quality of baseball, along with the experience, is pretty good, going to a Gopher baseball game is quite a bargain. Extras 3 There are not a lot of bells and whistles to be found at Siebert Field, but three things stand out to me that make the experience unique. For starters, the scoreboard display is well done. The graphics are fun and unique, it provides vital stats on players and can be easily seen from all over the field. Some cameramen film various members of the crowd, which creates an interesting dynamic in such an intimate atmosphere. Secondly, Goldie the Gopher runs around, interacting with children. And the kids absolutely go nuts. In fact, I overheard one profess his love for the furry forest critter. That, in and of itself, was worth going to the game for. Finally, there are places to view the game from the roof of the nearby apartments. No, it's not Wrigley, but it is still fun to see that people in the surrounding area are so engaged by the action on the field that they're willing to scramble up a set of stairs to see the game from a long distance. Final Thoughts It's a little out of the way, a little quiet at times, and a little less crowded than the average sporting event, but that's the joy of Gopher baseball. You can go and just watch the game. There are a few distractions, the cost is pretty cheap, and the quality of the players is pretty high. It's a nice little getaway right in the middle of everything, which is probably what makes it so special.

Photo By Steven Kee There was once a distinct weight to anticipation. It lived in your wallet for weeks, a stiff piece of cardstock with a glossy finish, perhaps a holographic strip, and the date of a game printed in bold, industrial ink. Today, that weight has vanished. The ritual of "holding your tickets" has been replaced by a frantic thumb-swipe to refresh a QR code in a stadium parking lot. While digital ticketing offers undeniable convenience, we’ve traded a tangible piece of history for a temporary pixel on a screen. The Ticket Stub as a Time Machine For decades, ticket stubs were the physical receipts of our lives. They weren’t just entry passes; they were artifacts. The Sensory Experience:  The "snap" of the cardstock, the perforated edge being torn by a ticket taker, and the act of tucking it safely away. The Memory Anchor:  Years later, finding a 1998 playoff stub in a shoebox doesn’t just remind you of the score; it brings back the smell of the stadium popcorn and the person you sat next to. The Aesthetic:  Every team had a brand. The fonts, the colors, and the player photography on the ticket were part of the event's visual identity. The Collection:  Stubs displayed in a scrapbook, in a shoebox, or even in a frame. From Pocket Schedules to Search Bars It wasn't just the tickets. The magnetic fridge schedule and the foldable pocket calendar were staples of fandom. The Fridge Shrine:  The magnetic schedule was a seasonal centerpiece in homes, a constant visual reminder of "who we play next." With past years and teams still hanging on to the fridge to remind us of good times. The Utility:  You didn't "look up" the game time; you knew it because the schedule was a physical fixture in your environment. However, if you couldn’t remember, you had a pocket schedule that usually wound up in your wallet. “A wallet in your pocket? What’s that?” In the digital age, information is "pull" rather than "push." We have to go looking for it. While we have more data at our fingertips than ever, we’ve lost the passive, constant connection that a physical schedule provides to the rhythm of a season. The Rise of the "NFT" and "Souvenir Print" Recognizing this loss, some teams have begun offering "Commemorative Tickets" for an extra fee—a tacit admission that a QR code is a poor substitute for a memory. Others are turning to NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to create "digital stubs," but for many fans, a blockchain entry doesn't carry the same soul as a piece of paper with a crease down the middle. Memories on a Shelf Gone to the Cloud The era of hefty, ink-scented sports media guides and yearbooks is rapidly fading as organizations pivot toward a fully digital landscape. Once indispensable staples for journalists and fans, these printed volumes are being replaced by dynamic, real-time platforms that offer immediate updates on roster changes and statistics, data that previously became obsolete the moment a player was injured or traded.  Beyond the sheer speed of information, the transition is driven by significant cost savings on printing and distribution, as well as the ability to embed interactive multimedia as highlight reels and social media feeds directly into the content. While some collectors still value the tactile nostalgia of a physical book, most college and professional programs have embraced digital-first strategies to meet the demands of a smartphone-reliant audience and reduce their environmental footprint by allowing it all to be stored in the cloud. Leagues & Teams are Getting Rid of it All The shift toward a paperless fan experience is nearly universal across major leagues, with the NFL leading the way by mandating fully digital ticketing for all 32 teams to enhance security and fan communication.  In college athletics, major programs like Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin have eliminated printed media guides and yearbooks, a move that saves tens of thousands of dollars annually while transitioning to interactive digital publications.  Similarly, the MLB replaced its long-standing "Green" and "Red" books with digital alternatives, and teams like the Miami Heat and San Francisco Giants have largely phased out physical stubs and schedules in favor of mobile-app integration.  Even iconic sports magazines have followed suit; for instance, The Sporting News ended its century-long print run to become a digital-only entity. While some teams, like the Buffalo Bills, still offer souvenir tickets for collectors, the functional "pocket" version of schedules and guides has effectively been consigned to history. Why It Matters The move to digital is driven by efficiency, data collection, and the elimination of fraud. These are logical, corporate wins. However, sports are fundamentally illogical and emotional. We care about the "stuff" because we care about the moments. When we lose the ticket stub, we lose the "I was there" evidence that we can hold in our hands. We are moving toward a world where our greatest memories live exclusively in the cloud—convenient to access, but impossible to touch.

Courtesy of the NLBM.com The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum  (NLBM), located in Kansas City , Missouri, is a vital institution dedicated to preserving the rich history of African American baseball. Recently, the museum has announced an extensive $53 million expansion, marking a significant milestone in honoring this incredible legacy. Historical Significance and Neighborhood Revival Established in 1990, the NLBM has played a crucial role not just in educating the public about the Negro Leagues but also in revitalizing the historic 18th and Vine District, which has deep cultural roots tied to African American history. This area was the site where the Negro National League was founded in 1920, and the new expansion will connect the museum to the Paseo YMCA , the very birthplace of the league. Postcard Circa 1920, of the then-called “Colored Y.M.C.A” In February 1920, team owners led by Andrew “Rube” Foster met at the Paseo YMCA in Kansas City to establish the Negro National League, the first successful professional league for Black baseball players, chosen for its vibrant Black community and the YMCA's role as a haven for leadership and empowerment. The Negro Leagues opened doors for Black athletes barred from Major League Baseball due to segregation, showcasing exceptional talent and innovative play while laying the groundwork for baseball's eventual integration. Among the league's legendary teams, the Kansas City Monarchs emerged as a powerhouse, producing some of the greatest players in baseball history. The expansion aims to create a new museum facility alongside a hotel, making it likely the first majority Black-owned hotel in Kansas City since the historic Street Hotel closed in 1960. This initiative is part of a larger effort to rejuvenate the neighborhood, including new housing developments and the renovation of historical sites like the Boone Theater. Features of the Expansion The planned expansion includes 30,000 square feet of new space, which will allow for additional exhibitions and educational programming. Notably, the museum's president, Bob Kendrick, emphasized the importance of this project in not only honoring the players who shaped baseball but also in strengthening the community economically. Specific features of the expansion include: Increased exhibition space for showcasing the achievements of Negro League players. The Buck O'Neil Education and Research Center is designed to enhance educational initiatives. A hotel named "The Pennant," in homage to the Kansas City Monarchs, highlights the connection between the past and the present. This development represents a profound community investment and aligns with efforts to re-establish the cultural identity of Kansas City. Kendrick remarked, “This museum is doing for this area what Negro League Baseball did for many urban communities across the country.” Community Involvement and Funding In conjunction with its expansion efforts, the NLBM has initiated a $35 million capital campaign to secure the necessary funds. Local leaders and residents are encouraged to participate, helping to foster a sense of communal ownership and responsibility for the project's success. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas reiterated the importance of these developments, linking them to a broader narrative of investment in Black communities across America. "We are the ship that is investing and truly rebuilding our Black communities in Kansas City and around the world," he stated during the announcement. Future Outlook The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum expansion not only aims to honor the significant contributions of African American athletes but also seeks to breathe new life into the 18th and Vine District. As the area evolves and revitalizes, the museum stands at the forefront, ensuring the legacy of the Negro Leagues remains alive for future generations. The project’s completion will enhance both educational opportunities and tourism, ultimately shaping a prosperous future for the community and its historical narrative. The NLBM’s expansion serves as a testament to the enduring impact of the Negro Leagues, celebrating a critical chapter in American history while paving the way for continued growth. This expansion is more than an architectural project; it is a movement to reclaim and celebrate the culture of African American baseball within the context of the broader narrative of racial equity and social justice in America. As the museum transitions into a new chapter, it invites both the community and visitors to partake in honoring a legacy that changed baseball and, by extension, American society.

Photos by Gregory Koch and Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 John B. Schuerholz Park 7500 Osler Dr Towson, MD 21252 Towson Tigers website John B. Schuerholz Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 500 Towson Tigers at Schuerholz Park Towson University is the second-largest public university in the State of Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 students, of which 18,000 are undergraduates. In 2014, the Towson football team played for the Football Championship Subdivision National Championship, falling short to North Dakota State. The basketball team has also had scattered success over the years, most notably in the early 1990s under coach Terry Truax, with guards Kurk Lee and Devin Boyd in the old East Coast Conference. The Truax-led teams made it to two straight NCAA tournaments in 1990 and 1991. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, 15-time ECAC Champions, and 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. Baseball has had some success over the years. But recently it has come close to being axed by the university. Only some last-minute donations and an agreement with the state kept the program alive. John B. Schuerholz Park is named after the 1962 graduate of what was then Towson State College. You may know the Baltimore native more as the former General Manager and President of the Atlanta Braves. Food & Beverage 2 There is a simple concession stand located at the base of Schuerholz Park. The menu is not very deep, but the value is decent. Fans can always bring their outside food as no one will stop them. For many weekday games the stand will not be open. Atmosphere 3 Baseball was played on this site before 2001. But the creation of Schuerholz Park made it official. The simple bleacher-laden grandstand extends between the dugouts, and behind the home plate area. Many fans also like to sit on the hill next to nearby Burdick Hall. You have a great view of the field from there and will not be obstructed by netting. There is also another unique place to watch a game. Towson University has beefed up the walking path towards the West Village part of the campus. West Village is where many residence halls exist, so there has been a need to make this path safer, including a wide footbridge across busy Osler Drive. The eastern end of this bridge sits right next to Schuerholz Park and it offers a raised platform to watch baseball games. There is a PA system and announcements and music are played. Free roster sheets are given out at the stadium. Former Orioles player Billy Hunter was at one time the Tiger's head coach and brought many game-day traditions over from the Baltimore club, so expect to experience some recognizable themes and music at the game. The stadium also sits right at the corner of Towsontown Boulevard and Osler Drive. The main view past the outfield wall is the traffic at that intersection. Luckily the general view is not all that unattractive as there are plenty of green trees there as well. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing right by the stadium, except for the University Union. Towson is a semi-urban environment with a large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Fans 2 Fans at Schuerholz Park tend to primarily be family or friends of the players. What this means is that weekend and later afternoon games will be busier than early afternoon weekday games. In weekday games you will more likely get students stopping in and watching a game on their way to class or back to the dorm. It also means you will see an inconsistent level of fan interaction. The fans who do attend care about the game and are very knowledgeable. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Towsontown Boulevard location of the baseball field. There are a couple of large parking garages nearby, with the Union Garage right behind the stadium. Parking is plentiful, but expect an issue on weekday games. Return on Investment 4 The price, free, is certainly reasonable. And you will probably not have to pay for parking. So, the value is certainly good. The team plays Division I baseball in a very strong athletic conference (Coastal Athletic Association or CAA) so there is an opportunity to see some very strong baseball talent at a low cost. Extras 2 There are free programs at the stadium. There are no other extras at the stadium, but one should walk around the campus of Towson University and see the ever-growing campus. Just don’t forget the older parts of campus, especially the hidden outdoor gem called the Glen. Once hidden after many years of neglect, this wonderful outdoor area has picnic groves and interesting spaces for exploration. Final Thoughts John B. Schuerholz Park is a pretty simple baseball stadium. But the low cost of attendance at a game with a good level of talent means that this baseball stadium is a good value for the fan.

Courtesy of FIFA The world of sports mascots in 2026 has moved far beyond simple plush costumes, evolving into a sophisticated intersection of cultural representation, digital gaming, and high-tech biomimicry. From the global stage of the FIFA World Cup to the winter slopes of Milan-Cortina, mascots are now "Gen Z" icons and playable digital heroes. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Trio For the first time in history, the FIFA World Cup features a trio of mascots to represent its three host nations. Unveiled in September 2025, these characters are designed with a vibrant 3D animation style: Clutch the Bald Eagle (USA):  A midfielder wearing the U.S. blue away kit, symbolized by the official national bird. The bald eagle has been at the center of the Great Seal since 1782. An act of Congress, signed by President Joe Biden in 2024, made the bald eagle the official national bird. Maple the Moose (Canada):  A goalkeeper in the red home kit, inspired by the national symbol and the country’s vast territories.   The mascot also draws inspiration from Canada’s maple leaf, which is the country’s national symbol. Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico):  A striker in the nation’s green home strip, drawing on ancient Mayan significance of strength and bravery.   Ancient civilizations of Mexico, such as the Maya, bestowed huge significance upon the jaguar, linking it to the underworld and symbolizing strength and bravery.  In a technological first, these mascots are central to a "licensed title video game" called FIFA Heroes , where they are playable characters alongside football legends. They also feature in FIFA Super League Soccer on Roblox to engage younger audiences. 2026 Winter Olympics: The "Gen Z" Mascots Courtesy of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) The 2026 Winter Games  in Milan-Cortina introduced Milo and Tina, a pair of sibling stoats (short-tailed weasels). Milo (Paralympic):  Represents the mountains and was born without a leg, using his tail for mobility. Tina (Olympic): Represents the big city and the Olympic spirit. The “FLO”:  All six of the Flo snowdrops are small in stature and inspired by Galanthus flowers. They’re all anthropomorphic and stylized as humanoid creatures. The mascots were professionally drawn based on an open contest that invited primary and secondary school students in Italy to submit ideas for the mascots. Organizers have dubbed them the "first openly Gen Z mascots," reflecting a shift toward more relatable, spirited personalities. Beyond their cuteness, they have inspired "biomimicry" research in soft robotics and adaptive materials, mimicking the stoat's ability to change its coat color from brown to white for winter. From Child Drawing to Digital Controversy: Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Mascot Courtesy of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Ayo, the official mascot of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, is a vibrant young lion whose design originated from the imagination of 16-year-old Ndeye Mariama Diop. Selected from nearly 500 entries in a nationwide Senegalese competition, Diop’s original hand-drawn concept blends cultural heritage with a modern, youthful spirit.  The digitized version of the mascot features Ayo wearing a traditional Tingandé hat, a symbol of wisdom from the Fulani people, and carrying a djembe drum. While the name "Ayo"—meaning "joy" in Yoruba—was proposed by 18-year-old Ndeye Khady Cristal Coumbassa, it is Diop’s artistic vision that serves as the visual face of the first Olympic event to be held on African soil.  Although the official digitization of the drawing faced some online scrutiny regarding the use of AI in its final promotional rendering, the character remains a celebrated symbol of the "joyful and courageous soul" of African youth.   Social Trends and Cultural Evolution of the Mascot The mascot landscape is also reflecting broader societal shifts: Retirement of Native Imagery:  Organizations such as the  National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)  continue to successfully advocate for the retirement of unsanctioned Native-themed mascots at both the professional and K-12 levels. Economic Impact:  Top-tier professional mascots are now high-earning professionals, with tenured performers earning upward of $100,000 per year plus appearance bonuses. Fan Engagement Power:  Mascots like the Rocket City Trash Pandas Sprocket have become local icons, driving massive merchandise sales and competing for national titles like "Best Minor League Mascot" as of March 2026. For Gen Z, sports fandom is less about team loyalty and more about authentic storytelling, connecting with athletes' individual personalities and personal liv es through social-first, bite-sized content. In response, sports mascots have evolved from goofy sideline performers into digital-first influencers like Benny the Bull, using TikTok memes and high-fashion "drip" to build relatable, autonomous brands that resonate with both kids and adults.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Vibrant Arena at The MARK 1201 River Dr. Moline, IL 61265 Quad City Storm website Vibrant Arena at The MARK website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 12,000 Still, the Mark in the Quad City Vibrant Arena at The MARK, known previously as TaxSlayer Center, iWireless Center, and The MARK of Quad Cities, opened in May 1993 under the name Mark of the Quad Cities. Its current name went into effect in September of 2017 for $3.3 million for over ten years. The 9,200-seat facility is located in Moline, Illinois, and was constructed at $33.4 million. Since 2018, the arena has been home to the Quad City Storm of the SPHL after local ownership consisting of Ryan Mosley and John Dawson purchased a team in the league to replace the recently departed Quad City Mallards of the ECHL. The Storm kept hockey alive on the banks of the Mississippi River and hopes to bring back the success of its days as the original Mallards franchise. The original Mallards hockey club operated from 1995 to 2007 in the Colonial and Central Hockey Leagues, ceasing operations to make room for the Quad City Flames of the American Hockey League, who operated for two seasons before being relocated by the parent club to Abbotsford, British Columbia. With the Quad City suddenly vacant, the Mallards were reborn in the CHL in 2009. The new Mallards were saved from folding again in 2011 and operated in the league until being absorbed into the ECHL for the 2014-2015 season after the CHL ceased operations. In 2017, the club signed a multi-year affiliation with the NHL Vegas Golden Knights and its AHL affiliate Chicago Wolves, for the 2017–18 season. However, after the ownership reported that it lost $4 million in five years, the club ceased operations. The arena offers the perfect size for a minor league hockey arena, and the surrounding neighborhood provides enough activities for both families and weekend getaways with friends for a night of fun and excitement. Food & Beverage 3 The arena has an abundance of menu options, from pizza, spicy chicken sandwiches, pulled pork, hot dogs, and hamburgers. The potato bar at the Brewhouse Lounge & Patio offers tailor-made potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, or barbecue brisket for $6. The lounge is a nice place to hang out with large windows overlooking downtown and pints of Green Tree Brewery for $7.25. If you like the usual, enjoy domestic for $6.75, imports for $6.50, mixed drinks for $6, and Woodbridge wines for $7. Pepsi products are available throughout the arena. Atmosphere 3 The seating area is broken into two sections in a horseshoe shape configuration. The views are unobstructed due to the absence of a middle scoreboard hovering above the ice, and there is not a bad seat in the arena. The team has banners of previous championships won by the Mallards, along with the retired numbers of four former players. There is one large video screen at the end of the arena that posts scores, information, and other activities for the audience, similar to the setup at the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio. The concourse offers a stand with team merchandise and a 50/50 raffle adjacent to the stand. A larger team store is located downstairs inside the main lobby of the arena. The colors of teal and purple give the main concourse a 1990’s feel, but it is spacious, clean, and wraps around the entire building. The nightly promotions offer $1 beers on Wednesdays, $2 beers and hot dogs on Fridays, and $1 sodas and post-game skating on Sundays. There are also 19 promotional nights throughout the season, including Teddy Bear Toss, Vegas Trip Giveaway, Post-Game Fireworks, and Pucks and Paws Night. The team also employs the Mallards Bud Ice Girls, who perform during the night at intermission. Neighborhood 4 The arena is located in Moline, Illinois, which makes up 25% of the Quad Cities, with neighboring Rock Island down the street and Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa, across the Mississippi River. The distances between these four cities are relatively close, and all offer a little bit of everything to enjoy before or after the game. The John Deere Pavilion is across the street from the arena, offering interactive exhibits from the company’s history. The Rock Island Arsenal Museum has been in operation since 1862 and features an impressive amount of weaponry. The Jumer’s Casino and Isle Casino are two great ways to spend the night without the kids. There are also a few great places to eat within a few blocks of the arena, including Nico’s Hispanic Fusion, offering cuisine from various Latin American countries like mofongo, mondongo, and fried plantain sandwiches. Bent River Brewery has a fine selection of beers on tap: Mississippi Blonde, Jalapeno Pepper Ale, and seasonal favorites Sweet Potato Ale and Jingle Java Holiday Stout. Quad City is known for its style of pizza that is found at various locations, including Uncle Harris, Harris Pizza, and Pizza Shack. The style differs from varieties in Chicago and New York in that the dough is somewhat maltier and nuttier, and the pizza sauce is spicier. The pies are cut by large scissors into strips instead of slices to further add to their uniqueness. Fans 3 The Mallard fans have strong, loyal fans who have been with the team since its initial inception in 1995. There are plenty of younger fans out at the arena for a good time and cheering on goals and hits on the ice. Average attendance hovers above the 3,000 mark, and most weekend night games pack in the highest attendance figures. Access 4 The MARK sits along the Mississippi River and is easily accessible from I-80 and I-74; there are numerous parking lots adjacent to the arena that will run you no more than $5 a car. Once inside, there is plenty of room to roam around with concessions, restrooms, and exits marked inside the building. Mallards games do not necessarily draw capacity crowds, but a parking map can be useful just in case. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Mallards games start at $10 for upper-level seating, with $16, $20, $24, and $30 tickets rounding out the price points for each game. The closer you are to the ice, the higher you will pay for a ticket, and I would suggest thinking about the price that works best for you. The cost of parking is $5; you can also park on the street for free when applicable, and concession prices are affordable–loaded potatoes for $6 and craft beer for $6.75. Extras 3 An extra for the loaded baked potato, which seems to be popular in this part of the country. You do not usually find this type of cuisine at most sporting events, but Abby good way to fill you up during those cold winter nights at the old hockey game. Secondly, the downtown location along the Mississippi River provides fans easy access on foot to bars, hotels, restaurants, and the John Deere Pavilion. Whether you’re with family or friends, you should be able to entertain yourself while in the Quad Cities. Lastly, for dollar beers on Wednesday night. I have heard of Thirsty Thursdays, where dollar beers are the norm, but never on Wednesday night. I really cannot complain, since the beers are $2 on Friday nights.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Harford Stadium 401 Thomas Run Rd Bel Air, MD 21015 Harford Fighting Owls website Harford Stadium website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 1,000 The Fighting Owls of Bel Air Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. They play in NJCAA Division I, the highest athletic level for 2-year colleges, and are a part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. The Harford Stadium is in the same Thomas Run Park area as the Harford Varsity Baseball Field. and the Harford Varsity Softball Field. The nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena also opened in the last ten years. The stadium was built in 1968 and most recently updated with an artificial field turf surface in 2007. Harford has hosted various championship events at the stadium, including the NJCAA District H Men’s & Women’s Soccer Championships, NJCAA Region XX Championships, and the Maryland High School Men’s and Women’s Soccer All-Star Games. It has also been the host facility of the NJCAA Men's Lacrosse Championship. The Aberdeen Arsenal of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball played the 2000 season at the baseball fields at Thomas Run Park. The Arsenal departed to make room for the Aberdeen IronBirds, the affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles owned by Cal Ripken, Jr. Food & Beverage 1 There technically is no food offered at the Harford Stadium, but with the nearby Wawa convenience store a short walk down the paved path between fields, I count it as the field’s concession stand. The food offerings vary from hoagies, soup, quesadillas, and hot dogs. And the prices are better than most concession stands. Atmosphere 2 There is not much to Harford Stadium. There is a simple old-style set of seats, and that is pretty much it. There is some grass you could also sit on, but we did not see anyone do that. There is not much else in terms of atmosphere, as it is a JUCO-level lacrosse match. The team does have a PA announcer who also plays some music. Neighborhood 4 Harford Community College is in a suburban location and has plenty of free parking. The area is safe and has many restaurants nearby. Naughty Dogs is within walking distance and has a fun, cheap bar for pre and post-game refreshments, along with food such as pit beef. If you are in the mood for Mexican, La Tolteca is located just a brief distance away and is a consistently good food place. Travel into Bel Air, and there are multiple chain and local options. Zen 16 Sushi Cafe and MaGerks Pub & Grill are some great options. A quick drive in the other direction is Aberdeen. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe with Love is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. Super Chicken Rico is another choice with which you can’t go wrong. Fans 2 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. We did see some students, which is surprising for a non-residential community college. Access 4 Harford is located just a few miles off of I-95, one of the largest highways in the northeast. But State Route 22 can be very crowded with commuters traveling between Aberdeen Proving Grounds (APG) and central Harford County. APG has become a very large Army base after the last round of federal base realignment and closure activities. So leave some extra time getting to the campus. There is plenty of free parking. Towson University in Northeastern Maryland is a brand new extension campus of the well-established state university that recently opened across from the Harford campus. Return on Investment 3 The match we attended was $5 for the general public and free for students and staff. While parking is free, it seems that even the small amount of $5 is more than it needs to be. There is little reason to charge other than get some work experience for the students working the gate. The low cost of concessions at nearby Wawa does help in making it more reasonable. Extras 2 The Harford Sports Complex also has two softball fields. a baseball field, as well as a convertible field that can hold softball and/or baseball games. If you get a chance to peek into the nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena , it is worth a visit, as this is quite an impressive facility for a junior college. Final Thoughts The simple Harford Stadium does not necessarily impress, but it offers good sports action for the fans.

The Women’s Sports Network (WSN)  and the All Women’s Sports Network (AWSN)  are two significant platforms dedicated to broadcasting women's sports, emerging in a landscape that has historically marginalized and seen minimal coverage of female athletic events. Each network was founded with a unique vision and operational strategy, addressing the growing demand for visibility in women’s sports. WSN launched in November 2022, pioneered by industry leaders, including Carol Stiff, a longtime advocate for women’s sports and former VP at ESPN. Conversely, AWSN was co-founded by Whoopi Goldberg and George Chung in November 2024, with an aim to globally elevate women’s sports visibility. Contracted Leagues Both networks have formed partnerships with notable women's sports leagues: WSN has contracts with 12 professional leagues, including: WNBA ( Women’s National Basketball Association ) LPGA ( Ladies Professional Golf Association ) NWSL ( National Women’s Soccer League ) and others. AWSN boasts an impressive roster as well, covering leagues such as: UEFA ( Union of European Football Associations ) FIBA ( International Basketball Federation ) WFA ( Women’s Football Alliance ) WER ( Women’s Elite Rugby ) Athletes Unlimited, among others. Both networks aim to utilize their partnerships to broadcast live events and highlight athlete narratives, emphasizing the need for increased representation across platforms. Broadcasting Approaches WSN's Approach WSN operates as a 24-hour streaming service that focuses on the U.S. market, offering original programming alongside live broadcasts of women’s sports. Shows like “Game On” help engage audiences directly, supporting a growing culture around women's athletics. AWSN's Approach AWSN, in contrast, utilizes a free, advertising-supported streaming model primarily through Pluto TV, making it accessible in multiple countries including the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Its programming emphasizes robust international content, showcasing a wider array of sports, including unique features like Women’s European Cricket Championship and FIBA 3×3 basketball. Similarities and Differences Similarities Mission: Both networks aim to increase the visibility and recognition of female athletes, addressing historical inequities in sports broadcasting. Free Access: They focus on making content widely available; WSN through streaming services and AWSN through TV platforms like Pluto. Inclusive Content: Each network covers a multiplicity of sports, championing diversity in female athletics. Differences Founding Philosophy: WSN is driven by longstanding sports industry figures, while AWSN melds entertainment and sports by leveraging Whoopi Goldberg’s cultural influence. Content Production: WSN emphasizes original programming, while AWSN has a stronger focus on showcasing live events and global broadcasting partnerships. Geographic Focus: WSN primarily targets the U.S. market, whereas AWSN has a global approach that spans multiple continents and sports cultures. The Need for Two Networks The emergence of both WSN and AWSN reflects a growing demand for women's sports programming. As viewership for women’s events continues to rise, the need for dedicated platforms to cater to this audience has become essential. Historical data suggests that events like the 2023 Women’s World Cup and NCAA tournaments have drawn unprecedented viewership, underscoring the viability and demand for female-driven sports content. Availability and Access WSN can be accessed via major streaming platforms like Roku and Amazon Prime Video, while AWSN is prominently available on Pluto TV and various international platforms. This availability ensures that audiences can easily engage with women's sports, regardless of their location. The Women’s Sports Network and All Women’s Sports Network serve as crucial platforms in the evolving dynamic of women’s athletics, each offering distinctive approaches to broadcasting and engagement. Their ongoing impact reflects a cultural shift towards greater representation and celebration of female athletes in sports.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Harford Varsity Baseball Field 401 Thomas Run Rd Bel Air, MD 21015 Harford Fighting Owls website Harford Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 1,000 The Fighting Owls of Bel Air Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly in between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. They play in NJCAA Division I, the highest athletic level for 2-year colleges and are a part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. Having played on the fairly worn Thomas Run Park baseball field, Harford wanted to update its facilities. So in 2014 the college began an extensive remodel of the facility. The nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena also opened in the last few years. The Aberdeen Arsenal of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball played the 2000 season at Thomas Run Park. The Arsenal departed to make room for the Aberdeen IronBirds, the A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles owned by Cal Ripken, Jr. The University of Delaware used the Harford Baseball Field for many home games while their home Bob Hannah Stadium was being remodeled in 2014. Delaware has also often played against the University of Maryland here at Harford Varsity Baseball Field, since it is located nearly halfway between the two schools. Food & Beverage 1 There technically is no food offered at the Harford Varsity Baseball Field, but with the nearby Wawa convenience store a short walk down the paved path between fields, I count it as the field’s own concession stand. The food offerings vary from hoagies, soup, quesadillas, and hot dogs. And the prices are better than most concession stands. Atmosphere 2 The new grandstand is a very nice set of stands with seat backs that wrap from dugout to dugout. Those seats will be behind a netting. There are also older seating sections further down each line that is away from the netting. If you hate to watch a game through nets you may want to move over there, although you will not have seat backs. The field is an artificial surface. This includes the infield, which is artificial turf painted brown. Some true baseball fans may hate that, but it is understandable that a community college may want to keep maintenance cost down by using such a surface. There is not much else in terms of atmosphere as it is a JUCO level baseball game. The team does have a PA announcer and plays walkup music for players. Neighborhood 4 Harford Community College is in a suburban location and has plenty of free parking. The area is safe and has many restaurants nearby. Naughty Dogs is within walking distance and has a fun, cheap bar for pre and post-game refreshments, along with food such as pit beef. If you are in the mood for Mexican, La Tolteca is located just a brief distance away and is a consistently good food place. Travel into Bel Air and there are multiple chain and local options. Zen 16 Sushi Cafe and MaGerks Pub & Grill are some great options. A quick drive in the other direction is Aberdeen. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe with Love is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. Super Chicken Rico is another choice with which you can’t go wrong. Fans 2 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few local residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 Harford is located just a few miles off of I-95, one of the largest highways in the northeast. But State Route 22 can be very crowded with commuters traveling between Aberdeen Proving Grounds (APG) and central Harford County. APG has become a very large Army base after the last round of federal base realignment and closure activities. So leave some extra time getting to the campus. There is plenty of free parking. Towson University in Northeastern Maryland is a brand new extension campus of the well-established state university that recently opened across from the Harford campus. Return on Investment 5 Games are free to attend so the return on investment is pretty high. The low cost of concessions at nearby Wawa also make the cost to watch a good level of baseball game pretty high. Extras 2 The Harford Sports Complex also has two other softball fields, as well as a convertible field that can hold softball and/or baseball games. Harford Stadium, home to the school’s lacrosse and soccer teams is also located next door. If you get a chance to peek into the nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena it is worth a visit as this is quite an impressive facility for a junior college. Final Thoughts The newly designed Harford Baseball Field is an impressive facility that offers high-quality baseball for no cost to the fans. Nothing fancy, but it makes a good stop for baseball fans.

Photos by Gregory Koch and Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Tiger Softball Stadium Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Softball Stadium website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 500 Towson Softball Towson University is the second-largest public university in the State of Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 college students, of which 18,000 are undergraduates. Their football team played for the 2013 Football Championship Subdivision National Championship, falling short to North Dakota State. The basketball team has also had scattered success over the years, most notably in the early 1990s under coach Terry Truax, with guards Kurk Lee and Devin Boyd in the old East Coast Conference. The Truax-led teams made it to two straight NCAA tournaments in 1990 and 1991. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, 15-time ECAC Champions, and 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. The Tigers’ softball team plays their home games at Tiger Softball Stadium which opened in 2015. Food & Beverage 1 There is a simple concession stand located at Tiger Softball Stadium that sells basic options such as soda, water, chips, and candy. It is a simple affair and you will want to eat elsewhere for a real meal. The concession stand is not open for all games, especially weekday afternoon games. Atmosphere 2 This is a basic stadium with a small set of stands located behind home plate. There is a mix of chairback seats and bleachers. A standard, simple scoreboard is located beyond the outfield. They do have a PA system for music and simple game announcements. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the field. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Some great options are Paris Baguette, Raisin' Canes, and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Fans 4 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in residence students. Students are starting to come to games in more significant numbers. There are also many other fans who appear to be either locals or family of the players. Access 3 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn location of the sports complexes. Tiger Softball Stadium is hidden behind SECU Arena and may not be easy to find. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 4 There is no admission charge and the simple food menu is reasonably priced so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 1 The only real extras are the unique location (hidden by an arena and the nearby loading dock) and the Towson Softball banner along the outside of the field. Final Thoughts Tiger Softball Stadium is not a place you will normally search for an amazing sports experience, but if you happen to be in the area it is a cheap way to enjoy a game of softball.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Moody Coliseum 1600 Campus Court Abilene, TX 79699 Abilene Christian Wildcats website Moody Coliseum website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 5,500 A-C-U Established as a hub of the Texas and Pacific Railroad in 1881, Abilene, Texas, quickly became a regional economic center and centerpiece for the “Big Country”. Dubbed the “Key City”, Abilene has maintained its importance to the west-central area of Texas for the past 250 years. Allen Booker Barrett, educator and Church of Christ preacher from Tennessee, founded what would become Abilene Christian University in 1906 on five acres of land purchased from J. W. Childers. Originally named Childers Christian College in honor of J. W., the school was renamed Abilene Christian College in 1920. Though the school moved to a new, much larger location in 1929, its name remained the same until the school gained full university status in 1976. What began with 25 students on a 5-acre parcel of land near the railroad in west Abilene has grown into a mid-major university serving over 6,000 students, including 4,200 undergraduates representing all 50 states, two territories, and 56 foreign countries. The early days of the athletic program were spent as either independent teams or members of the Texas Conference or Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association. In 1952, ACU joined the NAIA and competed as a member school for 20 years. In 1973, the Wildcats joined the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference, where they remained until beginning the transition up to Division I in 2013. As of today, there are 17 varsity sports at ACU, which have produced 40 Olympians across all sports. Wildcat Basketball has qualified for postseason competition many times in its illustrious history, including five trips to the NAIA or NCAA Division II regional finals, as well as one Elite 8 appearance. Their greatest feat, however, came in the 2021 NCAA Tournament when Abilene Christian, under the direction of Coach Joe Golding and a relentless defense, knocked off # 3 Texas during March Madness, before succumbing to UCLA. The Wildcats currently compete in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), where they have resided since 2021.   Food & Beverage   3 Concession upgrades were a major feature of a renovation project completed in 2022. Moody Coliseum has 3 fully stocked concession areas, offering all the normal snack and nonalcoholic drink options one would expect at a basketball game, all served by friendly students. Located conveniently near stairwells and the floor entry portal, all 3 concession stations are easily accessible from the stands. The stands accept cash and multiple digital payment forms, including cards, Apple Pay, and ACU school bucks. Food options are limited to traditional snack fare, including popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, candy, and chips. There are no specialty or premium items included, but the food presented is prepared fresh before and during games. Coca-Cola products are offered in 20-ounce bottles, with no souvenir containers appearing to be available for any food items. There is a large selection of drink choices, including multiple flavors of Powerade and Body Armor, three different bottled waters, energy drinks, both sweet and unsweet tea, Coke Zero, Diet Coke, and Dr Pepper, as well as Coke and Sprite. Alcohol is not allowed on Abilene Christian’s campus, so no alcohol sales are offered through the concessions here. My suggestion is a hot dog, popcorn, and a bottled drink of your choice. If you are lucky, you will be present on $1 hotdog night, where all attendees are presented with a coupon for one $1 hot dog.   Atmosphere   4 The original domed structure at Moody Coliseum created a multi-purpose seating bowl that surrounds the floor in a circular style. This ensures that all the padded, folding seats face the court, creating quality sightlines for all fans. The playing surface is at ground level, meaning that some stair climbing is required for most seats. General admission seating is on the north end of the coliseum, most easily accessible using the ticket booths facing the football stadium, and well-marked with signage. Several stairways lead up into the higher seating areas, and once inside the venue, there is a walkway that allows for 360-degree access within the building. There are multiple accessible seating areas on the floor level for fans with disabilities, and a chair lift is also available at the northeast stairwell to take fans who need it up to the higher seating level. Abilene Christian averages between 1,000 and 1,100 fans per home game, with larger crowds for rivalries and on special theme nights. The crowd appears to be a mixture of alumni/season ticket supporters and students, along with a few visiting fans. Student groups are spread throughout the facility, instead of being seated solely in one area. Signage saves seating for students beyond the south baseline, but there are also student groups who spread throughout the venue as seating allows. The students are engaged with the game play, but at no time is it inappropriate; during the most recent game I attended, a male social club even asked if they were bothering me with their chants and cheers. The game announcer makes clear and concise calls without overshadowing the play on the court. Multiple gameday emcees rotate and introduce fan participation contests during timeouts on the floor. The energy brought by the various emcees is inconsistent, however, which makes a difference in the crowd interaction. Most games are designed for ACU students, with prizes that benefit Wildcat undergrads such as campus bucks and local gift cards – contests include half-court shots, long golf putts, and three-point shots, among others.   Neighborhood   4 Abilene Christian, located on the eastern edge of the University Hills neighborhood of Abilene, is surrounded by a mixture of mid-century single-family homes, duplexes, and condos that are popular with students, faculty, and as short-term vacation rentals. Traditionally a safe and quiet area of town, this Rockwellian setting is slowly showing signs of modernization through business development north and east of the university, as well as urban renewal, one home at a time. Paired with the school’s desire to compete academically and athletically with top-tier schools across the US, Abilene Christian’s campus has grown into a beautiful gem on “The Hill”. Within a short drive, visitors will find numerous dining and sleeping options. In addition to multiple Airbnb and Vrbo listings near campus, there are multiple hotels within a couple of miles of the arena,  including Courtyard by Marriott ,   Home2 Suites , Residence Inn , TownePlace Suites , Holiday Inn Express , and Comfort Suites , among others. Dining options within a short drive are varied, with choices ranging from drive-thru fast food to finer dining restaurants. Located catty-corner from campus to the northwest, you will find Allen Ridge, a retail and dining center featuring lakeside dining options, plus a playground and walking trail. Restaurants found in Allan Ridge include Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Twisted Root Burger Company, Cork and Pig Tavern, and Phoenix Pho. With ample parking across the street from these restaurants, dining and walking to the game is a viable option, although free parking is located even closer to the facility. Multiple fast food options can be quickly found by traveling south on Judge Ely Boulevard or east on Ambler Avenue. Among these quick options, you will find McDonald’s, KFC, Braum’s, Rosa’s, Schotzsky’s, Raising Cane’s, Taco Casa, Panda Express, and Jason’s Deli, to name a few. For casual sit-down experiences in the same two areas, you can find Cracker Barrel, Chili’s, Chipotle, Blu Barrel Bar and Grill, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Other local favorites within a reasonable drive include Galveston Seafood Company, Oscar’s Mexican Food, Rock and Rollerz Burgers, and Texas Flaming Grill. Another local favorite, a Texas top 50 barbecue joint, is Jay’s BBQ Shack on South 11th Street. For fine dining, a few suggestions that require a bit longer drive include The Beehive, Taylor County Taphouse, and Perini’s Steakhouse, among many more. Perini’s is located in Buffalo Gap, approximately 30 minutes south of Abilene, where the owner, Tom Perini, is famous for serving presidents, governors, and celebrities, with his meals providing some of the best bites of food you may ever eat.   Fans   4 Wildcat fans are known to be loyal. They are generally neither rude nor confrontational, but get loud, cheer success, and expect to be competitive in all their athletic endeavors. As the university has grown and its athletic programs have moved up in competition, the number of regional rivalries has diminished, leaving few that remain. Basketball crowds are influenced greatly by both game-day promotions and the success of the team. I most recently attended the annual student “social club night” during pledge week, so the student crowd was large and loud. The number of large student groups on hand that night led chants and competition amongst one another to be the loudest during the game. Since its 2022 renovation, Moody Coliseum has a seating capacity of 3,600 (approximately 500 fewer than the original setup); the new seating arrangement allows for additional leg room and larger seats. All seats in the arena bowl provide a quality viewing experience.   Access   5 Abilene Christian University is located mere blocks off Interstate 20 in Abilene, Texas, via exit 288 at the corner of Ambler Avenue and Judge Ely Boulevard. With Abilene Regional Airport a mere 12-minute drive away, the university is easily accessible whether flying or driving into town. If flying commercial, you will be forced to utilize American Eagle with connections in DFW airport; Abilene Regional allows private planes as well. There are also multiple car rental agencies at the airport to choose from, in addition to rideshare services. Public transportation is not a reasonable option in Abilene. Moody Coliseum is located near the center of campus, easily visible immediately to the south of the football practice field. The parking lot adjacent to the arena is reserved for disabled and permit parking, but free parking is located less than a half mile’s walk from the venue entrance. The free parking lots are located along Campus Court or off ACU Drive, between the baseball and football fields – both lots can be accessed from Ambler Boulevard.   Return On Investment   4 The cost of general admission tickets is $8, and a full meal can be purchased for less than $10, meaning that a $20 bill is sufficient to guarantee an evening of entertainment. With the amount of action NCAA DI Mid-Major basketball offers, infused with an active student body and in-game entertainment, one should feel comfortable knowing their time and money will be well worth the investment when you make the trip to ACU.   Extras   5 Painted on the wall across from the northeast staircase is a picture of the Wildcat’s tallest player beside a tape measure; this is a fun and unique selfie background that can be utilized by fans of all ages. Ample, free parking is available near Moody Coliseum from multiple directions in Abilene. This close access at no extra charge makes attending a game seem like a bargain, and deserves mentioning here. One goal of the recent renovation was fan comfort, which was accomplished through new, padded, folding seats with cupholders. The addition of more leg room, as well as an orientation of seats facing center court, has created an environment where no seats are ill-advised inside the arena. This added comfort and convenience is worth a few extra points for sure. Located just off the traffic circle on Teague Boulevard (accessible from Judge Ely Boulevard on the east side of campus) sits the Jacob’s Dream sculpture. This large stone and bronze display, along with the surrounding natural landscaping, provides one of the most desired backdrops for photographic events in the area. Snapping a few images, hopefully during the “golden hour” of daylight, is worthy of special recognition.   Final Thoughts Abilene Christian University, though one of the newer NCAA Division I athletic departments, has made a commitment to improve its facilities to better compete with its sister institutions. With fan-friendly facilities and an interactive game day presentation, ACU basketball is well worth the visit. When planning a visit to Abilene for Wildcat basketball, if time allows, visit one of many local restaurants and enjoy some time walking around the campus. Plan to document your visit with selfies or group pictures from Jacob’s Dream before watching your chosen game. General admission seats provide wonderful sightlines, but with a slight upcharge, seats just off the floor are available as well.

Photo by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey The name "Seagulls" (or "Sea Gulls") has a storied history in New Jersey sports, most notably associated with professional basketball and hockey franchises in Atlantic City. Professional Basketball: Atlantic City Seagulls The most modern and successful iteration of the "Seagulls" name belongs to the professional basketball team that called Atlantic City home. ● USBL  Era (1996–2001): The Atlantic City Seagulls were a dominant force in the United States Basketball League (USBL). They are best remembered for winning three consecutive league championships from 1997 to 1999. ● ABA  Revival (2021): After a two-decade hiatus, the franchise was revived to play in the American Basketball Association (ABA) for the 2021–22 season. The team made headlines by scoring 251 points in its home debut but ultimately ceased operations after just six games. Basketball: The Championship Years (1997–1999) Photo Courtesy of Ben Fogletto The Atlantic City Seagulls of the United States Basketball League (USBL) were a powerhouse under coach Kevin Mackey. During their three-peat championship run, the team featured several elite players: ● Adrian Griffin: The team’s primary star and a future NBA player and coach. Griffin was named USBL Player of the Year in 1999 and was a two-time Postseason MVP (1998, 1999). ● Mark Baker & Brent Scott: Co-MVPs of the 1997 Postseason Festival, they anchored the team's first title run. ● Michael Lloyd: A scoring machine who led the league with 27.3 points per game in 1999 and was previously the 1996 Rookie of the Year. ● R. Kelly: (Yeah, that R. Kelly), an infamous music star, played parts of two seasons (1997–1998) as a professional guard for the team. Hockey: Atlantic City Seagulls (1933–1952) The "Seagulls" moniker was first popularized in Atlantic City by professional ice hockey teams playing at the historic Boardwalk Hal l  (then Atlantic City Auditorium). ● Original Franchise (1933–1942): This team competed in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) . Their tenure ended abruptly in 1942 when the U.S. Army took over Convention Hall for World War II training, forcing the team to relocate and become the Philadelphia Falcons. ● Post-War Revival (1947–1952): A new Seagulls franchise joined the Eastern Amateur Hockey League  in 1947. Led by Herb Foster, they won a league championship in 1951 and reached the national senior championship semifinals. The team dissolved in 1952 due to financial struggles following a decline in local tourism. Other Notable "Seagull" References in NJ Sports  Baseball: Asbury Park Sea Gulls (1914) There was a baseball team in Asbury Park that used the Sea Gulls nickname in 1914. The Atlantic League franchise played one season, but was referred to as the Sea Urchins in out-of-town newspapers. The Urchins name stuck and is used to describe the club in historical references. However, we uncovered that mystery in a previous Stadium Journey article. While not always based in New Jersey, the name frequently appears in regional competition: ● The Seagull Classic : A long-standing high school basketball tournament in Atlantic City (revived recently at Holy Spirit High School). Courtesy of: SUSeagulls.com ● Salisbury Sea Gulls : Even Salisbury University, MD (NJ’s Southern Neighbor) has adopted the name and frequently competes against New Jersey schools like The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) and Rutgers in football and soccer. They even play at Sea Gull Stadium . Courtesy of: SUSeagulls.com The website TrueJersey.com   has come in on the fun by lampooning a fictitious sports team named the New Jersey Seagulls, with the Seagull being the “unofficial mascot” of the Jersey Shore. TrueNewJersey.com states, “The Only Team That Plays Dirty … Forget the Giants, the Jets, and the Eagles. The real home team of the Garden State doesn't play in a stadium—they play on the boardwalk…Whether they're diving for pizza crusts in Seaside or patrolling the trash cans in Wildwood, these birds are the true kings of the coast.” They have created several pieces of merch (hats, t-shirts, flags, etc.) to go along with their ruse..  In the future, will there be another team to don the Seagull name? It seems that the name will most likely be flying around again like the seagulls of the New Jersey Coast Line.

Photos by Jereny Pushkin, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Maples Pavilion 655 Campus Drive Stanford, CA 94305 Stanford Cardinal website Maples Pavilion website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 7,233 A New Era on The Farm Maples Pavilion opened in 1969 and has served as the home of Stanford women's basketball for over five decades. The Cardinal program is one of the most decorated in the sport, with three national championships (1990, 1992, 2021) and 15 Final Four appearances, including nine since 2008. Under legendary head coach Tara VanDerveer, who retired in 2024 as the winningest coach in women's college basketball history, Stanford became a perennial powerhouse. Now under head coach Kate Paye, the program is navigating life in the ACC and looking to return to its championship standard. Food & Beverage 3 Maples Pavilion offers standard stadium fare at prices that run on the higher side for a college venue. The concession setup includes traditional stands as well as a grab-and-go section stocked with Modelo, Coors, Lagunitas IPA, and Topo Chico seltzers for fans looking to skip the line. The venue is cashless and serves Coca-Cola products. Premium beer and wine run $16, while domestic beers are $14. Since fans are permitted to bring in their own food and sealed non-alcoholic beverages, and with the variety of dining options in nearby Palo Alto, eating before arriving and grabbing a beer inside is the best approach. Atmosphere 3 Maples Pavilion is a nondescript building within Stanford's athletics complex. There is no dramatic architecture or imposing facade. Inside, the 7,233-seat arena puts fans close to the action. The lower bowl features padded chairback seating while the upper sections have backless bleachers with tight legroom, especially when your row fills in. When purchasing tickets, keep in mind that section numbers are shared between lower and upper levels, with Row F being the first row of the upper section. Sections 9–13 face the court logo right-side up and are where in-arena presentations are aimed, making them the prime seats for first-time visitors. For the best experience, sit in the lower level in an actual seat rather than the bleachers. The main scoreboard displays a live game feed while the four corner screens handle team stats and on-court player stats. The Stanford band was present and played intermittently throughout the game. The building runs warm. It was noticeably warmer inside the gym than on the concourse, so dress in layers. Neighborhood 4 Maples Pavilion sits on Stanford's campus, one of the most beautiful college settings in the country. The Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, palm-lined pathways, and open quads make for a pleasant pre-game stroll. The venue is within a 30-minute walk of downtown Palo Alto, offering plenty of options before and after the game. The closest off-campus shopping center is Town and Country Village, with several dining and shopping options. Gott's is a popular pregame spot with beer and wine available. For something different, Ramen Nagi is the local outpost of a Japanese ramen chain, though expect a line. If a sports bar is more your speed, the Patio is the best nearby option. Palo Alto has a wide array of hotel options, from the Best Western to five-star properties like Nobu and the Clement. Fans 3 The arena was roughly a third full for an 11 AM Sunday tip-off on a holiday weekend. The challenging time slot deserves a caveat, but the attendance also reflects a program in transition after missing the NCAA Tournament in 2025. The crowd skewed to extremes, with predominantly older fans, likely locals, and longtime supporters from the VanDerveer era, alongside families with young kids, which tracks with Stanford's heavy promotional push toward youth-oriented events and postgame activities. Despite the sparse turnout, the fans who showed up were engaged from start to finish. They were loud, cheering, and paying close attention to the action throughout the game. The crowd stayed just as full at the final buzzer as it was at tip-off, and the building got genuinely loud down the stretch; impressive considering the size of the crowd. For women's college basketball, the atmosphere was firmly above average. Access 4 Stanford's campus is located a few miles from both 101 and 280, making travel to Maples Pavilion easy. Free parking is available on campus within a five-minute walk on weekends, but be prepared to pay during the week. Note that while there is a Caltrain station called Stanford, it only operates on football game days. For basketball, the Palo Alto Caltrain station is the closest option, about a 30-minute walk or short rideshare from campus. Uber and Lyft are widely available. Security lines moved steadily. Stanford enforces a clear bag policy, though free bag check is available for those with noncompliant bags. Physical tickets are available at the box office for fans who prefer them over mobile entry. Halftime lines for both concessions and restrooms were manageable. Return on Investment 3 Tickets purchased directly through Stanford start at $10 for general admission and go up to $75 for courtside seating. Multi-game flex plans drop the range to $8–$45. On the secondary market, tickets run $14–$60, with limited availability. Stanford also offers group discounts for larger groups. At $10 for general admission to an ACC matchup, the ticket price is an excellent value. However, concession prices are on the higher side and can add up quickly if you are not taking advantage of the BYO food policy. Extras 4 Stanford runs an impressive slate of promotions for nearly every women's home game, ranging from jersey and rally towel giveaways to postgame selfies and layups on the court, themed Players Nights with player-inspired concessions, a Pink Game with a bucket hat giveaway, and community events like a holiday toy drive. This game featured a National Girls & Women in Sports Day celebration with athletes from other Stanford women's sports, including fencing, tennis, gymnastics, and rowing, running pregame activities for kids on the concourse. Stanford is investing in building the next generation of fans. The Stanford Tree, one of college sports' most distinctive and polarizing mascots, made its first appearance at the end of the first quarter, leading a conga line with kids before spending the majority of the rest of the game stationed with the band. The band also featured a “saxophone monster” - a band member with their hands stuffed inside saxophones, dancing around to distract opposing free-throw shooters. The band is a uniquely Stanford bit of entertainment worth keeping an eye on. In a world where digital tickets have replaced physical ones, it is great to see Stanford actually design their digital ticket, showing a high-quality graphic instead of the simple template tickets that have become ubiquitous. Roscoe's Corner, a small campus store outpost, offers a limited selection of Stanford merchandise inside the arena. Final Thoughts Maples Pavilion, under the new era of Stanford women's basketball, offers an affordable, intimate, and family-friendly college basketball experience. The program may be in transition, but the bones are strong - a decorated history, a beautiful campus setting, $10 general admission tickets to ACC competition, and an engaged fanbase that shows up and stays loud even when the arena is not full. Stanford's promotional calendar is very strong and is clearly aimed at cultivating the next generation of Cardinal fans. For basketball fans in the Bay Area looking for a low-cost outing, Stanford women's basketball at Maples Pavilion is well worth the trip to The Farm.

American Indoor Football  (AIF), founded in 2005, has experienced a tumultuous yet fascinating journey over the past two decades. As the league commemorates its 20th anniversary in 2026, it reflects on its growth, struggles, and resilience throughout the years. Origins and Early Challenges In 2005, the Atlantic Indoor Football League (AIF) began with six teams, primarily on the East Coast, and underwent notable challenges during its early years despite ambitions for growth. After a shortened initial season, the league was renamed the American Indoor Football League and expanded by 10 teams in 2006, which led to instability as many franchises transitioned to other leagues, including the AIFA.  By 2010, the AIFA Eastern Division's remaining teams merged with the Southern Indoor Football League, while three teams in the West attempted to form the AIFA West; however, following the folding of one team and the failure of a planned expansion team, the remaining two played an independent schedule. Evolution and Rebranding After a period of contraction, the league rebranded to American Indoor Football in the 2012 season. This relaunched identity aimed to differentiate itself from other indoor football leagues and solidify its appeal. The league gradually expanded westward, reaching new markets and establishing a more stable presence in the indoor football landscape. However, the AIF faced operational difficulties, leading to the cessation of activities after the 2016 season. The following years were marked by uncertainty until a revival effort emerged in 2021, spearheaded by league owner John Morris, who sought to bring the AIF back to life. Resurgence and Current Developments The league officially relaunched in 2023 with four new teams: the Cedar Rapids River Kings, Corpus Christi Tritons, RiverCity Rage, and West Virginia Miners. The rejoining of the Columbus Lions, champions of the last pre-cessation AIF season, provided an experienced team to revitalize the competition. As of 2026, the AIF comprises six teams, including recent expansions such as the Wyoming Cavalry and Pennsylvania Union. Despite its challenges, the league’s commitment to indoor football and community engagement continues to thrive. Celebrating 20 Years In 2026, the AIF celebrates its 20th anniversary with a series of special events, including matches that highlight the league's journey and achievements. However, the celebration takes a bittersweet turn with the termination of the North Michigan Muskies franchise due to compliance irregularities in February 2026, showcasing the ongoing challenges that indoor football leagues face. The league remains focused on growth, community involvement, and introducing new teams. Notably, the appointment of former Super Bowl champion Patrick Johnson as a senior consultant in late 2025 signifies an exciting shift as the AIF looks to enhance its competitive stature. As the American Indoor Football League approaches its 20th anniversary, it reflects a complex yet inspiring history defined by resilience and adaptability. Whether facing the challenges of team turnover, league restructuring, or market fluctuations, the AIF continues to pursue a path forward, embodying the spirit of indoor football in America.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Harford Varsity Softball Field 401 Thomas Run Rd Bel Air, MD 21015 Harford Fighting Owls website Harford Softball Field website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 500 The Fighting Owls of Bel Air Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. It plays in NJCAA Division I, the highest athletic level for two-year colleges, and is part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. The Harford Varsity Softball Field is in the same Thomas Run Park area as the baseball field and the Harford Stadium, home to soccer and lacrosse. The nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena also opened in the last few years. The Aberdeen Arsenal of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball played the 2000 season at Thomas Run Park's baseball fields. The Arsenal departed to make room for the Aberdeen IronBirds, an affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles owned by Cal Ripken, Jr. Food & Beverage 1 There technically is no food offered at the Harford Varsity Baseball Field, but with the nearby Wawa convenience store a short walk down the paved path between fields, I count it as the field’s concession stand. The food offerings vary from hoagies, soup, quesadillas, and hot dogs. And the prices are better than most concession stands. Atmosphere 2 There is not much to the Harford Varsity Softball Field. There are two extremely small stands on each side of the plate. Your best bet is to bring a lawn chair and watch the game further down one of the lines. There is not much else in terms of atmosphere, as it is a JUCO-level softball game. The team does have a PA announcer and plays walkup music for players. Neighborhood 4 Harford Community College is in a suburban location and has plenty of free parking. The area is safe and has many restaurants nearby. Naughty Dogs is within walking distance and has a fun, cheap bar for pre- and post-game refreshments, along with food such as pit beef. If you are in the mood for Mexican, La Tolteca is located just a brief distance away and is a consistently good food place. Travel to Bel Air and there are multiple chain and local options. Zen 16 Sushi Cafe and MaGerks Pub & Grill are some great options. A quick drive in the other direction is Aberdeen. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe with Love is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. Super Chicken Rico is another choice with which you can’t go wrong. Fans 2 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 Harford is located just a few miles off of I-95, one of the largest highways in the northeast. But State Route 22 can be very crowded with commuters traveling between Aberdeen Proving Grounds (APG) and central Harford County. APG has become a very large Army base after the last round of federal base realignment and closure activities. So leave some extra time getting to the campus. There is plenty of free parking. Towson University in Northeastern Maryland is a brand new extension campus of the well-established state university that recently opened across from the Harford campus. Return on Investment 5 Games are free to attend, so the return on investment is pretty high. The low cost of concessions at nearby Wawa also makes the cost to watch a good level of softball game pretty high. Extras 2 The Harford Sports Complex also has another softball field. a baseball field, as well as a convertible field that can hold softball and/or baseball games. Harford Stadium, home to the school’s lacrosse and soccer teams, is also located next door. If you get a chance to peek into the nearby APG Federal Credit Union Arena, it is worth a visit, as this is quite an impressive facility for a junior college. Final Thoughts The simple Harford Varsity Softball Field does not necessarily impress, but it offers good sports action at no cost to the fans. Nothing fancy, but it makes a good stop for softball fans.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 7555 N Pima Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85258 Map It Colorado Rockies Spring Training website Salt River Fields at Talking Stick website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 11,000 Rox in the Desert The Colorado Rockies hold their spring training at the beautiful Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, a state‑of‑the‑art complex they share with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The facility celebrates its 15th season in 2026. Before moving to the Valley, the Rockies spent their first spring training years at historic Hi Corbett Field in Tucson, where they trained from 1993 to 2011. Salt River Fields is notable as the first MLB spring training venue built on Native American land. Its architecture and landscaping draw heavily from Native American influences and the natural beauty of the surrounding desert. As fans explore the grounds, they’re treated to sweeping views of Camelback, the McDowell Mountains, the Superstitions, and other iconic ranges that frame the area. It’s an impressive complex - modern, scenic, and thoughtfully designed - and both the Rockies organization and their fans take pride in calling it their spring training home. Food & Beverage 4 Visitors to Salt River Fields will find no shortage of food and beverage options to enjoy. Permanent concession stands line the infield concourse, with additional offerings located beyond center field. Menus remain the same regardless of whether the Rockies or Diamondbacks are the home team. Home Plate Hot Dogs features six different hot dog varieties, while The Show serves smash burgers and chicken tender baskets. Venezia’s Pizza offers classic slices, and Cattle 101 dishes out four styles of smash burgers priced between $13 and $14.50. Most stands also carry ballpark staples like nachos, pretzels, fries, and other familiar favorites. The concourse is filled with the aromas of kettle corn, lemonade, sausages, brats, and traditional hot dogs from various kiosks. Island Noodles, Mustache Pretzels, Rusty Taco, and Chick-fil-A add even more variety to the mix. Fans with a sweet tooth can stop by the third‑base cookie stand, where chocolate‑chip cookies buckets and sleeves are perfect for sharing. Two party decks - Ultra Terrace and Someburros (a delicious local Arizona Mexican chain) - anchor the baselines and offer lively gathering spots. Someburros Patio Down First Baseline at Salt River Fields, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Adult beverages are easy to find, with beer carts and vendors selling canned domestic and craft beers, cocktails, and seltzers priced $13 - $17.25. The Home Plate Bar offers cocktails, while other stands serve frozen drinks and fruit‑flavored adult smoothies. In center field, the Casino Arizona Bar adds cocktails, TVs, indoor/outdoor seating, and air‑conditioning. Pepsi products, bottled water, and Gatorade are the available non‑alcoholic options. Atmosphere 5 Beautiful Southwestern landscaping surrounds Salt River Fields both inside and out. Cactus gardens, desert terrain, hardy shrubs, and natural rock features blend together to create an attractive, regionally authentic setting. The ballpark’s architecture fits seamlessly into its environment, incorporating a traditional Native American-style ramada to provide welcome shade from the Arizona sun. Beautiful Desert Landscaping at Salt River Fields, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The seating experience is excellent, with wide green fold‑down seats, cup holders, and great legroom. Sections 112 and 212 sit behind home plate, and thin netting runs to the foul poles, leaving only the berm net-free. Much of the infield - especially behind home plate and in the 200 level - stays shaded. Drink rails line the concourse and the tops of select sections. Fans enter from the upper concourse and walk down into the bowl, with handrails and a walkway separating the 100 and 200 levels. The grassy outfield berm remains a family favorite, offering a sunny, relaxed spot where vendors roam with drinks and snacks. The ballpark’s audio is generally pleasant, with reasonable music volume along the baselines.. Short sound bites between pitches may amuse some fans and annoy others. A wire‑mounted camera runs along the third‑base side, so those wanting to avoid it may prefer lower seats or the first‑base side. The scoreboard displays lineups, pitcher and batter info, a line score, video clips, and between‑inning entertainment, though some fans may still need binoculars to read player names depending on their eyesight. Neighborhood 5 If you do only one thing during your visit to Scottsdale, stop by the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens , across the home plate parking lot from Salt River Fields. This moving tribute honors the service members lost in the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, and at twilight its illuminated columns outline the USS Arizona in a striking display. Salt River Fields sits beside The Pavilions at Talking Stick, a large shopping and dining center with plenty of pre‑ or post‑game options. Popular chains include Buffalo Wild Wings, Angry Crab Shack, Blazin’ Mongolian BBQ, Red Robin, Filiberto’s, and fast‑food spots like McDonald’s, Chipotle, Blimpie, Arby’s, and several pizza places.  About a mile away, PHX Beer Co. serves house‑brewed craft beer and a solid food menu, while Grassroots Kitchen & Tap offers excellent local fare. The Pavilions also features an escape room, indoor skydiving, and a luxury movie theater. Nearby attractions include multiple golf courses, Butterfly Wonderland - the largest butterfly conservatory in the U.S. - and Talking Stick Resort and Casino, less than three miles away. For lodging, Great Wolf Lodge and its water park sit across the parking lot. Budget‑friendly options include Staybridge Suites , less than half a mile away, and a Hampton Inn & Suites across the Loop 101. Hotel prices typically double during spring training. Baseball fans can easily reach other Cactus League parks. The Diamondbacks share Salt River Fields, and several East Valley stadiums - Scottsdale Stadium (Giants), Sloan Park (Cubs), Tempe Diablo Stadium (Angels), and Hohokam Stadium (A’s)—are a short drive away. Arizona State University’s baseball , basketball , and hockey venues in Tempe are just over ten miles from the complex. Fans 4 Rockies fans show up proudly in purple, usually drawing 7,000 - 8,000 fans per game at Salt River Fields. Crowds grow on weekends and spike when popular teams like the Cubs or Dodgers visit, with attendance increasing as spring training progresses. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with fans easily chatting and plenty of purple is seen throughout the seating bowl. The venue also attracts many visiting‑team supporters, who often gather near the visitors’ bullpen and dugout to watch warmups and get close to their favorite players. As with most Cactus League games, fans easily strike up conversations with their neighbors. You’ll see plenty of fans wearing purple spread across the seating areas. And, since it’s such a nice ballpark, many visiting team fans congregate near the visitor’s bullpen and dugout. Access 4 Salt River Fields sits just west of the Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) and is easily accessed from either the Indian Bend Road or Via de Ventura exits. Several parking lots surround the complex, with prices ranging from $11 to $33, and higher for valet service. Golf cart attendants shuttle fans between the lots and the stadium entrances if needed. Rideshare services such as Uber, Lyft, and Waymo operate throughout Scottsdale, and the venue provides clear directions for those drivers. If you’re attending a weekday evening game, plan for extra travel time due to heavier rush hour traffic. For those flying in, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the closest major airport, located about 18 miles southwest of the ballpark. Limited public transportation is available via Valley Metro - primarily bus route 81 - so checking Valley Metro’s website for fares, schedules, and maps is recommended.  Four stadium gates open 90-minutes before first pitch. Bags smaller than 16" x 16" x 8" are permitted. Fans pass through metal detectors, and security staff conduct quick bag checks only if needed, making the process smooth and efficient. The concourse is wide and open, allowing visitors to keep an eye on the action while walking around. Navigating the stadium is generally easy, though fans should watch for uneven step heights in the seating aisles. Ramps throughout the complex accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, and ADA seating lines the top of the grandstand along the concourse. Restrooms are plentiful, clean, and well maintained throughout the ballpark. Return on Investment 4 As with most spring training facilities, prices have climbed sharply compared to years past, and the Rockies’ complex is no exception. Tickets generally range from about $23 for berm seating to $74 for premium spots, with weekend games and marquee opponents - such as the Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Chicago Cubs - adding a few extra dollars.  And, while these prices seem high, other clubs ask even more for their spring‑training seats. Concession prices are steep. An $11 Chick-fil-A sandwich or a $16 - $17 beer costs noticeably more than you’d pay outside the ballpark, which has unfortunately become standard across many sports venues. Parking at around $11 is common at several Cactus League stadiums. On the positive side, staff hand out a complimentary spring training program, which is a nice touch. Fans can bring in two bottles of water and some snacks, or simply plan to eat before or after the game to keep costs down. Despite the rising prices, this is a remarkable facility - one well worth visiting if you’re traveling to Arizona for spring training. Extras 5 Several features make a Rockies game at Salt River Fields especially memorable. Each entrance has its own character, highlighted by fountains, sculptures, and team‑themed displays. The outfield entrances feature a Rockies “team concepts” walkway and a Diamondbacks “historic timeline.” Just outside the park, visitors can enjoy a nature walk around a small lake and visit the Veterans Circle honoring Native American veterans. The walk includes the Keli McGregor Reflection Trail, named for the former Rockies president who helped bring this state‑of‑the‑art complex to life. Inside the park, fans can look directly into the bullpens and watch pitchers warm up just a few feet away. First Baseline and View into Bullpen, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Complimentary SPF 30 sunscreen is available at two outfield stations—a thoughtful touch in the Arizona sun. For kids, a small ball field in the right‑field concourse offers whiffle‑ball batting practice, and a bounce house adds to the family‑friendly vibe. Final Thoughts At fifteen years old, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick still stands out as one of the most impressive spring training venues in Arizona. The ballpark experience is exceptional, with fan comfort clearly a priority -from the plentiful shade and wide concourses to the generous legroom and diverse food options. If you haven’t made the trip yet, it deserves a spot on your must‑visit list.

Courtesy of the University of Missouri and DLR Group The University of Missouri is set to make significant changes to Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium  as it approaches its 100th anniversary. As part of a broader revenue-generating strategy, Mizzou Athletics announced plans to secure corporate naming rights for the stadium, which is currently undergoing a major renovation. This initiative aims to enhance competitiveness within the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and contribute to financial stability in the rapidly evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. Corporate Naming Rights and Revenue Needs On February 10, 2026, Mizzou Athletics formally announced it is exploring partnerships for the stadium’s naming rights. The process is being led by Eric Morrison, the Deputy Director of Athletics, in conjunction with Intersect Partners, a firm specializing in sports property sales. Given the changing dynamics in college sports, the decision to pursue naming rights is part of a strategy to address a reported $9.1 million budget deficit faced by the athletic department for fiscal year 2025. Morrison noted that the naming rights deal would allow the university to benefit from its "brand identity" as they seek a partner that aligns with Mizzou's values." Initial interest from various companies has already been noted, although specific names remain undisclosed. Courtesy of the University of Missouri and DLR Group The Historical Significance of Memorial Stadium Opened in 1926, Memorial Stadium has been a significant landmark for the University of Missouri, dedicated to honoring the over 100 students and alumni who lost their lives in World War I. The current plans to change the name have stirred concerns among students and alumni, with petitions circulating to maintain the "Memorial" designation. As part of the renaming process, Mizzou is committed to preserving the historical significance of the original name in collaboration with veteran organizations and stakeholders. This reflects a sensitivity toward the stadium's heritage while adapting to contemporary needs. You can check out the progress at The Memorial Stadium Centennial Project’s  Stadium Construction Live Cam . Renovations and Future of the Stadium In tandem with the naming rights initiative, The Memorial Stadium Centennial Project  at the University of Missouri marks the stadium’s entry into its second century, representing a significant transformation. Earmarked for completion in time for the 2026 college football season, coinciding with the stadium's 100th anniversary.  This $250 million renovation is designed to modernize the fan experience by enhancing amenities, including expanded premium seating, improved concessions, and updated restrooms. A key feature of this project is the complete enclosure of the north end zone, which will alter the stadium's configuration from a horseshoe shape to a more immersive, bowl-like design. Including 2,000 newly constructed premium seating above the freshly constructed north concourse. Additionally, the project maintains a commitment to tradition by ensuring elements like the Rock M will remain, signifying the university's rich football history while embracing a vibrant future. Courtesy of the University of Missouri and DLR Group As part of the ongoing discussion around naming rights, Mizzou is also exploring ways to honor military service and ensure that the contributions of alumni are not overlooked in this new arrangement.  The University of Missouri’s approach to renaming Memorial Stadium highlights the balance between financial sustainability and the preservation of heritage. As the athletic department looks outward for partnerships, the community's response will play a crucial role in shaping the future identity of this iconic venue.

Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly in between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. It has been announced that Harford will host the 2023 NJCAA Men's Lacrosse National Championship, May 12-14 at Harford Stadium inside of Harford’s Sports Complex. The tournament has been held in Maryland 15 times since its inception in 1970, most recently in 2015 at Community College of Baltimore County Essex. The past two national championships have been held in Garden City, NY, home of the two-time reigning National Champions, Nassau Community College. The Harford Fighting Owls men’s lacrosse team has made the final four in the last three seasons, but have not won the championship. According to the NJCAA and Harford Community College Athletics: "The three-day event is expected to welcome over 1,200 visitors to the Harford Community College campus. The economic impact of the event is estimated at upwards of $125,000 with the potential for multiple teams traveling to Bel Air from outside the state. Harford has made several updates to its facilities in preparation for the championship, including a new stadium press box, scoreboard, and other renovations to the complex. Day one of the tournament, May 12, includes a banquet honoring the four teams participating, as well as the 2023 USA Lacrosse Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductees. Day two will showcase the semi-final contests between the #2 and #3 seeds and the #1 and #4 seeds. Day three is reserved for the National Championship game and awards ceremony to be held immediately after." Tickets will be $10 per day and can be bought in advance and at the gate.

Everton are set to move into their new Bramley Moore Dock stadium for the 2024/25 season. It is an ambitious project that will leave the Toffees with one of the most impressive footballing homes in England. The Blues will be able to host up to 52,000 thousand fans. However, they could begin life in their new stadium as a Championship club depending on how their fortunes pan out. Everton's goalscoring struggles this season Everton are firmly involved in the Premier League relegation battle for the second year running. Last year Frank Lampard narrowly guided the Blues to safety. In this campaign, Sean Dyche is the man tasked with repeating the feat. The main reason for Everton's woes this season is their struggle to regularly score goals. The Blues are the league's lowest goalscorers and have averaged less than a goal per game. After 30 games this season, they had found the net just 23 times. A large part of their troubles can be owed to Dominic Calvert-Lewin's long-term injury issues. He has rarely been available for Everton this season. Neil Maupay was signed by Lampard in the summer window to provide an extra attacking option. However, he has struggled to perform at Goodison Park. The French striker has found the net on just a single occasion this term. Games involving Everton tend to not involve many goals for either side now that Sean Dyche's defensive tutorship is taking effect. Expert football tipsters at SBP offer advice on a range of football betting markets including goalline selections. A host of leading tipsters offer services including Peter who offers tips relating to Asian goal line bets. He averages a profitable return of 16 units per month. Statistics and strong research take precedence in relation to the tips that are offered. For example, in the Premier League teams like Everton will typically produce low-scoring contests, while leading teams like Manchester City score in abundance. Ultimately, Everton have become too predictable, they rarely look dangerous offensively and often rely on their defence to secure points. The issues will not end this summer If Everton are to survive a successive relegation dogfight this year then it certainly is a huge relief for the club. However, it will certainly not signal the end of their issues in regard to the insecurity of their Premier League status. The club still have financial issues looming over them which will make it difficult to invest in the transfer market. Several players could also leave if the Toffees do not find a way to become more ambitious and avoid a relegation battle next time around. Huge investment has gone into the new stadium project while ironically investment is hugely lacking on the pitch. Everton have for many years spent poorly on players who have not been a success at the club. Such players have left either for free or on measly fees. This has put the club in a position in which they cannot make significant expenditures in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. Everton have a huge task ahead if they are to ensure their Premier League status ahead of their Bramley Moore Dock christening. It would certainly be disappointing if one of the country's most impressive stadiums played host to Championship football.

Here at Stadium Journey, we often spend a lot of time visiting some of the world’s biggest and best sports venues. While we are at these venues we are also often seeing some of the largest and most well-known sports, but you also may have noticed we like to visit all sports. If there is a set of stands and someone is doing a sports activity, we are interested and will try to cover it for you here. When finding sports to cover we often spend time scouring the schedules of amateur and professional schedules of teams in each writer’s area, as well as while on vacation and trips. Sometimes we even forget to check for some events, such as tournaments and other special attractions. This writer was very lucky to have checked all necessary schedules and found a great event that Stadium Journey recommends. This is not a regular review as the event does rotate venues each year. We also covered the CAA Men's Tournament the prior week and wrote a review as that was scheduled for a few years at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington, DC. The Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) recently held its end-of-season basketball championship at SECU Arena on the campus of Towson University, just north of Baltimore, MD. T Monmouth won the tournament and will be representing the CAA in the NCAA Tournament. The event was a fun one to attend and we can definitely recommend such an event to our readers.

TO READ IN ENGLISH, SCROLL DOWN Uno stadio intitolato a Pelé in tutti i 211 paesi affiliati alla Fédération Internationale de Football Association. La proposta è stata lanciata dallo stesso presidente della FIFA, Gianni Infantino, nel corso della cerimonia funebre della leggenda brasiliana, cerimonia tenutasi allo Stadio Vila Belmiro del Santos FC, in Brasile, lo scorso 2 gennaio. La stessa Fifa ha deciso di rinominare il campo presente nella sua sede di Zurigo, in Svizzera, “Estádio Pelé – Fifa Zurich”. Prima federazione a recepire le indicazioni di Infantino quella di Capo Verde. L’Estádio Nacional di Praia, la capitale del paese, è stato così intitolato “Estádio Pelé”. Hanno poi seguito l’esempio del piccolo stato dell’Africa Occidentale la Guinea Bissau (che ha deciso di rinominare l’Estádio Nacional di Bafatà, la seconda città più grande del paese, “Rei Pelé”) e la Colombia (che ha modificato il nome dell’impianto di Villavicencio, capoluogo della regione di Meta, in “Bello Horizonte - Rey Pelé”). ------------------------------------------------------ A stadium named after Pelé in all 211 countries affiliated to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was recently proposed. The proposal was made by the president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, during the funeral ceremony of the Brazilian legend held at the Vila Belmiro Stadium of Santos FC, in Brazil, on January 2. FIFA itself has decided to rename the field at its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, “Estádio Pelé – FIFA Zurich." The first federation to follow the indications of President Infantino is Cape Verde. The Estádio Nacional in Praia, the capital of the country, was thus named “Estádio Pelé." The small West African state of Guinea Bissau (which decided to rename the Estádio Nacional of Bafatà, the second largest city in the country, “Rei Pelé”) and Colombia (which changed the name of Villavicencio facility, capital of the region of Meta, in “Bello Horizonte - Rey Pelé”) have also both followed the proposal.

Courtesy of the New York Mets The New York Mets have officially commenced construction on a $60 million player development complex in Port St. Lucie, a significant investment that underscores the team's commitment to building a brighter future. This cutting-edge facility, privately funded by owner Steve Cohen, is designed to enhance the training and performance capabilities of players at all developmental levels. Courtesy of the New York Mets Facility Overview The new complex will cover a total of 55,000 square feet and include several state-of-the-art features aimed at maximizing player training and wellness. Key Features 7,000 sq. ft. Weight Room: The complex will house a spacious weight room equipped with the latest fitness technology and equipment, enabling players to optimize their strength training and conditioning regimens. 20,000 sq. ft. Outdoor Agility Field: This expansive outdoor area will be dedicated to agility drills and conditioning exercises, providing players with ample space to hone their skills in a natural environment. Hydrotherapy and Training Spaces: Recognizing the importance of recovery in sports, the complex will also include specialized hydrotherapy facilities. These spaces will allow players to utilize water-based recovery techniques, helping to prevent injuries and promote rehabilitation. Covered Batting Cages and Pitching/Batting Tunnels: The facility will feature covered cages and tunnels, providing players with an all-weather environment to practice their swinging and pitching techniques. This controlled setting allows for year-round training without the disruptions of external weather conditions. Courtesy of the New York Mets Importance of the Investment Steve Cohen's significant investment in the Mets highlights the team's strategic focus on cultivating homegrown talent and ensuring long-term success. The construction of a new player development complex in Port St. Lucie reflects a commitment to modernizing the training environment, aligning with industry standards essential for developing young athletes. This initiative not only enhances the Mets' training facilities but also represents a crucial step toward building a competitive pipeline of talent. By fostering the next generation of baseball stars, the franchise is effectively setting the stage for a new era in player development that aims to contribute to the team's future achievements.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Clark Athletic Center 100 William T. Morrissey Blvd. Boston, MA 02125   UMass Boston basketball website Clark Athletic Center website    Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 2,000 Welcome to Beaconville   The University of Massachusetts Boston (more commonly known as UMass Boston) is the third largest of the five schools in the University of Massachusetts system. The University of Massachusetts Boston was established in 1964 to accommodate the growing number of college applicants from the Greater Boston area, who were overwhelming the UMass Amherst location (at the time, the only school in the state’s university system). The college was initially located downtown on Arlington Street before moving to its present location on Columbia Point. Today, the university boasts approximately 15,000 students enrolled in over 200 academic programs across the undergraduate and graduate divisions.   The Clark Athletic Center is named in honor of Catherine “Kit” Clark, a prominent community member from Dorchester. She was known for her contributions to sports and community service, leaving a lasting legacy through her involvement in the Savin Hill neighborhood and her advocacy for building sports facilities in the area. The Clark Center hosted the first debate between George W. Bush and Al Gore during the 2000 presidential Debates.   Members of Division Three’s Little East Conference, the UMass Boston men’s basketball team has qualified for seven NCAA Tournaments, advancing as far as the Elite Eight in 1977. The women’s team has qualified for one tournament in 2018.   Food & Beverage 1   There are no concessions sold at Beacons basketball games. However, there are a pair of vending machines in the lobby, should you need a drink or a snack during the game. It’s not much, but it will do. Fans are welcome to bring in their own snacks into the Clark Athletic Center if they wish.   Atmosphere 3   The atmosphere at a UMass Boston basketball game is fairly typical of the smaller Division three gyms that dot the New England landscape. It’s an entertaining time, if not an experience that’s going to overwhelm you.   The Clark Athletic Center Gym does have a nice video board at the far end of the gym, but it’s so far away from the stands that it really adds little to the experience. That’s too bad, because it’s a nice screen, and it shows replays and has some nice graphics. Small scoreboards at either end of the gym display only basic game information. Otherwise, the gym’s sound system is put to good use with music during play breaks. The PA announcer does a nice job of providing game information without being too intrusive.   The Beacons cheerleading squad leads the cheers from the stands and performs some routines during timeouts. They’re assisted by UMass Boston’s most unique mascot, Bobby the Beacon, who roams the sidelines interacting with fans and tossing swag into the stands. The fans here do a nice job supporting the team, but the vastness of the gym kind of swallows up much of the noise generated.   Neighborhood 3   Despite its location in Boston, UMass Boston’s location, isolated on a peninsula in the harbor, means that the campus is fairly self-contained and there is not much in the immediate vicinity of campus for visiting fans. There is a DoubleTree by Hilton close to the campus, but for most dining or lodging options, fans will have to venture out into Boston. Luckily, there are more than enough options for visitors to the city to find there.   Fans 2   UMass Boston attracts what we at Stadium Journey like to call a “Friends and Family” type of crowd. A typical Beacons basketball crowd here numbers between 200 and 300 fans. As the name suggests, just about every person in the stands enjoys a personal connection with the players on the court. So, as you might expect, the fans on hand are very knowledgeable and passionate about the players on the court, and very enthusiastic in their support. Stadium Journey visited the Clark Athletic Center for the Beacon’s season finale in 2026, which happened to be Senior Day. A crowd of over 400 fans was there to cheer on the Beacons.   One thing that is worth noting is the presence of an actual student section here, which is something not often seen at this level of basketball. The far sections of the bleachers were filled with students there to support their peers and heckle the opposition. Whether this is a nightly occurrence or just due to the occasion of Senior Night, can’t be said, but it was still great to see. With UMass Boston’s schedule consisting primarily of teams from throughout New England, it’s not unusual to see plenty of visiting fans in the stands.   Access 3   The UMass Boston campus is located on the Columbia Point peninsula on the shores of Boston Harbor. Also located on the grounds of the campus are the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and the Commonwealth Museum.   The campus is easily accessible by car via Interstate 93, which runs north/south into downtown Boston about a mile away from the campus’ entrance. Traffic is heavy virtually all the time in this area, so driving may not be the best way to reach UMass Boston. For those looking to utilize public transportation, the MBTA, known in Boston as the “T,” also serves the area. The red line’s JFK/UMass stop is located about a mile from campus. Three Commuter Rail Lines also stop at JFK/UMass. Due to the heavy traffic in the area and the distance from the subway stop to campus, shuttle buses run from the T-station to campus. A one-way Red Line fare costs $2.45.   The Clark Athletic Center is located in the center of campus. Also located in the Center is the Edward T. Barry Ice Rink. The UMass Boston Softball Field and Monan Park are right outside the Center. Parking is available in the Quad Lot right by the Center, or in the West Garage, a short walk away on the back side of the athletic complex.   Fans will enter the Clark Athletic Center on the second floor. Stairs and an elevator are directly in front of you as you enter the building. The gym is located at the bottom of the stairs. Seating consists of molded plastic bleachers that run along either side of the court. Only the bleachers on the far side of the gym are typically used for Beacons games.   Restrooms are located directly across the hall from the entrance to the gym. Although a bit cramped, they are plenty large enough for a typical Beacons crowd.   Return on Investment 4   There is no charge for admission to a Beacons basketball game. Parking in the lot adjacent to the Clark Athletic Center requires a campus permit or payment through ParkingApp.com . Failure to pay through the app will result in your car being ticketed. I’m not proud to say that I neglected to pay for my parking during my visit and returned to my car to find a ticket for $15 on my windshield. A search of the UMass Boston website showed that four hours plus parking in either the Quad Lot (by the Clark Athletic Center) or the West Garage will run you $15. So it’s really a wash. But I am not advocating trying to skirt the system, just expressing my gratitude that UMass Boston did not gouge me with a parking ticket.   Extras 3   The displays in the Clark Athletic Center earn the Beacons basketball experience an extra point. The UMass Boston Athletic Hall of Fame is located here, as are several display cases filled with hardware accumulated by Beacon teams over the years. Augmenting these displays are video screens and retired jerseys. A display of the school’s 1,000-point scorers hangs inside the gym.   Charlie Titus’ number 40 hangs above the court. 40 represents the number of years Mr. Titus coached the Beacons men’s basketball team. In addition to serving as a coach, Titus was the Athletic Director, Vice Chancellor for the Division of Athletics and Recreation, a key figure in the founding of the Little East Conference, and a member of its inaugural Hall of Fame class.   A final extra point is awarded for UMass Boston’s unique mascot, Bobby the Beacon. When it was decided that the school would be built on the shores of Boston Harbor, it was decided that a beacon would ideally highlight the university’s connection between the city and higher learning and would be the ideal symbol to represent the school’s athletic teams. Today, Bobby is a member of the Mascot Hall of Fame.   Final Thoughts   The Clark Athletic Center, while looking like a product of its time, still offers traveling fans a chance to take in quality basketball at an affordable price. While far from the bright lights of big-time college hoops, small gyms like this make for interesting Stadium Journeys. Don’t sleep on Division Three sports!   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 CFG Bank Arena 201 W Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21201 CIAA website CFG Bank Arena website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 14,000 A "New" Arena For Charm City The arena now known as the CFG Bank Arena has a long and storied history. It opened in 1962 as the Baltimore Civic Center. During its time as the Civic Center, the arena hosted legends such as The Beatles, Martin Luther King Jr., and Led Zeppelin, as well as being the home floor of the Baltimore Bullets of the NBA until their move to near Washington, DC in 1973. The indoor soccer team, the Baltimore Blast, as well as various sports teams have also made the venue their home over the years. The late 1980s remodel saw a name change to the Baltimore Arena. It also spent most of the early 21st century with the corporate name First Mariner Arena. and then the Royal Farms Arena. The Oak View Group, which was chosen by the City of Baltimore to manage the venue, closed down the arena in early 2022 to perform a massive renovation on the aging arena. The CIAA Tournament is the first event since the remodeling work was done. The official grand opening was the April 7, 2023 concert by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is a collegiate athletic conference, mostly consisting of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). CIAA institutions play at the Division II level of the NCAA. The CIAA is the first NCAA Division II conference to have its tournament televised as part of Championship Week on ESPN and it has become one of the largest college basketball events in the nation. The last day of the tournament is known as “Super Saturday” in which the men’s and women’s tournament champions are crowned. For 15 years, the tournament was held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The 2021 event was the first in Baltimore. The yearly event has now been extended through 2029 for Baltimore. Food & Beverage 4 There are only two major food stands open, along with various grab-and-go locations, for the event. This may change once the final renovations are done. It does appear that the arena is going to be more of a concert and entertainment venue that just happens to host a few sporting events along the way. This means the food and drink options are more aimed at the drinking crowd element than food. The Big Chicken and Koko's Bavarian Biergarten Brewery offer simple menus but the food offerings are quite good. Prices are not cheap but are at usual arena price levels. Atmosphere 5 The CIAA had been a major event in the past for Charlotte. It looks like the event is having the same kind of effect on Baltimore. Besides the tourney, there are concerts and events throughout the city during the event. A 14,000-seat venue is not a large arena, but not small either. A benefit of the unique design of this facility is that it tends to make it feel more intimate than it really is. Even the largest events there can feel like smaller ones. The effect of this also means that even less attended events can feel loud. Being a long, multi-day sporting event you will see varying amounts of fans in the stands. Some games will be more packed than others. There are alumni from all the schools attending the event and offering their cheers. There will be bands, mascots, cheerleaders, and dance squads for all of the schools, and they all offer a great addition to the atmosphere. There are some unique changes to the arena since last year. The main concourse has now been moved to the level above the main seating bowl. Walls have been removed to make this concourse now an open view to the action in the arena. This is a massive change to the venue. There are other changes in the seating bowl, such as walkways having been removed and new entry points being added. The arena had a single suite before the renovation and now has several suites and theatre boxes along with some private and premium club spaces. The arena has also gotten fresh paint jobs everywhere. The arena now has a grey and black modern look and feel. Neighborhood 3 The CFG Bank Arena is right in the heart of downtown Baltimore, with its numerous entertainment and food options close by. But the arena is a few blocks from the more touristy sections of town. And those few blocks can make a difference. I am not saying it is unsafe, as talk like that is far overblown in the city. One just needs to use caution and watch their surroundings. The 2015 riots in Baltimore City should not be forgotten, nor should they stop you from attending an event at the arena. Just be aware of where you are. If you do have some time before the game (or after…) a visit to the Pratt Street Ale House is only about a block away. They have good brews and food. Try the crab pretzel for a serious Maryland food experience. Venturing further away from the arena one of my favorites is the Abbey Burger Bar right near the Cross Street Market. The beer selection is good and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, all of which are likely to satisfy. For slightly more upscale cuisine a visit to the 1100-1200 blocks of North Charles Street where The Brewers Art and Sammy’s Trattoria offer good food at decent prices. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions such as Harborplace, Fells Point, and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is located on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, although its unique collection will not be for everyone. Fans 5 Tournaments will have varying fan bases, so it may change from game to game. I would imagine the extremely located schools have trouble filling the stands. Pep bands, mascots, and cheerleaders also make the atmosphere rival a big-time college environment. Access 4 The CFG Bank Arena is located in downtown Baltimore about a block from the Baltimore Convention Center and two blocks from Camden Yards. It is close to I-95, with only a couple of turns from the arena putting you on the highway home. Parking garages can be found in all directions from the arena. One garage is even physically attached to the arena. Look for parking deals to come with some event tickets. Street parking is not a great option. Return on Investment 3 The best value seems to be the all-tournament pass at $225. There are day tickets available and they do appear to be more expensive than in years past. Extras 4 Even with the updates to the arena, there are still some cool and unique seating structures around the venue. The weird old squared corner seats still exist but have now been rounded until a better format. The view should be much improved from those seats. It is things like that which will make the old-school design elements a feature in themselves. The fans themselves are an extra at an event like this. They support their respective teams very well and will make this an enjoyable event to attend. Check out the dance and cheer squads as they get the crowds excited. Final Thoughts This is not the same old Baltimore Arena that many may remember. The massive renovation work has transformed the venue into a state-of-the-art entertainment venue. And with a party-type event like the CIAA Tournament, you WILL have a good time here.

Photo Courtesy of the Harlem Globetrotters Celebrating a century of basketball wizardry, the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters  have officially launched their 100-Year Tour, a legendary milestone commemorating their founding in 1926. This centennial season—deemed the most storied in the team's history—features a reimagined live experience with new tricks, high-energy comedy, and a deeper level of fan engagement across more than 200 domestic markets. A Global Celebration of Basketball Magic The historic tour kicked off its North American leg on December 14, 2025, at New York's Madison Square Garden  before continuing throughout the spring of 2026. The celebration also extends internationally, with stops scheduled in over 125 markets across the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Mexico, and Asia throughout the winter and the remainder of the year. Fans attending this special tour will see the team debut their new 100-Year jerseys and play with the commemorative "Golden Basketball" created by Spalding. The current roster of elite athletes, who hold over 60 Guinness World Records, continues the legacy of legends like Meadowlark Lemon and Curly Neal by facing off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Major Arena and Coliseum Stops The 100-Year Tour is hitting some of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, and coliseums across North America. Upcoming and recent stops for 2026 can be found at the official Harlem Globetrotter’s website . Enhanced Fan Experience To honor the centennial, the team has introduced several premium "Once-in-a-Century" unrivaled fan engagement experiences available at most tour stops: All New Magic Pass:  Pre-game access & player meet-and-greets. Fans can enjoy 30 minutes of pre-game, on-court access to learn tricks, and meet players 90 minutes before tip-off. Celebrity Court Pass:  Join the team for warmups on the court! Provides exclusive center-court access to watch the Globetrotters' warm-up routines up close. VIP Bench Tickets: Sit directly on the team bench with the Globetrotters or Washington Generals for the duration of the game and immerse yourself in an up-close experience. Limited Edition 100 Year Golden Replica Game Ball  by Spalding, the most exclusive collectible to be ordered in advance and ready for you when you enter the venue.100 Year Tour Souvenir Ticket, which fans can order and have delivered to their homes to expand their experience even more. 5th Quarter Autographs : Every fan has access to a free post-game autograph session with the stars of the show. Tickets for the 100-Year Tour are available through the official Harlem Globetrotters website  with prices typically starting around $15, depending on the venue and seating selection.

Photo Courtesy of the UFL Highlights of the New Rules Four-Point Field Goal One of the most groundbreaking changes is the introduction of the four-point field goal. Successful field goal attempts from 60 yards or further will earn four points, which has the potential to dramatically increase scoring and fan excitement during long-distance kicks. One Foot In Bounds The rule requiring only one foot in bounds for a legal catch has been adopted from NCAA football. This change could lead to an increase in passing frequency and scoring plays, making the game more dynamic. Elimination of the Tush Push The UFL has decided to eliminate the Tush Push play, which has generated much debate regarding its impact on player safety and traditional football strategy. This decision could significantly affect short-yardage situations. No Punting Inside 50-Yard Line A new emphasis on aggressive play-calling has emerged with the rule that prohibits punting from anywhere inside the opponent's 49-yard line. This encourages teams to take risks and be more offensive. Overtime Guidelines The overtime guidelines have been revised to implement a fairer approach, where teams will alternate three attempts from the five-yard line until a winner is determined. This format emphasizes skill and increases excitement in tied games. Three PAT Options Teams will now have multiple options for points after touchdowns (PAT). They can choose from a one-point kick, a two-point conversion from the two-yard line, or a three-point attempt from the eight-yard line, allowing for greater strategic flexibility in game situations. New Kickoff Rules Kickoff will now take place from the 30-yard line, incorporating new setups for both kicking and receiving teams to enhance player safety. The receiving team's zone will stretch differently, and specific touchback spots will also be implemented. The full list can be seen here:   UFL New Rules . Will the NFL Adopt UFL Rules? While the UFL's changes aim to innovate the game, whether the NFL will adopt similar rules remains uncertain. The NFL has a long-standing tradition and a unique set of strategic elements that could resist such bold innovations. However, if these new rules prove to enhance viewer engagement and improve player safety, the NFL might be prompted to consider adopting some aspects in its future seasons. The UFL's new rule changes for the 2026 season represent a significant shift in football's landscape, aimed at delivering a more exhilarating game. The league's commitment to innovation highlights a potential future where the NFL might also adapt its rules to keep pace with fan expectations and the evolving nature of the game. What are your thoughts on these new rules from the UFL, and would you like to see them implemented in the NFL?

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 W.B. Mason Stadium Blessed Basil Moreau Dr North Easton, MA 02356 Stonehill Skyhawks football website W.B. Mason Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 2,400 The Sky’s The Limit   Many who follow college sports in New England were surprised when tiny Stonehill College, a school with an undergraduate enrollment of 2,500 students, announced in April 2022 that they were elevating their athletic programs to the Division One level and becoming a member of the Northeast Conference. The private Catholic school is located in North Easton, Massachusetts on the original estate of Frederick Lathrop Ames Jr. It was founded in 1948 by the Congregation of Holy Cross.   W.B Mason, a business supply company headquartered in neighboring Brockton purchased the naming rights for the facility. The company, led by CEO and Stonehill alumnus Leo Meehan, pitched in $1.5 million of the $4 million construction cost of the stadium. The playing field is dedicated in honor of Tim “Cogs” Coughlin, a class of 1980 alumnus and member of the Stonehill football team, who lost his life in the attacks on the World Trade Center. In addition to serving as home to the Skyhawks football team, W.B. Mason also serves as home to Stonehill’s field hockey, lacrosse and track and field teams.   Stonehill has sponsored football teams since 1988, using the nickname “Chieftains” until 2005. Stonehill football competed in Division Three until 1996, when they moved up to Division Two, staying there until 2021. The Skyhawks joined the Football Championship Subdivision’s Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2022. Since moving to Division One, the Skyhawks have compiled a record of 14-28. Approaching W.B. Mason Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Food & Beverage 3   W.B. Mason Stadium lacks permanent concession facilities. A tent is set up for Skyhawk football games beyond the north end of the grandstand operated by Bon Appetit Dining Services. The menu here features stadium standards, with a few rotating specialty items (i.e. cheesesteaks and bratwurst) thrown in to expand the menu on a given day. Coca-Cola products are featured at Stonehill athletic events.   In addition, a beer garden operated by nearby Shovel Town Brewery is located just beyond the north end zone. They feature a selection of their excellent microbrews, including a special collaboration with Stonehill athletics, Hillhaus, an Oktoberfest Marzen.   Atmosphere 3   Fans who have been visiting Stonehill regularly since the program’s elevation to Division One in 2022 will have observed the evolution of the gameday presentation at W. B. Mason Stadium, including the development of some Stonehill traditions and the overall improvement of the gameday experience. The staff have incorporated some giveaways and fan involvement into the gameday, such as having younger fans in attendance challenge Ace the mascot to a dance contest, students kick field goals for a television, and more. The music and PA announcements are slick and professional, and while this is certainly a small-school experience, it’s a fun time.   There does not seem to be a dedicated student section at W.B. Mason Stadium, but there is an active tailgating scene and enthusiastic fanbase. If you arrive early to the stadium, the parade of fans heading to W.B. Mason from the parking lot at McPhadin Library right before kickoff is very amusing. The sound system is quite good, and as mentioned before, the music and PA announcer add a lot to the atmosphere. The cheerleading and dance squads perform throughout the game. The school installed a brand-new scoreboard in the north end zone during the 2025 season. While it looks much nicer than the old one, it doesn't offer any new features.   Ace roams the stands at W.B. Mason Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 2   Stonehill College’s sprawling campus keeps it hidden away from the hustle and bustle happening just beyond the campus borders. Stonehill is located on the Brockton/Easton town line, and state routes 123 and 138 intersect at the southwest corner of campus. Both roads are pretty busy commercial routes, lined with businesses, strip malls and plenty of dining and lodging options for visiting fans. Stadium Journey recommends checking out Stoneforge Grill or Brach’s Grill and Tap for your pre- or postgame meal.   While you may not find many attractions in the immediate vicinity of Stonehill, Boston is located just a half hour’s drive to the north. Visiting fans will find no shortage of things to do there. Fans looking for lodging options close to campus should check out the Residence Inn by Marriott located just off Route 24.   More information about local accommodations, restaurants and attractions can be found here .   Fans 2   Even with W.B. Mason Stadium’s rather small capacity, the entire undergraduate enrollment could fit inside. So, it’s not surprising that there are not huge crowds at Skyhawk football games, but average attendance since the program’s elevation to Division One has hovered at around 2,000 fans per game. Crowds over the years have tended to start off big and decrease over the course of the season.   There’s a decent, if not overwhelming, turnout by the student body. The majority of the fans in attendance appear to be locals, many of whom have a connection to the players down on the field. With the NEC’s compact geographic footprint, you’ll be sure to see a good number of visiting fans in the stands.   An interesting characteristic of a Stonehill crowd is that they are late arriving. Tailgating is allowed in the parking lots near the stadium right up until kickoff, and it seems that a good percentage of the fans in attendance keep the party going until the last possible minute. It’s pretty interesting to see the foot traffic increase along Blessed Basil Moreau Drive as kickoff time approaches. Stonehill game action at W.B. Mason Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4   Stonehill College is located in suburban Easton, MA, directly to the west of the city of Brockton and 25 miles south of Boston. The campus is easily accessible, as both Interstates 495 and 93 lead to Route 24, which runs north-south just a mile from W.B. Mason Stadium. The stadium is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to some of Stonehill’s other athletic facilities, including Lou Gorman Field  and the Sally Blair Ames Athletic Complex.   Fans will find ample parking in the lot in front of the McPhaidin Library located a short walk from the stadium, as well as several other parking lots scattered around campus. All of the lots are just a short walk to the stadium. The entrance to W.B. Mason Stadium is located on the southeast corner of the facility, with the grandstand on the opposite west side of the stadium.   Seating consists of a single grandstand that runs the length of the field. The center sections contain individual molded plastic seats, with the rest of the seating consisting of metal bleachers without backs. This new grandstand is fully ADA compliant and easily accessible for all fans. Fans looking for an alternate viewpoint can take advantage of the standing room along the southern edge of the field.   Unfortunately, the presence of a track surrounding the football field pushes the seats a bit further from the action. This is a common feature of the multi-purpose fields that are found at smaller schools. Rest rooms are located in the Sally Blair Ames Athletic Complex, with additional port-a-johns available behind the grandstand.   Return on Investment 5   Tickets to Skyhawks games are sold as general admission, with tickets priced at $15. Seniors 65+ and students can purchase tickets for $10.   Parking is free in the lots near the stadium. With inexpensive concessions, an afternoon at a Stonehill football game is a very affordable entertainment option for southeastern Massachusetts sports fans.   Stonehill Athletics Hall of Fame in Sally Blair Ames Field House. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1   An extra point is awarded for the Stonehill Athletic Hall of Fame located adjacent to W.B. Mason Stadium in the Sally Blair Ames Field House. During games the team store is also set up here.   Final Thoughts   W.B. Mason Stadium is smaller facility which fits perfectly into the fabric of tiny Stonehill College. Now that the Skyhawks are a full-fledged member of Division One, they are no longer a program in transition, but the game day experience continues to evolve.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Lou Gorman Field 320 Washington St. North Easton, MA 02356 Stonehill Skyhawks baseball website Lou Gorman Field website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 500 Lou Gorman Field On April 5, 2022, tiny Stonehill College, a private Catholic school located in Easton, Massachusetts with an enrollment of 2,500 undergraduate students, announced it was moving all of its athletic teams to the NCAA Division I level, effective in the fall of 2022. Prior to 2022, Stonehill was a member of the Northeast-10 Conference in NCAA Division II. Upon its elevation to Division One, Stonehill joined the Northeast Conference. Stonehill’s athletic teams competed for years as the Chieftains. In 2002 the school decided to change its nickname. After considering several options, Stonehill officially changed its nickname to the Skyhawks in 2005. This name has no connection to a bird or animal but does have a connection to the school’s history. After the school’s property was purchased by the Congregation of Holy Cross, an airfield on site was leased to the Navy during World War II and to private companies afterwards. The airfield was closed in 1955 as the college grew, but the Navy continued to use the land for training exercises and would employ the Skyhawk aircraft between 1954–1995. Lou Gorman Field is named for the Stonehill alumnus and former Seattle Mariners and Boston Red Sox general manager. Food & Beverage 0 There are no concessions sold at Lou Gorman Field. Fans are able to bring their own snacks in to enjoy while watching the game. Hot beverages from the nearby Dunkin’ are popular choices on chilly Massachusetts spring afternoons. Atmosphere 1 With the limited resources available at Lou Gorman Field, you wouldn’t expect a fancy game day experience and you sure aren’t going to get anything extravagant here. The Stonehill staff set up some portable speakers which are used for announcements and between-inning music. A simple scoreboard located beyond the left field wall presents basic game information. If there’s a lacrosse game going on next door at W.B. Mason Stadium at the same time as the baseball game, the noise from the larger stadium will totally overwhelm anything produced by the baseball crew. What noise is produced at Lou Gorman Field is generated by the players on the field and the fans in the stands. There isn’t much of a turnout by the student body, but the family members and friends in the stands are certainly enthusiastic. If you like being able to hear the chatter on the infield and coaches barking directions at the players, a game at a small facility like Lou Gorman Field is for you. Neighborhood 3 Stonehill College’s suburban location and sprawling campus belies its location in a bustling area with many dining and lodging options for visiting fans. State routes 123 and 138 intersect at the southwest corner of campus. Both routes are pretty busy local roads, lined with strip malls filled with the usual national chains alongside a few local eateries in both directions. Stadium Journey recommends checking out Stoneforge Grill or Brach’s Grill and Tap for your pre- or postgame meal. While you may not find many attractions in the immediate vicinity of Stonehill, Boston is located just a half hour’s drive to the north. Visiting fans will find no shortage of things to do there. Fans looking for lodging options closer to school should check out the Residence Inn by Marriott right by Route 24. More information about local accommodations, restaurants and attractions can be found here . Fans 1 Stadium Journey attended a game during Stonehill’s first ever home series as a Division One team. It was a cold and raw March afternoon which drew under 50 fans to Lou Gorman Field. Crowds are certain to increase as the weather warms, but you shouldn’t expect a huge turnout for a Skyhawks baseball game, at least while the program is still in its infancy. The majority of fans in the stands have a personal connection to the players on the field, and are enthusiastic in their support. A Skyhawks crowd can most accurately be described as a “friends and family” type of crowd. Access 4 Stonehill College is located in suburban North Easton, MA, directly to the west of the city of Brockton and 25 miles south of Boston. The campus is easily accessible, as both Interstates 495 and 93 lead to Route 24, which runs north-south just a mile from Lou Gorman Field. The stadium is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to some of Stonehill’s other athletic facilities, including W.B. Mason Stadium , Merkert Gymnasium and the Sally Blair Ames Athletic Complex. Fans can park in the lot in front of McPhaidin Library, located a short walk from the field. A walk across the soccer practice field will bring fans to the ballpark. Be warned that there are no paved walkways around Lou Gorman Field. Fans with mobility issues should tread carefully. Seating consists of a pair of metal grandstands without backs, one behind home plate and one down the left field line. There’s also ample room for people who would like to bring their own chairs or stand at the fence and take in the action. Several port-a-johns are located next door at the football stadium and are available for use for baseball fans. For fans who don’t mind a walk, there are permanent facilities in the library and in the Ames Athletic Complex. Return on Investment 5 Admission to a Skyhawks baseball game is free of charge, as is parking. With no concessions, you can attend a Division One game here without spending a cent. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the Skyhawks’ purple 80’s-Astros style uniforms. Final Thoughts College baseball just isn’t a big deal in the northeast. The short season and unpredictable spring weather in this part of the country ensures that you’re not going to find fancy ballparks around here. Lou Gorman Field is no exception to this rule. It’s a basic facility that suits the needs of Division One’s newest baseball team. There’s plenty of room here for the Skyhawks to grow. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.