Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Eldredge Park 78 Eldredge Park Way Orleans, MA 02653 Orleans Firebirds website Eldredge Park website Year Opened: 1913 Capacity: 4,000 Filling the Hill for Over a Century Eldredge Park, in Orleans, MA, is the oldest ballpark in the Cape Cod League, and one of the oldest continuously used ballparks in the country. Featured in pictorials in Sports Illustrated and Baseball in America, it was named the best summer collegiate ballpark in the nation by Baseball America in 2004. Eldredge Park has been described as a “Norman Rockwell painting come to life”. The land for the park was donated to the town of Orleans by baseball enthusiast Louis Winslow "Win" Eldredge, “in consideration of [his] affection for and interest in the young people of Orleans and [his] desire to provide a playground for them.” The park quickly became a popular community gathering place. Thanks to the nearby transatlantic telegraph cable station, fans at Eldredge were among the first Americans to receive the news that Charles Lindbergh had touched down safely in Paris. Constructed in 1913, Eldredge Park is a most uniquely designed ballpark. There is virtually no permanent seating anywhere at the facility. Most of the seating here is located on a large, terraced hill, known as “The Hill at Eldredge Park”, which runs the length of the first base side of the field. Fans coming to watch the Firebirds play are encouraged to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs and pick out their favorite spots from which to watch the action. For much of their existence, Orleans’ team was known as the Cardinals. In 2009, several Cape League teams decided to cease sharing names with a Major League squads, and their name was changed to Firebirds. The team has won 4 Cape League championships in the Modern Era, which began in 1963, and is the only league franchise to boast two baseball Hall of Famers (Carlton Fisk and Frank Thomas) among their alumni. In 2022 42 Firebirds alumni played in the Major Leagues. Food & Beverage 3 Nauset Food Services operates a concession stand at Eldredge Park. The "Fire Pit" is located in the parking lot atop the right field berm. The menu here covers all the basics, including burgers, hot dogs and sausage and pepper sandwiches. Veggie burgers, nachos and pizza slices are also sold here. A good variety of snacks, featuring chips, candy, peanuts, popcorn, pretzels and ice cream novelties are also available. Fans looking for something a little extra can top their hot dog or burger with cheese, peppers and onion for an extra dollar. Coca Cola products are sold at the Fire Pit. Alcoholic beverages are not sold at Eldredge Park. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at a Firebirds game is very similar to what you will find in other Cape Cod League venues. The bells and whistles present in so many minor league ballparks today are nowhere to be found on the Cape. PA announcements are limited to upcoming batters, lineup changes, and sponsors advertisements. Children have room to play and chase foul balls. Families and locals mix, enjoying a laid-back night at the ballpark. It’s a baseball purist’s dream. Neighborhood 4 Orleans is a small town located on the “inner elbow” of Cape Cod. It has a population of just over 6,000 year-round residents, and swells to several times that size during the summer months. Eldredge Park is located next to Nauset Regional Middle School, about a mile from downtown Orleans. Fans looking to explore what Orleans has to offer should head north on Route 28 South (you read that right, don’t try and understand, it’s a Massachusetts thing) to where routes 28, 6, and 6A come together. There you will find numerous fine seafood restaurants and tourist attractions. If you wish to avoid the large summer crowds, come to the area early in the season in June before schools let out. Everything will be open, and the crowds will not have arrived yet. The area boasts several excellent beaches and seasonal tourist attractions. Many beautiful homes dating back to colonial times are present along the waterfront. The destination town of Provincetown is located a half hour to the north through the Cape Cod National Seashore. Fans 4 Orleans consistently ranks at or near the top of the Cape League’s attendance rankings, averaging about 1,500 fans per game. They have a dedicated fan base with some interesting traditions. Since virtually all of Eldredge Park’s seating is general admission lawn seating, fans are allowed to come to the ballpark early, in some cases VERY early, to leave their blankets or chairs on the ground and reserve their spots in advance. The fans then return at game time to the spot they chose hours earlier. One complaint that is heard at times is that some fans will reserve their spot early in the day, only to not show up until the game is well underway, thus depriving other deserving fans of a prime location. During the season’s prime dates in July and August, these spots can become very valuable indeed. Seeing Eldredge Park’s terraced hills filled with locals and tourists alike enjoying a game under the stars is a fantastic sight and gives Orleans a well-deserved reputation as one of the top ballparks in the league. Access 4 Eldredge Park is very easy to get to, located about a mile off of route 6. Simply take the exit for Route 6A, follow it to Eldredge Park Way, and the ballpark will be on your left. Adjacent to the ballpark is a skate park, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a playground. There is ample parking beyond the right field fence, and plenty of room for fans to spread out their lawn chairs and blankets. As mentioned earlier, most of the seating is in the form of lawn seating. The team has placed a new set of bleachers near home plate, and another new set of bleachers beyond the right field fence. While the many children attending the game scale the terraced berm like mountain goats, fans with an unsteady gait should be careful, as there are no paved paths anywhere at Eldredge Park. The field is located very close to Route 28, necessitating large nets to be placed around the infield to protect passing cars. The screens at Eldredge Park extend from home plate 180 feet down each baseline. They are an inconvenience to fans, to be sure, but they are a necessity here. The placement of the field so close to the road also means that there isn’t a whole lot of room for fans to sit on the third base line. The great majority of fans will choose seats on the roomier first base line. Fans wishing to not look through the nets will have to sit far down the baselines. With the presence of a busy road (Route 28) so close to the field, children who are chasing foul balls must be reminded to not chase the balls into the street, which the Firebirds do throughout the game. In addition, there are several signs present reminding fans of this important safety rule. Return on Investment 5 As is the case at all Cape League games, there is no charge for admission at Eldredge Park. The team welcomes donations from fans, and in return you will receive a yearbook and roster sheet. Parking is also free, and regular attendees at Firebirds games will bring their own cooler with drinks and snacks. It is entirely possible to see a game being played by several future major leaguers without paying a cent. For those fans purchasing food at the Fire Pit, concessions are reasonably priced. Extras 3 A recent addition to Eldredge Park is “The Catch,” a statue located on the top of the hill near home plate, which depicts a young fan stretching to catch one of the numerous foul balls that land in the area. The original configuration of Eldredge Park located home plate in what is today its left-field corner. After generations of batters struggled to hit against the visual backdrop of a setting sun, the orientation was changed in the mid-1960s. The newly reconfigured park opened for the 1967 CCBL all-star game. The hill was terraced in the mid-1980s, giving the park its current look. Final Thoughts Baseball has been played at Eldredge Park since 1913. As a member of the Firebirds' staff put it, "we have three things going for us in Orleans. We have the best beaches on the Cape, we have the hill, and we have the history." While many towns on the Cape will debate the merits of their own beaches against those in Orleans, there is no disputing the unique nature of the terraced hill at Eldredge Park. Being a part of a late summer crowd in Orleans alongside virtually the entire town is indeed a special experience. In the 2022 major league season 362 Cape Cod League alumni suited up in the major leagues. That's almost one out of every six players to play in the majors. Needless to say, some of the best amateur ball being played anywhere can be found in the small parks on Cape Cod. With all ten ballparks located within an hour's drive of each other, it's a baseball fan's dream come true. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 McKeon Park 120 High School Road Hyannis, MA 02601 Hyannis Harbor Hawks website McKeon Park website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 2,500 Harbor Hawks of Hyannis McKeon Park, named for longtime Barnstable School Committee member and athletic booster John McKeon, is located behind Saint John Paul II High School, within walking distance of both downtown Hyannis and Hyannis Harbor. In 2016 the field at McKeon Park was renamed “Judy Walden Scarafile Field” in honor of the longtime Cape Cod Baseball League president. The Harbor Hawks, originally named the Mets, decided in 2009 along with several other league teams to cease sharing names with Major League teams. The team chose the new moniker “Harbor Hawks” in honor of the Ospreys who nest atop the light towers at the ballpark. The Harbor Hawks/Mets have been a member of the Cape Cod League since 1976, and have won three championships, most recently in 1991. Notable alumni to have played in Hyannis include Jason Varitek, Buck Showalter, Albert Belle, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Robin Ventura. Food & Beverage 2 The Harbor Hawks operate a concession stand out of the rear of the press box building. It offers basic refreshments for hungry Hyannis fans. Quarter Pound Hot Dogs, pizza slices and nachos are the highlights of the menu. Of course, since we’re on Cape Cod, New England clam chowder is available as well. Fans looking for a quick snack will have many options. In addition to the typical pretzels, potato chips (Cape Cod brand chips, naturally), popcorn and sunflower seeds, an assortment of ice cream novelties are available. Coca-Cola products are featured at McKeon Park. No alcohol is sold here. Atmosphere 3 Fans who long for a game day experience like it used to be will certainly enjoy a Harbor Hawks game. Like all the Cape League parks, the game is the focus here. Absent are the shenanigans that have become routine throughout minor league baseball today. Distractions are kept to a minimum at McKeon Park. Although music is played between innings, it is kept at a reasonable volume. Batters come to the plate without musical accompaniment, greeted only by a subdued PA announcer. The Harbor Hawks do engage fans with a few promotions, including a t-shirt toss, 50/50 raffle with multiple prizes from local sponsors and occasional appearances by Ossie the Osprey, Hyannis’ mascot. Neighborhood 4 Even though downtown Hyannis and Hyannis Harbor are located just a couple of blocks from McKeon Field, they are not easily accessible from the ballpark. It is likely that if you are spending the day in Hyannis, you’ll have to bounce from area to area. Parking in the downtown area can be tough during peak tourist times. Hyannis is the commercial hub of Cape Cod. The area is filled with restaurants, lodging options and shops. If spending a day on the water is more your speed, head a block beyond the outfield wall, where Hyannis Harbor offers even more dining and entertainment options, including cruises of the coastline and ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Less than two miles from the ballpark are some of Cape Cod’s legendary beaches. History buffs will enjoy the nearby JFK Hyannis Museum, located about a half mile from McKeon Park, which commemorates the Camelot days of the Kennedy family, who spent their summers in Hyannisport. In addition, John Kennedy’s house is located just two miles from the ballpark. Also located in the JFK museum is the Cape Cod League Hall of Fame, a must-see attraction for any baseball fan visiting the area. Since one in six current major league players today played in the Cape League, it’s a distinct possibility that one of your favorite players may be enshrined here. Fans 5 Hyannis annually comes in near the top of the Cape League attendance rankings, averaging somewhere around 1,500 fans per game. For the 2021 season, the Harbor Hawks are attracting over 2,000 fans per game, ranking them second in the circuit behind Chatham. As is the case in all the Cape League ballparks, the crowds at McKeon Park start off slowly during June and pick up steam as the tourist season progresses over the course of the summer. A typical Hyannis crowd is a mix of families, locals and traveling baseball fans taking in some quality action in a most scenic area. Don’t come to a Harbor Hawks game expecting a rowdy crowd or to make a spectacle out of yourself, that type of behavior just doesn’t fly on the Cape. Fans here are baseball fans first and foremost. Outstanding plays by both teams are applauded and sportsmanship rules the day. It’s not unusual for a visiting fan to find themselves in the midst of an entire neighborhood of fans who have known each other for decades. By the end of the night, you’ll feel like a part of the neighborhood, too. Access 2 Downtown Hyannis can be a very difficult area to navigate, particularly during the height of tourist season. McKeon Park is located at the end of a dead-end street just two blocks from Main Street and a block from Hyannis Harbor. Parking is available in the St. John Paul High School lot, but space is limited. If you find a spot in the area, best to take it and walk. Driving is the preferred method to arrive at McKeon Park, as the Hyannis Transportation Center is almost a mile away and local busses do not access the ballpark. The biggest drawback to the game day experience at McKeon Park is the lack of restroom facilities. There are a couple of port-a-johns near the upper entrance to the park. Plans to build new accessible, permanent rest rooms have been in the works for several years now. Recent renovations totaling $700,000 have already provided a new scoreboard, drainage system and playing surface. Other scheduled improvements include new terraced seating, bleachers and landscaping. McKeon Park offers several different seating options in the form of bleachers scattered throughout the grounds. Some bleachers are metal, some are wooden. The largest set of bleachers are on the third base side of the field behind the Hyannis dugout, with a smaller set of bleachers on the first base side of the field. The “Osprey’s Nest,” a set of bleachers set up on top of the hill on the third base side, provides a unique vantagepoint. There is a small patio on the same hill for those fans requiring handicapped access. Beware to those with an unsteady gait: it can be difficult to get around McKeon Park, as there are no paved walkways anywhere on the facility, and some steep hills to navigate. Tread carefully. Stadium Journey recommends bringing your own lawn chair or blanket to Hyannis and taking advantage of the many spaces to spread out and take in the action from your own preferred spot. The large hill on the third base side can accommodate hundreds of fans. Be sure to get here early, as prime spots fill up quickly. Return on Investment 5 As is the case at all Cape League games, there is no charge for admission at McKeon Park. The team will accept a “suggested donation” of five dollars from fans, and in return you will receive a roster sheet. Parking is also free in the adjacent high school parking lot. Be warned that the small lot behind the left field stands is a private lot, and they practice an aggressive towing policy. Those great spots are, in fact, too good to be true. Regular attendees at Harbor Hawks games will bring their own cooler with drinks and snacks (just don’t bring in any alcohol). It is entirely possible to see a game being played by several future major leaguers without paying a cent. If you are purchasing food at a Harbor Hawks game, they are most reasonably priced. Extras 2 The location of the Cape League Museum and Hall of Fame just a couple of blocks from McKeon Field is worth an extra point. With so many graduates of the Cape League dotting Major League rosters, it’s a certainty that you will come across some of your favorite players during your visit. The renovations in progress at McKeon Park also merit an extra point. These long overdue changes, which have already resulted in a new scoreboard and playing surface, aim to improve the fan experience greatly, with improved seating options, easier access and most importantly, a permanent rest room. Final Thoughts The Cape League is considered by many to be the premier summer wood-bat league in the country. In 2020, over 300 Cape League alumni played in the Major Leagues. That accounts for more than one out of every six major leaguers. When taking in a game on the Cape, it’s guaranteed that you will be watching several future major leaguers-for free! If you are a baseball purist, the Cape Cod League is certainly a bucket list item. The quality of play on the diamond is high, the price is low, the fans are friendly and the atmosphere harkens back to a different time. The close proximity of the teams makes it possible to visit several, if not all, of the teams in about a week. McKeon Park has never been mentioned as one of the best ballparks on the Cape. That could change as renovations progress over the next few summers. With its location close to downtown Hyannis and Hyannis Harbor, not many ballparks can match this location. The family of ospreys that inhabit one of the light towers here may be on to something… Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Whitehouse Field 75 Oak St. Harwich, MA 02645 Harwich Mariners website Whitehouse Field website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 4,000 Baseball’s Original Mariners Located on the campus of Harwich High School is Whitehouse Field, home of the Harwich Mariners. The Mariners have played in the Cape Cod Baseball League since 1930, winning four league championships in the modern era of the Cape League, which began in 1963. Unlike the other teams in the Cape League who share a nickname with a major league club, the Mariners do not have to pay royalties to MLB, as they pre-date the Seattle Mariners. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand here running out of the bottom floor of the press box. Since this is Cape Cod, you can buy clam chowder here. Ballpark staples hot dogs and hamburgers also highlight the menu. The strength of the menu at Whitehouse Field are snack items. In addition to a wide variety of candy items, Mariner fans can purchase popcorn, sunflower seeds and freshly baked cookies. Novelty ice cream treats and assorted flavors of slushies are popular sellers. Also located near the entrance to Whitehouse Field is a souvenir stand selling a variety of Mariners’ t-shirts, sweats, and hats. Fans may be intrigued by the old-school Mariners trident logo featured on several items. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at Whitehouse Field will be a familiar one to veteran Cape League fans. The game being played on the field is the primary focus here. There is little in the way of extraneous bells and whistles to distract from the game at hand. You will not find any wacky between innings contests, goofy mascots, or blaring music in Harwich. The atmosphere is as it used to be, and any baseball purist will enjoy their time at Whitehouse Field. As is the case at most Cape League ballparks, watching the kids in attendance chase for foul balls is part of the fun. Whitehouse Field’s location in the middle of the woods ensures that there is more than enough room for kids to run safely to chase down these treasures. Neighborhood 3 Whitehouse Field is located next to Harwich High School in a residential area. There is little in the immediate area to attract visiting fans. Nearby is Harwich Center, which is listed on the National Historic Register due to its several architecturally significant buildings. A little further down the road is Route 28, the primary business thoroughfare in town and home to many restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. Cross Route 28 to find some of the Cape’s legendary beaches. Fans 4 Harwich annually ranks in the upper half of the Cape League attendance rankings, averaging around 1,300 fans per game. As is the case with all games on the Cape, crowds are much larger during the prime tourist months of July and August. If you wish to avoid the larger crowds, both in the ballpark and in the town, plan your visit earlier in the season, before the crush of tourists arrive. The fans in Harwich are similar to what you will find throughout the Cape, a good mix of locals and tourists. Mariner fans are knowledgeable and very enthusiastic about their team. There is a great neighborhood feel at Whitehouse Field, as fans meet up with neighbors, co-workers, and friends at the ballpark to catch up on all the local news. If you visit the area from out of town, you will be sure to have a few new friends yourself before you leave Whitehouse Field. Access 4 Whitehouse Field is easy to get to, located about a mile from Route 6 via exit 10. The ballpark is located a next to Harwich High School, a block away from Route 124. Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the high school, with overflow parking available in the community center parking lot across the street. After taking a short walk through the woods, fans will enter into Whitehouse Field. The press box and concession stand will be located directly in front of you, with the souvenir stand located off to the right. There will be a large set of bleachers located on either baseline. These bleachers consist wooden benches with plastic covers to protect fans from splinters. They are popular places to sit, so if you want a good seat, get here early. Also, some of the boards are getting creaky, so step carefully. There are several smaller sets of bleachers scattered around Whitehouse Field. These bleachers are made of aluminum, and are brightly colored. Each row is painted red, blue, or green. There is also room throughout the ballpark for fans to set up their own lawn chairs or blankets. There are areas around home plate, down the outfield lines, and beyond the outfield fence. A big drawback to the seating at Whitehouse Field is the fact that all seating is obstructed by fencing or netting. Even the upper levels of the bleachers are blocked. It can be difficult to see the game from certain areas. The team has recently built restroom facilities, which are located on the third base side of the field. The facilities are new, clean and a huge improvement over the old port-a-johns. Return on Investment 5 Admission to all Harwich Mariners games, as with all games in the Cape League, are free of charge. Parking is also free in the large lot at Harwich High School. If you do not arrive early enough to snag one of these spots, there is overflow parking available in the Community Center lot across the street from the high school. It’s a long walk, so getting to Whitehouse Field early is a must for many Mariner fans. Concessions are also very inexpensive, making a night at Whitehouse Field a very inexpensive entertainment option for families and visitors to the upper Cape. Extras 2 The Mariners hold a 50/50 raffle at each game with numerous prizes provided by local sponsors. In addition to the traditional cash prize, fans can take home coupons for ice cream, ferry rides, harbor tours, and gift cards from local shops and restaurants. More than one fan per night is guaranteed to go home lucky every night. Another extra point is awarded for the multi-colored bleachers and the old-school Mariners logo merchandise available at the souvenir stand. If you are so inclined, you can debate with your neighbors the merits of a red bench vs. a blue bench vs. a green bench. Final Thoughts Many baseball people consider the Cape Cod League to be the premier summer college league in the nation. One out of every seven players in the major leagues today played in the Cape Cod League. With all the teams in the league located within an hour’s drive of each other, a visitor to the Cape can fit in several games in a short period of time. With Boston and Fenway Park located just an hour from the Cape, it can make for an epic ballpark tour for any ballpark fanatic. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Stony Brook Field 384 Underpass Rd Brewster, MA 02631 Brewster Whitecaps website Stony Brook Field website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 4,000 Whitecaps on the Cape The Brewster Whitecaps are one of two expansion teams that joined the Cape Cod Baseball League in 1988. They originally played their home games at a field located at Cape Cod Regional Technical High School. There was one problem with this field-it was located in neighboring Harwich, not Brewster. The solution-build a field within town limits. The town of Brewster chose a site adjacent to the Stony Brook Elementary School, one of two elementary schools in the town, which serves students from kindergarten through second grade. The Whitecaps have won two championships during their time in the Cape League (2000, 2017). Famous Whitecaps alumni to play in the major leagues include Sean Casey, Chase Utley, Ryan Braun and Aaron Judge. Food & Beverage 3 Nauset Dining Services operates a concession stand at the top of the hill overlooking Stony Brook Field. For a small stand, there is a good variety of food available. In addition to the standard hot dogs and hamburgers, ballpark staples such as sausage and pepper sandwiches, pizza slices and nachos are sold. Items that you may not expect at a small stand, including veggie burgers and corn dogs, dot the menu. An impressive amount of candy, ice cream treats and gourmet popcorn round out the offerings. Thirsty Whitecap fans can select from cans of Coca-Cola products or bottles of Dunkin’ Donuts Iced Coffee. Alcohol is not sold at Stony Brook Field. For something different, try “The Closer,” a grilled donut stuffed with French vanilla ice cream and rolled in chocolate sprinkles. Atmosphere 3 The Cape league is well known for its old-timey, traditional game day experience. Even by Cape League standards, a game in Brewster is decidedly laid back. As is the case at all Cape Cod League ballparks, there is little going on at a Whitecaps game to distract from the action on the field. Much of the noise and distraction present at most minor league ballparks just isn’t found here. The PA is limited to upcoming batters, pitching changes and sponsor announcements. The Cape Cod League is a baseball purists’ dream. Stony Brook Field has a playground behind it, which makes perfect sense considering this is an elementary school. It gives kids who may be getting bored with the game somewhere to blow off steam. As with most Cape League games, a large part of the younger crowd spends their time chasing foul balls. If one lands near you, watch out for the oncoming horde. Neighborhood 3 Stony Brook Field is located next to the elementary school that shares its name. Within a mile is Route 6A, also known as Main Street. Along this road are several excellent clam shacks mixed in among some bed and breakfasts, antique shops and art galleries. Brewster is a small town with a population of under 10,000 year round residents known for its beaches, golf resorts and spas. During the summer the town’s population swells to about 20,000. The first water-powered grist and wool mill in the country was built here (on Stony Brook) in the late 17th century. Brewster is a laid back, quiet place to be, even in the summer. Fans 3 Brewster usually ranks in the middle of the pack among Cape Cod League games in terms of attendance, averaging in the range of 1,100 fans per game. Crowds are much smaller in June than during the peak tourist months of July and August, so if you are looking to avoid the large crowds, come early in the season. Fans at Whitecaps games mirror those elsewhere in the league with a mix of locals, families, and tourists. Fans who come to the games generally have some sort of connection with the team, as house parents, boosters, or volunteers, so they are very knowledgeable and passionate about the action taking place on the field. It makes for a very enjoyable atmosphere. Access 4 Stony Brook Field is located adjacent to the elementary school that shares its name. The school is close to route 6A, the main drag in Brewster. If coming to Brewster from off the Cape, you will follow route 6 to route 137, and follow to Underpass Road (or “Underpants Road,” as the Stony Brook students call it). The CERTA flex bus route travels up route 137, but it is a long walk to the ballpark. Driving is the preferred and most effective method for getting to Stony Brook Field. There is ample parking at Stony Brook School. Even though some spots are a decent walk away, the helpful Whitecaps staff will shuttle you from your car to the field. Stony Brook Field has a variety of seating areas. There are several sets of metal bleachers located on either baseline. If you are sitting in the infield, be prepared to look through fencing or netting. Beyond the dugouts are more bleachers down the left field line, as well as an area with benches and picnic tables down the right field line. The best thing about these seats is that the fencing does not extend all the way down the foul lines. If you choose to sit further down either foul line, you can sit right on the edge of the playing field and enjoy a totally unobstructed view. Many fans choose to bring their own lawn chairs to the games and sit on the hills located on either baseline. These seats offer a great view of the action, and some much-needed shade on a hot summer day. There are bathrooms located in the elementary school located atop the hill on the first base side. Return on Investment 5 As is the case with all Cape Cod League ballparks, there is no charge for admission at a Whitecaps game. The team asks for a “suggested donation” of three dollars in exchange for a program and roster. Parking is also free. Fans are able to bring in their own refreshments, making it possible to watch the highest level of collegiate baseball in the country without spending a single cent. If you choose to purchase food at the game, the prices are very affordable. Extras 2 The Brewster Whitecaps do not offer a whole lot of bells and whistles in their game day presentation. As is the case throughout the Cape League, the game is the focus here. The free program is a plus, as is the extensive 50/50 raffle which offers many prizes from sponsors in addition to the opportunity to take home half the money raised. Visiting Whitecaps alumni and families who travel to the Cape are recognized throughout the game, a nice touch that adds to the small-town, family atmosphere here at Brewster. Final Thoughts The Cape Cod League is considered by many to be the top collegiate summer league in the country. 307 Cape League alumni played in the major leagues in 2017, meaning one out of every six players in the bigs today played in this league. While the ballparks may not compare to the newer facilities that dot the landscape today, the atmosphere on the Cape is a wonderful experience reminiscent of the way things used to be. All the teams on the Cape are located within an hour of each other, making the Cape a ballpark chaser’s nirvana. Add into the mix that historic Fenway Park is located less than a 90 minutes drive from the most easterly team, and the potential is there for an epic road trip. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Doran Park 220 Sandwich Rd Bourne, MA 02532 Bourne Braves website Doran Park website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 3,000 Where Stars are Bourne The town of Bourne has a lengthy baseball history dating all the way back to the 1860’s. Several teams representing Bourne have competed in the Cape League throughout the 20th century. After a 16-year absence, the Braves were welcomed into the Cape League as an expansion team along with the Brewster Whitecaps. The name “Braves” was selected to honor the second major league baseball team to call nearby Boston home. The Bourne Braves play in the league’s newest park, Doran Park, which opened behind the Upper Cape Regional Technical High School in 2006. Before moving to Doran Park, the Braves played at various sites in Bourne, including The Massachusetts Maritime Academy and Coady Field. The field is dedicated to longtime Sagamore Beach resident and avid baseball fan George Doran Sr. Since joining the Cape League in 1988, the Braves have won one championship, in 2009. Some notable alumni to play in Bourne include Pete Alonso, Kevin Youkilis, Mark Mulder, Bill Mueller and Mitch Moreland. Food & Beverage 3 The Braves operate a snack bar out of a building on the third base side of Doran Park. The menu hits all the expected notes, with hot dogs, burgers and sausage sandwiches the main attractions. For the younger fans in attendance, Lunchables are sold. Items are cooked to order on a small gas grill next to the concession stand. Assorted snacks and ice cream treats are sold at the concession stand. Cans of Coca-Cola products are featured. Alcohol is not allowed at Doran Park. Atmosphere 3 For baseball fans used to the noise and commotion of your typical major or minor league baseball game, going to a came on Cape Cod will be a shock to the system. Gone are the between inning shenanigans, the annoying mascots and the non-stop distractions present at most ballparks. In the Cape League, the game is the focus. The only extraneous noise you’ll hear at a Braves game are the occasional lineup and sponsor announcements. Any noise at Doran Park is generated entirely by the fans in attendance. Neighborhood 3 Doran Park is located behind the Upper Cape Regional Technical High School in Bourne on the eastern shore of the Cape Cod Canal. The campus has a very large footprint in a very highly traveled area. There are no places of interest directly adjacent to Doran Park. However, this is Cape Cod, and there are places of interest not too far from the ballpark. If you cross back over the Cape Cod Canal via the Bourne Bridge, you’ll find yourself in the village of Buzzards Bay. Located here are campgrounds, trails, and a bustling downtown scene. You can find some incredible seafood in the many restaurants and clam shacks in the area. Buzzards Bay Brewery has a tap room here that is worth a visit from craft beer fans. A little further down the road is Onset Point, which offers the quintessential Cape Cod experience on the Massachusetts mainland. Just north of the ballpark is the village of Sandwich offers more fantastic seafood, ice cream and sandy beaches. Just be warned that the traffic in this area can be intense, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get around town, especially if you need to travel over either of the bridges that span the canal. Fans 3 Bourne typically ranks near the bottom of the Cape Cod League attendance rankings, averaging around 1,000 fans per game. Fans here are typical of those you would find elsewhere on the Cape, with a mix of locals and tourists taking in the action. As with other ballparks in this league, crowds grow as the season wears on into the meat of the tourist season. If you wish to avoid the larger crowds, get to a game in June, before school lets out and the heavy tourist season begins. One thing to know about Cape League fans: while they are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, they are hardly cutthroat. The typical Cape League fan is laid back and interested in watching some of the highest quality summer ball in the nation. Great plays by both teams are met with appreciation and applause. Sportsmanship rules the roost on the Cape. Access 3 Aside from the ever-present summer traffic getting onto the Cape, is very simple to arrive at Doran Park. The ball field is located behind Upper Cape Regional Technical High School, located just over the Cape Cod Canal. No matter which bridge you pass over to access the Cape, Doran Park is just a couple of miles away. Parking is available in a large lot a short walk from the field. The landscape around Doran Park has undergone some changes in recent years. Most fans will sit on the third base (home) side of the park contains a beautifully landscaped and terraced berm along the infield for fans to spread out their blankets or lawn chairs. The snack bar and rest rooms are located in the building located beyond the dugout, and there is a set of bleachers beyond the infield for people who did not bring their own seating. The press box, located behind home plate, contains an indoor team store, which contains a selection of Braves’ clothing and merchandise. Atop the hill behind home plate are several new buildings and terraces. The first base (visitors) side of the field still has an unfinished feel to it. There is no grass here, and the ground is covered in dirt or wood chips. There is a set of bleachers here for fans to use, but little room for fans wishing to set up shop at field level. The large pile of dirt and presence of heavy machinery on this side of the field hint that construction is not yet complete here at Doran Park. One issue fans will have with Doran Park is the fact that there are few unobstructed seats here. There is a great deal of netting that runs down both baselines. The dugouts, with their sloping roofs, block more views, and the snack bar takes up some prime real estate on the third base line. For unobstructed views, fans will need to sit far down the baselines, beyond the dugouts and snack bar. When there are large crowds at Doran Park, fans will spread out all around the ballpark. Since there are no paved walkways here, to reach the far side of the field or the team store, fans will have to weave through the crowds and terraces to reach their desired spot. Treat carefully, as the ground is uneven in many spots. Return on Investment 5 As is the case with all Cape Cod League games, there is no charge for admission at Doran Park. The team will accept a donation for admission in exchange for roster sheets and a Cape League Magazine. Free parking is also available in the large lot at the high school. Seasoned fans will bring their own refreshments, making it possible to take in the action featuring some of the best collegiate players in the country without spending any money. Even if you purchase refreshments, the prices are very reasonable. Extras 2 There aren’t a whole lot of extras when attending a game at Doran Park, just as at most Cape League ballparks. The team does give out a roster sheet and a stat sheet to any fans requesting them, and the 50/50 raffle features several prizes, so many fans go home winners. An interesting fact about this field is that much of the work done in building the ballpark, from construction to electrical work to wiring, was done by students. It seems fitting since Doran Park is located at a technical high school. Final Thoughts The Cape Cod League is considered by many to be the premier summer collegiate league in the nation. One out of six major league players today played in this league. The ballparks here may lack the fancy amenities that today’s minor league parks possess, but that doesn’t make them any less appealing. All the teams in the Cape League are located within an hour’s drive of each other, making Cape Cod a dream destination for any ballpark enthusiast. Just be sure to sit on the third base side of the field. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Jay Wagner, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Monongalia County Ballpark 2040 Gyorko Dr Granville, WV 26534 West Virginia Black Bears website Monongalia County Ballpark website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 3,500 Almost Heaven Granville, West Virginia is a town few may have heard of. After all, the entire land area of Granville is just 1.3 square miles. But in 2015, the 781-resident area got a sparkling 3,500-seat ballpark to call its own. The Jamestown Jammers of the New York-Penn League announced relocation to the Morgantown Metropolitan Area in 2014, and WVU’s baseball club had needed a new ballpark for years to replace aging Hawley Field. After years of planning, construction on West Virginia’s new baseball facility began in 2013. Two years later, Mon County Ballpark saw its first hardball action with a Mountaineer win over Butler on April 10th, 2015. The park’s opening was delayed by nearly two months due to an onslaught of inclement weather during the final stages of construction. The Jammers’ new branding was announced as the West Virginia Black Bears, and the new minor league team moved in with WVU at Monongalia County Ballpark in the summer of 2015. Since its inaugural season, the ballpark has been hailed as one of the greatest for both NCAA and MiLB. West Virginia’s attendance has skyrocketed to the top 40 in Division 1, and various stadium review websites have praised it as the “best short-season ballpark in the minors.” Food & Beverage 4 Monongalia County Ballpark offers several concession items that are unique to the Mountain State. Pepperoni rolls are Morgantown’s favorite food, and they are served at all standard concession stands for $5. The more basic items are priced on the higher side of the average, but only slightly. A chicken tender basket is $9, a pretzel costs $4.50, and regular and souvenir Coca-Cola sodas are priced at $5 and $6, respectively. Various beer vendors are clustered down the first baseline, and wine is also available at most concession stands. Because of the wide-open concourse, there is minimal wait time in the lines. Atmosphere 3 Monongalia County Ballpark’s seating bowl is just one level, with chair-back grandstand seats covered by the overhang. The blue seats extend around both dugouts. A grassy hill is located down both the right and left field lines, and when not closed due to rainy weather, is a great seating option for families. If you are looking for more unique seating options, a party deck and home run porch overlook the Black Bears bullpen near the right field foul pole. One of the more unique seating options in all of minor league baseball is the “Back Yard” in the right-center field. The outfield fence transitions to a chain link fence for a short portion, and behind it is an outdoor lounge area that is accessible to all fans. The Back Yard is complete with lengthy couches to watch the game from in comfort, as well as tables and chairs covered by large umbrellas. As for in-game entertainment, it’s about what’s to be expected from minor-league baseball. None of the between-inning contests are overly innovative, but there is still a focus on fun for the entire family at Black Bears games. Perhaps the greatest element of the game day experience in Granville is Mother Nature. The stunning backdrop features majestic mountains through the light smoky fog in all directions. Many university landmarks can be seen from Mon County Ballpark, such as WVU Coliseum. Neighborhood 3 The population of Granville was measured at 781 in the 2010 census. However, the town now has an estimated population of over 2,500. Although it’s still a tiny town, that large of an increase in under a decade is remarkable. It’s safe to say that Monongalia County Ballpark was a key player in Granville’s relatively rapid growth. University Town Center is the name of the neighborhood which has been built around the ballpark, and it’s got plenty of great chain restaurants, such as Olive Garden. Buffalo Wild Wings is visible from the ballpark, which is always a good pregame spot for sports fans. The very closest building to Mon County is the new Courtyard by Marriott Morgantown, which is an ideal option for lodging. Right across the Monongahela River in Morgantown, home to the beautiful campus of WVU. If you enjoy outdoor excursions, you cannot miss this opportunity to explore Wild and Wonderful West Virginia while you’re here! Among the most notable scenic spots is Dorsey’s Knob Park. The 70-acre park has several hiking trails, and Sky Rock at the very top gives you a breathtaking look at the city of Morgantown. Fans 3 The opening of Monongalia County Ballpark exponentially increased enthusiasm about the dormant West Virginia University program. Fans flocked to the new ballpark across the Monongahela River from Morgantown, averaging a turnout of over 1,800 for Mountaineer home games. The Black Bears have done very well themselves in terms of fan excitement, as the new ballpark has facilitated the development of its neighborhood, University Town Center. Although games are generally not packed with fans, the fans of the hometown West Virginia Black Bears in attendance remain responsive throughout the ballgame. The Black Bears ranked third-to-last in 2019 attendance for the New York-Penn League, averaging 1,699 fans per game. However, Monongalia County Ballpark is one of the smallest in the league, making the average Black Bears game a 68% capacity crowd – almost the same as the attendance leader of the NYP League, the Brooklyn Cyclones. Access 5 Because Monongalia County Ballpark facilitated the growth of its neighborhood, all nearby construction was done with fan access in mind. The venue is located directly off Interstate-79. After exiting toward Granville, University Town Center Drive takes you to the ballpark in less than a mile. Two main parking lots are servicing Mon County Ballpark, and both are priced at $5. Lot 1 sits across Gyorko Drive beyond the center field. Lot 2, which is even closer to the gates, is located just beyond the team clubhouses in the right field. Overflow parking is available right around the corner at Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the WVU Hospital. You may enter at the ballpark at the gates from either the left or right field. Concourses are extremely wide, and the field remains visible from the walkway. The bathrooms are plentiful, spacious, and clean. Please be advised that the ballpark implemented a clear bag policy in 2017. This means that all bags must be no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”, and must be transparent. Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are the only exception to the clear bag policy. Return on Investment 4 As is the case with the food and beverage rates, the ticket prices lean to the more expensive side of neutral, but only slightly. Tickets are priced at $12.50 for premium grandstand seating behind the plate, $10.50 for reserved seating behind the dugouts, and $8.50 for standing room only. Parking rates, however, present a great value – a $5 investment will set you up for a two-minute walk to the gates. Any further analysis of return on investment seems like splitting hairs. Even if a ticket, hot dog, and parking at Monongalia County Ballpark cost $3 more than the average minor league park, does that make it any less affordable for anyone? Probably not. Extras 2 2018-19 Bob Sheppard P.A. Announcer of the Year, Bill Nevin, is the voice of Monongalia County Ballpark. Nevin is also the public address announcer for WVU football, men’s basketball, baseball, rifle, and marching band as well as the Black Bears, Nevin’s baritone voice can seemingly be heard from miles away, and his professionalism adds a layer to the fan experience in Granville. Also, the Black Bears go the extra mile to display their affiliation with their parent club, the nearby Pittsburgh Pirates. On-screen graphics routinely show the two team’s logos side by side, and there is a sign inside the park that reads, “The Bucs Start Here.” Pittsburgh and Morgantown are separated by just 75 miles, and the Black Bears’ pride in their affiliation aids in creating a sense of pride with the fan base, since so many baseball fans in West Virginia already root for the Pirates. Final Thoughts Sporting venues today often become an either/or situation – either a stadium is new and luxurious, or it has character. The construction of Monongalia County Ballpark proved that doesn’t always have to be the case. In addition to being as gorgeous as any, the ballpark finds a way to nestle itself perfectly into the iconic setting of West Virginia. With the Monongahela River, mountain ranges, and WVU as the backdrop for this pristine facility, it doesn’t get any more Wild and Wonderful than Monongalia County Ballpark.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Trenton Thunder Ballpark One Thunder Rd Trenton, NJ 08611 Trenton Thunder website Trenton Thunder Ballpark website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 6,150 Trenton Makes The Fans Take Since our last visits, a lot has changed in Trenton, New Jersey. For starters, the team and the rest of the minor league baseball world shut down for the 2020 season due to a worldwide pandemic. Then the Thunder's parent club New York Yankees switched affiliates to nearby Somerset, a move that was met with vehement objection from Trenton management. Major League Baseball cut off 42 teams to improve player development. The club opted to join the newly formed MLB Draft League instead of the independent Atlantic League. When it returned in the summer of 2021, it shared its ballpark with the displaced AAA Buffalo Bison and pushed the summer collegiate to the campus of Rider Univesity's Sonny Pittaro Field. When Trenton Thunder Ballpark (originally Waterfront Park) debuted in 1994, it ushered in an epoch of minor league ballparks in the state of New Jersey. The home of the Double-A Eastern League Trenton Thunder is a jewel of a facility that revived excitement back to the capital city and proved that the state was capable of hosting minor league baseball – its last venture was the Jersey City As playing in decrepit Roosevelt Stadium in 1978. Within seven years there would be seven more minor league stadiums constructed within the 8,729 square miles of the country’s most densely populated state. The saturation of other minor league ballparks has not diminished the crowds at the 6,150-seat stadium located next to the Delaware River. The Thunder continuously draws well. The $16.2 million structure set the standard for aesthetics and construction. Two other ballparks in the state, TD Bank Ballpark in Somerset and the now vacant Campbell’s Field in Camden share similar designs to Trenton Thunder Ballpark. Food & Beverage 5 The main concession stands Thunder Road and River Ave. Food Court showcase traditional ballpark fare of hot dogs, burgers, nachos, and peanuts; however, there are also grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie dogs, corn dogs, fries served in a helmet, and pierogies. Deep-fried ice cream, Oreo churro bites, ice cream, water ice, and gelato are a few of the dessert selections at the park. Down the first base side is Fitch’s Place, a portable stand offering hoagies and barbecue favorites including pulled pork meatballs, pulled chicken, and pizza slices. On the opposite side is the Waterfront Grille offering grilled sausages, brats, cheesesteaks, and pork roll sandwiches. and Chickie’s & Pete’s crab fries – French fries sprinkled with Old Bay seasoning. The Case’s Pork Roll Paradise stand is also very popular and a must-try for any out-of-towners to the ballpark. Pork roll is a regional delicacy invented in Trenton and traditionally served on a bun with egg and cheese; however, the Thunder offer some insane combinations that include the Thunderdog (a hot dog wrapped in pork roll and cheese) and the Pig Pen (mashed potatoes with pork roll, pulled pork, and crumbled bacon). My suggestion is to go traditional and get the Oink, Egg, and Cheese. As soon as you walk up the staircase of the main entrance Killarney’s on the Delaware bar offers cans and drafts of premium and domestic beers. The prices are not too bad as 16-ounce beers are $6.25 and 32-ounce beers are $9.50 – and that is for both local and domestic brands. Tuesday nights feature $2 Rolling Rock drafts. On the healthier side is the Horizon Healthy Plate section offering gluten-free items, salads, turkey burgers, and portobello mushroom sandwiches. This is not your normal ballpark food, but there will be plenty of patrons who appreciate being able to enjoy a baseball game and eat healthy at the same time. Atmosphere 4 Attending a game is still quite fun and there have been vast improvements to the park to enhance a visit that includes a modern 21 x 68-inch high-definition video board in right field, cup holders on every seat, and an expanded picnic area. However, the main entrance to the stadium remains the same – a simply elegant design featuring a brick exterior and green canopy. There are photos above the suites on the interior showcasing former New York Yankees Derek Jeter and Andy Petitte when they played during rehab assignments along with current stars Gary Sanchez and Brett Gardner. Also included is the sign “Welcome to Thunder Country,” a definite nice splash to make the ballpark stand out among other similar facilities across the state. Boomer and Cloudman are the club’s two mascots who are seen throughout the game. Boomer is based on the team’s original logo, while Strike is a thunderbolt. Both are very active and enjoyed by many kids in attendance. If you want to grab some merchandise, the team has a store located near the entrance, plus a few extra tables selling discounted items. There are many fantastic bargains with some great t-shirts selling for as low as $10. There is a children’s play area down the right field line. Also in this area is the Delaware River which may go unnoticed by many in attendance. It is sort of hidden behind the first base side of the facility. The team features bat dog Rookie who is the third generation of bat dogs for the team that began with his grandfather “Chase” in 2000. Neighborhood 2 The capital city of New Jersey has both its good and bad parts, and the area of the stadium is one of the nicer parts. Directly next to the stadium is Rho Restaurant, which also acts as a nightclub as the evening moves along. Rozmaryn Restaurant, Amici Milano, and the Shrimp Boat Restaurant are three local favorites in the city. The New Jersey State Museum offers rotating exhibits throughout the year. Across the river and a few miles away is the town of Yardley, Pennsylvania. The small downtown offers a couple of nice places: Vault Brewing Company and the Yardley Inn. Located in an old bank, the restaurant showcases many of the building’s original banking features like vaults, receipts, teller windows, and thick doors. Fans 4 They love their baseball in Trenton, as the team has been one of the better draws in the Eastern League. The average attendance has exceeded over 5,000 fans over the last decade and has been the lone successful professional sports entity in a city where hockey, basketball, and indoor football have failed on several occasions. This is the highest level of baseball in the state and the Thunder faithful not only value watching the game but enjoy watching future Yankees and the atmosphere at the ballpark. Access 3 ARM & HAMMER Park sits along the Delaware River in downtown Trenton. It is not complicated to get to, and there are various signs directing motorists from US-1 and Route 129, I-195, and from the NJ Turnpike, Route 295 and 29. The parking is $5 in multiple lots around the stadium and is well-lit and marked. Inside the stadium, the stands are split by a middle concourse, while the main concourse offers a multitude of both fixed and movable concession stands. The bathrooms are clean, easily accessible, and comfortable. Return on Investment 4 The Thunder offers $12 tickets in advance for both the 100 and 200-level seating sections; however, the price increases to $13 the day of the game. Kids ages 4-12 and seniors 60 years and up get in for a dollar less, while anyone with the military pay $8 for their tickets. Fans are not allowed to bring in any food to the game, but concession prices and promo nights keep prices low (dollar hot dog night, kids eat free nights, and Thirsty Thursdays). Extras 4 One extra point for the updated and diverse choice of food inside the ballpark. The team does not rest on its laurels and looks for ways to improve the game day experience. There is a lot to choose from and the team offers nice menu graphics for its locations at the park. Another point for the golden retriever bat dog that is now in its third generation of dogs who help out during the game. Another point for the Thunder becoming the Trenton Pork Roll on Friday nights. The promo is complete with merchandise and pork roll sandwiches for a buck at the concession stand. A final extra point for the amount of affordable team gear on various tables inside the main concourse. It is hard not to pick up an inexpensive souvenir during your visit. Final Thoughts The Trenton Thunder have played baseball for over 25 seasons in New Jersey. It seems like only yesterday that the team arrived and spearheaded a movement toward ballpark construction in the state. However, the ballpark still stands out as a beauty and provides a highly enjoyable baseball experience. The stadium is kept up well, offers diverse menu items, and provides a sound environment to make the place pop.

Photos by Jared Goodman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Eastwood Field 111 Eastwood Mall Blvd Niles, OH 44446 Mahoning Valley Scrappers website Eastwood Field website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 6,000 Baseball at the Mall The Mahoning Valley Scrappers, class-A short-season affiliate of the nearby Cleveland Indians, play their home games at Eastwood Field. This NY-Penn League venue is located in the parking lot of the eponymous Eastwood Mall, making it perhaps the only professional baseball stadium located on the property of a shopping mall. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions available during Scrappers games are surprisingly unique and interesting. Both Chick-fil-A and the locally famous Quaker Stake are among the offerings, in addition to the traditional ballpark food. From burgers to hot dogs to soda, everything is pretty reasonably priced. The lines never get too long, so service is typically quick and easy. Pepsi is the primary soft drink available and a wide variety of craft beers are also on tap. Atmosphere 3 Like most other minor league clubs today, the Scrappers have put on-field games, outrageous promotions, and a wacky mascot at the front and center of game-day entertainment. Nothing is too over-the-top, however, and baseball still appears to be the number one focus. One negative thing about the experience at Eastwood is the radio broadcast by the color commentator that is constantly streamed over the stadium’s speakers throughout the game. The never-ending noise is distracting and only takes away from the game day experience. Quiet moments where the only sounds are the crack of the bat, the pop of the mitt, and the chirp of the cicadas are much needed; unfortunately, there is never a quiet moment in Mahoning Valley. Neighborhood 2 While there’s nothing wrong with the environs around the Eastwood Mall Complex, there is also nothing special or noteworthy about the area. The Mall itself is massive and contains tons of retail stores, hotels, and chain restaurants. These are all great for locals and visitors alike, but the lack of charm and uniqueness is a little disappointing. The nearest town to the ballpark is Niles, a charming little community with an impressive downtown monument to native son William McKinley. The Scrappers are part of the tight-knit Indians minor league circuit, which includes nearby Lake County and Akron. Triple-A Columbus also plays about 3 hours away. Cleveland’s Progressive Field is approximately an hour to the northwest, while Pittsburgh’s PNC Park is about 90 minutes down the road. The Mahoning Valley area is accessible by several interstates, including I-80, I-76, I-79, and I-77. Be aware that some of these roads and their spurs are sometimes toll roads. Fans 3 The crowd at Eastwood Field isn’t exactly die-hard, but they do get loud when the Scrappers get hot. That is if there’s even much of a crowd at all. Weekends, holidays, and non-school nights are usually busy at the ballpark; outside of those times, the seating bowl looks very sparse. Thankfully the Scrappers are a short-season team, so the attendance figures aren’t skewed by low turnouts in the colder periods of April and early May. Access 3 Eastwood Field has one of the most unique parking situations in all of baseball, and not in a good way. Although the park is located in the mammoth parking lot of the Eastwood Mall, the team has fenced off part of the asphalt for their use. Fans arriving by car are charged $3 to use this lot, while fans arriving using other methods of transport (including their own two feet) are charged $3 at the time of this writing. This seems very unnecessary – ultimately, no matter how you arrive at the ballpark, you will be charged to use your game ticket. The venue itself is very spacious and never really gets so crowded that it’s hard to move around. From the concourse, one can only see the field of play from behind home plate since there are no other gaps or tunnels to the seating bowl. There’s one main gate and re-entry is allowed. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are priced reasonably, anywhere from $8-$13. The concessions offered are also affordable, but the mandatory $3 parking/walking fee decimates Eastwood Field’s score here. For a family of four, a night out at the ballpark could run anywhere between $75-$100. Extras 1 Ultimately, there is simply not enough substance at the ballpark to warrant many points. Final Thoughts Eastwood Field is about as middle-of-the-road as you can get. Everything in the Mahoning Valley is just about average. While there are a few bad things about the venue, as a whole there are enough good things to provide some balance. All that being said, don’t come expecting the unexpected.

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

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 William Hammond Stadium 14100 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy Fort Myers, FL 33912 Minnesota Twins Spring Training website William Hammond Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 9,300 A Twins Peek at Hammond Stadium Hammond Stadium has been the Minnesota Twins spring training home since 1991. It is located at the Lee County Sports Complex in Ft. Myers. The complex has five practice fields adjacent to Hammond Stadium, as the Twins spring training facility is attached to the stadium. The ballpark went through renovations in 2014-2015 and now seats 8,730. It is named for Bill Hammond, a former county commissioner who played a key role in getting the stadium built. Food & Beverage 5 Hammond Stadium offers a good variety of food and drinks through its concessions program. It is made up of baseball standards and a number of foods that are unique to the palate of Twins fans. There are six concession stands serving Hammond Stadium, along with several portable carts. In addition to the concession stands, there is a beer garden at aisle 132 with a bevy of top brews as well as a broad selection of craft beers. Baseball standards available at Hammond Stadium include hot dogs, burgers, pretzels, nachos, pizza, and grilled chicken sandwiches. Drinks include bottled water, Pepsi brand sodas, and beer. The Nawty Hogg BBQ stand carries BBQ ribs, brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, BBQ chicken and a delicious BBQ sundae. Taco Bar and Grill offers beef and chicken tacos, and quesadillas ($8 - $9.25). The Lee County Grill serves up brats, chicken tenders, and corn dogs ($6.75 - $8.25). The Taste of Twins stand offers a menu specially designed to meet the needs of Minnesotans. It serves cheese curds ($7.25), pancake bacon burgers ($8.25), poutine ($10), and Killebrew root beer ($5.75). You can wash all that down with a Leinenkugel beer or a beer shake ($10) in several different flavors. Atmosphere 5 A day at a Twins spring training game is very enjoyable. You will notice this from the moment you arrive at a game. The parking lot is very convenient to the stadium, which features a Grand Floridian exterior, steeples and a large fountain in front of it. The grounds feature a set of palm trees, which frame your view of the ballpark as you depart the parking area. It makes for a wonderful photo of your visit. Once in the stadium, you’ll immediately see the large opening in the stadium concourse, which gives you an excellent view of the playing field. The concourse is filled with a variety of concession stands offering stadium staples and Minnesota specialties. It is hard to go wrong in your choice of seating, as all seats feature a great view of the action on the field. Most seats are on the 100 level of the stadium, but even the 200 level and the Terrace levels offer excellent viewing areas. There are a number of price levels and viewing areas for fans to choose from. Some of the most economical seats are in the outfield. These would include the berms in deep left field or the lawn seats near the first baseline. Many people like to socialize as much as watch the game, and they purchase the drink rail seats, which allow them to move around to different locations during the game. Hammond Stadium Berm Seating, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 We need to mention one thing before we talk about the area that Hammond Stadium is in. Hurricane Ian caused a massive amount of damage to the Ft. Myers area. Please call ahead to any restaurant or attraction in the area to make sure it is open. The locations mentioned in this section are open in spring 2023. The Boston Red Sox play their games at JetBlue Park, which is only six miles from Hammond Park. This is both a blessing and a curse. It is nice to have another Spring Training facility so close if you are trying to get in as many Grapefruit ballparks as you can during your visit. However, if the Twins and the Red Sox are both playing games at the same time traffic can be a nightmare. Allow plenty of lead time to get to the park. There is plenty to do in and around the park before and after a game. Both Thomas Edison and Henry Ford had winter homes in Ft. Myers. Their estate lines a beautiful river, and their homes are open to the public. They are well worth a visit, both for the beautiful homes and grounds, but also for a look at the inventions they both created, in addition to the cars and the light bulb they both are better known for. Sports fans will want to check out Fat Katz Sports Bistro for some great food before or after the game. The Fairfield Inn on Cypress Terrace is the closest hotel to Hammond Stadium and provides easy access to many of the other activities around Ft. Myers. Fans 5 The Minnesota Twins fan base is very loyal to the team, and you will see tons of Minnesota license plates in the parking lots at Hammond Stadium. This is partially loyalty to the team, and partially due to the desire to escape the bitter cold that Minnesota experiences in March. The Twins fans are well educated about baseball and the Twins history and can answer any trivia you ask about the team. The team’s payroll tends to bring in the big free agents, but the Twins have been able to make the playoffs on a frequent basis in the last few years. Another component of the crowds at Hammond Park are the ballpark chasers. These fans are intent on seeing games at as many ballparks as they can. Hammond Stadium is only 6 miles from the Red Sox spring training stadium, and the Braves and the Tigers facilities are also close by. Ft. Myers is a popular retirement location for many. Since the Twins have trained in the city for more than 30 years, many of the locals have adopted the team as their own. They often form the season ticket base for the team. Access 4 Getting to Hammond Stadium is easy to get to if driving from I-75. The parking lots at Hammond Stadium are in front of the stadium. Each lane for parking is named for a great player of the past for the Twins. Remember this name when you depart the stadium to find your car’s location more easily. Bicycle racks are available for locals. There are three entry gates at Hammond Stadium. Stadium gates open 90 minutes prior to the first pitch. Once inside the stadium, you will find the concourse to be very wide and easy to navigate. Signage at Hammond is excellent, and you should have no problem finding your seat. A concrete boardwalk encircles the stadium allowing 360 degree access for fans. The closest airport for those flying into Ft. Myers is Fort Meyers/Southwest Florida International Airport. It is serviced by all the major carriers. However flights into Ft. Myers tend to be more expensive than other Florida airports. Tampa International Airport is within 100 miles of the ballpark and it is a much more affordlable alternative to consider. Return on Investment 4 We found the price of attending a Twins game at Hammond Stadium to be lower than most Grapefruit League stadiums, as the ticket prices, concessions and parking are more affordable for families. All purchases at Hammond Stadium are credit card only. Hammond Stadium has a wide variety of seats available at many price points. The range runs from as low as $12 and as high as $32. We urge you to buy your seats in advance, rather than at the park. The Twins frequently sell out their games. Here is a listing of the price points for Twins tickets in 2023: Center Field Grandstand ($12) Left Field Berm ($13) Right Field Lawn ($15) Porch/Drink Rail ($16) Scoreboard Pavilion ($20) Bullpen Zone ($26) Home Plate View/ 200 level ($29) Diamond Box ($31) Terrace Level ($32) Parking is $10 at Hammond Stadium. Extras 3 The Twins have a special Minnesota Day celebration each season. The event starts early in the morning before an afternoon game. This is the only day fans are allowed to tailgate. Fans are urged to bring some type of decoration that represents their area of the state. Lots of cheese curds and beer abound. Hammond Stadium also serves as the home field of the Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels of the Florida State League. They are the Single A affiliate of the Twins. There are several good spots to get a selfie at Hammond Stadium. As you head towards the stadium, there is a pole showing distances from Hammond Stadium to the Twin Cities and each of the cities hosting a Twins farm club. A second spot to consider is the fountain in front of Hammond’s elegant Floridian exterior. The Twins mascot T.C. Bear visits a number of the stands each game. He is very willing to pose with you in a photo. Final Thoughts Hammond Stadium delivers a strong Midwestern vibe to fans attending a Twins game during spring training. The fans show the Midwest spirit in welcoming visitors to their Florida outpost. The concession stand menus are filled with items like cheese curds, corn dogs and brats… and beer shakes. They’ll even toast you with a Killebrew root beer! The Twins have one of the largest and most loyal fan bases in Florida each spring, and the team shows its appreciation by holding a Minnesota Day at the end of spring training, where fans are urged to represent their hometown by wearing the colors of their community’s school for the final game before the team heads back up to Target Field.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 LECOM Park 1611 9th Street West Bradenton, FL 34205 Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training website LECOM Park website Year Opened: 1923 Capacity: 8,500 LECOM Park Celebrates Its Centennial Major League Baseball’s oldest Spring Training ballpark celebrated its 100th Birthday in 2023 as LECOM Park in Bradenton marked its centennial year. The park was known as McKechnie Field up until 2017 when it became LECOM Park as a part of a naming rights agreement with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. (Whew! Aren’t you glad the stadium uses the acronym version of that name?) Many regard LECOM Park as the “Fenway Park of Spring Training” as it is the third oldest baseball stadium in major league baseball after Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. The Pittsburgh Pirates call it their spring home. As you can expect, the stadium has undergone several renovations in its lifetime. One renovation was the result of heavy damage due to a hurricane. The other two took place in 1993 and 2013. The earlier renovation replaced the seating that had been in the stadium for 70 years as well as the mechanicals in the ballpark. In 2008 lights were added to the field, as prior to that only day games were played. The 2013 renovations enhanced the fan plaza and added bleacher seating in the left field area. The current dimensions at LECOM Park are 335’ in left field, 400’ to dead center, and 335’ in right field. The current capacity is 8,500 fans, making it the fourth-largest park in the Grapefruit League. One of the nicest things about LECOM Park’s location is its close proximity to several other parks in the Grapefruit League. This makes it possible for you to see the Atlanta Braves or the Baltimore Orioles on the same day as the Pirates game. Food & Beverage 5 LECOM Park offers a wide range of foods at very reasonable prices. However, if you are looking for a Primanti sandwich you are out of luck. LECOM vendors provide baseball standards and Florida fare. Most of the food vendors are located behind the home plate and first baseline bleachers. However these vendors can have long lines at points during the game, and you might find shorter lines closer to your seats along the third baseline or in the outfield sections of the stadium. Here’s an overview of the food vendors available at LECOM Park: Pirates Cove is located along the first base concourse. It offers pulled pork sandwiches, jumbo hot dogs, cheeseburgers, veggie burgers, brats, fried fish sandwiches, and Italian Ices ($6 - $9.50). The Home Plate Express is behind the largest grandstand on the Fan Plaza. They sell baseball standards including pizza slices ($5), nachos ($5), popcorn ($6.50), chips ($3) and pretzels ($6). The Hot Corner Deli on the third base side of the field offers a wide variety of sandwiches for $10, garden salads for $6, and chef salads for $9. The Snack Station is located at the base of the videoboard in center field. They offer Loaded BBQ Pork fries at $10, chicken tenders with fries ($11), a chicken sandwich for $7, and Cracker Jacks for $5. Select stands offer some decidedly Florida-style food. This includes grouper tenders ($14.75) and gator bites ($13.75)! The Craft Corner Beer stand offers craft beers in cans ($7.25), craft draft beers ($7.75), and a Big Storm Brewery Growler for $16. All stands offer Pepsi brand soft drinks ($6) and bottled water for $5.50. You’ll find a wide assortment of brand beers at the stands, along with dedicated stands for Southern Tier ($9), Yuengling ($9), and Leinenkugel ($9). Atmosphere 5 It is immediately apparent that you are at one of the most historic stadiums in baseball when you arrive at LECOM Park. The exterior skin of the stadium is constructed of Florida Spanish Mediterranean-style stucco, and a majority of the seating is covered by a roof or a canopy. The steel girders are all exposed, showing you how the stadium was built. The first thing you will come to after the ticket takers is the fan plaza. It is filled with booths selling all kinds of foods and baseball memorabilia. You will also see all sorts of fan participation games taking place, as well as some Adirondack chairs to rest in if you need a break from the action. As you head to the seating bowl, you’ll notice there are multiple sections of the grandstand surrounding the infield. The largest grandstand is directly behind the plate, and it is covered by a steel roof. The press box is also in this section of the stadium. On each side of the main grandstand is covered seating extending down the baselines. If you arrive early enough, head towards the fence along the first baseline. This is known as Autograph Alley, and during the pregame period, multiple Pirate players are available to sign autographs. After visiting the infield sections of the stadium, head out to the outfield seating areas via the boardwalk. This boardwalk allows you to walk 360 degrees around the field. If you head down the third baseline you will come to another set of bleachers that have a canopy to protect fans from the sun. You will also notice the palm trees and flags that form a backdrop to the outfield seating areas. The palm trees provide some shade for the fans, and give a more tropical feel to the stadiums. The black, gold, and white flags represent championship years for the Pirates organization. The white flags denote division championship years, the black flags denote years when the Pirates went to the World Series and the gold flags represent years when the Pirates won the World Series. In center field, you’ll reach the Boardwalk BBQ area, which is a group area for groups of 25 people or more. The large center field video board towers above this section of the field. As you head to the right field section of the outfield, you’ll notice the drink rails atop the outfield walls. They extend the rest of the way to the right field foul pole. The drink rails are available only in this section of the outfield, as rails in the other sections would block the view of people sitting in the bleachers. If you are getting thirsty as you walk around the stadium, do not worry… you will soon see the Kona Brewing Tiki Hut… it is not a mirage! Fans Atop the Boardwalk at Lecom Park, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey As you complete your tour around the field, take time to reflect on the 100-year-old stadium’s history and all of the baseball immortals that once played on this diamond! Neighborhood 4 LECOM Stadium is located at the corner of 17th Avenue West and Ninth Street West. This site puts it right in the middle of a city neighborhood in Bradenton. The surrounding area is very artsy, with the Village of the Arts right next door. There are many restaurants and shops within walking distance of the park. You might want to have a pre or postgame drink at Darwin Brewing, which is just across the street from the ballpark. A visit to the nearby Bishop Museum of Science and Nature provides you with an up-close look at the lives of the Florida manatees at their aquarium. The Hampton Inn Downtown Bradenton offers the closest accommodations to LECOM Park. Fans 4 Like most teams, the Pirates have a very loyal fan base. However, the Pittsburgh fan base is especially loyal, despite the dearth of Pirate championships in recent years. Spring training always offers hope that this year will be different, and Pirate fans are also eager to leave Pittsburgh’s harsh winters behind to enjoy the warm and sunny Florida weather. Many of these fans are very traditional, and they appreciate the heritage of LECOM Park and that it has not been discarded for a shiny new Spring Training stadium. Another portion of the crowd is the baseball chasers. While not aligned with a specific team, they are baseball fans who want to experience Spring Training in as many stadiums as possible during their Florida trip. LECOM Park benefits from this, as it is very close to stadiums used by the Atlanta Braves, the Baltimore Orioles, the Minnesota Twins, and the Boston Red Sox. The final component comes from the residents. Bradenton is a haven for retirees and empty nesters, and they can enjoy major league baseball in their home city for two months each year without the hassle of driving in a major city or having to pay major league prices to go to a game. Access 4 LECOM Park is easy to get to from I-75 via State Route 64 West. Finding the LECOM Park is easy… it is much harder to find a place to park. LECOM Park has very few dedicated parking spaces to the facility itself. However, you will find plenty of businesses, churches, and charities that are more than willing to let you use their parking lots at the same price charged by LECOM Park. Once at the stadium, the gates open two hours prior to the first pitch. This allows you plenty of time to wander the ballpark or check out the many concession stands and the Pirates Clubhouse Store on the plaza. The stadium increased its accessibility in 2013 with the construction of a boardwalk to and from the outfield stands, allowing you to walk 360 degrees around the playing field. Return on Investment 4 A day out at a Pirates game in Bradenton is much more affordable for fans than other Grapefruit League facilities. First off, the parking at the stadium is limited, but you can always find area merchants, churches, and charities that offer up their parking lots and charge the same $10 fee that is charged in the stadium lots. Tickets at LECOM Park are offered up at multiple price points depending on where you want to sit. Infield box seats are $33, Infield Reserved Third Baseline seats are $31, Baseline Box seats are $27, the Left Field Bleachers seats cost $20, and the First Baseline Grandstand seats are $19. We urge you to buy your tickets well in advance, as this offers you more choice in the location. The Pirates tickets frequently sell out, especially during the Centennial year of the stadium. Extras 5 Unlike most Spring Training facilities, the Pirates practice and maintain their training facilities away from their game facility in Bradenton. Pirate City is located six miles from LECOM Park. LECOM Park is also the home field for the Bradenton Marauders of the Florida State League. The Marauders are the Class A minor league affiliate for the Pirates. Among the players who have played at LECOM Park are Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron, Babe Ruth, Willie Stargell, Bill Mazeroski, and Ted Williams. Play was suspended during World War II. LECOM Park was used for military equipment storage during those years. During its lifetime LECOM Park has served as the Spring Training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Milwaukee Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Boston Red Sox, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Be sure to say “Thank you” to the ticket taker, the usher, or any of the folks who work the concession stands or in the team store. They are all volunteers from the Bradenton Pirates Boosters Club. The club staffs all the positions except the groundskeeping staff, at no cost to the Pirates. In addition, the booster club raises money throughout the year to make enhancements to the stadium possible. Final Thoughts LECOM Park has been a Pirate’s treasure for 100 years, putting it on equal standing with only Wrigley Field and Fenway Park in baseball history. The team's dedication to preserving the field and maintaining low prices for its fans is something to be admired. If you have never been to Bradenton for a Pirates or Marauders game, it is well worth it to visit next time you are in the area.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Haymarket Park 403 Line Drive Cir Lincoln, NE 68508 Nebraska Cornhuskers website Haymarket Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 8,419 Cornhusker Baseball at Haymarket Park Haymarket Park opened in 2001 and is home to the Nebraska Cornhuskers of the Big Ten Conference and the Lincoln Saltdogs of the American Association. The complex also houses Bowlin Stadium, a softball stadium home to the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Prior to 2002, Nebraska played their home games at Buck Beltzer Stadium on the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln. The stadium was named for Beltzer, a well-known Husker, after a donation from his family in 1979. The Cornhuskers played at 'The Buck' through the 2001 season, closing out their tenancy by hosting a Regional and Super Regional for the first time. In 2002, the Huskers moved to Haymarket Park where they have called home ever since. The stadium has 4,500 seats and can hold an additional 4,000 in the grass berms beyond the outfield wall. The field has won numerous honors for being among the best fields in the country to play on. In 2012, a college baseball writer ranked the field as the fourth best 'big game' atmosphere in college baseball. Haymarket Park is the first collegiate venue to use a system (SubAir) that can heat and cool a field year round, a well needed feature in Lincoln. The Cornhuskers took the field at Haymarket Park for the first time on March 5, 2002 and cruised to a 23-1 victory over Nebraska-Kearney. The Cornhuskers have averaged among the top 20 teams in terms of attendance the majority of the past ten years. In 2005, fans were witness to the Cornhuskers compiling a ridiculous 33-4 record at Haymarket Park. Food & Beverage 3 Pepsi products are the beverage of choice at Haymarket Park. Mountain Dew, Sierra Mist, and Mug Root Beer are available with Pepsi for $5.00 or $7.00 a large cup. Bottled soda ($5.00) water ($5.00), Gatorade ($6.00), coffee ($5.00) and hot chocolate ($5.00) are also available. Standard ballpark food can be had at three different spots in the concourse. Hamburgers ($7.00), BBQ pork sandwiches ($9.00), brats ($6.00), and pizza ($6.00) are among the food items. For snacks, peanuts, popcorn, candy, pretzels, sunflower seeds, etc. are available for about $3.00 to $4.00. For Friday and Saturday games, South of the Border Nachos can be had for $10. Alcohol is not served at Haymarket Park during Cornhuskers games, but does appear to be available during Saltdogs games. Atmosphere 5 Haymarket Park has a nice look and makes you think baseball as soon as you walk in the gates. The field is nicely manicured and the concourse is clean. Berm seating is available all the way around the outfield except for a portion of center field that houses some television cameras and serves as the batters eye. The stadium style seating is comfortable and the seats have cup holders. There is a great view of Memorial Stadium, home to Nebraska Cornhuskers football, beyond the left-center field fence. When the game gets started, the design of the stadium makes the crowd noise reverberate around the stadium, making it sound like there are more fans than it appears. Neighborhood 4 Haymarket Park is located just west of the University of Nebraska campus. Being a college town, there are plenty of places to have a drink and/or a bite to eat before or after the game. Lincoln has a wonderful downtown area, including the capitol building which is worth a visit (free) and less than two miles away. The capitol building was completed in 1932 and the tower can be seen throughout Lincoln. Located on 8th Street, Brewsky's is one of the places the locals assemble before or after a game. Brewsky's is a great place to stop and is only about a mile and a half from the stadium. The patty melt is very tasty. Bison Witches Bar & Deli is another stop worth making. There are plenty of choices of beer both domestic, import, and microbrew. The sandwiches and their chips and salsa are delicious. For lodging, the Cornhusker Hotel is located about two miles southeast of Haymarket Park, in downtown Lincoln. The capitol building is only a few blocks away as are numerous restaurants and bars. The Cornhusker Hotel is part of the Marriott chain and priced as such. For those looking for something a little cheaper, there are numerous choices for lodging about a mile and a half northwest of the stadium, near I-80. Fans 4 Nebraska fans are a dedicated crowd. They are into the game and know their players. Don't be surprised to hear the majority of the crowd break into the Nebraska fight song between innings. Even when their team is out of the game early, far more fans will remain on-hand than you would expect. Access 5 Haymarket Park is easily accessible off of I-180. Parking is free in the lots adjacent to the complex. The concourses are wide and easy to maneuver. There is plenty of seating for handicapped fans and their guests. There are six restrooms throughout the stadium. They are clean and sufficient for a decent sized crowd. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range anywhere from $7-$14. Every seat in the stadium has great views and going with the lower priced tickets will not take away from your experience. Couple the ticket cost with the fact that parking is free and Haymarket Park is a heck of a deal. Extras 5 There is a large play area for kids in the right field corner. The best part about it is there is plenty of standing room area for parents that want to see the game, yet keep an eye on their kids. A net separates the kids from potentially being hit by a ball. The concourse has banners hanging up that display all the Cornhuskers conference and post-season honors. One point for the program/scoresheet available for free when you walk in the gates. One point for a Cornhuskers merchandise store that carries a large supply of various baseball-specific Cornhusker items. The location of the ballpark is advantageous for any sports fan. In addition to the massive Memorial Stadium, many of the other athletic venus are in the same area, including the multi-purpose Pinnacle Bank Arena, which hosts Cornhuskers basketball, concerts, and many other entertainment shows. Final Thoughts Haymarket Park is a great place to watch a game. Cornhuskers fans are pleasant and are very into the game and behind their team. The park is aesthetically pleasing and Lincoln is a very nice college town with plenty of other things to do and see. A trip to Haymarket Park should be on the list of any college baseball fan.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Independence Field at Chautauqua Park 1200 Bluff Avenue Owensboro, KY 42303 Owensboro RiverDawgs website Independence Field at Chautauqua Park website Year Opened: Unknown Capacity: 200 Baseball & Barbecue in Owensboro Independence Field at Chautauqua Park is the home baseball field of Owensboro High School during the spring but during the summer months, it becomes the home field for the Owensboro RiverDawgs of the Ohio Valley League. The Dawgs debuted in 2018 in the league and captured the league title during its inaugural season. The small ballpark is situated in Chautauqua Park which features a playground, a swimming pool, and other facilities. Although small by most summer collegiate wood bat leagues in the vicinity, Independence Field provides a small-town vibe for the people of Owensboro to root for during the season that is ideal for the OVL. The town was home to minor league baseball from 1936-1955 in the Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee Leagues. The Owensboro Oiler's home field Miller Park was considered one of the better facilities in the KITty League but it would be razed following the 1955 season. The owner of the land that bordered residential housing deemed it to be valuable for a ballpark. A small retail development was built on the ballpark’s spot that today houses a discount store, supermarket, and auto parts store. Food & Beverage 3 There is a small concession stand at the stadium that offers quite a bit of concession items to satisfy the fans in attendance. Hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, and soft drinks are more than reasonably priced. The ballpark also features a pork chop sandwich, river dawg, and dawg nachos. Atmosphere 3 The vibe at the games is mellow and the crowds are small, similar to high school or even college baseball in the area. However, the talent on the field is enjoyable for the crowd that assembles to root for the home team. Independence Field features a synthetic infield that was installed for the 2019 season and an outfield made of natural stuff. A simple scoreboard is situated behind the right field wall and two small aluminum bleacher-style bleachers exist on opposite ends of a small press box situated directly behind home plate. The sounds that echo throughout the stadium are the sounds from the players on the field, the ball hitting the inside of a glove, and the crack of the bat against the ball. Players in the dugouts are heard cheering and jeering on both sides and the few in the stands show their appreciation with a few cheers and jeers of their own. Neighborhood 3 Owensboro, Kentucky, has a population of 59,000 and is about 30 miles south of Evansville, Indiana, along the Ohio River. The city itself is known for its style of barbecue that features smoked mutton served with a sauce known as black dip. Various places offer this style of cue that includes Old Hickory Bar-B-Que and Olde South Barbecue, but one place attracts a loyal and national following in town. Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn offers a lunch and dinner buffet of its award-winning barbecue that includes pork ribs, sliced brisket, and chopped and pulled mutton. The buffet also features fried shrimp, smoked ham slices, turkey and dressing, and homemade burgoo (a stew consisting of vegetables and barbecue meat). There is also an array of delicious desserts of pies, cobblers, and cakes available. Next door to the buffet is a take-out counter along with sauces to go. There are other places to eat in town that include The Miller House, Lure Seafood & Grille, Bill’s, and Colby’s Fine Foods. The bourbon trail runs through town at O.Z. Tyler Distillery offers tours and free tastings. The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, Owensboro of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Science and History also provides places to see during the day. Smothers Park offers nice views of the riverfront. Fans 2 The sprinkling of fans in the stands is friends or family members of many of the players out on the field. This is similar to other smaller summer collegiate leagues, but there are a few faithful who are out there supporting the local club; they make their voices heard during the nine innings of play. Access 3 Chautauqua Park is located at the edge of downtown and only a few miles from SR 60 which connects with I-165. There is a small parking lot for cars and once inside, the ballpark is small enough that everything you need is almost within your fingertips. Return on Investment 3 The price of a ticket to a game is $5 and concession prices are fairly reasonable with a hot dog costing $2 and a soda pop the same. A very inexpensive night of baseball in a low-key environment. Owensboro itself offers a few great places to eat, tour, and drink. Extras 2 Attending a game in Owensboro provides the traveler to enjoy a delicious barbecue meal at Moonlite Bar-B-Q before the game, the lunch buffet is only $11. The food at the ballpark is also very inexpensive and quite tasty, just in case you are still a bit hungry. Final Thoughts The Ohio Valley League offers baseball in nine different small towns in Kentucky and Indiana with many of the fields high school or college fields. The small-town atmosphere, friendly vibes, and great barbecue make Owensboro a nice destination if you find yourself somewhere on the OVL map during June and July.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 William G. Tierney Field 2 Loveton Cir Sparks Glencoe, MD 21152 US Lacrosse website William G. Tierney Field website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 2,000 The Home Of Lacrosse US Lacrosse is the national governing body of men;s and women’s lacrosse in the United States and was founded in 1998. The National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Museum used to be located in Baltimore, Maryland, on the campus of Johns Hopkins University and first inducted members back in 1957. In 2016 both the organization and the hall of fame were moved to a new facility in Sparks, Maryland, a northern suburb of Baltimore. The facility includes a field as well as a headquarters building. The IWLCA Building at US Lacrosse National Headquarters is the centerpiece of the campus. The three-level structure hosts office and meeting space for the US Lacrosse staff, the Crum Family Education and Training Center, locker rooms, and that new National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Museum. The field next to the building is William G. Tierney Field and is the training home for the U.S. National Teams Program. It is also used for more than 60 college and high school lacrosse games per season. The game we attended was a women’s game between two Division III teams. Seating is first-come, first-served, and fans may bring collapsible camping/tailgating chairs and blankets for hillside/grass areas. There is an overall 2,000 via bleacher and grass seating, although around 500 is permanent. Admission is free for the majority of games at Tierney Field. There may be an occasional larger game where admission is charged but the bulk of the game atmospheres will be identical as in our review. Food & Beverage 1 There is not a permanent food stand located at US Lacrosse. The game we attended parents of one of the teams had set up a small stand with limited options. The best you can probably hope for is some coffee or hot chocolate on a cold day or a candy bar. Plan ahead and bring your own food. Atmosphere 4 There is a nice grandstand along the building side of the field. The field is also surrounded by a walkway and grass areas that you can watch the action as well. The facility is designed well and is a perfect place to watch some lacrosse. Neighborhood 4 Sparks is a northern Baltimore County area that is highly suburban. The Hunt Valley Towne Centre is just a couple miles south and has many food and drink options for your pre- or post-game. A few good recommendations there would be Iron Rooster – Hunt Valley, The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille or Barrett’s Grill. Andy Nelson’s Barbecue Restaurant is also not far in that direction and offers some tasty options. Another option is to venture towards the much more rural, northern direction where the Milton Inn, The Filling Station, and Casa Mia’s Restaurant are good options. Happy hour specials at Casa Mia’s are a personal favorite. Fans 5 This region is one of the hearts of lacrosse and fans are knowledgeable and usually quite into the game action. The crowd tends to be made up of family members and local alumni of the teams involved. Access 4 Tierney Field and US Lacrosse are located off a well known north/south road, York Road, and is located not far from the I-83, Harrisburg Expressway. It should not be difficult to find the facility. There is a small parking lot at the main entrance to the facility and a larger lot behind the complex. I would imagine that the parking could get tighter for a bigger game. The facility is located in a business complex so you should still be able to find parking, but please do not block business access routes. Return on Investment 5 The games are generally free so the return on investment is strong. Extras 3 The National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Museum is located right off from the stands so it is worth a quick visit there before or even during games. It is nice to see a field dedicated to a single sport, so you will not see too many extra line markings for the lacrosse action. There are some differences between the men’s and women’s games so those are the differences you will see in terms of markings. There are some interesting areas dedicated to explaining certain college lacrosse teams and the traditions of excellence of each of those programs. Plan on spending some time reading about the great programs of the sport. Final Thoughts If you enjoy lacrosse and will be in the Baltimore area you should check out the Tierney Field schedule and stop by this fine little facility.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Jerry D. Young Memorial Field 840 12th St Birmingham, AL 35294 UAB Blazers website Young Memorial Field website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 1,000 Jerry D. Young Memorial Field – UAB Blazers In the shadows of the statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and the forge which sits atop Red Mountain near the city of Birmingham, sits the University of Alabama-Birmingham’s campus, and Jerry D. Young Memorial Field. UAB is the lone remaining member of Conference USA since its inception in 1995, but announced in the fall of 2022 they would be moving to the American Conference at the start of the 2023-24 academic year. Food & Beverage 4 A small concession stand sits under the grandstand. While the stand might be small, it does offer a decent variety of options. Main entrees include smoked sausage, grilled chicken, BBQ sandwiches, hot dogs, and nachos. Candy and other snack foods are also available. Beverages include Pepsi products and Gatorade, along with beer and wine at a neighboring beverage cart. Concessions at Young Memorial Field are cashless. Atmosphere 3 The area around Young Memorial Field is currently undergoing significant construction, so it can be somewhat of a maze traveling to the stadium. The temporary inconveniences should be ironed out in due time, though, as the area receives upgrades. The Blazers had a new synthetic playing surface installed following the 2022 season. The infield “dirt” now has a much lighter brown hue, which gives it the appearance of natural dirt rather than the deep brown most baseball fields have. Centerfield is emblazoned with the university’s dragon logo, which adds a bit of personalization to the playing surface. The field plays a touch shorter for left-handed hitters, with the right field line playing 330’ compared to 335’ down the left field line. The right center power alleys run 360’, compared to 370’ to left center and 400’ to dead centerfield. The fence runs 8 feet high around the outfield – the massive batters' eye is out of play, but does help break up the continuity of the consistent 8-foot fence. The scoreboard at Young Memorial Field provides typical inning line score information, and is topped with a videoboard that provides player statistical information and the batting team’s lineup. The game starts with a bit of a college feel, as the UAB fight song plays while the Blazers take the field; this is a nice touch that helps to establish the college atmosphere. Between inning entertainment is typically filled with a mix of ad reads and music, much as would be expected at most baseball games. There is not much in the way of interactive scoreboard fan cams or games, and other than a kid’s dizzy bat race there are not many of the field games either. In-game sound effects are kept to a minimum for the most part. The lack of these features does not take away from the game experience, however. Neighborhood 4 Young Memorial Field is less than a mile from Regions Field, home of the Birmingham Barons, AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Since the Barons moved back to Birmingham following an extended stay in nearby Hoover, the Southside neighborhood has seen a significant revitalization. Many of the former warehouses and industrial buildings have been transformed into restaurants, breweries, condominiums, and apartments. Fans coming to early season games might be able to double-up and take in a Blazers’ basketball game at Bartow Arena, just a block from Young Memorial Field. With the University of Alabama-Birmingham's location, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity. Those who might not want to stay in the city, though, can find an almost endless number of hotels anywhere off Highway 280, which runs from Birmingham to the suburbs on the back side of Red Mountain. Fans 2 Over the years, opponents from Power 5 conferences have drawn relatively large attendance numbers to Young Memorial Field, often more than 1,000, but typical attendance numbers range from 200 to 400 fans per game. Students do not seem to make up a significant portion of the overall attendance – attendance numbers remain consistent regardless of whether classes are in session or if students are on break. Fans who do turn out appear to be enjoying themselves, but do not seem to make for a sizable home field advantage. Access 4 Getting to Young Memorial Field is rather simple, save any traffic backups that might need to be navigated through. The downtown Birmingham area is at the junction of I-65 and I-20, making Birmingham easily accessible to nearby cities. The city bus line also has a stop just a block north of the stadium. The main parking lot used for baseball is located behind the softball complex, almost immediately off the I-65 off ramp. From here it is a short walk around Mary Bowers Field to the entrance that both teams share. The current construction contains fans to the third base side of the field, the grandstand, and the small area between the grandstand and the visiting dugout. At the moment fans cannot access the first base side of the field from inside the stadium; expect this to change as construction progresses. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices typically top out at $5 for most games, but tickets for premium games are priced at $10. Either of the two price points are not going to break the wallet. When you factor in free parking and none of the concession items costing more than $6, excluding alcohol options, taking in a game is kept to a very reasonable rate. Some higher profile UAB baseball games are held at Regions Field, which are priced on the premium side, while a handful of other games are held at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium, with free admission for those games. Extras 2 Just outside the right field fence is a nondescript stone seating area. It does not look like much, but it was once part of the original baseball field at Mortimer Jordan Park, which sat on this same parcel of land. This stonework has been preserved, and the chain-link fence in this part of the outfield wall gives passersby a chance to sit and watch the game from this location. The grassy area between the softball and baseball fields is a wonderful place for young fans to run and play catch during the game. Final Thoughts In a city rich with baseball and iron industry history, the UAB Blazers have been working to forge their own baseball history since the program’s inception in 1979. While some stadiums earn their reputation as great baseball experiences through large, rambunctious stadiums and fans, something can be said for baseball at smaller stadiums. Stadiums that are not constantly consumed with sound allow fans to pick up on a lot of the finer points of college baseball – the sizzle of a fast ball, the barks of the coaches toward the umpires, and the chirps between teams. Though the game experience at schools with smaller attendances might not be at the top of the list when it comes to the most memorable, games at these stadiums are a wonderful time for those who enjoy the finer details of college baseball.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 UNT Coliseum Super Pit 801 North Texas Blvd Denton, TX 76201 North Texas Mean Green website UNT Coliseum Super Pit website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 10,500 North Texas Basketball’s Super Pit The University of North Texas Coliseum is the home court for the Mean Green men’s and women’s basketball teams. The arena is unofficially known as the Super Pit, which nickname arose because the predecessor, a smaller gymnasium, was referred to as the Snake Pit (the men’s gym would flood during heavy rainstorms, and once the water was gone, local snakes forced from their homes were found in the building). Today UNT Coliseum embraces that history with large signs outside advertising the Super Pit, while the official name is still visible on much smaller signage. UNT Coliseum opened in 1973 on the University of North Texas’ campus in Denton, about 40 minutes north of Dallas and Fort Worth. The new venue was considered one of the finest basketball facilities in the southwest, as the building was awarded first and second-round games for the 1976 and 1980 NCAA Basketball Tournaments, and the arena continued to host tournaments through the 1980s. The biggest in UNT basketball history was the 1988 Men’s Southland Conference Tournament, as North Texas rolled past McNeese State and Northeast Louisiana to capture the conference championship, and its first ever invitation to the NCAA Tournament. In 2005, the men’s Sun Belt Conference Tournament was also held at the Super Pit. Food & Beverage 3 There isn’t anything exotic at the concessions here, as the stands only offer basic stadium fare. The highest food prices belong to the brisket sandwich basket or brisket nachos – after all, what is a trip to Texas if you aren’t offered BBQ of some kind? Besides brisket you can also get jalapeno cheese sausage wraps, hot dogs, or pretzels. All food items fall inside the $10 range. The best option, however, if you just want a snack, is the souvenir popcorn for $8 – this bucket of popcorn is oversized and comes with a free refill. UNT Coliseum serves Coca-Cola products including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Powerade, and Mr. Pibb. The best option for soda is the larger souvenir cup for $6, which comes with a free refill. Alcohol sales offer a choice of domestic and import beer ($7-$8) or wine ($13), but there isn’t a large selection. The concessions were really a pleasant surprise with the pricing of the items and the very fast service. Atmosphere 2 There isn’t much of an atmosphere at UNT Coliseum due to the fact there isn’t much of a crowd in attendance. The North Texas band starts performing once the gates open, which is an hour before game time, but the two-tier seating bowl swallows up the few early arrivals, until near tip-off when a larger number of fans arrive at their seats. The UNT dance team and spirit squad are located at opposite baselines – the cheerleaders are on the UNT band side of the court and the dance team is near the UNT bench. The mascot Scrappy, an eagle, walks around UNT Coliseum during the game for photo opportunities. There are dedicated fans that make a lot of noise, and, combined with the enthusiasm of the band and cheerleaders, keep the Super Pit entertaining despite the small numbers in attendance. Neighborhood 3 UNT Coliseum “Super Pit” is located on the University of North Texas’ campus across from Fouts Field on North Texas Blvd. Denton has a population of 113K people, and is the northernmost point of the DFW area, where Interstate 35 splits into two major arteries going to Fort Worth and Dallas; the 2 metropolises are both about 40 miles from Denton. There are a few attractions in Denton, the most well-known being the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum and the Bayless-Shelby House Museum – this area is the heart of the college town atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants on E. Hickory and S. Locust Streets. Some of the best restaurants in this area are Hannah’s Off the Square, Rooster’s Roadhouse, Hoochies, and LSA Burger Co. – any of these would be a great place to start the pre or post-game experience, since there are no restaurants near the Super Pit. Lodging near UNT Coliseum is limited to Hampton Inn, Howard Johnson, Motel 6, and Best Western, which is just up Interstate 35 on W. University Ave. However, the best options for lodging would likely be near DFW airport, if you are flying in from out of town. Fans 2 The University of North Texas men’s basketball program’s average attendance last season was 3,800 – UNT Coliseum’s seating capacity is 10,500, so 37% of the arena is filled, which doesn’t bode well for the Mean Green faithful, even in a football state. However, they did manage to outdraw their future American Athletic Conference rival, SMU. The acoustics are also done very well, so the small crowd can seem to get a little louder when the action heats up on the court. There is one thing you can count on with Mean Green fans at UNT basketball games, though – they are truly basketball fans, and not there just to be social. In UNT’s entrance to the American Athletic Conference next season, I expect the attendance to rise, with better competition and a nearby rival in SMU. Access 5 Access to UNT Coliseum “Super Pit” is outstanding as the venue is right off I-35E on campus, and offers very easy navigation to and from the parking lots between Fouts Field and the Super Pit – parking is free in a large lot just across North Texas Boulevard from the arena. There are also plenty of entrances into UNT Coliseum, and the concourse is wide enough for all. Fans can also visit the many displays here commemorating the history of North Texas sports; there were no problems whatsoever in getting around this venue or using the facilities. Return on Investment 5 The return on investment for a visit to Denton to watch NCAA Division 1 basketball in an old school venue might be one of the highest returns in the country – the free parking right next to the venue begins the great return on investment while visiting the Super Pit. In addition, the two levels of pricing for Mean Green Basketball tickets are either $25 for reserved seats or $18 for general admission; the general admission seating is on the baselines, but there isn’t a bad seat in the building. The concession prices are also relatively low cost compared to other venues – UNT Coliseum is a wonderful reminder of North Texas’ past arenas, and the university keeps the venue in great shape for being over 40 years old. Just a note: North Texas is changing conferences – the 2023-24 basketball season will find the Mean Green in the American Athletic Conference. This could raise ticket prices in the coming year. Extras 3 The ability to watch a basketball game in an old-time arena, that has been essentially unchanged for 40 years is a plus, as are the displays of the basketball program’s history in two different conferences, in both of which UNT won championships. There is also a trophy case in the concourse displaying basketball honors, including Sun Belt Tournament Championships from 2007 and 2010, as well as their recent success playing in Conference USA. The most famous player from the North Texas Mean Green shares their unique namesake – NFL Hall of Famer and former Pittsburgh Steeler Mean Joe Greene was a Mean Green player. The University of North Texas’ nickname was adopted in 1966 when the North Texas football defense finished second in the nation against the rush – Joe Greene was a sophomore that year, and part of that defense. When he joined the Steelers in 1969, fans there thought that “Mean Green” was his nickname while at North Texas, and it stuck. Of course the university has kept the name, despite having an eagle as their mascot. Mean Joe is also a member of the UNT Hall of Fame. Final Thoughts UNT Coliseum is a link to the past, hearkening to a different era of basketball, yet well-maintained and allowing fans to step back in time. The Super Pit is a great old venue, and a replica of Dallas’ old Reunion Arena with its design and basketball experience. There isn’t a need to make a special trip to Denton to see it, but if you are already in the area it would be a treat to spend a couple of hours in the Ageless Super Pit.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Pelham Civic Complex 500 Amphitheater Road Pelham, AL 35124 Birmingham Bulls website Pelham Civic Complex website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 4,100 Pelham Civic Complex – Birmingham Bulls Approximately 20 miles south of Birmingham, Alabama is the suburban city of Pelham, home of Pelham Civic Complex and the Birmingham Bulls. There has been some form of hockey under the name Birmingham Bulls off and on since 1976, with teams playing in the World Hockey Association (1976-79), the Central Hockey League (1979-81), the ECHL (1997–2001). These versions of the Bulls would play at the now Legacy Arena. Hockey would make just a one-year return to the Birmingham area for the 2003-04 season, this time in Pelham with the Alabama Slammers of the World Hockey Association 2. Following a thirteen-year hockey hiatus the current incarnation of the Birmingham Bulls would come to fruition in the Southern Professional Hockey League at Pelham Civic Complex in 2017. Food & Beverage 5 The food available at Pelham Civic Complex might be the deepest in all minor league sports, and quite possibly could stand up against just about any major league franchise. From burgers to dogs and sausages, to wings and pizza, entrée options are almost endless. Snacks include the usual chips and candy, but dive deep into fried pickles, fried okra, hush puppies, and even mini corn dogs. Combo meals including catfish nuggets, BBQ sandwiches, or a Cuban sandwich. Beer and liquor are plentiful as well, but beer options are more centered around domestic brands, with not much of a craft beer selection. Also, having three primary concession stands and four bars spaced around the arena helps keep lines and wait times down. Atmosphere 3 With its low roof line, it’s hard to picture a four thousand seat hockey arena inside Pelham Civic Complex. Within the playing area black seats encircle the rink, but do not make the playing area feel too small, but rather give it more of a cozy feel. The size of the arena is just about the perfect size for the Bulls and their fans. A four-sided scoreboard hangs above center ice, but given the low roof, the panels on each side are shorter than most scoreboards, even those in smaller arenas. During play the scoreboard shows a live feed of the action on the ice, and gives time, score, and shots-on-goal totals, along with any time remaining on power plays. During breaks in the action it is also used for hype videos and advertisements. There is plenty to keep fans entertained throughout the game, including fan cams, on-ice contests, and engaging music to keep fans entertained during stoppages in play. Also the team mascot, Toro, makes appearances around the arena and on ice. There is not a bad seat in the house – when choosing a seat, sitting at the top of the sections help eliminate a semi-distorted view created by a portion of the ice having glass in front of it, as the rest is unobstructed. Fans with accessibility needs have a section dedicated to providing them with a full-length view of the ice, rather than sitting mostly below the sideboards. Neighborhood 3 Pelham Civic Complex is tucked behind a row of gas stations, hotels, and regional and national chain restaurants that connect I-65 and Pelham Parkway. However, the arena has such a wide variety of choices on its concessions menu that a pre-game meal might not be necessary. If you are still looking to grab a bite before or after the game, though, nearby Creekside BBQ would be a good choice. Beer enthusiasts might also enjoy a visit to The Beer Hog with its two-hundred craft beers and sixty-five taps. Nature lovers might enjoy exploring the nearby Oak Mountain State Park with its various outdoor activities. The arena is also neighbored by Oak Mountain Amphitheater, and sits across the street from a still in-progress, mixed-use development that will feature restaurants, retail shops, and apartments. Fans 4 Fans start piling up at the arena’s metal detectors about an hour before the doors open. The inadvertent clatter of cowbells also rattles up and down the line in anticipation of being allowed in. A group of rather rambunctious fans pick the seats at the far end of the rink, right behind the visiting goalie. They have dubbed themselves the “10H8 Rowdy Bunch” – this bunch is quick to heckle anyone on the ice who is not in a Bulls sweater, by comparing their performance to that of a vacuum. Fans work themselves into a frenzy at the announcement of a power play. This is when the previously clattered cowbells are now paired with the sound of a vuvuzela, as the fans stomp and clap in hopes the Bulls are able to muster a power play goal. Access 3 Pelham Civic Complex is located less than a mile off Interstate-65 heading into Birmingham. With Birmingham being the junction of four major interstate highways (I-20, I-22, I-59, and I-65), the area is accessible from several of the metropolitan areas in the southeast. Once at the arena, most parking is to the right side of the building, and is just a short walk to the front entrance, which is the only entry point for non-season ticket holders. Season ticket holders have a VIP entrance on the main parking lot side of the building. The main lobby fills quickly as fans file in to purchase apparel, Chuck-a-Puck opportunities, jersey raffles, and 50/50 tickets. It can take a bit of work to get through the lobby at first, but as fans start moving toward their seats the lobby empties out. There are four main entry points into the rink – two doorways enter directly to a small area of seats on either side of the near end of the arena, while two other entry points are used to access seats on each side of the ice. To the left of the main entrance, fans will walk upstairs to an inner walkway that wraps two-thirds around the rink, and make their way down to their seats from there. To the right fans, walk below the stands and come through tunnels to get to the seating area; either side of the rink is easily accessible. Return on Investment 3 Prices for tickets are not substantially expensive, but they might be a tick higher than expected for minor league hockey. Typical general admission tickets run $15 plus another $5 for parking, so fans are $20 in before walking through the doors. Inside the arena, well-priced concessions do a good job balancing out the ticket and parking rates. Most snacks of substance are $6-$7, while baskets, such as entrées with fries, are $10. Extras 2 The Birmingham Bulls app allows fans to take part in interactive in-game contests, as well as check game stats in real time. In the SPHL, almost every night seemingly has a theme, gate giveaway, or jersey auction – there always seems to be something special going on at each game. Final Thoughts When you move away from the bright lights and thousands upon thousands of seats at the highest levels of professional hockey, you tend to find some of the most passionate fan bases in all sports. These levels allow fans to make personal connections with players and vice versa. Fans in these arenas care deeply about their teams, and that feeling bleeds through to the enjoyment of attending a Bulls hockey game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Nickerson Field 285 Babcock St. Boston, MA 02215 Boston University Lacrosse website Nickerson Field website Year Opened: 1915 Capacity: 9,871 A Historic Home Nickerson Field, located on the Boston University campus, is the home of the Boston University lacrosse and soccer teams. It previously served as home of the BU football team before the school disbanded the program after the 1997 season. The field is named for William Emery Nickerson, a partner of King C. Gillette during the early years of the Gillette Safety Razor Company, who was the principal inventor of machinery to manufacture the first Gillette safety razors. Nickerson was also a BU trustee and benefactor of the Terrier football squad. More notably, the site of Nickerson Field was originally Braves Field, the home of Major League Baseball’s Boston Braves from 1915-1953, before the team moved to Milwaukee. Parts of Braves Field remain as parts of Nickerson Field, including the entry gate and right field pavilion. The old ticket offices have been converted for use by the school’s police department. Several other teams, including the Boston Patriots, have called Nickerson Field home over the years. The Boston University lacrosse team was founded in 2014. In their decade of play, the Terriers have won one Patriot League championship and have qualified for one NCAA tournament, both in 2022. Food & Beverage 0 Despite the presence of several concession stands at Nickerson Field, there are no food or beverages available for purchase at a Terriers lacrosse game. Fans are welcome to bring in their own snacks to enjoy during the game. With City Convenience store located just beyond the southwest end zone, it’s simple enough to pick something up. Fans can even leave the game, run over to the store to pick something up and come right back. Atmosphere 2 You wouldn’t expect an elaborate game day presentation at a college lacrosse game with the smallish crowds present at a place like Nickerson Field, and you won’t get one here. That doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy your time at a BU lacrosse game. The fans are into the action, connected to the players on the field, and boisterous in their support. Lacrosse games are a lot of fun to experience. There is a decent-sized video scoreboard in the northeast end zone, which is somehow swallowed up by the size of Nickerson Field. The scoreboard provides replays, some graphics and basic game statistics. The only speakers in the facility are located near the scoreboard, which mutes the music and PA announcements. While it’s a pleasant change to not be overwhelmed by noise throughout a game, it can be hard to hear game information. Youth lacrosse teams take the field at halftime and fill Nickerson Field with noise throughout the game. Sports historians will certainly enjoy the photos that line the concourse from throughout the stadium’s long lifespan. Neighborhood 4 Boston University is an urban campus, straddling Commonwealth Avenue for approximately a mile and a half on the Boston/Brookline border. While this area of Boston isn’t considered a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of things to do in the vicinity. Located adjacent to Nickerson Field are several of Boston University’s athletic facilities, including Agganis Arena, Case Gymnasium and Walter Brown Arena. Fans coming to the BU campus will find plenty of choices nearby if eating before or after the game. Raising Cain is a popular fast-food place known for their variety of chicken wings, located about a block from Nickerson Field. T’s Pub is a popular gathering spot on Commonwealth Ave, as is Sunset Cantina, which features Mexican-style fare. There are several excellent Thai restaurants around, including the Brown Sugar Café. The Paradise Rock Club, known for giving bands like U2, Phish and REM their first area shows, is located on Commonwealth Avenue right in front of Nickerson Field. It continues to host both local acts and up-and-coming national acts. Out of town visitors to Boston will be interested to know Kenmore Square and Fenway Park are just over a mile away from Nickerson Field. Not far beyond that are the tourist destinations of Copley Square, Back Bay, Boston Common and Chinatown. All are easily accessed by the Green Line, which has stops up and down Commonwealth Avenue. Fans 3 As a rule, lacrosse fans are very knowledgeable and passionate about the sport and the action on the field. Since the great majority of the fans in the stands have a personal connection to the players on the field, it’s understandable that they are heavily invested in the outcome and boisterous in their support. Lacrosse games have an energy to them that other sports just don’t seem to always enjoy, and Nickerson Field is no exception. The college lacrosse season runs from February to May, so you can expect some bad weather in this part of the country early in the season. Crowds generally start off small and build over the course of the season as it warms up. Stadium Journey attended a game on a beautiful mid-March afternoon and the crowd numbered over 500. This appears to be a representative crowd for Terrier lacrosse. Crowds generally number between 250-500. Also notable in the crowd were several four-legged lacrosse fans. Ironically, not a single terrier was seen among the good doggos present. Access 4 Boston University is an urban campus that straddles Commonwealth Avenue in Boston’s Fenway/Kenmore and Allston neighborhoods. While Boston can be a difficult city to get around, “Comm Ave” is one of the city’s main drags and easily accessible for visitors. Both the Mass Pike (Interstate 90) and Storrow Drive pass near Nickerson Field. Detailed driving directions can be found here. The easiest method for getting to Nickerson Field is the city’s subway system, known locally as the “T.” The green line’s B train has a stop at Babcock Street, a two-minute walk from the facility. The 57 bus also has a stop at Babcock Street near the stadium. Full bus and subway schedules can be found here. The seating area at Nickerson Field is the former right field pavilion at Braves Field, which dates all the way back to 1915. It’s a simple structure which runs the length of one side of the lacrosse field. Seating consists mainly of metal bleachers without backs, with some sections of folding plastic seats around midfield. The grandstand is pushed back a distance from the playing field but still provides good views of the action. There is plenty of room to spread out or stand should you prefer. There are spots outside of the stadium proper which provide complete views of the facility. You will see many BU students stop and take in the action for a bit before moving on. Rest rooms are small, but clean and ample for a typical Terrier lacrosse crowd. These rest rooms must have been stretched to their limits during the days the Braves or Patriots used the facilities. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Terrier lacrosse games costs eight dollars. Children under 12 are admitted free of charge. Be aware that tickets can be purchased with cash only. Parking is available in the nearby Langsam Garage or in a pair of lots behind Agganis Arena. There is ample on-street parking in the neighborhood, although spots may be difficult to find. Feeding a meter in the area will run you six dollars for the three hours you are parked for a lacrosse game. With no concessions or merchandise for sale at a Terrier game, you won’t break the bank with a visit to Nickerson Field. Extras 2 As mentioned earlier, Nickerson Field was born as Braves Field early in the 20th century. Obviously, there is a long and rich history here. Boston University displays this history with photos from the facility’s days as home of the Braves and Terriers. Free rosters, schedules and posters are available for all visiting fans. Final Thoughts Fans of sports history will undoubtedly enjoy a visit to Nickerson Field to take in the aura of the place. Of all the “jewel box” ballparks of its era, Braves Field has the largest amount of its original structure remaining. And bonus, you’ll be able to take in some affordable, quality lacrosse while you’re there! Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey and Shippensburg Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Heiges Field House 333 Lancaster Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257 Shippensburg Raiders website Heiges Field House website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 2,768 Ship Shape Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania (Ship or SU) is a public university in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and more than 50 master’s degree programs. Many of the original historic buildings of the campus, including Old Main, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Famous alumni of the school include Brent Grimes, former National Football League cornerback; Rob Davis, the Director of Player Development of the Green Bay Packers; and best-selling author Dean Koontz. The Raiders are members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) and have been members of the PSAC since its foundation in 1951. The Dixon trophy is awarded to the top athletic program in the 18 universities Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Shippensburg has won the trophy seven times, the most by any PSAC member. The field hockey team at Ship has been the most successful team on campus winning the national championship in Division II twice in the last six years. Football has been a strong team as well. The mascot is “Big Red,” a red-tail hawk wearing a pirate hat. Heiges Field House was the second-largest wooden-domed structure in the world when it opened. The arena is the home to the school’s volleyball, wrestling, and basketball programs, as well as housing swimming in the attached pool. From 2004 to 2007, the Red Raiders posted a 37-3 record in home basketball games, which led the students of Shippensburg at the time to nickname Heiges Field House, “The Dungeon.” The arena has a wooden playing surface designed by the same floor designer as the University of North Carolina and the University of Kansas. Food & Beverage 2 There are small food stands open for basketball games. The offerings are basic, so eat before the game. Atmosphere 3 The arena feels very open and has a typical atmosphere for a Division II level school. The field house roof is on perfect display at all times with its cool style and large fans coming from it. Neighborhood 3 Shippensburg is a nice little town located just to the north of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as well as the Maryland border. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. You can’t go wrong with CJ’s American Pub & Grill for dinner and then stopping by Goose Bros. Ice Cream for dessert. There are other options as it is a small college town with quite a few varieties of places to go. Nearby Chambersburg has many more local and chain options. Fans 3 The crowds are pretty good as Division II schools in Pennsylvania tend to have a good following. Access 4 Shippensburg is located right off Interstate 81, a major route from the south through to the northeast. Accessing the campus is easy as you get off that main road as it is marked well. The university is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the field. Parking is usually free but if it is a weeknight when classes are in session, please make sure to check parking regulations. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are around $10 and parking is free. This is a fairly good value for a decent quality game. Extras 2 There are many trophy cases in the small lobby that offer a glimpse of the successes of the various Raider teams. The unique architecture of the roof is a great extra all on its own. Final Thoughts Shippensburg plays at a good level of basketball and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

Photos by Lloyd Brown Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Mullett Arena 411 S Packard Drive Tempe, AZ 85281 Arizona State Sun Devils website Mullett Arena website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 4,600 Sun Devils Heat Up In Their New Hockey Home Arizona State University has had a hockey program at some level since the 1980s. This started with club hockey and made it through many levels of ACHA hockey, where they were a dominant program, taking part in 10 National ACHA Tournaments, and winning the ACHA National Championship in 2014. In 2015 the Sun Devils moved to Division 1 status in the NCAA, where they play as an independent. The Sun Devils hockey program has had several venues to call their home ice. Once they reached NCAA Division I status, the ASU program split its games between the off-campus Gila River Arena and the Oceanside Ice Arena in Tempe. These arenas each suffered from either having too much or too little seating capacity for the program. The pressure mounted to have an arena of its own, with a capacity of 5,000 seats, preferably on campus. Fast forward to the 2022-2023 season and the Sun Devils' dreams have come true. In November 2022 the 5,000-seat Mullett Arena opened in the athletic complex located on the Arizona State University campus. This was made possible due to a sizeable donation by the Mullett family, which included naming rights for the venue. The move has been met with capacity crowds and a noticeable increase in fan support from the student body at Arizona State. The new arena will allow the school to host hockey tournaments, as it has multiple locker rooms and access to several lodging choices to house visiting teams. The 5,000-seat capacity includes a 1,000-seat student section, 658 club seats, 22 suites at the 200 level, and 10 loge boxes at the concourse level of the arena. Food & Beverage 4 You will find a better-than-average selection of food and beverages at Sun Devil hockey games. Unfortunately, while Mullett Arena is primarily a college venue, you’ll find the concession stands charge NHL and movie theatre-level prices. We’ll share the cost of the most purchased items first, then highlight the specialty items found at each location. Our grade in this section reflects the variety of foods available at Mullett Arena. The price of concessions will be a part of the Return-on-Investment grade later in this review. Each stand offers hot dogs ($6), nachos ($7), burgers ($13), fries ($6.50), and popcorn ($7). The standard prices for bottled water, Powerade, or Coca-Cola sodas are $6.00. Domestic beers are $14 and premium beers are $15. There are five concession stands to choose from at Mullett Arena. Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers offers sliders and wings. Venezia’s Pizza is owned by an ASU alum. Basis pizza slices are offered, while a Hat Trick slice made of pepperoni, bacon, and sausage is #14. Venezia’s also offers a Cobb salad, and Sparky’s Hot Spot features several spicy Southwestern dishes including the Inferno Dog. The Desert chicken cheesesteak, and the Steak Supreme Nachos. The Neighborhood Burger offers sliders for $15, as well as a chicken tender basket for $15. Shaq’s Big Chicken offers a big chicken spicy sandwich ($12.50) and a Nashville Hot chicken sandwich ($13.50). Mullett Marketplace is a convenience store formatted vendor. They offer an orange chicken dish, chicken fajita wraps, and salad, in addition to the usual stadium standards. Atmosphere 5 The Mullett Arena is a terrific place to watch college hockey, as the seats are very close to the ice and there are no bad seats. The club seating is located in one of 22 suites or 10 center ice concourse level loge boxes. The arena also has a party area above the concourse level called the Dos Equis Devil Deck. It is an open-air section with a bar and its food service. It also affords partygoers an unobstructed view of the entire arena Hockey at the collegiate level is much different from minor league or NHL hockey. There is a student section, cheerleaders, and much more of a college football-type of atmosphere. The arena does a great job of featuring the maroon and gold school colors of ASU and the three-pronged spear logo of the Sun Devils. The Arizona Coyotes of the NHL will be playing in Mullett Arena through the 2026 season while they construct their arena in another section of Tempe. The 5,000-seat capacity of the Mullett Arena makes it the smallest venue in the NHL. It also has driven ticket prices sky high, as the demand for tickets is much higher than the number of seats available. Indirectly, this has helped the college program, as fans get to enjoy hockey and the new arena at a much lower ticket price. Neighborhood 4 The Mullett Arena is located within the athletic complex of Arizona State University. Its neighbors include the Sun Devil Football Stadium, Desert Financial Basketball Arena, and the Joe Salleh Track and Field Complex. Mill Avenue is less than a mile west of Mullett Arena. It is full of restaurants, bars, and shops. The school has negotiated special rates for fans of the visiting teams at the Hilton Garden Inn Tempe and the Homewood Suites Tempe. Simply ask for the ASU Sun Devils rate. Fans looking for a place to wet their whistle should check out the Pedal Haus Brewery or the Devil’s Advocate Sports Grill, which are both within walking distance of the arena. Access 4 Mullett Arena is easily accessed by car or by using public transportation. From the north/ Airport/West Valley: Take the Loop 202 Freeway to Exit 7 (Scottsdale/Rural Road) Head south on Rural Road. Turn right at Rio Salado Parkway. Turn left at Packard Drive and the arena will be on your left. From the south: Take exit 7 off of the Loop 202 Freeway and go north onto Rural Road. Turn left at East 6th Street. Turn right at Packard Drive and the arena will be on your right. Mullett Arena is also accessible via Valley Metro Rail. Exit at the Veterans Way/College Avenue Station and follow the signs to Mullett Arena. Since the arena is on the ASU campus, many students choose to bike or skateboard to games. Storage lockers are available for these modes of transportation on the plaza outside of the arena. Parking for ASU hockey games is available at the Packard Parking structure just across the street from the arena. The garage opens for spectators three hours before the puck drop. The Mullett Arena doors open one hour before the puck drop, leaving you plenty of time to visit the concession areas before going to your seats. Fans 5 Now that the hockey program is located on campus, the student body is showing up for the games in much greater numbers. They are very vocal in their cheers for the home team and their jeers when the visiting team scores or is assessed time in the penalty box. The student section is located at the west end of the rink and is known as the home of the Mullett Maniacs or “the Inferno” section. Students can also sit in these seats for Coyote games, adding a distinctive collegiate flavor to an NHL contest. Another portion of the fanbase is adult hockey fans that could not get tickets to the NHL games due to the venue’s small capacity. They have adopted the college team to get their hockey fix. Return on Investment 3 Hockey tends to be more expensive than other sports to attend. This is due to the limited number of home dates on the schedule, and the expense of maintaining the ice surface. Mullett Arena has three price levels for tickets. The least expensive tickets are at the ends of the rink behind the goals and cost $40. Seats along the sides of the rink are $45. Seats at center ice are $150. Parking in the Packard Parking structure is $10 for prepaid parkers and $15 for gameday parking purchases. The fare for persons using Valley Metro Rail is $4 roundtrip. We’ve discussed the concession prices in depth in our food and beverage section. The arena concessions prices are more at an NHL level than a college facility level. Extras 3 In addition to Sun Devil ice hockey, Mullett Arena is also home to the ASU wrestling and gymnastics programs. The arena often distributes mullet wigs to the student section as a play on words on the arena’s name. Mullett Arena has ASU hockey memorabilia on display all around the venue. This includes sections featuring the team’s uniforms through the years, the ACHA National Championship trophy, and salutes to Sun Devil players who have gone on to play professionally. Final Thoughts While Mullett Arena has been panned as an NHL venue due to its small capacity and lack of NHL-level amenities, it shines as the college-level home of the Sun Devils. It offers a great gameday experience for both players and fans. The Inferno student section adds to the college vibe in the on-campus arena. I guess you could say I’m the (Sun) Devil’s advocate for this new venue!

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Bud Walton Arena 1270 W Leroy Pond Dr. Fayetteville, AR 72701 Arkansas Razorbacks website Bud Walton Arena website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 19,368 Woo Pig Sooie Hoops There is not much bigger in Arkansas after the football season is over than Arkansas Razorbacks basketball. Located in Fayetteville, the second largest city in the state with a population of just over 98,000, the University of Arkansas is the biggest attraction in the city. Founded in 1871 as Arkansas Industrial University, the University of Arkansas boasts a current enrollment of over 30,000. The Razorbacks have been playing basketball since 1923 and the peak of their success was the 1994 run through the Final Four to become National Champions. The Razorbacks currently play in the Southeastern Conference of the NCAA, where they have played since 1991, becoming the first domino to fall in the demise of the Southwest Conference. The home for the Razorbacks is Bud Walton Arena. Known as the Palace of Mid-America, Bud Walton Arena opened in 1993 and is widely accepted as one of the most difficult places to play for opponents. The court is named after National Championship coach Nolan Richardson and the arena is named after James “Bud” Walton, co-founder of Wal-Mart, who made a sizable donation for the construction of the arena. Nolan Richardson Court at Bud Walton Arena is one of the largest on-campus arenas in the country and provides a unique NCAA basketball experience that fans should consider getting. Food & Beverage 4 The circa nineties design of the Bud Walton Arena combined with the homogeneous design of the concession stands give the impression that the food selection is fairly pedestrian. Nothing could be further from the truth. A closer look will give fans an insight into the wide variety of concession items available. All of the expected items can be found at the arena, however, the selection goes far beyond just hot dogs and popcorn. Pulled pork, brisket, tacos, nachos, and a variety of pizza options are available. The stands all look the same, so some investigating is necessary. Coca-cola products are the soft drinks of choice at Bud Walton Arena. Bud Light and Michelob Ultra are the available beer selections. Atmosphere 4 The Bud Walton Arena is not an overly attractive Arena from the exterior. There is plenty of brown brick and there are materials that could have been used that are far less attractive. There just isn’t much to wow people walking by. It fits into the area of campus where it is located, with the other athletic facilities. Once inside the Bud Walton Arena, fans will immediately notice the concourses and their dedication to all things Razorbacks. Red and white are the dominant colors and there are plenty of items to keep the interest of fans doing some treasure hunting. There are large displays honoring significant players from specific eras. For example, the display from the nineties features Lee Mayberry, Todd Day, and Oliver Miller. The massive display commemorating the 1994 National Championship, including the massive retro Sports Illustrated cover is a spot fan will want to stop and take a look. When fans enter the seating bowl, the enormity of the facility will quickly become apparent. Two tiers of red seats that go right up to the floor provide excellent sight lines. The court runs from west to east and the best spot to get the perfect Center logo picture is from the south side. Above the center court, there is a state-of-the-art videoboard, fitting a major college program. On the east side, the basketball banners hang above the court. Individual honors for Sidney Moncrief, Corliss Williamson, Eddie Sutton, and Nolan Richardson hang to the left of the conference championship banners, and further along, the line is the 1994 National Champions banner. Banners for appearances in the 1941, 1945, 1978, 1990, 1994, and 1995 Final Fours flank the other banners. The gameday atmosphere is that of a typical, major college basketball program, turned up a notch. The band sits in the southeast corner and they are excellent. The band is the focus of the atmosphere, however, the Razorbacks do employ two gameday hosts who end up pushing a crowd that doesn’t require all that much pushing. The music played over the PA is unusually loud and not necessary at all. The Razorbacks have several mascots. Arkansas has a live mascot, Tusks, but it is unclear if it is at basketball games and it was not at the game reviewed. Costumed mascots Big Red, Sue E., Pork Chop, and Boss Hog can be found at games, and courtside, helping out with the cheerleaders and dance team. Overall, a lot is going on for an Arkansas basketball game Neighborhood 3 The University of Arkansas is located west of what would probably be considered Downtown Fayetteville. Heading to the east of the campus, which is rather large, would be where fans would want to head to find some pre or post-game spots for food or drink. Boulders and Brews, Brewski’s Draft Emporium, Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe, and Yancey’s are all decent options. For other sporting options, the University of Arkansas fields a full complement of athletic teams, chief of which is the football team, which plays on campus at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The baseball team plays at Baum Stadium at George Cole Field. The Razorbacks are often referred to as “The State of Arkansas’ Professional Team.” There is some Minor League Baseball that can be found in nearby Springdale, where the Northwest Arkansas Naturals play at Arvest Ballpark. As for other tourism opportunities, fans may want to take advantage of the focus on the outdoors in the areas surrounding Fayetteville or use the numerous hiking or biking trails. Checking out the live music venues along Dickson Street may be of interest also. For fans wishing to stay near campus, heading west will bring them to several hotel options, including the Best Western. Fans 5 When a college experience is being compared to a professional experience, you know it is the place to be! Arkansas fans are among the best in college basketball. Arkansas boasts the highest attendance in the SEC, which is saying something considering that blue-blood Kentucky is in the conference, and averages over 19,000 per game. The importance of Arkansas basketball is further underlined as the Razorbacks boast the second-highest average attendance in the entire NCAA, second only to Syracuse, who play in the massive JMA Wireless Dome, which also hosts Syracuse football. Not only do the fans come out in droves, but they are among the loudest and most intimidating in all of college basketball. This is shown through the “Woo Pig Sooie” chant, which can be heard throughout the game. Visiting fans won’t take very long to get a handle on the practice and soon they will be calling the hogs along with the natives. Access 4 Getting to Bud Walton Arena is not that difficult. The University of Arkansas campus is just east of I-49, the main artery in Fayetteville. A short jaunt down Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd will bring fans to the edge of campus. Parking can be found on campus or at nearby Fayetteville High School. Fans looking for public transit to the game can check out the Razorback Transit website for fares, schedules, and maps. Walking around Bud Walton Arena is not difficult, but can be a bit crowded at times. Washrooms are adequate for the crowd in attendance. With the state of security at major sporting events in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly urges fans to check the Bud Walton Arena and Arkansas Razorbacks websites for the most up-to-date security requirements and procedures including bag policies. Return on Investment 4 Once football season is over, Arkansas basketball is the biggest ticket in town. Tickets are often sold out and the secondary market is the place to look, where prices can assuredly be inflated. When preparing for this review, there were no seats available on the primary market for the majority of the season suggesting that all of the games were sold to season ticket holders and students. Concession prices are what fans would expect and parking will not go for an exorbitant amount. The return fans can expect is one of the best atmospheres in college basketball, with fans who turn out to support their team in greater numbers than their blueblood counterparts. Extras 4 An extra mark for the Walmart shareholders meetings being held at Bud Walton Arena. An extra mark for Arkansas is THE ticket in the state. An extra mark for being one of the toughest places to play basketball as an opponent. An extra mark for WOO PIG SOOIE Final Thoughts The Arkansas Razorbacks provides one of the best environments for college basketball in the country at Nolan Richardson Court at Bud Walton Arena. A trip to Fayetteville may not be high on the bucket list for basketball fans at first glance, however, when all of the factors are put together, it definitely should be! WOO PIG SOOIE!! ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 APG Federal Credit Union Arena 401 Thomas Run Rd Bel Air, MD 21015 Harford Fighting Owls website APG Federal Credit Union Arena website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 2,552 Home Of The Fighting Owl Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, MD, roughly in between Baltimore and the Delaware state line. It was founded in September 1957 as the “Harford Junior College.” In 1971 the name was changed to its current college designation. The Harford Fighting Owls play in NJCAA Division I, the highest athletic level for 2-year colleges, and are a part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. Having played in the antiquated Susquehanna Center gym since its 1968 opening, Harford wanted to update its facilities. So in 2011, the college began an extensive remodel of the facility. As part of the remodel was the addition of this 2,552-seat arena. Aberdeen Proving Grounds Federal Credit Union provided sponsorship in another surprising turn for this community college building. While sponsorships are the norm nowadays in the stadium world, a sponsor program for a small 2-year college building is pretty new on the landscape. The name is often shortened to the equally hard-to-say APGFCU Arena. The arena opened in late 2012 for the men’s and women’s basketball season, as well as a performance of the Harlem Globetrotters. Food & Beverage 2 There is a basic concession stand offering a small array of foods at a decent price. The arena does have a liquor license, but they will not sell those products during college basketball games. It is nice that there are some soda machines around the arena. Atmosphere 2 To be honest, the fan atmosphere is not very impressive. A community college audience gets a lot of family members and a few interested community members, but very few students. The arena staff may try to engage the fans with interactive games and giveaways. It is a basic atmosphere but fair for this level of play. Neighborhood 4 Harford Community College is in a suburban location and has plenty of free parking. The area is safe and has many restaurants nearby. Naughty Dogs is within walking distance and has a fun, cheap bar for pre and post-game refreshments, along with food such as pit beef. JD’s Smokehouse located across the street provides another option for food and drinks and some pretty good barbecue. If you are in the mood for Mexican, La Tolteca is located just a brief distance away and is a consistently good food place. Travel into Bel Air and there are multiple chain and local options. There are numerous options, such as MaGerks Pub & Grill, around the area. A quick drive in the other direction is Aberdeen. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe with Love is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. Super Chicken Rico is another choice with which you can’t go wrong. Venture into nearby Havre de Grace, and the options expand dramatically. Try the Tidewater Grille and Vineyard Wines. Washington Street Books and Bahoukas Beer MuZeum are all interesting shopping options in this quaint waterfront town. If you do go to Havre de Grace, make sure to stop at the elegant Concord Point Lighthouse. Fans 1 The team mascot, Screech The Owl, may also be in attendance and tries to get the crowd fired up. A community college audience gets a lot of family members and a few interested community members, but very few students. Access 4 Harford is located just a few miles off of I-95, one of the largest highways in the northeast. But State Route 22 can be very crowded with commuters traveling between Aberdeen Proving Grounds (APG) and central Harford County. APG has become a very large Army base after the last round of federal base realignment and closure activities. So leave some extra time getting to APGFCU Arena. Towson University in Northeastern Maryland is an extension campus of the well-established state university that is located across from the Harford campus. Return on Investment 4 APGFCU Arena is noted as being the largest arena in northeast Maryland. That is a somewhat silly pronouncement with Maryland being a relatively small state. But the arena is already seeing its schedule filled with various events and concerts. Basketball crowds will not be its bread and butter alone. The general admissions seats are the best value and are priced fairly. Most games are doubleheaders with the men’s and women’s teams so that adds to the value. Extras 3 The arena staff does do a good job of promotions. They treat your experience here as if you are at a major college. It would be very easy to not do this with the small crowd, but they never give up. The Chesapeake Center is the name for the rest of the building that the APG Federal Credit Union Arena is connected to. Check out the rest of this facility, as the 2011-2012 renovation changed the look and feel of this building dramatically. The rest of the Harford Community College campus is worth taking a look at. The college has added buildings and facilities numerous times over the past 15 years. A small rural college is now a major suburban educational institution. Final Thoughts This is a pretty impressive facility for a community college. It will be interesting to see if other colleges of this size try to follow suit. The product on the court is pretty good, especially the high-scoring women’s team and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference offers some good and quality competition. Just don’t expect to see the largest crowds around, as that is not likely to change any time soon, even with a fine facility.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 UFCU Disch-Falk Field 1300 East MLK Blvd Austin, TX 78702 Texas Longhorns website UFCU Disch-Falk Field website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 6.649 Texas Longhorns – UFCU Disch-Falk Field The Texas Longhorns have a rich and storied history on the baseball diamond. Since taking the field in 1894 the Longhorns have appeared in the College World Series (CWS) a record 38 times, been runners-up six times, and have won the whole thing six times (in 1949, 1950, 1975, 1983, 2002, and 2005), tied for the second most ever. From 1997-2016 Texas was led by legendary Head Coach Augie Garrido, owner of the record for most wins in NCAA baseball history. A host of all-time greats have suited up in Austin on the 40 acres, including Roger Clemens, Burt Hooten, Keith Moreland, Greg Swindell, and Huston Street. Since 1975 Texas has played its games at UFCU Disch-Falk Field, named for two other legendary coaches in Longhorn history, Billy Disch and Bibb Falk. Over the years the stadium has gone through numerous renovations to keep the stadium as up-to-date as possible; this included upgrading the video board/jumbotron in the left-center field, adding new seats, and upgrading the concession stands. With its brick façade and prime location in downtown Austin, the Disch is one of the best spots for college baseball in the country. Read on to learn what has made it such a popular stop on the sports landscape. Food & Beverage 3 When it comes to concessions, the offerings at Disch-Falk Field are pretty much standard fare. There are five concession stands on the main concourse between home plate and third base. These spots – all contactless – offer up traditional hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, soft pretzels, popcorn, bottled and fountain sodas, and beer. There is also a full-scale bar behind the third baseline, selling beer, wine, spirits, mixed drinks, and pre-packaged (i.e. canned) cocktails from Deep Eddy Vodka. Also along the third baseline is a stand offering up Quizno’s Subs – selling a pared-down menu of pre-made subs, chips, and cookies, it’s a nice change of pace from your regular ballgame food. The ballpark has some local flare, as well, in its concessions, with one area specializing in tacos and Mexican street corn. Also, as another nice change of pace, local food trucks can set up shop in a special area behind the stands on the third baseline. One of the main highlights for me must be the aforementioned contactless ordering and self-checkout kiosks; these can speed up the process and get folks in and out to minimize missing any of the game. Atmosphere 5 The Disch flat-out has a great atmosphere that adds to the overall enjoyment of the game day experience. The outside façade gives it the gravitas of a true baseball cathedral, and banners line the walkway highlighting the six CWS championships. Near the main entrance, a series of four busts stand to watch – each depicts one of the legendary head coaches in Longhorn baseball history: Disch, Falk, Garrido, and Cliff Gustafson, a.k.a. Coach Gus. The recently deceased Coach Gus was honored with the naming of the Cliff Gustafsson Pavilion in the right field, along with a giant Longhorn logo with his name on it emblazoned on the grass in the center field. Inside the stadium, there are team stores behind first base, for fans to pick up all their team gear. In addition, lining the wall underneath the luxury boxes is the de facto ring of honor, which highlights many of the names I mentioned earlier, and their retired numbers. The impossibly green field turf of the outfield just looks glorious when paired with the omnipresent highlights of burnt orange throughout the Disch. There isn’t a bad seat in the house, and quite a few of the general admission seats lie underneath a covered area, which comes in mighty handy during the dog days of summer. Neighborhood 4 UFCU Disch-Falk Field lies across Interstate 35 within eyesight of but just set apart from, the main campus of the University of Texas, a.k.a. the 40 acres. With that said, it is still smack dab in the middle of downtown Austin. The state capital has a multitude of activities to keep anyone engaged – from outdoor enthusiasts and live music aficionados to history buffs and cinephiles, Austin has you covered. The Disch is located right across I-35 from the Longhorn's shiny new basketball arena, Moody Center. The baseball and basketball seasons do overlap, so if you plan your visit right, you could double up on games. It is also in the same athletics compound as Red & Charline McCombs Field, Texas Tennis Center, and the Jamail Texas Swimming Center, home of Texas softball, tennis, and swimming and diving, respectively. There is also the chance to catch some of these games/events if you plan your visit accordingly. In terms of other attractions, spring, and summer (when the heart of college baseball is played) is a fantastic times to visit the most visible natural attraction in Austin, Lady Bird Lake. Named in honor of native Texan and former first lady Lady Bird Johnson, the reservoir encompasses 480 acres of real estate in the city; it is a favorite spot for kayakers and paddleboarders. Visitors can also take boat tours across the lake, which is a prime spot to see the Congress Avenue Bridge Mexican freetail bat colony that is famous in the area. One quirky attraction that plays into the city’s motto to “Keep Austin Weird” is the eponymous Museum of the Weird. This hodgepodge collection of kitschy and schlocky artifacts is a fun, breezy way to spend some time before or after a Longhorns game, and perfectly plays into the city’s overall aesthetic. For dining options, my favorite spot in the city – which is also the oldest continually operating restaurant in Texas – is Scholz Garten. Opened one year after the close of the Civil War, Scholz Garten embodies old-world German cuisine. Serving up sausages, schnitzels, sandwiches, and more (the jägerschnitzel is my favorite) along with German beer in the beer garden, this place is dripping with history and deliciousness. If you come to south and/or central Texas, at some point Tex-Mex really should be part of your diet. Juan in a Million, in addition to having a great punny name, is also an old-school joint serving up good Tex-Mex cuisine. With enchiladas, fajitas, chalupas, flautas, and some of the largest breakfast tacos in the state, Juan in a Million plays the hits and does them well. In terms of lodging, being as popular as Austin is, there is a multitude of options for you. There aren’t any within walking distance of the ballpark, but there are quite a few that are a short drive away. This includes DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin - University Area and Frances Modern Inn. Whatever your budget, you’ll be able to find something to suit your needs. Fans 4 When attending games at the Disch, depending on the opponent, you are more than likely going to be awash in a sea of burnt orange. Averaging just under 6,800 fans a game, it is virtually a sellout every time out for the Longhorns. Fans are lined up outside the stadium along the outfield fences in a pseudo tailgate that lasts the entire game. The fans are loud, they’re vocal, they’re decked out in burnt orange, and they make games a lot of fun – the Longhorns faithful greatly add to the energy at the ballpark. Access 4 Austin is an hour and a half north of San Antonio on I-35, three and a half hours south of Dallas/Fort Worth, and three hours west of Houston. UFCU Disch-Falk Field, which as mentioned is in the middle of downtown Austin, is also only 15 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. CapMetro, Austin’s public transportation system, runs buses and trains from all over the city, and there are even bus stops out in front of the Disch if you choose not to drive. If you are driving in, the baseball stadium has its dedicated parking garage next door. The cost is $8 per car if purchased ahead of time online, or $10 the day of. Return on Investment 5 Single-game general admission tickets for Longhorn baseball start at $14 per person, which is truly a bargain considering the caliber of opponent that comes to Austin each season. Premium seating – such as those directly behind home plate – will cost you a bit more. However, it still pales in comparison to what you’ll spend on other sports. With the low cost of parking and relatively favorable pricing at the concession stands, you and your wallet are sure to appreciate your time in Austin at UFCU Disch-Falk Field. Extras 3 There is not much in the way of Extras at Longhorn baseball games. Unlike other sports, baseball doesn’t lend itself well to a lot of the accouterments of other sports. Also, because it says “Texas” across their jerseys and with all that implies, there aren’t any of the types of festivities or games or whatnot that you’ll typically find at minor league baseball games, for example. They do bring some of the school’s traditional pomp and circumstance out to the ballpark, however, which includes the Texas Cowboys manning the Longhorns cannon “Smokey” – the Cowboys fire off the venerable cannon after every Texas run scored. Also on hand for games is the Texas mascot, Hook ‘Em, who can be seen patrolling the stands and the main concourse interacting with fans, throwing up the Hook ‘Em Horns sign, and of course, posing for countless pictures. Final Thoughts I probably should have mentioned this at the beginning of the review, but in the interest of full disclosure, I must note that I am a lifelong Texas Longhorns fan. For me, heading up to any game on the 40 acres is truly something special. With that said, I think anyone who is a fan of sports – especially baseball – will enjoy themselves at UFCU Disch-Falk Field. It is a cathedral of the sport, draped in history and excellence. The atmosphere is tremendous, and Austin is a fun city to visit. Catch a game at the Disch when you can, and Hook ‘Em Horns! ------ Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Gill Center Gymnasium 99 Stadium Dr Westminster, MD 21157 Green Terror website Gill Center Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 2,000 Home of the Green Terror McDaniel College is a private four-year liberal arts college in Westminster, Maryland. It was established in 1867 and until 2002 was known as Western Maryland College. The name of the college did not reflect the geographic placement of the school as it is not located in the western part of the state. Instead, it was named for the Western Maryland Railroad, which shared some common board members. The new name of the college honors alumnus William Roberts McDaniel and his 65-year association with the school. Westminster is located 30 miles northwest of Baltimore and is a far suburb of that city. Over 160,000 people live in the area and the surrounding area of Carroll County, Maryland. The college has a strong history in its football program, but the basketball team has not been noted nearly as much for its history. The unique Green Terror’s name stems from how teams would describe the Western Maryland players as “Terrors” on the field. The name stuck and since 1923 they have been known as the Green Terror. McDaniel College plays as a member of the Division III Centennial Conference against schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Ursinus College, and Franklin & Marshall College. Gill Gymnasium is the newer version of an older Gill Gym that burned down in the 1990s. This gym is located next to that older facility. Food & Beverage 1 Food or drinks are prohibited in the gym itself. In the lobby area, there is a snack bar that may be open at some times, although it was not at the game I attended. There are also drink and snack machines available in that lobby. Atmosphere 2 This is a large gym that is divided in half. There is a small simple grandstand that divides up this larger arena. There are simple grandstands on the other three sides of the court. There was no band or cheer group, although a decent amount of students were there for a Saturday afternoon game. The sound system is particularly bad. Pretty much everything the announcer says comes out as gibberish. Neighborhood 4 Westminster, being a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a pretty traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located nearby to campus and is one of the best family-type restaurants around and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 2 As with most small college gyms, the bulk of the fans tends to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. Student attendance could always be better, but I was impressed by the number that was there. This was a Saturday afternoon game and there was a fair number of students at the game. Access 4 Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster and it stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. Return on Investment 5 Attending a Green Terror game is free. It is incredible that for absolutely nothing you can attend a game with such a good atmosphere. Extras 3 Make sure to make some time to view the plaques about the school’s athletic history located in the lobby. I am not sure why some of the trophies are located way up in a manner that you can’t read or look at. Final Thoughts McDaniel College is a great place to watch a game and since the cost is nothing, it is worth a stop in.

Photos by Bart Wilhelm, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Ronken Field at Karras Park 2501 S Grange Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57105 Sioux Falls Sunfish website Ronken Field website Year Opened: 1992 Renovated: 2013 Capacity: 500 Sioux Falls Sunfish In 2021, the Expedition League expanded into the Sioux Falls, South Dakota market and the Sioux Falls Sunfish were born. They play their home at Ronken Field at Karras Park, which is also the home of the 2018 NCAA Division-II Champion Augustana University Vikings. The sunfish, or bluegill, is a popular panfish throughout the Sioux Falls region and all of South Dakota, hence the team name. Food & Beverage 3 The food menu is fairly limited at Karras Park. The main concession is actually outside the park gate down the first baseline. Their menu contains pulled pork nachos ($6), a quarter pound hot dog ($4), and pizza slices for $3. Popcorn and candy are also available. Bottled water and soda are $3 and Monster energy drinks are $4. This concession stand building is also where the stadium restrooms are located. There’s also a Taco Cart underneath the stands to the first base side of home plate. They sell walking tacos for $6 and this is also where the beer is sold in the stadium. Most cans of beer are $5 for 16 ounces (Budweiser, Busch Light, White Claw and Bud Light Seltzers). They also have a couple 12 ounce craft beer cans from nearby Remedy Brewing Company for $6 (I’d recommend the Queen Bee Imperial Honey Crème Ale if it’s available). Atmosphere 2 There wasn’t much of a crowd on the night I visited. Roughly 75 people. I’m told that the crowds are around a hundred on the weekends. The team is still getting word out of the team to the locals. They’re also having trouble getting some promotions. They were denied fireworks nights because they’re in a residential area and, the college won’t let them have Bark in the Park Nights where people can bring their dogs. Most of the seating is right behind home plate. There is one row of stadium-style seats followed by a few rows of wooden bleacher seats. The bleachers appear to be fairly new. The problem is, there’s no shade. If the sun is out, you’re in it. There are also some metal bleachers down the first baseline past the dugout. Two little patio table with chairs are also situated right to the left of home plate and provide an interesting field-level view of the game. They’re right on top of the action, but again, the sun is a factor. The scoreboard in right centerfield is a basic score/runs/hits/errors/outs/batter number scoreboard. The playing field is all turf on the infield but switches to grass in the outfield. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark is located on the campus of Augustana University. While there is parking nearby, there’s nothing really within walking distance of the stadium. Downtown Sioux Falls is a couple miles north. There are plenty of local restaurants downtown to suit your taste. I personally had a delicious Shepherd’s Pie at The Blarney Stone Pub. The major tourist attraction in Sioux Falls is Falls Park where you can see the actual waterfalls that the city is named for. It’s a short, 10-minute drive from the stadium. Sioux Falls is a fairly decent sized city so there are plenty of hotel and motel options in town. I tend to stay as cheaply as possible and I found the Econo Lodge for right around $60. Fans 2 I’d love to give the fans a higher grade, but there just weren’t many there. The Sunfish haven’t really caught on in the area yet. The ones who were there were into the game for the most part, but I’d estimate only about half the crowd stuck around until the end of the game on the night I was there (again, the sun on a warm night could be a factor). Access 3 The park is fairly easy to get to. It’s located just north of I-229 which stems off of I-29 and I-80. The physical address of the park is 2501 S Grange Ave. There is a free parking lot that is also used for the nearby football field and the gymnasium. In the unlikely event that the lot is full, there is some nearby street parking available. From the lot, you’ll walk down the third base side of the field, and that’s where the ticket gate is. All seats are $8. Return on Investment 3 There aren’t a lot of frills to Karras Park, but for a reasonable price of $8, you can watch college baseball players put on a good show. The beer prices are also quite reasonable for a baseball game. Extras 0 It’s baseball and nothing more. If it’s sunny, you’ll get to work on your tan. Final Thoughts The Expedition League added three new teams for the 2021 season. They’re trying to expand and add several more. Sioux Falls is currently the largest city in the league’s footprint, but the fans just haven’t caught on yet. There is also competition from the Sioux Falls Canaries of the independent American Association. Hopefully, the attendance will improve and the team can stick around.

Photos by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 ECTB Stadium 1008 S Howard St. Allentown, PA 18103 Allentown Railers website ECTB Stadium website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 4,600 The Greatest Ballpark on Dirt There are a great collection of minor league baseball ballparks in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania that include Limeport Stadium, Coca-Cola Park and Quakertown Memorial Park. A visitor would have a nice little history lesson on ballpark construction if visiting for a few days; however, there is another ballpark that may strike your fancy while visiting the area – ECTB Stadium in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The stadium is home to the Allentown Railers of the Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League and brings a little life to the vapid facility during the summer months. ECTB Stadium, formerly known as Bicentennial Park when it opened in 1976, was built on the site of Fairview Field which had been home to various minor league teams in the city since 1930. It was also the home to the Allentown Ambassadors of the Northeast League (now the Can-Am League) from 1997-2003. The stadium has seen better days, but there are improvements currently underway that should breath a fresh new breath of life into the vapid facility. The 4,600 seat stadium is rather large for the league and features an all dirt, softball style infield. However, with the right attitude, this quirky little baseball facility might be worth watching a game in the near future – time will tell. Food & Beverage 1 There is a small stand located underneath the grandstand and facing out on the main concourse. There are only seven items on the rather crude cardboard menu cutout that adorns the windows – cheeseburgers, hot dogs, sunflower seeds, pretzels, sport drinks, soda and candy. The prices are inexpensive and the hot dogs taste quite good. The hot dogs are only $2 and cheeseburgers are $3. Atmosphere 2 Could the atmosphere be a little better at ECTB Stadium? Perhaps, but the ballpark is quite grandiose by ACBL standards. The largest stadium in the league looks like it would be be perfect fit in larger summer leagues such as the Northwoods or Prospect Leagues. The ballpark does feature a few intriguing quirks – perhaps its all dirt infield that would be akin to softball, because it was converted to a softball field during the country’s bicentennial. The seating is made of plastic and feature bucket seats behind the first few rows of the backstop and backless seating throughout the rest of the stadium. The seating is up close and personal to the action. If it was not for the large fence screen behind home plate, you could brush off the dirt from a player sliding into home. There is a lot of room to stretch out, catch a foul ball or simply reminisce about old school baseball. The outfield fence was renovated a few seasons ago and looks quite stunning, the center field light is in play and a simple electronic scoreboard resides in left field; however, it was not in operation when I attended the game (I was told that it needed to be repaired). A large net looms over the right field wall for protection of fly balls landing against the residential homes across the street. The setting in the south side of Allentown is also a nice nod to ballparks of the past. Incidentally, they have been playing baseball at this site for almost 85 years. There are no mascots, major announcements, promotions or gimmicks. There is a large collection of souvenirs with the Railers’ logo on it and some of it looks pretty good – its not the cheap stuff you find sometimes. The main grandstand use to have tarp wrapped around when the Ambassadors played minor league baseball here, but it has been removed and the seats are now exposed. This is not aesthetically pleasing and a dash of color or name of the stadium would do wonders to its image. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is situated in a residential neighborhood, not far from the I-78 exit where a few great places to eat exist. Queen City Diner is open 24-hours and offers generous portions at reasonable prices. If you are not from the area, diner food is a must to have after the game. Rodizio Grill is a Brazilian barbecue restaurant where one would have to come hungry and not expect to eat for a few days. Steak, chicken, pork and lamb are all brought out to your table. It is a nice experience to say the least. Fans 1 There were not a lot of them here at the game, in fact, there was not a lot of cheering from the ones who were in the grandstands at the day of this review. When your crowds are small in a vast ballpark, viewing the game can feel like a dirge, but the Railers have a great product and winning attitude. I am sure if there were few promotions here and there, a few more fans would find their way back to the stadium. Access 4 Arriving to the stadium is the best part – it is quick and easy. All you have to do is take exit 57 off of I-78 and proceed north on Lehigh Street for 1.5 miles and the stadium is on your left. The parking is free and plentiful in the stadium’s lot and access is easy to get in or out of after the game. Return on Investment 3 The ticket prices are $5 a person and kids 8 and under are admitted free of charge. This is a small price to pay to watch college kids hone their skills with the wooden bat during the months of June and July. Extras 1 The roofs of houses behind the right field wall adds a nice touch to this quirky little ball park that features high walls, a light tower in play in center field and seats close enough to tap the umpires back. If this was any other league, you may see some improvements with not only the stadium itself, but with the game day experience. Thankfully the public can still catch a game and perhaps the game day experience will improve in time; unfortunately, time will tell. Final Thoughts Lehigh Valley has a nice collection of ballparks to visit during the summer and ECTB has seen better days and the only allure might just be that it is still housing baseball in Allentown. Before Coca-Cola Field, this was where professional baseball was held, but the times have changed. If you have the time, it may be worth your pleasure to take in a game.

Photos by Blair Hughes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Campbelltown Sports Stadium Pembroke Rd Leumeah, NSW 2560 Australia Wests Tigers website Campbelltown Sports Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 20,000 GO WEST of Sydney Campbelltown Sports Stadium outside of Sydney, Australia comprises one of New South Wales's premier football stadiums and an international standard athletics facility. This is a ground that brings back the good old days of rugby league and takes any fan back to the retro glory days due to its homely local suburban footy feels. Campbelltown Stadium, formerly called Orana Park is a multi-use stadium in Leumeah, New South Wales, Australia, and is owned by the Campbelltown City Council. It is one of three home grounds for the Wests Tigers Rugby League Football Club, who are a side merged from Western Suburbs Magpies and Balmain Tigers who compete in the National Rugby League (NRL). The stadium has a capacity of 20,000 and is well known amongst locals due to having a functional purpose in the lives of most young Campbelltownians as it doubled as the local athletics track for school carnivals. The original Orana Park stadium opened in the 1960s and was redeveloped ahead of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. The stadium has played host to Wests Tigers, Newtown Jets, and Western Sydney Wanderers W-League Women’s team games as well as the old black and white Wests Magpies up until they folded in 1999. Since 2000, this ground has been used on an occasional basis by the Wests Tigers, with four of their twelve annual home games played here, by their stadium deals. The Western Suburbs Magpies junior teams and Ron Massey Cup side also play most of their home games at Campbelltown. Food & Beverage 3 The venue is only open sporadically for events therefore food options are quite limited to traditional ‘footy’ stadium grub. However, there are a few interesting additions on offer for fans. The food served here is traditional in the sense of pies, burgers, chips, and hot dogs, and the offerings are very limited due to the scarcity of major events. Food at various outlets does not look very fresh or appetizing, but there are a variety of interesting options that make up for the general snack bar foods. The stadium has a variety of food trucks serving donuts, coffees, ice cream cones, and slushies which prove very popular, especially on a hot day. During a recent visit, the visiting team was the NZ Warriors, so the stadium was offering traditional New Zealand food in ‘Hangi’ which went down as a treat with fans. It was a unique offering that really impressed fans of all ages and both teams and drove home a positive family vibe through the community spirit of food. The stadium offers a blend of typical soft drinks from Coca-Cola products as well as water, Powerade, spirits, and beers including Cascade Light, VB’s, and Carlton Mid-Strength brews along with both white and red wine. There is a variety of food and bar stands throughout the venue and lines are short at each. It’s great that when you buy a beer here (average price $6-$7) you can get it in an ice-cold can rather than having to have it poured into a plastic cup. Servers at each food and drink concession are quick and attentive and considering they do not work here very often, the lines move well and people are served quickly. There is a bit of a flow issue in the Eastern grandstand due to the venue design whereby fans block the aisles while waiting for food and drink, but this is a difficult thing for the venue to manage. Atmosphere 4 There is nothing quite like experiencing a game of rugby league here in the heartland where it is very true to rugby league’s roots. The seats are all close to the action, families of fans are brimming with smiles due to the buzz of a great day at the footy, and it’s an experience that a sports fan needs to see in the flesh. The fan engagement is a step above previous years and fans are happy here due to the pumping atmosphere and ability to feel more apart of the game than at other massive venues. The stadium comprises plenty of nice vantage points to take in the game in its typical four-ends football stadium design. From the family (alcohol-free) hill where kids and families can run around with footies to the Western and Eastern grandstands, this is a stadium in the old style. While the stadium does not offer a great deal of weather protection, it makes up for it with seating that is very close to the action, so much so that you can hear the plays from the players from 20 rows back in any of the stands. Seats and the general stadium outlay are a bit dated due to not being used frequently however they are all clean, adequate in size, and comfortable. There are no cup holders or special features as this is very much ground with a considerable history, but the field shows no sign of age as the grass is pristine and glistens in the afternoon sun. The stadium has a large screen on the family hill which showcases game highlights, stats, and replays and sits above families so when a try decision comes it’s always a good sight to see kids jumping around under the screen and on TV. The ground announcers do a great job of pumping up the fans with music, trivia, and fan chants. As a good deal to entice new members, the club even offers a game day membership that gives fans the option of paying about $3 more than a standard ticket to get an invite to the after-game party at the local leagues club as well as a $10 merchandise voucher and a ticket to the game. Overall, the Tigers have greatly improved their fan engagement in previous seasons and offer a great family day out at Campbelltown Stadium with a variety of free and fun activations for NRL fans. While you could sit undercover in the Eastern stand and pay a little more for that option, the best spot here is to pull up a spot on the hill and revel in the atmosphere. Bring a picnic rug and grab some food and take in the action from the breezy location on the family hill. Most areas of the ground would be open to rain in wet weather so the East and West grandstands would offer cover but fans would be wise to sit as close as possible to the action to feel the crunch of the tackles and feel like they’re more part of the game. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located about 50 minutes or 45 km via train from the central Sydney CBD. However, it has easy access to main transportation hubs and the train station is a one-minute walk from the stadium. The neighborhood is low on attractions or shops, but it is served by a bottle shop, a local corner store selling game snacks, as well as the local leagues club which is directly next to the stadium. The stadium is located in a suburban area and therefore there are no hotels or accommodation facilities nearby due to the largely residential area. However, regular trains and buses run directly back to the Sydney CBD meaning most fans who are traveling from other places will stay here as the cost of a train ticket is only $8 return on weekends. The area where the stadium is located in Leumeah is a safe part of town due to the proximity of local transport, restaurants, lighting, security and policing, and residential housing. Options for food are limited, but there is a local Thai and pizza restaurant right outside the stadium along with a local pub all of which serve traditional and Australian-inspired dishes. There is an abundance of ATMs both inside and outside the stadium so fans can purchase food and drinks. Most places here and inside the ground accept cashless pay-pass payments. The stadium area is serviced by a local sports leagues club which offers food, pokies, drinks, and live sports as well as the Leumeah Club hotel which offers a similar vibe. These venues are inclusive and offer a local flavor of entertainment and are both worth investigating for a pre-match feed or drink. Fans 4 Wests Tigers fans are passionate rugby league supporters and while Wests Magpies fans are prominent from the old-school retro jerseys on show, this is very much a group of fans who support the merged team through thick and thin. Tigers fans have often gone through periods of unsuccessful campaigns, but the 2016 campaign has seen the team win back-to-back opening games and the buzz and excitement in the air from Tigers fans is thrilling to see. As the fans have to watch the Tigers play games across three ‘home’ grounds in Sydney, the four games per year at Campbelltown Stadium are special occasions and fans young and old come out of the woodwork to come back to one of the spiritual homes of rugby league in Sydney. Along with this, the die-hard members who come here and to the other games get a real kick out of this stadium due to the no-nonsense retro and suburban vibes of the venue. There’s a certain type of romance about seeing a team like the Tigers play in a classic old venue without all the new ‘connected stadium’ bells and whistles and it appears that many fans appreciate coming here to see the team play. Standard attendance for the Wests Tigers games averages about 10,000-15,000. As the venue is not used frequently, many fans will come here only for these four games of the year. Many fans are season-long members and will attend all of the Tigers games throughout the year. The fans here are loud and proud and passionate throughout the game. Due to the high level of play and outstanding performance which has at times been missing from the Tigers, the fans here are considerably louder and more engaged than in previous matches. Chants of Tigers, Tigers, Tigers ring out at various points in the game while the fan engagement activities set the tone for a fulfilling day out for families and fans. Access 4 Campbelltown Stadium is serviced both by trains and buses and offers limited parking inside the stadium as well as in adjacent streets, however, the best way to get here is via train which on a weekend only costs around $8 return and is a relatively short 45-60 minute ride with fellow fans to the ground. The ground is fairly accessible for people with disabilities, but it would be advised to contact the venue in advance to check regarding the best seating options for wheelchairs and to secure a space in advance. If not, venue staff here both from the stadium and Tigers are very approachable and friendly and are on hand to deal with poor crowd behavior and special requests. The local Leumeah train station is located at O’Sullivan Road, Leumeah, and is a one-minute walk from the stadium and about a 500m walk to the main entrance. Tickets for adults cost around $8-$10 return on weekends and offer a fast speed service from Sydney Central or Town Square train stops to the game. Attendants at the train stop in the city are very helpful and will show you how to purchase an ‘Opal’ card, which is an even cheaper way to get to the game. Some games offer free train travel with your tickets, however, for most fans, the easiest way is to just get on a train heading to the stadium on either the T2 or T5 line. The closest airport is about 45 minutes away and this train line conveniently goes direct to the airport. Accessibility is good here as there are lifts and ramp access at the station. Parking can be done around the ground but should be avoided due to the presence of ticket officers who will fine nonresidents on match days. Parking inside the stadium is very limited and is around $20 per car and needs to be prearranged as it is a very small car park. There is only one entrance to the ground which fans will see if they come in via the train station or the yellow footbridge near the tennis centre on the other side. Security is tight and even though you’re allowed to bring bags in, they will be checked. No alcohol is allowed and smoking is banned inside the stadium however there are allocated smoking areas. Tickets cost around $25-$60 with fewer fees and can be paperless for members or purchased at the gate. It is very easy to walk up and buy a ticket, but the lines can get long so it is advised to get to the ground before kick-off to secure a ticket quickly and get into the stadium. The stadium can be tight in parts when the ground starts to fill up and fans line up to get food and drinks, particularly in the Eastern stand where lines push right back to the start of the aisles. This is due to the makeup of the venue and impacts the flow of fans as they walk through this area. The rest of the ground is open and easy to walk around and is worth doing just that as there is a lot to take in. A general admission seat on the hill or the family area is a good cheap albeit non-undercover option that is still nice and close to the action. Return on Investment 4 If you’re looking for a world-class connected stadium experience then this is not for you, however, if you are looking to harken back to the good old days of rugby league and what sports was all about in the 80s and 90s, but of course with a bit of a modern touch, then there is absolutely nothing quite like a trip to Campbelltown Stadium for a Wests Tigers NRL match. Put simply, this is a must-do on any sports fan’s list as there is nothing quite as unique and exciting as a game of football in the burbs. For $25 a ticket, the ROI here is well worth your money. Nothing can compete with being this close to the action and buzz of the game, the exceptional fan engagement, and free giveaways to all fans as well as the positive fan experience that presents itself here at Campbelltown Stadium. This is not a modern fan experience that is all the rage around the world at the moment, but something that will make sports fans of all ages appreciates an authentic day at the rugby league. One of the ticket promotions that the Wests Tigers offer new fans is the option to sign up for a game day membership where they pay $30 and receive a ticket, a $10 merchandise voucher, the opportunity to be counted as part of the club’s official membership tally and access to the after game members-only fan party. A good deal considering general admission tickets are $30 anyway. Extras 5 The Wests Tigers control the fan engagement on the day and it is an exceptional fan experience here. The Tigers have just started running themed event days for their matches including ‘multicultural’ themed days. The fan engagement consists of free posters for fans which they are then encouraged to hold up before kick-off. This makes for a great sight and deeply connects the fans in the stadium, not to mention families and fans being happy with taking home a large free team poster. Fans can also pick up free food samples, and free Wests Tigers magnets, play in the Tigers fan zone, have their picture taken with the Tiger cheer squad (not to mention the young Tiger cheer squad), participate in street art workshops and enter competitions for Tigers gear. The food offering of having a traditional Kiwi ‘Hangi’ available for fans was a great bit of fan experience excellence that was a favourite amongst fans. It will be interesting to see what else the Tigers do for fans throughout the season on these themed game days. If the first is anything to go by with all of the fan engagement activities then the Tigers will be leading the way regarding the fan experience in the NRL. Final Thoughts As the title says, GO WEST of Sydney and experience local suburban rugby league footy in the essence of the good old days. Wear your old retro jerseys, grab a pie and beer, and have a laugh on the hill as there truly is something here for every fan.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 AAMI Park Olympic Blvd Melbourne VIC 3001 Australia Melbourne Storm website AAMI Park website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 30,050 Storm Front in Melbourne AAMI Park is located within the same Melbourne sports precinct as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Melbourne Park (including Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena). The stadium opened in 2010 with a capacity of 30,050 and largely serves the Melbourne Storm (NRL), Melbourne Rebels (Super Rugby), and Melbourne City (A-League). Historically Melbourne’s winter sporting landscape was dominated by AFL, which of course is played on an oval-shaped playing service. However, as rugby league and rugby union began to expand their competitions, along with the explosion of the A-League, it became clear that Melbourne required a purpose-built rectangular stadium. Indeed, AAMI Park was a key selling point of the Melbourne Rebel’s bid to join Super Rugby. Since opening, the stadium has hosted international rugby league, rugby union, and soccer. The distinctive bio-frame domed roof is a unique architectural feature and provides cover for most of the seats, while still allowing natural light through to the field. The Melbourne Storm represented new territory for the National Rugby League (NRL) as the first-ever Victorian-based team when they joined the competition in 1998. At the time a flurry of new teams was formed as the game rushed to nationalize, particularly as News Ltd and the Australian Rugby League fought for control of the administration of the sport. In the end, the Storm has been the only non-traditional market team to survive. While they may have struggled for traction in a market saturated by AFL, the Storm have quickly established themselves as a powerhouse on the field. They have won four grand finals in their short history, however, only two of their premierships are officially recognised. A systematic and secret rorting of the salary cap saw the NRL strip the club of the 2007 and 2009 premierships; an unprecedented severity of punishment in Australian sport. Despite this, the club has rebounded and is led by several of the top players in the league. After moving between the old Olympic Park and Etihad Stadium, the club has found a permanent home at AAMI Park. Food & Beverage 3 There are no real surprises when visiting the concession stands at AAMI Park. The majority of food is confined to mass-prepared hot items such as hot dogs ($6.50), hot chips ($5.80), meat pie ($4.10), large sausage rolls ($5.00), fish and chips ($11.00), chicken and chips ($10.00), beef burgers ($10.50), chicken burgers ($10.50), and dim sims ($5.80). There is also a stand-alone German sausage tent which is the only specialty item available. The cheapest alcoholic beverage available at AAMI Park is a light beer for $7.40 (light in alcohol content), with mid-strength at $7.60 and premium mid at $8.40. Wine ($9.50), cider ($10.50), and pre-mixed spirits ($10.80) are also available. Soft drinks cost $5.40, while carry trays are the usual $1.00, so be sure to reuse them. In general, the service, quality, and variety all rate as average, and the prices are certainly no reason to increase the rating in this section. Atmosphere 4 This modern stadium has a design that offers great views, no matter where you sit – the stadium operators boast of the fact that there are no pillars or supporting concrete beams, resulting in obstruction-free viewing throughout the venue. Likewise, the steep stands keep spectators feeling close to the action, even in the upper deck areas. There are video screens in two corners of the stadium which are adequate, however, I found the score display to be a little small. There is a good feel outside the stadium, with an additional fan zone experience to be found in neighbouring Gosch’s Paddock. The pillars on the lower level concourse feature large pictures of past and present Storm greats. The enclosed stadium roof helps generate an intimate experience that maximizes crowd noise, and AAMI Park also features several environmentally-friendly design features to minimize energy consumption. Neighbourhood 5 One of the strengths of stadium policies in Victoria is accessibility and a centralised location. AAMI Stadium is well within walking distance of the CBD, with a pathway leading directly to the sports precinct at East Melbourne. Given its proximity to the centre of a global city like Melbourne, there are countless options for pre or post-match entertainment. The southern capital is known for being trendy and well-presented; the coffee is great and there is a thriving laneway culture of bars and restaurants. The Southbank area is also a good place to head, with the Crown Casino nearby. In addition, in the opposite direction from AAMI Park in Richmond, which also boasts a bustling nightlife scene. Melbourne also has a wide selection of craft beer bars and craft beer on tap at pretty much every bar, so if good beer is your thing then you will not be disappointed. A must would be Slowbeer in Richmond, as well as Holliava which is quite close to AAMI Park. In terms of attractions and entertainment, there are a variety of nightclubs and bars in the area which are worth investigating. From the rock and roll music venue The Corner Hotel to the rollicking 9T4 bar, there is a bar for any fan. Melbourne Airport is around a 40-minute taxi ride from AAMI Park, and while there are numerous suitable accommodation options within the CBD, the Pullman on the Park is across the road from the sports precinct, offering views of the MCG. Fans 4 In choosing their colours, the Melbourne Storm always intended to choose the traditional navy and white of the state of Victoria. However during the inception phase, it was recommended that several other colours are included to broaden the appeal to the community, and hence purple has since become the defining colour of the club – a unique colour scheme for the NRL. While most native Melbournians have not been raised in rugby league, the passion of the Storm fan base is the equal of most other clubs in the competition. Their average crowds hover around 14,000 to 15,000, which is quite good for the NRL, and especially so for Melbourne. And while the fans may not be as educated on the intricacies of the game, they are loud and supportive of their team. Access 5 The best way to get to AAMI Park from the CBD is by foot, being roughly a pleasant 15-minute stroll. Train stations at both Jolimont and Richmond are good options should you be coming from further afield, and Melbourne also boasts an extensive tram network. Parking close to the stadium is limited, although if you’re willing to walk it is possible to find either street or paid parking in nearby suburbs such as Richmond or even up in Collingwood. If you are catching mass transit be aware that the system operates on a cashless MYKI card that must be bought and pre-loaded with credit. AAMI Park itself is easy to enter, although the steepness of the stands means quite a few stairs. The concourses are a little narrow when congested, but largely it’s easy to move around the exterior and interior of the stadium. The bathrooms are nice and clean, and plentiful. Upon entry expect a brief bag search as is the norm these days. Return on Investment 4 With Category 1 tickets priced over $50 for Adults, this won’t be a cheap day out. However, unreserved General Admission tickets are only $25, which is comparable to other NRL venues. Despite the cost, AAMI Park is well-designed, clean, and modern, and offers a great viewing experience. Extras 3 Additional points for the fan experience and engagement, team store, mascot, cheerleaders, and the multi-faith prayer room – a nice inclusive touch. Final Thoughts Most visitors to Melbourne will be keen to catch an AFL game while in town. By all means, do so, but also make time to see the hometown Melbourne Storm at beautiful AAMI Park.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 ANZ Stadium Edwin Flack Ave Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127 Australia Canterbury Bulldogs website ANZ Stadium website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 83,500 Who Let the Dogs Out? ANZ Stadium is the centrepiece of Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush in the inner-west of the harbour city. The venue was previously known as Stadium Australia with a capacity of 110,000. However, after the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympic Games, renovations saw seating reduced to 83,500. The majority of big football events in NSW are held at ANZ Stadium, particularly rugby league and rugby union including Grand Finals, State of Origin, and rugby test matches (the epic final of Rugby World Cup 2003 took place here). Somewhat uniquely, the venue can operate in either rectangular or oval configuration depending on the sport. That being the case, AFL and cricket have utilized the stadium in the past. Several NRL clubs currently use ANZ Stadium for the regular season, either in full or in part; Canterbury, Wests Tigers, St George Illawarra Dragons, and South Sydney Rabbitohs. The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs were admitted to the competition in 1935 and have consistently been one of the strongest and most successful clubs over the past 30 years, despite a few hiccoughs in the early 2000s due to salary caps and off-field dramas. Having previously been based at the suburban Belmore Sports Ground, the Doggies were one of the first Sydney-based teams to move to one of the larger, more modern, and better-equipped central stadiums. After first moving to Spotless Stadium, the club has consistently been based at ANZ Stadium since 2006. The club is well known for having one of the more passionate fan bases in the NRL. Food & Beverage 3 This category can be easily summed up as follows; respectable quality and variety, but very expensive. The most basic combo of a hot dog (or pie or sausage roll), hot chips, and a drink will set you back over $16, a hefty price tag by any measure. Individual hot items include the aforementioned hot dogs, sausage rolls ($5, meat pies, hot chips, as well as burritos, and chicken burgers ($9.20). Also available are sushi, sandwiches, baguettes, and salads. Beers aren’t cheap either, at $7.90 for a Hahn Super Dry, with wine at a similar price. Pre-mixed spirits are priced at $10.50. Atmosphere 3 ANZ Stadium is a good venue for sport but probably suffers from being designed as a multi-purpose. The gradient of ground-level seating and the stands is quite gentle leading to the common complaint from fans that they are a long way from the playing field. It is also quite difficult to personalise the stadium for each team, however, the Bulldogs have placed banners at the northern end which is a nice touch. It is also pretty cool to watch sports in a stadium that has hosted so many memorable moments in a relatively short history. Of course, another drawback is that in a stadium built for large crowds, there will likely be only 20,000 people at best which dampens the atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 ANZ Stadium is the key focus of Sydney Olympic Park. Many of the venues used during the Sydney 2000 Olympics are on site including Qudos Bank Arena and the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre – both legitimate venues and attractions in their own right. Over 5,000 events are held within the precinct each year. There are also numerous hotels, bars, and restaurants within the Park. My recommendation is certainly to take advantage of this before the game, particularly about food. As well as fast food there are options covering Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Italian, and modern Australian. I like to enjoy a great steak at Ribs and Rumps (8 Dawn Fraser Ave). It is worth mentioning that Sydney Olympic Park is big and you need to be prepared to walk a bit to find your preferred restaurant as well as from the parking station if you choose to drive. You should also check the schedule for the Greater Western Sydney Giants (AFL) for the possibility of a doubleheader. Fans 4 The Dogs have a large and passionate supporter base. Club members congregate in the seating area known as “The Kennel.” The club represents the southwest of the city, traditionally a very multicultural area, which is reflected in the fan base. Unfortunately, Canterbury has had problems with supporters in recent times, particularly with occasional isolated incidents of violence, unruly behaviour, abuse of rival fans and match officials, and setting off flares. Be aware that this is a minority of people, and for the most part fans of the Dogs are respectful and well-behaved. Expect to see plenty of blue and white in the crowd. Access 4 Sydney Olympic Park is located close to the geographic centre of Sydney, with good transport options. There is normally plenty of parking (P1 is probably the closest), although it is expensive. Also be mindful that if there is a large event(s), traffic into the precinct will be an issue. Best to check beforehand, otherwise strongly consider public transport. The train station is a short walk from the stadium. As a large stadium, the venue handles crowds well and access inside is fairly smooth. Ushers are polite and helpful, and also realistic in not being too forceful in enforcing seating allocations. Return on Investment 4 The ticket prices themselves offer good value and include free public transport, but don’t leave the credit card at home if you plan on eating at the stadium. General admission is $25 for an adult while the most expensive “Category 1” seats are just over $50 for an adult. Usual discounts apply for pre-purchasing online, children, and families. This compares favourably with other venues for NRL and also within the highly competitive Sydney market in general. Extras 3 There was little happening outside the stadium when we attended which was a bit disappointing, but once inside the club used several smart initiatives to highlight the home team. Free Wi-Fi is always a bonus, plus the ushers are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Final Thoughts In the coming years, ANZ Stadium is likely to be significantly updated, probably to become permanently rectangular which will improve the experience – especially for club-level football. In the meantime, a Doggies game at ANZ Stadium still offers a fun day out.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 GIO Stadium Canberra Battye Street Bruce, ACT 2617 Australia Canberra Raiders website GIO Stadium Canberra website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 25,011 Go To GIO GIO Stadium Canberra is the major sporting stadium in Australia’s capital city of Canberra. It was originally opened in 1977 as an athletics venue. Several renovations were later conducted, resulting in a permanent rectangular playing surface and the current capacity being set at 25,011 in time for the stadium to host a number of football matches during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Canberra has also been the location of both international rugby league and rugby union matches. There was talk of either a major redevelopment or new stadium in Canberra around Australia’s failed bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Since then cost is likely to prevent any serious developments in the near future. Currently GIO Stadium is the home ground of both the Canberra Raiders of the NRL and the ACT Brumbies from the Super Rugby competition. The stadium is managed by a department of the ACT government, which also manages Manuka Oval; the premier oval stadium in the capital. The Canberra Raiders were formed as an expansion team in 1981, signally the beginning of an expansion program that would eventually see rugby league evolve into a national competition. Based out of GIO Stadium since 1990, the club experienced great success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, winning three premierships led by greats such as Mal Meninga, Laurie Daley, Ricky Stuart, Brad Clyde and Gary Belcher. Since then the “Green Machine” has struggled to build a truly competitive team. Food & Beverage 3 The stadium is equipped with adequate outlets although not all were open when we attended, and several did not open until close to game time; obviously staggered to allow for reasonable demand and supply. The offerings are largely typical, with prices as expected and average quality. Hot food includes hot dogs ($6.50), hot chips ($5), sausage roll and sauce ($5), pie and sauce ($5.50), and fish and chips ($9.50). The outlets on the sideline also sell a roast roll ($8), beef burrito ($8.90) chicken burrito ($8.90) and burger ($9). The outlets at either end of the stadium also include pizzas; namely ham and pineapple, meat lovers, and supreme for $8.50. Drinks available include Carlton brand beer; light ($6.20), mid ($6.40) and full strength ($6.50). Also on offer are white/red wine ($6.50), hard cider ($8.50), and spirits ($10). As is the case at many venues in Australia these days, carry trays are an additional cost; in Canberra $0.80. Soft drinks are Coke branded; soft drinks ($5.20), bottled water 9$4.50), and orange juice ($4.50). Tea and coffee stands are located on either side of the stadium as well. Pre-packaged food and small non-alcoholic beverages for individual consumption are permitted, although commercial food is not. Atmosphere 3 Canberra Stadium is an intimate venue with an interesting history. The western stand is named after Raiders legend Mal Meninga, and features statues of both Meninga and Laurie Daley just inside the entrance to the stadium. The eastern stand is named after two Brumbies rugby players; George Gregan and Stephen Larkham. The stadium is largely a bowl shape, with limited shelter from the elements. During day games the eastern side will be in full sun but keep in mind Canberra can get quite cold in winter. Seats are comfortable and feature cup holders, somewhat unusual for Australia. There is a medium sized video screen in the north eastern corner of the ground. The Raiders have both cheerleaders, the “Emeralds” and a mascot, Victor the Viking. If you arrive early you will see the Under 20’s curtain raiser which finishes roughly 30-40 minutes before the scheduled start time, followed by the warm ups for the main game. The Raiders have long since adopted the “Green Machine” nickname, a play on their lime-green uniforms. Expect to hear numerous renditions of the team song and a highly parochial ground announcer. Neighborhood 3 The immediate neighbourhood is somewhat limited to the adjacent Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), training centre for Australia’s elite and developing athletes. The surrounding suburb of Bruce also includes the University of Canberra, however is not exactly a thriving hub of entertainment or culinary delights. This notwithstanding, there are plenty of great things to do and see in Canberra – just not within walking distance of Canberra Stadium. If possible, travelling fans should aim to make a weekend of it and experience the sights of the Australian national capital. This former rural area of NSW was developed into the Australian Capital Territory after debate between Sydney and Melbourne during the time of federation as to which city should be the capital. Canberra was the eventual compromise and now features highly recommended cultural attractions such as the Australian War Memorial (allow several hours at a minimum), old and new parliament house, and the National Gallery. Canberra also offers potential for a sporting double header, most obviously for the Raiders and Brumbies. Other opportunities to explore include the CBR Brave (ice hockey – AIHL), Canberra United (soccer – W-League) and University of Canberra Capitals (basketball – WNBL). The Greater Western Sydney Giants play occasional AFL games at Manuka Oval while Canberra Racecourse is also relatively close by. Postgame head to Raiders Belconnen (155 Hardwick Crescent, Belconnen), the licensed leagues club associated with the Raiders. Two other options worth mentioning are the Canberra Labor Club (Chandler St, Belconnen) and for a more rowdy experience with a younger student/defence force cadet crowd, Mooseheads Pub and Nightclub (105 London Circuit, Canberra). Those on a stadium journey requiring accommodation will find a number of motels in the Belconnen area. Fans 3 Fans of the home team are easy to spot in their distinctive lime-green hats and jerseys. While crowds are not exceptional, there is strong support for the Raiders. The majority of the crowd seems to arrive quite close to kick off, but are in the seat prior to game time. Average crowd numbers are around 9,000-11,000 but most of the lower bowl feels quite full. Expect the fans to be knowledgeable and into the game. The environment is definitely family friendly. Access 4 GIO Stadium is accessed via car or bus. Visit the GIO Stadium website for more information on bus transfers. Car parking is located between the AIS and the stadium. At $7 per car, it’s very affordable to drive. It’s a short walk to the stadium entrance. The suburb of Bruce is north of the city centre and very accessible from anywhere in Canberra. If visiting by car from outside of the ACT, Canberra is between 3-4 hours from Sydney and 6-7 hours from Melbourne. Canberra Airport is a 20 minute drive from the stadium. Access into and around the stadium is pleasingly easy. There are ushers, however they are difficult to distinguish from regular fans. However, they are friendly and are happy to allow access to different areas for photos. The bathrooms are plentiful, relatively clean, but quite old. Return on Investment 4 The Raiders at GIO Stadium stacks up well when it comes to cost and return on investment. Access is very well priced both in terms of parking and seating. The most expensive single tickets are in the grandstands and cost $35. You can pick up a great seat at ground level around the halfway mark for only $25. At many other NRL venues, you would be lucky to get a general admission ticket for that price. I recommend pre-booking online and selecting the individual seat you would like. Extras 3 The Raiders have merchandise stands inside and outside the seating area. As you enter the venue there are several minor fan engagement opportunities, particularly for the children. In addition to the statues mentioned above, there is a plaque commemorating the original opening of the stadium as the National Athletics Centre. Final Thoughts The Raiders offer a pleasant experience at a very competitive price point. Canberra is a great place to visit with much to offer for tourists. Make a weekend of it, and be sure to take in an NRL game at GIO Stadium Canberra.