Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Dudy Noble Field at Polk-Dement Stadium 145 Lakeview Dr Starkville, MS 39759 Mississippi State Bulldogs website Dudy Noble Field at Polk-Dement Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 13,000 The Carnegie Hall of College Baseball Mississippi State alum and author John Grisham once said “Great things come from humble beginnings” – nowhere does this statement ring truer than at Dudy Noble Field on the campus of Mississippi State. Opened in 1878 as Mississippi A&M, the school’s location was selected for excellent soil conditions, as the school was a farming and agriculture school. Dudy Noble Field opened in 1967 and was built on a former cow pasture. At one time cows even grazed in what would become the outfield, but this was before the crowds and before the trips to Omaha – in the 50 years after its opening, this tiny little baseball field in the farmlands of northeast Mississippi would transform itself into the Carnegie Hall of college baseball, and the home of college baseball’s greatest fans. Now Mississippi State is the largest university in the state and a national powerhouse in baseball year in and year out. Dudy Noble Field at Polk-Dement Stadium opened its doors in 1967; Noble was a baseball coach at MSU from 1920 until 1946 and was also the athletic director from 1938 to 1959. The Bulldogs have a very historic baseball program dating back to 1909 when they won the first Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAC) Championship – the Bulldogs would win the championship five more times before becoming one of the founding members of the SEC in 1936. Since joining the SEC, MSU’s baseball program has grown into one of the more storied baseball programs in the country, with 13 SEC Championships, 39 Regional Appearances, 12 trips to Omaha, and 14 first-round draft picks, but the pinnacle of Mississippi State baseball occurred in 2021 when the Bulldogs captured their first ever National Championship. This is an elite college baseball program that plays in the finest facility in the country. After the 2017 season, the university decided to strip everything down and re-build the venue – the “new” stadium opened in 2019, and what has transpired is a $50 million renovation that has made Dudy Noble Field a stunning place to watch a baseball game and made it the top-ranked college baseball stadium in the country.   Food and Beverage   4 There are plenty of food and drink options for you to choose from, with 16 points of sale located throughout the ballpark, including three full-service built in stands. You'll find three Hail State Eats stands with one behind home plate, one down the first baseline, and the last down the third baseline. Each of these stands is grab-and-go to speed up the process; you can get the usual fare at Hail State Eats and the prices are quite reasonable. Continuing down the first baseline you will also find a Chick-fil-A stand, two portable beer stands, a gourmet popcorn stand, and a gourmet hot dog stand – make sure to try the Grand Slam Super Dawg if you're on this side. New for 2024, the Super Dawg is a foot-long sausage topped with brisket, pickle slaw, BBQ sauce, and pickles served on a split-top roll. Down the first baseline, besides the Hail State Eats stand you also have options such as a boiled peanut stand, another Chick-fil-A stand, and a Dippin’ Dots stand. Another unique Southern-themed item you can find on this site is pork rinds from Rev's Famous Pork Skins – these are a big hit among State fans. In the outfield you'll find several food trucks lined up in center field; each game the food trucks change, but you are always bound to find something different than you'd find on the concourse. Alcohol was recently made available at The Dude, and you can buy beer at all the stands, as well as a broader selection at the two portable beer stands on the concourse. And of course, if you are friends with or make friends with one of the thousands of people set up tailgating in the outfield you are bound to get extended that Mississippi Southern hospitality, getting invited back to their spot in the outfield for some more delicious food. Mississippians love their cuisine, and in the outfield, you name it you can find somebody cooking it. On my most recent visit, I even saw some people having a crawfish boil out here.   Atmosphere   5 One word can describe the atmosphere at Dudy Noble and that is “electric”. You know you are in a special place, and on college baseball’s most hallowed ground, from the moment you pass the Rafael Palmeiro and Will Clark statues outside the main gate. Collectively known by their nicknames “Thunder” and “Lightning”, Palmeiro and Clark are two baseball legends who’ve achieved folklore status at Mississippi State; the duo led the Bulldogs to Omaha in 1985. Clark, the 1985 Golden Spikes Awards winner, would then have a 15-year career in the Big Leagues playing for multiple teams, while Palmeiro would go on to have a prominent 20-year career with the Rangers  and Orioles . There are three entrances into the stadium – one behind home plate on the southwest side of the stadium and the other two in the outfield. The main gate opens into a spacious and wide concourse that empties into the seating bowl. There are two levels with 20 suites, and both levels are usually packed with maroon and white. The views of the condos in left field, and just the overall surroundings, are breathtaking. The climate-controlled Omaha Club is located on the first base side on the second level, and an LED board also wraps around the ballpark, which makes for quite a surreal experience for those nighttime SEC games. You are free to walk the entire stadium and through the outfield sections. The entrance in right field opens into a plaza area that houses the Ron Polk Ring of Honor; Polk is another revered person at Mississippi State who coached the Bulldogs from 1976 to 1997 and again from 2002 to 2008. Polk’s career coaching record stands at 1218-638-2, which places him 9th all-time among college baseball coaches. His teams have won five SEC Championships, participated in 23 regional appearances, and took eight trips to Omaha. At the entrance behind home plate, you'll find the 2021 National Championship trophy on display, as well as the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Stark Vegas” sign. Then right past the Ring of Honor is some berm-type seating that is usually packed with lawn chairs and general admission ticketholders, but the outfield area is what makes Dudy Noble Field so special. In the 1970s fans started driving their trucks to games and parking in the outfield, and fans began tailgating in the back of their pickup trucks the entire time. Eventually, the trucks were left behind and bleachers were constructed on top of them – for over 30 years this area was known as Left Field Lounge. After the 2017 season, the school began doing an extensive renovation on the stadium that resulted in the removal of the trucks and the makeshift bleachers that had, despite violating many safety standards, been a landmark of the university. Many diehard fans were outraged that this tradition was going to be scrapped, but after seeing the finished product I think most will be pleased with the outcome. This whole area is now lined with one big, elevated party deck with several makeshift bleachers set up. And if you want to watch the game from your back porch you are in luck too, as looming over left field is a 12-unit, four-story condo called the Left Field Lofts – though pricey, the Lofts tower over left field, which only adds to the spectacle that is the Left Field Lounge. Thousands of friendly Bulldog fans young and old can be found there tailgating during games, which creates what is considered the number one atmosphere in all of college baseball; these fans are known as college baseball’s greatest fans, and it shows.   Neighborhood   4 Mississippi State is unique in that it is a big SEC school in a really small town, void of many attractions, as the college itself is the main attraction in town. Because there are not a lot of big cities nearby, Starkville has kind of developed its subculture, lacking a lot of national chains and malls – many of the restaurants are local to the area and use local farms instead of big-name producers. The Cotton District is the main area of town for nightlife; located just off campus within walking distance of Dudy Noble Field, “The District”, as it’s known, is home to multiple bars and restaurants. The Cotton District is unique in that many of the neighborhood’s buildings resemble those you’d see in New Orleans and Europe, as the developer of the neighborhood traveled there for ideas during the mid-1990s – some of the better-known restaurants and bars located here are Bin612, Drifters, Bulldog Burger, The Fountain Bar, The Klaassroom, Two Brothers Smoked Meats, and StaggerIn. The Bin is a late-night favorite among college students who flock to the bar for its famous cheese fries – when the bars close around 1 am you can find a huge line of college students stretched around the whole block waiting to get the famous fries. In addition, Two Brothers Smoked Meats has really good smoked wings and its signature white BBQ sauce, while Bulldog Burger has a huge selection of different burgers. The Cotton District is a small one-block area that gets packed with a lot of college students, especially on weekends, so the older crowd of alums may want to venture more towards downtown if they want to avoid hanging out with the younger crowd. Just a short walk down University towards downtown you’ll encounter more bars and restaurants, such as Little Dooey – this BBQ joint prides itself on its smoked BBQ, fried catfish, and other Southern favorites. Right next door to Little Dooey is Stromboli’s; this tiny rinky-dink-looking Italian eatery doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the pizza being cooked can be smelled from across the street. Right behind Stromboli’s is Central Station Grill, which is built into an old milk plant – the Grill is known for its brunch and drink specials, while yet another favorite in this area is Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern, a pub-style bar famous for its pizza, located on the side of a sketchy looking motel. If you come in on your birthday you get a free 24-inch pizza for every fourth person you bring. This dimly lit tavern also has really good live music and is the place that attracts the mid to late-20s crowd. Besides the above, a couple of bars and restaurants downtown I recommend checking out are The Beer Garden at Hotel Chester, which is an outdoor bar in the courtyard of a historic hotel, and the State Theatre, which is a 3-story club-type bar. Restaurant Tyler is my favorite restaurant for lunch, however, as it has a cheap seafood blue plate special, and in its basement, there is a bar called Downstairs at Tyler, located in a former speakeasy that was used during prohibition. Oby’s is another favorite of mine that features some of the best seafood, sandwiches, and po’ boys in Starkville. A popular Sunday morning tradition in Starkville is to have breakfast at Starkville Café – this tiny cafe located downtown often has a long line wrapped around the building on Sunday mornings, filled with people wanting to get the best southern homestyle breakfast in the area. After breakfast make sure you walk upstairs to Hobie's on Main; owned by Hobie Hobart, a diehard Miss State baseball fan, Hobie's bar has a lot of vintage State memorabilia on the walls. Hobie also owns the famous Right Field Tiki Hut located in right field at Dudy Noble Field, which is a notable fixture at State baseball games.   Fans   5 You will not find a more faithful or loyal fan base than the fans at Mississippi State – on any given weekend expect to find packed crowds for all three games of the series. State fans are passionate about the program, and it shows here at Dudy Noble Field, which currently holds the NCAA record for single-game on-campus baseball attendance at 16,423, set when Ole Miss visited here in 2023. In addition, the top 19 of the top 20 largest crowds in college baseball history were all seated right here. Fans have also created some traditions such as the playing of Garth Brooks’s “Friends in Low Places” during the 8th inning, and of course, there are the cowbells – fans here are allowed to bring cowbells to the game, and though not as loud as the cowbells at a Bulldog football game , they still create a raucous and intimidating atmosphere. Fans along the outfield have also been known to feed the outfielders in between innings. On any given weekend expect close to 12,000 in attendance for each game – most of the seats are packed and it’s standing room only on the concourse and in the outfield deck. A good thing about coming to a big game here is that they won’t sell out, though; they may have every seat in the stadium filled, but fans are still able to purchase tickets and find somewhere to stand. There are also multiple TVs spread out around the concourse to watch the game on as well.   Access   3 The one drawback to coming to a game in Starkville is that the city is located in kind of a secluded area of the state. The closest major cities of Tupelo and Meridian are both located over an hour away, and the closest major airport is over an hour and a half away in Jackson (although there is a smaller Golden Triangle Regional Airport located nearby in Columbus). Only two roads are coming into Starkville, which are Highway 82 which runs east to west, and Highway 25 which runs north and south. Starkville has recently become more accessible to other areas in the state thanks in part to the upgraded Highway 45, which is located just outside of town, and is the main road you would travel on if coming from the coast or central Mississippi. Make sure you fill up on gas before embarking, however, as there aren’t many stations on the roads heading into Starkville – it’s more of a peaceful rural drive through the backwoods. Once in Starkville prepare for lots of traffic congestion, as the town is small and the roads are not exactly the nicest. Parking around the stadium can also be a nightmare as the lots fill up quickly; my suggestion, if you are in town for a weekend game, would be to park at one of the lots on the south side of campus and walk from there. There are usually several lots open just south of Davis Wade Stadium , and you can even cut through the famous football tailgating spot The Junction on your walk to The Dude.   Return on Investment   4 It is extremely hard to get chairback tickets, as they have sold out every year since 2019 – most of these are reserved for season ticket holders, or there is a waitlist to get tickets. Your best bet when coming to a game here is to purchase the general admission ticket for $15; you will not get a seat for this, but you are free to roam anywhere in the concourse or the outfield, and you are free to bring a lawn chair and sit wherever you want. Concessions prices are fairly cheap here as well. Because the level of SEC baseball is so high, almost any weekend you attend a game during conference season is going to be a ranked matchup. So, for less than $20 you usually get to see a top-10 matchup at one of the top-rated college baseball stadiums in the country, and most of the on-campus parking is free as well.   Extras   4 Super Bulldog Weekend is a big event for the community during the spring, with hundreds of food and arts and crafts vendors lining the streets of the Cotton District. Usually held during the Spring Football Weekend , this event always coincides with a big SEC baseball series. The games during this weekend usually attract a higher crowd than usual as well – in fact, most of the attendance records at Dudy Noble Field have been set during Super Bulldog Weekend. One extra for the Left Field Lounge and the overall atmosphere and game day presentation that the Bulldogs present – everything is top-notch here and it shows. There truly is not a better atmosphere for a college baseball game in the country, save for the College World Series. Another extra goes to the university for properly honoring the history of its baseball program. Bulldogs baseball has a very successful history, and you can see that everywhere you go at Dudy Noble Field, from the Will Clark and Rafael Palmeiro statues behind the home plate entrance to the Ron Polk Ring of Honor in right field. The university is very proud of its history, and it shows here – though Palmeiro had a somewhat controversial Major League career he is still revered at Mississippi State, and in addition to the statue the Bulldogs practice facility next door to the ballpark bears his name as well. In addition, walking the concourse you'll find banners signifying important years and big wins in the program, as well as banners honoring past players, including historic names like Buck Showalter, Jonathan Papelbon, and Boo Ferriss, to current names like Adam Frazier, Mitch Moreland, Brent Rooker, and Nathaniel Lowe – there are currently eight former Bulldogs on the MLB’s 40-man rosters. The 2021 National Championship trophy is also on display at the front entrance, next to the famous 'Welcome to Fabulous Stark Vegas” sign. Another extra for the stadium itself and the diehard fans who support the MSU baseball team. Most sports at Mississippi State experience up and down years, and the fans tend to be fair weather. That is not the case for the baseball team – the fans here support the program, with almost every game guaranteeing a sellout. It also helps that the Bulldog baseball team is one of the top teams in the country year in and year out.   Final Thoughts Coming to a game at Dudy Noble Field is truly a bucket list experience for baseball fans at all levels. From the grills in left field to the fans and their thousands of cowbells being rung, these all add to the spectacle of attending a game here and are something everyone should experience. Attending a game here brings everyone together whether they are baseball fans or not. As John Grisham also said, “I always feel like a better person after leaving a game at Dudy Noble Field”.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Tiger Arena 3219 College St Savannah, GA 31404 Savannah State Tigers website Tiger Arena website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 5,000 The Coastal Cats of Savannah State Note: Savannah State Athletics have moved to the NCAA Div 2 level. Savannah State University is one of oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HCBU) in the country, as it opened its doors in 1890. Today its campus in the Midtown neighborhood of Savannah is home to a student body of 4,900 students. The largest majors at Savannah State are in the areas of Business Administration, Liberal Arts, and Science and Technology. Due to its location on the Georgia coast, it also offers programming in Marine Biology and certification classes for personnel who will be working in the Homeland Security field. The Tiger athletic programs play at the NCAA Division I level in the MEAC conference. The basketball program calls the Tiger Arena its home court, opened in 2000 with a capacity of 5,000. It is located on campus within the athletic complex. The arena is also the home of the Savannah State University Sports Hall of Fame. Savannah State is known to take on a very challenging schedule in its athletic programs. They are not afraid to take on major schools from the power conferences. Unfortunately, this has led to some rather dubious NCAA records for the school. In 2004, the team finished 0-28, the only time a school has gone through a complete season winless. The school also holds the record for the least points scored in a half (4) in an 85-25 loss to Kansas State in 2008. The team performs very well within the MEAC Conference. Food & Beverage 3 There are two concession stands on the upper level of the arena. They serve a very basic set of items, but at extremely low prices. The entire menu consists of hot dogs ($2), nachos ($4.25), popcorn ($2), candy ($2), chips ($1.50), bottled water ($2), and Coca-Cola brand sodas ($2). It would be a good idea to load up on something more substantial prior to the game and then rely on the concession stand for a snack. Atmosphere 3 Despite the Tigers woes on the court, the atmosphere in the stands is one of celebration. The arena sets the stage for this by having the interior area of the building in the school colors of bright hues of orange, blue and white. Like many of the other HBCU schools, the band plays on a nonstop basis, which has the fans dancing in the aisles. The Tiger mascot, the Savannah State cheerleaders, and the Sapphire Dance Line also do a great job in keeping the spirits high during the game. In some respects, a Savannah State game is like a family reunion, as the opposition often has some players who attended high school in the local area. This is especially true for crosstown rival Armstrong State University, as well as schools such as South Carolina State or Georgia Southern University. Neighborhood 4 Savannah State University is located in the Midtown area of metropolitan Savannah. This is 5 miles east of downtown Savannah and its Historic District, and 16 miles west of Tybee Island and the Atlantic Ocean. This makes it very accessible to the many attractions and fine restaurants Savannah has to offer. Restaurants in and around the Savannah State campus include Chili’s, Baldino’s Subs, Bojangles, the Overtime Sports Bar and Grill, and the Coaches Corner. Baseball fans can enjoy the Savannah Bananas games at Historic Grayson Stadium, which is just five miles from the campus. Savannah is a tourist mecca and lodging is available to meet anyone’s budget. Accommodations in the downtown area along Bay Street are the most expensive, as are the oceanfront properties on Tybee Island. The most reasonable accommodations from a price point are near Savannah Mall along Abercorn Street. This is one of the city’s main thoroughfares and is only minutes away from Savannah State or any of Savannah’s many tourist attractions. Fans 3 You can typically expect a crowd of around 2,000 people for a Savannah State men’s basketball game, with sellouts limited to “backyard brawls” with neighboring institutions Armstrong State University or Georgia State University. A major portion of the crowd will be Savannah State students, as the arena is located adjacent to some of the largest dorms in the area and a very large apartment complex located just off campus. Savannah State’s alumni base is largely from within the city, as the school was at one-time commuter based. They may be gray around their temples, but they are true blue and orange in their hearts. The third component of the attendees comes from neighborhoods throughout the local area that has no official link to the Tigers. Savannah State is the only Division I sports program in town, and it receives a great deal of local media attention as a result. Access 4 The directions to Savannah State University and Tiger Arena are quite simple. Take I-16 East to exit 165 (Abercorn Street). Make a right on Abercorn Street, then a right onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Turn left onto Victory Avenue and stay on it until you enter the small village of Thunderbolt. You will then turn right on Whatley, which will bring you directly to the main gate of Savannah State University. There will be a staffed gate attendant, and you just need to let them know your destination is Tiger Arena. They will hand you a campus map, but it is hard to miss, as it is a tall white, blue and orange building. Free parking is available directly outside the arena. Once inside you can enter the court level at either floor level or go upstairs (via elevator or stairway). The lower level is bench seating as it is of the rollout variety. The upper seating is plastic chair back seating. The aisles and concourses are wide, and you will have no difficulty in navigating them, even at halftime. The concessions and restrooms are adequate for the typical turnout for a Savannah State game. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to games are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military personnel, and $5 for youth. There is no charge for parking in the lot adjacent to Tiger Arena. The concession offerings are very basic but quite inexpensive. A night out with the Tigers will not burn a hole in your pocket. Extras 3 March Madness in Savannah has nothing to do with basketball. On March 17 of each year, the city of Savannah hosts the second largest, after New York, St. Patrick’s celebration in the country, with thousands more taking part. The celebration includes a 5-hour long parade, dyeing the Savannah River green, and revelry all day and all night along the city’s historic River Street. You can also take drinks to go in plastic cups in this area of town only. Six basketball players from Savannah State University have gone on to play for the Harlem Globetrotters. A third extra has to go to the location of Savannah State’s campus. You can enjoy a lively nightlife on River Street within a matter of minutes of the campus or if it is a nice spring day you can be on the beach at Tybee Island in less than a half an hour. Final Thoughts Tiger Arena offers free parking, inexpensive ticket and concession prices, plus beautiful Savannah to enjoy after the game-try not to enjoy yourself while in town.

It’s something many sports fans take for granted; the ability to see and hear a sport’s game action, the fans, the public address announcer, the music (even if it is too loud at most venues), and often, those never-ending advertisements. Four years ago I attended a game with Reggie Deal, a blind baseball sports fan as he traveled to all stadiums in 30 days. Recently I interviewed super-sports fan, Gary Noll, who is deaf. I was eagerly apprised of what features sports venues can include for fans who can’t hear at all (or those with hearing impairments). These features can help deaf fans with the game day experience and enhance their passion and excitement of the game. While I find myself muting the Stanley Cup playoff game broadcasts on TV because the announcers talk too much about things not related to the game, it never occurred to me that someone who cannot hear might yearn that kind of yammer. But that’s TV, not a live game. Several legal battles in the United States have occurred over the last five years or so where fans have filed suit claiming inadequate closed captioning at sports venues. Cases include University of Maryland College Park (Maryland Stadium and Comcast Center), University of Phoenix Stadium ( Arizona Cardinals ), and Ohio State University, to name a few. At a live game for most sports venues in the United States, it is required by the ADA (American Disabilities Act) to have visuals for deaf fans. Basic things like: Captioned public service announcements, including pre-game information Play by play information and score Referee penalty explanations In-game entertainment announcements Advertising End-of-the-game announcements, final score and information regarding the next home game Beside the items listed above, Gary Noll recommends stadiums include the following as a part of their closed captioning: Evacuation/safety information Entertainment and celebrations happening on the field Celebrity sightings Promotions being offered Fan club or other membership information Song lyrics And as importantly, make the closed captioned letters BIG on the scoreboard/video board so fans in faraway seats can read the messages. This recommendation would be a benefit for all fans, not just those who cannot hear. Gary also suggests the following: Post closed captioning on ancillary scoreboards/TVs throughout the concourse (not just in the area where the game is played) Employ highly-experienced captioning vendors as how they portray the spoken word makes a world of difference Engage or hire an individual (at guest services or otherwise) who knows American Sign Language (ASL) so deaf fans can meet, greet and send a big hello using that language Position the closed captioning in all areas of the venue so no matter where a deaf fans sits, he/she can read the words Also recommended is if the venue has a big screen outside the stadium like Air Canada Center or the indoor Madison Square Garden lobby, include closed captioning on those screens as well. The scoreboard, ribbon banners and preferably the video board is the best place for closed captioning, according to Gary. Handheld devices don’t work well as looking at a handheld device prevents a fan from watching a fast paced game such as hockey or soccer. And deaf fans need their hands free for American Sign Language (ASL) communication, eating food, applauding, etc. Understandably there’s a cost associated for all of this. The technology available today for closed captioning includes prerecorded segments and live segments. Prerecorded segments at sporting events could include safety and evacuation instructions, advertisements, traditional song lyrics, and even common promotions. Trained caption writers, using special captioning software, transcribe the audio portion of the segment into a computer, inserting codes that determine when and where each caption will appear on the screen. Live segments could include the public address announcer, referee/umpire explanations, and play by play information. Currently, there are four types of captioning for live events: stenographic captioning (the only method available to caption a live, unscripted sports event), manual live display, electronic newsroom, and a hybrid system. With technology advancing so quickly, perhaps five years out, there can be the ability for a radio broadcaster’s play by play call to be voice recognized and immediately captioned on a stadium’s video board. Thanks, Gary, for our conversations and your continued effort at advocating features that will enhance deaf fans’ sports entertainment enjoyment and appreciation.

Photos by Google Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Deepdale Sir Tom Finney Way Preston PR1 6RU Preston North End website Deepdale website Year Opened: 1875 Capacity: 23,404 Into the Deep Deepdale is one of England’s oldest and most famous grounds. It is also home to Preston North End, one of the founding members of the Football League. Up until 2010, it was also home to England’s National Football Museum until its relocation to Manchester where it opened in 2012. Deepdale has been completely rebuilt into a 23,404 all-seated stadium and despite languishing in England’s third tier, it is a Premier League venue. The record attendance for the ground was set way back in 1938 when 42,684 witnessed a game against Arsenal. New Deepdale consists of four separate stands named after the club's most famous players: Sir Tom Finney, Bill Shankly, and Alan Kelly. The fourth is named the Invincibles Stand. A statue of Sir Tom is located outside of the stand named after him, called “The Splash”. Deepdale is also famous for having one of the first artificial pitches in Britain when one was laid in 1986. It was eventually replaced by grass in 1994. Food & Beverage 3 There are ample catering kiosks within all four stands that provide hot dogs, burgers, chips, pies, and mushy peas. A beer will cost you £3.50 and a pie £2.80. The Butter Pie which is made by the local Clayton Park Bakery a few miles from the venue is quite popular with supporters and is highly recommended. All of these are reasonably priced and the food is of good local quality. Atmosphere 3 Although the atmosphere of old Deepdale can never be replaced, the new version when full can become a close second. If North End can one day return to the top flight of English soccer where they were once one of the top dogs back in the 40s and 50s, then this will certainly be an outstanding venue to view English football. Neighborhood 3 Preston is a pleasant industrial city with a wide range of shops and public houses. The Mystery Tea Shop in the city center offers specialty teas and coffees in addition to Starbucks and Costa Coffee. Yate’s Pub, around a fifteen-minute walk away, is a regular watering hole for supporters as is the Sumners public house located on Tom Finney Way. You can also park here for 3 GBP which can be redeemed at the bar when purchasing food and drink. The nearby Sainsbury’s Supermarket also has its restaurant. There is a host of places to eat in the City Centre around a mile and a half away. Nearby Blackpool is one of England’s most famous seaside resorts. Fans 3 Preston North End has a loyal hard core of over 10,000 supporters and also takes a good following to away games. They would easily sell out if they were in the top division and locals are always welcoming when visiting. Local rivals are Blackpool, Blackburn, and Burnley, and derby games against these teams are well worth attending. Access 3 The stadium is easily reached by exiting Junction 31 of the M6 motorway and then following signs for Preston. Turn right at the Hesketh Arms roundabout onto Blackpool Road and you will eventually pass the stadium. Preston Railway Station is on the main west coast line to Scotland and is approximately one and a half miles away. Regular buses will run on a match day to Deepdale. Manchester and Liverpool Airports are both about one hour away. Return on Investment 3 Admission prices range from £5 for children up to £21 for adults with reductions for O.A.P’S. This is about the norm for this level of football although prices in the north are generally slightly cheaper for the same standard of football than those in the south. Extras 3 There is a club shop outside Deepdale selling a range of replica kits and souvenirs. Betting kiosks are available inside the stadium concourse in the vicinity of the catering outlets. A match day program is produced for all games priced at £3.

Photos by Benjamin Evensen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Alaska Airlines Arena 4131 15th Ave Seattle, WA 98195 Washington Huskies website Alaska Airlines Arena website Year Opened: 1927 Capacity: 10,000 Husky Basketball Alaska Airlines Arena, or “Hec Ed” as it’s known around Seattle, has been home to University of Washington basketball since it opened in 1927. The stadium sits on the University’s campus and right next to Husky Stadium where the football team plays. The arena is named after Clarence S. “Hec” Edmundson, who coached Husky basketball and track and field from 1920-1947. Hec Ed has also been the host of two Final Fours, in 1949 andparksbusesthe1952. In 1999, the arena underwent major renovations, costing $40 million in all. Seats, locker rooms, athletic offices, and Hall of Fame sections were all overhauled and replaced in the renovations. The seating capacity was brought up to 10,000, which is what it still is at today. It is the third-smallest arena in the Pac-12. Hec Ed is also home to Husky women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics teams. Food & Beverage 2 The food at Hec Ed is nothing special, but simply what you would expect at a typical sporting event. Their basics are there; hot dogs, pizza, candy, soda, etc. But nothing stands out. This does come as a surprise though, as the other Seattle sports stadiums such as Lumen Field , Climate Pledge Arena , and T-Moble Park have many food options that are unique to the Seattle area. The options at Hec Ed are underwhelming, to say the least, but they are not bad either. Prices are your typical, overpriced stadium prices as well. Atmosphere 4 Hec Ed has been the home of Husky basketball for over 70 years, and in the rafters of the stadium hang the banners of Pac-12 Championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and more from other sports. The arena has a feeling of the entire history of Husky basketball; the good times, the bad times, and everything in between. That being said, there is still just something lacking. The University of Washington has not had much success in its history of men’s basketball but the arena is certainly a place with a lot of history that has come with its age. It is different than that of Kansas, Duke, or North Carolina – schools where the atmosphere of the stadium is tied with championships, Final Fours, All-Americans, and legendary coaches. Hec Ed just doesn’t deliver the same type of historical feel. It isn’t a must-see in the world of college basketball, but it’s still a unique venue that brings a very strong sense of pride to Husky athletics. Neighborhood 4 While it may be a smarter idea to drive, as the arena isn’t within short walking distance to many attractions, the area around the campus in North Seattle is one of the best in the country. The campus is right on Lake Washington, and the views of the mountains in the distance are breathtaking. University Village has many unique options to get a bite to eat, and if you hop on I-5 for a short drive into downtown Seattle, famous attractions such as Pike’s Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Waterfront are more than doable or after the game. Fans 5 The University of Washington is the premier college school in the city of Seattle, and the loyal following of Huskies across the Pacific Northwest flock to Hec Ed to support their team every home game. They are loud, proud, and very into the game. The student section is always packed and very into the game, sporting the purple and gold, along with crazy costumes to add to the fun. The stadium was about 95% full, and for a midweek game, that is certainly not bad. The fans were very into the game, and as it came down to the wire, they made sure to be loud and created a very intense environment. Access 4 With Husky Stadium immediately next door, there is more than enough parking for the much smaller seating capacity-wise arena. Prices are expensive though, so expect to pay around $10 to park in the lots next to the arena. Getting to the arena can be a hassle if you are unfamiliar with the area, but it shouldn’t cause too much of a problem. If you do not plan on doing anything before or after the game, an option I choose to use quite a bit is the metro service. There are many parks and rides across the Eastside and south of Seattle, and buses always run right to the arena. It can be a great way to avoid problems getting in and out of the stadium parking lots, and getting home in a faster, more efficient manner. If you do choose to drive yourself, you should not expect to run into many problems. Return on Investment 2 The University knows how popular they are around the Seattle area and takes full advantage of that in their ticket prices. Even for the very top levels, you can expect to pay $36. The mid-levels are in the $40-$50 range and only go up from there. But that only is when they are playing just any-old team. In the case of my game, that was Stanford, which big-time does not have much of a following in Seattle. It is much more expensive for a team like Oregon who has a large following in the area. Tickets for those games are about $20 higher than normal rates for the nose-bleeds, which is nowhere near the value of the experience. You can expect that for games against Oregon, Oregon State, instate-rival Washington State, and other big-time programs that may come to Seattle. Unless you have strong ties to those schools, I do not suggest attending games vs those schools. For most games, when the prices are “normal,” it still can be frustrating how much you are paying. For just a college basketball game, I have a hard time convincing myself that it is worth around $80 per person with the ticket price, parking, and food for just one game – and that isn’t even against a “marquee” opponent. You might be better off paying about $20 per person (including tickets and food) at Key Arena for a Seattle U basketball game, who also is a division 1 basketball program. Extras 5 One of the best things about Hec Ed is the other attractions inside the arena. The school’s athletic Hall of Fame is open to everyone inside the arena and has bowl game trophies, historic sports memorabilia, and walls of famous Husky moments in all sports. It which a must-see if you attend a game there. There also is a large team store in the arena, with lots of Husky apparel and memorabilia available for sale. Final Thoughts As far as college basketball arenas go, Alaska Airlines Arena is just not a “must-see” arena. It feels old at times, lacks more than basic food options, and is severely overpriced. Yet for Husky fans, it still holds so much history to the University, and once inside, it certainly is not a bad place to see a basketball game. It just is not a “top-level” venue in the college basketball world. Around the arena, there is a beautiful campus, a city, and so much to do. If you have the budget, making a trip to Seattle with a Husky basketball game as part of the plan will make for a very fun day. It holds a lot of value to the millions of Husky fans in Seattle, and you are not going to have a bad time going. If you love Husky basketball and are in the Northwest, then you are in for a nice time going to a game at Hec Ed.

Photos by Google Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Select Car Leasing Stadium Shooters Way Reading, England RG2 0FL United Kingdom Reading FC website Select Car Leasing Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 24,161 The Mad Stad Select Car Leasing Stadium is home to the English Football Championship club Reading and was formerly named Madejski Stadium after their Chairman Sir John Madejski. The stadium was built in 1998 following the club's departure from their Elm Park residence of over one hundred years. The stadium has an all-seated capacity of 24,161 and also hosts the home games of the Rugby Union club London Irish. Food & Beverage 3 Once inside, the stadium is well served by food outlets selling a range of hot dogs, burgers, pies, and stir fry noodles as the vegetarian option. A hot dog retails for £3.20 with tea and coffee priced at £1.50 per cup. Pepsi is slightly overpriced at £2 a cup with lager costing £3 per pint. The kiosks also sell chocolate and crisps. Atmosphere 3 By Championship standards, Reading is a well-supported club with an average attendance of 18,000. However, despite playing to a three-quarters full stadium for most home games the atmosphere within the ground can at times be quite muted. The noise levels do increase against sides with large away followings, however, this is mainly when Reading plays local derbies or one of the bigger clubs. Neighborhood 4 The town of Reading is situated in the county of Berkshire and is a mere forty-minute drive from London and Heathrow Airport. The stadium is within easy reach of Junction 11 of the M4 Motorway adjacent to the A33 which runs directly into the Town Centre. The Mad Stad, as it is nicknamed locally, is a typical new British stadium development situated on the outskirts of town surrounded by retail parks. If it is here that you wish to while away the hours leading up to kick off then it's visiting DIY Superstores that will be the order of the day. There are also fast food outlets here in the form of Pizza Hut, Mcdonald's, and KFC. A better recommendation would be to take the three-kilometer journey into town where you will find the Oracle Shopping Centre with its selection of High Street stores, Bars, Coffee Shops, and Restaurants including one from the Jamie Oliver range. These are located in the pleasant canal side area of the complex. Fans 3 Reading supporters are not renowned for being the noisiest in the land, however, the core fan base has grown from approximately eight to eighteen thousand since the club took up residence at the Madejski. Those supporters who wish to spend the duration of the ninety minutes singing and chanting congregate in the East Stand which adjoins the South Stand, the end where away supporters are located. Access 3 The stadium is easily reached by a car exiting Junction 11 of the M4 motorway which runs between Bristol and London. There is plenty of parking, but be aware that this is limited to two hours in the retail parks. The official car park is for season tickets and guests only, but paid parking is available for £8 per vehicle and is between a five and ten-minute walk away. The nearest railway station is Reading Central and Bus 50 arrives and departs from directly outside the stadium. Return on Investment 4 Unless Reading is playing one of the big four then tickets for most matches can be easily purchased in advance over the internet or by arriving early on the day of the game. Ticket prices are £23 and £26 if purchased in advance but rise by £4 if bought on the day. There are discounts for those under 16s and OAPs. This is the average cost of a ticket for the English £10 to increase attendance. Extras 4 There is the normal superstore selling a wide range of both Reading and London Irish merchandise situated by the main entrance to the stadium. A match day program is available for all home games priced at £3. All sporting venues in Britain are now nonsmoking areas, however, Reading allows supporters out onto the concourse at halftime to enable smokers to get their fix, which is particularly needed when their team is losing.

Photos Courtesy of Cal Poly Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Alex G. Spanos Stadium 1 Grand Ave San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 Cal Poly Mustangs website Alex G. Spanos Stadium website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 11,075 Mustang Football With less than a decade remaining until its centennial anniversary, the California Polytechnic State University football program remains the top football draw for the state’s central coast. While the basketball team plays at Mott Gymnasium and the baseball plays in the beautiful Robin Baggett Stadium , the Alex G. Spanos football stadium may be the crown jewel of Cal Poly athletics. First opened in 1935 as Mustang Stadium, the venue has been undergoing renovations since 2006 to bring the capacity to 22,000. The stadium is named after Alex G. Spanos, current owner of the San Diego Chargers. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions were surprisingly limited for what appeared to be a large crowd in the expanding venue. Some of the larger items included the tri-tip sandwich ($7), Vienna beef hot dog ($4), Johnsonville bratwurst ($4), nachos ($4), kettle corn ($6), peanuts ($3), sunflower seeds ($3), soft pretzel ($3), churro ($2), cheeseburger ($4), fries ($3 with chili and garlic add ons for an additional fee), and sweet potato fries ($4). Some of the more popular and unique items included Lucy’s chocolate covered strawberries ($5), or a Poly Pineapple (strawberries, pineapple juice, and pineapple sherbert for $5). The beverages included bottled water ($2), canned soda ($2), Monster Energy ($4), lemonade ($3), iced tea ($2), and coffee/cocoa ($2). An interesting addition was a Cal Poly food truck on site that offered some additional options. I could see this being something utilized on more and more campuses nationwide to add additional concession capacity when necessary. Atmosphere 3 Despite the state of California offering many reputable football programs, few can boast a setting as beautiful as that surrounding the stadium. Views of Bishop’s Peak and San Luis Mountain can be seen from within the stadium. Even with the serene surroundings, the inside of the stadium still provides a lot of excitement. Prior to all kickoffs, fans rise up to support their Mustangs. Musty the Mustang & the cheer team are on the sideline throughout the contest inspiring fan interaction. The loudest interaction takes place after a Cal Poly first down when the PA announcer says, “First Down,” and the fans respond “Mustangs!” Neighborhood 3 I always enjoy a visit to San Luis Obispo as there is a variety of different settings that a fan can explore. Closer to campus fans can find a Carl’s Jr, Pita Pit, Subway, The Shack and Nucci’s pizza. Both Indian and Thai restaurants are also nearby. I would recommend heading to downtown SLO if time allows. In the vibrant downtown area surrounding the San Luis Obispo creek, fans can find bars, restaurants, shops, theaters, and art galleries. If fans are willing to take a short trip north to Paso Robles, they can experience wine tours at places such as J. Lohr Vineyards or brewery tours at the popular Firestone Walker Brewery. If you cannot find something for you in San Luis Obispo, try the nearby towns of Morro Bay, San Simeon, Shell Beach, or Pismo Beach for a variety of entertainment options. Fans 4 Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Cal Poly football program provides local fans their pigskin fix. The recent stadium expansion should be a testament to the passion of the fan base. The student section opposite the grandstand was definitely the most animated, but it seemed that all parts of the stadium were contributing to the noise levels. As previously stated, this is the closest college football program for many fans of the central coast, so much of the fan base has been following the program for years. During the contest, I overheard many such fans reminiscing about the conference title years under previous head coaches Andre Patterson and Rich Ellerson. Access 3 Once you’ve made it to the central coast, getting to Cal Poly is a breeze. Fans will not experience the traffic problems of the Bay Area or Southern California. Parking on campus requires a pass for $6, but exercise caution in the lot you choose as some of them require a bit of a walk to get to the stadium. The restrooms were a bit on the small size for the expanding venue. There were only approximately seven stations in each restroom I visited, but perhaps these will be modified during the ongoing expansion. The stadium offers a single scoreboard at the north end of the stadium and I did notice that it is difficult to see from certain vantage points. Return on Investment 4 As many of the Cal Poly fans have been following the program for years, the season tickets are very popular. Reserved seats are available for $80 for the full season. If fans just want a single game or to attend a few, the reserved adult tickets are $20 and $15 for seniors/youth. General admission seats go for $15 for adults and $10 for seniors/youth. With parking at just $6 and concessions priced at levels fans would expect at any local eatery, the whole experience turns out to be an extremely reasonable value. Extras 3 My first extra goes for the scenery surrounding the stadium. I’ve mentioned some of the mountains that surround campus which provide the perfect backdrop. Fans can also walk up to the upper level of the west end seats for some panoramic views of the stadium. It is a bit removed from the action, but can provide some great perspective in watching the plays develop. Behind the scoreboard fans will find a small rose garden and fountain. This serene setting offers a relaxing place to get away from the action. Lastly and most importantly is the Mustang Memorial Plaza outside of the stadium. During the 1960 football season, an airplane crash took the lives of sixteen Mustang players, the team’s manager, and a football booster. The plaza was constructed in 2006, and is certain to evoke emotion from all sports fans. A mustang statue sits in the middle and is surrounded by 18 copper pillars, one for each member of the Cal Poly program affected by the crash. Final Thoughts After enjoying both the baseball and basketball programs at Cal Poly, the football program certainly did not disappoint. The campus remains one of the most beautiful in California and the fanbase makes it one of the more memorable sporting experiences in the state.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 LECOM Harborcenter 100 Washington St Buffalo, NY 14222 Canisius Golden Griffins website LECOM Harborcenter website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 1,800 The Griffins Golden Home Located just north of downtown Buffalo, Canisius College is a small, private Catholic college of approximately 3,900 students. The Canisius Golden Griffins compete in the NCAA, Division I, but struggled to find an appropriate home on campus. Without a home on campus, for many years, the Griffs played at Division III Buffalo State; a slightly embarrassing ordeal for the school. Relief for the Griffins came in 2014 with the opening of HarborCenter. Part of the redevelopment of downtown Buffalo, HarborCenter is direct across the road from the home of the Buffalo Sabres, KeyBank Center. A larger complex, also housing a Tim Hortons, 716 Food and Sport, and the Buffalo Marriott, HarborCenter has become a busy hub, downtown. In 2017-2018, HarborCenter, along with KeyBank Center, hosted the World Junior Hockey Championships. HarborCenter is owned by Pegula Sports and Entertainment, the same owners of the Buffalo Sabres and Bills. Having played Division I hockey since 1980, Canisius currently plays in the Atlantic Hockey Conference. The highlights of Canisius hockey have come from current NHL player, Cory Conacher, their 2017 Atlantic Hockey Conference regular season title, and participation in the 2013 Frozen Four tournament after winning the Atlantic Hockey Conference Tournament. The KeyBank Rink at HarborCenter has been a great move for the Griffins with an increased presence in the Buffalo area. However, a few years into their habitation at HarborCenter, a greater following was expected. Food & Beverage 4 Being a busy facility with several different tenants, HarborCenter offers a solid array of concessions. Conveniently provided by the (716) Food and Sport, which is on the ground level, concessions are better than your average, small, NCAA hockey facility. There are two small concessions behind the seating sections and two main concessions, one at the ice level and one behind the seating bowl. Chicken tenders, pizza ($4.50), fries, onion rings, pizza logs, popcorn ($2/$4.50), nachos, and pretzels are all available along with other grill items. However, some items that may not be expected include fruit, protein bars, peanut butter, banana sandwiches, and hummus dip. A full smoothie bar is also on hand. The soda of choice at HarborCenter is Coca-Cola and its products ($2.50/$3). Bottled water and Tim Hortons coffee products are also available. Very surprising is the alcoholic beverage selection at HarborCenter. Labatt Blue, Blue Light, and Bud Light are the staple beers that can be found, but local brews like One Buffalo and Southern Tier IPA are also available. Wine is also available. Atmosphere 3 Located in downtown Buffalo, HarborCenter fits right into the downtown area. However, if there is one thing it does not look like is a hockey arena. The exterior of HarborCenter is very nice with a sleek modern look but truth be told it looks a little bit more like a condominium or office building than a sports venue. With the recent World Junior Hockey Championships being hosted by KeyBank Center and HarborCenter, several displays and attractions are remaining in the Canalside area. Just across the road from HarborCenter is the bronze statue of Buffalo Sabres legend Tim Horton. There are also a few bronze bison statues across the road, which can be found in many places in the city. Inside the HarborCenter building, fans must ascend by an elevator to the seventh floor to reach the KeyBank Rink. The home of the Golden Griffins, as well as other local teams, immediately stands out with its bright interior due to LED lighting. Fans will also immediately notice the throwback to old-school hockey venues with the curved, hardwood ceiling reminiscent of the old hockey barns. The ice surface runs from east to west with the main concourses behind the seating area. Smart-looking grey brick gives the arena a clean and crisp look. Canisius markings are rather limited due to the arena’s multi-tenant nature, but at the west end of the arena, fans can find the 2013 Atlantic Hockey tournament championship banner along with a banner honoring First-Team All-Conference members. The seating bowl is not huge or overly comfortable. Essentially nine rows of wooden benches require standing, but on the plus side, the sight lines are terrific. The game day experience is a decent one. The Canisius pep band, the Blue and Gold Gang gives the game the college feel and the PA announcer has lots of energy. An interesting moment occurs at the beginning where the PA announcer asks for a moment of silence and reflects fans to Canisus’ Jesuit roots and reads the Jesuit code against oppression. Neighborhood 5 Being in downtown Buffalo, there are a host of places to eat and drink before or after a Golden Griffins game. Some of the best spots to eat include Washington Square, Liberty Hound, Cobblestone Bar & Grill, Iron Works, Lagerhaus 59, and a personal favorite, Pearl Street Grill. Across from the bronze statue of Tim Horton himself, you will of course find a large Tim Horton’s coffee shop. However, the big buzz is for (716) Food and Sport. This is a very popular spot and is being compared to the Real Sports Bar and Grill which has become so popular outside the Air Canada Centre in Toronto. HarborCenter is located right across the street from the KeyBank Center, which is home to the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL and the Buffalo Bandits of the NLL. Up the road is Coca-Cola Field, which is home to the Buffalo Bisons . The Golden Griffins play their basketball games on campus at Koessler Athletic Center which is about four miles away. Other options, if you are in the city, would include Buffalo Bills football in Orchard Park or Buffalo Bulls football or basketball in Amherst. If you are looking for something else to do in the immediate neighborhood of HarborCenter, Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino is just up the street. As far as accommodations go, there are several hotels in the vicinity of HarborCenter. The closest hotels are the Buffalo Marriott, located right at HarborCenter, and the equally convenient Courtyard by Marriott, right across Scott St from HarborCenter. Fans 2 Since moving to KeyBank Rink @ HarborCenter, the following at Canisius hockey games was expected to increase. However, attendance has remained fairly flat for the Griffins. Usually averaging around 1,000 fans per game, Canisius attendance is near the bottom of NCAA schools in the mid-fifties. There is not a lot of buzz in the stands from the fans and the student section, which is in section 7, is often fairly empty and fairly quiet. Although the KeyBank Rink capacity is only 1,800, often it remains legitimately half full. A better experience would be aided by a stronger, more passionate fan base. Access 4 Getting to HarborCenter is pretty easy. HarborCenter is located just across Perry Street from First Niagara Center in downtown Buffalo. It is located near major highways, south of I-190 and east of the Buffalo Skyway. With downtown Buffalo attracting more and more people, parking is becoming a more significant issue. The first try for parking should be in the garage in HarborCenter. If that is not available, an attendant will direct fans to the correct parking lot. This is crucial as parking for a Sabres game versus parking for a Golden Griffins game is about a $14 difference. The Metro Rail Special Events Station is just east of HarborCenter and is free to ride “above ground.” Some buses travel the area. Interested fans should check out the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority website for maps, fares, and schedules. The main ticketing gate is at the east side of the building and out of the elevator, on the seventh floor. It is a portable kiosk. Getting around the arena is not a problem at all. Although the washroom facilities are not huge, they are more than adequate for a crowd of around 1,000. There is also ample room in the concourse for traveling around. With more fans in the stands, washroom facilities could be a bit of an issue. Return on Investment 5 A Canisius Golden Griffins hockey game provides a solid return on investment for the sports fan. Although the lack of fan support may leave the experience a little lacking, the minimal investment that is to be made by the fan makes up for it. Tickets for the Griffs go for $20 for a rail seat, $15 for reserved seats, and $10 for general admission. Unless rail seating is an absolute must, the $10 general admission ticket is the way to go. Parking should go for around $3 and concession prices are not too bad. The product on the ice is solid, as with most NCAA hockey experiences and Canisius does what it can to provide a solid hockey atmosphere. Although the rabid fan base is not there, the investment is so low that fans really can’t complain. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Canal Cup rivalry with Niagara. Located essentially up the road in Lewiston, the Niagara Purple Eagles are a similar school in size and location and a great rival for the Griffins. An extra mark for the great view of Buffalo from the seventh floor of HarborCenter. An extra mark for the recognition of the high number of Canadian players and fans in attendance with the playing of the Canadian National Anthem before games. Final Thoughts It is a little disappointing to see that the Canisius Golden Griffins have not found a stronger foothold in the Buffalo sports market since moving to the KeyBank Rink @ HarborCenter. That being said, catching the Griffs is a solid sporting experience. The investment is so low and the product on the ice is exciting in a decent college atmosphere. HarborCenter is a great facility and worth checking out. _______ Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram .

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 FAU Arena 777 Glades Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33431 Florida Atlantic Owls website FAU Arena website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 5,000 Winning in Paradise   The story of the 2023 NCAA basketball tournament was the Florida Atlantic Owls making a surprising run to the Final Four. That means they are now a very popular draw, which presents challenges for the stadium traveler. The Owls play out of the Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena, which holds just 2,900 (though a sellout is considered 3,161), and almost all seats belong to season-ticket holders or are reserved for students.  The secondary market has seen very high prices, but tickets that are returned from the visiting team are made available at the box office. That is your best bet, other than enrolling as a student and picking up a student ticket the day before.  Even then, that's no guarantee of entry as the student capacity of 750 is often exceeded, and some students are sent home. Everyone loves a winner, and the Owls are certainly that these days, even after moving up to the American Athletic Conference. So, if you are fortunate enough to get in, what is the experience like? Food & Beverage 2 The biggest weakness here is a limited selection of food and beverage options. There is a single concession stand inside the main entrance with typical arena fare. The cheapest food items are small popcorn and small cotton candy at $6, while almost everything else is $8 (hot dogs, nachos with cheese, pretzels (add $2 for queso), hamburgers (add $1 to make it a cheeseburger) and a large popcorn). Snacks are limited to chips for $3 and boxes of candy for $4. Coca-Cola products are $5, as is Powerade, while water is a buck cheaper. Beer is reasonably priced at $7 for domestic (perhaps the only place where beer is cheaper than a hot dog) and $8 for imported, and there is even wine for $9 and Prosecco for $10.  Fans should eat before or after the game as several good establishments have a short drive to the arena. Atmosphere 5 The venue opened in 1984 and was initially called FAU Arena, with The Burrow added as a nickname (there is still a sign outside indicating this). The campus features burrowing owls on campus, contributing to the arena being nicknamed The Burrow. In November 2022, Eleanor Baldwin donated $7.5 million, and the arena is now named after her (and nicknamed The Elly). The team won 20 straight games after the change of name, adding a bit of good luck. Inside the main entrance is a large lobby, where the trophies from last season are on display, as well as a single concession stand. If you have lower bowl seats, you can enter the gym on this level and walk up to your seats; if you are on the upper level, you have to use a stairwell on the correct side to reach a walkway at the top of the building and then walk down to your seats. The two levels of seating on both sides are separated by metal bars; you will need to know where your seat is. On the second level,  behind one net, is a large club area that leads to some suites. You need a special ticket to enter this area.  Students take up the entirety of the lower bowl along the same side as the cameras, in other words, facing the logo. There are two smaller student sections behind each basket as well. Sellouts have attendance listed at 3,161, and students make up about 25% of this number, which gives the arena a fantastic atmosphere from well before tip-off. It can be loud, so if that bothers you, you can stay outside until closer to game time. I think this is what most fans do, as the upper bowl took a lot longer to fill up. By game time, though, nearly every seat was taken, and the crowd was energetic. There is no scoreboard above center court, which gives this small venue a more open feel. At the far end is a huge video board that shows highlights and all the player and team stats.  There are two mascots: Owlsley is the grown-up, and there is also Hoot, who seems to be a baby owl. Both were very active during the game, as were the cheerleaders and dance team, who are known as the Fly Girls. When FAU slams a dunk home or hits a key three-pointer, two students run flags around the court. It was a very dynamic atmosphere until the final buzzer.  Neighborhood 4 The FAU campus is self-contained and bordered by the Boca Raton airport to the northwest, Spanish River Road to the north, Glades Road to the south, and a creek to the east. It is quite a large area, and walking to any eateries outside the campus is not recommended. However, several establishments are within a short drive.  In particular, downtown Boca Raton is just 10 minutes away and has dozens of restaurants and bars that should offer something for everyone. Slightly closer to campus is the Irishmen pub, while the Town Center at Boca Raton is just to the southwest of the campus and includes Tap 42 Craft Kitchen and Bar, as well as a Hooters, among other joints. Of course, the Atlantic Ocean is right there, and there are a few beach parks within a 15-minute drive of the arena. There are many hotels within the vicinity of FAU, though prices can be high during the winter season. You may want to stay a few minutes away to save some money. On the campus, the FAU Fogelman Sports Museum is nearby and open for a few hours every day except Monday. It is free and contains quite a bit of sports memorabilia and is worth a visit if you have time in the area. Fans 5 It was an hour before the tip, and the student section was mostly full. It is because student capacity is so limited (many students were turned away a week before the game). Students show up early to grab a seat, which is great to see. A student section that cares about their team, and they stood for most of the evening. By the time the game started, the arena was full, and it stayed that way until the end of the game. Fans are loud and proud and deserving of their fantastic Final Four run last year.  Access 4 FAU is located next to I-95 and is easy to get to by following your GPS. You do have to drive a bit on campus to get to the free parking lots immediately surrounding the arena. Getting out is pretty easy, too as you can be on the highway in just a couple of minutes. Inside, there is not a true concourse but a lobby that leads to the main gym for those in the lower seats and the stairwells to the upper level for fans in those seats. As such, there is no real difficulty in getting around. The single concession stand does see long lines before the game, so if you need to eat, get there early or wait until the game starts. Restrooms are a bit difficult to find, but there were no lineups there that I saw. Return on Investment 4 This might be the most difficult area to rate because tickets are hard to come by, and you can pay close to $100 on the secondary market. As mentioned, tickets that are not used by the visiting team are returned and made available at the box office, which is likely your best bet to snag one. I saw a small lineup more than an hour before the game, so if this is your plan, you need to arrive early.  Parking is free, but food is a bit expensive. Still, this is one of the best experiences in college basketball, with a talented team playing in front of a passionate crowd in a small, intimate venue.  Extras 3 The floor is adorned with palm trees, one of the more attractive court designs in college basketball. I always appreciate the attempts to add a bit of local flavor to the court.  The trophies in the front lobby for both the men and women merit a point. There are photos and other displays inside some of these stairwells that are worth checking out. Final Thoughts Overall, FAU is the epitome of what college basketball should be: a small school that maintains a small arena where students get the best seats despite the team's rise to national prominence. I don't know how long this combination will last, so if you want to enjoy this experience, you should get there in the next few seasons to appreciate all that the team has to offer the fans.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 FBC Mortgage Stadium 4465 Knights Victory Way Orlando, FL 32816 Cure Bowl website FBC Mortgage Stadium website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 45,000 The Cure Bowl Finds a New Home Having played several years at Exploria Stadium , and Camping World Stadium before that, the Cure Bowl moved in 2023 to a new home at UCF’s FBC Mortgage Stadium. Home to UCF football , this facility already features everything needed for college football game day experiences. Aside from this, the Cure Bowl continues to be the only bowl game each year to raise money for charity, donating profits to cancer research.   Food & Beverage   5 After having average food options for many years, UCF invested in local businesses and upgraded their options. By far the star of the concessions at FBC Mortgage Stadium is Four Rivers BBQ; this central Florida BBQ restaurant has become a local favorite, and can now be found at the Cure Bowl as well. Other popular options at the stadium are the Knights Dog (featuring an all-beef hot dog topped with shredded pork, queso blanco, onions, and salsa), nachos ($7), chicken Caesar wraps ($10), and pretzels ($7). Drink options include souvenir sodas ($10 with $5 refills), Truly VodKA Sodas ($9), beer ($9-$10), BodyArmor Water ($7), and bottled water and soft drinks ($4-$5.50).   Standard stadium fare is also easy to find, as are other local favorites like Kelly’s Ice Cream.   Atmosphere   3 The facilities at FBC Mortgage Stadium are immaculate as well, with restrooms constantly restocked with paper towels and soap. The pre-game tailgating is incredibly vast, covering nearly every open lot and green space on campus for hours before the game even starts, reaching from the lots at the stadium itself across campus to the far corners of the academic buildings. The fans are also sport-knowledgeable and know their favorite players well. During night games, the new LED lighting adds to the look of the field, adding colored hues during performances and flashing on and off whenever a team scores. While known for its party atmosphere during UCF football home games, during the Cure Bowl the facility doesn’t feature some of the more well-known items such as Lights Up, Lights Down, or fans bouncing up and down to the tune of dance music to make the “Bounce House” shake.   Neighborhood   4 FBC Mortgage Stadium is located on the campus of UCF; both the immediate area around the stadium and the campus itself are chock full of places to find food and shopping. Just outside the stadium’s main gate are Addition Financial Arena  and UCF’s baseball stadium ; here you can also find the UCF campus bookstore and associated Starbucks, as well as Burger U, the campus bar and burger/wings joint frequented by fans and students. Outside of campus, you can find Blaze Pizza, Tijuana Flats, and countless more restaurants. For somewhere to stay, the closest options are Hilton Garden Inn and DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando East. Fans in the area are also less than an hour from Cocoa Beach and Kennedy Space Center to the east, while to the west they can find downtown Orlando and Lake Eola Park.   Fans   3 The atmosphere at the Cure Bowl is different from most, as all those in attendance are helping to contribute to a worthy cause. The crowd is smaller than some of those at bigger bowls – this is partially a result of the Cure Bowl tie-ins, which usually result in smaller schools from mid-level conferences being invited, with App State  and Miami (OH)  highlighting the most recent match-up. Fans nonetheless can get a taste of the pageantry of bowl games; there is also plenty of beautiful scenery with downtown Orlando just to the east.   Access   3 The biggest difficulty of game day at FBC Mortgage Stadium is the parking and traffic in and around the stadium. Being that the stadium is located on campus, the roads in and out of the facility are small and get clogged quickly. Parking lots and garages fill up fast, so getting to the stadium early helps avoid a longer walk from across campus. Thankfully, with the Cure Bowl happening in December, many students are finished for the semester by the time the game rolls around, and a smaller crowd than UCF home games usually have means fewer people to contend with. Thankfully, the school has done a great job of managing the traffic flow in and out of campus. Additionally, new updates to FBC Mortgage Stadium’s ingress and egress mean no longer having to enter a gate and navigate the entire concourse to find your seat.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets to the Cure Bowl are affordable compared to most games, starting at $35 for the lower half of the stadium that is open, and with the money going back to a worthy cause, it’s hard to argue why someone would want to attend this game. Getting the experience of a college bowl game is always enjoyable for sports fans in general, and getting to watch one in Florida in the winter makes it even better. Orlando is blessed with great weather, never too cold or too hot in December, meaning you will be comfortable no matter where you are from.   Extras   2 The Cure Bowl organizes a survivor’s march to the stadium featuring cancer survivors and bands from each of the participating schools, starting at Burger U and ending at the stadium gates. Outside the main entrance to FBC Mortgage Stadium stands a statue of former head coach George O’Leary; this is a popular photo spot for fans.   Final Thoughts The new home for the Cure Bowl certainly has notoriety in college sports, thanks to UCF football’s  ascent over the past decade. Tickets are inexpensive and access is easier, with much more parking and tailgating options than the game’s previous home at Exploria Stadium . If you want to go to a great game with great ticket prices and a charitable benefactor, the Cure Bowl is perfect for you.

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

Photos by Richard Smith and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Wellspan Park 5 Brooks Robinson Way York, PA 17403 York Revolution website Wellspan Park website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 5,200 Revolution in the White Rose City York, Pennsylvania was the first capital of the United States. The title claim comes from the assertion that the Articles of Confederation was the first legal document to refer to the colonies as “the United States of America,” and York happened to be the capital when it was adopted. York is known as the White Rose City while nearby Lancaster is known as the Red Rose City city about the Wars of the Roses. For many years a baseball rivalry existed between the two cities with the York White Roses and Lancaster Red Roses. The York White Roses existed from 1894–1969, although technically they were known as the York Pirates the final year in town. League membership moved around between the Eastern League, Piedmont League, Interstate League, New York-Penn League, Tri-State League, Pennsylvania State League, and Keystone Association. The former home of the White Roses, now known as Bob Hoffman Stadium, is still located in town and is in use as a softball field. The original concrete walls of the stadium still exist. An upward-sloping hill was, and is, a unique distinction of the stadium. Of course, softball uses fences of a shorter distance and so the hill is no issue for the modern players. It must have been quite a thing to witness and play in the day. In 2007, the Revolution came to town as part of the independent Atlantic League. Food & Beverage 5 Check out the “Hungry Fan Map” on the main concourse for more information. There is a good selection of options at the stadium, more than some stadiums double their size. There are numerous permanent stands, as well as more temporary setups around the concourse. Fat Boys Pizza and Hoagary have two separate stands next to each other with quite a few options that we can most recommend. Macho Nacho serves large nachos in a full-sized helmet. Or you can opt for some chicken fingers and fries, also served in a helmet. Ripleigh's Creamery has great ice cream, with another helmet option, of course. Atmosphere 4 Fans enter the stadium through Brooks Robinson Plaza. The Orioles great played for the White Roses and was a part of the Revolution's operations until he died in 2023. The grandstand is a basic bowl set up and offers a great view from pretty much any seat. A fun place to sit is in the lawn section beyond center field. In that location, there is also one row of seating both in front of the lawn and in front of the playground area. A nice addition to the stadium is the “Arch Nemesis” wall in left field. Basically, it is a green monster type wall. There is a hand-operated scoreboard in the wall. Fans can walk behind the wall and see the scoreboard operator in action. There is a walkway that extends around the entire field and offers some great views. The team has a man clad in revolutionary garb, who fires off a small, real cannon at the start of the game and when the Revolution takes the lead. Be prepared, as it is VERY loud. The team mascot is named “Downtown.” Neighborhood 4 The baseball stadium is just north of the downtown area. Downtown York is not far away and there are some great bars and restaurants here. Stop in at White Rose Bar and Grill or Holy Hound Taproom for a bite and drink pre or postgame. Holy Hound has 30 beers on tap. Route 30 is a place to find almost every chain restaurant and hotel brand in existence. Recommendations here would be Cheddar’s and Mission BBQ. The Harley-Davidson Motor Company has a large facility in York. Check their website for the occasional tour. Fans 3 York is about the middle of the pack in attendance within the league. The fans that sit right behind the plate are knowledgeable. Once you get out to the fringe parts of the park you may see the more casual fan. Wellspan Park seems to make both types of fans feel right at home. Access 3 Route 30 and I-83 are the big roads in the area. The stadium sits not far off of these roads in the north of downtown York. Parking is $5 cash at nearby Smalls Athletic Field. Other lots are for pass-holders only. Most people will enter through the main gates at Brooks Robinson Plaza Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices at Wellspan Park are fair, ranging from $9 (lawn) to $15. There is also a nice variety of season and package plans. There is a parking charge of $5 but that price is low and reasonable. Extras 5 It is great to see the manual scoreboard in operation. So make sure to use the walkway and go behind to see the operator at work. It is a fun little thing the Revolution added to the park to add character. Also, make sure to spend some time before the game and check out the Brooks Robinson statue. The statue in the plaza shows a young Brooks in his York White Roses uniform. The entire Brooks Robinson Plaza is a nice little feature as well as serving as a great pregame meeting spot. The loud cannon is a nice little feature. Just be prepared because that cannon is loud. The ballpark has a nicely designed play area and a carousel in center field. Wellspan Park is home to the tallest outfield wall in all of baseball. At 37 feet, 8 inches, the left field wall is called the “Arch Nemesis,” and is 8 inches taller than the famed Green Monster at Fenway Park. There are four retired numbers on the façade of the press box at Wellspan Park. Brooks Robinson (5), Jackie Robinson (42), Andy Etchebarren (8) and Corey Thurman (35) are the honorees. Final Thoughts The York Revolution and Wellspan Park offer a nicely designed stadium with some really interesting features that are sure to please both the serious and casual baseball fans.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 John Euliano Park 4000 Central Florida Blvd Orlando, FL 32816 UCF Knights website John Euliano Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 3,600 Baseball Charges On at UCF As often happens in cities without a major league sports team, the local college fills the gaps. Such is the case with UCF baseball. In a city that is within driving distance to multiple other college teams, UCF attracts the biggest fans. Thanks to a multi-million dollar renovation, John Euliano Park is now a premiere baseball facility as well. You can find this beauty of a stadium nestled between the UCF Bounce House and Additional Financial Arena . However, on game days just follow the roar of the crowd to find your way. With an updated stadium, it is hard to argue against this being one of the premier college baseball stadiums in Florida. Food & Beverage 4 Thanks to large crowds, UCF has expanded its food offerings on game days in recent years. Food vendors dot the main concourse downstairs behind home plate, while smaller vendors can be found in left and right field. A cold beer will cost $7-$8 while a soda or water $4-$5. For food, fans can pick from burgers ($10), sausages ($9), hot dogs ($4), and assorted snacks (popcorn $2, nachos $7, sunflower seeds $3, peanuts $4, and Cracker Jack $5). This represents a solid mix of stadium favorites and baseball essentials. UCF students can take advantage of special pricing for water, popcorn, and hot dogs on game days for $2 each as well. Atmosphere 5 The fans at John Euliano Park are electric. Weekend games frequently feature a packed house. The team has also become a mecca for youth baseball teams to come watch some great action on the field. The stadium itself feels like a whole new place after its recent renovation. The second deck behind home plate now gives fans an elevated option from which to take in the action. The right field seating upstairs remains a great option for fans as well, serving as general admission seating as it has in the past. Below that the right field concourse runs along the batting cages, allowing fans the option to watch players warming up before heading onto the field. Down left field you will find a large sloping berm that gives a great picnic area feel. The outfield is also home to the rowdiest of fans, as many will use the parking lot and adjacent free viewing area as the perfect tailgating spot. Neighborhood 4 John Euliano Park is located on the campus of UCF; both the immediate area around the stadium and the campus itself are chock full of places to find food and shopping. Just outside the stadium’s main gate are Addition Financial Arena and the Bounce House. Here you can also find the UCF campus bookstore and associated Starbucks, as well as Burger U, the campus bar and burger/wings joint frequented by fans and students. Outside of campus you can find Blaze Pizza, Tijuana Flats, and countless more restaurants. For somewhere to stay, the closest options are Hilton Garden Inn and DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando East. Fans in the area are also less than an hour from Cocoa Beach and Kennedy Space Center to the east, while to the west they can find downtown Orlando and Lake Eola Park. Fans 5 Fans have started to make UCF baseball games a must-see event. From little league to high school varsity squads, kids from around Central Florida flock to UCF games. Without a doubt, however, the rowdiest crowd is the fans in the outfield. Beneath the scoreboard in center field the fence drops down to just a few feet high, offering a unique vantage point for tailgaters. The outfield parking lot is also transformed on game day to the home for the biggest UCF fans, who select their spots for free baseball viewing. They chant and cheer with gusto, adding to the home field advantage UCF enjoys. Access 4 Being that the stadium is located on campus, the roads in and out of the facility are easy to get around to find John Euliano Park. Parking lots and garages are free and plentiful. There are even several entrances for the stadium, either at the main entrance or down the first base line. That way, you can enter and exit John Euliano Park at different points, depending on where you parked. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to UCF baseball are incredibly affordable. General admission tickets start at $7, with assigned seating behind home plate starting at $10. Club seats on the second deck can be purchased for $40. Parking for games is free, either in the F garage adjacent to the stadium, or in the outfield lot when the F garage is being used for an event at UCF arena. With concessions prices not rising to the level of professional stadium rates, you can take a family to the game and get a bite to eat without breaking the bank. Extras 5 John Euliano Park features a neat view of the batting cages from the right field concourse, allowing fans an up-close view of pitchers warming up and players taking batting practice before games. There are also several themed giveaway days throughout the season, giving fans multiple reasons to come out to UCF baseball games during the year. Fans can also enjoy visits from a baseball-dressed Knightro mascot throughout the event, and everyone coming into the stadium can also take advantage of multiple giveaway tables. Here, fans can pick up posters, magnets, stickers, pins, and even flags on game day, courtesy of UCF and their sponsors. Finally, the team has a kid’s club that young fans can join to show their love of UCF sports. Final Thoughts While many may immediately think of football when it comes to UCF athletics, it is clear baseball is quickly becoming a draw here as well. With a beautiful newly renovated home stadium, the Knights are well positioned to provide one of the best game day experiences in college baseball. With great weather year-round and a fanbase that loves to support their team, there are plenty of reasons to not pass up UCF baseball when looking for a great place to watch America’s pastime.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Charlie W. Johnson Stadium 2047 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29204 Benedict Tigers website Charlie W. Johnson Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 11,000 Purple Pride in Carolina Home of the Benedict College Tigers football team, Charlie W. Johnson Stadium holds 11,000 fans and opened in 2006. The stadium is named after Dr. Charlie W. Johnson, who graduated with a Doctorate in Law from Benedict, as well as played professional football with both the Baltimore Colts and the San Francisco 49ers, helping win one Superbowl with each team. Dr. Johnson donated $1 million to Benedict toward the building of the Leroy T. Walker Health and Wellness Complex, which was the largest gift ever received by the college at that time, and he also donated $300K toward a scholarship to help Louisville youth attend Benedict College. Dr. Johnson also purchased 2 buses for Benedict College Athletics – the stadium was named after him in recognition of these gifts as well as his other lifetime achievements. Dr. Johnson was inducted into the Benedict College Hall of Fame in 2010. Food & Beverage 3 Charlie W. Johnson Stadium has concessions stands on both the east and west sides, all of which offer the same menu – hot dogs, fries, and nachos (all 3 are served either plain or with chili and/or cheese), chicken wings, chips, popcorn, candy, and bottled soda or bottled water. All items are $3 except for the bottled soda ($4) and chicken wings ($8), though add $1 each for the chili or cheese if you want your dog, nachos, or fries to have those. This makes for a decent selection and reasonable prices, but the major drawback is that the concessions lines are very long, and they also don’t open the concessions stands until after kickoff, which is kind of annoying. The stands on the west side also run out of drinks very quickly, so buy early if you want any. Atmosphere 5 As with many HBCUs, the highlight of the day at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is the band performance at halftime, and this is even more dramatic at Benedict than at other HBCU schools you may have seen games at. Benedict recently won the HBCU band championship, and it may have gone to their heads a little, but in a good way – the band is now known as the Benedict Tigers Band of Distinction, and the 4 drum majors are brought onto the field before the halftime show in a white SUV escorted by three Georgia police cars – yes you read that right; the police cars are driven into one of the end zones with lights and sirens going, so this is kind of a big deal. The drum majors each have nicknames like “The Funkmaster” or “The Quiet Man”, which they are announced by as they exit the SUV, and they pack a lot of rhythm and soul into their performance those 4 are more entertaining to watch than the rest of the band. The Benedict Tiger band has also been invited to perform in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, so check them out there if you can. Benedict Tigers Band of Distinction, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is located in a neighborhood that feels a little rough – there are bars over the windows at the ticket office in the admin building up the street from the facility, for example – but you should be perfectly safe around game time as there are plenty of police directing traffic in the area. There are plenty of places to eat within walking distance of the stadium itself, such as Two Notch Restaurant, Badd Boys Café, or Railroad BBQ, but the nice hotels are all closer to downtown along Gervais Street near the river, for example, the Graduate Columbia (formerly the Inn at USC) or Hilton Garden Inn. The University of South Carolina is not far from Benedict College, and there are several attractions near USC, such as the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden or the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Museum, if you plan to be in town for the day or the weekend. You also might be able to take in a second football game at South Carolina’s Williams-Brice Stadium while in town, if the schedules between the two schools happen to align. Fans 2 The crowd at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is very small – even during homecoming when a lot of alums are in town and visiting bands from local high schools are invited to perform at halftime, the stands will be pretty empty. There is a great tailgating scene around the facility though; you can see tents set up as far as the eye can see as you look down from inside the stadium. Also, the fans do represent, with most of them showing up geared in their purple and gold attire – that is a big plus. Tailgating at Benedict Tigers Football, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Access 4 Columbia, South Carolina is the state capital and as such is pretty easy to get to – Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is along Highway 1 (aka Highway 378), a few miles south of I-20 or east of I-77. There is a giant parking lot set up right outside the venue (parking on the grass), with parking costing $15, so only a short walk from the stadium entrances. Note that there are no game tickets sold at the stadium itself, which is odd, but you can buy them (cash only) from the parking attendants at the same time you pay for parking – $40 for both a general admission game ticket and a parking pass. Charlie W. Johnson Stadium has a main grandstand on the west side and a smaller set of stands on the east (facing the sun) – you can walk between them via a gravel path on the hill behind the north end zone. Moving around is pretty easy given the small crowd size, even at homecoming, but remember the concessions lines are pretty long; you are better off walking across to the east side, which has shorter lines if you want something to eat – that will take you less time than waiting in line on the west side. Return on Investment 4 Watching a football game at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is well worth it – the stadium has some great décor and amenities, including purple bucket-style seats in the middle on the west side, a great tiger head-shaped tunnel – complete with lots of fangs – for the players to come onto the field through, purple and gold balloons decorating the concourse, tiger statues outside the main entrance, and shrubs spelling out “Benedict” behind the north end zone. Tickets are pretty reasonable at $25 each, and $15 parking is pretty solid compared to most college football venues. Extras 3 The Tigers do have a mascot (person in tiger costume) to help entertain fans, as well as cheerleaders and dancers to support the band. They also play a lot of great music during breaks in the action, mostly a mix of rap/pop, which the fans seem to enjoy dancing to. Final Thoughts Some of the D2 football stadiums I have been to don’t have a lot to offer, but that is not the case here at Benedict – Charlie W. Johnson Stadium is a great looking, modern venue, and offers better quality and production values than a lot of FCS schools (and even some FBS schools), so I think you will enjoy your visit if decide to take a stroll in Tiger country – go BC!

Photos by Marc Viquez Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Freedom Hall 937 Phillips Ln. Louisville, KY 40209 Bellarmine Knights website Freedom Hall website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: 6,206 Bellarmine Knights are at Home in Freedom Hall Freedom Hall is one of the iconic buildings of college basketball, a mecca to many fans of the sport and especially Louisville Cardinals fans who watched them play between 1956-2010. Crowds of around 19,000 were common, especially after the Cards captured the 1980 NCAA Final Four, but after the team relocated to the KFC Yum Center, it appeared that it would no longer be home to college hoops. That changed in the summer of 2020 when Bellarmine University Knights basketball program was elevated to NCAA Division I status and moved into the ASUN Conference. The university’s athletic director said that Freedom Hall was a natural choice as it’s steeped richly in basketball tradition and minutes from campus. To say that the building is rich in basketball tradition is an understatement. Besides being the home for the Cards for 54 years, the place was home to Kentucky high school championship games, the former home of the Kentucky Colonels of the ABA, countless NBA exhibition games, and the host of six NCAA Final Four–a record for one individual building. Adding to its lore is being the home for Louisville-native Muhammad Ali’s first professional boxing match on October 29, 1960. Bellarmine played in the building’s second game before an exhibition game between the Boston Celtics and Minneapolis Lakers in November of 1956. The Knights have also played a handful of contests in the old building before settling permanently. The arena can seat 18,252 for basketball games but is capped at 6,252 for the university. The university was established in 1960, and the basketball program competed in NCAA Division II and played at Knights Hall on campus. The Knights became a powerhouse making 11-straight NCAA DII postseason appearances from 2009-to 2019. The team made four Final Four appearances during that time, culminating in the 2011 Final Four championship against BYU-Hawaii in Springfield, Massachusetts. There were many improvements made at Freedom Hall in 1984 that included lowering the floor to accommodate more seating. In 2017, the lower bleachers were replaced, a new scoreboard and sound system were added, repairs were made to the concourse flooring, and a paint job after the acoustic tiles were removed from the ceiling. Food & Beverage 3 Concession stands and kiosks are open on both levels of the concourse and provide more than enough options for fans at the game. The standard hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, and fries are featured. The Kentucky Pork Association stand includes the following options: boneless pork chop sandwich, pork burger, pork bbq, baked country ham sandwich, brats, and chili dogs. Domestic and imported beers are available, along with premium cocktails. Waffle cones and various ice cream flavors are provided by local Ehrler’s Ice Cream. Coke products are the drink of choice at Freedom Hall. Atmosphere 3 Despite the size of Freedom Hall, the atmosphere is pleasant for the Knights. The massive building did not quell the good mood of the home crowd, who provided a great backdrop for the evening’s contest. The majority of the faithful sat in the lower bleacher section consisting of foldable chairs, while a few enjoyed the game from the upper seating bowl. The new scoreboard has video capabilities and hangs above the center court. The Knight new floor design is quite nice in design, and both the cheerleaders and the band provide the usual college exclamation points. A small student section does its best to provide a home-court advantage along with the team mascot that walks around the cheer section. The outer concourse area is broken into upper and lower levels that are fully separate from the seating area. There are no views from the concourse levels, and one could feel the slightest isolated while walking around with the game taking place just a few feet away through the vomitorium. The concourses do provide bathrooms, concession areas, and exits for easy access. The end court stands are standard bleachers and mask the additional seating and floor section of the building. The stats scoreboard is at the far end of the arena and provides a little old-school charm along with some of the building’s signage. To many who have grown up attending games here, there appears to have been little that has changed at Freedom Hall. However, there is not much that celebrates the venue’s rich baseball history. There are no banners, trophy cases, photos, murals, or mention of what has taken place since 1956. Bellarmine does not even have its 2011 Final Four banner hanging up from the rafters. The building has been home to more than just basketball, but a lot could be on display in the walls of the vapid concourse. Neighborhood 3 Freedom Hall is located 5-miles south of downtown Louisville on the grounds of the Kentucky Exposition Center. Louisville Muhammad Ali Internation Airport is adjacent to the complex that is directly off of I-65 and I-264. Churchill Downs is also nearby the complex. It is easily accessible by car, but one has to leave the complex to access other areas of Louisville. There is a multitude of hotel and restaurants chains nearby the complex. The best suggestion would be to travel 5 miles north to downtown and enjoy the many options of the city that includes the following museums: Louisville Slugger Museum, Kentucky Science Center, and the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft. There are numerous distilleries in town that include the following: Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, Rabit Hole Distillery, Kentucky Peerless Distilling, Angel’s Envy Distilling, and Brough Brothers Distilling. The Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs are within a few miles from the complex and are must-see options in Derby City. Church Hills Down is home to the Kentucky Derby, but there is plenty of other horse racing throughout the season. Also nearby are Patterson Stadium (baseball) and Cardinal Stadium (football) on the University of Louisville campus. Fans 3 Despite the size of Freedom Hall, the Knights fans make the massive building very comfortable. There is never a feeling that the team is playing out of its league in the historic hall. The Bellarmine fan base provides an impressive atmosphere that should add another notch to the history of the arena. Access 4 Freedom Hall is located 5-miles south of downtown Louisville on the grounds of the Kentucky Exposition Center. It’s home to various exhibition buildings, Kentucky Kingdom amusement park, and Hurricane Bay water park. The complex is easily accessible from I-65 and I-264, and there are plenty of parking spots surrounding the arena. Inside the arena, two concourses wrap around the interior seating bowl for easy access to individual seating and sections. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket is between $15 to $25. There is not a bad seat in the house, but lower section seating puts the customer close to the action on the court. Parking is $10, understandable for being in an exposition complex, and concessions are reasonable, but a few items are a tad high including, hot dogs for $6. Extras 3 Freedom Hall has a grand history, but none of that is on display on the interior walls of the concourse. It is somewhat sad since there have been many celebrations from college basketball, an ABA championship, concerts by national acts, and Muhammad Ali’s first bout. Thankfully there are plaques, including one of Ali, of Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame members on the walls. A second point is awarded to the Kentucky Pork Producers that offer plenty of tasty products at the game. Final Thoughts Freedom Hall has seen a lot of sporting events during its tenure, and there was a thought that it would be too big for Bellarmine. That doesn’t appear to be the case, as a substantial crowd provides a wonderful backdrop for the evening. However, the outside concourse could use some improvements to honor the building’s amazing history. Even with that in mind, Freedom Hall is worth a visit for being what it has always been, a historic home for college hoops. Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Stabler Arena 124 Goodman Dr Bethlehem, PA 18015 Lehigh Mountain Hawks website Stabler Arena website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 6,000 Safe & Sound at the Stabler Arena While attending a Lehigh University basketball game at the Stabler Arena, I was told a story from one of the ushers about an alumnus who claimed to have attended every game since he graduated high school in 1934. I assume that this had been some time ago since this man would be close to 110 years old, but he swore up and down that all the games had been played in the same building since he was an undergrad. The only problem was that the Stabler Arena opened in 1979–45 years after he had graduated college. The 6,200 multi-purpose arenas were dedicated on May 26 of that year with commencement ceremonies and became home to Lehigh basketball the following season. The building is named after Donald, a 1930 Lehigh graduate, and Dorothy Stabler, who were primary donors of the facility. The arena replaced Taylor Gymnasium, which had been home to the basketball program since 1914 and where the former alumni probably saw a majority of his games–it still exists on campus as a fitness center. The Mountain Hawks are members of the Patriot League and have a strong rivalry with nearby Lafayette College in Easton–just 13 miles down the road. The program has made five NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournaments and, in 2012, gained national prominence by knocking out the #2 Duke Blue Devils 75-70 in the opening round of the tournament. The Stabler Arena defines what a basketball arena of the 1970s represents: rectangular shaped with plenty of 90-degree angles in the seating bowl. The aesthetics are not as welcoming as, say, The Palestra down the turnpike in Philadelphia or the plush and modern PPL Center in nearby Allentown, but the facility does not pretend to be anything it isn’t. The fan can expect a comfortable seat that is up close to the action on the court. Food & Beverage 3 There is a food court with various concessions that include tabletop seating next to a set of windows that add a touch of natural lighting to the concourse level. The options are limited but are rather inexpensive and include pretzels, hot dogs, french fries, nachos, and chicken fingers and fries. There are also deli wrap sandwiches and pizza slices available during the game. If you are feeding a group or family, a whole pizza sells for $17 to $20 a pie. The arena offers a line of Pepsi products, and there are no alcoholic beverages sold on its property. Atmosphere 3 The Stabler Arena features a main lobby with a set of two staircases that lead to a wraparound concourse that provides entrances to the seating area. The lobby wall is painted with the Stabler name and two portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Stabler. Fans can pick up tickets inside at tables or outside in the ticket booth. There is also room for more tables from local business advertising services and consulting. The school colors of brown and yellow are prominent inside the seating bowl, which also includes championship banners and retired jersey numbers, LED video boards in two corners, and a court-level area behind one of the baskets that features high-top tables. The popular area is a welcome addition and offers tabletop seating nearby behind the basket. Fans socialize with one another, enjoying food and drink while watching the game. The atmosphere was a little tepid since our visit took place between sessions; a school band, student section, or official mascot was not present at the game. Their presence does add a little life to the proceedings. The game itself was against arch-rivals Lafayette, and a spirited crowd was at hand to cheer on their Hawks to victory. Neighborhood 4 The Stabler Arena is located on the Murray H. Goodman campus, down the mountain from the Mountaintop campus. It is a few miles away from the town of Hellertown, which has a quaint main street featuring stores, restaurants, and bars. Bella’s Ristorante, Hellertown Crossroads Hotel, and Lost Tavern Brewery are three establishments worth checking out before or after the game. Bethlehem is just over the mountain and displays decorative holiday lights during Christmas time, along with an array of restaurants that include The Brick (pizza), Apollo Grill (cozy, refined restaurant), The People’s Kitchen (neighborhood vibe), and The Bayou Southern Kitchen (Cajun and Southern cuisine). The city also features the National Museum of Industrial History, the Moravian Museum, and the American on Wheels Museum. Fans 3 Fans are energetic and supportive of the Mountain Hawks. As with any program, winning cures a lot of ailments, and the basketball team has posted ten winning seasons over the better part of the decade. There are no visible traditions witnessed in the game. Access 4 The Stabler Arena is extremely easy to access once inside. There is one main concourse that houses concessions, bathrooms, and entrances for easy access to and from your seats. The entrances are marked with oversized numbers that appear to date from the arena’s first year. The building is also easy to access off I-78 via the Hellertown exit. A large parking lot is adjacent to the building. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket to a game is either $5 or $26.50, plus a service fee. The $5 ticket price point is almost a steal for basketball at this level and one of the best bargains you will find in the Patriot League. The price of concessions is also extremely reasonable, and there is no fee for parking in the arena’s lot. Extras 2 Stabler Arena earns a point for the oversized numbers that mark each entrance to the seating section. The number font reminds me of the ones at the old Giant Stadium that captured my fancy as a youth. Stabler Arena earns a second point for $5 tickets, a price almost unheard of at this level of basketball. If you are with someone who isn’t the biggest basketball fan, it is not a bad way of getting them to the game without hurting your wallet. Final Thoughts I am somewhat perplexed by the Stabler Arena. The building is an example of 1970s architecture and aesthetics that have not aged as well as other arenas built before it; then again, the ticket and concession prices are extremely affordable, and the vantage points from the seats are top-notch. Add to the scenic mountain view and the quaint main street of Hellertown, and you have a top destination that offers a lot of bang for your buck. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Glass Bowl 3044 N Glass Bowl Drive Toledo, OH 43606 Toledo Rockets website Glass Bowl website Year Opened: 1937 Capacity: 26,248 The Rockets Blue and Gold Glare For those of you who have never experienced MACtion, you have no idea what you are missing. A great college football experience without the claustrophobia and sheer craziness of having a tenth of a million people in one spot. The MAC has provided the big conferences with some of the most legendary coaches in the game. The Toledo Rockets have been among the best MAC experiences that you can find. Establishing a team in 1917, the Rockets are one of the longest-running members of the MAC, joining in 1950, just 4 years after the conference was founded. Toledo boasts 10 conference championships including victories in the 2001 and 2004 MAC Championship games. The other titles came in 1967, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1981, 1984, 1990 and 1995. Toledo football has had its share of legends and boasts big-time college coaches Gary Pinkel, currently of Missouri, and Nick Saban, currently of Alabama among its coaching alumni. Perhaps the most significant Toledo coach, however, was Frank Lauterbur, who oversaw one of the most legendary teams in college football history. Under Coach Lauterbur and standout quarterback Chuck Ealey, the Rockets went on a 35-0 winning streak. Ealey never lost a college football game in his career. The Glass Bowl has been the home for the Rockets since 1937. The stadium remains after numerous upgrades and is one of the best examples of amalgamating original architecture with modern amenities. The Rocket faithful have stayed true to their team, especially when facing their arch-rival just 20 miles south on I-75, the Bowling Green Falcons. The “Battle of I-75” has become so significant that in 1961 the University of Toledo procured an actual rocket from the U.S. Army and positioned it in such a way that if fired, it would land on the 50-yard line in Doyt-Perry Stadium on the campus of Bowling Green State University. Food & Beverage 3 The Glass Bowl provides a fairly average culinary experience for college football. You will find what you expect to find here, and the prices are pretty reasonable. Hot dogs ($3.50), popcorn ($3.50), pizza ($4), nachos ($3.50), soda ($3.25), and beer ($6) are all available. Unlike many college football stadiums, there are alcohol sales at the Glass Bowl. Featured brands of beer include Budweiser, Bud Light, Labatt Blue, and Yuengling. If you are looking for something a bit more unique, then try the Tailgate Gourmet in the south end. They feature a sirloin burger and a quarter-pound hot dog. The quality of the food at the Tailgate Gourmet is high, but the service can be slow. Atmosphere 4 The Glass Bowl is a great place to catch a college football game. The University of Toledo has done a fantastic job of merging the old with the new. The Glass Bowl has a north-south orientation with a horseshoe seating area, opening at the north end. All seating is aluminium benches with the band and students sitting in the south end. The west grandstand features the press box and luxury boxes in a three-tier complex above the seating bowl similar to many college stadiums. The entire stadium is surrounded by a beautiful stone wall made from irregular stones with sharp vertical stones at the top. It gives the stadium a fort-like feel. The north opening also features two large, square ramparts continuing with the fort feel. The beautiful stonework features what may have at one time been windows, that are now covered with pictures of Rocket Legends. The legends include players who have had their numbers retired including Mel Long, Mel Triplett, Gene Swisk, and Chuck Ealey. Legends also include newer Rocket players including Chester Taylor and Bruce Gradkowski. On the facia of the luxury boxes, the retired numbers of the Rockets are featured, as well as the 10 conference championship years. When game time arrives, the Rocket Marching Band marches toward the stadium and enters. They perform as most bands do, forming various icons on the field while playing songs including the Toledo fight song. The team enters the stadium from the north end through smoke and cannon fire. When the Rockets score, be ready as the cannon will fire again! The in-game experience is fantastic and well worth the trip. Outside of the Glass Bowl is a Nike-Ajax Rocket which was erected on the campus in 1961. The Rocket is pointed at the top rival of the Rockets, the Bowling Green Falcons. The Sullivan Athletic Center, a few steps from the Glass Bowl, houses the main campus store as well as the Rockets Hall of Fame. Toledo has done a fantastic job of sharing their history and their points of pride with visitors, students, and alumni. Neighborhood 3 The Glass Bowl is located right in the heart of the University of Toledo. The university has a beautiful green campus just south of the Ottawa River. The university campus is west of downtown Toledo. The home of the Toledo Mud Hens of the International League, Fifth Third Field, can be found downtown, as well as the new Huntington Center, which is the home of the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. Other Toledo athletic events are held at Savage Hall, which is just a few steps from the Glass Bowl. If you are looking for some pre or post-game libations, you probably want to head to Dorr St. There you may consider trying Jed’s on Campus or Oasis Restaurant. Fans 4 The Toledo Rockets have enjoyed solid fan support. The student section is strong and it is right beside the band. The Rockets have routinely featured attendance in the top 5 in the conference. They typically average over 18,000 fans per year. In 2013, the Rockets averaged over 18,000 fans and were 4th in the conference in attendance. The previous year the Rockets were averaging over 20,000 which was good for 3rd. Some of the fans do take their time arriving on time, missing the fun of the band performing before the game. This could be because of the solid tailgating scene that can be found on campus. Either way, Rocket fans are not afraid to make noise and love the cannon fires signifying a Rockets score. Access 3 Getting to the Glass Bowl is not too difficult. The campus of the University of Toledo is located south of I-475, west of I-75, and Highway 24. The game day crew does a great job of keeping traffic flowing through campus and helping fans find and pay for parking. Large parking garages and tailgate lots make parking on campus fairly easy. Inside the Glass Bowl, patrons do find some difficulties with older facilities. Some of the washrooms are pretty small and feature old-school troughs and sinks. Also, on the east side, the light standards are actually in front of the upper deck. Return on Investment 5 The investment in Rocket Football is not significant. Tickets are normally $25 and can rise for big games. In 2014, the Bowling Green game went for $35 and the Missouri game went for $45. The sight lines on the west side of the stadium are excellent, but you would want to be careful behind the light standards in the upper deck on the east side. Concession prices are very reasonable for college football and campus parking is not very expensive. Overall, you will have a great time in Toledo and you can easily bring a family. The return is significant with a solid college football atmosphere in a very unique stadium. Extras 3 An extra mark for the student section who throws footballs back to the game when field goals are kicked. There is no protective netting for field goals and it appears that one is not needed. An extra mark for the Rocket pointed at Doyt-Perry Stadium. A truly unique feature that revs up a solid rivalry. An extra mark for legendary Rockets quarterback Chuck Ealey who played his entire Toledo career without losing a game, leading a 35-0 streak. Final Thoughts A trip to see the uniqueness of the Glass Bowl is worth a trip to Toledo just on its own. The Rockets provide a first-class college football experience and the MAC provides some excellent #MACtion in what may be a fairly forgotten football conference otherwise. If you are a college football enthusiast, consider traveling to Northern Ohio to see the Toledo Rockets. You will not be disappointed. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum is just across the street from Busch Stadium and is part of the Ballpark Village. The museum is an impressive collection of team history dating back to the team’s origins and showcases the many players, home stadiums, and World Series championships won by the club. The museum boasts one of the largest team-specific collections of artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Seven galleries take you on a chronological journey through the history of the Cardinals; visitors learn about the birth of the franchise, relive special memories, view game-worn jerseys, and interact with great exhibits. The floorplan is set up in seven different areas highlighting the team's former homes of Sportsman Park and Busch Stadium II, along with its current venue, Look of the Cardinals, Championship Gallery, Cardinals Nation, and the Hall of Fame. There is also a rotation exhibit at the museum. The Look of the Cardinals illustrates how those two birds got onto the bats and game-worn jerseys are displayed that show the evolution of the famous insignia that has been on every home jersey, except 1956, every year since 1922. The look was inspired by table decorations created by Allie May Schmidt for dinner engagement by the Cardinals Vice President and General Manager Branch Rickey. The championship gallery features all 11 World Series trophies, rings, and paraphernalia in a beautiful circular-shaped room. There is a collection of great material from the different championship eras from pins, game day programs, press pins, clothing, and photographs. The museum also dedicates an area to the memory of the St. Louis Browns who played from 1903-1953 and in 1944 played the Cards in the all-St. Louis World Series. All of the galleries offer interactive areas, detailed information, and plenty of nostalgia for fans of the teams. Visitors are also able to pose for pictures holding game-used bats by former players, call a game in the broadcast booth, and put on an actual World Series championship ring. Even if you are not a Cardinals fan, it would be hard not to be impressed with the massive collection and detail of history. St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum 700 Clark St., St. Louis, Missouri 62102 http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/stl/cardinals-nation/hof.jsp Open Monday-Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Photos by Eric Hasman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 BMO Center 300 Elm St Rockford, IL 61101 Rockford IceHogs website BMO Center website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 5,895 Big Orange Box Opened in 1981, BMO Harris Bank Center was known as the Metro Centre or the “Big Orange Box” due to the reddish/orange brick facade. It seats about 5,900 for hockey, 10,000 for concerts, and approximately 7,700 for basketball. The IceHogs are currently the AHL affiliate for the Chicago Blackhawks since the 2007-08 season. Prior to that season, they were in the now-defunct United Hockey League (UHL). The unique thing about this venue is that when the IceHogs were accepted into the AHL the arena ice surface had to be extended by 15’. As a result, the open end of the arena used to have seating but no more. Also, since the rest of the seating bowl was not changed, the benches do not have enough room for the backup goalies. Therefore, the goalies sit away from the rest of the team where the Zambonis come in/out between periods. The seating is a horseshoe shape with one end being open. In the open end, there is an ice level club lounge area. Any fan can visit the upper level and watch the game if the area is not rented (the view is nice from up there). In addition, there are about 10 conventional skyboxes on one side of the arena. Their gift shop is huge and has a great selection of the usual stuff…hats, t-shirts, sweatpants, game-worn uniforms, etc... The seating areas and restrooms are very clean in the arena. Food & Beverage 5 The food here is outstanding. The IceHogs offer many choices. My favorite is the Barnyards pulled pork bbq sandwich. However, the country fried chicken sandwich and the "Pig Slop" are very tasty too. The Pig Slop is French fries, cole slaw, pulled pork, and nacho cheese. Barnyards also sells fried buffalo chicken sandwiches. Sandwiches are $13. The Oak Leaf Grill has chicken tenders with fries ($13), pork tenderloin ($8) or grilled chicken sandwiches ($8), corn dog or cheese curds ($8), or a bratwurst ($6). Nacho Dillas stand has “gourmet nachos” - beef or chicken with queso, lettuce, tomato, onion, sour cream, jalapenos, and salsa ($13). In addition, there are “walkaway nachos” - beef or chicken topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, onions, tomato & sour cream ($7.50). The arena has standard fare foods such as Pizza Hut pizza ($7 a slice). This stand also sells breadsticks with marinara sauce ($7). The Barnburner stand has a cheeseburger basket ($14) or just a cheeseburger ($8), Various stands have hot dogs ($5.50), popcorn ($7), nachos ($6), hot pretzels ($7.50), and candy ($4.50). Alcoholic drinks include the River City Brew stand which serves mixed drinks ($10 to $17) as well as domestic draft beer ($8), specialty beer ($9), champagne ($9), frozen margaritas ($13), and wine ($10). For drinks, regular and diet Pepsi brand soda is $9 for a souvenir cup ($4.50 for a refill), Rockstar energy drinks ($6), water is $4.50, and Gatorade or tea goes for $4.75. A Dippin’ Dots stand sells its ice cream for $5.50 (small) and $7.50 (large). Popcorn is $7. Atmosphere 5 The fans who attend are really into the game. This is a major plus since the place is so small you are very close to the action and there is no bad seat in the arena. The main level open end seating area has a bunch of sit-down tables and stand-up bar tables. My only beef with this area is if you are not right against the railing, you cannot see all of the ice. The IceHogs have updated the look of Hammy - the mascot. Many fans dislike the new look, as do I. Hammy does a lot of stuff on the ice. Hammy walks around the arena and is readily available for pictures. I do have a problem with the IceHogs changing the look of the "live" mascot but not on all of their swag and specialty jerseys. A lone championship banner from the IceHogs UHL days hangs from the rafter. It is the only banner indicating that the franchise, as a whole, is not very successful on the ice. The in-game entertainment is your usual stuff and includes a local choir singing the national anthem, a local drumline team performing between periods, chuck a puck, and t-shirt tosses. The IceHogs Game promotions throughout the year are outstanding. They include different themed nights like Star Wars Night, Pink in the Rink, Halloween festivities, Country Nights, Teddy Bear Toss (always a fun time), dog days, specialty jersey auctions and more. In addition, they have great giveaways throughout the year. Neighborhood 2 BMO Harris Bank Center is located in downtown Rockford, IL on the west side of Rock River. There is not much of a neighborhood immediately around the arena. It is mostly government offices and buildings, store fronts (many vacant), or parking. However, there are some bars / restaurants within walking distance. Cantina Taco and J-bears Place is good. Less than a half a mile away from the arena, across the Rock River, is the more riveting part of the downtown area. It has bars, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, shops, and a river walk for those warmer days. For local craft beers, go to Prairie Street Brewhouse or Carlyle Brewing Company. Vintage@501 is a local favorite and is considered one of the best places in Rockford for a burger. Fans 4 As with most minor league sports, the people in attendance are mostly families. Many fans wear IceHogs game-worn jerseys/replica jerseys. In addition, visitors see many Chicago Blackhawk jerseys in the stands. COVID really hit attendance during the last two seasons. However, things are getting back to “normal.” The average attendance is about 3,500 per game now. And the fans who go are loud and into the game which makes for some good times. The intensity increases when local rival, the Chicago Wolves (Carolina Hurricanes AHL affiliate), are in town. One thing that amuses me is after a home team goal is scored the crowd taunts the opposing goalie to the old tune of "Mony, Mony," by saying “hey guess what, your goalie sucks.” Note: If you don’t like cowbells, you are not going to like this place. It seems that most of the people have one here. Access 3 Getting to the arena from Chicago is easy, off I-90 onto US 20 going first through first commercial shopping and restaurants. Just about every major chain you can think of is down this stretch. Then you drive through residential neighborhoods which are rundown but safe. Then it becomes somewhat industrial and lastly, downtown. There are parking lots all around the arena which cost about $5 - $7. More expensive parking is nearer the arena too. In addition, a lot of free street parking is a couple blocks from the arena. My only problem is, when leaving the game, the one road, US 20, is packed, and it takes about 15 minutes before you get to an area where traffic is flowing again. It really would help if Rockford police directed traffic after a game. BMO Harris Bank Center has adopted the clear bag policy where only 12” x 6” x 12” bags are permissible in the venue during a hockey match. Small wallets, clutches, and purses less than 8 ½” x 11” are also allowed. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range from $12 to $29, depending on the game. In addition, there is a service fee too. Sadly, I did not get a paper ticket on the day of this review. I don’t know if they are available. The IceHogs have instituted a “premium” pricing program which I really hate. Despite this pricing, between the promotions, game activities, and food, it is well worth the time and effort to get there. Extras 4 Several things are worth noting. Fans can purchase a between-period Zamboni ride. The organization took a Zamboni, removed the water tank, and put seats in that spot. The Zamboni fits ten people, and the money goes towards charity. Next, the IceHogs organization displays the promotional-themed night jerseys worn throughout the franchise's history along the concourse. I wish all teams would adopt this. The Stars of Tomorrow area features pictures of former players who have made it to the Pros. Finally, the standing areas with tables in the arena are worth a mention. The open end of the upper level has an area where fans can stand and watch the game. Final Thoughts Rockford being fairly close to the Chicagoland area (about 2 hrs), the IceHogs being the Chicago Blackhawks affiliate, and all the promotions the IceHogs have, this is a can’t miss venue. A bad time can't be had here.

Photos courtesy of Lehigh Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park 123 Goodman Dr Bethlehem, PA 18015 Lehigh Mountain Hawks website J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 500 Watching the Hawks J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is located on the Goodman Campus in Bethlehem, PA, and is another one of those parks that is so small it lacks a real address, so your GPS can only get you very close. Like many smaller schools, the athletics facilities tend to be clustered together at Lehigh, so you will find the baseball diamond right behind the Rauch Field House, next to the tennis courts and not far from the track – if you can get to Goodman Drive you should be able to find the venue, eventually. Food & Beverage 0 Currently there is no concessions stand, so you have to bring your own food and drinks if you want them, and many do – a number of fans sit or stand on the hill overlooking the park (behind the press box), and there is a real tailgating atmosphere there, including numerous food tables and coolers for beer; more on that in the Fans section below. Atmosphere 2 Not a terrible place to see a game; since it is so small you can get really close to the action and clearly hear the crack of the bat and the shouts from the umpire; the attendance is also pretty decent, so you can experience some good crowd noise. However, the facilities are admittedly lacking – it was built so long ago the Internet doesn’t even know when, there are no concessions, and all the seats are metal bleachers (only some have chair back rails, which are at least painted in the team colors). The Mountain Hawks compete in the Patriot League, which has been dominated by Bucknell for the last 25 years, and only has 5 baseball teams besides Lehigh (Army, Bucknell, Holy Cross, Lafayette, and Navy). Neighborhood 3 There aren’t any restaurants close to J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park, which is a bummer since they don’t sell food inside, so to find anything to eat you pretty much have to go downtown, where there are several fast food and local places. But the real jewel in Bethlehem, and probably the only place worth hanging out before or after the game (except for the Sands Casino Resort) is the Apollo Grill, which is located on West Broad Street, and for 15 years has been voted the best restaurant in Lehigh Valley (pretty much every year since it opened). Reservations are suggested because it is so popular. A little on the pricey side, Apollo’s offers a variety of sandwiches as well as seafood options, but also fancier entrees like pork, veal, and lamb. The atmosphere is pretty lively – the only downside is that wine and martinis are the only adult beverage options. If you plan to stay the weekend, the main attraction in Bethlehem is the aforementioned Sands Casino Resort, which opened in 2009, and added the hotel and an outlet mall in 2011 – the resort complex includes nearly a dozen restaurant as well as four night clubs. Sands and the Holiday Inn are the main hotel options in Bethlehem proper, so if neither of those is your scene you may want to try nearby Allentown, which has several Hiltons, a Ramada, a Wingate by Wyndham, and a few off-brand lodging choices. Fans 3 Lehigh draws a pretty good crowd for baseball games. The capacity at J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is only 500, and the stands tend to get pretty full, so a lot of fans instead choose to watch from the hill behind the press box. You will see a long row of tables up there loaded with food, as well as several beer coolers hidden underneath, and that crowd gets pretty raucous, more so than the folks in the stands. A lot of fans in both areas wear Lehigh gear, and they loudly and proudly support their team, and boo the bad guys. Access 3 I mentioned earlier that J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is hard to find because it doesn’t have a real address. Once you get to it, though, parking is easy to find – there are small lots all around the park, with plenty of space to accommodate the typical crowd size. The bathrooms are a little odd, however – there are plenty of them, but they are the inside-a-trailer type, not your usual free-standing option. Admittedly they are a step up from port-a-johns, so I guess they do the job, and at least they are clean and close to the stands! Return on Investment 3 Admission to Lehigh baseball games is free, as is parking. However, they don’t have concessions here, which may be problematic for some. Nevertheless, the crowd is pretty solid, so that makes a visit to J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park a lot of fun. If you can suck up the weird bathrooms and the lack of food and drink for a few hours (or haul in your own), it is probably a worthwhile trip. Extras 1 One point for the Sands Casino Resort – this provides a great additional reason (besides the baseball) to make the drive out to Bethlehem. Another point for the tailgating on the hill – you rarely see this at baseball games, so it adds a nice bit of fun and uniqueness. Final Thoughts A decent place to see a baseball game, with a really good crowd, and a great opportunity to do some tailgating, which you can’t do at a lot of other college baseball stadiums. J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park also underwent some renovations since this article was published, so the venue should look even better right now.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Osceola County Stadium 631 Heritage Park Way Kissimmee, FL 34744 Orlando City B website Osceola County Stadium website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 5,300 Orlando’s Future Soccer Stars In Orlando, the soccer scene has become a deeply woven part of the city’s sports fabric. Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride may very well get all of the attention, but make no mistake, there are other options in the area. The former indoor Orlando SeaWolves started the soccer craze in Osceola Memorial Park, and now the mantle belongs to Orlando City B. Having moved from Exploria Stadium after the COVID-19 pandemic to the former home of the Orlando Fire Frogs, OCB has found a home and a fanbase to call their own, without any distractions from big brother. Food & Beverage 3 The stadium fare is simple but tasty here. For most games only one concessions stand is open, but it has a wide variety of options. Cheeseburgers, nachos, hot dogs, fries, and various candy and chip selections are available, with drinks including water, bottled sodas, and beer. Pricing is simple and consistent with most stadiums, with drinks in the $4-$5 range and food just over $10 for meals. Atmosphere 3 The stadium itself is a former baseball stadium, playing host to various MiLB and spring training matchups over the years – now it has been converted to a soccer pitch. Seating is all general admission, meaning you can sit anywhere from the top rows down to right along the field. The seats along the sidelines line up well with the pitch and are in the shade for most of the afternoon and evening. However, any seating along what was the right field line will be in the sun and at an angle, when available. Neighborhood 3 The fact that you’re not far from Orlando proper means you aren’t far from plenty of entertainment. However, right around the stadium itself, you will find limited food and shopping options. Rodeo Diner and Chicken Spot are located right next to McDonald’s and Denny’s along US-192, the main road outside the facility. For lodging, Quality Inn & Suites Heritage Park and Travelodge by Wyndham Kissimmee East are your two best options. For seeing the sights, Walt Disney World Resort is only 15 minutes away, while NASA and Cape Canaveral are just an hour east near Cocoa Beach. Fans 3 The stadium may not sell out every game or echo with the chants from the Wall like their bigger counterparts downtown, but Orlando City B has built a loyal fanbase that shows up to their games with passion – signs in the stadium are still common showing their love of Orlando. Younger fans are among the most passionate at games, crowding the lower rows closest to the pitch and cheering with every pass and shot on goal. Another big fan draw is the family aspect of going to an OCB game; even after kickoff families with young fans continued to trickle into the stadium. Access 4 To get to Osceola County Stadium, a simple drive south on I-4 will take you to exit 244. From there a turn to the west on US-192 will lead you right to Osceola Heritage Park, where Silver Spurs Arena is located. Parking is plentiful on-site and free. Signs are also plentiful on-site to help direct you once you get on the property, as there are several different venues located at Osceola Heritage Park, including Silver Spurs Arena , the new home of the Kissimmee Magic. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are incredibly affordable at just $15 a person, and all seats are general admission. Partner this with free parking and affordable concessions, and it is easy to see why Orlando City B games are a hit with local families. Add to this the great action on the field, and the opportunity to watch some of the young stars that are coming up through the ranks in soccer, and you have little reason to skip out on this great game-day value. Extras 3 The stadium features a dedication plaque in the main concourse showcasing the history of the stadium. Fans also can enjoy watching the game from field level on the left field patio. Here, tables and chairs and standing room offer perhaps the most up-close view of any professional soccer experience without having to pay an extra price. Finally, the stadium facility is also the training home for Orlando City SC , and Orlando City B, so you can see plenty of stars in the fields around the stadium, training for future games. Final Thoughts Orlando City B may not have the big-name players or the big-time stadium, but they are no less deserving of your attendance. A great family atmosphere showcasing some of the brightest future stars makes for a perfect night out watching soccer in Orlando, without paying the price for the team’s bigger brother .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Ford Field 2000 Brush St Detroit, MI 48226 Detroit Lions website Ford Field website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 65,000 Lions Loyal The definition of sports futility may just be the Detroit Lions. In the conversation for most long suffering fans, the Lions have tortured their fans by only winning one National Football League playoff game since 1957. Most fans forget the dominance of the Lions in the pre Super Bowl era, which is understandable. There may be many who sleep on the Lions as a force in the NFL, however, nobody should sleep on the experience at Ford Field. One of the centerpiece items built to help revitalize downtown Detroit, Fied Field opened its doors in 2002 and signaled the end of the Lions existence at the Pontiac Silverdome. A resurgence in the experience for fans, Ford Field has also hosted the NCAA Final Four, NCAA Frozen Four, Mid-American Conference Championship game and Quick Lane Bowl as well as a ton of concerts and WrestleMania 23. Until 2014 the Lions were under the care of owner William Clay Ford. With his death, the team is owned by his daughter Sheila Ford Hamp. A trip to the Lions will show fans what Lions Loyalty is all about. Food & Beverage 4 The concession scene is very strong at Ford Field. Fans will be more than pleased to find local favorites inside Ford Field including Slow’s BBQ, Hungry Howie’s Pizza and Big Boy. Other options include Taste of Greektown, Hon Cho Poletown Sausage and Lefty’s Famous Cheesesteaks. The Street Eats of Detroit and Goalpost Grille provide more traditional stadium fare. There is little for the fan to desire. Some stands provide “Power Hour” specials which give special pricing from 11 to 12 on a regular 1 pm game. There are plenty of beer options available throughout the stadium. Leinenkugel, Miller Lite and Blue Moon are all available, but the presence of Bud Light is pretty overwhelming. A number of bars throughout the stadium also offer a variety of other alcoholic beverages. Pepsi products are the soft drinks of choice at Ford Field. Atmosphere 5 Ford Field is one of the centerpiece buildings that have highlighted the return to downtown. Built into a former warehouse, Ford Field has maintained some of that industrial charm, heavily relying on a brown brick exterior with some marble inserts with Ford Field and Lions logos. Large, glass atriums at the southeast and southwest corners of the stadium offer great gathering places. Unlike the majority of NFL stadiums, Ford Field is completely enclosed. Some may consider this to be a detractor for the stadium, but the harsh Michigan winters make domed field a welcome feature. A far cry from the Pontiac Silverdome, the roof at Fied Field features huge translucent panels which bring in plenty of natural light. Also, the southwest and southeast corners are open and the light from the atriums help give fans the feeling of being outdoors while enjoying comfort from the elements. The north and south concourses are very different. The south concourse nods back to the industrial roots of the area with wrought iron gates at the entrance of sections and brick walls and cobblestone flooring. The north concourse is the complete opposite with a much more modern feel to it. Posts in the concourses are covered with images of current Lions players and Lions greats of the past. The east-west oriented, field turf field is surrounded by two main tiers of seating. The south side features four tiers of luxury boxes. The fascia of those boxes has the names of the 19 members of the Pride of the Lions ring of honour. Members include Alex Karras, Roger Brown, Herman Moore, Bobby Layne, Joe Schmidt, Doak Walker, Lou Creekmur, Dick Lane, Lem Barney, Dick LeBeau, Dick Stanfel, Jason Hanson, Chris Spielman, Jack Christiansen, Dutch Clark, Yale Lary, Charlie Sanders, Alex Wojciechowicz and Barry Sanders. Opposite, on the north side hang the banners the Lions have earned for various division and conference championships. The American flag is surrounded by the 1935, 1952, 1953 and 1957 NFL Championship banners, earned before the Super Bowl era. Massive video boards hang above the north and south end zones. There are plenty of other screens around and massive ribbon boards encase the southeast and southwest pillars. The south side is where fans will want to be for that perfect fifty yard line logo picture. The fun at a Lions game begins outside in the Pride Plaza. Food trucks and a variety of football related games will welcome fans along with a DJ and short zip line. The Lions drumline, Honolulu Boom performs outside before the game and again inside. Once nearing kickoff, the energy level increases with performances by Honolulu Boom and the Detroit Lions Cheerleaders, leading to the player introductions with entry from the southwest corner. The rest of the gameday experience is what would be expected at any NFL venue with the mascot, Roary, taking part in promotions and on field excitement. Everything is ratcheted up after a Lions touchdown where Theo Spight belts out his rendition of “Gridiron Heroes,” possibly the best fight song in the entire NFL. Spight’s rendition of the classic tune, modernizes the song from the thirties and makes it a critical part of the atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 The last two decades have produced a distinct change in downtown Detroit. Currently, there are plenty of places to go for some pre or post game food and drinks. These include Hockeytown Cafe, Fishbones, Delmar Detroit and Harbor House. It has taken some time to get to this point, but the necessity of heading right to the car after the Lions game is no longer a necessity. Right across the street from Ford Field is Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers . The Pistons and Red Wings play at Little Caesars Arena, which is just on the other side of the Fisher Freeway. Fans of college hoops can head over to the University of Detroit Mercy and take in a Detroit Mercy Titans game at the hidden gem, Calihan Hall. The Fox Theatre, Gem Theatre, and Greektown Casino provide other avenues for entertainment within steps of the stadium. The Hilton Garden Inn and Atheneum Suites provide hotel options within walking distance of the Lions. Fans 4 It is hard to find a group of fans that are more loyal than Detroit Lion fans. To refer to them as long-suffering may be an understatement. In 2022 the Lions have ranked close to the bottom of the league in attendance. However, the 65,000 capacity is pretty small by NFL standards. In 2021, the Lions ranked dead last in the NFL with a capacity below 80 percent. This could be because of the pandemic and the nearby border to Canada being closed. In the end, however, Detroit Lions fans are loud and passionate and have stuck with a team for a long time when the on-field product has given them little reason to return to the stadium. Access 3 Getting to Ford Field can be a bit of a challenge, but some pre-planning can go a long way. Fans coming in by car should be prepared to get there early and maneuver some traffic. There are plenty of parking options within the vicinity. Pre-purchasing parking through a parking app is the best option. There is some tailgating in Detroit and fans driving, who do not want to tailgate should plan well and avoid those lots. The Greektown garage is a pretty good option. For fans wanting to take public transit, The Detroit People Mover loops around downtown Detroit. There are also bus stops that run along Beaubien to the south. Check out the Detroit People Mover , Detroit Department of Transportation and SmartBus websites for schedules, fares and maps. If getting to Ford Field is a bit of a challenge, leaving the stadium can be painstaking. The flood of pedestrians and plenty of traffic in a very small area makes driving out of downtown a real challenge. The NFL has some of the tightest security and getting into Ford Field, even two hours before kickoff, is not super quick. Fans should research before heading out and know the latest security details, including bag policy by checking out the Lions and Ford Field websites. Return on Investment 3 The Detroit Lions are a great experience, but as with any NFL experience, fans are going to pay. The lions are relatively cost effective as compared to other NFL teams. With a fan cost index of over $480, the Lions ranked 29th most expensive in 2021. Fans heading to the Detroit Lions game will undoubtedly enjoy themselves, however, even with a relatively affordable experience compared to other NFL spots, the Lions remain a pricey endeavor. The NFL pushes the "once in a lifetime" pricing model which pushes fans to view NFL games as a necessary luxury. Extras 4 An extra mark for the announcement that the Lions will erect a bronze statue of the likeness of NFL Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders in front of Ford Field before the 2023 season. This would be the first such honour for any Lion. An extra mark for Theo Spight and “Gridiron Heroes” the touchdown song of the Lions which is sung live after each trip to the end zone and victory. The song is old school but sung in a modern, catchy way. An extra mark for the hearty Detroit Lions fans who have endured years of futility and still come out to support their Lions each game. An extra mark for the traditional Lions game on Thanksgiving Day. An NFL tradition for decades. Final Thoughts Whether it is enjoying the fun in the Pride Plaza or belting out Gridiron Heroes with Theo Spight, the fans of the Detroit Lions make the most of their experience each and every game. Not being required to sit through the cold Detroit winters is a plus and the loyalty of Lions is unquestioned after a long drought of on-field success. Taking in a Lions game is something that all football fans should consider in their travels. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

Photos by Will Halpern , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Holmes Convocation Center 111 Rivers St Boone, NC 28608 Appalachian State Mountaineers website Holmes Convocation Center website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 8,325 Basketball Is Growing in Boone North Carolina’s High Country is a unique region, shaped by bluegrass music, beautiful mountainous landscapes, local shops and restaurants, and the many decked-out black and gold supporters of Appalachian State University, which is based in the largest town in the High Country, in the Northwestern corner of the state, Boone. Although the basketball program does play second fiddle to a nationally known football program down the road at Kidd Brewer Stadium, you’d never know it when you see Holmes Convocation Center, the Mountaineers’ home since 2000, a beautiful brick facade that blends seamlessly into the beautiful ASU campus. Holmes Center replaced the aging Varsity Gymnasium that served the team from 1968 to 2000, and still hosts the Mountaineer wrestling program The arena opened nearly two decades ago with a matchup against perennial power North Carolina , and the 8,325-seat arena hosts both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, volleyball, and indoor track and field. The High Country Grizzlies, a minor league indoor football team, also played at Holmes for the 2017 and 2018 seasons before folding. The Mountaineers have not had a March Madness appearance since 2000, right before christening the Holmes Convocation Center, and while the team competes in a deep Sun Belt Conference, the Mountaineer Basketball program is hopeful of building the kind of winning tradition that their football program sees year in and year out. Food & Beverage 3 The Holmes Convocation Center concessions options won’t overwhelm you by any means with its variety – their main concessions stand offers hamburgers or cheeseburgers ($6), hot dogs ($3), chili dogs or cheese dogs ($4), chili cheese dogs ($5), large fountain Pepsi sodas or slushies ($4), small sodas, slushies, or large coffees ($3), and small coffees ($2). Snack offerings include a large popcorn or nachos ($4) with a side of chili or cheese for a dollar extra each; a small popcorn is three dollars. There are a variety of dessert options including Minute Maid Frozen plain or strawberry lemonade and Ben and Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge or Cookie Dough ice cream. Finally, if you want something beyond what you can find at the main concessions stand, Woodlands BBQ based out of neighboring Blowing Rock offers sandwiches for six dollars with or without slaw. Prices on everything are reasonable but with the plethora of restaurants nearby, it would be best to grab some food before or after an ASU basketball game. Atmosphere 4 Holmes Convocation Center is not your classic mid-major basketball arena, and that’s what makes seeing a game here an experience. Everything from the white fencing covering the glass windows on the building’s exterior, to the indoor track circling the concourse, to the three colors of chairback seats in the arena’s seating bowl, makes it unique. The Holmes Convocation Center is also different from its counterparts in having a video board jumbotron hanging at center court that is sizable for any mid-major basketball venue. On top of the video board and also above the tunnel where the Mountaineer players come out there is a sign saying “Welcome to Boone Elevation 3,333 Feet”, reminding fans and visitors alike of ASU’s status as the highest elevated Division 1 school east of the Mississippi – giving them a home-court advantage of sorts. While the arena can seat over eight thousand fans, most of the upper bowl seats are curtained off, with the exception of a small section at center court. ASU boasts a talented pep band and cheerleading squad, and the Mountaineer mascot, Yosef, entertains fans throughout the game, while the PA Announcer does a great job in engaging the fans with promotions and contests. All of this contributes to a fun game day atmosphere in a unique basketball arena. Neighborhood 4 Holmes Convocation Center is located on the southeast corner of App State’s campus about a half-mile from King Street, Boone’s main drag. King Street is the place to go before or after any ASU event or if you’re visiting Boone for any reason. King Street has a great food scene, including Our Daily Bread, which offers more than twenty-five specialty sandwiches like the Smoked Ham and Apple Press, Brie BLT, and the ODB Club which features turkey, ham, bacon, and cheddar and swiss cheese with lettuce, tomato, and their special sauce between layers of rye and pumpernickel bread. Another great place to check out is Macados, which offers not only thirty different sandwiches and wraps but also hot dogs and specialty burgers. The menu features also specialty beer and wine, and more than twenty hurricane mixed drinks, along with several big-screen TVs to watch that day’s Mountaineer or other big game. Saebing Boone King offers Vietnamese and Thai cusine, including sushi. There is also Boone Saloon, a local favorite that serves up traditional American bar food with appetizers, sandwiches, soups, and salads including five different types of mac and cheese, and a variety of drink options. All of these places are blocks from each other on King Street, but restaurants and bars are not all you will find on King Street. King Street Creamery serves up delicious ice cream and coffee, while Mast General Store is a two-level outdoor store that offers everything from outdoor equipment, candy, and souvenirs to bluegrass CDs from local and regional artists. Boone Rock-n-roll Emporium is another place to find a hodgepodge of different items, such as t-Shirts, posters, books, and music. Other places to check out when strolling down King Street include Appalachian Antiques, Foggy Pine Books, and High Country Souvenirs, as well as the numerous places to buy t-shirts, hoodies, and other Mountaineer apparel. Boone also hosts many festivals throughout the year including the First Friday Art Crawl, and is also a Mecca for fans of outdoor activities, given its proximity to the beautiful scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. There are countless places to hike, bike, ski, camp, or just relax and have a picnic and enjoy the views; Clawson-Burnley Park and Howard’s Knob Country Park are both less than ten minutes from downtown Boone and the Holmes Convocation Center. Those who want to stay in the area after the basketball game is over can camp at the Flintlock and Honey Bear Camping sites – both just ten minutes from ASU’s campus. Those who are interested in learning how to rock climb should check out Center 45 Climbing and Fitness just five minutes away, and just a fifteen-minute drive from campus is Blowing Rock, with its local restaurants, shops, and outdoor areas. There are a number of places near Holmes Convocation Center and the ASU campus to stay overnight or longer. There are chain options such as Hampton Inn & Suites, Quality Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott, which are all a short five-minute trip from the arena. However, if you’re looking for an affordable but slightly nicer option check out Master Hosts Resorts-Highland Hills Cabins. Offering rustic wooden bedrooms, a hot tub, and an outdoor pool, this quaint hotel is located about two miles from the Holmes Convocation Center. Fans 3 The bar is set incredibly high by the loud, dedicated, and passionate fans decked out in black and gold down the road at Kidd Brewer Stadium, and to be clear, while the basketball program is trying to build to become one of the contenders in the Sun Belt Conference, it is not there yet, and twenty years without an NCAA appearance can leave many in Boone apathetic about ASU hoops. At the last game I saw, the official attendance was just over 2,000 – it looked like only a little more than half the lower bowl was filled (the upper level seats are tarped off). However, the fans who were in attendance were very engaged and loud throughout the game, helping to propel the Mountaineers from an eighteen point first-half deficit to an eventual victory. If the team fortune’s go on an upswing, then the Holmes Convocation Center has the potential to really come alive in the coming years. Access 4 Getting to Holmes Convocation Center is fairly easy; traffic is never a huge problem. As you approach the arena, however, parking can be a little tricky. Luckily there are parking garages nearby, as well as a hill you can park on top of, though if you have trouble walking up or down a steep slope, it might be better to park in the garage and take the short walk. In order to enter the arena, you will need to walk up a set of stairs, although the Southwest entrance has a ramp and an elevator for those who are not able to walk up steps. The concourse is very wide and it’s easy to navigate, there is plenty of ADA seating, and the restrooms are very clean. The closest major airports to Boone are Charlotte-Douglas Airport about two hours away, Piedmont-Triad Airport in Greensboro, and Tri-Cities Airport near Johnson City, Tennessee, the latter two of which are both about ninety minutes away from campus. While nothing is super convenient you have a beautiful drive in or out of Boone to enjoy. If you are looking to come to Boone by public transportation, Sunway Charter offers bus service from Greensboro or Charlotte to Boone for just $34 roundtrip, which drops you off a quarter mile from the Holmes Convocation Center. Return on Investment 4 App State Basketball tickets are ten or fifteen dollars each, though sometimes you can find tickets for less on the secondary market. Concessions are affordable and you are unlikely to spend more than ten dollars, which with complimentary parking puts the price tag of attending a Mountaineers game at only about twenty-five dollars per person. That’s a great value for two hours of hoops in one of the most scenic and vibrant areas you can visit. Extras 5 One point goes to the talented ASU pep band, who played upbeat tunes and kept the fans excited throughout the contest. The second point goes to the indoor track circulating the concourse, which is not super common in college basketball arenas. A third point goes to the team’s entrance through a lit-up smoked-filled tunnel, a nice touch especially at a mid-major basketball game. Point number four goes to the large video board and finally, a point for hosting their football team on the court at halftime, and the football team posters given out in the concourses. Not only did this allow fans to give the football team the support they deserve, but it fired up the fans and the basketball team to make their amazing comeback. Final Thoughts Appalachian State is known for two main things: a picturesque campus and a nationally prominent football program. The basketball team is looking to capture the success of their neighbors on the gridiron, and while both the Holmes Convocation Center and their NCAA Tournament drought has lasted two decades, the program is trying to reach new heights in the High Country, and all it may take is a conference champion or two to move the team and the arena from being an afterthought to a destination in mid-major basketball.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Northwest Florida State Baseball Complex 100 E College Blvd Niceville, FL 32578 NWF Raiders website Northwest Florida State Baseball Complex website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 800 Juco Baseball on the Beach Northwest Florida State College is a large public state college located on the outskirts of Eglin Air Force Base in Niceville, Florida, about ten miles north of the beach resort town of Destin. The college originally opened in 1963 as Okaloosa-Walton Community College, and a temporary campus was constructed on the base of Eglin until the permanent location opened at its present site in 1969. NWF began offering four-year degrees in 2003, changing its name to Northwest Florida State College in the process. NWF is unique in that even though they are a four-year state college they still compete on the JUCO level as members of NJCAA Panhandle Conference. The conference includes 5 schools, all in the panhandle of Florida – NWF, Pensacola State College , Gulf Coast State College, Chipola College, and Tallahassee Community College. Since the first season of NWF Baseball in 1992 the Raiders have been one of the better teams in the Panhandle Conference. The Raiders have won Panhandle Conference four times (1996, 2000, 2011, and 2019), and made 12 FCSAA/Region 8 postseason appearances. Perhaps the best season was in 2015 when they advanced to and won the NJCAA World Series, claiming the Raiders first and only National Championship. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand open at the front entrance of the Baseball Complex that has a limited menu – hot dogs and Gatorade at $3; popcorn, candy, and water at $2; chips and coffee at $1. Canned drinks are also sold for $2 but they only have Coke and Sprite. They also sell NWF baseball hats in three different colors and styles for $20 a hat. I thought it was really cool they sell the hats, as NWF has a really cool logo. Atmosphere 3 Northwest Florida Baseball Complex opened in 1992 and features capacity for about 800 fans The field faces northeast and is located on the back side of campus. There is one main entrance behind home plate, with the main feature that stands out being the large 2015 National Champions sign that greets you as you enter the Baseball Complex. The concessions stand is right under the large brick press box tower behind home plate as soon as you enter the Complex. The grandstand features 10 rows of metal bleacher seating that extend from home plate to the dugouts. It can get kind of crammed here as you cannot see the game from anywhere except the bleachers. There is not a lot of standing room here either as you cannot walk in front of the bleachers; there is just a little space near the dugout for you to stand. So for the most part you are confined to the grandstands. The visitors’ dugout is down the first base line, while the third base line features the home dugout and clubhouse, which includes locker rooms and indoor batting cages for the baseball and softball teams. They also have some outdoor batting cages that the visiting team utilizes. The outfield signage features local business advertisements alongside a crimson picket fence, giving the NWF Baseball Complex a real small, hometown feel. I almost felt like I was at a small-town high school baseball game. A basic scoreboard also sits in left field that shows the line score and says ‘2015 National Champions’ along the top. The school’s athletic facilities provide the backdrop beyond the outfield. The Raiders Softball Complex takes up the left field and is constructed as an exact replica of the Baseball Complex. If you want some good views of the baseball game you can even sit in the softball bleachers that loom over the outfield wall. The school’s basketball home, the Arena at NWF sits in right field next to a large on-campus water tower that provides an impressive view from the bleachers. Neighborhood 3 There’s not much happening in Niceville, as it remains mostly a retirement and military community. The college sits just off base property and the neighboring areas consist of woods and outlying airfields. However, there are few places in the city worth checking out – a few miles south of the college is Turkey Creek Trail, which features a boardwalk over a beautiful crystal clear creek. The trail runs deep into the woods and even has spots where you can hop off the boardwalk and go swimming in the creek. The U.S. Air Force Armament Museum also sits nearby in an old airplane hangar. When driving by you can’t miss the place as giant planes are scattered on the grounds. Inside are 29 restored vintage airplanes as well as the largest collection of artifacts and memorabilia associated with the Air Force. The museum has free admission and remains a hidden gem spot if you are in the area and want to experience something different than the beach life. But if you want to experience this area of Florida at its best you just have to go about 10 miles south of campus to one of the top tourist destinations in the country, the Emerald Coast. Destin remains the most popular resort town on the Emerald Coast, with 80 percent of the over 5 million tourists each year who visit staying in Destin. The beach is what brings most people to the area, but the Destin area has something for everyone. For those who like shopping, Destin has two full-sized outdoor shopping malls, Destin Commons and Silver Sands Premium Outlets. For nature lovers there are two state parks, Henderson Beach State Park and Grayton Beach State Park, with secluded beach access and plenty of camping and bike trails. For family activities, Destin has a water park and two amusement parks with rides and small roller coasters (Big Kahuna’s and The Track). Destin is also known as a sportsman’s paradise with its nickname as the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. Countless marinas offer public and private charter fishing. You can go 80 miles out in the gulf to fish in deep waters or you can fish in the bay, or take a trip out to Crab Island, a popular sandbar right under the Destin Bridge in the Pass which is only accessible by water and boat. There are also over 20 golf courses in the area ranging from public to private – Destin is known as the “Golf Capital” of Northwest Florida. The area also has many restaurants in all the little beach communities around Destin. You may spot Jerry Jones, Emeril Lagasse, Tim McGraw, or one of the Mannings while dining at one of the many Five Star restaurants in Baytowne Village, or you could visit the more touristy restaurants and bars at Destin Harbor or Okaloosa Island. But to experience Destin like the locals, try some of the upscale seafood restaurants at Miramar Beach or in the Sandestin area, or to experience another famous section check out Seaside, a community which is most famous for being the filming site of The Truman Show with Jim Carrey. Yes, Destin and the whole area have it all and you could spend weeks in the area and have plenty to do. Fans 3 There were only a couple of hundred fans in attendance at my most recent visit. It can get kind of cramped in the bleachers because there is no standing room and everybody is confined to the grandstands. A lot of time you will be stepping over people when getting up and going to the restroom or concessions; luckily at least there is a lot of legroom in the metal bleachers. Because of its beach location NWF also attracts a lot more visiting fans than most junior colleges would. Many players’ parents take advantage of weekend series here by getting to watch their son play college baseball and get a weekend beach trip out of the deal. During my most recent visit, the Raiders played a Junior College from Mississippi and there were more visiting fans than Raiders fans. After talking to some of their fans they told me that they were all staying at the same hotel on the beach for the weekend. Access 2 There are two ways to get to NW; if coming from out of town to the north take I-10 to the Crestview exit, then drive about 20 minutes south on Highway 85. The highway is a rural back road that runs through Air Force Base property so there is little there in terms of scenery. The college is conveniently located on the corner of College Blvd and Highway 85, with the NWF Baseball Complex located on the back side of the campus. But if coming from the south the Mid-Bay Bridge runs right out of Destin and onto Highway 85. The bridge is a toll road and is constantly having work done on it, so the three-mile bridge could take upwards of twenty minutes to cross. Once on campus the stadium is easy to find; just look for the giant water tower and beautiful basketball arena . There are also plenty of parking lots so that shouldn’t be an issue. Once inside the actual Baseball Complex the only areas you are free to move around in is the bleachers, so it could get kind of crammed during a packed game. Return on Investment 4 There is a table set up at the main gate where they sell general admission tickets for $5, and you are free to sit anywhere in the grandstands with these. During the most recent game I was at there was actually a player serving as a ticket taker. I loved the small-town laid-back feel here. You are also free to leave and come back as many times as you want, as I left during the game to ride my bike around campus for about an hour, before coming back to watch the rest of the game. With the cheap concessions one can purchase a ticket, drink, and hot dog for less than $10. Also you get to see some of the top JUCO players in the State of Florida. Early in the season NWF plays schools from as far away as Miami, so you are guaranteed to see some players that will eventually be taken in the MLB Draft. Extras 4 The Raiders have had seven players make it to the Big Leagues in the program’s history. The most notable alumni include Outfielder Jason Michaels who had an 11-year career with the Phillies, Mets, and Astros; relief pitcher Tony Sipp who played 11 seasons with the Indians, Astros, and Nationals, and won back-to-back World Series rings in 2018 and 2019; all-star pitcher Hector Santiago who played with the White Sox, Twins, and Mariners; and Pensacola native pitcher Jeff Farnsworth who was drafted in the second round out of NWF in 1996 and spent the 2002 season in the bullpen for the Tigers. Headed into the current season there are currently six NWF alumni on minor league rosters, as well as one in the Majors. The college also gets in national spotlight every November around Thanksgiving, as the arena in right field hosts the Emerald Coast Classic College Basketball Tournament. The first year of the tournament was in 2014 and usually takes place during Feast Week, college basketball’s version of Bowl season. Ole Miss, Iowa State, Virginia, Creighton, Cincinnati, Florida State, Tennessee, and LSU are just some of the top basketball teams to come through the campus to play games. Another extra for the historical significance of the campus – in the beginning of 1942 Air Force Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle used Eglin AFB and the area where the campus is located as a training ground for a secret mission. Ultimately they were putting the plans in motion to bomb Tokyo in retaliation for Japan’s bombing of Pearl Harbor. The Tokyo Raid marked a major turning point in the US’ favor during WWII and Doolittle would receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for his efforts. When the current campus opened in 1963 the teams were nicknamed the Raiders in honor of Jimmy Doolittle and his crew. For years the surviving members of Doolittle’s Raiders would hold their annual reunion on the campus. NWF’s mascot is even a World War II era pilot named Jimmy; there is a small historical display at the front of the Arena’s main entrance. Another extra just for the college’s prime location less than 20 miles from some of the whitest beaches and clearest waters in the country. It has to be cool for some of these players to go to college so close to the beach.

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Warrior Stadium 100 Skyway Dr. 130 San Jose, CA 95111 Map It Valley Christian Warriors website Warrior Stadium website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 56,000 Welcome to Warrior Stadium In an area of the country that is stacked to the gills with tech companies and massive property valuations, Valley Christian High School stands above its peers. With an expansive view of the Bay Area, Warrior Field is the place to be on a Friday night. Watching from the homestands, one can see the distant skyline of downtown San Jose to the left and the rolling hills of Silicon Valley to the right. Indeed, it is a unique view.  Even though the school is loaded with the offspring of corporate big-wigs that are bound for the upper echelon of the corporate world, the Valley Christian football program has continued to produce talented teams and individuals in the midst of one the toughest leagues in the Bay Area, the vaunted West Catholic Athletic League. Ever since taking over the program in 1997, coach Mike Machado has transformed the Valley Christian Warriors into a force to be reckoned with , claiming seven Central Coast Section (CCS) c hampionships and making an appearance in the state championship in 2016. He's done so mu ch, all the while fielding teams with local legends such as Jeff Schweiger, Cameron, and Byron Marshall, as well as the University of Oregon’s Jurrion Dickey.  But Warrior Stadium is much more than the championships won, the greatness imbued, and the memories made. It is an ongoing story that resembles the school’s motto, “Quest for Excellence.” After winning three straight CCS championships from 2002-2004, it still felt like Warrior Stadium was missing something: lights. Finally illuminated in the bright lights of Friday nights in 2005, the Valley Christian Warriors served as a beacon of excellence as they promptly won their fourth straight CCS title.  That four-year span of excellence spurred the campus in a way that their administrators could only hope for. By 2009, the football team had outgrown their tiny weight room that lay beneath the bleachers and erected a massive three-story building right next to the bleachers. Tha t structure w ould ultimately house a training room at the bottom, a larger weight room in the middle, and a couple of classrooms at the top. Five years later, the school added a solar-powered roof to the home bleachers. The new feature was perfect for providing much-needed shade on scorching days during track meets and graduations.  They didn’t stop there. Towards the end of the decade, the Warriors added a large digital video board, and by 2022, they added another weight room directly behind the endzone. Now, the players can lift weights right there on the football field.  Food & Beverage 3 The day of our visit was Homecoming, which means that Valley Christian went all out in creating the perfect party atmosphere. And what party doesn’t have great food? In front of the stadium, they had several food trucks with numerous tables set before a stage where live music was being played. It almost felt like a company picnic. Upon entering the stadium, one was met with even more food trucks as well as a couple of tents for Chick-fil-A and Greenlee’s that were adjacent to the alumni corner, a hub of humanity where food was served for free, and memories were rehashed, and friendships were lit anew as Homecoming festivities roamed around them. While the prices varied, it didn’t seem to deter people from buying those expensive nachos and waffles.  While all this was very entertaining, it’s worth noting that none of this is here every week. Most weeks, Valley has its food options, including a tri-tip sandwich that I’m told is quite scrumptious. Warrior Stadium Food Trucks, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 4 A Warrior's football game is an unbelievable experience. From the big digital board that consistently announces another first down with exuberance to the flag bearers th at run ar ound the home track as the Warriors score yet another touchdown. In the end, everyone is invited down to the field to congratulate the players and coaches on a job well done. The Homecoming game was a perfect way to end an event that was catered to making the fans feel like family right from the start.  As grandiose as Warrior Stadium can be, it does have one glaring flaw: a biting wind-chill. While it wasn’t too breezy that day, as the day turned to night, you could feel the seasons change from Summer to Fall. It never reached anywhere near below 60 F, but the wind chill made up the difference. If you plan on attending a game, it may be wise to bring a light jacket or sweater. Neighborhood 2 As opulent as Valley Christian High School may be, its surrounding neighborhood is a completely different story. The houses vary from well-kept to near-slum level. The higher you go up the Hill, the cleaner the environment. Interestingly, it’s the back of the Hill where the neighborhood is unkempt and the front of the Hill where the neighborhood is much more affluent and safer to drive through. In case of a fire, there’s a fire station nestled against the Hill. But as desolate as the immediate neighborhood can seem, the surrounding environment is a different story. Just down the Hill on Skyway Dr. and to the left of Snell Ave. is a wide array of popular restaurants. These include places less than two miles away, such as High Five Pizza, McDonald's, and Panda Express, to places just a little farther down Snell, such as Tomo Sushi, Dunkin Donuts, and a second McDonalds, perfect for that McFlurry that you may have forgotten to order before indulging in that Big Mac just minutes before. To say the least, one can hardly go hungry in this environment. There are numerous hotels along the expansive Monterey Highway, including a Days Inn by Wyndham within walking distance from Warrior Stadium and a Clarion Inn just a short drive down the highway.  If you want to make a weekend out of your visit, there are usually several sporting events happening in San Jose and its neighbors. Whether it’s the 49ers , Sharks , Barracuda, Giants (SF) , Giants (SJ) ,  Warriors (G-League), or the Golden State Warriors , it’s hard not to find a weekend that isn’t filled with entertainment options. If you plan wisely, it can be one of the most entertaining weekends of your life.  Fans 4 You can feel a familial sense of community here as generations of fans gather to root for their beloved Warriors while sharing stories of past victories. You can practically feel the earth shake as they stomp their feet, rooting for the defense.  What is interesting is that there is a lot of cheering for the away team on the Warriors’ side of the stadium during the junior varsity game. It’s probably because they don’t provide shade for the away team’s portable bleachers. The varsity game is different as that is played during the night, not during the heat of the day. Access 2 Homecoming or not, parking on the Hill can be dicey for a varsity football game, with spots filling up faster than you can finish this sentence. Thankfully, the school has two satellite parking lots a short distance from campus, with shuttles moving about every 20 minutes. If you’re coming down Skyway Dr. towards campus, all you have to do is turn left or right on the expansive Monterey Highway.  To the left and just past Capitol Expressway is one of the lots, located just to the right off of Fehren Drive. To the right and just past Blossom Hill Road is the other parking lot, located just to the left on Ford Road.  If you don’t plan on driving, either Uber or Lyft are viable options. There are also three bus stops on Monterey Highway that are each a short walk from the Hill.  Once you reach the stadium, the atmosphere is much different than an NFL game. There are no bag checks, and while there is security roaming around, you needn’t worry about going through any screening process. The stadium has relatively clean restrooms underneath the stands. Return on Investment 3 With this being Homecoming, the $12 spent on GoFans.com is well spent. If you want something to eat, your wallet is bound to get lighter. All in all, it’s the environment and the people that make this an evening well spent, a worthwhile investment. . Extras 3 Both the marching bands and cheerleaders are excellent. Along with the flag bearers running around and the video board announcing each touchdown in a spectacular display of both font and color, the school has worked hard to put together the total package of Friday Night Lights.  Final Thoughts If you ever find yourself in San Jose on a Friday night with nothing to do, it will be worth your while to go to a game at Warrior Stadium. Sure, it has its issues. But no stadium is perfect. So brave that shuttle service, bring a light sweater, and get ready to watch some good football in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The Hillsboro Hops have changed course. Originally planning to renovate Ron Tonkin Field to comply with Major League Baseball's new facility standards, the Class A Hops will instead construct a new stadium that the franchise intends will host 300 events annually. The new stadium will be built at Hillsboro's Gordon Faber Recreation Complex, where Tonkin Field currently sits. The design-build team of Mortenson, SRG and Populous will begin construction in late summer 2023. The stadium is expected to open in time for the Hops' 2025 season. In 2020, Major League Baseball imposed requirements for all minor league facilities that include minimum standards for field lighting, player areas, and security. Upon evaluating the costs to renovate Tonkin Field, the Hops' home since 2013, the team and the City of Hillsboro determined that construction of a new ballpark would be more cost-effective. “The City appreciates the Hops as a partner and recognizes the unique value the organization brings to the community. Creating a more robust regional entertainment destination will provide long term benefits to the City as well as the Hops,” said Hillsboro City Manager Robby Hammond in a press release. Construction of the new stadium is expected to cost approximately $120 million -- well more than Tonkin Field's $15.5 million cost when it opened a decade ago. Initial plans call for capacities of 6,000 for baseball games and 7,000 for concerts and other events. The Hops are privately financing most of the cost of the new stadium. The team will have full operational control of the new stadium. The City of Hillsboro will retain ownership and operation of Tonkin Field. Rendering of New Stadium, Courtesy of the Hillsboro Hops

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 JetBlue Park 11581 Daniels Pkwy Fort Myers, FL 33913 Boston Red Sox Spring Training website JetBlue Park website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 10,823 Red Sox Are Flying First Class JetBlue Park at Fenway South (we will use JetBlue Park for brevity’s sake) opened in 2012 as a replacement for the Red Sox's longtime home at City of Palms Park. City of Palms Park did not offer the ability to have both the game stadium and the training facility at the same site. The Red Sox training facility now surrounds the 11,000-seat JetBlue Stadium, offering six different practice fields. JetBlue’s playing field replicates the exact dimensions of Fenway Park… 310’ to left field, 379’ to left center, 420’ to deep center, and 380’ to right field. It also has its own Green Monster in left field. These identical settings help prepare the Red Sox players for the conditions they will face in home games during the regular season. Food & Beverage 5 Unlike most spring training ballparks, JetBlue Park offers a great selection of food and beverages before you even enter the park gates. It’s their way of recreating the Yawkey Way feel at the Red Sox spring training home. Yawkey Way becomes Fenway South Drive with a menu geared to remind you of New England. In the first food tent, you’ll find Rib City BBQ, Pinchers Crab Shack which offers your favorite crab rolls and crab nachos, as well as Grouper sandwiches and Grouper tacos. Dutchkinz is also on hand, as it offers some great beignets. Finally, Taste of Fenway South offers lobster rolls and Fenway franks. Once inside JetBlue Park, most of your food and beverage choices will consist of traditional stadium favorites. Home Plate Pizza offers up pizza slices ($6), a Wally Bowl of ice cream ($8), chips ($2.75), and candy ($2.50). The 3rd Base Grill serves chicken tenders ($10), Italian sausages ($7.25), cheeseburgers ($7.25), jumbo hot dogs ($6), and French fries ($6.50). The Fenway South stand carries pizza slices ($6), meatball sandwiches ($8.50), pretzels ($5), cotton candy ($3), and milkshakes ($6). Taste of Fenway takes you back to BAH-STON, with a set of Bay State favorites, including lobster rolls ($20), Fenway franks ($5), ice cream helmets ($5.50), and popcorn ($7.50). All stands serve Coca-Cola brand sodas for $7. Bottled water is $5. The beer selection will differ from stand to stand. Atmosphere 5 The designers of JetBlue Park have done a great job of bringing all the things that make Fenway special into a stadium that also needs to take the Florida heat and sun into account. Before you even enter the stadium, you’ll see the familiar statue of Ted Williams that stood at the City of Palms Stadium. Nearby you’ll see a set of numbers on the Hall of Fame Plaza. These numbers belonged to an elite set of Red Sox players, who had their numbers retired after their playing days were over. They belonged to Ted Williams, Bobby Doerr, Joe Cronin, Johnny Pesky, Carl Yastrzemski, Jim Rice, Carlton Fisk, and Jackie Robinson, whose number was retired throughout baseball. Once inside the park, you will continue to see the things that make Fenway Park special. You have the Green Monster on left and the Pesky Pole along the right field foul line. You’ll also notice the unique “triangle” in right field that makes it so difficult for visiting players to play a ball off the wall. If you are sitting in the right-field bleachers you’ll notice a single red stadium seat sitting by itself, well beyond the outfield wall. This seat represents the distance from home plate that the longest home run ever hit in Fenway Park traveled, courtesy of Ted Williams's bat. Neighborhood 3 Hurricane Ian caused catastrophic damage in the Ft. Myers area. Despite its distance from the coast, JetBlue Park suffered damage to its signage, light poles, and padding along the walls. All of that damage was repaired well before the spring training season began. However, many parts of Ft. Myers have still not recovered. Before you head out to a restaurant or attraction in the area, it is a good idea to call ahead and make sure it is open. The immediate space around the Red Sox training facility is being reserved for future development. There are several restaurants lining Daniels Parkway. Fort Myers Brewing Company is a postgame hotspot, as it is only 1.5 miles from the ballpark. Fat Katz Sports Bistro offers another popular postgame site that is especially popular with Red Sox fans. One non-sports attraction in the Ft Myers area is the Edison- Firestone Estate. Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone both had winter homes in Ft. Myers. They are virtually next door to each other. They provide a terrific look into the lifestyles of the rich and famous of yesteryear, but they also provide you with a look at the other inventions Edison created beside the light bulb. Fans 4 Depending on who you talk to, Boston Red Sox fans are either the most obnoxious, conceited fans ever…...or the most knowledgeable, loyal fans in the world. All we know is that half of the Bay State comes to Florida for Red Sox spring training. A ticket to a game at JetBlue Park is by far the hottest ticket in the Grapefruit League. Maybe it’s the stadium…. maybe it’s the food…. All we know is the stadium is packed for every game. There’s no need to worry that the JetBlue ushers and vendors won’t understand your New England accent here…... most of them are retirees from the New England states who moved down to Florida to escape from the region’s harsh winters! The portion of the crowd that didn’t fly down from Massachusetts to catch a few games…. are the locals from Ft. Myers… who decided to retire from their jobs in Massachusetts…and picked Ft. Myers because it is the longtime spring training home of the Red Sox! It also explains why they did not retire to Tampa…. home of the Yankees' spring training facility! Access 4 JetBlue Park is very easy to get to as it is less than 2 miles from I-75. It is also less than a mile from the Southwest Florida International Airport if you are flying in from out of state. Gates at JetBlue Park open two hours prior to the first pitch. This leaves you plenty of time to check out the stadium. Return on Investment 3 JetBlue Park has a wide variety of price points as far as tickets. Due to the popularity of the Red Sox, the tickets are much more expensive than at neighboring Grapefruit League ballparks. Tickets are broken down into Grandstand and Box seats. Grandstand seats are further from the field, while boxes tend to be at field level. The cheapest seats are atop the Green Monster and are considered SRO ($15). The Bleacher seats beyond the right field wall are $19. The Grandstand seats in the right field and along the first baseline are $20. Grandstand seats in the infield are $35, while Grandstand seats behind home plate are $38. Right field and first baseline box seats cost $39. Box seats behind home plate are the most expensive at $68. Oddly enough, some of the hardest tickets to get are amongst the cheapest seats in JetBlue Park. Seats inside the Green Monster are only $35. However, there are only three rows of seats inside it. The area on top of the Green Monster is even cheaper, at $15. However, these are “standing room only” and are limited for safety reasons. Parking at JetBlue Park is $12 in the East and West Lots nearest the ballpark. Credit cards only for payment. Extras 4 In keeping with Fenway tradition, JetBlue Park has a singalong of “Sweet Caroline” in the middle of the eighth inning. When the Red Sox wins the game, “Dirty Water” is played. JetBlue Park is only 6 miles from Hammond Park, the spring training home of the Minnesota Twins. This allows you to get in a day/night doubleheader if you are trying to see as many spring training stadiums as possible during your visit. The scoreboard at the base of the Green Monster has quite a history with the Red Sox. You will notice the number on the scoreboard has to be hand changed at the end of every half-inning by a stadium worker. This very scoreboard was used at Fenway Park before 1934 when it was taken out and replaced by an electronic board. One thing that will not remind you of Fenway Park is the roof at JetBlue Park. It is very modern, with several wing-like sections. The reason for this roof design is simple…. It provides the most shade from the sun of any stadium in the Grapefruit League. The wings also allow the breeze to get under the roof to cool off the fans sitting in the stands. Final Thoughts JetBlue Park has received great reviews for its architectural design, which helps to keep the fans out of the sun and as cool as possible during the springtime afternoons in Florida. It has also been applauded for including the many quirks of Fenway Park in its design. Still, others love the New England cuisine available inside and outside the stadium. Whatever the reason, we must agree that JetBlue Park is a great place to watch a game.

Photos by Conrad Klank, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing Meadows Corona Park Flushing Meadows, NY 11368 US Open website Billie Jean King National Tennis Center website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 46,900 Aces in the Big Apple The US Open is exactly what it's cracked up to be: the biggest matches on the biggest stage, loud, massive hype, long lines, and best of all, drama under the lights! While steroids in the game of tennis may be illegal, tennis itself is all jacked up on steroids in New York City. In more ways than one, the Open fits in very well with the persona and lifestyle of the city in which it resides. The United States Open is one of four prestigious ATP and WTA Grand Slam events where the winner is awarded 2,000 points towards their overall world ranking. The event is held at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, a spectacular tennis facility, which includes a grand total of 28 hard courts, nuzzled right into Flushing Meadows Park. The heart of the property is Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis specific stadium in the world with a capacity of 23,700. Previous center court, Louis Armstrong Stadium, is just to the east of Ashe and it seats 10,200, with the lower bowl reserved for individual ticket sales. Literally in the shadows of Armstrong, Grandstand Court offers the coziest feel where a fan can seemingly be right in the action. The fourth largest stadium and newest, court 17, will boast the ability to host big matches in a very small area. Grandstand and court 17 have capacities of 6,000 and 3,000 respectively. Most impressively, the facility offers 4 additional small 1,000-seat stadium courts which accommodate good crowds for matches all over the grounds. Food & Beverage 4 There is absolutely no way that a person would have trouble finding a number of delicious options for any meal or time of the day. The selection and variety of food is absolutely spectacular. As you would anticipate, the only issue is the price. One should expect to pay a minimum of $15 per meal, and it can go as high as you can imagine depending on hunger, atmosphere, and classiness. The list of places to eat is never-ending, including: a deli, Chinese, a burger stand, Mexican, a franks stand, seafood, Italian, BBQ, crepes, and ice cream stands everywhere. In addition, they offer public and private, indoor and outdoor, dining plazas, which offer a range of menus. Not sure that you can go thirsty either, with a unique bar, lounge, or patio at every turn, serving unique cocktails only found at the tournament, along with the traditional sodas, water, beer, wine, and even flutes of champagne. Atmosphere 4 Overall, the atmosphere was exactly what I expected except for the monstrosity of the facility. Photos and site maps give you no idea of what it feels like when you're walking the grounds or sitting atop of Arthur Ashe Stadium. Every detail of the tournament is supersized and is given the utmost attention. Even during week two, one will hear uproars of fans from outer match courts where the next big star is battling their way through a dramatic fifth set. This creates a feel of excitement, energy, and everlasting memories. Fans will be hard-pressed to match the paramount of vitality found on the grounds of the US Open. Neighborhood 2 When looking at what directly surrounds the tournament, one will find things very sparse. There is virtually nothing in the direct surroundings of the tournament site other than Citi Field , home of the New York Mets . With that being said, the good news is that the tournament is only a short cab ride outside of Manhattan, New York City, home to thousands of brilliant opportunities to eat, drink, relax, dance, mingle, or to just awe at the aura that is New York life. Fans 5 It can't be expressed enough, this is the most populated sporting event of all sports for a reason. Ultimately, as the players would admit, the fans make this event all that it is. People from every walk of life and nationality come together to dress up, paint signs, scream at the top of their lungs and pump their fist in unison with their favorite player after a huge forehand winner up the line. Giant tennis balls, markers, and autograph frenzies are the highlight of a lifetime even for the biggest kids in attendance. Access 4 The three airports in which you have to choose from are John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, and the closest and most convenient to the tournament, LaGuardia. The access into the park is relatively easy no matter which part of the city you are coming from. If you plan to fly, try to book your flight to New York City as early as possible for cheap flights . The Long Island Rail Road and the Metro 7 are the most cost efficient modes of travel right to the doorstep. Be sure to confirm whether or not your hotel offers a tournament shuttle, extremely convenient. One should be very wary of their surroundings as they travel to and from the facility itself. While the public transit is very safe and monitored, it is important that one does not get too comfortable with those around them. The last option, and least appealing, is driving to the tournament. To put it lightly, driving throughout NYC is not the easiest or relaxing task in the world, however, if you're determined, the parking near the site is respectable. The best options that I would recommend are lot H, lots 1-7, and when there isn't a Mets game, the Citi Field parking areas (all around $20). With the Citi Field option you are able to walk to the East gate very easily, public lots 1-7 have shuttles to the East Gate, and lot H to the South Gate. Here's the link to the Parking Map . The biggest thing that will stand out to the ordinary sports fan once they are ready to find their seat inside Arthur Ashe Stadium is the difficult initial access into the stadium. No matter where your seat is, you will enter through one main gate on the south end of the stadium. From there you will want to figure out just how high you will be taking the escalators. Once you reach your appropriate deck you will look for your gate, which may still be a decent walk depending on which end you are sitting. When it comes to restrooms, be prepared to stand in line (what's new?), but there must be a very large deficit in number of restrooms compared to the number of fans on site. This becomes extremely inconvenient and this is where the deduction comes from. Bottom line, if you are expecting to get from your hotel to your seat in time for the match give yourself a minimum of an hour and a half or more, especially on your first journey to the facility (you'll want plenty of time for trial and error, moments to stop and say "WOW", explore, get food and drinks, enter the stadium, and most of all to wait in lines at every step). Return on Investment 3 Even though tennis fans have come to expect high prices overall for the sport, I'm not sure if you're getting the most for your money here. The cheapest ticket to get you in the gate is a grounds pass for $60, which doesn't get you into Arthur Ashe Stadium. However, for only an extra $10-$20, you can sit in the upper decks of Ashe and still get access to all of the other courts on site. The last option to the general public is a ticket to Louis Armstrong Stadium in the lower bowl for around $100. This has pros and cons. While it's more expensive than a nosebleed seat in Ashe, it does get you a reserved seat very close to the top action, but it's also substantially pricier than a grounds pass, which gives you similar access. The biggest problem of all with paying the big bucks for tickets to Armstrong is that since it's such a dated facility, the access is tough with large crowds, and the legroom at the seats is very difficult with long legs. It's all about preference and which court your favorites are playing on during each session. Food and beverage prices inside the grounds of the tournament reflect those of similar products in NYC, very high. Depending on how long you plan to spend at the tournament each day may impact which meals you plan to eat in advance. However, the tournament offers excellent cuisine, I recommend giving it a try. Similarly to everything else, the souvenirs are very pricey. Having said that, the selection of retail outlets within the grounds is unbelievable. In addition to the official tournament souvenir booths, there are at least 30 more individual vendors scattered about. It all depends on what you're looking for and what you're willing to spend, you'll find more than you can afford for sure! Bottom line here: if you plan to spend a few days at the tournament, budget your funds wisely, and be sure to spend at least one session in Ashe, you won't regret it. Extras 5 Unlike similar Grand Slam events, tickets are fairly easy to obtain in advance through multiple outlets online and at the ticket office. The Smash Zone presented by the USTA is an air-conditioned indoor facility designed specifically to promote tennis and entertainment to kids of all ages. The facility includes a half court, table tennis, photo opportunities, tennis video games, and contests and giveaways of all sorts. The inner-kid is sure to come out in anyone upon entering this wonderful area. The Court of Champions and Avenue of Aces are the two phenomenal main entryways in which you have the opportunity to observe as you enter and exit the park. Each celebrates examples of the deep history that this tournament has to offer. It's worth spending a few minutes to learn a thing or two. In addition to the food village there are numerous shaded courtside patios where one can enjoy a cold cocktail and some tennis. These make for a very unique tennis experience, unlike any other. Final Thoughts Whether you're a tennis enthusiast, a club player, or you can only name a few of the top players, you will get goose bumps and gain an even higher appreciation for the sport after attending a match in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Overall, the US Open is a spectacular event and a definite addition to your bucket list.

Photo Courtesy of SMCGaels.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Louis Guisto Field 1928 Saint Mary’s Rd Moraga, CA 94556 Saint Mary’s Gaels website Louis Guisto Field website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 1,500 Baseball In Basketball Country When Saint Mary’s College moved their baseball stadium 400 feet down the right field line from their old stadium, they had big plans. These plans have been slow to materialize but one can definitely see progress. The new Louis Guisto Field is a facility under transition and part of the greater Athletics and Recreation Corridor which will include a gym, swimming pool, locker rooms and additional seating at the baseball stadium. Though they set out to add a 1,500 seat grandstand at Louis Guisto Field after the 2012 season, that hasn’t occurred yet. It’s clear that while the field is in perfect shape, the bleachers are decades old and from the old field. The portable building press box is clearly not yet the “state of the art” one they will have when renovation is complete. Since my last trip in 2012 they have demolished the old Louis Guisto Field to make way for the rest of the Athletics and Recreation Corridor. You can see an artist rendering of the corridor as well as an outline of the new facilities here . You can see that the baseball stadium is at the center of it, with the softball field Cottrell Field beyond its left field wall. The Gaels hope that upgrading the stadium and facilities that go along with it will help propel the program to the top of the WCC. In their brief tenure at the new Louis Guisto Field they have struggled and have been at the bottom of the standings. Food & Beverage 1 One folding table is for concessions and one for condiments. Hot dogs, peanuts, and nachos are the fare. Bottled soda and water as well as coffee, hot chocolate and Gatorade are the drink options. Atmosphere 3 Though the bleacher seating is clearly decades old, the field and surrounding areas are beautiful. The field lies beneath a tree-covered hillside in the quiet town of Moraga. The ping of the bats is the only sounds other than PA system playing walk-up music and announcing the next hitter. Cottrell Field, home of the Gaels’ softball team is just beyond the left field wall. Since I got there early, I caught a few innings of the Saint Mary’s vs Utah Valley game on the softball field. There are 3 seating areas. 2 sets of bleachers separated by the press box and a picnic area down the right field line. All of the bleacher seats have the foul ball netting in sight while the picnic area does not. There is a new scoreboard in right-center field that has basic stats as well as a video board that displays pictures of Saint Mary’s players when they are up to bat. One major problem while sitting in the bleachers is that the new dugouts are in the way of whichever outfielder’s line you are on. The dugout structures seem rather tall and interfere with sightings. If you want to sit in the bleachers, I recommend getting as close behind the plate as possible to minimize the issues with the dugout. Neighborhood 3 It’s tough to judge this neighborhood. Benefits include the closeness to the more happening places in the Bay Area and the beauty of the surrounding community, complete with hiking trails. Drawbacks include a lack of a vibrant, bustling community to take advantage of on game day. The diamond is located on the Saint Mary’s campus in the town of Moraga. Moraga has a population of less than 20,000 and is a quiet, but beautiful place. Rolling hills and tall redwoods allow for beautiful day hikes in the area. Being located on campus, though scenic, is not conducive to grabbing food or drink prior to or after a Gaels baseball game, it’s quite the drive. Your best options are in downtown Moraga or Rheem Valley. Here you can find area favorite Loard’s Ice Cream, Italian restaurant Amaroma, and Asia Palace (mostly Chinese food). Moraga is a mostly sleepy community where you can enjoy being outside, cruising the farmer’s market or catching a movie. You won’t find a row of sports bars where you can catch a game on a big screen. There are many hiking trails within 20 miles of the Saint Mary’s campus that allow beautiful views of the entire San Francisco Bay. Fans 2 Saint Mary’s fans were relaxed for this Saturday afternoon matchup in early 2013. There were a few dozen of them along with about a few dozen LMU fans. It was nearly 50/50 Gaels/Lions fans. It seemed the vast majority of those in attendance were parents and other family members plus a few students. I would have liked to see more students at the game considering it is free for them to attend but I believe it may have also been during spring break when I attended. Access 2 As mentioned above, Moraga is somewhat secluded from the rest of the Bay Area. The nearest freeways (13 and 24) are more than 5 miles away, accessible only by winding roads, with one lane going each direction. During rush hours, the Caldecott Tunnel really backs up as the lanes go down from 4 lanes to two. This tunnel connects most of the Bay Area to Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, etc. You are usually safe on weekends however. For many Bay Area residents avoiding traffic can be solved by taking a BART train. Unfortunately the nearest station is 5 miles away, so it is not walkable. Riding a bicycle is an option from the train station and would be a nice ride through the rolling hills, but isn’t advisable as there aren’t many street lights from the station into town. Parking is free and plentiful on the weekend but there may be a fee during the week. The parking lot is along the right field line but there is an additional one across the street from the right field wall, next to the soccer/rugby fields. The two grandstands are mirror images of each other and equally accessible. To access the nearest restroom you need to leave the baseball field and walk directly behind home plate about 50 yards and enter that classroom building. Restrooms are on the right hand side, just inside the entrance. Return on Investment 3 I thought tickets were a tad expensive since they were the same rate ($10) as the nationally recognized basketball program. It should be noted that seniors and children are $7 and SMC students are free with valid I.D. It is nice that you can move around to find your favorite spot to sit. Food is inexpensive and with parking free on the weekends you could get by on just a $10, which is well worth the experience. Extras 1 There isn’t much in the way of extras at Louis Guisto Field. I did however appreciate that I was able to catch a softball game on the same day. The Gaels have retired Tom Candiotti’s #49 and that is displayed on the left-center field wall. Unfortunately there aren’t any notes about SMC history beyond that. Lastly, there was an equal amount of merchandise for visiting LMU as there was for Saint Mary’s. I’m not sure if these schools have a unique relationship or if that is consistent across the WCC. Final Thoughts Once the seating area matches the field of play in terms of quality, a trip to Louis Guisto will jump several points on the FANFARE scale.

Photos by Matt Fiedler and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium 450 Broad St Newark, NJ 07102 NJIT Highlanders website Year Opened: 1999 Year Demolished: 2019 Capacity: 6,200 Bears and Eagles (and Highlanders?) Riverfront Stadium Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium is the home of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) Highlanders. The stadium is located along the Passaic River in Newark, NJ. The stadium opened in 1999 and was the home of the Newark Bears from 1999-2013. The name of the stadium honors the Newark Bears of the International League, and the Newark Eagles of the Negro League. The Bears folded in 2013, but the remnants of the team are found throughout the stadium. Food & Beverage 0 There are concession stands at Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium, but they are not open for NJIT games. Fans may bring food or drinks into the park to enjoy. There are also many restaurants and bars in the area to purchase food. Atmosphere 2 This is a former minor league baseball park. Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium is not a normal college venue in that sense. There is a PA announcer who does a solid job of announcing the players, and there is music between innings. There is a great view no matter where you sit in the park. You can see the skyline of Manhattan in the distance. You can also see reminders of the former Newark Bears and Newark Eagles. There is a ring of honor that honors players that have come through like Yogi Berra and Walter Johnson. There are logos and images of the Newark Bears logo all around the ballpark. There are programs that you can pick up when you enter the ballpark. The programs include a roster as well as some season statistics. Neighborhood 2 Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium is located along the Passaic River in Newark. Newark is not the best place to be wandering around. The stadium is located near NJIT, as well as Rutgers-Newark and the Seton Hall University Law School. There are some places to eat that are close by. Public transportation is the best way of travel because it is not a great idea to be walking around Newark, especially if you don’t know your way around. There are also some hotels fairly close by, and the field is close to Newark Liberty International Airport. Fans 2 The announced attendance at the game I attended was 200, but seemed to be less than that. NJIT is not a major program, so you wouldn’t expect to have a large crowd. The crowd seemed to be mainly parents and relatives of the players. The crowd was relatively quiet throughout the game. There were some cheers, but it was mainly a quiet crowd. There were a few opposing fans as well at the game, and there were no issues. Access 5 Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium is very easy to access. The easiest way to get to the stadium is by using public transportation. If you take NJ Transit, you just get off at Newark Broad Street Station and the stadium is right there. It is a quick walk from the station to the stadium. If you are in Newark, you can take the light rail and get off at the Riverfront Stadium stop. You can park on the side street right near the stadium. Return on Investment 3 There is no charge to attend an NJIT baseball game at Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium. Other than the cost of travel, you won’t have to spend any money to attend an NJIT baseball game. You will see some solid baseball at Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium. NJIT squares off with teams like Rutgers, Hofstra, and Niagara, just to name a few. There is a good atmosphere, a terrific view, and plentiful dining options in the area. Extras 3 One star goes to the tremendous view of the skyline of Manhattan. You can see One World Trade Center as well as some other skyscrapers. A second star is awarded for the programs and information that NJIT provides to the fans. Also, there is a scoreboard that provides the standard information that fans expect. A final star is awarded for the heritage of Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium. The various images of the Newark Bears and Newark Eagles are a great thing to see. Names like Yogi Berra and Walter Johnson are in the Ring of Honor and it is great to see legends names associated with a ballpark. Final Thoughts NJIT is a college team playing in a former minor league ballpark. No matter how well the team does, the stadium will always look empty. The stadium is somewhat in disrepair, but the team does a good job in getting it in playing condition for games. The stadium has links to past baseball greats, and is a tribute to the rich tradition of baseball in Newark. If you find yourself in the area, it is worth a trip to see the NJIT Highlanders.