Photos by Aaron Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 William "Dick" Price Stadium 700 Park Ave Norfolk, VA 23504 Norfolk State Spartans website William "Dick" Price Stadium website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 30,000 HBCU Spartans The highlight of most HBCU football games is seeing the bands perform, and at William ‘Dick’ Price Stadium in Norfolk, VA this is no different. Home of the green-and-gold Norfolk State Spartans, Dick Price Stadium opened in 1997 and has a capacity of 30,000 (although at present seats in the east end zone are not sold, so the capacity is much lower). The stadium was named after former athletic director, football, and track coach Dick Price, and features a great PA announcer and a good selection of food and beverage options. Food & Beverage 3 At Dick Price Stadium you can find hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken wings, and hot wings, chicken tenders, fried fish pieces, and fried fish sandwiches, and even veggie wraps, as well as fries, pretzels, peanuts, packaged candy, and chips. Main dishes run from $4 to $7 with hamburgers being the cheapest and chicken wings/hot wings being the most expensive – the lack of hot dogs is surprising; you rarely see sports stadiums without those delicacies. In addition to the food selections noted above, you can find Gatorade, bottled water, bottled soda, coffee, and hot cocoa for $2 to $3. While the prices are very reasonable and the selection is great, the downside is that concessions lines at Dick Price Stadium are very long, since most of the concessions windows are not open (I assume due to the crowd size, or could be lack of staff). Atmosphere 5 The two best things about attending a game at Dick Price Stadium are the PA announcer and the band – the PA announcer is great; he really gets the crowd fired up by encouraging fans to do the wave (you don’t see the wave much anymore, at least in this writer’s experience) and encouraging them to stomp their feet on the bleachers – this is a tradition at Dick Price Stadium, and really creates a lot of crowd noise. But the best thing the announcer does is getting fans to clap for opposing players after they get up from an injury, or getting them to clap for the refs – the PA announcer asks fans to applaud, and when they aren’t loud enough or enthusiastic enough, he fusses at them to make them do it better; this is great fun to see and participate in. The second great thing about seeing a game at Dick Price Stadium is of course the Spartans marching band. The Norfolk State is pretty big, and these folks are continually moving; dancing and gyrating in the stands, waving their arms, and sashaying as they make their way down to the field for the halftime show – really a fun thing to witness. The halftime show is also pretty impressive, so make sure you stay in your seats for that. Neighborhood 3 Norfolk State’s campus is not in a great part of town – the area is a little industrial and even has a railroad track running right behind the stadium. The campus is a couple of miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Norfolk, where you can find some pretty snazzy restaurants and shopping. While closer to the stadium you will find mainly quick service stops like Church’s Chicken or Bay Seafood, if you head toward Norfolk proper you can find more upscale choices such as 4 5 6 Fish and Istanbul Gyro & Kebab. Most of the hotels are closer to downtown as well, but there is a Budget Lodge closer to campus. If you plan to be in town for the day or weekend, Nauticus is a maritime museum in Norfolk which is home to the Battleship Wisconsin – the ship served in WWII, the Korean War, and even during Desert Storm following a modernization effort, so that is a fun trip if you have the time. Another great option is the nearby Old Point Comfort Lighthouse, and there are also several historic homes in the area which you can visit. Fans 2 Not a whole lot of fans come to Dick Price Stadium for the average NSU Spartans game, so the stands will feel pretty empty, especially at times on the visitor’s side, and as I mentioned earlier seats in the east end zone are not sold, so that whole area is blocked off. The fans that are there really get into it, though, and are pretty loud (helped in part by the aforementioned PA announcer), but you definitely won’t see many sellouts. Access 3 Getting to Norfolk for any reason is a tricky proposition – there are lots of bridges and tunnels to get over the water from the rivers and the bay, and these tend to get backed up a lot so the traffic can be heavy. Be sure to pay close attention to your directions or GPS so you don’t miss your exit; if you do you may have to loop back around to get back over/under the water to your destination. Once you get to NSU, there is parking for $5 (at Shiloh Baptist church) right across the street from the campus’s main entrance on Park Avenue. However, that means a pretty long walk to the stadium across campus, so you are better off if you can find parking on the opposite end near the NSU Gate 8 entrance. The will-call booth (looks like a white trailer) is also on the Gate 8 side, so if you don’t have your tickets with you I would try to park on that end instead. Once you get into the stadium there are plenty of bathrooms and plenty of room to move around; the only drawback is the aforementioned lines at the concession stands. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to football games at Dick Price Stadium are $20 for general admission, but cheaper tickets are available for students and others connected to the university. Parking can be had very cheaply if you don’t mind the walk, and concessions are reasonable, so all in all, you can get a great experience at NSU football games for not a lot of dough. . Extras 3 In addition to the PA announcer and the band, there are a couple of other extras to mention at Dick Price Stadium – the mascot looks phenomenal in a bright yellow-and-green Romanesque costume, and the team comes onto the field thru a tunnel nestled in a cloud of green-and-white smoke, which is pretty cool to see. The cheerleaders also do a great job keeping the fans entertained, and the tailgating scene is bustling, with lots of great music blaring from loudspeakers outside the stadium. Final Thoughts If you are in the Norfolk area, or if your favorite team happens to be heading that way, I think you would have a great time attending an NSU Spartan football game – if you plan for the traffic and parking, you shouldn’t have any issues.

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

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 The Ballpark E. Emerson Cummings Boulevard Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064 The Ballpark website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 5,500 Second Act at The Ballpark The Ballpark was built in 1984 to be the home for the AAA Maine Guides, which lasted only five seasons before moving to Moosic, PA. The park was unable to attract another baseball team, and was utilized as a summer concert venue as it sat mostly dormant. Over the years, the ballpark sat neglected, overgrown with brush, and was falling apart. It became a popular spot for drug use, fires, and vandalism. A lightning strike at the site caused a significant amount of fire damage in 2007. The town of Old Orchard Beach considered plans to sell the land for development, and it was a mainstay on Ballpark Digest’s endangered ballparks list. The tide turned for The Ballpark in 2008, when a volunteer group called the Ball Park Group began to clean up and renovate the ballpark for special events and ballgames. The Raging Tide moved to Maine and began calling The Ballpark home in 2011. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand at The Ballpark, and it offers a very limited menu consisting of hot dogs ($3), burgers ($4/$4.50), French fries ($3), and nachos ($2.75). Fans looking to snack can choose from cotton candy ($2), popcorn ($1.50), chips ($0.75), or candy bars ($0.75). Bottles of Pepsi products can be bought for $2. Ice cream novelties are available for $2.50. Fans looking for a more adult alternative can choose from several varieties of beer and wine. The beer garden at The Ballpark has bottles of Coors Light ($4), Corona, Guinness, and Heineken for $5. Angry Orchard Cider and glasses of wine are available for $5, and Cayman Margarita can be had for $6. Fans looking to purchase Raging Tide gear will be happy with the selection of t-shirts, hats, and novelties available at the souvenir stand. Atmosphere 1 Try as you may, there is just no way to create a festive atmosphere when a couple hundred people are scattered in a 5,000 seat concrete stadium. To their credit, the Raging Tide staff do try, with music, games, and promotions throughout the game. The staff are very friendly and genuinely grateful to see the fans that do show up. Unfortunately, there is only so much they can do, and their efforts generally fall flat. Add to the mix one of the saddest looking mascots in creation, and the atmosphere at a Raging Tide game is not the most electric you will ever come across. Neighborhood 5 The Ballpark is located in a secluded, wooden area adjacent to the Old Orchard Beach High School and behind the Old Orchard Beach Police and Fire Departments. There is little to see or do in the immediate vicinity of The Ballpark, but that changes in a hurry as you head towards the ocean. About a mile away from the ballpark is the Palace Playland, the Pier, and other Old Orchard Beach attractions. The area, once one of the largest tourist destinations on the east coast, has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to hurricanes, fires, and blizzards. The current incarnation of the beachfront is significantly smaller than past versions, but still attracts a great deal of tourist traffic during the summer, particularly from Quebec. It is not uncommon to hear conversations taking place in French during the summer months. The year-round population of Old Orchard Beach is under 9,000, but swells to almost 75,000 during the summer. Interestingly enough, Old Orchard Beach is the closest oceanfront beach to Montreal, explaining the lure of the area to French Canadian tourists. In fact, most shops in the area have signs in their windows proclaiming “ici nous parlons Francais” (we speak French here). The Futures League season begins in June, when the tourist industry is just getting started. If you venture to the area later in the year, you may be dealing with an entirely different crowd. Fans 2 Crowds at The Ballpark can vary wildly from night to night. In their three seasons in Old Orchard Beach, attendance has averaged in the 500 range. On weekend nights the Tide can attract close to 1,000 fans, and crowds less than 100 have also been reported. The fans that do show up are knowledgeable about the team, and enthusiastic about their efforts. Access 3 Old Orchard Beach is easily accessible via Interstate 95 (Maine Turnpike). Simply take the Interstate 195 exit, which will quickly turn into route 5. The Ballpark is located just off of Route 5 behind the Police and Fire Stations. Fans seeking alternate methods of transportation to the seaside town will be pleased to know that Amtrak’s Downeaster train stops just feet from the beach during the summer months. From there, The Ballpark is a short cab ride away. Once inside The Ballpark, there is more than enough room to spread out. With a capacity of 5,500, The Ballpark is the largest facility in the Futures League. The concourse is located underneath the grandstand, and is more than large enough to accommodate even the largest Raging Tide crowd. One major drawback of the concourse area is that it isn’t paved or landscaped, so fans with unsteady gait should step carefully. Also, if you can help it, don’t look up. The underside of the seating bowl is not the most attractive view one will come across at a ballpark. Despite the great efforts of the volunteers who have tirelessly worked at renovating The Ballpark, it still has an unfinished feel to it. The concession stands and locker rooms at The Ballpark are built to resemble the pine cabins typically seen in lodges and campgrounds in this area. The bathrooms are new, clean, and more than large enough for any Raging Tide crowd. Return on Investment 4 Tickets at The Ballpark cost $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $2 for children aged 7-12. Children under 7 are admitted for free, as are active members of the military. Free parking is available in the large parking lot adjacent to The Ballpark. Food will not cost you an arm and a leg either, so a night at a Raging Tide game is a very affordable alternative to many other activities in the area. Extras 2 The experience at The Ballpark is a bare bones one, to be sure. The staff are friendly and helpful, which goes a long way towards covering up the shortcomings of the ballpark. Still, ballpark aficionados will undoubtedly enjoy visiting this once endangered field. The locker rooms here are located in a separate building located behind and underneath the seating bowl, meaning that the players have to walk the concourse through the crowd after the game to get to their lockers. It was an autograph hound’s nirvana back in the day, and that tradition continues today. The Raging Tide players were more than accommodating to any children wanting their items signed. Final Thoughts After spending a day at The Ballpark many fans will marvel over the fact that this ballpark was ever considered adequate for AAA baseball. It’s even more unbelievable that Sports Illustrated once called The Ballpark the best ballpark in minor league baseball. It’s entirely made of concrete, it’s cold, and it’s ugly. It was only used for five seasons before the Guides moved on to the greener pastures of Moosic, PA and the equally unattractive Lackawanna County Stadium. Still, it’s a monumental achievement that it is still standing and in usable condition. Kudos to the volunteers who gave their time, energy, and money to preserve a ballpark that would have easily faded away into history. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos Courtesy of Zach Beeson Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 El Nido de los Águilas Calz. Cuauhtémoc s/n, Las Fuentes, 21239 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico Águilas de Mexicali website El Nido de Los Águilas website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 17,000 Enjoying Baseball in The Nest in Mexicali The Águilas de Mexicali (Mexicali Eagles) are members of Liga ARCO Mexicana del Pacífico (Mexican Pacific League), a 10-team winter loop that operates from October to January, with the champion advancing to the Caribbean Series in February. The ball club calls the 17,000-seat El Nido de Los Águilas , its home ballpark, AKA The Nest in English. The stadium debuted in 1976 and incorporates a double-deck seating bowl, a large concession area plaza behind the backstop of the area, and no seating behind the outfield walls. The stadium is a cash-only venue except for the gift shop and a few concession stands in the plaza. The Águilas have won four championships in the league (1986,1989,1999, and 2017), plus one Caribbean Series championship in 1986. The club was founded in 1976 but has a history that dates back to 1948. Food & Beverage 4 The stadium has an abundance of foods, from regional favorites to ballpark staples. Vendors sell more items in the seating bowl or back of the grandstand in the plaza area, where tables, chairs, benches, and concession stands are designed in a state-fair fashion. The Crazy Fries stand is among the most popular and will take credit cards. French fries are topped with fried chicken, carnitas, roasted chicken, beans, or bacon and then drenched with either nacho or parmesan cheese, buffalo/barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. There are other local favorites, including street foods of tacos, refried beans, tamales, sweet pastries, patitas (pigs feet), taquitos, quesadillas, and burritos. Fans can enjoy pizza slices, hot dogs, nachos topped with carne, chicken tenders, french fries, and Buffalo wings. Fans can wash all of this down with Pepsi products, Tecate beer, micheladas, clamato, pina coladas, palomas (tequila and grapefruit soda), and fresh fruits served in cups: jicama, pineapple, melon, coconut, and mango. Atmosphere 4 The game day atmosphere is festive and exciting. An Aguilas game is more like a party than a baseball game. The first noticeable thing is the music that plays, not only in between innings but during plays. The only time it’s silent is between pitches to the batter. The music ranges from Norteño, reggaeton, pop, and popular sounds. Vendors hock food and drinks up and down the aisles, yelling aloud for potential sales and adding a mix to the night’s procedures. Cheerleaders and dancers entertain folks behind the foul lines. The ushers are set up at the front of each aisle, checking tickets to make sure they are in the correct section of the stadium. Neighborhood 3 Mexicali has a population of over a million people and is one of the safest border cities in Mexico. The city offers family entertainment with all the attractions that a big city has to offer. There are museums, retail stores, parks, and a historic downtown known for its rich Chinese heritage. The stadium is about 10 minutes from downtown in a residential area. Mexicali has a population of over a million people and is one of the safest border cities in Mexico. The city offers family entertainment with all the attractions that a big city has to offer. There are museums, retail stores, parks, and a historic downtown known for its rich Chinese heritage. The stadium is located about 10 minutes from downtown in a residential area. Just north of the ballpark is Main Street, which features local restaurants that offer tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. The Historic Center is home to a variety of restaurants, street foods, and Chinatown, where some of the country's best Chinese restaurants exist. La Chinesca is a system of underground tunnels built by Chinese immigrants who once lived there to escape the heat (later xenophobia) and housed bars, casinos, and brothels in the early 20th century. Families continued to live underground up until the 1970s. Popular tourist attractions include el Museo Sol Del Nino (children 's museum), Centro Estatal de las Artes (art gallery), and the Bosque y Zoológico de la Ciudad (city zoo). Misión Dragón is a public space with trees, live music, food, and drinks. It is also a great spot for photos. Fans 3 The fans support the Aguilas quite well during the season. The games are loud, joyous, and filled with revelry. It should be noted that games cool down at night and a lightweight jacket or long sleeve shirt is required at times during the fall and winter months of northern Baja California. Access 4 The stadium has one of the largest capacities in the league, with 17,000 seats. The stadium features a lower-level and upper-deck seating bowl, along with general seating behind the right and left field walls. The plaza behind the backstop offers an area where fans can grab something to eat or drink with ease. However, fans are not permitted to move around to different sections of the stadium to sit unless they have a ticket for that area. Return on Investment 4 Águilas tickets start as low as 30 Pesos ($2 US) for seating general admission behind the right and left field wall. The upper deck seating ranges from 230 to 350 Pesos ($13 to $20 US), while lower deck seating ranges from 450 to 700 Pesos ($26 to $40 US). If driving to the game, a fee of 30 Pesos is what it costs to park your car. Food prices differ from 175 Pesos ($10 US) for Crazy Fies, 87 Pesos ($5) for a Tecate beer, and 35 Pesos for fresh fruits and snacks. Team merchandise is on par, perhaps slightly higher for caps, with what you will find at Double-A and Triple-A ballparks in the United States. The gear is made by the same manufacturers. Extras 3 The stadium earns several extra points for its vibrant atmosphere during the game, the abundance of regional foods and drink specialties, and a final point for the colorful vendors that add to the excitement with their vocal production. Final Thoughts The Águilas provide baseball excitement from October to January each year in Mexicali. Baseball is on par with higher minor league levels in the States, and the fans are intuitive to what takes place on the field. Just when you think baseball is over after the World Series, the Águilas and the rest of the Mexican Pacific League are just getting started. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

The MGM Grand Garden Arena is a multi-purpose arena located within the MGM Grand Las Vegas hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip. The arena has a seating capacity of 17,000 with bleachers and is used for a wide range of events including concerts, boxing, and mixed martial arts. Despite its relatively small size, it’s one of the most iconic arenas in the world and frequently hosts high-profile events. It has a long history with WWE and is set to host SmackDown this March. History of the MGM Grand Garden Arena The MGM Grand Garden Arena was built in 1993 and quickly became one of the most iconic live spots in the USA. Its main use has been for UFC and boxing events, with many super fights in recent times such as Oscar De La Hoya vs Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007 and Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury II in 2020 . It has also hosted the Latin Grammy Awards, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and the Billboard Music Awards. In terms of sports, the arena is home to the Vegas Golden Knights of the NHL. There are also various concerts that take place there every year. Ariana Grande, Shakira, and the Killers have all performed there recently. The MGM Grand Garden Arena is located within the famous MGM Grand hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, which is the largest hotel in the world with 6,852 rooms. It’s one of the longest-running sites in the Nevada gambling hub, having previously existed as the Marina Hotel and Casino between 1975 and 1990. The casino itself makes it into the top ten list of largest casinos in the world , with an area of 171,000 square feet. There are more than 2,500 slots and 139 table games to choose from. SmackDown Set to Come to MGM Grand in March Wrestling has long been associated with the MGM Grand, and it has hosted numerous events from UWF and All Elite Wrestling in the past. Recently, it held its first-ever WWE pay-per-view event. This was Money in the Bank in 2022, which was originally scheduled to be held at the Allegiant Stadium . The success of that event persuaded WWE organizers to make a return to the arena this year. WWE Friday Night SmackDown is one of the biggest wrestling events on the planet, and it takes place in a different location every week. It usually tours around the USA, but it has also been held in other countries such as the United Kingdom and Japan. To date, it has been broadcast from a whopping 163 arenas around the world. This year, the event will be in the MGM Grand Garden Arena in March, and viewers can expect to see the likes of Braun Strowman , The Brawling Brutes, and Charlotte Flair. WWE fans are soon to get a taste of how the MGM Grand Garden Arena is the perfect setting for fighting events. It’s highly likely that there will be many more wrestling contests to come there in the future.

Photos by Michael Rusignuolo, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Roger Dean Stadium 4751 Main St Jupiter, FL 33458 St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training website Roger Dean Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 6,871 Rulers of the Roost Although it may seem as if Roger Dean Stadium is named for a local luminary, in reality, the 6,871-seat stadium is named for a less-lofty local car sales magnate, making it one of two parks in the Grapefruit League related to car sales (the other being Florida Auto Exchange Stadium in Dunedin). But the park is unique in that it (currently) is the only Grapefruit League park hosting two teams: the Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals. The park was originally shared by the Cardinals with the late, lamented Expos, but in 2003, the Expos became the Nationals and sought other facilities in Viera, while the Marlins moved in to fill the void. The park is neatly split between the two teams, with the Marlins signs and facilities on the left side of the park, and the Cardinals on the right side. Though the park is split evenly on paper, the Cardinals dominate the park with their more massive and rabid fan base, coupled with their lengthy and storied history. While it is one of the more expensive experiences in the Grapefruit League, Roger Dean Stadium makes up for it with an engaged fan base and great location. Food & Beverage 3 The food and drinks are mostly located in the exterior walkway that surrounds the seating area. Standard ballpark fare (hot dogs, pizza, burgers) are available at most concessions, with a twist or two such as brats and cheesesteaks thrown in. The pick of the ballpark grub is either the Super Dean Dogs (available at the “Stadium Favorites” concessions for $9.50), a truly jumbo dog in a pretzel bun that comes with an order of chips, and the “Island Grill” concessions, which serve up Shrimp Po-Boys, Crab Cake Sliders, and Mahi-Mahi Tacos ($9 for each of the selections). The MVP Grille brings some tastes from St. Louis to the stadium in the form of St. Louis dogs, Cubs Hater dogs (both $9), and pancake & sausage on a stick ($4.50, with maple dipping sauce). Try the pancake on a stick just to say you did. The concession also has selections from the Miami club, but Sonny BBQ is the only thing to recommend there ($9.75). For a team from St. Louis, the beer selection at the park is disappointingly modest. Your choices are mostly the Bud family, Rolling Rock, and Yuengling, but Monk in the Trunk, Landshark, and some other microbrew selections are available at smaller concessions around the park. One of those concessions with specialty beer, Island Cocktails, also doles out mixed drinks and cocktails, as well as wine ($8 for each). Atmosphere 3 Roger Dean Stadium has a fairly common minor-league layout. The field boxes (closer to the field) run from outfield to outfield around home plate. A second tier of loge seats, separated by the main walkway from the field boxes, runs from about third to first. Above them, the press box and luxury suites sit right around home plate. A party tent and small bleachers section minor leagues out in the onion theleft field, and the Cassidy Cool Zone (an air-conditioned group area with an all-you-can-eat buffet) and a small picnic berm sit in right. The view in the outfield is a pair of executive offices (the Marlins on the left and the Cardinals in right). The doors open two hours before game time from three gates arrayed around the park. Cardinals fans show up early and in great numbers, so Gate C is a slightly better option. The left side/right side split between the teams holds up everywhere. The Cardinals use the first base side as their home dugout, and Cardinals autograph seekers can hang out by the player gates outside of right field–but get there early. Crowds start forming way before game time as Cardinals fans make a day of it looking for signatures. Both Roger Dean residents offer a limited number of on-field experiences during home batting practice for $15 per person. For the cost, you get a personalized lanyard and an escort to a roped-off area behind home plate for the duration of batting practice and the best chance at autographs. You have to check in at the desk outside of Gate B, and it isn’t marked. If you’re looking for home autographs, get there early (it opens three hours before game time), as starting players take batting practice first and then disappear to the practice fields. Like everything else in the park, the Cardinals practice fields are on the right side. Follow the sidewalk down right field, and you’ll see the entrance. Once again, get there early to get choice seats at the fields where the major leaguers will be using. All the seats offer good views close to the action, but there is nearly no cover from the elements unless you spring for a luxury box or group event area. The only regular seating with any sort of protection is the last three rows of the loge boxes in front of the press box but not directly underneath the first base luxury boxes. Sitting anywhere else? Load up on sunscreen and pray it doesn’t rain. The Cardinals mascot doesn’t make the trip down for spring training, and there are limited between-inning contests compared to a regular minor or major league contest. These are more modest with the new between-inning pace-of-play clock, but the fun is still to be had. Neighborhood 4 Roger Dean Stadium is located within the planned community of Abacoa in Jupiter, FL. It is a development of different areas, each themed on a different architecture, with plenty of shopping and dining available. A Florida Atlantic University campus also lies just south of the park. Jupiter houses many top-notch golf courses that attract PGA talent, and it is a boon for any duffers. In addition to the ocean beach and the inlet area to the northeast of the park, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is of historical significance, and the Hibel Museum on the FAU campus offers a dash of culture. The Abacoa development has a lot of restaurant and bar options within a few blocks of the park. Those looking for a drink after the game will find JJ Muggs Stadium Grill right across the street, while Rooney’s Public House, and DAS Biergarten are just slightly further down the road. Eateries include the Copa Cabana, Le Metro Neighborhood Bistro, Costello’s Trattoria, Jumby Bay Island Grill, and Hokkaido Hibachi & Sushi. Fans 5 There is a slight discrepancy in the commutes for fans of both tenants of the park. It is over a thousand miles for the Redbird backers, and under a hundred for the Fish fanatics. You might think that Miami fans would be out in droves an hour and a half from home, but unfortunately, the Marlins lack of fan base at home extends slightly to the north. That is not the case for the Cardinals. They don’t have a reputation as one of the best baseball cities in America for nothing. Cardinals fans swarm south for the first sniff of baseball for the year, and Cardinals spring training tickets can be one of the hardest to get in the entire Grapefruit League. Cardinals fans come out in great numbers and make for a great place to watch a ballgame, spring training, or otherwise. A case in point on the discrepancy is a game between the Cardinals and Marlins where you have to take some time to pick out any Marlins black in the sea of red that dominates the park. Access 4 Jupiter is nestled on the southeast Florida coast, and the park is conveniently right off of both the (toll) Florida Turnpike and I-95. The park is about a half-hour by car from sister Grapefruit League locale Port St. Lucie, a little over two hours away from family vacation hotspot Orlando, and slightly more than an hour and a half to Miami in the south. Parking can be had for $5 for the uncovered grass lots or $10 for one of the parking decks (available for pre-order). For anyone looking to take public transport to the game, Palm Tran Buses on Route 10 ($2 per trip, $5 for unlimited pass) have a stop right by the stadium (University Blvd at Main St), and they serve Jupiter and surrounding cities, such as West Palm Beach. But a car is nearly a necessity for moving about Florida, especially if you’re going to multiple Grapefruit League parks. Palm Beach International airport is just twenty minutes south for those coming from further away. Getting around the park is a breeze. A wide exterior walkway extends from left to right field, servicing all entrances and getting people to the concessions that line the walkway, as well as the stairways up to the seating bowl. Another comfortable walkway splits the field and loge boxes seating areas on the inside of the park. The standing-room sections are on this walkway, which can get congested when the Cardinals are playing. Make your way to your seat in the outer promenade and pop up as near as possible to your seat. Return on Investment 3 Tickets at Roger Dean Stadium are some of the pricier in the Grapefruit League, but given the demand by rabid St. Louis fans, the market can support them. But the Marlins fans surely suffer for the prices that aren’t supported by their more modest history and demand. Tickets are on three tiers (Regular, Premium, and Super Premium). Standing room tickets can go for over $20, and the best seats in the house are what you’d expect for MLB-level seats. Mini-plans and “season” tickets can bring that price down a little, but it is still costly. Food and drink aren’t cheap, either. Many food items go for MLB-level $9 and above. There are some relatively cheap eats (brats go for $5.50 and regular hot dogs for $4.25), and beers run $7.75-$8.50, and a wine and mixed drinks will cost you $8. There are kids' meals (hot dog, chips, and a soda for $5) and some adult combo meals that help make it more affordable, but the prices are going to stay at what the Cardinals fans are willing to pay. It is still cheaper than a game in St. Louis, and the prices are somewhat justified with the storied franchise it houses, but remains on the high end for the Grapefruit League. Extras 3 A $6 magazine program is available, but it is overpriced for the content it provides. Everything as far as signage is split fairly evenly between the Cardinals and the Marlins. Some small plaques commemorate the stadium construction and a county administrator who championed it (Alan Tarlow), and a large plaque commemorating the park’s first Cardinals and Expos season ticket holders is seemingly disregarded behind the home plate concessions. The Palm Beach County Hall of Fame is celebrated in banners along the right field concourse, and a well-appointed brick fan walk is located outside the main entrance, surrounding a copse of trees. There is a small inflatable golf pitch stand for the kids in right field (a nod to the large golf presence in the area), and a sizeable team store hawks merchandise for the Cardinals and Marlins, as well as their minor league franchises which inhabit the park after the spring. Final Thoughts Roger Dean Stadium is a nice ballpark in a great community, and it is hopping when the Cardinals are in town, but it remains one of the more expensive experiences in the Grapefruit League.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Francis Olympic Field 1 Big Bend Blvd St. Louis, MO 63105 WashU Bears website Francis Olympic Field website Year Opened: 1902 Capacity: 3,300 Historic Soccer in St. Louis While the soccer scene in St. Louis is growing thanks to the addition of the city’s MLS franchise, few may be privy to the fact that college soccer is also growing in the area. A stellar example of this is Washington University’s soccer team. Playing in one of the most historic facilities in America, this program has a small but loud fanbase that shows up to games on a regular basis. And with a beautiful location, it is easy to see why. Food & Beverage 1 The biggest downside to games at WashU is the lack of concessions. One single concessions stand is open during games, serving the most basic of stadium fare. If you want anything beyond a soda, hot dog, or chips, you likely will be looking elsewhere before or after the match to satisfy your hunger. Atmosphere 4 The stadium itself seems simple. A throwback soccer pitch in the middle of a running track harkens back to images of the golden era of college athletics. This image is with merit, however, as the stadium itself is indeed the same facility that hosted the 1904 St. Louis Olympics. The large wrought iron gates that greet you as you enter the facility are the same gates that greeted fans and athletes alike in 1904. The stadium is also known as the birthplace of the gold medal, the first main stadium for a modern Olympic games, and was recognized in 2019 by the International Olympic Committee for its historic significance. Walking through these entry gates feels like you are a part of history. Once inside, the stadium features a single section of grandstands underneath a press box also bearing the 1904 Olympics name. Seating is open for all fans and plentiful, but the benches don’t feature backs or individual chairs. Neighborhood 5 The area around Francis Olympic Field is a beautiful part of St. Louis. Located on the west side of the city of St. Louis, the campus itself is a stunning gem. Each of the buildings feature intricate stonework and details, the likes of which few colleges today can showcase. The grounds are perfectly manicured and the neighborhood outside of the campus is equally as beautiful. Not far are restaurants and shops, and a few minutes down the highway is downtown St. Louis. Fans 3 The fans for WashU soccer are what would be expected for college soccer. A solid mix of current students, alumni, and family or friends of players usually make up the majority of fans at the stadium. While not exactly a sellout crowd, the fans know their soccer and cheer along with each play on the field. Access 4 To get to Washington University, several highways can make your task easier. Located near the intersection of I-170 and I-64, the campus features several parking lots near the stadium that serve fans well. Traffic is rarely congested in the area, and signage is plentiful nearby to help you get to the campus. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to WashU men’s soccer are free, which means watching some college soccer in St. Louis is incredibly affordable. Parking on site is also free for fans of athletic events, making this a no-brainer for budget-conscious sports fans. Extras 2 The stadium features a large Olympic rings statue near the entrance of the stadium, commemorating the 1904 St. Louis Olympics – this is a popular photo spot for fans on game days. Inside the stadium, a large ornate stone obelisk stands as a water fountain for fans. Erected by the Class of 1870, it honors the memory of David R. Francis, for whom the stadium was named. Final Thoughts Watching college soccer in a historic sports stadium is something many fans don’t get the opportunity to do. If you find yourself in St. Louis, catching a soccer match at Francis Olympic Field on the campus of Washington University should be near to the top of any sports fan’s list. While not as big a draw as some of the city’s major sports teams, WashU features no less succ

Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig at Kinsley Park in 1927. Photo Courtesy of smallstatebighistory.com Kinsley Park was an athletic field located in Providence, RI, on the shores of the Woonasquatucket River. It was primarily used for minor league baseball, but professional football and soccer games were also held here. It was built by Peter Ludati, a prominent local real-estate developer and part owner of the Providence Steam Roller. Ludati also built the Cycledrome, which served as the home of the Steam Roller from 1925-33. Kinsley Park may be best known as the site of the first night game in National Football League history. The Providence Steam Roller was scheduled to play the visiting Chicago Cardinals on Sunday, November 3. However, heavy rains made their home field, the Cycledrome, unplayable. Rather than lose a potential payday, the game was postponed for 72 hours until the night of the sixth. With the Cycledrome field unfit for use, the game was moved to the Steam Roller’s previous home, Kinsley Park. For the hastily scheduled game, floodlights were brought in to illuminate the field. An account of the game published in the Providence Journal described the system as “33 giant projectors on poles 53 feet high, and nine poles on top of the grandstand.” To help the players see the ball, it was painted white. The Providence Journal reported the ball “looked like a giant egg.” The Cardinals won the game 16-0 behind the running, passing and kicking of Ernie Nevers, who scored all 16 Chicago points. He rushed 23 times for 102 yards and a touchdown and also completed 10 of 15 passes for 144 yards and another touchdown. Nevers also kicked a 33-yard field goal and an extra point. The game attracted over 6,000 fans, making the game a success financially. Seizing the opportunity, Ludati installed floodlights at the Cycledrome for the next season, with other NFL owners soon following suit. Babe Ruth with Tim O'Neil, Photo Courtesy of smallstatebighistory.com In addition to its football notoriety, Kinsley Park also was known as a hot spot for integrated baseball. The ballpark often hosted Negro League games as well as integrated games between teams of black and white players. The first professional baseball game that was played at Kinsley Park occurred in 1921 between the Cleveland Colored Giants, a team made up of black players and the Providence Independents, made up of white players. This game was part of an experiment called the International League, which collapsed after the game, stranding the Cleveland team in Rhode Island. The team stayed in Providence, eventually rebranding as the Providence Giants. The team lasted for three years before a dispute over salaries resulted in the disbandment of the team. Kinsley Park is considered by some as sacred ground for black baseball. Babe Ruth played in Providence for a short time for the Grays in 1914, but that was before the construction of Kinsley Park. He did come back with Lou Gehrig in 1927 as part of a barnstorming tour that stopped at Kinsley Park . Kinsley Park site in 2020, Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Kinsley Park was closed by the end of 1931. It was torn down in 1933. No trace of the field remains. Today only a parking lot stands on the site across from the Nicholson File Company Mill Complex. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Wallace Wade Stadium 110 Bassett Rd Durham, NC 27708 Duke Blue Devils website Wallace Wade Stadium website Year Opened: 1929 Capacity: 40,004 A Football School in Durham The idea of sold-out crowds at Duke is not new. What is new is these crowds showing up en masse for football instead of basketball. Indeed, recent success has meant that Duke fans now have two major sports to cheer for, marking a new dawn for college football in Durham. Housed in a historic stadium on campus adjacent to other sports facilities, Wallace Wade Stadium features renovated and modernized touches on a football facility that has been around for nearly 100 years. Food & Beverage 3 The food options here begin with your standard stadium fare. Hot dogs ($5), pizza ($12-$14), and burgers ($8) can be found, alongside other non-standard options like mozzarella sticks ($10), chicken wings ($12), and Bavarian pretzels ($5). North Carolina BBQ sandwiches run $8 and are a star of the food options. Some stands also feature Bojangles chicken, while drinks such as beer ($9-$11), soda ($4.50-$5.50), and water ($4) are available. Atmosphere 4 The stadium itself is not new, having been constructed in 1929. Despite its age, multiple extensive renovations mean it now features more modern touches and has the look and feel of a new stadium. The nicest aspect is that most stadium entrances enter at the top of the stadium bowl – this means you walk down to your seats instead of up to your seats from the entrance. Most sections in the middle have individual chairs, while the sections on the ends have basic bleachers. However, the sections with seats have had the chairs bolted onto the front side of the seating tiers, meaning the seats tend to lean forward more than usual, which results in most seats feeling like you’re always leaning slightly forward of normal. The main tower features suites and boxes on one side of the stadium, while both sides have team stores, be they indoors or under outdoor tents. Neighborhood 4 Durham and the area around Duke’s main campus are experiencing a revitalization, especially in downtown Durham. The campus itself is beautiful and easy to navigate, with Wallace Wade Stadium sitting next to the school’s soccer stadium and track & field facility. Hotels are plentiful nearby, as are shopping and dining. Raleigh-Durham Airport is also only a 15-minute drive away, meaning that a weekend trip to catch some college sports in town doesn’t involve a lengthy drive out to somewhere far away. Fans 3 Recent success has led to Duke fans turning up in large numbers to football games, something rarely seen in the past. Higher rankings and consistent bowl appearances have meant Duke fans have reason to get excited when football season begins, and both the student section and regular seats are now hot tickets. However, while the physical seats may be filled, it is easy to see that fans here are new to football. Simple things like remaining quiet when Duke is on offense are lost, as fans roar and chant on critical plays. Tailgating around the stadium is plentiful, but only in the lots immediately adjacent to the stadium. In the nearby streets and neighborhoods, it looks like another day in Durham, just with more cars parked. That college football gamely energy is sometimes lacking as well due to the stadium being so open in its construction, meaning the fans are not as loud as they would be in other stadiums. Access 3 The parking at Wallace Wade Stadium is at times less than ideal – free parking is available but is not located near the football stadium, requiring a long hike back to the parking itself. Pay lots are available next to the stadium’s main entrance, but those all require parking passes and fill up quickly on even the quietest of game days, so make sure you purchase parking ahead of time if available. Several free lots are available in the area with shuttle buses to take you to the stadium and back as well. To get to the stadium, you just need to follow the signs locally for the college itself. Located near I-85 and perfectly framed by the 501 and 147 Highways, Duke University is just west of Durham proper. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Duke football start at $42 and go up from there. Considering the difficulty of finding parking, and the potentially expensive prospect of parking in a paid lot nearby as opposed to hiking a bit of a walk to get to the stadium, your cost is relative for Duke games. Whether it is worth the cost and effort also would depend on how much you want to see a game here, as the atmosphere is still learning and growing with the team’s success. Extras 3 The stadium is located near several of the school’s other sports stadiums, and with them, some memorial plaques and statues showcasing the school’s sports history can be seen. Additionally, the main concourse level underneath the suite tower also showcases Duke football’s history thanks to infographics wrapped onto support columns, explaining the team’s origins, the history of the Iron Dukes, and the team’s various bowl wins. Finally, there is a large kids' play zone at the field level beyond the scoreboard that is open to fans before kickoff. Final Thoughts Though they may still be in their growing phase of late, Duke football has a long history. This team is on an upward trajectory, and the fans are moving along with it. While the stadium has history and some updates thanks to recent renovations, it does remain in the simple and basic category of stadium layouts. Nonetheless, the great weather in North Carolina coupled with a stadium that features good views from practically all seats means there is a base level of quality to be expected when attending Duke football games.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.43 Dr. Arthur and Martha Pappas Field 144 University Drive Rindge, NH 09461 New Hampshire Wild website Pappas Field website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 1,500 Call of the Wild The New Hampshire Wild are one of four teams competing in the inaugural season of the Empire Baseball League. They play their home games at Dr. Arthur and Martha Pappas Field on the campus of Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire. The Empire League is a replacement of the North Country Baseball League, which lasted only one season. The NCBL was itself a replacement for the East Coast Baseball League, which disbanded before ever playing a game. The Empire League is a low-budget league designed to give recent college graduates and players with little experience a chance to be signed to higher level league contracts with affiliated or independent teams. The level of play is roughly equivalent to affiliated Rookie or short season A-Level ball. Dr. and Mrs. Pappas were local residents and well-known philanthropists in central Massachusetts and beyond. Dr. Pappas may be more well-known as the Boston Red Sox’ medical director from 1978 to 2002. Food & Beverage 1 There are limited concessions sold at a folding table at the entrance to the ballpark. Assorted chips, candy bars and drinks are offered here. Fans looking for something a little more substantial can select hot dogs or hamburgers cooked while you wait on a Foreman Grill. While the selection is limited, nothing on the menu costs more than three dollars. Some Wild t-shirts are also sold at this table for fans looking for a souvenir. Atmosphere 1 Like every other aspect of the Wild gameday experience, the atmosphere here at Pappas Field is a bare bones one, to be sure. There are no extraneous between inning contests or giveaways here. The only noise that comes from beyond the diamond are PA lineup announcements and between inning music. There are none of the extraneous bells and whistles that have become commonplace throughout the minor leagues. On the plus side, you won’t find a more laid-back place to catch a ball game. Neighborhood 1 Rindge, New Hampshire is a rural town of just over 6,000 inhabitants. The university is located on 1,200 acres of land northwest of downtown. The picturesque campus sits on 1,200 acres overlooking Pearly Pond in the shadows of Mount Monadnock. There is nothing to attract visiting baseball fans within walking distance of Pappas Field. While there are some restaurants and hotels scattered throughout Rindge and neighboring Jaffrey, these are several miles from campus. Fans 1 The Empire League as a whole has had difficulty attracting fans, and the Wild have experienced similar difficulty in this area. The league does not release attendance figures, but during the game attended by this writer on a Saturday night, under 30 fans were in attendance. In speaking with some regular fans (yes, even a crowd this small can have regulars in attendance), they noted that this crowd was on the large side for the Wild. Early reports from the other teams in the Empire League reflect a similar dearth of fans. Access 2 Pappas Field is located on the southeastern edge of the Franklin Pierce University campus in rural Rindge, New Hampshire. Rindge is situated in the southwest corner of New Hampshire, just north of the Massachusetts border. It is located about 25 minutes from Keene, NH and 90 minutes northwest of Boston. There are no highways that serve Rindge. The nearest interstate is I-91, 40 minutes to the west. Fans driving to Franklin Pierce will most likely arrive in Rindge via Route 202 or 119. The grounds at Pappas Field are nicely manicured and easy to navigate. Parking is located in a large lot beyond left field. Paved paths lead to the various seating areas, including 150 molded plastic stadium seats behind home plate. Metal bleachers are located further down each baseline, as well atop the hill beyond the left field fence. Rest room facilities are located in the boat house across the street from the ballpark. Return on Investment 3 Admission to Wild games cost five dollars for general admission seating. There is no charge for parking, and no items at the concession stand cost more than three dollars. Taking in a Wild game is inexpensive, if nothing else. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the Wild’s early attempts to integrate themselves into the community. Local Little League teams are invited to spend their days practicing with the team and stick around for the game. Youngsters can be found shagging foul balls around the ballpark. Final Thoughts To state that the Empire League is experiencing some growing pains would be an understatement. The four teams in the league are struggling to attract fans and sponsors, and the bare bones gameday presentation is a direct reflection of this lack of support. Still, the fact that the league has made it to a second season (their inaugural season was played as the North County Baseball League) offers some hope for the future. As a facility, Pappas Field is a fine place to take in a game. As one of the only lit fields in both the state of New Hampshire and the Northeast-10 Conference, it is in use weeks before other area ballparks, as its EdelGrass Surface allows it to be plowed while other natural grass fields await the spring thaw during the frigid New Hampshire spring. Five NCAA Division II Regional Championships have been held at Pappas Field. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Bob Waters Field at E. J. Whitmire Stadium 291 Catamount Rd Cullowhee, NC 28723 Western Carolina Catamounts website Bob Waters Field at E. J. Whitmire Stadium website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 13,742 Mountain Cats Delivering Whacks Western Carolina University is a member of the North Carolina University System. It is the westernmost school in the University System. WCU’s 600-acre campus is in a valley between the Great Smokey Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was founded in 1889 and now serves more than 12,000 students. The school is particularly known for its computer sciences curriculum and its liberal arts programs. Western Carolina University has had a football program since 1931. The school competes at the FCS level of college football as a member of the Southern Conference. The home field for the Catamounts is Bob Waters Field at A.J. Whitmire Stadium. A.J. Whitmire was a longtime board member for WCU, and Bob Waters was the WCU athletic director/football coach for 20 years. The stadium was built in 1974 but has gone through several renovations over the years. The most current renovations occurred in 2020 when the artificial turf at Bob Waters Field was replaced by a new surface. There are stands on the east and west sides of the field only, with a capacity of 13,742. Food & Beverage 3 There are enough concessions stands at WCU’s stadium to cover the typical crowds for a game very efficiently. Whitmire’s concession stands sell the typical stadium fare, which includes pizza, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and BBQ sandwiches. Snack foods include pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, candy, and funnel cakes. The beverage selections at the concession stands consist of Pepsi brand sodas ($3) The same price is charged for all drink selections, including lemonade, bottled water, and Bojangles sweet tea (this IS the South, y’all!). Alcohol is available at Whitmire Stadium. Atmosphere 4 Even though a game at Western Carolina does not provide you with the buzz you would find at a major college, it does provide you with a great atmosphere to enjoy the game. First of all, note the natural beauty just getting to and from the game. Whitmire Stadium’s setting in the mountain valley is just beautiful with all the fall colors…. did we mention how colorful the stadium is as well? Expect to see the rich purple and gold hues that cover everything on the campus. If you need to find the stadium when you park, simply follow the large purple cat prints on the pavement to the field. Make sure to stop at the school bookstore or one of the merchandise tables in the stadium to get some Catamount cheer gear. If you have small kids with you, check out the bouncy house and other kids’ activities located just outside the stadium. This will wear them down somewhat so they will not get as cross at the game. The layout of Whitmire Stadium is small enough that all the seats on both sides of the field are close to the action. Seating for most fans will be on the East/West sides of the field. The South zone is filled by the Ramsey Center, the home of the Catamount basketball programs. The North end zone features the field house, which has the Paws Porch atop it. Unfortunately, the Porch is limited to major donors to the school. The cheerleaders and the Pride of the Mountains band do a great job of entertaining the crowds throughout the game. Neighborhood 3 Western Carolina University is in Cullowhee, NC, an unincorporated area of Jackson County, North Carolina. In essence, the university’s campus is the town of Cullowhee. There are no restaurants, lodging options, or attractions in Cullowhee. These items can be found seven miles north of Cullowhee on Highway 107 in the town of Sylva, the county seat of Jackson County. Sylva offers a wide range of lodging, dining, and activities for fans traveling to a WCU football game. Dining options include the Lazy Hiker Brewing Taproom and City Lights Cafe.’ Lodging is available at the Blue Ridge Inn or the Holiday Inn Express. A wide range of activities is available for visitors to the area, including the Mountain Heritage Center at WCU, the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Resort, and the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. The city of Asheville, NC, with its many breweries, lodging options, and many attractions is located 52 miles east of Cullowhee. Fans 3 The WCU fan base is mostly made up of WCU alumni, the students at the school, or persons who are affiliated with the school, such as faculty and staff. The main reason there is a relatively small fanbase is due to the isolated location of the school. The fan base may be small, but it is very loud and spirited. There is also a tight-knit sense of community within the fan base. There are plenty of WCU groups available to keep the fanbase energized. These include the efforts of Catamount’s mascot Paws and his friends, the WCU cheerleaders. Musical support is provided by the Pride of the Mountains Marching band. The fans enjoy some great traditions linked to WCU football. The Victory Bell is a transportable bell that takes part in the pre-game parade. It is rung after each WCU score and follows each Catamount win. Access 3 A.J. Whitmire Stadium earns our mid-range score due to its isolated location in the mountains and a great distance from any interstates. You can also expect heavy traffic during the leaf peeper season in the October-November portion of the season. Despite those issues, the roads leading to Cullowhee on state and federal highways are well maintained. Once at the school, the access to the stadium is excellent, as there are several entry gates. You should not experience much of a line at the concession stands, as they are in adequate numbers to serve the typical number of fans at the games. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to a WCU home football game range from $16-36, with the higher price being the seats in between the 40-yard lines. Parking anywhere on campus on gamedays is $10. You should prepay for a parking pass online, as the parking spaces on campus are very limited. Concession prices are very reasonable and should not break the bank. Due to the large number of leaf peepers descending into the mountains during the height of fall color, lodging can be quite expensive in the October-November months. Consider hotels/motels in Clayton, GA for lower prices and a reasonably close-to-campus drive on game days. Extras 4 A Catamount is any type of wild cat such as a cougar, lynx, or bobcat. These types of cats are found in the mountains surrounding the WCU campus. WCU is the only football-playing college in the country using Catamounts as its team nickname. The WCU-Appalachian State University game is considered a rivalry game. The winner of this annual contest takes home the Old Mountain Jug. 28 Catamount players have gone on to play in the NFL. The beauty of the mountains surrounding the Western Carolina campus at their fall peak of color deserves its own extra. Final Thoughts While a football game at Western Carolina University will not match the intensity and large crowds of a major college game, it does offer one of the most picturesque locations to watch a game on a lovely fall afternoon. The fall colors provide a backdrop to the action taking place on the field. The locals are friendly, the prices are reasonable, and the scenery can’t be beaten!

Photo by Jared Goodman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Burlington Athletic Stadium 1450 Graham St Burlington, NC 27217 Burlington Sock Puppets website Burlington Athletic Stadium website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 3,500 The Royal Treatment It’s fascinating that one of North Carolina’s most historic baseball venues wasn’t even constructed in the state. Burlington Athletic Stadium, home of the only rookie advanced team in the Tar Heel State, was built across the border in Danville, Virginia and moved to its present location almost 60 years ago. After moving to the Piedmont city of Burlington, the ballpark was historically known as Fairchild Stadium, named after the nearby Fairchild Aircraft plant. The team was known then as the Burlington Indians and saw many future major league stars pass through, including CC Sabathia, Jim Thome, Bartolo Colon, and Manny Ramirez. Today, these players and more are honored on pennants located on the concourse behind the main grandstand. Food & Beverage 3 With old-school baseball comes old-school concessions. That isn’t a bad thing, but don’t expect any over-the-top food items. Traditional fare is offered at several stands throughout the park, at below average prices. Chowing down is even cheaper on promotional nights when select items are just $1 or $2. Ice cream and ribs are probably the most deviant choices, although sno-balls are sometimes available. Pepsi is the main beverage served, primarily due to its popularity and roots in the region. Atmosphere 4 Burlington Athletic received $1.2 million in upgrades and renovations prior to the 2019 season, which helped immensely in improving the game day experience for fans. Despite the changes, Burlington hasn’t lost the old-timey baseball feel that is always front and center in the Appalachian League circuit. While Minor League Baseball in general has earned a reputation for being outlandish and outrageous in team names and promotions, you won’t find any of that nonsense here in Burlington. Things are very laid back on game days; sound effects and on-field games between innings are kept to a minimum. If your seats are located in the main grandstand, be aware of the extremely steep ramps that lead up from the concourse. They’re somewhat difficult to ascend and descend in good weather, so imagine the difficulty level when it rains. Neighborhood 2 The stadium is located in a residential area of Burlington, near the adjacent town of Graham. In fact, depending on how you approach the park from the interstate, you may pass through this quaint town. That being said, there are no walkable options for fans before or after games. Since one would likely be driving to the ballpark anyway, there isn’t exactly a need for amenities in the immediate area. Retail and restaurant chains are just a short drive away, near I-85/I-40. The towns of Burlington and Elon are also close; both are home to local shops and eateries. Skid’s Drive-In, a Burlington staple, is just a few minutes from the stadium and worth a stop. Fans 3 Burlington typically draws in the upper echelon of the Appy League. It’s not clear whether this is due to the team’s performance (the Royals advanced to the Championship in 2019, losing to Johnson City in 3 games) or the dedication of baseball fans in the area. Regardless, folks show up to support their Royals. Sellouts don’t happen often, but the house is usually packed with a decent number of fans, depending on the night of the week and the opponent. Most fans who show up to games are knowledgeable and involved, but there are a select few who are just there to socialize and aren’t engaged with the action on the field. Access 5 The ballpark is surrounded by parking lots, all of which are free. There is a massive lot directly adjacent to the park; when it fills up, there is a secondary lot not too far away. Note that there’s a bit of a walk involved if you park in this alternate lot, so arrive early if you want to park close. Interstate 85/40 is the main route used to get to the stadium and there are several exits and approaches that can be used depending on the direction that one comes from. Burlington itself is located approximately halfway between the Triad and Triangle regions of North Carolina, meaning the city is almost equidistant from Greensboro and Durham. Within a short drive, there are at least 4 other minor league teams, as well as a multitude of college baseball programs. The region is served by two airports and five major interstates. In the Appalachian League, the Royals might be considered the geographical outlier. The nearest team is in Danville; together, the two clubs are somewhat isolated from the extremely compact league footprint in southern West Virginia, southwest Virginia, and the Tri-Cities region of Tennessee. Return on Investment 4 Tickets on the day of game are between $7 and $10, depending on where you want to sit. This is just a shade higher than the league average, but still extremely affordable and well worth the price. Tickets and concessions for a family of four will run approximately $70. One person can enjoy a solo night out for around $15. Remember, parking is free. Extras 2 One point for the updated ticketing system, which has made significant strides in recent seasons. Today, the simple and easy process for purchasing game tickets is on par with the rest of the minor leagues. A second point is awarded for the rich history of the stadium. The park appeared momentarily in the famous movie Bull Durham and was home to a 27-inning contest in 1988 that lasted more than eight hours, setting the record for the longest continuous single-game solo broadcast in baseball history. Final Thoughts Burlington Athletic Stadium is small-town baseball at its finest. The quaint grounds on which the Royals play almost transport you back in time to the golden age of baseball. While it’s not a modern venue in a vibrant downtown as is the case in other Carolina cities, this Field of Dreams should be on your ballpark bucket list.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Future Legends Complex 801 Diamond Valley Dr Windsor, CO 80550 Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. website Future Legends Complex website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 2,500 A Better Future Awaits Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. at Future Legends Complex This is a review of a facility that is an active work in progress. The Future Legends Complex in Windsor, CO, provides the home for Northern Colorado Hailstorm F.C. The Hailstorm plays in USL League One, the third tier of the American professional soccer pyramid. Unfortunately, the Hailstorm also plays smack-dab in the middle of a construction site. The Future Legends Complex has endured the COVID-19 pandemic, construction delays, and legal entanglements, slowing the progress of what aims to become a massive sports complex a little more than an hour’s drive north of Denver. Despite these hardships, the complex – and the stadium in which the Hailstorm will play – is moving toward completion. In addition to what will become TicketSocket Park, where the Hailstorm will play, the complex will have expansive sports facilities, retail, restaurants, and lodging, all with an eye toward hosting youth sports competitions. Much of this remains in various phases of construction and all of it surrounds the Hailstorm’s current pitch in a temporary facility on what will be developed into TicketSocket Park. Once this happens, a review of a Hailstorm game should dramatically improve. Entrance to Future Legends Complex, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Food & Beverage 3 Even in the facility’s inchoate state, there’s a decent variety of food and drink. The Hailstorm sells gourmet hot dogs at the stadium’s only dedicated concessions stand and each dog costs $9; a plain hot dog sells for $6. A couple of local food trucks, Panhandlers Pizza and Southern Twist Foods set up just outside the stadium and both are quite good. At Panhandlers, a slice of cheese, pepperoni, or sausage deep-dish pizza costs $8 and a gluten-free personal pizza is $12. Southern Twist has a grilled cheese-based menu. An example: its Heat Wave is a grilled cheese sandwich with a ¼-pound burger and pulled pork, drizzled with buffalo sauce and topped with jalapeno peppers ($14). Southern Twist also sells twisted and loaded nachos and fries, ($7-$13); grilled cheese sandwiches with fried bologna, fried spam (yes, spam), and a hot dog (all $8); and traditional, plain grilled cheese sandwiches ($5). There’s one dedicated bar at Future Legends, to the left of the stadium’s entrance once inside. It sells wine by the glass ($13), canned beer ($12 for domestic/import, $14 for premium/craft), cocktails ($10-$18), and hard seltzers ($10). Atmosphere 1 The atmosphere is difficult to assess because there isn’t any atmosphere – yet. Again, the Hailstorm plays in an active construction zone. Fans approach the stadium greeted by an electrical junction box, followed by a walk between cyclone fencing under which weeds have grown to reach the facility’s temporary ticket office. The stadium and many of the other parts of the complex remain under construction, with partially built structures and heavy equipment providing an unsightly backdrop. Plywood separates fans from the neighboring construction areas and the team shop is in a tent. The public address system can be difficult to hear, as well. There is some permanent seating along the stadium’s southwest corner, though it doesn’t offer great views of the action. Metal bleachers are also available on the west side of the pitch. Temporary metal bleachers behind the south goal provide the only other seating. Arguably, the best location to watch a Hailstorm home match is from the standing-room, east sideline. Fans can sit or stand behind temporary barricades, within inches of the pitch’s sideline. This positions the crowd close to the action with the dramatic view of the mountains to the west. But the entire seating arrangement is disjointed. Hopefully, the completed version of the stadium will have a more traditional seating approach. Neighborhood 1 For many of the same reasons that the atmosphere suffers at a Hailstorm game, so does the neighborhood. Much of what should make a great experience has not yet been built. Once that construction is complete, the Hailstorm should play in the middle of a complex that teems with bars, restaurants, and shops. Fans 3 No one will mistake a Hailstorm match for a Tottenham Hotspur or Newcastle United match. But there seems to be an enthusiastic response to the Hailstorm in Northern Colorado. The fans who attend are engaged and pay attention to the action on the pitch. Although the Hailstorm rated 10th out of 12 USL One teams in attendance (1,408 per game). Completion of the stadium and the surrounding complex should bring larger crowds, particularly as the league expands. Access 3 The only way to reach the Future Legends Complex is by car. It’s about seven miles west of Interstate 25, Colorado’s primary north-south interstate, and a half-hour from the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins. So the location isn’t central for many people. There’s also no way to reach the complex via mass transit. Several roads appurtenant to the complex are rural routes that do not appear ideal for bicycling to a match. Additionally, there is not great signage directing fans where to park or even where the stadium is – another change that would improve the match day experience. Once inside, there’s plenty of room to move around. Kids kick soccer balls without bothering anyone in the standing room area on the pitch’s east side. The concourse around the concession areas is sufficiently wide to permit fans to maneuver without issue. Return on Investment 3 A Hailstorm game is a decent bargain. Tickets cost $15 for the standing-room section on the east side of the pitch. Tickets for the bleachers behind the south goal cost $23, while fans can also buy tickets for the corner bleachers ($28) or bleachers on the west sideline ($33). Parking is free while concession prices are in line with reasonable expectations. . Extras 1 The Northern Colorado Rain FC will bring professional women’s soccer to Centennial State and will begin competing at TicketSocket Park in 2024 in the USL W professional league. Props to ownership for developing soccer in northern Colorado. Final Thoughts This review should rightly be an “Incomplete.” Much about what should provide the essence of a Hailstorm match is still under construction. Until that construction is completed – especially TicketSocket Park – fans will feel like they need PPE to enjoy a match. However, team ownership (which includes several retired professional athletes) aims to build an ambitious complex that should significantly enhance the Hailstorm experience.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Harold Alfond Sports Stadium 50 Tunk Rd Orono, ME 04469 Maine Black Bears website Harold Alfond Sports Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 10,000 The Maine Event Morse Field at Harold Alfond Stadium is a 10,000 seat stadium located on the campus of the University of Maine at Orono. Constructed and designed almost entirely by Maine companies and financed entirely by private donations, Alfond Stadium cost $6.1 million to complete in 1998. The field was named in honor of Phillip and Susan Morse, class of 1964 alumni, who donated over two million dollars for the playing surface, scoreboard, and lights. The grandstand was built as a result of a donation of over three million dollars by longtime Maine athletic booster Harold Alfond. In 2008 the Morses again made a million dollar donation to the university to install Field-Turf at the stadium. The University of Maine hosted its first football team in 1892. The team has experienced their fair share of success over the years, winning twelve conference championships and appearing in the Tangerine Bowl in 1965. Longtime members of Division 1-AA/FCS, the Black Bears now compete in the Colonial Athletic Association. UMaine has appeared in the Division 1-AA/FCS playoffs seven times, advancing to the second round on three occasions. Their last appearance in the playoffs was their first ever post-season home game in 2013. Twenty-five Black Bear alumni have gone on to play in the National Football League. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions at Alfond Stadium cover the basics, and little more. There is a small concession stand located under the main grandstand, which offers your stadium basics. Hungry Black Bear fans can select hot dogs, pizza or nachos. Assorted snacks, including popcorn, pretzels and candy are available. A second portable stand by the main entrance offers hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken fingers along with french fries and onion rings. Coca-Cola products are featured here. Fans looking for adult beverages should head over to the beer garden located beyond the south end zone. Coors Light, Blue Moon, and brews from local favorites Shipyard and Sea Dog Breweries can be found here. You can also purchase a pulled pork sandwich, chili or nachos while in the beer garden. Hot chocolate and coffee are popular choices on chilly Maine fall days. Stadium Journey recommends the whoopie pies, which are made locally and will satisfy any sweet tooth. Atmosphere 3 College football in the northeast is generally not a big deal, featuring small crowds and a more laid-back atmosphere than what is generally found in other parts of the country. While Alfond Stadium attracts decent crowds, especially by New England standards, you will find a typical New England football experience here. The scene is laid-back and the fans are friendly and welcoming. It’s far from the life-and-death struggle that is big-time college football. There is an active, if relaxed, tailgating scene here at Alfond Stadium. Season ticket holders are given prime real estate right next to the south end zone, and all the lots near the stadium are filled with flags, fans and UMaine’s black and blue colors. Maine features a very large marching band and cheerleading squad, which are active throughout the game. The school’s mascot, Bananas the Bear, is entertaining but doesn’t leave the sideline. There is an excellent turnout by the student body, but their home is located on the opposite sideline from the main grandstand, which minimizes their effect on Alfond Stadium’s noise level. Neighborhood 2 The University of Maine campus is located in the small town of Orono, a town in central Maine about 15 miles north of Bangor. The campus is located on the banks of the Stillwater River, a couple of miles north of downtown. There isn’t much within walking distance of campus. Visiting fans can find a few chain restaurants out by Interstate 95, but if looking for dining or lodging options in town, you’ll want to head downtown by the confluence of the Stillwater and Penobscot Rivers. For a small town with a population of just over 11,000, Orono has some good dining options. The original location of Pat’s Pizza, a Maine pizza institution, can be found on Mill Street. The Family Dog is a favorite spot of the student body. Fans looking for a more traditional pub experience can check out the Orono Brewing Company, Woodman’s Bar and Grill, or Bear Brew Pub. Many visiting fans will choose to travel to nearby Bangor, Maine’s third largest city, where there are more options for dining, lodging and entertainment. Be sure to stop by the giant Paul Bunyan statue, right in front of the Cross Insurance Center , for a photo. Bangor’s most famous son, Stephen King, resides nearby, and his home is a popular spot for visitors and pictures. Fans 3 UMaine’s attendance can vary from year to year. You can expect to see a crowd anywhere in the range of 5,000-9,000 fans on any given day. In 2017 the team averaged about 7,000 fans per game, which is a bit below the Colonial Athletic Association average, but not bad for this part of the country. The fans that fill Alfond Stadium are a mix of alumni and locals, as this is truly the only game in town. The next closest Division One football team is over 200 miles away. As is typically the case in the northeast, fans are pretty reserved during the action. Even though the tailgating lots open three hours before kickoff, don’t expect a rowdy scene here at UMaine. Fans are certainly welcoming to visitors. There is a good turnout from the student body, who fill much of the bleachers on the far side of Alfond Stadium. Unfortunately, since they sit away from most of the crowd here, their effect of the atmosphere is diminished. Access 4 Besides the fact that the University of Maine is located over 200 miles from any other Division One football program, it is very easy to get to Alfond Stadium. Simply take exit 193 (Stillwater Ave / Old Town) off of Interstate 95, cross the river and take a right onto College Avenue. Alfond Stadium and the rest of UMaine’s athletic facilities will be on your left hand side about a half mile up the road. Alfond Stadium is located on the northern edge of the UMaine campus, in between Alfond Arena and Mahaney Diamond . Parking is available in several parking lots surrounding the facilities, as well as in lots throughout the campus. Seating at Alfond Stadium is located on either side of the field, with no seats beyond either end zone. The main grandstand consists of individual stadium seats and aluminum benches without backs depending on the level of ticket you have purchased. On the far side of the facility are additional bleacher seats where the students and band sit. Concessions and rest rooms are located underneath the main grandstand. Additional concessions are located near the southwest entrance, with the beer garden located adjacent to the south end zone. Lines form at halftime, so time your visits appropriately. Also, beware the giant stuffed black bear in the men’s room! Return on Investment 4 Tickets to UMaine football games are sold at three price levels: individual stadium seats for $35, midfield bleacher seats for $25 and other bleacher seats for $15. Parking in the tailgating lots C and D adjacent to the stadium costs $20, while other nearby lots are free of charge. If heading up to UMaine for homecoming, more of the lots are opened for tailgating, but they will also incur a charge. Should you arrive late or if the lots are filled, free parking is available all over campus. With inexpensive concessions, an afternoon at Alfond Stadium offers an affordable entertainment option for Maine sports fans. Extras 2 If free swag is your thing, be sure to check out the local vendors who set up shop by the southwest entrance. UMaine branded gear, including rally towels, t-shirts, programs, posters and more are available to Black Bear fans in this area. The Bear Necessities Shop is open next door to Alfond Stadium inside the Alfond Arena. The arena is stocked with all kinds of Black Bear gear. You can even check out the home of the Maineiacs while you’re here. Final Thoughts UMaine’s location in the far northeastern corner of the country makes it a destination only for the most ardent college football travelers. If you do find yourself in Orono on a beautiful fall afternoon, be prepared for friendly, passionate fans enjoying some college football in a relaxed manner in a solid facility. Pair a visit to Alfond Stadium with a game next door at Alfond Arena to see Maine’s favorite sport, hockey, and you have yourself the makings of a great day in central Maine. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Yale Bowl 81 Central Ave New Haven, CT 06515 Yale Bulldogs football website Yale Bowl website Year Opened: 1914 Capacity: 61,446 A Second Century of Football at the Yale Bowl Football has been played at Yale since 1872. The team originally played at Yale Field, a 33,000-seat venue that eventually proved to be inadequate for the popular team’s needs. Charles A. Ferry, class of 1871, designed a new stadium for the university that would seat over 70,000 fans. Even though capacity has been reduced over the years, it remains the largest university-owned stadium in FCS. In its century of existence, the Yale Bowl has hosted National Football League games, international soccer friendlies, concerts and countless other events. Its unique design inspired imitators across the nation, including the Rose Bowl and Michigan Stadium. The Yale Bowl was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Yale University was the most successful college football team in the formative years of the sport, winning 27 national championships between 1872 and 1909, as well as two of the first three Heisman Trophies. The school boasts 100 All-Americans, 28 College Football Hall of Famers, the first professional football player and several coaching legends among its alumni. Thirty-one former Bulldogs have gone on to play in the National Football League. Food & Beverage 3 There are several concession stands that line the outer edge of the Yale Bowl property. These stands don’t stray far from stadium basics, but fans should find what they need. Burgers, hot dogs and sausage sandwiches anchor the menus here. Veggie burgers are available for fans looking for an alternative. Assorted snacks, including nachos, candy, popcorn, fried dough and pretzels also dot the menus. Mr. B’s Ice Cream truck is a popular spot for younger fans. Not every stand has the same menu, so a bit of searching may be necessary to find what you are looking for. Coca-Cola products are featured at the Yale Bowl, and alcohol is not sold during Yale football games. Atmosphere 3 If you’re in New Haven for the annual edition of “The Game” crank this score all the way up to the maximum. Crowds of over 50,000 pack Yale Bowl whenever Harvard comes to town, and the atmosphere ratchets up accordingly. At a typical Yale football game, the atmosphere is much more sedate. While the Yale staff put on a good show, even a crowd of 10,000 leaves the Yale Bowl mostly empty. On the plus side, there is A LOT of room to spread out and roam this large facility. All the elements of a typical college game day experience can be found here, including the cheerleading squad, the Yale Precision Marching Band and Handsome Dan, the original live mascot. The current Handsome Dan, an Olde English Bulldog named Walter, is the 18th Handsome Dan to prowl the sidelines. There is an active, but laid-back, tailgating scene in the many lots adjacent to the Yale Bowl. The team throws a Fan Fest with games, giveaways and a giant inflatable bulldog overseeing the whole scene. After the game, fans are able to go down onto the field and play catch. Neighborhood 3 The Yale Bowl is not located within the downtown Yale campus, but about a mile and a half to the west on the West Haven town line. Visiting fans will not find a whole lot to do in the immediate vicinity of the Yale Bowl. Historic Yale Field , Reese Stadium , and the Connecticut Tennis Center (the former home of the WTA’s Connecticut Open event) are adjacent to the football stadium. Visiting fans may enjoy exploring the Yale campus and downtown New Haven while in the area. The Yale campus is noted for its unique architecture, and New Haven has a well-deserved reputation as a foodie hotspot, with excellent bars and restaurants located throughout the city. A couple of spots in particular may be of interest to visiting fans. Just blocks from the old campus is Louis’ Lunch, which claims to be the birthplace of the hamburger. New Haven is also home to a unique brand of brick oven pizza, called apizza by locals. Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s Apizza, located just over a block apart on Wooster Street, are world famous for this pizza style. Many locals tout a third location, Modern Apizza, located only a half mile from campus. Fans looking for lodging during their visit to New Haven will find no shortage of choices around the Yale campus. A detailed list of hotels can be found here . Fans 3 The average yearly attendance for Yale football fluctuates wildly from season to season depending on if the Bulldogs host the annual Harvard-Yale game. While a crowd of over fifty thousand can be expected for Harvard games, for other games, crowds range between 7,000-10,000. Expect Ivy League games to be better attended than non-conference tilts. Either way, there is plenty of room to spread out in this 60,000-seat facility. Yale football attendance has been in a steady decline since the glory days of the program, when forty thousand fans would regularly show up at the Yale Bowl. Before the Ivy League downgraded to FCS in 1981, the team still averaged twenty thousand fans per game. At a Yale football game, you can expect to see a healthy dose of fans who have been coming to games for decades alongside casual fans, families and students. There doesn’t seem to be a large turnout by the student body, or a cohesive student section, but this may be a factor of playing in such a large facility. Access 4 The Yale Bowl is easy to find. Simply take Exit 44 and head north on Ella T. Grasso Boulevard. After about two and a half miles, take a left onto Derby Street. The legendary columns of Walter Camp Field will be on your right. Most of the parking is located on Central Street, just past the stadium complex. Be aware that Yale football has adopted a clear bag policy for all games starting in 2019. Bags can be purchased at stands just outside all gates. Check the Game Day Central Page for more information. Once you pass by the statue of Handsome Dan that guards the main gate and enter the stadium, it may be hard to believe you are steps from a facility with a capacity of over 60,000. While many football stadiums look like giant spaceships dropped in the middle of an open field, the Yale Bowl couldn’t be more unassuming. When the stadium was built over 100 years ago, its builders simply dug a big hole in the ground and used the dirt to build up a large berm all around the hole. The seating bowl was built into this berm. It was a revolutionary design at the time and influenced the design of later stadia, such as the Rose Bowl and Michigan Stadium . Surrounding the Yale Bowl is a wide paved concourse where you will find the concession stands and buildings that house the restrooms. These restrooms may be dated, but they are plenty large enough for even the biggest Yale football crowd. Fans will enter the seating bowl through one of 30 long portals, which deposit fans onto a walkway about halfway up the seating bowl. This walkway circles the entire field, as does a second walkway that runs along the top of the seating bowl. Be sure to check out the views from the top of the Yale Bowl while you’re here. All seats at the Yale Bowl consist of wooden bleachers with backs. Many of the bleachers have been replaced and all have been painted in recent years, but some old bleachers remain in spots. Luckily, if you happen to sit on a bench that looks like prime splinter territory, there’s lots of room to move around. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Yale football games are a great bargain, ranging in price from $12-$20. Discounts are given to children and seniors. While seats are sold only in the sections between the 20-yard lines, fans are able to roam around the entirety of the Yale Bowl. Parking in the lots surrounding the Yale Bowl costs five dollars. If heading to New Haven for the Harvard-Yale game, you must purchase parking in advance. Extras 3 Extra points are awarded for the sense of history here at the Yale Bowl. While Yale football is far from the national power it was during the first half of the 20th century, the football played here continues to be of a high level. To this day, Yale ranks fifth all-time in wins in college football history. Be sure to check out Jensen Plaza by the main entrance, where every letterman in Yale football history has their name engraved in the bricks. Traditions abound at the Yale Bowl, from the many Ivy League championship banners that surround the field to Handsome Dan, the first live mascot in college sports. If you plan to visit Yale for the latest incarnation of “The Game,” the annual matchup between Yale and Harvard, expect much, much more from the Yale Bowl. Played annually since 1875, the Harvard-Yale rivalry is one of the most storied in the nation attracting over 50,000 fans when the game is held in New Haven. The accompanying tailgating scene alone is worth the price of admission. Final Thoughts While Yale football is far removed from its glory days, any college football fan should be sure to visit the Yale Bowl at least once. It looks remarkably similar to how it looked when it opened in 1914. For a truly legendary experience, head to New Haven sometime in late November for “The Game,” still one of college football’s marquee events. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Buck Hardee Field at Legion Stadium 2149 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 Wilmington Sharks website Buck Hardee Field at Legion Stadium website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 1,200 Welcome to the Shark Tank Now in its 90th year, Buck Hardee Field at Legion Stadium has been home to the Coastal Plain League’s Wilmington Sharks for over one-third of that time; the wood-bat collegiate summer league was founded in 1997, and the Sharks have played here ever since. The venue is also home to a local high school baseball team, and sits next to a football stadium that similarly hosts high school games. The baseball facility holds 1200 fans across one main grandstand, a secondary grandstand, and a handful of suites that can be rented out by groups or by local businesses.   Food & Beverage   3 The concessions at Legion Stadium are a bit of a mixed bag – on one hand there is not much variety, for example there is no boxed nor packaged candy, and there are no diet sodas, only regular. The prices are also on the high side, in that the cheapest items start at $5 (hot dogs, bottled water, cookies, etc.); the only item cheaper than $5 is the fountain sodas, which are $4. But on the other hand, the beer is extremely cheap – 20 to 24 oz cans start at only $5, including the most popular choice, Landshark, for obvious reasons.  I would also recommend trying the Hoop Tea (hard iced tea in a rainbow-esque can) for $6; probably one of the best tasting alcohol drinks this writer has ever had. There is only one main stand at Legion Stadium, and this is the only place that sells food, including hot dogs, burgers, nachos, walking tacos, popcorn, peanuts, etc., as well as bottled water, Gatorade, and soda – the main stand does not sell alcohol. For that you will have to visit one of the satellite stands, most of which only sell alcohol; the lone except is the Italian ice stand next to the team gear store.   Atmosphere   3 The Sharks don’t necessarily pull in a lot of fans, but they do offer a myriad of seating options, and they have all the bells and whistles one might expect from a minor league baseball club, despite the fact this team might technically be one level below that. First up is the costumed shark mascot, who roams the stands taking photos with fans, while next up is “Shark Dog”, a golden retriever wearing a shark fin and eye black. In addition are the contests and games you have come to expect at sporting events like this, such as a putting contest, dizzy bat race, water balloon toss, etc. Also music to get the fans fired up, as well as a few marketing promos, such as the sound of glass breaking every time a ball is hit out of the park, brought to you by a local glass repair company. In terms of seating options, there is one main grandstand behind home plate, as well as a smaller satellite one down the third base line. The main stand has bucket-style chairbacks in the lower half and bleachers above, while the smaller grandstand is all bleachers. In addition, there are picnic tables down the first and third base line, as well as several sets of box/club seats on the first base side – each of these “suites” features high-top stools, and can seat ten to twelve fans. There are also a couple of tabletops attached to the brickwork right behind home plate, with chairs, which can accommodate a handful of fans; these are probably considered the best seats in the house.   Neighborhood   4 Wilmington is a great please to visit – the ballpark is more inland near the intercoastal waterway, but the beach is not far away, with attractions such as Fort Fisher and the North Carolina Aquarium. Much closer to Legion Stadium, however, is the Battleship North Carolina, one of the most popular attractions in the area. There is also a great concert venue nearby, Live Oak Bank Pavilion, if you want to try and catch a show while in town. And of course there are plenty of great restaurants nearby; check out Pilot House for seafood, Dough House for pizza, or Irish pub The Harp, which has trivia and karaoke. Whether you are in town for just the day, or for a whole weekend, those attractions, and many others in the area, will be plenty to keep you occupied before or after the baseball game.   Fans   3 The Sharks don’t bring a ton of fans, but you will see a lot of Sharks gear being worn, and the fans cheer (or razz the umpire) at all the appropriate moments. You will see fans all over the park utilizing all the different seating areas, and of course plenty of kids running to chase down foul balls.   Access   4 Getting in and out of a Sharks game is no trouble at all at Legion Stadium. There is free parking right next to the ballpark, and there is plenty of room to move around the concourse. Lines are also very short and move swiftly at all the concession stands. Pro tip – use the windows at the far side of the main concessions stand, the one facing away from the entrance, for faster service; a lot of fans don’t know there is a second set of windows on that side. The sole set of bathrooms seems to be behind the main grandstand; I didn’t see any other bathroom options, so if you are sitting in one of the other seating areas you likely will have to take a brief walk.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets start at $13 and go up to $17 – $13 is general admission and gets you into either the satellite grandstand or lets you use the aforementioned picnic tables, but you can probably sneak into the main stands with this ticket, since the ballpark isn’t usually full. Otherwise, $15 (reserved) gives you a bleacher seat in the top half of the main stands, while $17 (box) gets you a bucket-style seat in the lower half. Personally I like to move around and watch from different places, so I would choose the $15 seats just to give you that option, as the bleachers are perfectly comfortable, and the $17 seats are probably a little too close to the action, so you can’t see as well.   Extras   3 The team gear stand doesn’t have a lot of different sizes, and the prices are on the high side, but they do have a few options for those wanting a souvenir, for example $3 for a set of Sharks stickers or $10 for a souvenir baseball.  I thought “Shark Dog” was a nice touch, but I was sorely disappointed they did not play “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the 7th inning stretch on my last visit. On the plus side they do have two cornhole sets, so fans can enjoy tossing the bean bags.   Final Thoughts Watching the Sharks play at Legion Stadium is a solid choice for daytime, or evening, entertainment in Wilmington.  The venue is well done and offers a lot of vantage points to watch from, as well as includes all the accoutrements fans have come to expect from sports at this level. Wilmington is also a great place to visit, so I would encourage you to make at least a weekend of your visit.  Go, Sharks!

Photos by Matt Collins, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Hameline Field at Wagner College Stadium One Campus Road Staten Island, NY 10301 Wagner Seahawks website Hameline Field at Wagner College Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 3,300 Football With A View The Wagner College Seahawks football team plays their home games at Wagner College Stadium in Staten Island, New York. Wagner is a member of the Northeast Conference and competes at Division I FCS level. The NEC is a consortium of 10 small east coast colleges that also includes Quinnipiac and Sacred Heart in Connecticut, Bryant in Rhode Island, and Merrimack in Massachusetts to name a few. Wagner College was founded in 1883 and is affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Wagner is located on Staten Island atop Grymes Hill, which provides both sweeping vistas of Manhattan and Brooklyn, which are easily accessible for students and visitors alike. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stands at Wagner College Stadium are nothing spectacular, which can be expected at a small college facility. It isn’t even an established edifice like the stands at other colleges and professional stadiums. It is a tent and truck that were still being set up when Stadium Journey arrived a little over a half-hour before game time. The tent is equipped with tables that hold drinks and snacks and hot food is cooked in the truck. Student-workers are dispatched to both truck and tent duty. A hamburger costs $4.25, a cheeseburger costs $4.75 and a hot dog is $3.25. A veggie burger is offered for $5.50, a grilled chicken sandwich is $5 and cape cod chips cost $3. Numerous snacks are offered including pretzels and Doritos for $2.50, and M&M’s, Snickers, and Skittles for $1.50. There is no official soda brand at the Wagner concession stand but Coke and Sprite are offered for $3. Water and Powerade are also $3. No alcohol is sold at the stand. Both cash and credit cards are accepted. A recommended entree to try would be the cheeseburger, which is above average for stadium fare and cooked hot off the grill. Atmosphere 3 Wagner College Stadium has one main grandstand that extends the length of the field on only one side because the other side of the field is adjacent to Howard Avenue. Seats are mainly bleachers, with a limited amount of chair back seats that can be bought as part of the green and white season ticket packages. The area of the bleachers closest to the main entrance is reserved for the Wagner marching band and student section. Seating towards the middle is dominated by parents and alumni and the far end seating is typically where opposing fans and students sit. The press box is located atop the stands at the fifty-yard line. An area next to the press box is cordoned off for opposing coaches to call plays. The scoreboard at Wagner is located behind the end zone near the main gate. It is an excellent small college scoreboard featuring the quarter, score, time, timeouts, down/to go (3rd and 8 for example), and the yard line that the ball is on. Oddly enough there were two public address announcers (one for each half) at the game Stadium Journey attended so there is no way of telling which one is the regular one unless we went to another game there but both had clear voices and pronounced names correctly. No free Wi-Fi is available at the stadium. Music is played over the public address system both before the game and at halftime. Musical selections vary from AC/DC to Doja Cat and Jay-Z. In a nice touch that makes the college game unique compared to the pros, there is a marching band. The band plays the national anthem on the field before the game, the school song at halftime in a coordinated routine with the cheerleading squad, and songs like “Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” and the Dropkick Murphys’ “I’m Shipping up to Boston” from the stands throughout the game. The cheerleading squad leads cheers throughout the game and a separate dance team does a choreographed hip-hop routine at halftime. The team mascot, a Seahawk, tries to get the crowd hyped up but isn’t worshipped as much as other mascots are at games where more little kids attend. Neighborhood 3 Wagner College is located on Staten Island, the forgotten borough of New York City, often derided by residents of the city’s other boroughs as smelling like garbage and being populated by mafia members. Down the hill from the college is Stapleton, the run-down neighborhood immortalized in the music of the Wu-Tang Clan, who called it home growing up. However, the neighborhood adjacent to both Wagner and St John’s University’s Staten Island campus is leafy with picturesque views of Brooklyn and Manhattan. Wagner College Stadium is located across Howard Avenue from the Wagner campus, although crossing the avenue is perilous because New Yorkers think a red light is a suggestion and don’t stop even when a light is red. The must-see building on campus is the Main Hall, an imposing structure evocative of the campuses of Princeton and Yale or an English manor. The main allure to visiting a Wagner game is the proximity to Manhattan and Brooklyn, which are a ferry and bridge away, respectively. There are some hotels, restaurants, and attractions on Staten Island that are recommended for visitors in this article that are less expensive and crowded than those in other boroughs, especially Manhattan. Fans 3 A Wagner crowd is a lot less rowdy than other crowds in college football. Some of that may have to do with alcohol not being sold at the stadium, as alcohol and rowdiness go together like peanut butter and jelly. That doesn’t mean the crowd isn’t engaged, it just isn’t as bonkers as others in college sports. A packed contingent of student and parent fans alike cheer loudly when Seahawk players do anything well, and a surprisingly large opposing fan contingent also brings the noise to Grymes Hill. Unlike other stadiums, there is nothing prompting fans to cheer like a hype man or a call and response from the P.A. system urging fans to yell “charge.” The natural intensity and passion for football amongst New York fans make the need for hype gimmicks null and void. An example of the intensity of New Yorkers is that the scoreboard malfunctioned before the half and fans were livid, yelling profanity at the refs and the clock operator to change the clock as their lives depended on it. Alas, these are the same people that run through red lights and employ the middle finger constantly whilst driving so it makes sense that their feverish intensity carries over to football fandom. Access 4 Wagner College Stadium is easily accessible from any surrounding area. A traveler from Brooklyn, Queens, or Long Island can take the Belt Parkway and the Verrazano Narrows Bridge to the stadium, someone from Jersey can access Staten Island from the Bayonne or Goethals Bridge, or the Outerbridge Crossing, and Manhattanites (if they knew football existed) can take the Staten Island Ferry from Battery Park and a shuttle bus from the ferry stop to campus. Wagner’s campus is almost equidistant from all three major area airports: Newark, LaGuardia, and JFK. Parking costs $10 but the large lot is conveniently located right next to the stadium. If the lot fills up, there is even more parking on campus across Howard Avenue. Wagner has the unique distinction of still printing only hard copy tickets. Tickets can be ordered online but have to be picked up in person at the will call. In terms of the superiority of one gate over another, there is only one gate so therefore it is the top gate by default. Moving around isn’t a problem as people largely stay in their seats the entire game and the lines at the food truck/tent are never excessively long. The only restrooms are porta-potties that are shockingly clean and odor-free and there are numerous handicapped parking spaces and ramps that allow for easy access to seats. Return on Investment 3 In terms of transportation costs, the Staten Island Ferry is free, and traversing a bridge by car in NYC costs $16 in tolls, but the system can be gamed because the tolls only go one way. This reporter took the Bayonne Bridge southbound and the Goethals westbound to Jersey and didn’t pay a toll either time. Visitors from Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island have only one bridge option though (Verrazano), and will have to pay the $16 at least once. The recommended cheeseburger entree cost a mere $4.75, and with a drink and chips a whole meal still barely exceeds $10, a steal compared to another college, minor league, and professional stadiums in the area. Parking costs $10 but is conveniently located adjacent to the stadium and a program costs $10 (a bit overpriced honestly). A single game ticket costs $10 for an adult and $5 for a child. Folks with kids can save some money by buying a $20 Sammy’s Kids Club package, which covers one child ticket per home game. Buying five separate child tickets without the package would amount to $25, so $5 could be saved. A $65 white package and a $115 green package (named after the school colors) are more expensive than five single-game tickets but come with perks like free parking and team t-shirts and a reserved chair back in the stands. Extras 3 -Statue dedicated to Nicholas Lia, Wagner Class of 1966, who died in the Vietnam War -Exquisite view of Verrazano Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn from the top rows of the bleachers -Friendly workers at the snack stand and ticket booth Final Thoughts For any New York or New Jersey resident looking to catch some college football action on a fall Saturday or any New York City tourist looking for something fun to do, head to Wagner College Stadium on Staten Island for a Wagner Seahawks football game.

Rendering courtesy of UTRGV Athletics On Wednesday September 25th, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)  announced upgrades and enhancements to Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium, previously a soccer-only venue, in advance of the Vaqueros inaugural football season beginning in 2025. The stadium was named in honor of area philanthropists Robert and Janet Vackar, who donated $20 million to UTRGV Athletics. Construction at Vackar Stadium is already underway, with UTRGV lowering the field to improve sightlines, and expanding the existing field-level suites and patio areas. Once the field lowering is completed, new synthetic field turf will be installed, with the goal of making Vackar Stadium available for events year-round. With interest at a fever-pitch in advance of the Vaqueros impending football debut, 184 premium seats – including 19 loge boxes – are being added to the facility’s north end zone. Also, 2,000 additional bleacher seats will be added to the south end zone; these additions will bring the stadium’s capacity to nearly 12,000. Elevators and other accommodations are also being added to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. “It is with the support of the Vackars that these stadium enhancements are possible,” UTRGV Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque said in a news release. “Robert and Janet’s generosity is allowing us to greatly enhance the game day experience for our student-athletes and fans.” UTRGV acquired the stadium  from the city of Edinburg this past February. “We greatly appreciate the City of Edinburg and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation for facilitating the acquisition of this stadium,” Conque said. “It was their shared vision that made this a reality, and we are looking forward to helping to create a transformative impact on Edinburg and the entire Rio Grande Valley.” The Vaqueros are scheduled to kick off their first season of football in August 2025, as members of the Southland Conference – the team’s first game, at home, is scheduled for August 30th against the Sul Ross State Lobos. ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 DCU Center 50 Foster Street Worcester, MA 01608 Worcester Railers website DCU Center website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 14,800 Off The Rails The DCU Center was built in the early 1980s as an alternative venue to the aging Boston Garden. Many national touring acts had stopped including Boston on their tours due to the inadequate facilities at the Garden. Worcester, located 47 miles west of Boston, is the second largest city in New England and was considered a suitable location for the new arena. Since its opening in 1982, the arena and adjoining convention center have hosted numerous sporting events, concerts, trade shows, and conventions. After serving as home to American Hockey League teams for 20 years, Worcester found itself without hockey when San Jose moved their farm team west in 2015. Into the void stepped the ECHL, which granted the city of Worcester an expansion team that began play in 2017. That team, the Railers, has qualified for the playoffs once during their five seasons in the ECHL, losing in the first round in 2018. Food & Beverage 4 Not all of the DCU Center’s concession stands are open for Railers games, but there are enough points of sale open to ensure short lines that move quickly. The menu does not stray far from standard arena fare, with hot dogs, sausage and pepper sandwiches, burgers, and chicken tenders comprising the bulk of the menu. Portable stands create some variety, offering pizza slices (Slice Slice Baby), meatball subs (Cousin Sal’s), and nachos (Nacho Mama’s). Several stands dedicated purely to snacks and ice cream are popular destinations for the younger fans in attendance. Pepsi products are featured at the DCU Center. Fans looking for an adult beverage will find a good selection of national brands. A variety of local craft beers, including several from Wormtown Brewery, are sold at the Craft Beer Corner. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at a Worcester Railers game will be very familiar to veteran minor league hockey fans. The expanded lobby at the DCU Center is put to good use, with an inflatable shooting cage and team store. Trax, the Railers mascot, will often be found here posing for pictures with fans. During the game, the team puts on a good show, with contests for fans during play stoppages, hype videos on the scoreboard, and t-shirt tosses. The very active Railers booster club sponsors 50/50 and other raffles every game, as well as road trips for fans. During intermissions, local youth teams and skate groups take the ice. The Bud Light Lounge and Coors Light Chill Zone are full-service bars located on opposite ends of the rink. Both bars overlook the ice and are open throughout the game to all fans. Neighborhood 4 Many visitors may not know this, but Worcester is the second-largest city in all of New England. The DCU Center is located right downtown in the Central Business District. While Worcester has historically been viewed in a less-than-positive light, it is a city on the rise, with many things to do and see. While not considered a college town, there are eight colleges within Worcester city limits. While Worcester as a whole has many fine options for dining, options are a bit slimmer near the DCU Center. Local chains 99 Restaurant and Uno’s Pizzeria draw the largest crowds around game time. The Hilton Garden Inn and Holiday Inn Express are located nearby. Many Railer fans will head to Off the Rails, right behind the DCU Center, for some live music or postgaming. Fans willing to branch out and explore the city of Worcester will be rewarded with many great options. Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row,” aka Shrewsbury Street, boasts over 40 restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual joints, brew pubs to diners, and everything in between. With many shops also located on this drag, it’s a great place for a stroll and some window shopping should the weather cooperate. Worcester made a big splash in the national sports scene with the construction of Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox, the top farm time of the nearby Boston Red Sox. The ballpark, located about a mile from the DCU Center, is the anchor of the up-and-coming Canal District. Fans looking for dining options will find many choices in that area. College sports fans will be pleased to know that the Holy Cross Crusaders play football nearby at Fitton Field along with basketball and hockey at the Hart Center. Fans 3 Attendance at Railers games has remained fairly steady over the team’s existence, averaging around 4,000 fans per game. This figure puts the team right in the middle of the ECHL rankings. As is the case for most minor league teams, a Railers crowd consists of a base of hardcore hockey fans (there are a lot of them in Central Massachusetts), supplemented by families and groups. The presence of many younger fans gives the DCU Center an energetic vibe. Access 4 Before you arrive at the DCU Center, plan. The venue has a very restrictive bag policy. Bags are not allowed into the arena. Nothing larger than a wristlet is allowed. Check the bag policy here. The DCU Center is located in the Central Business District of the city of Worcester. Located just two blocks from Interstate 290, the arena is easily accessible via exit 20. Parking is available in several surface lots in the area, as well as a parking garage across the street from the main entrance. There is plenty of on-street parking in the area for those who want to search for it. Most fans will enter the DCU Center via the arena’s main entrance on the corner of Foster Street and Major Taylor Boulevard. The newly redesigned entry plaza features a statue of longtime Worcester resident and Boston Celtics legend Bob Cousy, which was dedicated in June of 2021. Even though the concourse of the DCU Center is quite narrow, getting around is rarely an issue thanks to the small crowds present on most nights. Lines at the restrooms and concession stands are not a problem, either. Even when all stands are not open, you will not have to wait to purchase snacks. The seating bowl features folding stadium chairs with cupholders. The lower bowl features a very gentle slope, which makes some viewpoints less than ideal for hockey. Most of the upper deck is curtained off to make the venue seem less empty. Fans looking for some Railers gear will find two merchandise stands on the concourse. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Railers games start at $15 for upper-level end zone seats, with prices increasing to $35 for lower-level seats at center ice. Purchasing tickets on game day increases all ticket prices by an additional three dollars. The team offers several ticket packages that offer group discounts and added value with food vouchers. Check the Railers website ticket center for more details. Parking is plentiful around the DCU Center, with several lots and garages located within walking distance of the facility. The Mercantile Garage right across the street from the DCU Center charges $12 on game nights. There is on-street parking available for fans who wish to search for it. Just be careful when city meters are in operation. Concessions prices are a bit on the high side, but prices are comparable to other arenas in the area. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the statue of longtime Worcester native and Holy Cross alumni Bob Cousy, located in the DCU Center’s entry plaza. Displays of Railers founding season ticket holders and artists who have performed at the DCU Center can be found on the concourse. Final Thoughts The DCU Center is a solid if unspectacular place to catch some quality minor league hockey. Recent years have seen the city of Worcester raise its profile in the sporting world by courting the Pawtucket Red Sox to the city. When the American Hockey League left town, the ECHL wasted no time jumping into this thriving market. ---- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Montgomery Blair Stadium 51 University Blvd East Silver Spring, MD 20901 Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts website Montgomery Blair Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 710 Home of the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts Montgomery Blair Stadium is located in Silver Spring, Maryland on the grounds of Montgomery Blair High School. During the school year, it is home to the school’s baseball team, while over the summer, it plays host to the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts of the Cal Ripken Collegiate Baseball League. The Ripken League is a collegiate summer wood bat league in the Washington, D.C. area containing eight teams across the DC Metro area. Although the field itself has existed for many years as the home to MBHS baseball, until 2005 it was just that – a field, not a stadium. In 2002, the Thunderbolts came to town and opted to expand the field into a proper stadium with a capacity of around 700 seats. At the time, the team competed in the Clark Griffith Collegiate Baseball League, but they opted to move to the Ripken League in 2005 and the Griffith League folded shortly thereafter. The name honors both the city of Silver Spring, where the team is located, and the nearby city of Takoma Park. Several former T-Bolts have gone on to play professionally, including major league pitchers Jonathan Papelbon and Brett Cecil. Food & Beverage 3 Montgomery Blair Stadium has a decent range of concession items. Hot dogs, pizza slices, hamburgers, and cheeseburgers are the main meal options, with none of them costing more than $4. Nachos are also available for $3. There is a wide range of snack options as well, ranging from traditional treats like ice cream, peanuts, and popcorn to more unusual ones like honey buns, Welch's fruit snacks, and Pop-Tarts. None of the snacks are more than $2 and most of them are a dollar or less. Soda cans, bottled water, and Gatorade are available to drink. The stand takes credit cards as well as cash. Given the stadium is located on the grounds of a high school, alcohol is obviously not sold here. Although outside food and beverages are allowed in the stadium, alcohol is not. Attempting to bring in alcohol not only violates stadium policy but state law and could potentially result in criminal charges according to the announcements on the PA system before the game. Atmosphere 3 Although Montgomery Blair Stadium is not large by any means, it is still a nice place to watch the game. All seats are chair backs – rare at this level – divided into three stands, although one is blocked off. One is located directly behind home plate and is in the shade of the press box before the sun goes down. The other two are between the dugouts and home plate. There is not a bad seat in this stadium. A scoreboard is located down the left field line, but it only shows the most basic information. The Thunderbolts do a better job at promoting an atmosphere than most teams in this league. There are several between inning contests for the kids and trivia questions for the adults to keep everyone engaged. There is also a raffle where fans can win various prizes from the team and sponsors. This really makes you wonder why the team calls it that. Music is played over the PA, but the sound system is not the best and seems to alternate between being way too loud and being way too quiet. Neighborhood 4 Silver Spring is a suburban neighborhood typical of what you would find just outside our nation’s capital. The stadium itself is located near the Four Corners intersection, where Route 29 meets University Boulevard. A number of restaurants are located at that junction, including The 4 Corners Pub and a number of chain restaurants, but your best bet is to take the short drive into downtown Silver Spring. This is where most of the action is located in this town, including several bars and restaurants ranging from Italian to Ethiopian to Cuban to, of course, American. You are also about a 30-minute Metro ride away from downtown Washington, D.C. where you can tour the many monuments, memorials, and museums dedicated to our country’s history. All of the government-run attractions are free, though some of the private ones charge for admission. Just keep in mind that if you want to tour the Capitol or White House, you will need to book in advance. Fans 3 The T-Bolts will draw a little over a hundred fans per game, which sadly is above average for this league. With so much else going on in this area, fans are just not that into summer collegiate ball, and may not even realize this league exists. However, the fans who do show up are knowledgeable about the team and the game, cheer on their T-Bolts, and stay until the end. Some of them seem to be friends and families of the players, but there are also local individuals and families who just want to attend a baseball game. Since the Ripken League footprint is so small, there will often be fans of the other team there as well. Access 4 Montgomery Blair Stadium is located on University Boulevard (State Route 193), just east of the junction with Route 29. There is ample parking in the high school’s main lot, though you may not be able to park right next to the stadium. The front gate is located in between the school’s softball stadium and its football stadium. Once inside, you can purchase your ticket from a table in a little vestibule area, then head in. You should have no trouble getting around once inside. Restrooms are located in the football stadium adjacent to the baseball stadium. They are more than big enough to handle the crowds at T-Bolts games considering they were designed to handle much larger football crowds. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are $6 for adults and $2 for children under 18. Children under the age of five and all youth in baseball and softball uniforms get in free. Concessions are affordable and parking is free. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, but you will have to pay a small fee to do so on top of the ticket price. It is easier to just buy at the gate, as the games never sell out. A visit to a Thunderbolts game certainly won’t break the bank, and they put on enough of a show in a nice enough stadium to make it a worthwhile trip. . Extras 3 There are programs and roster cards available at the entrance. Although half of the program consists of advertising, the team has to make money somehow and there is still some good information on the team and its players. Most of the ads are for local businesses as well, which can provide some ideas for places to check out after the game. There are about 40 college flags located in an area between the entrance and the home plate stand, representing some of the schools represented by current or former T-Bolts players. The displays are really quite impressive. One final star for a cart selling Thunderbolts merchandise that is located near the concession stand. The prices aren’t bad, either. Final Thoughts If you ask sports fans to name a baseball team in this area, they will almost certainly mention the Washington Nationals. But the Nats are not the only baseball team to play their home games in the capital area. Unfortunately, most baseball fans don’t realize the Ripken League exists, or that it has teams in almost every part of the D.C. area. Most people in Silver Spring, Takoma, and the rest of Montgomery County don’t realize this fabulous opportunity to see baseball at an affordable price exists right in their backyard. Although the quality of play isn't as good as you would get at a major or even minor league ballpark, the affordability can't be beat.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Historic Riggs Field at Dr. I. M. Ibrahim Stadium 115 Alpha Beta Circle Clemson, SC 29634 Clemson Tigers website Historic Riggs Field at Dr. I. M. Ibrahim Stadium website Year Opened: 1980 Capacity: 6,500 Historic Riggs Field at Dr. I. M. Ibrahim Stadium – Clemson Tigers Fall in Clemson, South Carolina, typically brings thoughts of busses circlin g Memorial Stadium , Howard’s Rock, and the blast of the Clemson cannon sending the football team down and running down “The Hill.” What might fly under the radar, however, is Clemson men’s soccer program, which has experienced more national success than any other athletic program at Clemson, which most instantly associate with the school’s successes on the gridiron. Serving as Clemson’s football field as far back as 1915 and baseball field from 1916 to 1969, Riggs Field was named in honor of their first football coach, Walter Riggs, who also served a stint as the school’s president from 1911 to 1924. During Riggs’s tenure, he hired John Heisman as the school’s football coach. Soccer was first sponsored as a varsity sport at Clemson in 1932 but was discontinued in 1939. Soccer would return in 1967 under the direction of Dr. I. M. Ibrahim, who was not just the soccer coach but also a professor of chemistry at Clemson – the soccer stadium is now named after him. In their history, the Tigers have claimed 17 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) soccer titles while being crowned soccer National Champions four times as of 2024 (1984, 1987, 2021, and 2023).   Food & Beverage   2 Concessions can be found built into the exterior of the Duckworth Family Tennis Facility at the western end of Riggs Field – offerings are rather straightforward, with hot dogs, nachos, and barbecue sandwiches as the featured items. Beverages come from the Pepsi line of soft drinks, but one of the more intriguing items on the menu is the Clemson orange slushies.   Atmosphere   4 Riggs Field sits down in a natural bowl, which is created by the surrounding hilly terrain. This should not come as much of a shock, as the Clemson campus is also extremely hilly. The stadium is made up of two sets of separated bleachers on either side of the pitch, both faced in brick. The far side visitor seating area runs roughly from penalty area to penalty area and has limited backed seating. In contrast, the home side seating runs the entire length of the field and has a full section of aluminum seat backs at midfield. Given the open nature of the stadium, crowds often gather along the fence outside the pitch due to its proximity to the exterior sidewalk along Old Greenville Highway at the northern edge of the stadium. This setup leaves very little to obstruct the view and goes a long way in enhancing the overall campus and neighborhood feel, connecting the community to the game. There are also no bad seats at Riggs Field, and the supporters’ section, positioned behind the visiting team’s bench, often spills over behind the opposing goalkeeper, contributing significantly to Clemson’s home-field advantage.   Neighborhood   5 Riggs Field is just a short walk from College Avenue, Clemson’s hub of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Less than a mile away is the legendary Esso Club, a former gas station turned Clemson tradition. For Friday night soccer matches, pairing a visit with a Saturday football ga me at Memorial Stadium is a perfect weekend experience. Despite Clemson’s hilly landscape, there are some scenic walks around campus – historic Woodland Cemetery, and the Clemson Dike are both highly popular locations for students, locals, and visitors to get out and be one with the outdoors.   Fans   4 Clemson soccer’s successes have long drawn a great deal of support from students, alumni, and the local soccer community, and the fan base has done a good job showing their appreciation for that success with a raucous collegiate soccer atmosphere. The ever-present student support section, Central Spirit, does a good job creating an interactive soccer atmosphere – throughout the match, they chant, beat base and snare drums, and run through a series of songs. It is not uncommon for matches against other premier programs and rivals to draw more than 6,000 fans, although midweek matches and those against smaller programs do not bring in nearly the same crowds.   Access   4 Clemson is roughly a 20-minute drive from I-85, with multiple exits leading into town. The most direct route is through Pendleton, South Carolina, which leads to the eastern side of campus. The E-5 lot , adjacent to Fike Recreation Center, offers convenient parking, while street parking near Memorial Stadium is al so an option, just a short walk from the soccer field and frequently plentiful. Riggs Field has four entry points, making access easy. The main entrance, shared with the Duckworth Family Tennis Pavilion, frequently offers promotional items for fans. A walkway also encircles the field, though views are obstructed by the stands except at the ends of the pitch.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets are reasonably priced at $10 for general admission and $15 for reserved seating, a fair deal considering Clemson’s status as a premier collegiate soccer program. Free parking close to the stadium is also a bonus. Though concession prices are slightly above average, they are not as unreasonable as sports stadium fare goes.   Extras   4 Plaques at the entrance along Old Greenville Highway honor Walter Riggs for his contributions to both Clemson athletics and the university. Clemson takes great pride in its soccer history, with the underside of the stands recognizing team and individual accomplishments, including National Championship teams, national scoring leaders, and Hermann Trophy winners awarded to college soccer’s top players. Inside the playing area, flags commemorate Clemson’s four National Championship titles, and placards along the fencing highlight the successes of both the men’s and women’s programs, including their ACC titles and NCAA Tournament achievements. The Clemson Tiger mascot is an active participant in the game experience, greeting fans, interacting with the student section, and taking part in halftime contests. Also, could you even have a Clemson sporting event without its rich traditions? The popular fight song, “Tiger Ra,” is played just before the start of the soccer match, as well as after every Clemson goal. Clemson also does a good job paying tribute to the university, as following the match with the Alma Mater Salute has become customary across Clemson athletics.   Final Thoughts Clemson soccer has been one of the elite programs in the nation for years, and their game experience is just as special. The product on the pitch will always be of high quality, and the surrounding campus and neighborhood atmosphere perfectly complement the experience.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Jordan Field 65 North Harvard St. Boston, MA 02134 Harvard Crimson men's lacrosse website Jordan Field website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 2,500 Lax in the Shadow of the Stadium   Jordan Field opened in 2010 as Soldiers Field Soccer Stadium. It was renamed for Gerald Jordan, class of 1961 alumnus and graduate of Harvard Business School in honor of a donation to renovate the field in 2015. Mr. Jordan, who played football at Harvard during his undergraduate days, founded the Gerald R. Jordan Jr. Foundation, which provides funding for Revere residents who attend Harvard. Today Jordan Field is home to Harvard’s men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams.   Harvard fielded its first lacrosse team in 1878, winning the first intercollegiate lacrosse title in 1881. The Crimson won 13 national championships in the pre-tournament era.   In the NCAA tournament era (since 1971), Havard has won four Ivy League championships, most recently in 2014. The Crimson have appeared in seven NCAA tournaments, most recently in 2022. They have reached the quarterfinals on three occasions.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a single food truck tucked in behind the bleachers to serve hungry Crimson fans looking for a bite to eat during the game. Chicken fingers and french fries are served here, along with a selection of snacks and drinks.     Coca-Cola products are featured at Jordan Field. A selection of adult beverages are sold at this stand as well, including Sam Adams, Corona and Coors Light.   Atmosphere 2   This may be due to the cold weather during Stadium Journey’s visit, but the game day atmosphere at Jordan Field was a bit less that what might be expected considering the big crowd present for this game and the close result on the field.   Much of the noise created on this day came from the stands, as lacrosse fans don’t usually need much encouragement to get into the action. The physical limitations of Jordan Field ensure that there’s not a whole lot going on to distract your attention from the field. There’s no room for a lot of extras here. A simple scoreboard in the south end zone provides score and time, music plays over a decent sound system, and the PA announcer provides game information and sponsor reads without being too over the top.   The game is the focus here at Harvard. That’s not a bad thing by any means, it’s just a little less than the norm these days. Neighborhood 4   Jordan Field is located on the school’s athletic complex alongside its other sporting facilities, including Harvard Stadium , Lavietes Pavilion , O’Donnell Field and Bright-Landry Hockey Center . The complex is not located in Cambridge on the Harvard campus proper, but on the other side of the Charles River in neighboring Allston, within the Boston city limits.   While there is little in the way of attractions on the Allston side of the Charles, Harvard Yard is less than a mile away across the Anderson Memorial Bridge and up John F. Kennedy Street. Harvard Square, lined with shops and restaurants, is right here, too. This is hardly the bohemian center that it was in the days of yore, but there is no shortage of dining choices in the area. Stadium Journey recommends trying a burger and a shake at Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage.   The Harvard campus is one of Boston’s top attractions in its own right. Take a walking tour of the campus if you are so inclined, and take a picture in front of the statue of John Harvard, as thousands of others have done. Remember to rub his shiny shoe, it is rumored to bring good luck.   If you’re visiting Harvard from out of town and would rather explore the city of Boston, downtown is just a few miles away. Visitors looking to enjoy the working class charm of Allston and Brighton will find no shortage of bars and restaurants a short drive from the arena.    Fans 4   Harvard draws good attendance numbers for lacrosse, especially when you consider that they play in the northeast, where the weather can be really bad during the first couple of months of the season. The Crimson annually rank in the top 20 nationally in terms of attendance. A look through recent box scores show crowds of over 3,000 to be a regular occurrence here at Harvard.   Stadium Journey visited Jordan Field on a cold and windy afternoon in early March with a wind chill of 25 degrees. Still, a crowd of close to 2,500 showed up to watch the Crimson host Michigan.   Lacrosse fans are a different breed, and those at Harvard fit the mold well. They are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and vocal. Some fans are not shy about tailgating before the game, nor are they adverse to continuing the party once the game starts. No need to worry, lax fans are also very friendly. You can feel safe at Jordan Field, even if you’re sporting the opposing colors.   Access 3   While Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, Jordan Field is located across the Charles River, in the Allston section of Boston. Also located here are most of Harvard’s other athletic facilities.   Even on its best days, the city of Boston is a difficult city to drive in. The best way to get to the Jordan Field is to take Storrow Drive to the Soldier’s Field Athletic Complex. If you must drive to a Harvard lacrosse game, bring along someone who knows the crooked streets of Boston well. Parking is located throughout the athletic complex, with small lots tucked into every available space in between the numerous facilities here.   The recommended method of travel to Harvard is the subway, or “T”, as it is called locally. The Harvard Station MBTA stop is a 10-minute walk from Jordan Field. Several bus routes also stop at Harvard Station. The 66 and 86 busses stop directly in front of the athletic complex. For more information, fares and schedules check out the MBTA website .   Jordan Field runs from southwest to northeast. Fans enter Jordan Field via an entrance on the eastern side of the facility. A paved walkway leads to the metal bleachers that run along the opposite side of the field. The bleachers sit atop a large berm, which raises them a good sx feet above the field. There is a walkway along the front edge of the bleachers, so it is advised that you avoid the first couple of rows if possible. There are berms on three sides of the field for fans who wish to stand or sit and take in the action.   There are no permanent rest room facilities at Jordan Field. There is a row of port-a-johns behind the bleachers for fans to use during the game. With only one concession point of sale, time your trips for a snack wisely.   Return on Investment 2   Tickets to Crimson lacrosse games are sold as general admission seats for twenty dollars. Parking in the lots at the Soldiers Field Athletic Complex will cost you another ten dollars. Concession prices are also a bit higher than you might expect at this level. If comparing the cost of a Harvard lacrosse game to other Division One lacrosse facilities in New England, a Crimson game is much more expensive. Extras 1   The years the Crimson have won the Ivy League title and qualified for the NCAA tournament are listed on the wind screens behind the goals.   Final Thoughts   A Harvard lacrosse game at Jordan Field is just what you’d expect at a small Ivy League facility; a simple, no frills presentation where the game is the focus.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Segra Field 42095 Loudoun United Dr Leesburg, VA 20175 Loudoun United website Segra Field website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 5,000 Getting Loud at Segra Field Loudoun United are a member of the USL Championship that joined the league in 2019. Although top-division soccer in the United States has enjoyed great stability over the last two-plus decades with the success of Major League Soccer, lower-division soccer has not. This means that the USL has changed formats several times over the years. Currently, the USL-C is the second division of American soccer after MLS. Loudoun United is owned by nearby MLS club D.C. United , and most of the players on Loudoun are affiliated with the parent club in some way. Some are on contracts that allow them to play in both leagues, while others are members of the club’s Youth Academy. Before 2019, DCU had an affiliation with the Richmond Kickers , but as the Kickers were independently owned, United was somewhat more limited in what it could do. The Kickers, now unaffiliated with any MLS side, have moved down to USL League One, which rather confusingly is the third division of American soccer. Loudoun United plays their home games at Segra Field in Leesburg, located in north-central Loudoun County, which lends its name to the club. The county and team name is pronounced like “LOUD in,” not “low down” as some people will claim to mess with visitors. The stadium is part of Phillip A. Bolen Park, a county park. Since opening in 2019, Segra Field has undergone additional construction to include the addition of restrooms and improvements to the locker rooms. Food & Beverage 4 Segra Field has a number of concessions options from local vendors. Paisano’s Pizza sells their pizza on the concourse, as does a local barbecue place which sells various sandwiches and other options. Kona Ice also sells their products out of a truck behind one of the goals. Soft drinks and beer are available throughout the stadium. Prices can vary depending on the stand but are about what you would expect. The quality of the food is quite high here and not just your typical stadium food. Atmosphere 3 Segra Field is a small stadium, which means there is not a bad seat in the house. There are chair backs along both sidelines, bleachers behind one of the goals, and suites behind the other. All seats are reserved. There is a small scoreboard in the corner of the field which shows only the most basic information. The club does a decent job at contributing to the atmosphere, by playing music after goals and during pregame introductions to pump the crowd up, but with no breaks in the action except halftime, you won’t find as much extra entertainment as you would in another sport. Additionally, the sound system is so poor you will often have trouble hearing this even when they do play it. In theory there is a Supporters Group called the Stampede in the bleachers, who would help with the atmosphere if they were actually there, but they weren’t when we went. Neighborhood 2 Segra Field is located in the middle of a county park, and there are really no restaurants or things to do in the immediate vicinity, nor is there anyplace to stay, unless you count the county jail. Your best bet is to head a few miles into downtown Leesburg, where there are plenty of places to eat, visit, and stay. This can be about a ten-minute drive, but it’s really your only option. The Leesburg Public House and Tarbender’s Lounge are popular places to grab a drink and a bite to eat. Those looking for something other than a bar may want to check out Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers or the Leesburg Diner, although the latter is only open for breakfast and lunch. There are many good options in Leesburg, but the fact that all of them are so far from the stadium really brings this rating down. Fans 2 Loudoun United averages only about 1,000 fans per game in a 5,000 seat stadium. This is not a good look for the team. Theoretically the Supporters should help improve that, but they were not even there when we went. In fact, much of the energy came from a small contingent of visiting fans that almost made this feel like a Loudoun away game despite being only a small fraction of those in attendance. LUFC tries to do some tie-ins with parent club D.C. United such as offering free tickets to their season ticket holders and doing joint promotions, but it doesn’t seem to be working. Access 2 Unfortunately, Segra Field is difficult to access and difficult to get around. Fans will most likely find themselves taking Exit 3 off the Dulles Greenway (State Route 267) and then proceeding a few miles to the stadium. Part of the trip involves narrow roads, which are unlit and very dark at night, and there is even a one-lane bridge you have to cross. Once you’re in Bolen Park, you will then have to drive a bit more to get to the stadium, and while there are some signs to parking, they don’t always take you to the best, or the closest, lot. Wherever you park, it will cost you $5, and credit cards are accepted. Keep in mind the Greenway and the Dulles Toll Road (as Route 267 is known east of Dulles Airport) both charge tolls, and you can expect to pay around $10 to get here from Washington, D.C. or other locations inside the Beltway. If you’re coming from closer to Leesburg, the toll will be less. Once you are in the stadium, it does not get much better. The concourse is basically just asphalt with temporary lighting, and to get to your seat, you need to walk up all the way to the top of the section and then back down to your seat. This does not seem very efficient. Restrooms were finally installed this 2021 season, two years after the stadium opened. They are located in trailers and are of a sufficient size for the small crowd, but are rather cramped. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $20 for bleacher seats and chair backs in the corners and no non-premium seat is more than $30. If you want a suite or one of the VIP seats at midfield you will have to pay quite a bit more, however. Keep in mind the VIP midfield seats are only the first three rows so you can get a good ticket here at an affordable price. Concessions are affordable and of good quality so a visit to Segra Field can be a good deal for soccer fans. Extras 1 There is a team shop by the entrance where fans can buy Loudoun United gear. Final Thoughts Although a visit to Segra Field may not be the same as a visit to a D.C. United game at Audi Field, it is still a chance to see professional soccer in the D.C. area. Many of these players will likely go on to play for D.C. United one day, so it is a chance to see the club’s top prospects while they are young. In the two years since they were founded, Loudoun United has made multiple improvements to the stadium experience, and we hope that continues going forward.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Pechanga Arena 3500 Sports Arena Blvd San Diego, CA 92110 San Diego Strike Force website Pechanga Arena website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 12,000 South Cali Football Pechanga Arena opened in 1966 and holds 12,000 fans for indoor football games. The arena is home to the San Diego Strike Force of the Indoor Football League (IFL), as well as the San Diego Gulls minor league hockey team, plus indoor soccer and the San Diego Seals lacrosse team. The facility looks modern enough on the inside, but seems a little dated based on its exterior. Food & Beverage 3 Pechanga Arena only has 3 concession stands open during San Diego Strike Force games – there are many more concession stands inside, which may be open during other events at the venue, but they are not open during indoor football. The first concessions stand is Nicolosi’s, an Italian restaurant which offers meatball subs, mac n cheese, or giant meatballs, all of which cost $13.50, as well as a few other traditional items such as nachos, hot dogs, pretzels, churros, candy, and popcorn. However, Nicolosi’s actually has more items on its beverage menu than on its food menu, including margaritas, Mai tais, mules, draft beer, wine, bottled water, coffee, energy drinks, iced tea, soda, and Powerade. The second concessions stand inside Pechanga Arena is called Pizza Port, and it offers 4 types of pizza (cheese, pepperoni, jalapeno pepperoni, and BBQ chicken), packaged candy, and most of the same beverage choices offered by Nicolosi’s, while the third stand is more of a full bar with many draft beer choices, as well as a limited number of wine and mixed drink choices. Atmosphere 2 There is not much in Pechanga Arena during San Diego Strike Force games except the football itself – there is no dance team, no mascot, and the field itself looks a little worn; it is obvious that the turf itself was a hand-me-down from a prior incarnation of indoor football. On the plus side, all the seats are chairbacks and there is a 4-sided videoboard hung above midfield so it is easy to see replays, and they play lots of fun music throughout the game to try and keep fans engaged. There are also the typical fan contests, such as having 2 father-and-son pairs race each other back and forth across the field carrying a pizza box, and there is also a team gear stand on site. Neighborhood 4 Pechanga Arena is located near Old Town San Diego – there is actually a sizeable antique mall across the street which is fun to walk around, and the Mormon Battalion Historic Site is less than 5 minutes away. The Mormon Battalion was a group of LDS soldiers from the Mexican-American War, who didn’t end up fighting in any actual battles, but did build some wagon trails during their service which helped settlers move west, most notably a trail from Santa Fe to San Diego (hence the location of the historic site), which eventually became the route the railroad went through. SeaWorld San Diego is also across the river from Pechanga Arena, less than 5 minutes away. Fans 2 There are very few fans at San Diego Strike Force games, although admittedly the most recent game I attended was on a Sunday afternoon, so that probably contributed to the smaller numbers. There are a few diehards in the front rows who are really into the game, and the rest of the fans cheer at all the right moments, and seem to enjoy the game and the fun music being played, but the arena does seem very empty, especially given that the upper level is not curtained off like it is at many similarly-sized venues. Access 3 Getting to Pechanga Arena is easy enough given its proximity to SeaWorld and Old Town , but getting into the venue is a little frustrating – there are four entrances into the stadium, but only the entrance on the North side is open for San Diego Strike Force games, and there is no signage directing fans to that entrance. There are also no signs around most of the building identifying it as Pechanga Arena, so you can easily drive right by it and not realize what it is. There are also lots of barrier poles scattered around the parking lot, which doesn’t seem necessary given how empty the parking lot seems to be; on the plus side fans do get to park for free. The most frustrating part of attending a Strike Force game, however, is buying your game ticket – you have to buy tickets using the AXS ticketing app instead of Ticketmaster, which is nice because it saves you a little money in fees, but the arena doesn’t sell tickets online on the day of, meaning you have to walk up to the ticket office, pay for your ticket, and then download it using the app. There are no paper tickets like you can buy at other venues on the day of, and it also doesn’t make sense to cut off online sales if fans are required to use the app regardless. Return on Investment 3 If you enjoy football, attending a game at Pechanga Arena is a decent experience – just don’t expect a lot of extras. The overall cost is fairly reasonable, and probably lower than similar IFL venues; while concessions are a little on the high side, tickets start at only $13, and you can park for free. Extras 2 Pechanga Arena has an interactive display inside highlighting all the teams that play here. The Stella Artois Lounge (basement level) is also open to all fans – this full bar with plush seating is a nice place to hang out during the game, and there are a couple of TVs inside so that you can keep track of the action on the field.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Knapp Center 2601 Forest Ave Des Moines, IA 50311 Drake Bulldogs men's basketball website Knapp Center website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 7,152 There's a Knapp For That The Knapp Center sits on the grounds of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. The arena opened on December 1, 1992 at a cost of $12.5 million and was named after William Knapp, a member of the Drake Board of Trustees, who played an integral part in getting financing for the arena. The Knapp Center plays host to Drake Bulldogs men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball. The men play in the Missouri Valley Conference, making a natural rivalry with fellow MVC and in-state school, Northern Iowa. For a small school (about 5,000 students), Drake has had some basketball success, boasting a trip to the Final Four in 1969, followed by trips to the Elite Eight in 1970 and 1971. Drake last appeared in the NCAA tournament in 2008. The arena has undergone upgrades in the last few years. A new LED scorer’s table and video board was installed along with better lighting, new graphics on the walls, and a new replay system. The arena is currently in the middle of a two-phase renovation. Recently completed, Knapp rounded off seating in the lower seating bowl. This made for a more aesthetic look as well as created a better atmosphere. Loge boxes and corner club seating were also added. Additionally, a new hospitality space was added for supporters of the team. For the next phase, plans call for a new video ring display, a new sound system, and improvements to upper-level seating. Food & Beverage 3 The Knapp Center doesn’t offer the most elaborate choices but they have the basics covered and most of the prices are reasonable. Pizza is available along with hot dogs and sausage sandwiches, wraps, pulled pork, chicken tenders, and burgers. Popcorn, nachos, cotton candy, and various types of candy are also on the menu. Combos with a drink give you the most bang for your buck. Coke products are the drink of choice. If you go with the souvenir cup, refills are $2. A fairly new addition to the drink menu is beer and other alcohol. Bud, Bud Light, Miller Lite, Busch Light and a few others are available, along with wine and mixed drinks. There are two locations to purchase alcohol. Both are downstairs from the main concourse; one in the southeast and one in the northwest corner of the arena. Atmosphere 4 The inside of the arena is bathed in Drake colors, blue and white. Looking around the arena, banners are displayed for the various players and accomplishments of the team. The biggest and most prominently displayed among them is the banner representing the appearance in the 1969 Final Four. The lower seating bowl are all chair back seats, with the upper seating bowl (mostly general admission) being bleacher seats. The band adds a lot to the atmosphere and overall enjoyment of the game. The smaller venue adds to the atmosphere in this instance as the seats are right on top of the court. Neighborhood 4 The Drake neighborhood is undergoing a rejuvenation and there are plenty of great places to go before or after a game. Lucky Horse Beer and Burgers is a couple blocks south of the arena and a very short walk. Lucky Horse serves up quality bar food and lots of drink options. Across the street from the Lucky Horse is Dough Co Pizza. Dough Co offers both gluten free and vegan crust, if desired, and if you are with a hungry bunch, they offer a massive 26 inch pizza. At the Drake Diner, hometown cooking/comfort food is the specialty and everything on the menu is tasty. Drake Diner also offers up decent sized portions so you won’t be left hungry if eating here before the game. For day games, I highly suggest hitting Waveland Café prior to game time. The café is about 2 miles from the arena. Waveland serves up some of the best breakfast in Des Moines. It’s open until 2 PM daily and can be packed, so give yourself a little extra time…it’s worth it. If you are just looking for a drink, head to Peggy’s Tavern, just west of Knapp Center. Peggy’s is a Drake staple and hugely popular amongst the locals. In town for a day or two? Just south of campus is newly opened Home2 Suites (a Hilton hotel). Downtown Des Moines is about a five minute drive East of the Drake Campus and has every food imaginable and plenty of other places to stay. Fans 4 Fans at the Knapp Center, and Iowa in general, are a knowledgeable bunch. The stands aren’t always packed here, but the fans that show up are into the game from tipoff. The student section is generally overflowing with students and they do their best to give grief to the opposing team whenever possible. Access 3 On a day when the arena is packed, parking can be an issue. There aren’t many large parking complexes in the area. If you are early and lucky there may be a few random free spots along the side streets in the area. However, the majority of the time, there are lots which will run $10. On the good side, they are close to the arena, resulting in a short walk. Inside the Knapp Center, the concourse is plenty wide to get around. The one drawback is there is only one clearly marked set of restrooms, located near the entrance to the arena. As such, you may have to do a little walking depending on where your seats are and there may be a line during down times of the game. An important note to add here is that beginning in 2022, Drake issued a no re-entry policy to all its’ sporting events. Return on Investment 4 Attending a game at the Knapp Center is a very good value. Tickets range anywhere from $9 up to $29 for the best seats you can buy, which is a bargain for NCAA Division I college basketball. Combine the ticket price with reasonable food prices and the Knapp Center will show you a darn good time for not a lot of money. Extras 4 The Knapp Center does a great job of celebrating Drake athletics. From the banners atop the arena to many different exhibits around the lobby, make sure to take the time to look around. There is a lot to see. Another point goes to the student section. They are into the game the entire way and greatly add to the college basketball atmosphere. A final point, to the live mascot, a bulldog named Griff II, who is generally present and accounted for at most games. Final Thoughts Knapp Center provides a great college basketball atmosphere without breaking the bank. The arena is nice and there is plenty of good food in the area. Drake basketball isn’t as celebrated as fellow in-state schools Iowa and Iowa State, but a visit to the Knapp Center is well worth any college basketball fan’s time.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Crenshaw Field 445 Westhampton Way Richmond, VA 23173 Richmond Spiders website Crenshaw Field website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 500 The Spiders Web Located on the Westhampton side of the University of Richmond Campus, Crenshaw Field is home to the Spiders’ field hockey program. Although field hockey has been played on this spot for some time, Crenshaw Field as it exists today was constructed in 2001 following major renovations compared to what previously existed here. Multiple renovations have occurred since then including turf upgrades in 2011 and the addition of lights in 2014. The Spiders are one of the most successful field hockey programs in the Atlantic 10 Conference, having won the conference tournament eight times, the most recent one coming right here at Crenshaw. Food & Beverage 1 Free water bottles are available in a cooler as you come in. Beyond this, there is no food or beverage available, but it is a nice touch. Fans are permitted to bring in items for their own consumption, with the exception of alcohol. Atmosphere 3 Crenshaw Field has a unique layout. When coming into the stadium, you will pass through a field house facility which includes player locker rooms as well as restrooms and the press box. Beyond that, fans will find amphitheater-style seating rather than traditional bleachers. This means that fans will be seated on several rows of stone ledges, or on a hill above It if they wish. These are more comfortable than they look. There is a scoreboard in the far right corner as you are facing the field which shows basic information. Beyond the field, fans have a view of beautiful brick buildings that make up the Richmond campus. As college field hockey is not that big here or anywhere, there are few if any promotions going on before or during the game. This is just a chance to watch the sport in a unique setting, nothing more. Neighborhood 3 Richmond’s campus is about 20-30 minutes from downtown Richmond, right on the edge of the city limits. In fact, as fans of rival school VCU will love to point out, only about half of the University of Richmond campus is actually in the City of Richmond. The other half is in neighboring Henrico County. If you head down Three Chopt Road, there are a few restaurants and other places available, but your best bet is to head about three miles east on Route 147 to the Carytown neighborhood which has far more options available. We recommend the Galaxy Diner and Carytown Burgers and Fries as your best bets. Fans 3 Although Crenshaw Field is a very small venue, it can get surprisingly full for a Spiders home game. Although it won’t get packed to the point of discomfort, fans fill most of the stone ledge area, with many more sitting above on the grassy knolls. Many of them are friends and family of the players, or are Richmond students themselves, and they cheer on the Spiders throughout the game. Visiting team fans also often have a strong presence here. When we visited, the Spiders were playing a team located over 500 miles away, and they still showed a good presence. Expect even more visiting fans if the Spiders are playing their crosstown foe VCU or other nearby schools like Old Dominion or UVA. Access 3 Getting to the Richmond campus is easy enough. It is conveniently located a couple miles off I-64, the Downtown Expressway, or the Powhite Parkway, depending on where you are coming from. The first route is toll-free but the second two have small tolls. Unfortunately, once you get on campus, finding Crenshaw Field can be difficult. There are no signs directing you and many GPS apps will take you to the wrong side of the field and proclaim that you have arrived despite being nowhere near the entrance or parking. There is a lot directly outside the front gate, across the street from the soccer field, but putting in the address of the soccer field might not work either as GPS apps seem to have trouble with that too. When you do find the parking, there is ample room in the lot and it is free. There are restrooms located in the field house near where you come in, which are small but of a sufficient size for the crowd that shows up. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free and so is parking. If that were all, that would be a good deal, but there wouldn’t be enough here to get the top score. However, when you throw in the free bottled water for all fans, that’s enough to kick this score up a notch. Extras 2 The free bottled water to help fans stay hydrated on hot days, particularly early in the season, is a nice touch. Free programs are available at a table as you come in as well. Final Thoughts College field hockey simply isn’t a huge deal at Richmond or anywhere else in the country. However, Crenshaw Field is one of the most unique venues where fans can watch the sport, and one of the top venues in the Atlantic 10. While only the most dedicated sports fans would be willing to make a lengthy trip to check it out, for Spiders fans and those from the Richmond area in general, it is well worth checking out.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium 550 Taylor Ave Annapolis, MD 21401 Military Bowl website Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 34,000 Bowl Game Football in Maryland Nestled on the coast of Maryland, the historic home of Navy Football plays host to the Military Bowl every year. Under the blue skies of the Atlantic coast fans gather to watch teams battle it out for bowl season glory. Pitting AAC and ACC teams against each other, this matchup usually delivers excitement and close competition. Also, thanks to its location, this may be one of the more under-appreciated bowl games of the year. Food & Beverage 3 While most food concessions stand at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium are open during the Military Bowl, some are closed, meaning you’re down on some selections. Nonetheless, the food choices are solid enough for a sports stadium. Beer prices are what would be expected, ranging from $9 to $11, with other beverages including coffee or hot cocoa ($4), bottled water ($5), and Gatorade or bottled soda ($6). Food options include hot dogs ($4), pretzels ($5), nachos ($6), popcorn ($5), candy ($3), and more. Atmosphere 3 Navy-Marine Corps Stadium is a mixed bag in terms of the overall aesthetic. Opened in 1957 it has seen some updates while also keeping some of its original characters The northwest end zone features general admission seating on a raised berm, as well as grassy areas for the fans to watch from. These areas run all the way up to the end zone wall, meaning you can get close to the action. The northeast and southwest sidelines offer two-level seating, though only the lower bowl is utilized during the Military Bowl, depending on ticket demand. The southeast end zone features a large scoreboard with limited end zone seating, as well as several multi-level suite boxes with viewing patios. The overall stadium itself is solid enough but lacks anything overwhelmingly modern. Restrooms are small and the passages under the grandstands are equally as cramped when a full crowd tries to navigate them at the same time. Neighborhood 5 Annapolis, the state’s capitol, is a beautiful town located on the shores of the Severn River’s exit into the Chesapeake Bay. It is located almost equidistant from both Baltimore and Washington D.C., providing easy access to two major metropolitan cities full of shopping, dining, and major airports. The area around the stadium is quaint and features many historic sites, including the Maryland State House. Shopping and dining are plentiful downtown near the Annapolis waterfront area as well, and fans can find plenty to entertain themselves there. Fans 4 The matchup for the Military Bowl pits teams from the ACC and American conferences against each other – this means a close matchup is likely each year, and the fans are more than ready for it. While the lower bowl is usually the only seating being used for the game, the fans nonetheless are loud enough with each big play. The game also has a very family-friendly feel to it, and there is a real camaraderie in the grandstands among the fans in attendance. Access 4 To get to Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium you simply need to drive on US 50 from the DC area, or on I-97 to US 50 from the Baltimore Area; these two routes will both drop you steps from the stadium. Once you’re there, parking is plentiful – official stadium parking is $40 for pre-purchase or $50 on the day of, with numerous lots in the area ranging from $20 and up. Signage in the stadium is plentiful as well, making it easy to get around and navigate the facility. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to the Military Bowl range from $40 to $100, with plenty of flexibility depending on your budget. With that in mind, this is great pricing for a bowl game offering a solid matchup. The weather is great in Annapolis in December, and the area is right next door to some major sights and cities. Without a doubt, this is one of the more affordable bowl games on the schedule, making this a solid option for those who want the bowl season experience without the playoff prices. Extras 3 The northwest end zone features the Navy goat statue as well as a memorial garden for the military, which showcases plaques and memorial statues from the Navy’s past. Also of interest is the Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet on display outside the stadium, which is a popular photo spot for fans. Finally, the stadium’s ring of honor features historic and notable Navy battles instead of former player names. Final Thoughts The Military Bowl is a matchup that many may overlook when planning their bowl game travels. Should your favorite team make it to this game, or should you be looking for a great game option for a visit, the Military Bowl no doubt is a solid one when deciding where to go. Affordable tickets and parking with plentiful seating in a great location make this a perfect match for college football fans.

Photos by Justin Sutton, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium 1000 Alcorn Ave Lorman, MS 39097 Alcorn State Braves website Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 22,500 The Home of Alcorn State Football Located in one of the oldest parts of the Magnolia State, Alcorn State University sits in relative isolation when compared to many of the Division I universities around the country. However, when on campus, one will not feel that isolation, because Spinks-Casem Stadium, the home of the Alcorn State Braves, sits in the middle of the campus. Food & Beverage 2 If a fan is looking for a culinary experience at the stadium, they will walk away disappointed. That said, there are still pretty good deals to be had at an Alcorn State football game. Hot wings are available for six dollars, and turkey legs go for seven dollars. If someone is looking for a bit more, combo meals are available for six dollars. Hamburgers and pizza also come reasonably priced at the concession stand, and other items such as popcorn, nachos, and peanuts are sold, as well. The knock comes on the availability of the items. Perhaps it was because of the size of the crowd or the fact that the season was coming to a close when I visited, but none of the concessions stands had everything listed on the menu. Atmosphere 3 A trip to Spinks-Casem Stadium feels like a visit to a college football venue. With tailgates going on all around the stadium, the atmosphere is set for college football. When fans enter the stadium, they remain excited for the game about to take place. The stadium may not reach full capacity, but the crowd that attends keeps things lively during the contest, and the halftime shows almost always entertain. Neighborhood 2 To be honest, there is not much of a neighborhood to Alcorn State. The university just appears after a drive down Mississippi Highway 552. However, if you need to grab something before the game to eat, park in the general parking area. On the way into that parking area, there are three restaurants: The College Grill, Wingos, and Pattons. Also, this parking entrance is by the campus police station, which houses the only ATM on campus. However, fans who care about a culinary experience will make sure to hit up The Old Country Store on US 61 just about two miles south of the Highway 552 exit. The hours are limited (10am-5pm every day), so plan accordingly. If you do so, some of the best fried chicken in the world will be yours. Fans going to the game might be best served by making Natchez, a town located a little over an hour away, their base of operations for the weekend. Fans 3 Alcorn State fans care about their football team, and they expect to see a quality team on the field. Fans of all ages attend the games. It is not uncommon to see high school students and younger children at the game sitting next to much older fans. All of them stay very engaged in the game while enjoying the company of those around them. While the atmosphere is a bit more subdued than that of an SEC affair, it can still be fun. Access 2 There is no way around the fact that there is not an easy way to get to Alcorn State. Most will either travel north or south on US 61 or take the Natchez Trace (something that I would recommend for those not from the area) to get close to the stadium. Once there, parking can be a bit confusing, but it will be figured out. However, you will be on your own to figure it out, as there is not a large gameday operations staff helping with the situation after taking your money. Caution is advised coming home from night games at Alcorn State as deer love to dart across the highways in the area. Do not pay the $25 for VIP parking. It is not worth $20 more than the general admission parking. Return on Investment 3 Fans hoping to get into an Alcorn State game will look at paying $20 per ticket. Unless one has a rooting interest or a burning desire to see a game at Alcorn State, the price seems a bit too high. However, for a football game $20 is not that expensive of a ticket, so the price does work out to be fair, and if the right game is chosen, there can be NFL-caliber players in the contest. Extras 2 Steve McNair played his college ball at Alcorn State, and surprisingly, there does not appear to be anything celebrating this fact. Fans going to the game have no reason to not have Alcorn State attire. There are Barnes and Noble booths in the stadium, and many vendors set up temporarily along Highway 552 to sell their items.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Brown Softball Field 235 Hope St. Providence, RI Brown Bears softball website Brown Softball Field website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 250 Brown Bears Softball   The Brown Bears softball team received a new stadium on the same site as their old field in time for the 2017 season. A group of donors led by Mark Attanasio, Brown class of 1979 alumnus and owner of the Milwaukee Brewers, provided $5 million in grants that were used to refurbish both the baseball and softball fields.   Those renovations featured the installation of synthetic turf at the stadium, sunken dugouts, a new backstop, expanded batting tunnels and bullpens, and a new and improved scoreboard and press box. In addition, new chairback seating was installed in the seating bowl.   Brown softball competes in the Ivy League, which has sponsored competition since 1980. During that time, the Bears have won five conference titles, three of them outright. Their most recent Ivy crown was won in 2004. Brown has qualified for one NCAA tournament, losing both of their games in the 1997 tourney.   Food & Beverage 1   On certain days throughout the Bears spring schedule, the Bruno Eats food truck is present at the Erickson Sports Complex. Operated by Brown Dining Services, it offers a rotating menu throughout the season. Visiting Bears fans may find a seclection of burgers, tacos, or other snacks available on a given weekend. If you happen to visit Brown on a weekend when there is no food truck on site, fans are welcome to bring their own snacks to enjoy during the game. On chilly spring Rhode Island afternoons, it’s not unusual to see many fans enjoying warm beverages from the local Dunkin’ or Aroma Joe’s.   Atmosphere 2   The game day atmosphere at college softball games, at least in the northeast, is a bit more laid back than fans may be accustomed to, even by standards in this area. You shouldn’t expect an elaborate presentation with a lot of bells and whistles. Music is played over a decent sound system between innings and batters, but most of the noise here comes from the players on the field, who sing, chant, and encourage each other throughout the game. A simple scoreboard in left field displays basic game information. The PA announcer gives fans lineup information without being too over the top or intrusive. The fans, who are likely parents or friends of the players, make their own share of noise. It’s a simple experience, but a lot of fun.     Neighborhood 5     The Brown Softball Field is a part of the Erickson Athletic Complex on the eastern edge of Brown’s urban campus. Located in Providence’s affluent East Side neighborhood, there is much to do in the immediate vicinity of the complex. Most of Brown’s athletic facilities are located here, including Meehan Auditorium , the Paul Bailey Pizzitola Sports Center , Stevenson-Pincince Field  and Murray Stadium .   Brown Stadium is located about a mile away.   Just a couple of blocks from the Athletic Complex is Thayer Street, Brown’s main street and the East Side’s main commercial drag. Numerous cafes, restaurants and shops can be found here, including Brown’s bookstore and the Avon Cinema, which dates back to the early 20th century.   Other notable areas in the East Side a short walk or drive from Brown University are Hope Street, Wayland Square and Wickenden Street. All have their own bohemian vibes and feature great local restaurants, shops and bars. Of course, downtown Providence is located just at the bottom of College Hill about a mile away from campus. If you’re visiting Providence from elsewhere, this is likely where you will find lodging options in addition to numerous additional dining choices.   Providence has a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest small cities in the country for foodies. Visitors to the area will find more than enough choices to satisfy even the most adventurous of palates. If staying in Providence isn’t appealing enough, Boston is an hour’s drive to the north, with the mansions and beaches of Newport about 45 minutes south.   Fans 2   The fans at Brown softball games can be described as a “friends and family” type of crowd. Attendance at Bears games generally ranges between 50-100 fans per game. With a multitude of events going on simultaneously at the sports complex on spring weekends, it’s not unusual to see fans roam from game to game over the course of the afternoon.   Most of the fans at the Brown Softball Field have a personal connection to the players on the field and are very enthusiastic in their support of the Bears. With Brown playing a schedule loaded with local teams, it’s not unusual to see a solid turnout from supporters of the visiting nine.   Access 3     The Brown Softball Field is located in Brown University’s athletic complex on the East Side of Providence. While the Brown University campus is located near both Interstate 95 and 195, there is no direct way to get to or from campus. If driving, one must navigate a maze of neighborhood streets before arriving at the facility. If attending a game during a weekday, Providence can be a tough city in which to get around. The 2024 closure of the Washington Bridge, the main way to access Providence from all points on the East Bay, has only made getting into the city more difficult.   Several RIPTA buses run regularly to nearby Thayer Street, and the Brown campus is just a short distance from Brown Softball Field. Check the  RIPTA website for schedules , fares and route maps.   Parking is available for Brown softball at no charge in any of several small lots shared by the university’s athletic venues. A map to these lots can be found here . Fans unable to find a spot in the lots will find free on-street parking in the streets around the stadium. Finding an available spot is usually not too hard to do on weekends. Patient visitors should be able to find spots within easy walking distance of the ballpark.   The Brown Softball Field is located in a remote corner of the Erickson complex, beyond Murray Stadium. The small grandstand contains some individual folding stadium seats directly behind home plate, with metal bleachers with backs further down the lines. There are no permanent rest room facilities at Brown Softball Field. Fans will have to make do with a pair of port-a-johns located beyond the outfield fence.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge to attend a Brown softball game. Fans are welcome to bring in their own refreshments, and parking is free in the Erickson Complex parking lot or on the streets in the area. Going to a Brown Bears softball game will not cost you a cent.   Extras 1                                                                                                             Bears Ivy League championships and tournament appearances are posted on the outfield fence.   Final Thoughts   College softball in the northeast may be somewhat of an afterthought in the crowded spring sports scene, but an afternoon spent at a Brown softball game is an enjoyable and affordable way for local sports fans to spend a beautiful spring Rhode Island day.   Fans planning to visit Providence should keep in mind that the college softball season takes place mostly during the months of March and April, when the weather in New England can be fickle and unpredictable. Postponements and schedule changes are common occurrences. It’s best to make your plans flexible if possible.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Valhalla Stadium 2277 Martha Berry Hwy NW Mount Berry, GA 30149 Berry Vikings website Valhalla Stadium website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 1,500 Berry College Vikings – Valhalla Stadium, Williams Field The excitement of college football is not only on display at its highest levels – Division III college football provides similar thrills as its more mainstream counterpart. Even though there are not the same bright lights, national broadcasters, and massive crowds, D3 football is still a highly enjoyable experience. Football was first introduced at Berry College in 2013; from the big picture the program is still in its early stages of development. After going 0-9 in their inaugural season, Berry saw its first winning campaign in just its third year of existence. Since then the Vikings have captured five Southern Athletic Conference titles, all in succession from 2016 thru the COVID-shortened 2020 season. Despite still being relatively young, Berry College football has proven itself a worthy adversary at the national level of D3 football. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at Valhalla Stadium do not feature items that could be considered unique to the area. Staples include hot dogs, pizza, nachos, and chicken sandwiches, while snacks include chips, candy, peanuts, and popcorn, with beverage choices consisting of bottled water, Powerade, and Coke products. Berry College chooses not to sell alcohol on campus. A boost to concessions comes from food trucks that are available from time-to-time throughout the season. Given the space available, however, it would be a wonderful addition if they were featured on a regular basis here, to give fans a wider variety of options. This is not to say what is available is lacking, but that it would just add more to the experience. Atmosphere 3 Berry College takes on many of the football traditions often seen at larger schools, and incorporates them into its own pre-game experience. From tailgating to the Viking Walk into the stadium, it all goes a long way in creating a big school college feel. Berry College is a dry campus, though, so alcoholic beverages are prohibited at tailgates. Valhalla is the perfect size for Division 3 football – the stadium has a distinct brick-and-stone theme used throughout the seating on both sides of the stadium, plus gentle sloping walkways leading to bleachers on each side of the field. The home stands run between the 25-yard lines, and consist of five sections of aluminum bench seating – the middle section runs between the 45-yard lines to make up the reserved seating. The visiting stands are modest in size, but are also a great fit for the stadium. As with football at many smaller schools, there is not a stadium structure surrounding the field; rather there is mostly tall iron fencing with brick and stone pillars signifying the stadium boundaries. This creates some charming quirks. Much of the land surrounding the front of campus where Valhalla Stadium sits is surrounded by pastures; when the stadium was built, the neighbors just became a piece of the game’s backdrop. For example, a decent sized herd of cattle can often be seen roaming the area just behind the south end zone. Berry does a fantastic job working the school’s Norse theme into much of what they do throughout the game. Aside from the stadium being named in reference to the Norse heaven for Viking warriors that die in battle, the Norse theme is used throughout the game – cheerleaders chant, “Row! Row! Row!” leading up to each kickoff, and Berry first downs are singled over the stadium speakers with the sounding of a Viking horn. When it comes to entertainment during breaks in the action, following brief pieces by the Berry band, fans of the hair metal of the 80s and 90s will thoroughly enjoy playlists featuring the Scorpions, Ratt, Cinderella, and Mötley Crüe. Also, in one of the greatest traditions of college sports, especially in football, following the game the Vikings gather in front of the home stands to sing the school’s alma mater with their fans. All-in-all, the game day experience at Berry College is a hidden gem of small school college football. Neighborhood 3 The Berry College campus is a town unto itself, literally. The unincorporated Mount Berry is on the northern outskirts of the city of Rome, Georgia, and is almost the dividing line of where neighborhoods meet sprawling countryside. Neighborhood is a bit of a relative term when it comes to Berry College, as the campus is almost a city unto itself – at 27,000 acres, Berry’s campus is the largest in the world, including miles of walking trails, research environments, and endless beauty. Mount Berry is a short drive to downtown Rome and several restaurants and shops. Just around the corner is AdventHealth Stadium , home of the Rome Emperors and a small development consisting of an Italian restaurant and coffee shop. Rome also has a scenic riverwalk made up of 13 miles of paved trails that meander along the Coosa, Oostanaula, and Etowah rivers. Fans 4 Vikings fans are supportive of their team and do a good job filling the stands and surrounding grassy areas. With a seating capacity of 2,500, Valhalla Stadium’s attendance numbers reflect a nearly full stadium week in and week out, and the attendance figures are even more impressive given that Berry College’s enrollment only hovers around 2,000 students. Berry College football seems to have a large following from both alumni as well as fans from the surrounding area. While there is a student contingent, it is the alumni and local community that make up a majority of the fan base. In all, Berry football is well supported; fans tend to be a bit reactionary to the action on the field, but are highly supportive on the whole. Access 3 Berry College is a bit off the beaten path. Fans arriving from the nearby metropolitan areas of Atlanta or Chattanooga will use I-75 and still have more than 30 minutes on state highways to reach the Mount Berry, Georgia campus. On a GPS note, directions to Valhalla Stadium lead to an access road that is not open for arrival at the stadium. Instead, stadium access is actually through the second drive into campus along Martha Berry Boulevard, which also serves as the school’s main entrance. Parking is easily accessible at the lot for the Cage Center, the school’s recreation center and home of Berry basketball. This is a relatively small lot, so parking behind Evans, McAllister, or Hermann Halls is also made available. These lots are only a short walk from the football facility, with Evans Hall being the closest of the secondary parking areas. All fans will pass through a common entry point with a large, stone archway that reads “Valhalla” atop it. This walkway leads to massive ornate iron gates with “BC” worked into the design, which are sheltered by a wood and stone entry way. Those needing to buy tickets will find the ticket booth just to the right of the entrance. Once inside the stadium, fans enter a small plaza with apparel tents, the concessions stand, and restrooms. Vikings fans will take the walkway to the right, which leads to a ramp to the home side seating area. The front row of bleachers is handicap accessible and has adjacent companion seating. The visiting bleachers are a short walk around to the opposite side of the field – that side also has a gradual ramp to the seating area, along with similar handicap seating in the front row of bleachers. Overall, Valhalla Stadium is easily accessible from the parking areas and appears to be very handicap-friendly. The drawback is Berry’s location does not make the campus easy to get to. Return on Investment 4 General admission ticket prices are in line with what would be expected at this level of football. General admission tickets go for $10, while reserved seating in the single section of chairback seats is available for $25. Unless a seatback is a must, the bleacher seating should suffice given the difference in price points. Online ticket sales only run to Wednesday the week of home games; otherwise tickets can be purchased in person at the box office. With free parking available and reasonable concessions prices, an outing to a Berry football game is definitely an affordable experience. Extras 3 The sprawling campus is absolutely beautiful in late October into November, when the fall colors of northwest Georgia are on full display. Halftime pass outs are allowed for fans to leave the stadium to return to their tailgating encampments or vehicles, and later re-enter the stadium. The fencing around the northern end of the field also recognizes the school’s conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. Final Thoughts Berry College plays an exciting brand of football that is predicated around creating a lot of defensive pressure, forcing opposing teams into mistakes. Offensively the Vikings run an up-tempo, balanced offensive attack that puts a lot of points on the board. The highly entertaining style the Vikings play, paired with the stunning surroundings of Berry’s campus, are a wonderful setting which creates an under-the-radar Saturday of college football fun.