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.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Suncorp Stadium 40 Castlemaine St Milton QLD 4064 Australia Brisbane Broncos website Suncorp Stadium website Year Opened: 1914 Capacity: 52,500 Bronx Nation at the Cauldron Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane is arguably one of the best football-only stadiums worldwide. Better known as Lang Park, the venue opened in 1914 on the site of a former cemetery, but didn’t become the home of rugby league in Queensland until the 1950s. The stadium gained traction in Australian sporting folklore with the rise of the State of Origin concept which began in 1980, a three-game series between NSW and QLD that has evolved into the premiere event on the annual rugby league calendar. Lang Park was nicknamed “The Cauldron,” and was renowned for local fans euphemistically described as boisterous and parochial. A substantial redevelopment was completed in 2003, resulting in a 52,500 seater where 75% are covered within the drip line – the works have seen Suncorp Stadium regularly mentioned as the best rectangular stadium in Australia. The Queensland Reds Super Rugby franchise and the Brisbane Roar A-League club both relocated to the stadium, testament to the high standard of spectator facilities. Internationals across all three codes, as well as high-profile concerts, also regularly take place at Suncorp. The Brisbane Broncos joined what is now the National Rugby League (NRL) as an expansion team in 1988, along with a Gold Coast Tweed club and the Newcastle Knights. They’ve quickly become a powerhouse, having won six premierships. They are also one of the largest and highly valued football clubs in the country, and hold the distinction of being the only publically owned club in Australia. Food & Beverage 4 Suncorp Stadium is well stocked with many outlets on all levels of the seating bowl, including a Red Rooster branded outlet. There may not be any specialty items, but all the regular offerings are available. Like most sporting venues around the world, the monopolistic nature of concessions leads to high prices – expect to pay up to $10 for a single hot food item such as a burger, while a humble Four ’n’ Twenty pie is around $5. One notable point to be made where Suncorp deviates from the norm is that there are a higher than usual number of healthy choices, including sushi, gourmet salads, and yoghurt. There’s also a small selection of alcoholic drinks, including four different beers. Be aware that if it is your shout at the bar, then as seems to be usual these days a carry tray will cost you an extra dollar. Nevertheless, I am otherwise well satisfied by the food choices, as well as by the service and availability. There used to be a full list of items and prices on the stadium website, but unfortunately this seems to have been removed. Atmosphere 5 The redeveloped Suncorp Stadium compares well to any major football stadium around the world. The stadium design puts the crowd on top of the action, creating an intimate atmosphere while maximising fan engagement and noise. The seating bowl has three levels, all of which provide great views. Even without a capacity attendance, the crowd noise is still high. If possible, circumnavigate the exterior of the stadium prior to entry to ensure you pass through the northern plaza to see statues of Queensland greats Wally Lewis (“The King”), Arthur Beetson, Mal Meninga, and Darren Lockyer, as well as plaques in the concourse listing all QLD State of Origin players and their numbers. There are also video screens at either end, however, I find them just a touch too small and also think they are placed a little low for those sitting in the nosebleed seats. Despite this, the stadium is a great experience. Neighbourhood 5 The nearby Caxton St is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafés, making it the ideal route if you’re walking in from the east. However, my number one choice in the vicinity is actually on the opposite side of Suncorp Stadium. By all means check out the aforementioned strip, but definitely check out the XXXX Alehouse (Corner Black and Paton Streets, Milton). The entrance is a little difficult to spot, as the building appears to face Milton Rd, but the public entrance is down the side and up the stairs – the pub itself is open plan with a balcony and has a good choice of bar food. Brisbane itself is a beautiful city to visit, and in the winter months provides a warmer climate than the chilly southeast corner of the continent. A couple of quick suggestions include South Bank, Queen St Mall, and the Storey Bridge Climb. Fans 4 Queenslanders in general are proud and committed supporters – the Broncos have the largest supporter base of any NRL club, and have an average home crowd of over 30,000. Not only that, the design of the stadium maximises the noise and cheering of the fans. Maroon and yellow are everywhere, and there are numerous Broncos banners throughout the city, reminding visitors that all of the city is behind their team. Access 4 Suncorp Stadium has no specific parking in the vicinity, but public transport by bus and train is well organised, making travel to the venue largely hassle-free; Milton and Roma St are the two nearest train stations, with Milton being the closer of the two. There are commercial parking lots in surrounding suburbs which are located within walking distance if you must drive, but there are no clear directions to rideshare pickups. The concourses inside the stadium cater well to the large crowds, and even when busy don’t feel too crowded; bathrooms are spacious and in good condition. The only possible complaint in this area is the number of stairs to climb in order to reach the higher levels. However, ushers are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Return on Investment 4 No doubt the fan experience here is top shelf, but you will definitely pay for the privilege. Expect to pay $50 or more just to get through the gates, with the best seats over $100. In most cases public transport will be included in the price of your ticket, but best to check. The cost does detract from the overall score, but regardless of the cost, this is still one of Australia’s top sporting destinations. Extras 4 There is a large stadium store located on the northern plaza, which is also open on weekdays. Stadium tours are available, but must be pre-booked and are only held on Thursdays – there is an option to book a combined stadium and XXXX Brewery tour which is a great idea. As well as the Queensland greats statues, there are also a number of fan activation opportunities outside Suncorp Stadium. Final Thoughts The Brisbane Broncos are one of the most successful sporting teams in Australia, and Suncorp Stadium is one of the best venues in the land – visiting is a must.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Tennis Center at College Park 5200 Campus Drive College Park, MD 20740 Maryland Terrapins website Tennis Center at College Park website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 250 Terrapins Playing Tennis The University of Maryland, College Park, was founded in 1856. It is recognized as the flagship school of the University of Maryland system. The university has an enrollment of more than 37,000 students. The University of Maryland offers 127 undergraduate degrees and 112 graduate degrees in thirteen colleges and schools. Notable alumni of the University of Maryland include Muppets creator Jim Henson, ESPN anchor Scott Van Pelt and Seinfeld co-creator Larry David. The University of Maryland currently has 20 athletic teams: 8 men’s and 12 women’s. Maryland is a member of the Big Ten Conference for all sports. The basketball team is the most well-known, although men’s soccer team, women’s lacrosse team and women’s field hockey teams are arguably the most successful on campus. In 2011/2012 the men’s tennis program was discontinued due to financial issues. Currently the team competes only in women’s tennis. The Tennis Center at College Park is a private tennis facility located close to the main part of the University of Maryland campus. It is a 32-court tennis facility featuring indoor, outdoor, hard, red and green clay courts. The Junior Tennis Champions Center, a program to assist and develop young tennis talent is also located at the Tennis Center at College Park. Food & Beverage 1 Some snacks and a snack machine are available inside the entrance to the Tennis Center at College Park. It would seem impolite to eat too much food while watching tennis matches at this small facility. It is best to plan your meal or snack for before or after the matches. Atmosphere 3 There are 32 courts at the Tennis Center at College Park, but the Terrapins only play on the main hardcourt surfaces closest to the main building at the facility. At each court there is a very small grandstand, although most people just watch from hills and sidewalks nearest to the court they want to watch. Match scoring uses the small game markers located on the net. There is a judge assigned to each court for calls. Fans stay quiet during game play but will shout encouragements between the action. That does mean you may hear some yelling during actual game play, since the cheering is for another court. The whole facility is fairly quiet and tree lined. Occasionally propeller planes from the small airpark next door changes the sound dynamics of the matches. That is a bit jarring, but luckily only happens intermittently and not for a long period of time. Neighborhood 3 The Tennis Center at College Park is located near to the Aviation Museum (located at the airpark noted above) and the College Park Metro station. It is not located on the main campus of the university but a few blocks away. The town of College Park is located directly south of the campus along U.S. Route 1. RJ Bentley’s Filling Station, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Jimmy John’s, Ledo Pizza, and Five Guys are all good options in this “downtown” area. Looney’s Pub and Bobby’s Burger Palace are two other great options, and are located in The Varsity building (8150 Baltimore Ave) north of the downtown area, and maybe even closer to the arena if walking. Nando’s PERi-PERi is a new addition to the area and offers their legendary butterfly-cut, flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken. I prefer the half chicken with the medium PERi-PERi sauce and a side of Macho Peas. The Sheraton College Park North Hotel at 4095 Powder Mill Road in nearby Beltsville is the best lodging choice, but it is not within walking distance of the campus. You will always have the dizzying array of Washington, DC options to choose from. The College Park Station of the Washington Metro is close by and is your best bet for getting to DC, as the traffic and parking situation is not ideal. Fans 2 The bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. Since it located away from the main part of the college campus, do not expect to see many students attend the matches. Access 3 The University of Maryland is not far from the Washington Beltway, but it is just far enough away that getting to the stadium is not too easy. U.S. 1 and University Boulevard are full of traffic lights and will be very full of traffic, even on non-game days. There is a small lot in front of the Tennis Center. There is a larger lot entrance just south on the road that has a larger lot and offers a quick rear entrance into the tennis viewing area. If travelling to the game via the Washington Metro, get off at the College Park Station and walk across the street. Return on Investment 3 Tickets and parking are free. Division I athletics is near professional in quality, so for the zero cost of admission you get to see a high quality sports experience for very little. Extras 2 The facility is quite quaint. I liked looking around the facility and seeing the various court surfaces available. Clay surfaces are very cool to watch someone play on, let alone get to play on yourself. The College Park Aviation Museum is worth a stop since it is literally next to the tennis facility. Located across the street is also the Herbert Wells Ice Rink. Final Thoughts The Tennis Center at College Park is a nice facility where one can watch some very high level tennis talent. The only downfall is that since it located far from the main part of the college campus, student fans are not part of the overall experience.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Kastles Stadium at Union Market 1309 5th Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Washington Kastles website Kastles Stadium at Union Market website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 700 Kastle In The Sky The Washington Kastles are a team in World TeamTennis (WTT), a tennis circuit that runs for approximately three weeks every summer. WTT employs some different rules from the tennis you’d see on the ATP or WTA Tour. Each match consists of five sets which are five different types of play – men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. All sets are to five games with a best-of-nine point tiebreak at 4-4. The winner is whichever team wins the most games over the five sets. Lets are playable (and may be played by either partner in doubles) and all calls except foot faults are made electronically by the Hawk-Eye system. As for the Kastles, they previously played at the Charles E. Smith Center, which is also the home of George Washington University basketball, as well as a couple temporary facilities around the city. However, in 2019, the team moved to a brand-new stadium on the roof of Union Market. The team sold out every game this 2019 season in the new, more intimate environment, and it has been a huge success. Food & Beverage 5 The concession situation is a bit unusual here. The stadium is on the roof of Union Market, and your best bet is to head there to grab something to eat before heading upstairs to your seat. There are too many options to list in this article, but they include everything from arepas to pizza to Korean tacos to Ethiopian food to an old-fashioned New York-style soda shop. All food and beverage except alcohol may be taken into the stadium, and many fans will opt to do this. If you must buy something after you get upstairs, there is one stand behind the grandstand that offers select items from Union Market. However, the selection is much more limited and more expensive than it is downstairs. Beer is available for $8, wine for $9, and cocktails for $12, and these must be purchased upstairs if you want alcohol. Water and lemonade are available for $4 each. Atmosphere 4 As the emcee put it, this isn’t Wimbledon, it’s World TeamTennis. While traditional tennis tournaments are quiet, subdued affairs with polite clapping, the atmosphere at a WTT match is more comparable to other professional sports in the United States. The team encourages fans to be as loud as possible in between points, with music and cheers played over the PA system as well. The stadium itself is quite small, only 700 seats, and most of the seats consist of folding chairs arranged in rows. There is one small scoreboard behind one of the baselines, but fans sitting on that side have no way of knowing the score except for keeping track of it in their heads and listening for the occasional announcement. Neighborhood 5 Union Market is located in the NoMa neighborhood of Washington, D.C., which stands for “North of Massachusetts. ” Although this wasn’t always the nicest neighborhood, it has improved a lot in the last few years and is perfectly safe. The main attraction is Union Market, located right underneath the stadium. There are also many other attractions throughout D.C., including many monuments, memorials, and museums. All of the government-run attractions are free, though some of the private ones are not. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the White House or Capitol, you will need to book in advance. Fans 4 Every Kastles game has been a sellout this year, and these fans aren’t the kind of crowd you’d get at a typical tennis match. They are raucous, rowdy, and always ready to cheer on their Kastles throughout the match. They stay until the end, and seem knowledgeable about the team, the sport, the league, and all its quirks. If you’re expecting typical tennis fans, you’ll be in for an unpleasant surprise, but if you’re looking for a crowd like other professional sports, you’ll find it here. Access 4 Union Market is located only a few blocks from the NoMa-Gallaudet station on the Red Line of the Washington Metro. While this may seem convenient, keep in mind Metro is constantly doing construction and track work so expect delays if you choose to go this way. Check the WMATA website to make sure no stations you use will be closed. If coming from the suburbs, you can park at a Metro station in Maryland or Northern Virginia. Parking ranges from $3 to $6 depending on the station and is free on weekends. There is also a lot right next to the stadium, but this serves all of Union Market and parking can be a challenge. Once you arrive at the stadium, use the entrance at 6th and Penn Streets. Once you scan your ticket and go through security, you will be able to take an elevator or stairs up to the roof to access the stadium. Restrooms are located on the second floor, and are also accessible in the same way. Return on Investment 1 The cheapest tickets range from $60 to $90 depending on the night and go up to over $150. This is by far the most expensive ticket in WTT. Tickets also sell out very quickly due to the small size of the venue, so don’t expect to wait until the last minute. While it is understandable that tickets are in high demand due to the small size of the venue, these prices are a bit ridiculous. Extras 5 There are free programs available at the entrance. Children 16 and under can get autographs from the Kastles and their opponents after every home game, and children 12 and under can get a free tennis racket at the entrance once per season. Two more stars for the unusual rooftop setting and the wide range of amenities at Union Market. Final Thoughts Kastles Stadium at Union Market is certainly unique, on many levels. First, there’s the uniqueness of World TeamTennis itself, and then there’s the idea of having a tennis stadium on the rooftop of a market. It’s certainly an unusual place. It is unfortunate that the ticket prices are so high, but other than that, Kastles Stadium at Union Market is a top experience not to be missed.

Photos by Conrad Klank, Stadium JouCrney Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Stade Roland Garros 2 Avenue Gordon Bennett Paris, France 75016 French Open website Stade Roland Garros website Year Opened: 1928 Capacity: 28,708 Allez Roland Garros! Bonjour! Roland Garros, also commonly referred to as The French Open, is the second Grand Slam of the tennis calendar year, held during the last week in May and continuing a week into June. It is preceded by the Australian Open in January, and succeeded by Wimbledon just two weeks after the completion of the French, and the final Slam of the year, the US Open in September. The Roland Garros venue features three large individually ticketed stadiums: Court Phillipe Chatrier which holds 15,059, Court Suzanne Lenglen with a capacity of 10,076, and Court 1 or The Bull Ring, with seating for 3,805. Of the four Grand Slams, Roland Garros was the third to be established: Wimbledon in 1877, The US Open in 1881, Roland Garros in 1891, and The Australian Open in 1905. Roland Garros began as The French Open because it was initially reserved only for play of those French players. The tournament officially renamed to Roland Garros and was opened up to players of all nationalities in 1925. The tournament bears the name Roland Garros as a memorial to the French aviator who was shot down in aerial combat in October 1918 at age 30. The current site where the tournament stands today was first built in 1928 to host an important Davis Cup match where the famous French Four Musketeers could handle the large crowds that were expected. Later, only after the previous sites of the tournament outgrew their land, did it relocate to the stadium built for the Davis Cup as it stands at Porte d�Auteuil. The deal set by the Stade Fran�ais was that the seven acres of land would be donated on the condition that it would be named after Roland Garros. In 1928, only five courts stood on this land. Most notably was the small stadium, Centre Court, which would eventually evolve and upgrade to what we see today as Court Phillipe Chatrier. Not until 1975 did the tournament begin to really see growth. As a very small portion of land was acquired, four additional courts were built, and Centre Court underwent its first renovations as offices were added. In 1979, the grounds saw its most noticeable expansions as roughly $6.4 million was invested to enlarge the grandstand around Centre Court, construct Court 1 which would hold a capacity of 4,500 at the time, the construction of three covered underground courts, and expanded to fill 10 acres. In 1984, the venue underwent its second sizable renovation and expansion, with costs estimated around $10.3 million to upgrade player facilities, and build a sound barrier bordering the Avenue de la Porte d�Auteuil. This included the addition of four acres given to the French Federation of Tennis (FFT) by the City of Paris where six new courts would be constructed, and spectator areas around outer courts were improved. By the end of this phase in 1986, the venue consisted of 15 acres and 19 courts. Since 1991 there have been renovations to keep the tournament at the forefront of major tennis tournaments. During that time period, the venue has expanded to 20 courts on about 21 acres, and has upgraded nearly everything along the way including the additions of Susanne Lenglen Court, the small stadiums, Courts 2 and 3. The cost of modernization to the grounds over that time period has totaled nearly $158 million. During the 2013 event, the FFT announced its largest continued modernization plans, which will aim to provide solutions to the biggest problems, identified by the FFT, most notably, adding a retractable roof to Court Phillipe Chatrier to ensure continuous play during inclement weather. Food & Beverage 3 The food and beverage selection at Roland Garros is very interesting and probably not what most would expect. The most common areas to fill up on food and drinks are the concession stands located all over the grounds, which feature only one similar American stadium type treat, which is the hot dog. Options at the concession stand include: hot dog, dessert, and can of pop for $13.75, ham and cheese sandwich, dessert, and can of pop for $13, and for an additional $7 one can add a salad or an additional hot dog and chips. Believe it or not, this is the most affordable way to eat while at the tournament. In addition to the typical concession stands, there are a number of other specialty concessions and carts around the grounds with a selection of sandwiches, burgers, salads, wraps, coffee, waffles, and one in particular featuring Haagen Dazs ice cream. Additionally, there is a small self-service grocery called L'Epicerie located on the south esplanade of Court Suzanne Lenglen. My biggest food recommendation is the macaron variety pack, pricey, but very tasty! For the more upscale dining experience at Roland Garros, be sure to visit La Brasserie overlooking outer court number 11 and near Gate W. This Mediterranean themed area features three different distinct experiences. The first part is the bar and lounge called The Macarons & Cocktails Bar which is the only public spot inside the grounds where alcohol can be purchased. While this may sound blasphemous as a spots traveler, it's my recommendation to stay away from the beer offered and instead try some of the wine available; after all, it is France! Drinks are definitely pricey and will range from $12-$20. The next part of this area is Le Buffet, but don't be fooled, this is no typical American buffet, everything is a la carte! If you're extra hungry and still want to try the buffet, be sure to load up on the rolls as they're pretty cheap and still filling. If nothing is found appealing in the buffet area either go back the next day as the menu changes daily, or head just next door to the last part of La Brasserie. This part is a sit down gourmet restaurant with waiters and a menu. Obviously, this is the most expensive area on the grounds to eat, but is also the nicest. Overall, the food and beverage selection is a bit disappointing when compared to other events of this magnitude. Atmosphere 5 One of the things that Roland Garros does exceptionally well is creating a wonderful atmosphere. Upon entering the gates, one will consistently be reminded of where they are by the Roland Garros logos and vibrant color scheme apparent all over the grounds and buildings. Retail vendors are out in the walkways yelling and singing as boisterous Parisians. Each day there are different types of entertainment typically found near the Place des Mousquetaires ranging from local musical acts to street performers. In general, the Place des Mousquetaires is certainly a must visit area inside the grounds at the tournament. In addition to being a great place to soak up some of the history of the tournament and the great players of French past, it's also a wonderful area for fans that are interested in watching matches on the video board in which their ticket may not allow them to enjoy firsthand. Similarly to the video boards on the facade of Court Suzanne Lenglen, large groups of people will congregate to gaze at exciting matches, particularly when a French player is involved. Scoreboards, ad displays, and PA announcers inside and around the grounds are all done beautifully and without obstruction. When looking at the seating, while the legroom and absence of cup holders is noticeable to American sports fans, this is not an uncommon practice in European sports or tennis events in general. Neighborhood 4 There's a wonderful little bar and restaurant district just a safe ten minute walk from Gate W. Once exiting the tournament grounds via Gate W, take a right heading East on the Avenue de la Porte d'Auteuil following the crowds which will typically head that direction for post-match indulgences, or for the Metro station. The desired area is called the Place de la Porte d'Auteuil where there are a number of bars and restaurants of all kinds. TSE is an interesting trendy and upscale French take on traditional Thai food. The cuisine is excellent, but is very pricey for small portions. This is a great choice when you're ready to relax after a long day at the tournament and you're looking for a light meal. If a traditional French experience is desired, the Le Beaujolais d'Auteuil is highly recommended. Be sure to request a seat on the patio if it's a nice evening for some of the best people watching in the world. While these are my top two recommendations, there are a dozen great choices within the Place de la Porte d'Auteuil. As with any restaurant you experience during your stay in Paris, it is recommended that you request an English version of the menu as most restaurants do keep these on hand. Lastly, don't be surprised to really shell out the money for dining experiences, especially if you want a drink or two with your meal, as that's really what gouges you. When looking at lodging options, keep in mind that Parisian hotel rooms are very small and typically pretty expensive. If you are content with going that route, there are tons of options all over Paris with convenient access to the tournament from all over the city. The option that I strongly recommend for the more adventurous traveler is to rent an apartment or house depending on the number of travelers accompanying you. In almost every case you'll be able to save a substantial amount of money and get more space by renting as opposed to staying in a hotel. A great resource to keep in mind is a website called Home Away. Paris has some of the most well-known tourist attractions in the world, but there is a ton to see. Be sure to leave a few days to see the sights outside of days planned at the tournament. Attractions that I absolutely recommend include: visiting the Eiffel Tower and views from the Trocadero, visiting the Arc de Triomphe and walking the shops along the Champs de Elysee leading to it, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, riding a boat tour down the Seine River, visiting the Sacre Coeur Cathedral and walking through the accompanying artisan square, visiting the Louvre and nearby gardens, and countless other museums, gardens, shops, and beautiful architecture. Fans 5 Tennis fans are some of the best fans in the world. Although there are different types of tennis fans, all appreciate and respect the basic rules of being present at live tennis matches. Each sport has times where the crowd is expected to get especially loud or especially quiet. Tennis is unique in that most of the time the crowd is expected to be silent, however, there are exceptions to this rule when there has been a great point played or when there is a native player playing in front of their home crowd. The French crowds take this instance to a much higher level than at most other events. While the US Open crowds have done their best to improve in this aspect in support of their native players, it's nothing in comparison to the French supporters. While I have a tough time understanding French, there is one distinct word that you're forced to learn no matter what language you speak-"Allez!" The French fans have turned a simple word with an English translation of "Go Ahead," into an interjection at any stop in play to will on a player. This phenomenon has gotten so out of hand that it's common that the player on the opposing side of the chants will go on to complain about the French fans' enthusiasm in post-match press conferences. It's also common that while watching matches on TV that one will hear the chants in the background. Access 4 While the access getting to the tournament itself may sound daunting at first, especially for those who may not be very familiar with the French language, don't stress too much, we are here to help. First off, the best airport option when flying into Paris is Charles de Gaulle. The airport is a bit dated and confusing, but it's important that you follow the signs very carefully depending on your next mode of transport. The most inexpensive mode of transport from the airport is by far the Metro system (the underground/above ground subway/train system). If traveling by the Metro, proceed to the airport tram, which will transport you to the RER B line, which is the direct train into the heart of Paris. The one-way ticket into the city will cost approximately $12. From there you will transfer trains depending on where exactly you're headed from the airport. Keep in mind that when purchasing train tickets with an American credit card, you will need to skip the automatic ticket machines and proceed to the ticket window where a representative will assist you (they speak English). If heading to the tournament directly you will exit the RER B train at the St Michel Notre Dame stop, transfer by foot to the Cluny La Sorbonne, and ride line 10 to the Porte d'Auteuil stop. Once above ground it will be easy to follow the crowds or Official Roland Garros logoed footprints on the sidewalks to the front gates. It is important to consult and print the Paris Metro Maps before heading the tournament. If you're interested in other modes of transport to and from the tournament, below is the pertinent info: Car Parking Getting to Roland Garros Once inside the tournament grounds, you will surely feel right at home. Despite there being large crowds that will inevitably form between big matches in the walkways and restrooms, the walkways are large and spacious, and restrooms are clean. For stadium accessibility, handicap guide, first aid, emergency, boutiques, and restaurants, consult the Around the Grounds. One of the many great things about Roland Garros that isn't often found is the cloakroom that is in three different locations around the outside of the venue. The cloakrooms are storage areas that will accept the items that you didn't mean to bring that aren't allowed in. The cloakroom is willing to accept bags as large as an airplane carry on. One last thing to keep in mind about the access to the tournament is the e-ticket system that the tournament utilizes. In an effort to cut down on the amount of black market ticket sales, tickets are reserved using a name at the time of purchase. While the tickets can be transferred to different people in advance, this is a very secure ticketing system. The biggest drawback is the conversion system that takes place at the gate. Each e-ticket needs to be confirmed by the tournament staff by scanning the printed e-ticket, verifying ownership by checking the registered name against your passport (a passport or laminated copy is the only accepted form of ID), and then converting the e-ticket to the entry pass, which is then printed on the spot before entering. Clearly, this process slows the entry procedure, so it's recommended that you plan an extra 15-30 minutes when traveling to the tournament grounds, and absolutely, do not forget your passport or laminated copy. Return on Investment 4 Overall, the return on investment at Roland Garros is good, but not great. When taking into consideration ticket prices, concessions, and souvenirs against the experience, each category is slightly on the expensive side. It's to be expected that an international event such as this would be slightly overpriced, but that doesn't change the fact that it isn't quite worth the total expense. Individual tickets for the 2013 event ranged from $30 to $200 during the two-week period. As the tournament progresses into the later rounds the tickets obviously increase in price. Additionally, separate tickets are sold for each of the three match courts (Court Phillipe Chatrier, Court Suzanne Lenglen, and Court 1), as well as general admission grounds passes, also known as annexes, which only allow access into the grounds and first come first serve seating for courts 2 through 18. Court Phillipe Chatrier gets the highest ranked players, followed by Court Suzanne Lenglen, followed by Court 1, thus making these the most expensive ticket choices. These are my recommendations over the grounds passes due to the large number of grounds passes sold and the limited space available. Please note that the prices listed above are face value and are typically only purchased for those prices well in advance and through the Official Roland Garros Ticket Distribution. If you are planning your trip to Roland Garros a little later and the opportunity to buy tickets through the tournament directly has passed, I recommend getting tickets through Vivid Seats. Extras 5 Roland Garros fully deserves full marks when it comes to extras as the tournament goes above and beyond to satisfy international tennis fans. Let's start with the RG lab featuring free access to the Babolab, where the Official Stringers are located, a special History of Lacoste exhibit, and games and activities for kids. Just as the city of Paris has unbelievable architecture, the tournament has found a way to stay up to date while keeping its beautiful historical feel. Final Thoughts Top 5 things to make sure you do while at The French Open: Visit the Place des Mousquetaires to see the statues Watch a match in as many outer courts as possible for different experiences and atmospheres Get drinks and a meal at La Brasserie above court 11 Watch a match on the big video boards just outside of Court Suzanne Lenglen Shop and visit the boutiques and exhibits, especially the RG Lab Things to keep in mind when attending The French Open: Pack a small bag to take into the tournament to store your extra long sleeves, long pants, and small retractable umbrella since the weather varies (small bags are allowed in the tournament after a brief inspection, of course) Bring a camera and autograph pen (necessities when your favorite player is on the practice courts) Overall, Roland Garros is a pricey endeavor. However, for a sports fan, it's certainly one of the best experiences in the world. Planning this trip is not to be taken lightly as it can be a little tricky with the language barrier and the hiccups along the way, but if you take some of our recommendations, you'll be well on your way to a wonderful trip. Au revoir!

Photos by Conrad Klank, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Atlantic Station 1380 Atlantic Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30363 Atlanta Open website Atlantic Station website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 3,728 Tennis in Atlanta The Atlanta Open is one of 41 ATP World Tour Level 250 Men’s Professional Tennis Tournaments. Held in mid-July, it is the first stop on the American hard court swing for the men’s ATP Tour. It’s also the first event on the Emirates Airlines US Open Series (EAUSOS) calendar leading up to the US Open in New York City in September. Other events superseding the Atlanta Open on the EAUSOS calendar include the Western & Southern Open, and the Winston-Salem Open. Though the tournament has long roots in the city of Atlanta, it’s only been played in its current condition since 2010 when the tournament was purchased by the USTA Southern from Indianapolis, where the failing RCA Championships tournament was held for a number of years. Since the start of the Atlanta Open in 2010, the tournament has been held at three different locations including The Racquet Club of the South, The Atlanta Athletic Club, and now, where the tournament is guaranteed to be held at least until 2016, Atlantic Station. Atlantic Station is an outdoor entertainment district chock-full of great shopping, bars, restaurants, and activities for all ages. The tournament facilities have been uniquely nestled right above the parking garages next to the shopping areas. The facility includes a total of six Deco-Turf hard courts, three of which are official match courts, and the other three are used for practice. Stadium Court is the largest and typically features the highest ranked players; it holds a total of 3,728, including 10 hospitality suites. The other two match courts: The AJC Grandstand Court, and Court 1, have a nice bank of bleacher seating and have a much cozier, up-close feel. Tickets purchased for the tournament ensure a seat in Stadium Court, and all other areas of the tournament, which are general admission, first come, and first served. Food & Beverage 4 One of the unique things about going to tennis tournaments is the food court that is created. Instead of being forced to risk getting food all over your shirt in the seats, you have the option at tennis tournaments to enjoy your food without missing any of the action on the big video board provided. This option is no different in Atlanta as there is a wonderful little food court available with some great culinary options. Let's start with the drinks, as with all of the tournament stops on the ATP World Tour calendar, it's ensured that you will have the choice to enjoy a Corona or Modelo product, as they are the official beer partners of the ATP Tour. The beauty of it though, is the amount of perks that come with it: the delightful signature Corona beach house bar, the number of Corona beer carts and stands, the Corona Adirondack chairs and misting stations, and the Corona corn hole and table tennis areas. Corona surely goes all out to make it a great overall experience. A refreshing can of Corona or Modelo with lime is $5, Clos du Bois wine by the glass for $7.50, Coke products and water are available for $3, and if you're really looking to have fun, the Svedka bar serves vodka drinks that come in small buckets (see pictures) for $12 and come with a spin on their prize wheel. This is my recommendation, but pace yourself as it gets hot and one or two can catch up to you quickly. Cheers! Once you've found a drink that tickles your fancy, make your way over to the concession stand, which offers a great variety for most any taste or diet. Warning: This is not your typical stadium concession. Options include a shrimp po-boy basket, chicken Caésar salad wrap, smoked chicken salad wrap, smoked turkey club sandwich, BBQ pulled pork/chicken sandwich, chicken tender basket, BBQ pork nachos, and of course what would a concession stand be without a hot dog, cheeseburger, and French fries? Each of the dishes mentioned come as a combo including a side of fries or chips, and a signature southern sweet tea ranging from $10-$12. Additionally, the concession stand offers a very unique dessert, the homemade chocolate peanut butter trifle ($5) which is to die for. While there may only be a handful of bars and one concession stand on site, there are plenty of quality options to keep you satisfied even if you attend the tournament on numerous days. Atmosphere 4 The Atlanta Open may be a young tournament at a fairly new location, but they have done a fantastic job creating a fun and exciting tennis atmosphere. The buildings all around Atlantic Station have banners, signs, and images of players to really create that excitement when approaching the tournament site, as well as once you are inside the grounds. Additionally, the sponsors have done a fantastic job in aiding to the overall atmosphere, namely Corona, Lexus, and the USTA Southern with their displays and activities including miniature court tennis for kids and "big" kids, video games, photo booth, and prize giveaways. No matter what your age, you'll surely leave with a few goodies to add to your collection. Generally, when considering where to sit within a tennis stadium, I always recommend corner seating, if it fits in your budget of course. There's nothing worse than a long day of moving your head back and forth tracking the ball if you're seated at center court. I also think that for pure tennis fans and critics, that seating behind the baseline, also considered end zone seating, is one of the best places to really see points develop and learn about the movement of players and shot placement. My recommendation is to sit in one of the sections between 108-112 as those sections are in the northeast corner, and not only have the best view of the court, but also of the Atlanta skyline in the background. Keep in mind that your ticket to Stadium Court also entitles you to access all other courts of the tournament including the practice courts which are on the other side of Atlantic Station. Generally, the seats are comfortable, until the finals weekend approaches and the stands become more crowded which make the seats feel tighter. The majority of the stadium seats are bleachers with built in seat backs, which do provide some amount of reserved real estate, but they still get a little squished when the crowds pack in. The first two rows from the court are the Lexus Inner Circle seats, which are padded and are the most expensive seats besides the suites. These seats also entitle you access to the exclusive Lexus VIP lounge which is a great amenity, especially on hot or rainy days or when you just need to get away from the action for a few minutes. Neighborhood 5 One of the fantastic things about the tournament being located in an outdoor restaurant and shopping district is the proximity to entertainment outside of the sporting event itself. Fans, players, and tournament and tour representatives all seem to agree that time spent outside of the tournament is well spent around Atlantic Station. Be sure to visit either Yard House or Rosa Mexicano for dinner and drinks after the matches. The best place to stay is the Twelve Hotel located within walking distance of Atlantic Station. All walking around Atlantic Station is very safe and secure. Within a short drive or MARTA train ride you can visit the World of Coca-Cola or visit the beautiful Centennial Olympic Park, the site of the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympic Games. Fans 5 While the general sports fans of Atlanta get a lot of criticism for not being as loyal or diehard as other large market sports cities, it couldn't be more opposite when it comes to tennis. The tennis community in Atlanta loves this sport and it shows with the fan turnout. The United States Tennis Association has reported that over a quarter of all of their membership is based in the USTA Southern region. That stat makes it very clear why the tournament is able to receive the amount of support that it does. International players beware, as it can be very hard to play against one of the many Americans in the tournament each year with the amount of fan following that they receive. Just look at who's won the championship in each of the first four years, all Americans! Atlanta tennis fans are a very knowledgeable, friendly, and welcoming group of people who unconditionally love tennis. I was even lucky enough to be a part of the wave during my visit in 2013! Access 4 Overall, The Atlanta Open tournament has pretty good access, but not without a few abstract speed bumps along the way. The first being traffic, as at any time of the day it seems to be an issue around downtown Atlanta. It is smart to factor in some extra time when traveling to the tournament by car. The tournament is located right off of I-75/I-85, and parking is just a couple of blocks off of the exit. Signs will direct you to your designated lot, but it may be wise to familiarize yourself with the tournament directions and parking ahead of time. If traveling to Atlanta by air, you will want to plan your trip through Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, which is one of the largest in the world. Another great mode of transportation option to get to the tournament is MARTA, the public transit system of Atlanta. Depending on where you are coming from, transfer to either the Red or Yellow line, exit at the "Arts Center" stop, and board the tournament shuttle which takes you directly to Atlantic Station. While there is a cost to MARTA and the shuttle, it may be well worth it when compared to gas prices and the traffic situation. Be sure to consult the MARTA Map. Once you have arrived at Atlantic Station you will find the grounds to be very pleasant and easily accessible. Restrooms are located on the west side of Stadium Court in temporary buildings and as expected get very crowded between matches, so it is recommended to visit them on changeovers before the matches are over if your bladder permits. The tournament is handicap accessible, with the designated elevator and seating located at the top of the west stands. Return on Investment 5 When taking everything into consideration, this tournament ensures fans a great bang for their buck. Bearing in mind that the tournament annually plays host to multiple top 30 players in the world, and that the prices for this experience are relatively low in all categories (tickets, concessions, souvenirs, and parking). While tickets do have a very wide range in pricing, it is possible to get in the gates for under $10 during certain sessions. As with all tournaments, the prices gradually increase as the tournament continues on towards the championships. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time, or on the day of at the box office. Extras 3 The Atlanta Open definitely deserves a few extra credit points. Certainly the most important extra point is given due to the fantastic location at Atlantic Station. Not enough praise can be given for the great setting that the area provides for the tournament. Other extraordinary aspects of the tournament include outstanding customer service by representatives located around the grounds, tremendous sightlines, and the wonderful stadium, as most tournaments at this level aren't nearly as nice. Final Thoughts While the Atlanta Open may not be an international tennis destination such as the Grand Slams, it's without a doubt a wonderful little tennis getaway with brilliant on-court action, tasty food and drinks, a relaxed but exciting atmosphere, with a ton of friendly and welcoming people. Top 5 things to make sure you do while at the Atlanta Open at Atlantic Station: • Visit the exhibits around Atlantic Station including the USTA Family Zone • Go to the top of the stands to get the best views of the stadium court and the city in the backdrop • Get autographs after the matches and at the practice courts • Watch a match in each stadium court for a different atmosphere Things to keep in mind when attending the Atlanta Open: • Be sure to pack a small bag to take into the tournament to store your extra-long sleeves, sunscreen (aerosol sunscreen cans are prohibited), and hat since the weather varies (small bags are allowed in the tournament after a brief inspection, of course) • Bring a camera and autograph pen (necessities when your favorite player is on the practice courts)

Photo Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.42 Credit Union 1 Arena 525 S Racine St Chicago, IL 60607 UIC Flames website Credit Union 1 Arena website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 8,000 Sparking A Flame in Chicago The UIC Flames are members of the Missouri Valley Conference and play their home games at the Credit Union 1 Arena. The building opened on campus in 1982 as the UIC Pavillion but changed names in 2018 after a $9.3 million naming agreement of 15 years. It is a multi-purpose venue with lower and upper bowl seating, but only the lower level is open for Flames games. The horseshoe-shaped concourse does not allow fans to walk around the entire arena, but it does offer a majority of unrestricted views of the court from the lone concourse. The building features a distinct halo-shaped ribbon board that displays the score and a video screen at the open stage end of the building for player stats and other information. There are also ribbon boards above the lower seating bowl. This venue has been home to the team for over 40 years, and it has hosted the NCAA Tournament three times in 1998, 2002, and 2004. The school's best years were when the late Jimmy Collins guided the Flames to 9 winning seasons between 1996-2010. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand open called the Racine Street Grill. The food offerings include hot dogs, fries, hamburgers and cheeseburgers, pizza, nachos, pretzels, and popcorn. Ice cream and cotton candy are available for the sweet tooth, and Pepsi products are sold in 24 and 32-oz sizes. In a separate beer kiosk, Goose Island 312 is available in 20 oz cans. The hot dogs appear to be boiled but are quite large. The Prices range from $5 to $7 for food options, while beer prices fetch up to $12 apiece. There is not a lot of variety, but more than enough to satisfy a craving during a game. Atmosphere 3 The Flames do a nice job providing a collegiate atmosphere for its fans. It includes a court area dressed up nicely with school imagery, Chicago city images, and player introductions surrounded by sparklers. Cheerleaders and a dance team entertain fans during breaks in the action, along with a small band behind the net. Sparky is the team’s mascot, and he is very entertaining, shaking hands with fans and doing backflips on the center court with the cheer team. Fans are provided comfort with movie-style recliner seats at one end, along with three rows of court-side seating. The Impact Courtside Club, located in the open area courtside, provides fans with catered food, a bar, comfortable cushioned seating, and flat-screen televisions. This area also features retired jersey numbers and past championship banners. Neighborhood 4 Little Italy is only half a mile from the campus but not within walking distance of the arena. However, they are worth visiting before or after the game for a meal. They include Tuscany on Taylor’s, The Rosebud’s, and Conte Di Savio deli and Italian market. The Haymarket Pub & Brewery is on the other side of I-290 and offers pub favorites, a wide variety of craft beers, pizza, and regional favorites. There are a couple of small, local favorites south of the arena: Al’s #1 Beef for Italian beef sandwiches and Jim’s Original, which is home to a Maxwell Street Polish with grilled onions. Busy Burger is a trendy spot for burgers and sandwiches. Fans 3 UIC Flames games don't sell out, and fan interaction depends on the score of the game. If it is a blowout, there is not much noise, but if it's back and forth (especially against an in-state rival or cross-city foe), there’ll be plenty of chatter. The game we attended saw the Flames build a 14-point lead and be in full control until midway through the second half. This is when Illinois State mounted a comeback to cut the deficit to 4 points. The result was the ISU fans making more noise, but it quickly shifted to the UIC crowd once the Flames pulled away. Access 5 The Credit Union 1 Arena is near the intersection of I-90 and I-290. The parking deck is adjacent and an east walk to the entrance. Inside the building, the concourse offers fans access to the seating bowl, concession stands, bathrooms, and the main lobby. The arena is on campus and accessible by CTA buses, rapid transit trains, and the Dan Ryan Expressway. The Union and Northwestern commuter train stations are also nearby. Return on Investment 3 The price of tickets is $15 per game, and parking is $5. However, concession prices are a bit high for the MVC, but that is no fault of the university. A beer is $12, and a hot dog is $5, perhaps a tad high for a Flames game, but perhaps prices are established for all events held at the former UIC Pavillion. Extras 3 Sparky is the official mascot and is active, social, friendly, and energetic. There is an open view of the court from the concourse, so fans won't miss any of the action. For an event in Chicago, the parking garage costs $5, an amazing deal. Final Thoughts There are many options for college basketball in Chicago. A UIC Flames game at Credit Union 1 Arena is an affordable experience and offers enough amusement. It is worth a visit when in town. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Prudential Center FANFARE Score: 4.00 Prudential Center 25 Lafayette St Newark, NJ 07102 Seton Hall Pirates website Prudential Center website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 18,500 The Hall or The Rock Seton Hall – or The Hall as many refer to it – is a private Catholic research university in South Orange, New Jersey. It is named Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Many people know more about the basketball program than the university itself. The men's basketball team has appeared in many NCAA Division I men's basketball tournaments and achieved national renown after making it to the final of the 1989 tournament and losing in overtime to the Michigan Wolverines. The school's athletic teams are known as the Pirates. The Prudential Center replaced the Meadowlands Arena (and its various names) as the home to both the Pirates and the New Jersey Devils of the NHL. The arena is also a popular concert and event venue. Food & Beverage 4 The Prudential Center's food offerings are varied. There is also a nice emphasis on local New Jersey food offerings. Try something with Taylor Ham on it, it will be worth it. The prices are high. Very high, but that can somewhat be expected for a venue of this high caliber. Atmosphere 5 The arena blocks off the upper level of seats for Hall games. I was expecting this to be a bad idea and to limit the atmosphere, but it does not. It does make the lower bowl seem much more intimate than one would expect. The cheerleaders and dance teams, along with the mascot, known as "The Pirate", create that great game feeling one expects for a Big East team. It almost feels like an on-campus venue. There is a very large scoreboard that offers great information and viewing. There are even smaller screens underneath so everyone should have a good view. Prudential Center Scoreboard, Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 Newark is a very urban environment where one should use caution when not in the larger crowds before or after the game. It is a short walk to many parking options or the nearby Penn Station, but if there is no crowd around, it may feel a bit lonely. Use caution and you should be fine. There are some good restaurants near the venue. We recommend American Whiskey Newark and Redd's Biergarten. The Ironbound neighborhood past the train station offers many great food and drink options. One should look into parking at Iberia Tavern & Restaurant, that way you get good value parking as well as a great pre-game meal. Fans 5 It is not an on-campus arena, but the crowd is great and makes the venue a much more intimate and enjoyable feel than one may expect. Access 4 There are many train options to both Newark Penn Station as well as to Newark Broad Street Station. Penn is within a nice walking distance, but Broad Street Station is further away and you may need to grab a light rail trip to cut down that distance. There are also many parking lots around the arena with prices that start at around $10. The closer you park, expect more traffic after the game. Return on Investment 3 The prices of food are not the only thing that is not very cheap, as tickets, especially for Big East rivalry games, can be quite expensive. Expect to pay different prices depending on the opponent. Extras 4 The cheer squad and The Pirate will do things such as throwing t-shirts into the squad, as well as mingling with fans. The video screen may be one of the largest seen at an arena and is an extra all of its own. Prudential has an attached Grammy Museum Experience, an interactive experience, which could make a great visit before or after a game. Check out some of the high school hockey sweaters as part of the enormous display inside the main entrance. Final Thoughts Seton Hall and the Prudential Center belong in the discussion for best New York City area sports venues to attend. It has as close to an on-campus environment as one will get to an off-campus venue.

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

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 BlueBet Stadium Mulgoa Rd Penrith, NSW 2750 Australia Penrith Panthers website BlueBet Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 22,500 Penrith Panthers at BlueBet The Penrith Panthers were admitted to what is now known as the National Rugby League in 1967 however didn’t experience real success until the late 1980s and early 1990s. The club won its maiden premiership in 1991. Penrith won their second title in 2003. After experiencing some lean years more recently, the club is once again challenging for premiership success in the early 2020s. The Panthers represent a working-class area located on the western edge of the Sydney metropolitan area at the foot of the Blue Mountains. BlueBet Stadium opened the same year Penrith entered the competition and currently has a capacity of 22,500. The stadium is owned by Penrith City Council, with the Panthers being the sole major tenant. A smattering of high-level soccer and international rugby league matches have also been held here. Food & Beverage 3 Most visitors will enter the stadium via the western entrances. The forecourt immediately beyond the turnstiles is the best place to purchase your refreshments. There’s a reasonable selection of food items which cater to most tastes. The West Bar is also close by, however, expect to spend some time in the queue to purchase your drinks. Food outlets around the stadium offer the standard fare: burgers, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, hot chips, and soft drinks. Expect to pay between $10-$15 for a decent feed and a further $5 for a drink. Other vendors within the forecourt offer wares such as pizza and “toasties.” The bar offers several types of beer: Iron Jack, Toohey’s New, Hahn Super Dry, and Hahn Premium Light. Prices are around $8, with a $1 discount for members. Premixed spirits and wine are also available. Atmosphere 4 The grandstands are reserved seating, but much of the ground-level seating is designated as general admission. Be aware that the northern hill is largely a family area, which means no alcohol. This is enforced by security. Ushers guard the reserved seating areas. The southern hill has minimal elevation so large numbers of fans stand in this area. Plenty of families bring chairs and blankets which is a good idea. The eastern stand receives the afternoon sun. The branding and signage around the ground leave you in doubt that this is Penrith territory. The façade of the western stand features banners of the current team. The top of the eastern stand is adorned with the names of club legends such as Craig Gower and Greg Alexander. Neighborhood 3 Penrith is a major centre of Western Sydney, with the local area being one of the most populous in the state. The Penrith Panthers Leagues Club is one of the largest registered clubs in NSW. It is the closest and most attractive option for entertainment close to the stadium. There are numerous food options including burgers, pizza, seafood, steak, noodles, and more. Other activities that might be of interest are a driving range where you hit a lake and a cable wakeboarding water park. In the same area across the road are an indoor skydiving centre and several chain restaurants including McDonald’s and Outback Steakhouse. Pubs close by including the Australian Arms, one of the oldest pubs in the district. There’s also plenty of pubs closer to the CBD and a Westfield Shopping Centre. Some sporting and recreation facilities are nearby. The Nepean River is one of the major geographical features of the area, along with Penrith Lake which includes both the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium, both venues built for the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics. The Penrith Emus Shute Shield rugby club plays at Nepean Rugby Park and the Penrith Paceway next door has harness racing on Thursday nights. The world heritage-listed Blue Mountains are also easily accessible from Penrith, by either rail or road. The Mountains effectively mark the western edge of the Sydney metropolitan area and form part of the Great Dividing Range, which extends almost the length of the continent from north to south. Many of the historic towns are worth visiting including Leura, Wentworth Falls, and the major towns of Katoomba and Lithgow. The natural beauty of the area is well worth a visit, including “The Three Sisters” rock formation and Jenolan Caves. There’s plenty of opportunities for bushwalking and outdoor adventuring but be sure to prepare properly and take appropriate precautions. In summary, there’s plenty to do in the local area but in Western Sydney cars are king – so be prepared to drive anywhere outside of the precinct across Mulgoa Rd. Forming part of the Panthers precinct just across the road, the Mercure Penrith is the obvious choice for accommodation and a short walk from the stadium. Fans 4 Penrith is a working-class area. The locals are proud of their town and their football team. Crowds have once again increased as the Panthers have begun to experience more success on the field. The COVID impacted the 2020 season aside, average attendance in recent years is around 14,000 which is certainly enough to create an exciting and dynamic atmosphere. The Panthers have healthy rivalries with other western Sydney teams, with the biggest arguably being the Parramatta Eels. Access 3 While the stadium is accessible by public transport, the majority of fans drive. Expect some congestion around local roads as game time nears. Visitors traveling from other areas of Sydney will arrive via the Mulgoa Rd exit from the M4 Western Motorway. There is limited free parking within the Panthers complex, but this can fill quite quickly. There are also relatively cheap paid parking options at the Paceway on the northern side of the stadium (Ransley St) and the cricket club on the southern side (Station St) which will run you about $5. The nearest railway station is 10 mins walk from the stadium. There is a box office just outside the entry but it’s just as easy to buy online and either print them at home or have the link sent to your phone. Fans tend to mill about outside the entrance waiting for friends or family. There’s a bag check at the entrance, but overall, there are no difficulties or hassles when entering. The concourse is quite easy to navigate, although it’s a little congested at the southern end. Generally, there are no issues with moving around the various areas should you like to move around during the game. The bathrooms are a bit old but serviceable. Return on Investment 4 Adult tickets range from $35 general admission through to $60 for the most expensive “Diamond” reserved seats. Children from the age of 2 require a ticket regardless of where they sit. Family passes that admit 4 people are a reasonable value when compared to single tickets. Food and beverage prices are reasonable compared to other NRL venues and cheap parking is welcomed. Extras 2 Penrith has capitalised on their name with a “Pink Panther” theme and wears pink jerseys for the annual Women in League round. Final Thoughts The Panthers are once again one of the hottest tickets in town with a team to rival any other club in the NRL. Penrith is also a gateway to exploring the beautiful Blue Mountains and beyond, and thus should be a destination for all visitors to this part of the world.

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Athletic Park 1 Birch Ave SE Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0E6 Medicine Hat Mavericks website Athletic Park website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 2,200 Summer Evening in ‘The Hat’ Athletic Park has been the home of baseball in Medicine Hat for more than 40 years. The Pioneer League A’s played there in 1977, then were replaced by the Blue Jays in 1978. The Blue Jays rookie affiliate stayed in Medicine Hat until 2002, when they moved to Pulaski, Virginia. When the Blue Jays moved out, the Mavericks moved in. Playing in the Western Major Baseball League, a collegiate summer league that operates out of Saskatchewan and Alberta, the Mavericks have won three league championships and two division championships in their 17 seasons. The diamond itself is located just to the east of the downtown core, right on the banks of the Old Man River. Major river floods in 1995 and 2013 did significant damage to the park, resulting in a number of repairs and upgrades as well as the construction of a massive berm beyond the outfield wall to keep river waters in the river valley and out of the city proper. Food & Beverage 4 A single food concession and a single adult beverage concession can be found on the outer ring of the grandstand, which is ostensibly the concourse area. For a typical crowd of around 800 fans, this seems to be more than adequate to handle the crowds. While the menu is small and simple, the food is very good. Try the Burger Combo: for $10 you get a freshly grilled burger a generously sized bag of Old Dutch potato chips, and a bottle of pop. In other venues, this combo could easily run you $15 and the burger could be sitting under a heat lamp waiting for you. The quality and value is much higher at Athletic Park. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available. Over at the “Bar” stand, there is a surprisingly wide variety of options for a relatively small stadium. Again, prices here are pretty reasonable ($6.25 for domestic beer; $7.25 for premium beverages). A couple food trucks are also located behind the grandstand, adding a nice bit of variety to the food mix. Expect to pay a bit more if you’re going to one of these options, but also expect to get some quality food. Atmosphere 3 As with most of the WMBL diamonds, the overall atmosphere is low-key but pleasant, with people there to enjoy the warm summer weather as much as see a ballgame. The crowd applauds at the right moments and appears engaged. The diamond itself is clean and tidy, with appropriate appointments, comfortable seats (the bleachers seats are standard metal benches), and good sight lines in all locations around the grandstand. There are some signs that the diamond needs a bit of TLC (some rust or worn paint here and there), but nothing obtrusive. There are numerous pictures of teams past and championship banners throughout the facility, giving the place a sense of history and really giving it a feeling of home for the Mavericks Neighbourhood 3 Athletic Park is located east of downtown, in a residential neighbourhood. It’s a nice, quiet area in an older part of town. But for the most part, it’s also few blocks on foot before you get to anything else of note. Just beyond the left field wall is a large berm that was built in 2013 to mitigate the area against floods from the Old Man River, which runs through the heart of the city. You can actually sit down on the hill (or bring a lawn chair) to watch the game from beyond the outfield wall, if you’re so inclined. On the other side of the berm is one of the larger rivers in the province of Alberta. It’s peaceful and picturesque, a lovely place for a walk. A couple blocks to the east you’ll find Lion’s Park, which features picnic areas, playground areas, tennis courts, fitness trails, and other goodies. Heading west from the diamond you have to travel a few blocks before you reach a small commercial area nestled up against the railway tracks that divide east Medicine Hat from west. On N. Railway St. you’ll find the Mainliner Pub, which has a reputation for fun karaoke and a recently revised menu. There are a couple other options if you look hard enough, but food options are few and far between in this part of town. Crossing the railway tracks into downtown, you’ll find more food options and a bit of sightseeing, including the World’s Largest Chess Set, as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Situated between the Court of Queen’s Bench Building and the Public Library on 1 St. S.E. it is an interesting curiosity to check out while you’re in town. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the immediate vicinity, the rest of the city is easy and quick to get to—one of the advantages of being in a city this size is that you’re never too far away from anywhere. Fans 4 As in most WMBL parks, the fans are fairly laid back and chill, but friendly and engaged. Cheers and boos happen when a big play is made and folks are happy to chat with new people in the stands. The Mavericks draw about 800 fans per game, which is right around the league average. That leaves a fair bit of room between groups of people in a stadium with 2,200 seating capacity, but it doesn’t seem empty. Just a comfortable amount of room, the way Canadians like it. Access 3 If you aren’t familiar with the layout of Medicine Hat, finding your way across the train tracks from the downtown core to the diamond might be a bit of a challenge. However, once you find your way along the river under the tracks, the rest of the way is pretty easy. Parking is free at the diamond and there’s lots of space. You might not want to park right at the stadium lot though, as this could put you in the line of fire for a foul ball or two. A safer location might be kitty corner from the diamond (to the south-west), in a lot right across the street from the city’s curling club. City transit also runs regularly by Athletic Park. Fares are $3.25 per person. Return on Investment 4 Bleacher seating for adults is $12, with front row seats costing $16. Children under 6 are free in the bleachers and only $8 in the front row seats. You can rent out one of the patios along the third base side for larger groups for $30 per person (for up to 68 people in the Source One Realty Patio), which also includes food and drink as well as servers taking care of you all evening. Overall, this is an excellent deal for a night at the ballpark to see some talented young athletes performing. Extras 3 The Mavericks have a mascot, Monty, roaming the stands during the game and helping with promotions. All the typical between-innings promotions that you might expect to see happen here. There is a nicely appointed Souvenir Shack along the third base concourse area, providing fans with all manner of hats, shirts, and other goodies like blankets, tote bags, and mini-bats. Final Thoughts The Mavericks have been a consistent contender in the WMBL for most of their franchise history. Coming out to see a game in a lovely, relaxing environment, with friendly people is a great way to spend a summer evening in “The Hat.”

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Elks Field 1601 2 Ave East Brooks, AB T1R 1B7, Canada Brooks Bombers website Elks Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 681 Brooks Bombers Off To A Good Start The Western Major Baseball League has been in operation since 2001 as a top-level collegiate summer league. Several WMBL alumni have been drafted by Major League teams over the years, including reliever Jim Henderson, who broke into the MLB with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2012. Two new teams were added to the Western Division for the 2016 season bringing the league up to a total of 12 teams. One of the new teams is the Brooks Bombers. Brooks is a small city between Calgary and Medicine Hat on the Trans-Canada Highway in southern Alberta (closer to Medicine Hat than Calgary). With a population of more than 13,000, Brooks has a thriving business community, driven by the oil and gas industry as well as agriculture. Brooks is also one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada and as a result is known as “The City of 100 Hellos” because of the many different languages spoken. The Bombers play at Elks Field, part of the Quad Ball Diamond Complex on the east side of the city. The field is quite new, having opened in 2014, and has the look and feel of a new facility. Food & Beverage 3 Elks Field’s grandstand has a concession stand built into the north (third base) side. The menu is pretty standard fare: hot dogs and hamburgers, chocolate bars and cans of pop among other things. My cheeseburger ($4.50) was fresh and tasty and you’re able to load them up with your choice of condiments from a table to the immediate left of the concession booth. Next door to the primary concession, to the left of the condiment stand, is a stand serving beer and Palm Bay coolers for fans looking for an adult beverage. Beer options include Bud Light as well as a couple more “exotic” options, such as Harvest Moon and Wild Honey from the Nelson Brewing Company in BC. Atmosphere 3 The feeling in the crowd is very laid back but pleasant enough. It seems like many of the people in the stands know each other as there are numerous conversations going on throughout the game. I get the sense that most people in attendance are there to primarily to enjoy a pleasant evening out with friends and family and the game going on is almost secondary to the experience (it perhaps didn’t help that the Bombers were getting pretty soundly defeated at the game of this review). There isn’t much energy or excitement in the crowd. Again, it isn’t unpleasant; just not the boisterous, engaged atmosphere I look for. Because the field and the team are so new, there aren’t many cues to tie the team to the diamond yet. No championship pennants (yet) or anything of that sort. There is, however, one key touchstone for the community: the scoreboard in left field is dedicated to the memory of Riley Martin, a local teen who was active in the Brooks sports community who died of cancer in 2014. I think this is a worthy tribute and a good foundation for connecting the community to the field for years to come. Something else of note: unless you’re in the grandstand, the sight lines around the field are less than perfect. If you’re in the bleachers on the first or third base sides, you’ll find that your view of the outfield corner on your side is probably at least partially blocked. Likewise, from the patio area on the third base side, between the Bombers dugout and the bleachers, your view of much of left field is obstructed by the dugout structure, and you may or may not get a look at the scoreboard from where you’re sitting. Likewise, while there is a ton of room for people who prefer to stand—between the grandstand and the bleachers, behind the patio, and down the foul lines—chances are your sight lines will be partially obstructed in one way or other if you choose this option. Neighbourhood 2 Elks Field is located on the south side of a residential community on the far south east of the city. Consequently, there is nothing in the immediate vicinity except houses. Should you wish to grab a bite to eat before or after the game, you’ll be going for a drive. The closest restaurant I could find is Ace’s Lounge and Grill, about 10 blocks away and tucked into the industrial district. A little bit further west you’ll reach 2 Street W, which is the primary artery in the city, where most every other restaurant and bar can be found. Here you’ll find all the usual franchise places as well as some local stuff such as the Mango Tree, which is a well-liked East Indian restaurant. When all is said and done, the good news in a small city like Brooks is that you’re never more than a 10-minute drive from anything, so you won’t have to go far to get anywhere, but you’ll still have to plan on taking the car rather than walking. Fans 3 The fans in the crowd seem quite pleasant, but seem at least as interested in simply hanging out with each other as they are in seeing a ballgame. They seem to lack a passion for the game and their new team, but perhaps this will come in time. In their favour, on the other hand, quite a large number of fans are geared up in Bombers caps, jerseys, tee-shirts and other memorabilia, which suggests they are getting behind their team and supporting it. So maybe they are indeed passionate about the Bombers but don’t express it vocally yet. Access 4 Brooks is a relatively small city, so getting around is pretty easy and I was able to find the diamond without a map, signage or detailed directions. The parking lot, on the far east end of the Quad Ball Diamond Complex, seems to have plenty of space for all the vehicles and the parking is free, so that’s a good thing. As the park’s seating capacity is less than 700, the lot empties quickly, even with just a single entrance/exit. Once you’re through the main gate you’re into the multi-diamond park. Paved walking paths separate the diamonds from each other and provide lots of room for people to make their way around. They could probably double or triple the number of bleacher seats around the park without a significant impact on a fan’s ability to get around the park. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to a Bombers game are all general admission and rush seating. They cost just $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for youths (13-17 years old). Kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. That’s a pretty good price to see baseball played by athletes who could find themselves drafted one day. Extras 2 A Kinsmen-sponsored Play Area is located behind the grandstand for the youngsters. It is completely covered by mesh so there’s no danger of a stray foul ball hitting someone having fun in there. The Bombers have a well-stocked souvenir store at the back of the grandstand which is open prior to and at the end of games. Here you can get your hands on all manner of shirts, hats, and other Bombers swag. Final Thoughts Checking out a Brooks Bombers game was a nice little treat for me. There is still room for the franchise to grow and improve their fan experience, but they’re off to a good start. As the team matures, chances are the product on and off the field will continue to improve.

Photos by Bart Wilhelm, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Hamlin Sports Complex 1544 5th Street Springfield, OR 97477 Springfield Drifters website Hamlin Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 2,500 Drifters in Springfield In 2022, the summer collegiate West Coast League expanded into Springfield, Oregon. The new team was named the Springfield Drifters, in honor of the “slow-drifting lifestyle” of the town and the nearby Willamette River. Springfield, Oregon has long been believed to be the Springfield featured in the TV series, “The Simpsons.” A brand new baseball facility was built for the club and is also being used by Bushnell College, who revived their baseball program after a 50-year hiatus. Food & Beverage 4 Hamlin Sports Complex is a bit unique because all of their food is supplied by food trucks. Down the left field line are two trucks, Blessed Mess BBQ and Bea’s Ice Cream. Both trucks are contracted through the 2022 season. In the future, the truck options could change. Blessed Mess features burgers, walking tacos, and various Grab and Go sandwiches. While they’re a bit pricey (1/4 smash burgers start at $10 with an upcharge to add pork, brisket, or sausage, and walking tacos with meat start at $15), the flavor is very good. They also feature a Grab and Go station by the right field patio. Bea’s truck has all your dessert needs. They have a few different flavors of ice cream at $5/scoop, and several funnel cake options starting at $8. There are also three permanent beverage stands, one down each baseline and one behind home plate. All three feature similar products. 16-ounce cans of Coors Light and Pabst Blue Ribbon can be found for $6. 19-ounce cans of Sisters Hard Seltzer are $8 and various Oregon craft beers are $9 for draft and $10 for cans. Hard cider and wine are also available. Bottle of Pepsi products and Gatorade are $5 each. Atmosphere 3 Hamlin is a brand new facility that opened in 2022. It definitely has a new-stadium feel to it. Everything is in great shape and the (artificial) field turf looks immaculate. I’m told that they bought the best turf available and it shows. The entire field is turf including the base paths and the warning tracks. The park has an official capacity of 2,500. There are about 750 permanent chairback seats that extend from home plate to both dugouts. Beyond those are metal bleachers on both sides, followed by patio areas where there is ample room to stand if you’d like. The stadium dimensions are 330 feet down both lines and 375 feet to straightaway center field, and the wall is a consistent 12 feet high. The stadium’s lone scoreboard is above the right-centerfield fence. While new, it’s a simple scoreboard that only gives the score, the count, and the runs/hits/errors. No video or player information. The team mascot is a dog named “Rapid.” He’s dressed in a fishing jacket as if he’s ready to spend a day at the lake. Neighborhood 2 The complex is built next to a middle school. There is a high school baseball field and a track on both sides of Hamlin. There’s nothing else in the immediate walking area. Downtown Springfield is about a mile away. There are plenty of local restaurants downtown. I opted for some clam chowder and a couple pints at The Public House, a converted church that’s now a pub. There are several motels and hotels in the Springfield/Eugene area (Eugene, home of the University of Oregon, is only a few miles away and is part of the same metropolitan area), but the prices can be very steep. On weekends, the cheapest motel can run almost $200. During the week it’s still around $80. I actually decided to drive an hour north to Salem because I was headed that way the next day and the motel prices were much more reasonable. Fans 3 Since the team is just starting out, the fan base hasn’t been totally established yet. There’s also the tricky situation of the Eugene Emeralds minor league team being less than ten minutes away. On nights when the Ems are in town, the Drifters’ attendance goes way down. The Emeralds are in danger of losing their team, though, due to stadium upgrade necessities. If they’re forced to leave, that would obviously help Springfield a great deal. On the night I was there, there were about 200 people in attendance, but they were a loud bunch who stayed to the end. I found a spot on the right field patio and stood around with a bunch of locals who told me all about the local bars and breweries. Access 4 The park is fairly easy to get to. It’s not very far off of I-5 or the I-105 spur. The actual address of the park is 1544 5th Street. The parking lot entrance is off of Centennial Blvd. There’s plenty of free parking on site. If you’re staying locally, there is a bus stop at the corner of Centennial and Pioneer Parkway. There are two gates, one behind home plate and one by the left field foul pole. Both gates have a ticket booth. Gates open an hour before the games start. Currently there are no permanent restrooms. There are about a dozen porta-potties throughout the park. A player’s clubhouse is under construction and when it’s done (2023), there should be regular bathrooms. Return on Investment 3 At $6 for general admission, the park is very affordable to enter. Metal bleachers are $10 and the nicer chairback seats are $12. Beer prices are on par with other stadiums. The food is quite expensive though. That’s the downside to bringing in food trucks. Good quality, but you pay for it. But if you just need a quality hot dog, you can find one for $4. Extras 2 One point goes to the new stadium. Most parks in summer collegiate leagues are older parks that are repurposed for a new team. This one was actually built for the team. One point goes to the friendly staff. I asked a lot of questions, and everyone from the beer lady to the ushers to the owner and GM were all very friendly and helpful. Final Thoughts Hamlin Sports Complex is one of the nicest stadiums I have seen in the West Coast League. It definitely feels like a real baseball park and not just a community field that they’re using for a summer league. It’ll be interesting to see how their popularity grows if the Eugene Emeralds are forced to move elsewhere.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Yakima County Stadium 1220 Pacific Ave Yakima, WA 98901 Yakima Valley Pippins website Yakima County Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 3,000 It’s Apple Time The Yakima Valley Pippins are a collegiate wood bat baseball team based in Yakima, Washington. They are a member of the West Coast League and began play in 2014 at the 3,000-seat Yakima County Stadium. They replaced the Yakima Bears of the Northwest League, who relocated to Hillsboro, Oregon, and were renamed the Hillsboro Hops. The team is named for the Pippin apple variety. Yakima County Stadium is a baseball stadium that opened in 1993 and was the home field of the Yakima Bears minor league team for twenty seasons. The stadium is located at the northwest corner of the Central Washington State Fairgrounds and is north of the Yakima SunDome, a 6,195-seat multi-purpose arena. Food & Beverage 4 The food options are a pretty consistent slate of offerings, although not always exciting. The food prices are very similar to most minor league baseball stadiums. They are very fair and offer many choices. Most entrees are $4 and up and won’t break your wallet. Look out for the value menu options. The food stands close before the game is over. Atmosphere 4 The stadium has seats, benches with backs, and benches without backs. The best value is to get a general admission seat and sit with your back to the stadium wall. The crowd should be small enough that most fans can do this if they desire. The stands sit fairly elevated from the field. There is a view of the hills beyond the wall and offer a nice view during the game. The stadium, although only built in the 1990’s, is pretty antiquated compared to most minor league stadiums. For summer collegiate baseball it is a pretty nice facility. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located within the Central Washington State Fairgrounds so there may be other events going on at the same time as the game. The rest of the neighborhood right around the stadium is pretty underwhelming and you will want to explore options elsewhere around town. The Yakima Valley has many beer and wine options for pre and post game options. The list of wineries alone will make your head spin. Another thing one will want to do in the area is to visit a farm stand and get fresh apples or other fresh fruit. Fans 4 There are some hardcore fans with seats around the home plate area. They will be loud and into all aspects of the game. The fans are pretty traditional minor league style fans. Some are very knowledgeable about the game, while others are there as part of a family or a group and may be less interested in the actual game. Crowds are larger for weekend games while weeknight crowds are going to be a struggle for this level of ball. Access 4 The fairgrounds are pretty easy to find and parking will be plentiful unless other events are extremely large. Parking costs $4. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are cheap, especially for general admission. Watch out for daily specials that can bring the price down. Parking is too expensive for the stadium, but the prices are supposedly controlled by the fairgrounds. Extras 4 There is a free program given to fans when they enter the stadium. The view of the hills beyond the outfield fences offers a great view to enjoy. There are games, such as corn hole, that are free for fans in the area behind the first base side stands. The team does a good job of sticking to the apple theme at all times, whether it is the team mascot or games such as apple bobbing. Final Thoughts The Yakima Valley Pippins and Yakima County Stadium is a perfect spot to watch a summer collegiate league team. The stadium is past its prime for minor league baseball. but is perfect for this level of ball.

Photos Courtesy of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are one of five new teams participating in the Copa de la Diversión and have made a statement with their new identity: the Pensacola Pok-Ta-Tok. Pok-Ta-Pok is an ancient ballgame that was first played in the Americas as early as 1650 B.C.E. It was played with a heavy rubber ball that required players to propel the ball through an elevated hoop using only their hips and torsos - similar to basketball today without the use of players' hands. Many variations of the game existed across Mesoamerica, with courts being preserved today at numerous cultural sites, including Chichen Itza in Mexico. The Aztecs and the Toltecs played the game with ruins of playing courts discovered in Mexico. The game has even enjoyed a resurgence with the annual Pok-Ta-Pok World Cup held in Belize for the past 5-years. The identity was developed by Brandiose artist Jacobo Vidal and the Brandiose team. Vidal, a citizen of Mexico City, incorporated many aspects of his Mexican heritage into the Pok-Ta-Pok brand, including a fierce athlete in authentic, traditional garb playing the sport on the historic Pok-Ta-Pok court overlooked by the El Castillo pyramid at Chichen Itza. It will be written in Mayan script by a Mayan linguist. The team's uniform portrays the athlete striking a ball through a hoop on the jersey's sleeve. On the chest, "Pok-Ta-Pok" is written in Mayan glyphs scripted by a Mayan linguist. Vidal chose the colors to represent traditional Latin American artwork. The name looks to expand the Copa de la Diversión universe by sharing more about the many vibrant cultures and languages that make up Latin America today. Today, approximately 50 million people (10 percent of the population) across Latin America are of indigenous heritage; millions speak languages other than Spanish such as Mayan, Quechua, and Nahuatl, as their first language. “For me, to create these identities and to create these logos that represent my culture, my city, and my people is something that I’m proud of and thankful for,” Designer Jacobo Vidal said in a press release. “I tried to represent the most traditional form of the game. The most epic form of the game, a form that makes people feel proud and identified.” The team will debut the new look on May 5 against the Mississippi Braves and play two more games on June 17 and September 16 this season. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 David E. Hastings Stadium at Exhibition Park 70 Division St Guelph, ON N1H 2B7 Guelph Royals website David E. Hastings Stadium at Exhibition Park website Year Opened: 1925 Capacity: 1,400 Intercounty Royalty In 2022 the Guelph Royals returned to the Intercounty Baseball League. After a 2020 coronavirus absence and opting for another year off in 2021, when the remainder of the IBL teams opted to play, the Royals have filled the void in Wellington County for summer baseball. The amateur IBL, Ontario’s highest caliber baseball outside of the Toronto Blue Jays has been around since 1919, and Guelph’s entry was there at the beginning. Taking the field for the first time in 1861 as the Guelph Maple Leafs and can trace some ownership back to Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame member George Sleeman. Sleeman also founded Silver Creek Brewery, which was reincorporated by his grandson to become Sleeman Brewery, an iconic cornerstone in Guelph. In 1919, after a brief hiatus, the Maple Leafs would join the newly founded Intercounty Baseball League with Kitchener, Galt, and Stratford, and go on to win the first three league championships. After a few name changes, Guelph would settle on the Royals moniker in 1965. The Royals are currently owned by Shawn Fuller and boast nine league championships. The home of the Guelph Royals is currently David E. Hastings Stadium. Located at Exhibition Park, Guelph has played at this particular location since 1925. The current Hastings stadium has been refurbished numerous times with the current grandstand opening in 1987. The stadium is named after David Hastings who was a baseball player from 1943 to 1968 and played for a number of years in the Intercounty Baseball League. He was also the mayor of Guelph from 1958 through 1960. He was only 27 at the time of taking office. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at Hastings Stadium are very affordable. The concession stand has a very simple menu with hot dogs, popcorn, caramel corn, peanuts, freezies, chocolate bars, and sour keys. A variety of soft drinks are available including both Coke and Pepsi. For fans wishing for an alcoholic beverage, there is a beer garden on the third base side of the grounds. Alcohol must be consumed in the beer garden area and is not permitted in the grandstand. Atmosphere 3 Hastings Stadium is located in Exhibition Park. It is fairly typical of Intercounty League facilities that at no point hosted affiliated Minor League Baseball. The baseball grounds are very wide open and spacious, enclosed by a fence on the other side of the nearby hockey arena on the park grounds. The centerpiece of the stadium is the main grandstand which is not dissimilar to the grandstand in Brantford. The grandstand houses the pressbox and maintenance sheds as well as the seating area. The exterior of the grandstand is covered by aluminum siding pretty much everywhere that one might put on their home shed. Team logos and recognition of the championship teams in Guelph (1919, 1920, 1921, 1932, 1970, 1993, 1997, 2003, and 2004) are displayed prominently on the backside of the grandstand exterior. Bleachers and chairbacks are both available in the grandstand, which has a capacity of 1,400. The surrounding area of the ballpark features some massive mature trees and there are plenty of opportunities to watch the game from various perspectives. Picnic tables are available and there is plenty of space for fans who wish to bring their own chair. A new, classic baseball scoreboard can be found beyond the right-centerfield fence. The outfield does have a couple of unique features. The dimensions are symmetrical with 325’ down each of the lines and 369’ to straight away centrefield. However, rather than a curved outfield fence, the centrefield fence is a straight line that meets the right and left field walls at 393’. The outfield fence is also an attractive, yet very unique wooden style. The gameday production in Guelph is very simple. The focus is on the game itself and there are not a ton of bells and whistles and promos to distract the patrons. Basically, the only promo is the 50/50 sale. The sight lines in the park are excellent and the atmosphere is simple and family and community-focused. Neighbourhood 3 David Hastings Stadium is part of Exhibition Park, which is located in the Exhibition Park neighbourhood of Guelph. The park also has other ballparks, walking/running trails, tennis courts, and soccer and football fields. The rest of the neighbourhood is fairly residential, but a short drive will bring fans to some spots for pre and post-game libations. Polestar Hearth, Fixed Gear Brewery, and Park Eatery are good choices. Guelph does offer a number of different sporting options. The Guelph Storm of the OHL and Guelph Nighthawks of the CEBL both play downtown in the Sleeman Centre. The University of Guelph also fields a whole host of athletic teams. The football Gryphons play at Alumni Field, the hockey Gryphons play at the Gryphon Centre Arena and the basketball Gryphons play at the Guelph Gryphons Athletic Centre. If possible, fans should consider trying to catch the annual Frosty Mug game at the Sleeman Centre which pits the Gryphons against the rival Laurier Golden Hawks. Heading east to Downtown Guelph will offer some other things to do including whatever is playing at the River Run Centre. Heading out about 5 km to Woodlawn Road will offer fans the best opportunity to find a place to stay in Guelph. The Holiday Inn Express and Comfort Inn can be found there. Fans 3 It is very difficult to evaluate fans of the Intercounty Baseball League as attendance figures are not published. That being said, the 2022 season seems to have a decent following. That could be because of the presence of former Toronto Blue Jays player Dalton Pompey, or the return of the Royals after a two-year hiatus. Either way, the Royals seem to be drawing a couple of hundred fans per night, which is more than the friends and family crowd that can often be found at Intercounty games. Access 4 David Hastings Stadium is located in Exhibition Park, which is located in the Exhibition Park neighbourhood of Guelph. Exhibition Park is west of Downtown Guelph and not terribly difficult to get to. The park is west of Highway 6 by a couple of blocks, so a little driving through the city will be necessary. The stadium is at the north end of the park and there is plenty of free parking near the stadium the park. Patrons should be considerate of not parking too close to the stadium for fear of their car getting plunked by a foul ball. For fans who wish to take public transit, there are buses available on London, Westmount, and Woolwich Roads which will require a small walk to the stadium. Fans interested in public transit should check out the Guelph Transit website for fares, maps, and schedules. The accessibility of the stadium is pretty good. Although there are stairs to get into the grandstand, of course, there are plenty of areas where fans with mobility issues can watch from. There are washrooms accessible from the outside in the nearby hockey arena which provide enough service for the crowd at hand. Thankfully, portable toilets are not found at Hastings Stadium nor are they relied upon. Return on Investment 4 As will all Intercounty Baseball League experiences, the Guelph Royals offer tremendous value for little money. Tickets for the Royals are $10. Parking is free and concessions are very reasonable. The game day experience is pure and simple and fans will not drown in endless promotions or distractions. Extras 2 An extra mark for the longevity of the Guelph Royals having been around for over 100 years and being a founding member of the Intercounty Baseball League. An extra mark for winning the very first IBL championship in 1919 (as well as the next two). Final Thoughts It is nothing but a positive to have one of the cornerstone franchises of the Intercounty Baseball League back on the diamond. The Guelph Royals have been welcomed back with open arms after a covid hiatus. David Hastings Stadium is as competitive as any stadium in the IBL and has some unique features. Taking in a Royals game will, no doubt, satisfy sports fans desiring a pure baseball experience without all of the bells and whistles. Royalty has its privileges. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Hoy Field 800 Florida Ave NE Washington, DC 20002 Gallaudet Bison website Hoy Field website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 500 Bisons Of DC Gallaudet University is a federally-chartered private university for the education of the Deaf and hard of hearing located in Washington, D.C. The school is named for Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a pioneer in the education of the deaf. Founded in 1864, Gallaudet University was originally a grammar school for both deaf and blind children. In 1954 the school became Gallaudet College and in 1986 it was renamed Gallaudet University. The physical campus is on the National Register of Historic Places. The most popular majors at Gallaudet University are business, visual and performing arts, communication studies, physical education, and psychology. The Bison is a member of the North Eastern Athletic Conference (except for the football program which plays in the Eastern Collegiate Football Conference) and play at the Division III level. Hoy Field is named after William Ellsworth “Dummy” Hoy, the first deaf baseball player to have a professional career in the major leagues. He played for several teams from 1888 to 1902, including the Cincinnati Reds, Washington Senators, and the Washington Statesmen/Nationals. Food & Beverage 1 There are no permanent food options at Hoy Field. After researching some posted information about changes coming to the neighboring softball complex, it looks like a potential concession stand is on the design plans. One would assume with their shared locale, that the softball field will use the same facility. Until any potential upgrade, there is a table set up and a grill for small food offerings. The prices are reasonable. Atmosphere 3 This a pretty simple northeastern college baseball stadium. A small metal sits right behind the home plate and protective screen. There is a very simple scoreboard located in right center. There is also a PA system with an announcer and music is played between at-bats. The university’s softball complex is located just a few feet away. If you are lucky, both teams will be in action so you can go from one game to another quickly. Neighborhood 3 The Kendall Demonstration Elementary School, a day school serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students from birth through grade 8, is located right behind the right-center field fence of Hoy Field. The wonderful Union Market is located next to the university campus, although on the opposite end of Hoy Field. The market is worth a stop. The 1930s Union Terminal Market has been renovated into a gourmet food hall with numerous local vendors selling a variety of food products. My favorites of mine are Buffalo & Bergen, DC Empanadas, Peregrine Espresso, and TaKorean’s Korean Tacos. Besides Union Market, there is very little to do in the immediate neighborhood of Gallaudet University. Be careful driving around before or after the game as there are some dangerous neighborhoods in the area, although many are gentrifying quickly. Not too far away is a stellar cocktail bar, Smith Commons, located in the Atlas Arts District. The dizzying array of complicated drinks will amaze you. And did I mention you are right in the middle of Washington, DC? The number of attractions, museums, restaurants, and other sights is astounding. Spend some time pre or post-game seeing the many things around this great city. Fans 2 Many of the school’s fans are deaf. But this does not mean that they are quiet. Fans of the university can be boisterous and are proud of their school just like at any other university. Other fans at Hoy Field tend to primarily be family or friends of the players. You may see an inconsistent level of fan interaction. The fans who do attend care about the game and are extremely knowledgeable. Access 3 For weekend games there should be plenty of parking near the Kendall Demonstration Elementary School. Weekday games will take a bit more planning as you will have to find spaces that are open to visitors. The closest Metro station is the NoMa-Gallaudet U New York Ave Station. A few years ago I would not have recommended walking the short distance between the station and campus, but the safety of the area has improved dramatically. One should still use a good amount of caution and use common sense. The biggest problem with using the Metro is the system itself. The Metro is frustratingly overpriced compared to systems in other cities. But it does get you to nearly all parts of the city, except for Georgetown. Just be careful on weekends when trains run less often or are in the single-track mode, as you may encounter some extended wait times. The system is having maintenance, mechanical, and money issues so expect delays and other issues at all times. It is unfortunate, but way too true. Return on Investment 4 The price, free, is certainly reasonable. And you will probably not have to pay for parking. So, the value is certainly good. The Division III level of baseball is not especially high but the school’s conference has a nice variety of opponents. Extras 3 The grounds of the university are on the National Register of Historic Places. Take some time to check out the university facilities. Parts of the campus are also on the District of Columbia Inventory of Historic Sites and Historic American Buildings Survey. The Kendall Demonstration Elementary School has a very interesting statue located in front of its main building. Since it is next to the campus, one should check in and look at this large piece of art. The baseball and softball fields also share space with the school’s football and track stadium. The field is very nice and often hosts local recreating soccer games. Final Thoughts Hoy Field is a pretty simple baseball stadium. But the low cost of attendance means that this baseball stadium is a good value for the fan.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Captains Park 1 University Place Newport News, VA 23606 Christopher Newport Captains website Captains Park website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 1,000 Enjoying the Game at Captains Park Christopher Newport University is a public liberal arts university located in Newport News, VA on the banks of the James River, and has an enrollment of just under 5,000. CNU baseball competes in the Division III Capital Athletic Conference. Captains Park opened in 2004 and offers baseball fans free admission and all chair-back seating. Food & Beverage 2 There is one small concession at Captains Park, and it is located on the third base side of the press box facility. Unfortunately, there is not much selection. Bottled water and Pepsi products are available for $2.50. The only food to choose from is bagged chips, peanuts, and candy which range in price from $2-$3. Only cash is accepted at the concession stand. While there is little food selection at Captains Park, fans are allowed to bring in their food and drinks. Atmosphere 3 Captains Park is an impressive ballpark and a more than adequate facility for a Division 3 program. As one enters Captains Park, from either the right or the left field corner, one might think they are entering a mini Davenport Field. Fans can enter Captains Park from either side on a concrete sidewalk above a grassy berm than runs above the dugouts and along each baseline. There are three seating sections behind home plate: a section of chair back seats directly behind home plate and a section of bench back seats on either side. Each section is ten rows high. The sidewalk concourse runs above the seating area. There is a brick façade that serves as the backstop behind home plate. The dimensions of Captains Park are 335 feet to right and left field and 400 feet to straightaway center. The outfield wall features banners with postseason tournament trips and retired jersey numbers. There is a standard scoreboard in right field that features ball, strikes, outs, and the line score. Music is played between innings but it is not excessive. Even though there are three seating options (chair-back seats, bench-back seats, and the grassy berms), fans can sit anywhere they choose as there are no tickets and no admission is charged. This is nice as it enables fans to move around and watch the game from different parts of the park. Neighborhood 4 Captains Park is located on the campus of Christopher Newport University, among several other sports athletic facilities including the softball field and football stadium. Since it is located on campus, there are few places to eat within the immediate area. However, the campus is only located three miles from the popular Oyster Point section of Newport News, which features several restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops. Restaurants include PF Changs, Mellow Mushroom, and other similar chain and local restaurants. The Marriott at City Center in Oyster Point would be an excellent choice if staying overnight. An excellent attraction if visiting Captains Park is the Mariners Museum and Park located right next to the Christopher Newport Campus. The USS Monitor, a Civil war ironclad, is on display at the Mariners Museum. The Ferguson Center for the Arts is located on Christopher Newport’s campus and is a premiere venue for musical, ballet, and theatrical productions. Fans 3 The majority of fans at a Christopher Newport baseball game are players’ families and students. However, nearly all of the fans are decked out in CNU gear and are very much into the game. Captains Park does not have lights; therefore, all games are played during the day. This undoubtedly hurts attendance, especially games during the week. For a weekday game, one might expect a couple of hundred fans in attendance, but for weekend games 500-600, fans are the norm. Access 4 If you are attending a game at Captains Park for the first time, finding the ballpark will be difficult. However, if you follow the signs for TowneBank Stadium (the school’s football stadium), you will find yourself across the street from Captains Park. There are two parking lots next to Captains Park, but those lots require a university parking pass and are therefore unavailable on weekdays. However, free parking is available in a grass field next to the softball field right across the street from Captains Park. Since there is no cost to attend a game at Captains Park, tickets are not required. One can enter the ballpark from sidewalks in either the right or left field corners near the outfield wall. Movement around the ballpark is a breeze via the sidewalks that run around the top of the seating areas. Restrooms are located in the back of the press box facility. The sidewalks that run around the park make the entire ballpark very handicap accessible. Return on Investment 5 Free tickets, free parking, and a free game program make Captains Park an excellent choice to see quality Division 3 college baseball. Extras 2 Many fans bring their dogs to Captains Park, and the large grass berms down both baselines allow plenty of room for fans with dogs to roam around. Captains Park has been the home of the Virginia High School Coaches Association All-Star game for several years. Final Thoughts Captains park is a nice ballpark, especially for the level of baseball played by Christopher Newport University. It is worth a visit if in the area.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Fairfax Field W High Street Shepherdstown, WV 25443 Shephard Rams website Fairfax Field website Opened: 1920 Capacity: 500 Rams Baseball in Shepherdstown Shepherd University competes at the Division II level of the NCAA and is located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, in the Eastern Panhandle of the Eastern Panhandle of the state. (This is not a typo. Look at a map.) Fairfax Field is located on the Shepherd campus and was built in the early 1920s to house the school’s football team. However, it was a wholly inadequate facility, and in 1959, the team moved to the newly built Ram Stadium. Fairfax Field was then converted to a baseball field, which It remains to this day. One can still imagine the football field that was once here by noting the unusually deep center field fence. Food & Beverage 2 Limited concessions are served out of a truck behind the first base bleachers. Options include hamburgers (cheese optional), hot dogs, candy, chips, soda, and water. Although the options are limited, the prices are quite reasonable. Atmosphere 3 Fairfax Field is a small stadium, but that just makes it all the more intimate. There are three sections of seats here. The one immediately behind home plate consists of chair backs, while the other two sections are metal bleachers. Some of the chair backs have the names of donors on them, and they are typically allowed to sit there if they come, but other than that, it’s general admission. Note that the chair backs will be in the shade for most of the game, while the bleachers will be in the sun. Which one is preferable depends on the weather. On a brisk day early in the season, fans may want to forgo the chair backs and sit in the sun. As the season goes on into May and the temperature heats up, that shade will seem a lot nicer. The team plays music in between batters and in between innings, but other than that, there isn’t much going on here other than the game itself. It is a baseball purist’s dream, but fans expecting all the bells and whistles they’d get at a professional park will be deeply disappointed. Neighborhood 2 Shepherdstown is a friendly town but is not a particularly large one. There are a few restaurants and such in the immediate vicinity, but ultimately this is a sleepy small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains with not much to do. That being said, there is a lot of natural beauty in the area. Despite the popular John Denver song, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah River are mainly associated with Virginia, not West Virginia, but Jefferson County, where Shepherdstown is located, is the one place in the state you can actually experience them. Civil War buffs can also take a short drive across the Potomac River to visit the historic battlefield at Antietam, Maryland. Fans 4 Although Fairfax Field is a small facility, fans do a good job filling it up. The ones who attend are knowledgeable and passionate, cheering on the Rams loudly through nine innings. They are not afraid to get on the umpires’ case if they feel they made a poor call. Some students show up as well, but do not show the passion you’d expect from students at a bigger school. Additionally, if the game runs long, many of them will leave early to go to other evening activities. Access 3 Shepherdstown can be tough to access and will require at least some travel on local roads. State Route 9 and U.S. Route 340 can get you close, but then you will have to do some driving on back roads to get to campus. Once you’re on campus, there is a small lot right next to the stadium, but that fills up quickly. There are several lots located a short walk away in between the stadium and the Butcher Athletic Center, where the basketball team plays. Note that if you are heading to a weekday game, there will be additional restrictions in effect and you must follow all posted signs. On weekends, parking on campus is unrestricted and permitted in any marked space. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free, parking is free, and concessions are very affordable as well. Although you may have to spend a bit on gas to get here, a trip to a Shepherd baseball game is quite a bargain. Extras 2 There is a banner down the right field line listing Shepherd’s baseball accomplishments on a conference and NCAA level. Free programs are available in a converted mailbox by the bleachers. Although they are very basic, you can’t argue with the price. Final Thoughts Even Division I college baseball isn’t all that popular in this part of the country, and Division II baseball even less so. However, the Shepherd Rams have a small core of fans who are extremely passionate about their team and make the trek to Shepherdstown worthwhile for baseball fans in the area.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Harold K. Brandt Baseball Field 1241 9th St Las Vegas, NM 87701 NMHU Cowboys website Brandt Field website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 500 NMHU Cowboys Baseball The New Mexico Highlands University Cowboys are a part of the Div II RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference). Nestled in the small town of Las Vegas, NM, the baseball team calls Harold K. Brandt Baseball Field their home. Brandt Field, as it is locally known, received renovations in the late 2000’s with a new clubhouse and dugouts, and a pleasing new stone backstop. Although not overly successful this season (2017), the Cowboys are the 2000, 2005, and 2010 RMAC Tournament Champions, and received a bid to the NCAA Division II Regional Tournament in 2005. Baseball purists will enjoy watching a game here as it the simple things like the game and cheering on the boys on the field. No bells, no whistles; just the joy of the game. Food & Beverage 3 Basic food and beverages are available for a Cowboys baseball game. One concession building located behind the third base dugout is open and is shared with the softball and football fields. It opens closer to the start of game time; it is not open 30 minutes prior to the first pitch. It offers basic fare such as burgers/cheeseburgers, nachos, and jumbo hot dogs. Combos include a medium drink and chips and run $5 – $5.50. For something to snack on chips, popcorn, candy, and pickles are available for $1. The burgers and dogs are freshly grilled. Inviting, mouthwatering smells permeate the stands as the burgers are being prepared. A fan may have to come back 10 -15 min after ordering their burger waiting for it to be cooked. Soda, water, hot coffee and hot chocolate (sometimes desired on cool spring days), and Gatorade run $1 – $2. To get a special deal on soda, purchase an HU souvenir cup for $5 and get $1 refills the entire season. Smart Cowboy fans bring food and drinks from home (more often than not it is drinks for their son on the team). NMHU merchandise is not available for sale during a baseball game at Brandt Field. Atmosphere 3 Brandt Field is a basic baseball diamond with watching the game and rooting on the players, the teams, and good plays the purpose for visiting. Four sets of metal bleachers, 10 rows each with handrails, are located behind home plate. No cover is over the seating area so be prepared for any expected weather elements. A net surrounds the infield in front of the entire seating area, so there’s no place for fans to watch the game net free. The scoreboard is located beyond the right field wall and provides the basic line score: batter number, ball, strike, hit / error, and runs per inning. It can be a little difficult to read during early afternoon games as the sun shines on it. The music pregame is painfully loud. I’m guessing this is more for the players as they take batting practice and warm up. The volume is lowered when played between innings. Thankfully, no walk up songs are played as it just wouldn’t fit in this environment. The announcer has a fabulous, nice, clear voice; he calls the starting line up a little too fast to capture on a scorecard but always repeats the name when the player comes to bat. Roster sheets are not provided. The playing surface consists of real grass in the outfield and real dirt on the warning track but artificial turf on the infield. Trees grace the outfield view with leaves just beginning to bud during the early spring to mid-season games. There is a walking trail and creek behind the outfield. Third base is the Cowboys home side. Brandt Field does not have stadium lights so all games are played during the day. Several doubleheaders with 12pm/2pm start times are played throughout the season. Neighborhood 3 Las Vegas, NM sits in the northern part of the state, about an hour’s drive east of Santa Fe, and 125 miles northeast of Albuquerque. The New Mexico Highland University’s Brandt Field is located next to the John A Wilson Athletic Complex, the softball field, and the football field at the intersection of 9th Street and Raynolds Ave. It sits in a residential neighborhood and is a mile or less to restaurants and hotels. The closest restaurant is El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant just two blocks away. Another great restaurant in town is El Fidel Restaurant who claim they have the largest craft beer selection in Las Vegas. The Historic Plaza Square Park is about a mile away and has several restaurants in the area: Landmark Grill (located in the haunted Plaza Hotel; this also has a bar with several NM craft beers on tap), El Rialto Restaurant and Lounge (good for New Mexican food and their green chile), and JC’s New York Pizza Department (bowling lanes and pool tables are upstairs). Visit the City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection to learn about the history of the city and the 1st US Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. Three national parks are in the vicinity of Las Vegas: Pecos National Historical Park, Fort Union National Monument, and the Sante Fe National Historic Trail which passes through the old town of the city. Most of the hotels sit along Grand Ave and are about a mile from the ball field and price from $50 – $90 a night. I stayed at the Knights Inn and it is clean, comfortable, and safe. For a unique experience stay at the Historic Plaza Hotel built in 1882. It is gracefully restored and includes modern day comforts without tarnishing the history. Fans 3 Fans turn out in limited numbers for Cowboys baseball. Most appear to be family and friends with a spattering of students and locals. Dogs are allowed. A good contingent of the visiting team fans (parents) can often be found. Some of the biggest fans are the players in the dugouts. Access 3 Getting to Brandt Field is best by automobile. I did not notice any public transportation. The ball field sits on the corner of 9th St and Raynolds Ave. There’s no signage to ballpark – look for the John A Wilson Athletic Complex or the football stadium. The parking lot is next to the Wilson Complex. Entry to the field is from the parking lot beyond the first baseline. I don’t really see how anyone in a wheelchair would be able to watch the game as the stone brick backstop looks like it is too high and would prevent someone sitting in a wheelchair to see over it. Bathrooms are shared with the other sports facilities and located in the same building as the concessions. The ladies room is cement and has three stalls, enough for fans at the ballgame. Return on Investment 4 The expenditure is quite worth the value (especially for those who go for the game). Tickets run $6 for adults / $4 for 55+ and youth 13 – 18. Kids and students get in at no cost. Concession prices are quite reasonable (or bring your own) and parking is free. Go on a doubleheader day and get to see two games. Extras 1 Sometimes a softball game is played at around the same time as the baseball game and a fan can easily stroll over to see the softball game. Final Thoughts Las Vegas, NM is definitely not a vacation destination like its namesake in Nevada. However, if a resident of northern New Mexico or if passing through from Albuquerque to Denver one spring weekend, think about stopping in and catching a Cowboys baseball game at New Mexico Highlands University’s Brandt Field. It’s always a treat to watch a ball game for the game and Brandt Field fits that desire.

Photo Courtesy of SSU Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Tiger Baseball Field 3219 College St Savannah, GA 31404 Savannah State Tigers website Tiger Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 800 Savannah State’s Simple Stadium Unless you live in or around Savannah, Georgia, you probably know very little about Savannah State University. The school is an HBCU located on the outskirts of Savannah. SSU’s Tigers compete in the MEAC, a Division I conference composed entirely of HBCUs. Prior to joining the MEAC, the athletic program enjoyed success at both the D2 and D3 levels. Of course, moving up to D1 meant less success (at least initially), but the Tigers managed to win three conference titles in just their first four years in the MEAC. One of those conference championships came in 2013, and it belonged to the baseball team. The Tigers baseball team won their division and the MEAC tournament on their way to their first NCAA regional appearance. The baseball program is certainly on the rise, but it’s important to remember where they came from, especially when talking about their stadium. Since the team so recently joined Division I, Tiger Baseball Field is still a low-budget facility. As the team continues its rise, I would expect the facility to improve with it. For now, the small and simple facility provides an easy way for fans to watch the team. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions are located behind the third base dugout in a small brick building. Here you’ll find the basic stadium fare with good pricing. Hot dogs are only $2, as are Coke products and water. The most expensive item on the menu is a basket of five wings for $4. Honestly, there’s nothing wrong with this concession stand. There are no local specialty or luxury items, but you won’t overpay for your food here. Atmosphere 2 Again, I have a hard time knocking this facility. The school recently moved up from Division II and made the necessary improvements to field a competitive team. There just isn’t much to this stadium. The seating area is made entirely of metal bleachers and comes complete with a tiny box in the middle used for announcing and keeping score. Fans can also sit around the stadium in the lawn areas. The sound system is…well, kind of distracting. There is a single speaker mounted on the aforementioned brick building. Since it’s so far away from the seating area, the speaker needs to be quite loud. For those seated the appropriate distance from the speaker, this works well. On the other hand, if you sit on the third base side of the bleachers, you won’t be able to hear much during announcements and music. The scoreboard sits behind the right field fence. It’s a simple nine-inning scoreboard that covers all the necessities. Stadium lights are one of the few luxuries of this field. Not all D1 baseball fields boast stadium lighting, so I suppose that makes this facility a bit nicer. Neighborhood 3 Let me start this section off by saying that at Stadium Journey, we rate a neighborhood first and foremost by what is in the immediate area. I say this because if Tiger Baseball Field were anywhere near downtown Savannah, this would easily be a 5. The fact is, downtown Savannah is a 15 to 20 minute drive from the SSU campus. Within the immediate area, you’ll see a dollar store, a seafood market, and a sports bar. With the sports bar being a possible exception, these aren’t exactly the places you want to see after the game. Now let’s talk about downtown Savannah. If you’ve never been, surely you’ve heard from people how great it is. Everyone has their favorites in Savannah, and you should absolutely look around the area. There’s no shame in acting like a tourist in a city like this. Fans 1 Every fan here is a friend or family member of a player which isn’t always a bad thing. At this field though, there just aren’t enough fans to speak of. I don’t expect parents to be getting up out of their seats and yelling, but most are content in their own conversations. I hope that if the team becomes more relevant, some students might come out to the games. For now, though, there just isn’t much of a fan base here. Access 4 I-95 runs about 20 minutes away from the city, making it easy access from anywhere on the east coast. You’ll take I-16 to I-516, which will lead you right to the campus. Once you get to SSU, you must talk to a guard who shows you where to park. Parking is free and is just across the street from the game. Return on Investment 4 There is no cost to attend a Savannah State baseball game, and with concessions being so cheap, you probably won’t spend more than $10 to eat and see a game. Do you get a good return on your investment? I suppose since you’re investing very little, the answer is yes. Extras 1 The only thing of interest around the stadium is the Blue Angel replica plane displayed near the complex. It was donated by the Naval Air Force Museum to SSU’s Navy ROTC program. Final Thoughts There just isn’t much to this stadium. It’s not anyone’s fault, per se. This is just a small school that is relatively new to D1 athletics. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad stadium or not worth the experience. If you live near Savannah and enjoy baseball, you should absolutely come to a free game at SSU.

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Sapporo Dome Hitsujigaoka 1, Toyohira-ku Sapporo, Hokkaido 062-0045 Japan Nippon Ham Fighters website Sapporo Dome website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 40,476 Fighting for Respect The Nippon Ham Fighters were formed in 1948 and spent 55 years in Tokyo, where they were always a distant second in popularity to the Yomiuri Giants. Fighters games often saw the Tokyo Dome nearly empty and the team could never win anything, save a Nippon Series in 1962. The club was widely ridiculed and the corporate owners realized that their brand might be suffering as a result. Fortunately, there was a savior. In 2001, the Sapporo Dome was built as one of the many stadiums that would be used in the 2002 World Cup. Based in the biggest city on the northern island of Hokkaido, it wanted a pro baseball team for the 2003 season, when it needed to fill up all those summer nights. Having had enough of being second fiddle in the capital, Nippon Ham were more than receptive to the proposal and decided to move the Fighters up north, re-branding the club in the process. The Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters were born to overjoyed northerners who could finally call a ball team as their own. The players responded in turn, winning the Nippon Series in 2006 and making it back again as Pacific League champions in 2007 and 2009. The move to Hokkaido was unquestionably the best thing to happen to this club; the question now is how does the Sapporo Dome measure up against the Fighters’ former digs in Tokyo? Food & Beverage 5 Once you enter through your assigned gate, you will find yourself on the main concourse (1F), which is spacious and very clean. Most of the concessions are located here, although there are a few on the second floor as well. My recommendation is the Prince Hotel stand which had a good variety of smaller snacks that looked better than the KFC or Subway next to it. The fried chicken with black vinegar sauce was very nice, although it won’t come close to filling you up. As usual in Japan, it pays to walk around and check all the different options as there are about 20 different vendors each with multiple locations and each offering something unique. For example, one had a cucumber on a stick for those trying to stay healthy, while another boasted a very appetizing Hokkaido Steak Donburi. The Luna Creperie on the second floor seemed like a popular choice if you had a sweet tooth. There is a hot dog stand on the third floor behind center field but I had a look and the product was not tempting in the least. Stay on the first floor and you will be fine. One difference here is that you are not allowed to bring outside food in, so there are no vendors along the streets as you see in most other stadiums in Japan. I initially thought this to be a bad choice, but after sampling the reasonably priced fare inside, I can say it won’t make a difference. Beer is served continuously by vendors running up and down the aisles, and at 600 yen is somewhat cheaper here than elsewhere. If you want to sit down at a restaurant, Sports Stadium Sapporo is a full-service restaurant offering passable Hokkaido fare at reasonable prices. It also has a lot of memorabilia from international players that have visited and dozens of TV screens. Atmosphere 2 This is a cavernous place, the second largest dome in the country (behind only the Fukuoka Dome) and it was perhaps 35% filled at the most recent game I attended. As such, the atmosphere really suffered, there were your usual cheering sections, but they struggled to make much of a difference. There is a dance squad that performed a couple of times, including the Fighters’ traditional YMCA dance during the 5th inning break, but they couldn’t really get things going. The Fighters have an interesting balloon operation running here. Fans are given both blue and gold balloons. The blue ones are released in the 7th inning as is tradition, while the gold ones are saved for when the team wins. With a 3-1 lead, I saw many fans inflating their balloons, which I thought was a bit of a jinx move, but the Fighters prevailed. After the win there were a few fireworks as well, which sent fans home with some semblance of having had fun, but overall this place needs to be full to be exciting. Neighborhood 2 The dome is located about 10 minutes on foot south of Fukuzumi Station on the Toho subway line, which is itself about 15 minutes from downtown Sapporo. There are a couple of izakayas and a family restaurant on the way, but in reality this is one area you will be leaving immediately after the game. You’ll likely head to Susukino, Sapporo’s nightlife district with plenty of bars and clubs here to keep you busy. Hosui-Susukino is the nearest station and it is only five stops away from Fukuzumi. There is a small cafe near here called Hippies that offers a “dinch” menu after 5 pm. It is a quiet place that might make a good place to start before heading out on the town. Two bars of note are Rad Brothers, which caters to the foreign crowd although its reputation is that a spot for said crowd to meet the locals; and Locotonte, which has an all-you-can-drink night on Friday for just 2,000 yen. Fans 2 I expected more than just 15,000 to make it out to an early-season game, particularly with the lower priced tickets for this one, but looking at past seasons, it seems like the visiting Buffaloes are not a big draw, particular on a cold weekday evening. Still, those that did make it were particularly annoying, at least in my immediate vicinity. There were three women sitting two rows in front who kept chatting and moving around, blocking my view, the parents with their terribly agitated child who couldn’t sit still and kept kicking me, the dork with the tripod at the end of the row who forced people to climb over seats, and the old guy who came in the 5th inning and sat next to me before proceeding to suck on a toothpick for the rest of the evening. Finally, there was the know-it-all a few rows back whose taunts to the home players got increasingly loud and obnoxious as the game and his beer consumption went on. It’s unfair to punish the entirety of Fighters’ fandom (of which I am one from their days in Tokyo) due to a few bad apples, but I’m doing it anyway. They need more fans to go and actually watch the game! Access 4 Walking from the station is easy enough; you have to go over a bridge to cross the final street at which point you walk up some stairs and find yourself at the entrance to the North Gate. There are three gates in total, with the West and South Gates also open. Ticket windows, the fan club area, and the aforementioned Sports Stadium Sapporo restaurant are all inside the North Gate, which is open to the elements when you are waiting in line. The South Gate is also outdoors, but has nothing else of note. On the other hand, the West Gate is completely covered, so it makes sense to wait here if the doors to the stadium have yet to open, which they do 90 minutes before game time. Given that Sapporo can still be cold in April, they should really open gates 2 hours prior. This stadium is rare in Japan in that you can walk the entire way around without losing view of the field, but still you need to show your ticket before entering your particular aisle. Rows are numbered from field level to the top, with 76 being the highest. It is a long hike to the top so you better be in reasonable shape if that’s where you like to sit. The second floor (2F) is where you enter the seating area, which is marked by 118 aisles starting from center field and going clockwise. Some of these aisles are only accessible by bridges which provide a view of the main concourse below. After the game, there is a rush back to the subway station, but I found that it moved well and the train wasn’t that crowded. There are also shuttle buses to various other locations in the area, so if you are not staying downtown, you might want to check these out. Return on Investment 4 When you first lay eyes on the Sapporo Dome, you are likely to think that the city has been invaded by aliens. It is a large, silver, beetle-shaped structure with what appears to be a protruding nose (that’s the observation deck, which is not open during the game). Based atop a small hill, it is quite the arresting sight. After entering, I was heartened to see that there was no protective netting running down the lines. I hate obstructed views at sporting events and every other ballpark I’ve been to in Japan has some sort of screen that usually extends past the bases. I was sitting midway between home and first just three rows from the field and had an unobstructed view of the game. The only problem here is that this section is very moderately sloped, so my view was often blocked. The rest of the seating is very steep and you don’t have to worry about that sort of thing. The Fighters have three game categories and I was fortunate to see a Value Game with my SS seat only costing 3,500 yen. The same seat would have been 5,000 yen for a Regular game and 6,500 for Platinum, which is a bit much in my mind. My recommendation would be to stick with the SS category for the cheapest games, but try the A seats (or even C) for the other types. I never saw anyone checking tickets once you were inside the seating area, so it is possible you can sit where you want once the game has started, at least when it is so empty. The field seats are the most expensive but well down the line and protected by a screen and therefore should be avoided. Another seating area that is not for most is the “Cinderella seats,” which are the small pink section in some of the photos in the gallery. These are for women only, the catch being that they buy two seats for just slightly more than the price of one, the second seat to be used for their oversized bag. The scoreboard is average at best, and doesn’t have the typical layout that you see at other parks. It’s all electronic and rather cramped. With food and drink being reasonably priced and the Fighters being a competitive and likable team, as well as the great access here, the ROI gets 4 points. Extras 4 The West Gate has a number of interesting displays on the history of the Dome, including memorabilia from the 2002 World Cup, the Fighters and Consadole teams over the years, other sporting events that have been held there and even concert performers. Definitely stop by to take a look before you go in, because it is not accessible once you have entered the venue proper. If you bring gym clothes, you can work out at the Training Room, a full gym that costs only 500 yen per entry and is at one end of the West Gate. There is also a third floor above center field where the Kids Plaza is located. Anyone can walk up and take a look out, it is an impressive venue from this angle. The observatory is 53 meters above field level and is mildly interesting, but it is not open during the game. You can visit it during off-days or before noon if there is a night game, but at 500 yen, it is a bit much, especially as it costs about 500 yen in train fare to get there and back. If you are a stadium collector though, I recommend that you take the combination tour/observatory package for 1,200 yen (the tour alone is 1,000 yen), at least if you can understand Japanese. You get taken around the venue and can see the locker rooms and bullpen which is not visible from the seating area. Final Thoughts The Sapporo Dome is a unique venue in Japan as it can host both baseball and soccer on two different surfaces. Baseball games are played on artificial turf, while soccer uses a grass pitch that slides into and out of the stadium. This in itself is not unknown elsewhere; the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale also features a sliding surface. The conversion process takes about 8 hours from baseball to soccer and 13 hours in reverse, when the entire baseball turn must be re-laid. It is a technological marvel to watch this process in fast forward. After the baseball field is removed piece-by-piece and stored, the seats at one end fold into themselves as part of a moving wall. This wall is eventually opened and the soccer stage, which is the pitch resting on air, is slowly moved inside. Then the entire lower bowl is rotated 90 degrees to complete the switch. Due to the elimination of field level seats, the dome has a capacity of only 40,476 for baseball games compared to 41,484 for soccer. Unfortunately, it is unlikely you will see this process live, but the tour shows the 8-hour process in a 3- minute video. There are so many good things about the Sapporo Dome that I’d have to say it is the best domed stadium I have seen. That’s not damning with faint praise as you might think, this place really should be visited by any fan. The lack of fans and my poor luck in choosing a seating section will hurt the score here, but this place is really brilliantly designed and makes Sapporo a great sports destination. **Follow all of Sean MacDonald’s journeys at Sports Road Trips.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Surprise Stadium 15930 N. Bullard Ave Surprise, AZ 85374 Texas Rangers Spring Training website Surprise Stadium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 10,714 Surprise Rangers The MLB Texas Rangers are celebrating their 20th spring ball season at the gorgeous Surprise Stadium in Arizona this 2023 season. The Rangers share the stadium with the Kansas City Royals. The Surprise Saguaros of the Arizona Fall League play their home games at the venue. Owned and managed by the city of Surprise Sports & Tourism Department, the stadium boasts wide open concourses and plaza areas and is shared equally between the two teams. A well-known architect, Populous, designed the stadium with fan comfort in mind, with spacious concourse plaza areas, plenty of shade and sunshine (depending on your preference), lots of legroom, and an open wrap-around concourse. It’s a comfortable facility to catch a Rangers spring training game in February or March. Food & Beverage 4 Surprise Stadium provides a considerable number of refreshment choices for the baseball fan. Some offerings are in permanent stands, and others are in carts, trucks, and kiosks along the concourse and the plazas. Food from the latter group always tastes better. That’s what we recommend checking out. I find the choices down the third base concourse preferable. Fans can purchase juicy Italian sausage, bratwurst, meat burgers, portobello burgers, chicken tenders, and hot dogs ($9.25 - $11). Top Taco on the third base side sells tacos trays at $15 - $16 (enough for two or more people) or a Desert Cactus margarita at $19. The Links Neighborhood Grill (a local restaurant) sells smoked chicken, Carolina pork, and rib meals for $14 - $17. Snacks, carnival-like lemonade, funnel cake/elephant ears, fries and curly fries, corn dogs, etc. run $9 - $10 at several kiosks. Best of all is a red Sweeties ice cream truck on the third base concourse plaza, a nice treat for those warm spring days and evenings in Surprise AZ. Most concession menus have a calorie count listed. The stadium serves Coca-Cola brands of soda ($5.50 - $10) or bottles ($6.15). A good variety of craft and domestic beer is on sale, including Boulevard Beer – a brewery based in Kansas City, and Huss Brewing – based in Phoenix. Be sure to check out the Huss Brewing Container Bar area on the first base plaza. Concession areas serve traditional domestic brands like Bud Light, Coors, Michelob Ultra, Hard Seltzer, and the like. A tent on the third base concourse sells beers on tap, including Four Peaks, Barrios, Boulevard, Huss, Samuel Adams, and even cider. Beer prices are around $13 or $14; wine and cocktails cost $9 - $17, depending on choice. Vendors do not roam the stands selling beverages. Surprise Stadium allows fans to bring in outside food if it is in a clear Ziploc bag. The stadium permits fans to bring in two sealed bottles of water as well as single-serving juice boxes, baby food, and formula. Atmosphere 4 The Rangers offer a fine afternoon or evening of spring ball. The Surprise Sundancers – a spring training volunteer services group – extend heartfelt warmth, greetings, and assistance to all visitors to Surprise Stadium. They run the 50/50 raffle each game and host a charity game each spring. All proceeds go to youth-related programs and scholarships. The Rangers side of the stadium is the first base side, with the team offices guarded by a white picket fence in the right field corner and Royals banners down the third base concourse. The sun sets behind the grandstand; infield seats get the shade. Seats down the baselines get the sun, so there’s enough variance to suit everyone’s preference. Berm seating is available in the outfield (but not directly in front of the batter’s eye). Populous added seats above the bullpens when designing the stadium, a delightful feature not often seen in spring ball venues. Fans can peer over the bullpens and watch pitchers warm up. Surprise Stadium Seats Above Bullpens, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Sprinkled throughout the seating area are specifically designed aisle seats with no armrests. These give big people a little more comfort when watching the game. Be sure to ask for one of these if desired. Protective netting extends to the end of the seating area, with only the last two sections on each baseline net-free (sections 121-124). Fans like to congregate here pregame in hopes of receiving an autograph or two. The scoreboard is in left field and has two unique features: one, an analog clock is at the top (nice touch!), and two, colored circles indicate the balls, strikes, and outs, with green for balls and red for strikes and outs. Sponsor advertisements decorate half of the scoreboard. Unfortunately, the music volume and frequency are more frequent and louder than in some other spring training facilities in Arizona. Neighborhood 3 Surprise AZ is known for having many active adult communities and residences. Many northerners migrate south for the winter or relocate permanently to the area for its warm weather. Surprise does not have a ‘downtown’ area and is more piecemeal with communities and strip malls. Construction crews are building more and more structures as the city grows in popularity. Across the street from the stadium are the city-owned and operated tennis and racquet courts, the Surprise Community Park (walking trails, fishing pond, picnic area), an aquatic center, and the library. For places to stay near the ballpark, a Residence Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and a Hilton Garden Inn are about ½ mile from the stadium. Places to eat and drink before or after the game require a vehicle. Many chain and fast food places are along Bell Rd. For non-chain suggestions, try Bonfire Craft Kitchen and Tap House, Saigon Kitchen (Vietnamese), or Irish Wolfhound. State 48 Brewery has a brewpub a little over two miles from the stadium. Uptown Alley is a bowling alley, game room, lounge, bars, and full-service restaurant all in one, 3 ½ miles from the ballpark. If outdoor activities interest you, at least eight golf courses dot the Surprise landscape, or take a hike at the White Tank Mountain Regional Park (17 miles from the ballpark). Fans 3 A good mix of fans visit Surprise for a Rangers spring training game: the die-hard Rangers fans and those supporting the visiting team, retired folks enjoying the warmer southwest weather, families with kids, and friends and couples enjoying a few hours out. It’s a laid-back crowd, as most spring games are, as fans are there to talk baseball and check out up-and-coming Rangers players, as well as an inning or two of watching one of their favorite MLB Rangers. Access 3 Surprise Stadium is the farthest spring training facility in the Cactus League from downtown Phoenix, about a 45+ min drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. If coming from the south and west, we highly recommend taking the 303 Loop even though it’s longer in mileage. That route has far fewer traffic lights and congestion than other choices. Public transportation is not available to Surprise Stadium. Gates open 1 ½ hours before the first pitch. Parking is free, always a welcome feature. Police officers do a good job of directing traffic before and after the game. Three gates are open, all in the outfield. The ticket booth is outside center field behind the batter’s eye, a rare characteristic in Cactus League spring training venues. Expect a lot of walking from the parking areas and then again, after entering the stadium. After getting through security, fans walk down and around the wide-open plazas and concourse to get to the seating area. Sundancers are readily available with wheelchairs to assist anyone who might have difficulty with the walk to their seats. Clear stadium bags (12” x 6” x 12”) are allowed, though the signs explaining this are not easy to read and do not make fans feel welcome. Clean restrooms are available behind the batter’s eye and along the inner concourse. Baby changing tables are available in all restrooms. Return on Investment 4 As with all Cactus League stadiums, spring training tickets have increased. That said, a Texas Rangers game is way more affordable than most other Cactus League ballparks. Based on the game and opponent, the team offers three pricing structures: classic, standard, and premium. In 2023, for outer baseline seats (in the sun), a classic game ticket price is $16, standard is $20, and premium is $25. Lawn seats run $8 - $12. Tickets may be available on third party sites. Check those first before purchasing from the team site. Free parking and being allowed to bring in food and bottles of water help reduce some of the costs. Extras 4 A few things are worth mentioning or mentioning again. The specifically designed aisle seats with no armrest for big people. The seats above the bullpens. A Hall of Fame highlighting plaques honoring both Royals and Rangers players and managers, as well as local community role models. The Sundancers’ friendliness and eagerness to assist and strike up a conversation are worth another mention. Final Thoughts Although more distant than other spring training venues, Surprise Stadium is a pleasant venue for faithful Rangers fans, residents of the West Valley, and all baseball fans to enjoy a few hours of spring ball. The design is striking, the seats comfortable, and the concourses wide open.

It's time for another beer and another chat with Dave and Paul. Mario Lemieux saved the Pittsburgh Penguins multiple times and got them the new arena they needed. Does it stack up with the rest of the Pittsburgh venues? The latest episode of Obstructed Views will examine PPG Paints Arena and its place in the NHL and Pittsburgh. You can find Stadium Journey's review of PPG Paints Arena here.

After a bit of a hiatus, Paul and Dave are BACK to take a look at some college football. The New England Patriots once thought Hartford would be home, but the backup plan was a new stadium for UConn Huskies football. Grab a beer and tune in for all the details! You can find Stadium Journey's review of Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field here

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

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Cleveland S. Harley Baseball Park 305 N Campus Blvd Spartanburg, SC 29303 USC Upstate Spartans website Cleveland S. Harley Baseball Park website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 500 Cleveland S. Harley Baseball Park There is something that can be said about the simpleness of the game of baseball. As teams at so many levels look to grab fans attention through on field contests, giveaways, and fan-scoreboard interactions, at times the simpleness of the game is the most beautiful part of it. In larger college stadiums, the uniqueness of the dugout chatter can easily be lost. It is at smaller stadiums like Harley Park where the appreciation of the one-of-a-kind college bat ‘ting’ is amplified, and the emphasis of every strike call can be felt. At the University of South Carolina-Upstate, the game is presented in its simplest form, where the beauty of college baseball is highlighted. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand at Harley Park is built into the third base side of the press box. Prices are kept wonderfully low, but there is not a lot in the way of substantial options outside of hot dogs, nachos, or soft pretzels. One uniquely southern treat is boiled peanuts, though, which have a definite acquired appreciation. Atmosphere 3 Harley Park is among the other sports venues in the Louis P. Howell Athletics Complex, on the USC-Upstate campus. The baseball and softball fields are in the same area of the complex. Approaching the park, fans are greeted by a shrub-lined walkway that leads to the back of the press box. The press box has a distinct early-90s vibe with its glass and textured cinder block design. The grandstand is built into a large slope behind home plate, so fans enter from above field level. Spartans fans head left to the home side of the press box, with most visiting fans heading to the right of the seating bowl, or to the sloped berm behind the primary seating area. The wall down the right field line is also a popular vantage point for many. Restrooms are built into either side of the press box. Harley Park is a large, symmetrical field enclosed with a well battered, aluminum covered, chain link outfield fence. Each of the lines play 335’, with both power alleys going 383’ and dead center 402’. A basic scoreboard sits just over the left centerfield wall which provides fans with score by inning, ball-strike-out counts, and run-hit-error totals. Most of the time between innings is filled with music and ads from the public address announcer. There are no between inning promotions to speak of. Some might think this would make the game boring, but it is a bit of a nice break from constantly having your attention consumed. Neighborhood 3 USC-Upstate is located just on the outskirts of downtown Spartanburg, South Carolina. There is one small neighborhood near the USC-Upstate campus, but most of the area is populated by businesses and industrial companies. The area is a bit of a transitional part of Spartanburg as it moves from the highway to the downtown area of the city. Though not in the immediate vicinity, the BMW Zentrum Museum is in neighboring Greer, South Carolina, and provides an in-depth look at the history of the German automaker, and what goes into creating their vehicles. Harley Park is less than 5 miles from Wofford’s Russell C. King Field. Spartanburg is the smallest city in the country to be home to multiple NCAA D-I schools. Fans 2 Fan turnout for USC-Upstate games is rather modest. It is not uncommon for opposing fans to outnumber the Spartan fans. Attendances are reported in the range of 100 to 200 per game. The fans here are into the game, but just don’t have the numbers to provide much of a home field advantage. Access 4 The USC-Upstate campus is directly off the I-585 bypass that runs around Spartanburg. The campus is just 4 miles from the junction of Interstates I-85 and I-26, which run locally from Greenville, SC to Charlotte, NC (I-85) and Asheville, NC to Charleston, SC (I-26). There is a parking lot at the field that is shared with softball, which can fill up quickly, but is worth a shot to find parking close by. There is also an overflow lot directly behind the softball field if spots at the baseball stadium itself are full. Accessing the stadium itself is rather simple as there is no fencing or walls forcing fans to access only one entry point. For the most part, fans are contained either to the stands behind home plate, the grassy hill on the visiting side of the field, or along the wall down the right field line. The batting cages on the home side of the field do not lend themselves to watching the game from there. Return on Investment 5 If you like free things, you are in luck because just about everything at Harley Park is free! There is no charge for parking nor admission, and concession prices top out at just $3. It is hard to get prices any lower than they are here. Extras 3 A large water tower with “Upstate” and the Spartan logo painted on it sits in the distance, behind the third base side of the field. While not part of the stadium complex, it does give the area a bit of extra character. If looking to kill some time prior to a game or between the games of a double header, there is a disc golf course just outside the right field fence. A magazine box conveniently has copies of both teams' rosters available for fans to grab as they approach the seating area. Final Thoughts There is not a lot that stands out about Cleveland S. Harley Baseball Park, which in a way is what makes it special – it is a baseball park at its truest form. Despite the modest number of seats in the grandstand, a good number of fans bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to watch from the hillside, or lean over the side wall down the first baseline to get up close to the action. For a casual fan of baseball it might not be a destination to seek out, but given its overall affordability, baseball at USC-Upstate is a decent weekend afternoon activity to get outside for.

What is it REALLY like to catch a game in Newark? Although not The Big Apple, Newark has a bit of a jaded reputation, but is it warranted? Is it worth going to a New Jersey Devils game? Grab a good beer and join Dave and Paul as they delve into the details of the experience at The ROCK! 🏒🍻 You can find Stadium Journey's review of the Prudential Center and the New Jersey Devils game day experience here.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 George Mason Stadium 4400 University Drive Fairfax, VA 22030 George Mason Patriots website George Mason Stadium website Capacity: 5,000 Patriot Games The George Mason Patriots soccer and lacrosse teams plays their home games in the 5,000 seat George Mason Stadium. The venue is located in a complex which also includes the GMU Field House as well as Spuhler Field, home of the school’s baseball team. It has previously hosted some D.C. United matches in the U.S. Open Cup and other lesser tournaments, but the team now plays those at its new stadium, Audi Field. On the lacrosse side, it was formerly the home of the Washington Bayhawks of Major League Lacrosse, before they relocated to Annapolis, became the Chesapeake Bayhawks, and eventually folded. This review will focus on the experience at George Mason Stadium for a women's lacrosse game. Mason does not have a men's lacrosse team, so during the lacrosse season only the women call this place home. Food & Beverage 2 There is a cart parked on the track underneath the scoreboard at George Mason Stadium that serves a basic selection of food. Just about the only thing that can be a meal is a hot dog, while bottled soda and water and assorted snacks, cookies, chips and candy are also available. Prices are reasonable with nothing more than $5 but the selection is quite limited. Fans are also permitted to bring their own food and drink into the stadium with them if they so choose. . Atmosphere 2 George Mason Stadium has a large set of bleachers that can seat up to 5,000 fans, which is absolutely cavernous given they usually attract only a few hundred. All bleachers are standard benches without backs and are separated from the field by a track so they do not have the greatest view of the action. The bleachers' sheer size and distance from the field take away a lot from the atmosphere here. Bigger isn't always better and this stadium proves that. A small scoreboard is located behind the goal on the right as you are sitting in the bleachers and shows only the basic information. The team will occasionally do pregame or halftime activities to honor various groups and will play music during breaks in the action, but this is a pretty standard experience. Some of the best lacrosse fan experiences in the country are located in the Baltimore-Washington area, but unfortunately George Mason is not one of them. The atmosphere here is pretty basic and what you'd expect from most non-revenue sports. Neighborhood 3 Fairfax is a typical suburban area about 25 miles outside Washington, D.C. There is a shopping center across campus which includes several chain places and a movie theatre. If you’re willing to drive a few miles, the Glory Days Grill in the City of Fairfax is a local favorite, as is Capital Ale House. While Fairfax doesn’t have the same excitement you’d get in the District, it’s still a nice suburb with plenty to do and places to eat before or after the game. Fans 2 Mason will average several hundred fans a game, which is typical for women's college lacrosse. Most of them are friends and family of the players or have some other connection to the school. They can get passionate, but the fact that the stadium is much larger than it needs to be means the crowd noise and energy is a lot less than it otherwise would be. This is unfortunate and not really the fans' fault, but it does bring down the rating here. Access 4 George Mason’s campus is about six miles off the Capital Beltway (I-495) or three miles off I-66. Once you’re on campus, ample free parking is available in the lot stretching between the Field House and Spuhler Field (with the stadium in the middle), and more parking is available on the other side of the Field House. Typically parking will not be a hassle, even if there is a baseball game at Spuhler Field at the same time. However, the Field House does occasionally host outside events as well, and those can draw much larger crowds than the typical Mason game. When Stadium Journey visited for our review, there was a youth wrestling tournament going on in the Field House that drew participants and families from all across the region, and the parking lot was packed. However, we have parked in this lot several times before for other events at George Mason Stadium and Spuhler Field and have encountered no issues whatsoever. Check ahead of time to see what is happening, and leave yourself a lot of extra time to park if something major is going on in the Field House that day. Otherwise you should probably be fine. Unfortunately, Mason’s campus is not easily Metro-accessible as the closest stop is Vienna, five miles away. Despite having the school name in the station’s full name (Vienna/Fairfax-GMU), getting to the stadium from there is not very easy. There is a shuttle bus that is about a 15-minute ride to campus, but then you will have to walk another 15-20 minutes to get to the stadium. Under no circumstances should you use the Virginia Square-GMU station, as that serves Mason’s Arlington satellite campus, and is nowhere near the main campus in Fairfax. Although there are no restrooms in the stadium itself, there are some next door in the Field House which are available during games. Typically these are of a large enough size to accommodate the stadium crowds without issue, but as with parking, this can change if there is an outside event at the Field House that day. Return on Investment 3 Admission to Mason lacrosse games is free and concessions are affordable. Parking is usually free on weekends, but there is a cost on weekdays or if there is an event at the Field House so check the signs to be sure. If there is a charge, you will need to pay on your smartphone using the ParkMobile app. While a visit to a Mason game is affordable, there is not enough here to earn an above average score. Extras 1 There are free programs available by the entrance, but that is the only real extra here. Final Thoughts George Mason Stadium is a classic example of why bigger stadiums aren't always better stadiums. A 5,000 seat grandstand separated from the field by a track is far too large for the crowds Mason attracts, and it really puts a damper on the atmosphere. The stands feel cavernous and far removed from the action, and that turns what could otherwise be a great experience into a mediocre one at best. There are many college lacrosse teams to choose from in the Baltimore-Washington area, and while fans of George Mason may want to check out their lacrosse team, there are better places for neutrals to check out a game close by.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Adams State Baseball Field 600-698 Stadium Dr Alamosa, CO 81101 Adams State Grizzlies website Adams State Baseball Field website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 400 Between San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains Located in the southern part of the state, Alamosa, CO sits in the picturesque San Luis Valley between the dramatic San Juan Mountains to the west and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east. Adams State University makes its home in downtown Alamosa with beautiful buildings and tree lined walkways. After a thirty year hiatus, the Adams State Grizzlies baseball team began play in their newly constructed (2013) Adams State Baseball Field adjacent to the lacrosse/soccer and softball fields. The Grizzlies baseball team play in the RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference), a Div II NCAA member. The team made it to the RMAC tournament in 2015 but has not seen a whole lot of success in its short existence. If weather holds out and it’s a nice warm weekend afternoon, watching a Grizzlies baseball game is enjoyable. Not baseball related but if the Adams State University name sounds familiar… in recent news (April, 2017) Adams State signed the first female football player to a scholarship at the Div II level. Food & Beverage 2 Freshly grilled burgers ($2), hot dogs ($1) and hot links ($2) are the main choices for food at a Grizzlies game and they sure look delicious. Bundle one of those with chips and a drink (water/soda) for a total of $3 and an extremely affordable lunch can be had at the ballpark. Candy is available for a $1. Atmosphere 3 Adams State University Baseball Field is more or less a typical RMAC Div II ball field where the entertainment is the game. Seating consists of three rows of green fold-down stadium seats in front of the press box behind home plate, seven rows of elevated metal bleachers on the third base side and five rows of metal bleachers on the first base side. No handrails are available for the bleacher seating. Some fans bring lawn chairs and park themselves under the third base bleachers. A gorgeous view of snow capped Blanca Peak Mountain can be seen from the third base side. A net surrounds the entire infield area. The field consists of synthetic grass and dirt. The home side is third base while visitors are on the first base side. The bullpens are not on the field and are beyond the end of both baselines. Some fans back their pickup trucks up, fold down the tailgate and watch the game from beyond the left field wall. No lights are at the field, so only day games are played here. Several daytime doubleheaders occur throughout the season. The scoreboard resides in left field and has the basic line score: runs, hits, errors, balls, strikes, outs, and the player number at bat. Music is played during the call of the starting lineups and over other announcements made throughout the game (a pet peeve of mine); the Grizzlies have walk up songs which are not played too loud. Neighborhood 4 Downtown Alamosa and where the university resides is a small, walkable town with many things just a few miles distance. Be sure to stop by the Visitor’s Center located in the historic Alamosa Train Depot on State Ave and 6th St. They treat visitors remarkably well. One of the biggest draws to the area are the Great Sand Dunes located about 30 min from Alamosa. Another attraction is the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad excursion train but those don’t start until after the end of the college baseball season. The Rio Grande River runs just behind the outfield wall of the ball field and plenty of hiking and riding trails are available in the area. In town is the San Luis Valley Museum or see a show at the Creede Repertory Theatre or the Adams State University Xperimental Theatre. For places to eat, I’d recommend the San Luis Brewing Company, a brewpub with small batch brews and a full menu located right downtown. Several hotels are nearby including the Best Western Alamosa Inn, Grizzly Inn Motel, and the Valley Motel. Fans 3 Fans are mostly friends, family and alumni. More students showed at the game of this review than other RMAC baseball fields I’ve attended. The biggest and loudest fan base are the players themselves. Access 3 Alamosa is about almost a four hour drive southwest from Denver, CO and about a three and a half hour drive north of Albuquerque, NM. A small regional airport offers minimal flights to Denver or Albuquerque. I did not notice any public transportation in the city. Once getting to the ball field, parking is on the street in the neighborhood, though that area can be foul ball targets. A safer choice is to park at the domed high altitude indoor practice training center at the corner of Sunset Dr and Stadium Dr and walk a short block to the field. The entry area is a hard dirt surface which may cause fans in wheelchairs some extra work. Fans using wheelchairs or walkers should sit in front of the press box as that is paved and has space, though I did not notice any specific section for handicapped seating. Return on Investment 4 All seats are general admission (sit where you want) and there is no charge for attending a ball game at ASU Baseball Field. Concessions are extremely reasonable and there’s no fee for parking. The ball team has had its struggles this 2017 season but even so, if it’s a warmer weekend, taking in a game (or two) is a great way to pass an afternoon. Extras 1 A roster sheet is available which includes not only the players’ names but also an almost up-to-date stat sheet of the players from both teams. Final Thoughts Even if you don’t get to a baseball game, Alamosa and the San Luis Valley are tremendous places to visit, especially for outdoor activities. Getting to see a game is just an added bonus if a fan of baseball.