Photos by Brian Wilmer, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 George S. Erath Field at Coy O. Williams Baseball Stadium 1013 N College Dr High Point, NC 27262 High Point Panthers website George S. Erath Field at Coy O. Williard Baseball Stadium website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 550 Choose To Be Extraordinary North Carolina is a state loaded with collegiate baseball history. Though no Tar Heel State team has raised the trophy in Omaha since Wake Forest accomplished the feat in 1955, North Carolina has played for two titles. NC State and Duke have also enjoyed success on the diamond, and many other schools across the state have participated in the NCAA regionals in recent years. High Point University has spent fewer than two decades at the Division I level, but has already placed a player in Major League Baseball (reliever Cody Allen) and hosted the Big South Conference baseball tournament. The Panthers’ home, Williard Baseball Stadium, is part of a vibrant athletic complex that continues to enjoy significant growth. If you want to catch a North Carolina program on the rise in a comfortable setting, High Point may just be your place. Food & Beverage 3 One should not expect a large amount of offerings at a High Point game. There are, however, enough choices to enjoy a small meal or in-game snack from the lone concession stand behind home plate. The school offers four hot items as part of the menu. Domino’s pizza slices ($2), hot dogs ($2), nachos and cheese ($2.75) and warm pretzels ($2.75) serve as the “entrees.” For those seeking a snack, candy and bagged chips are available for $1.50 per item. Coca-Cola serves as the Panthers’ bottler, with bottled sodas, Powerade and water available for $2. If you attend a weekday game, you might be able to enjoy an even more inexpensive night out. The school sells hot dogs for $1 apiece during in-week games. Atmosphere 3 Williard Stadium is just steps from the university’s expanding track and field sports facility, and the Millis Center — along with numerous additional campus buildings — is visible beyond the outfield fence. The view reinforces the integration of the facility into the fabric of the campus. There are also a few interestingly-hued houses (green, red, blue, et al) visible beyond the outfield wall. One of the more interesting atmospheric touches in the ballpark is also a considerable drawback. There is a bit of a “wide-open” feel in the seating bowl, as there is no overhanging structure. While this allows views of most of the action on the field from almost anywhere inside the confines of the park, this also means that there are no shaded seating areas. Therefore, day games make sunscreen a requirement. If you are visiting for an evening game and sitting on the third base (visiting) side, consider a good pair of sunglasses and a hat to block out the setting sun. The sun will remain in your eyes for at least the first half of most evening contests. All of the seats in the seating bowl are fixed, eliminating the highly uncomfortable spring option of bleachers. There is a reasonable amount of leg room for each seat, though the considerable amount of distance between the plate and backstop separates the seats from the field a bit. A standard nine-inning scoreboard can be found beyond the wall in right-center field. The board contains the normal options one would expect to see when attending a game, along with a digital clock and LED board. The board is not used for video options, but does display statistical information about the current batter and the first three batters due up in the next inning. Advertisements are also occasionally shown on the board, with each shutout inning by the homestanding Panthers sponsored — for whatever reason — by a local real estate agent. Neighborhood 2 Williard Stadium is located in a largely residential neighborhood, near the intersection of Lexington and College. There are just a couple of options — along with a Food Lion grocery store — within a reasonable distance of the park. A small group of fans tailgate in a nearby parking lot before the game, so if you feel outgoing and adventurous, it may be worth trying to introduce yourself and joining the tailgate. Many dining options can be found along North Main Street and Eastchester Drive (North Carolina Highway 68), though these options are well outside walking distance from the campus. Gianno’s, the official caterer of High Point athletics, is located on Eastchester Drive. Fans 2 A fairly sizeable crowd can be found in the seats at most Panther games. The night I attended featured a crowd of 522 (capacity is 550), with numerous others gathered outside of the gates to watch. The number of fans in attendance is comparable with a number of Big South schools. The true concern comes when analyzing the crowd itself. Attending games at High Point seems to be more of a social affair, with fans appearing more interested in hanging out with friends and catching up on the latest social news, versus making their support of the home team heard. The atmosphere can get a bit quiet at times, with the ability to hear the players on the field louder than the fans nearby in the stands. The crowd woke up a bit toward the end of the game I attended, though one might have expected more of a response throughout what ended up being a one-run game. Access 3 For fans looking to access High Point by air, the Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) is located about 20 minutes north of the university in Greensboro. This is easy enough. However, the numerous interstate highways in the Triad tend not to visit the High Point campus. Interstate 74 (co-signed with US Highway 311) is the nearest interstate, and is some ten minutes from the campus. North Carolina Highway 68 (Eastchester Drive) eventually connects the campus to the airport, though there are a number of stoplights along the route. Upon your arrival to campus, parking is a bit of a challenge. There is a small lot behind the track, though it quickly fills. Therefore, it is probably best to park along the street on West College Drive (behind the track) or East Farris Avenue (between the stadium and the main campus guard house). Though this parking is free, it is not among the most convenient possible options. Either option will leave you with about a five-minute walk. There is a tiny concourse inside the ballpark, and the concession stand and restrooms are located on the concourse. The restrooms are clean and well-kept, satisfying the needs of any crowd that may attend a game at Williard Stadium. Return on Investment 4 In a world where it seems as though there is more demand for the entertainment dollar than ever, High Point offers a tremendous entertainment value for fans looking to enjoy a night out. The Big South is one of the better “non-power” baseball conferences in America, and it is almost a guarantee that, no matter the game, a great opponent will be on the field to take on the Panthers. Using the standard test we often apply, a fan can get a seat ($5 for any seat in the park), a hot dog ($2) and a soda ($2) for just nine dollars, meaning a family of four can almost assuredly attend a game for under $40. Parking is also free, removing one of the usual headaches at a game. Value such as this is hard to argue. . Extras 3 High Point has a sports marketing table just inside the entrance to the stadium. The table features free roster sheets and other helpful documentation. For those who love to keep score at a game — and who doesn’t? — score sheets can also be found at this table. If sitting in a regular ballpark seat bores you, the school furnishes rocking chairs along the top of the concourse. These chairs fill up early, so it is best to arrive early to guarantee a shot at one of these comfortable chairs. Rocking chairs are a long-time part of Southern lore, and these chairs give the park a sense of identity. If you are a “knothole” viewer who chooses to watch the game from outside the interior of the park, there is a large hill behind the first base dugout on which fans can stand or sit. This area also contains one of the only sections of shade in the vicinity of the park. There is also a section beyond the center field wall called the Panther’s Den, in which fans tend to gather to watch the game. This area contains picnic tables and standing room. While these areas allow you to get a glimpse of the game without buying a ticket, you are also not afforded the options of concessions and restrooms offered within the gates. Keep this in mind when making your decision. Final Thoughts Sure, the park could be a bit louder and more lively, but — surprisingly — this may dim some of its charm. If a comfortable, inexpensive baseball experience is what you seek, come pull up a rocking chair at Williard Stadium. You’ll be treated to great people, beautiful weather and a relaxing night at the ballpark.

Photo Courtesy FAMU Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Moore-Kittles Field 2400 Wahnish Way Tallahassee, FL 32310 Florida A&M Rattlers website Moore-Kittles Field website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 500 Rattling the Competition Florida A&M University is one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), as it was founded in 1887. Located in Tallahassee, Florida, it has an enrollment of more than 11,000 students on its 422 acre campus. The most popular majors are business administration, biology, criminal justice and engineering. Other unique academic offerings are jazz studies, health informatics and Black Studies. Some of FAMU’S most famous graduates are Bob Hayes of the Dallas Cowboys, Althea Gibson of tennis fame, Pam Oliver of Fox Sports, and Congresswoman Carrie Meek. The baseball program has a long history at the university, as the first team was fielded in 1899. Some of its most famous alums include major leaguers Hal McRae, Vince Coleman, Marquis Grissom, and Andre Dawson. The Rattlers have been to 14 NCAA tournaments. In 1983, Rattler baseball moved into its present home, Moore-Kittles Field, named for two long-time FAMU baseball coaches. The stadium has a seating capacity of just 500, and features a natural grass field. The Rattlers athletic teams compete in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). FAMU also has a very national schedule of opponents as many northern teams schedule games in the Sunshine State during the late winter / early spring months due to the warm climate and their own home fields still be covered with snow. Food & Beverage 2 The concessions at Moore-Kittles are extremely limited, as the concession stand is literally a folding table behind the backstop, with a cooler for the drinks. The items available are chips, candy, and peanuts, each selling for a dollar. Coca-Cola products are available for $2. Many of the home crowd bring their own coolers with them and since there is no admission cost, people make runs to the convenience store two blocks down the road. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at FAMU baseball games is that of a community gathering. A large portion of the crowd are elderly fans that live in the neighborhood and simply walk over to the games for a few hours of free entertainment. It is not unusual for several generations of a family to be at a game. The neighbors really get into the games and know the players by their first name. Another nice aspect to the game atmosphere is the interaction between the neighborhood residents, FAMU students in attendance and parents of many of the ball players. In return, the FAMU players show a great deal of respect for their supporters, by applauding them at the end of the game. Neighborhood 4 FAMU is located just south of downtown Tallahassee and is close to a wide variety of retail, dining and lodging establishments. Locals say that Cassandra’s, located just across the street from the university is the place to go for great Southern food. FAMU and Florida State University are only 1-2 miles apart and this area of Tallahassee is known as the CollegeTown neighborhood. Some of the more popular eating and watering establishments in the area are Madison Social, MODA, and Taco Taqueria. The funky Railroad Square Arts District is home to many unique studios and galleries and the Proof Brewery. Tallahassee’s main mall, Governor’s Square Mall is located on nearby Apalachee Parkway, as are a majority of the hotel chains. The area between FAMU and FSU also has a major new greenway park called the Cascades Park, which includes walking/biking trails, the Capital City Amphitheatre and a waterfall. Fans 4 FAMU fans love their baseball and the bleachers are at capacity at nearly every game. They are very knowledgeable about the game and really create some noise during Rattler Rallies. There is no doubting their allegiance, as FAMU’s orange and green team colors are hard to miss. Visiting fans are very welcome at the games, as many of the northern colleges have strong fan bases that travel to Florida to escape the harsh weather at the beginning of college baseball season. FAMU followers are proud of their school and believe in southern hospitality, so you will not hear any trash talking at Moore-Kittles Field. Access 3 Florida A&M is located in the state capital of Tallahassee, which is at the midpoint of the Florida Panhandle. It is just a few miles off I-10 and is located very close to the Tallahassee Regional Airport. FAMU is a very easy campus to navigate and parking is free for baseball games. There are numerous hotels and restaurants located in close proximity to the campus. The StarMetro Transit system provides excellent service for the city of Tallahassee and also provides on-campus shuttle bus service for FAMU as well as FSU. Return on Investment 3 There is no charge to attend FAMU baseball games and parking is free immediately adjacent to the field. Hotels are easy to find in the $70-$80 range, unless there is a major event going on in the Tallahassee area. A majority of the restaurants near the universities primarily cater to a college student’s budget so a good meal can be had at a reasonable price. . Extras 3 Tallahassee has a wide variety of extras to offer during your visit. Being the state capital, there are a number of museums to choose from. There are two that stand out from the usual government-run exhibit halls. The first is managed by FAMU and takes a fascinating look at African American culture and famous African American citizens, many of which were graduates of the university. The Black Archives Research Center also has one of the few genealogical centers that can help trace the ancestry of many visitors back to slave times and before. Car enthusiasts will really enjoy the Tallahassee Auto Museum, which is ranked as one of the top tourist attractions in the capital city. If the FAMU baseball game does not totally satisfy your baseball urge you can always check out Dick Howser Stadium and the Florida State Seminoles baseball program. Located right next door to the stadium is the famous FSU Student Circus, one of the most unique offerings to be found on any college campus.

Photos by Tyler Green, Stadium Journey & EKU Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Turkey Hughes Stadium 521 Lancaster Ave Richmond, KY 40475 Eastern Kentucky Colonels website Turkey Hughes Field website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 500 Turkey Hughes Field The Eastern Kentucky Colonels play their home baseball games at Turkey Hughes Field. The venue was named for Charles T. “Turkey” Hughes, who was quite a renaissance man in EKU athletics history. During his 43 years on the Richmond campus, he was the head coach of five sports, including baseball, and even helped form the Ohio Valley Conference in 1948. His name graces this 1960s venue due to these numerous contributions to Colonel athletics. The listed capacity of Turkey Hughes Field is 500 spectators. The stadium consists of three sections of bleachers, each with ten rows, meaning no fans are far from the action at home plate. If they choose, fans can also stand along the brick wall past the dugouts on either the first or third baseline. The playing surface has a unique character; it features a synthetic turf infield which allows EKU games to be played in a variety of weather scenarios. The outfield remains the traditional patterned grass and the pitcher’s mound is the expected dirt. This field and the brick wall backstop were the result of a $500,000 renovation in 2009 and more upgrades are planned for the future. Food & Beverage 3 A single food cart provides the food and beverage selections at Turkey Hughes Field. The limited selections are balanced out by the extremely reasonable prices. Hot items are guaranteed to be fresh, as a charcoal grill is used to prepare hamburgers and hot dogs right next to the cart. The hamburger, cheeseburger, and hot dog sell for $1.50, $2, and $1.50, respectively. As for drinks, water and soft drinks are $1, while Gatorade is $2. Other assorted selections are chips or candy for $1 and kettle corn for $3. For those fans still conscious of their burger toppings or previous meal, the food cart even sells 3 pieces of chewing gum for 25 cents. It may not be the biggest selection in sports, but it certainly is an affordable menu. Atmosphere 2 As with any baseball stadium, walk-up music accompanies each EKU batter on their trip up to the plate. The pre-game music and inter-inning sounds are almost entirely country music. Outside this music and sporadic cheering from the minimal crowd, there is not much in the way of atmosphere to be found at Turkey Hughes Stadium. Neighborhood 0 Turkey Hughes Field is situated in the middle of Eastern Kentucky University’s sports complex. It is flanked on one side by tennis courts and the basketball gym, McBrayer Arena, and on the other side by the football stadium, Roy Kidd Stadium. As found at most populous interstate exits, a variety of fast food is available on the 1.5-mile stretch between I-75 and Turkey Hughes Field. Choices include McDonald’s; Qdoba; Fazoli’s, a regional fast-food Italian chain; and Lee’s, a southern fried chicken joint. Visiting fans wanting to explore the Eastern Kentucky campus just have to take a short walk north of the venue to experience the central campus. Just north of campus on Main Street, or about a mile from Turkey Hughes Field, are several bars and grills. Jerzees, Madison Garden, and Paddy Wagon Irish Pub are all in this area and are known as gathering places. Fans 2 During my most recent visit in early 2013, a respectable number of EKU fans showed up for a Sunday afternoon conference game, mostly filling the bleachers behind the Colonel dugout near third base. The fan support is typical, with fans taking breaks from conversation to cheer and clap for the end of a defensive half-inning or base hits. Access 4 Turkey Hughes Field is located on the southern end of the Eastern Kentucky University campus. Visitors should take exit 87 off I-75 and travel east approximately 1.5 miles. Its proximity to the interstate as major as I-75 makes Hughes Field easily accessible from a variety of regional cities, especially Lexington, which is a brief 40 minutes to the north. Free parking is available immediately behind the venue in the EKU campus lots, which are off control during the times of baseball games, such as weekends and weekday evenings. Keep in mind that this is directly behind a baseball stadium; be sure to park as far from the stadium as you can, but in the same lot, as foul balls frequently land directly behind the venue. Since fans can congregate along the baseline walls, this area along the third base would be the best place for wheelchair seating. There are no restroom facilities at Turkey Hughes Field; fans needing this service should use the facilities in the adjacent McBrayer Arena. Return on Investment 4 There is no charge for admission to an EKU baseball game at Turkey Hughes Field. However, there is also not much atmosphere. For long-time Colonel fans or baseball lovers, an EKU game is an extremely affordable, accessible, and pleasant way to spend an afternoon or evening. For everyone else, Turkey Hughes Field may not be the most lively use of your time. An EKU baseball game here is simply what you make of it. If you love free baseball, catch a game at Turkey Hughes Field soon . Extras 1 One bonus point for the banner celebrating EKU’s 16 Ohio Valley Conference championships, which leads the OVC. The most recent of these was in 2012.

Photos by Lloyd Brown Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Jack Stephens Center 2801 S University Ave Little Rock, AR 72204 Little Rock Trojans website Jack Stephens Center website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 5,600 Where The Trojans Play H-O-R-S-E The University of Arkansas-Little Rock was founded in 1927 as Little Rock Junior College. It became a four-year degree program in 1957, and it became Little Rock University. In 1969 it became the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Today the University has a student body of more than 9,000 students taking part in more than 60 undergraduate programs and 40 post-graduate level programs. It is especially known for its Business, Law, and Engineering programs. The athletic programs at UALR are known as the Trojans. The Trojans formerly competed in the Sun Belt Conference but switched to the Ohio Valley Conference at the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic year. UALR does not compete in football, so the basketball programs are considered the premier sport at the school. The primary sports facility at UALR is the on-campus Jack Stephens Center. It opened in time for the 2005-2006 basketball season. It is named for prominent businessman Jack Stephens, who donated $22.4 million dollars to the school. The Center serves both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, as well as the women’s volleyball team. The Stephens Center also includes weight rooms, training rooms, and locker rooms that are used by all the UALR athletic teams. Food & Beverage 3 There is one large concession stand in the lobby of the Stephens Arena and three smaller stands along the concourse level of the seating bowl. The stands offer the usual arena/ stadium fare. There are no regional specialties available. The prices for items on the menu are lower than you would expect. Atmosphere 3 The Jack Stephens Center is an impressive facility for viewing a Trojans basketball game. The arena has 12,000 square feet of floor space, including a very colorful court that features the maroon colors of the school and a Trojan icon at midcourt The seating bowl completely encircles the court, with 70% of the seats between the end lines. The crowd enjoys a great view of the action from the comfort of 5,600 leather chairback seats. There are also 12 luxury suites above the action. It is easy to keep up with the action, as the arena has a pair of 90-foot scoreboards with videoboard and stats panels at each end of the court. During breaks in the action, be sure to check out the impressive array of championship banners earned by UALR that hang from the rafters of the facility. Neighborhood 4 UALR is in the Midtown area of Little Rock. The area immediately surrounding the campus is what you would typically expect… lots of fast-food restaurants and service-oriented businesses. However, as you head north towards I-630, you’ll find everything from shopping (Park Plaza Mall) to nature (Boyle Park and the Little Rock Zoo). Head further north to the Arkansas River and ride your bike across the Big Dam Bridge (that’s its name...we’re not cussing) The bridge is a dedicated hike/bike venue that takes you across the river to North Little Rock. If you head east on I-630, you’ll soon be in downtown Little Rock, home to the Clinton Presidential Library and the River Market District. Just park your car and enjoy an afternoon strolling the many shops, museums, restaurants, and parks in the area. For more info on things to do in the UALR area, go to littlerock.com. Fans 4 Earlier we mentioned that UALR does not have a football program. The Trojan fans are not going to let that stop them from participating in the hallowed tradition of tailgating. They arrive early to get a prized spot in the parking lot outside of the Jack Stephens Center. The school sets up “Trojan Alley”, an entertainment and activity area, to add to the fun. Once the crowd is allowed into the Stephens Center, it is hard to miss the student section, which is known as the ‘Maroon Mob”. They have prized seats that almost touch the court. They spend the entire game cheering on the Trojans, while also doing everything they can to confuse and intimidate the visiting team. They do this all in good fun, and they never cross over into questionable behavior. Their energy reaches out to all four corners of the arena. Access 3 It is very easy to get to Jack Stephens Center from virtually any direction, as University Avenue is one of the main thoroughfares in the Little Rock area. Here are the directions from the major interstate in the area. From eastbound I-40: Take I-430 south to I-630. Go east towards downtown Little Rock. Take the University Avenue exit and head south to 28th Avenue. (You will see the UALR marquee) Turn left onto 28th Avenue and the Jack Stephens Center will be on your left. From westbound I-40: Take I-30 west to I-630. Head west on I-630 to the South University exit. Then follow the previous instructions to arrive at the Jack Stephens Center. The doors to the Jack Stephens Center open 45 minutes prior to tipoff, allowing you plenty of time to get to your seat. There is a large lobby outside of the seating area. This area features the concessions area, the team store, and the restrooms. The flow through this area is smooth, with the exception of halftime when it gets quite congested. Return on Investment 3 Going to a Trojans basketball game will not break the bank. Tickets range from $10- $25 depending on where you sit in the Jack Stephens Center. Parking is $5 in Lot 14, which is immediately adjacent to the arena. If you don’t mind a short walk, parking is free in Lot 15. Lodging is available close to the UALR campus at either the Four Points Sheraton or the Embassy Suites Midtown. The school has negotiated a discount, which is available by requesting the Little Rock Trojans rate. Extras 3 The basketball court at Jack Stephens Arena was flooded in December 2022 due to frozen pipes beneath the arena bursting during an extremely cold winter storm. The regular game floor was destroyed. However, the athletic department scrambled and found a temporary floor to use for the remainder of the season. A major “extra” to the athletic department for rescuing the remainder of the home schedule at “ the Jack”! UALR competes against the nearby University of Central Arkansas in the Governor’s I-40 Showdown. The two schools play each other in 11 different sports. Whichever school wins the most of those competitions in a school calendar year takes home the Governor’s I-40 Showdown Trophy. During the time that the men’s basketball program competed in the Sun Belt Conference, they had several very successful seasons and postseasons. They took home the regular season title twice (2016,2020), the Sun Belt Tournament Championship twice (2011,2016), and the Division Championship on four occasions (2005,2008,2009, 2011) Final Thoughts Jack Stephens Arena is a terrific place to take in a Trojans basketball game. It offers comfortable seating, great views of the action, and free parking if you do not mind a short walk. There are plenty of things to see and do in Downtown Little Rock after the game. The Clinton Presidential Center is a must-see, and the River Market has several dining options along the very scenic Arkansas River.

Photos by Justin Sutton, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.42 Lee-Hines Stadium Harding Blvd Baton Rouge, LA 70813 Southern Jaguars website Lee-Hines Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 1,500 Home of the 31 Time SWAC Champions Tucked away on the north-side of Baton Rouge on the campus of Southern University, the SWAC baseball powerhouse Southern Jaguars call Lee-Hines Field home. While Southern baseball can at times be hidden behind the Jag football program and their famous marching band, the Human Jukebox, the baseball program has claimed the SWAC title an impressive 31 times dating back to 1949. Lee-Hines Field has served as home to Southern baseball since 1992 and features a seating capacity of 1500. While the ballpark isn’t filled with state of the art attractions, Lee-Hines Field offers a traditional setting for college baseball at an affordable price which includes shaded seating provided by an overhead awning and a few delicious options at the concession stand. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions experience at Lee-Hines field covers the basics for an affordable price and also provides a few tasty items sure to satisfy the cravings of most fans in attendance. Quality and Variety of Food Options. The ballpark favorites at Lee-Hines include hot dogs ($2), nachos ($4), and a BBQ burger ($3). Snacks include peanuts ($2), candy ($1) and gum ($1). But don’t settle for the basic fare. Southern offers a few exceptional concessions options like a bowl of jambalaya and items fresh off the grill like the hot sausage poboy and BBQ pork steak or leg quarter. One of the fan favorites is the Wings and Fries combo for $6. Any of the entree items can be turned into a combo for $4.50 which includes fries and a 20oz soda. Variety of Drink Options. Lee-Hines concessions serve bottled Coca-Cola products for $2. Recommendation. While the wings are sure to please when available, give the hot sausage poboy a try. Though the term “poboy” is used very loosely here (it’s more of a sausage dog), the sausage is very spicy and tasty. Atmosphere 2 Lee-Hines Field provides Southern Jaguar baseball a traditional on-campus college baseball atmosphere. While it’s short of bells and whistles, you’ll get to enjoy local college talent while ditching the sun under shade provided by an overhead awning. Stadium Aesthetics. Lee-Hines Field utilizes its corner of the Southern University campus to the fullest. The first baseline is pressed up against the Harding Blvd overpass, which makes it difficult to fit in seating around the backstop. The main grandstand starts behind home plate and wraps around towards third base. While this impacts the view some, the overhead awning makes up for it. Even though Louisiana has a strong baseball culture, hot Louisiana days can sure make the trip to the ballpark a struggle. Hiding from that heat under the awning goes a long way to improve the overall atmosphere at Lee-Hines. The ballpark features a natural grass surface. Tracks sit just beyond the outfield wall, and a couple of trains will typically pass through during the game. In-Game Promotions and Entertainment. Music is piped in between innings. Outside of that, there’s not much going on outside of the baseball game. If you are traveling with family that aren’t baseball purists, be sure plan ways to keep them busy during the game. Seat Location Recommendations.Look for a seat in the main grandstand near the top of the bleachers. The bottom sections still catch a good amount of sun, but the upper portions typically stay under the shade of the awning. Neighborhood 2 Lee-Hines field is located in the southeast corner Southern University next to the F.G. Clark Center and A.W. Mumford Stadium on the northside of Baton Rouge. While the campus is cozy and there are a couple of attractions to visit while in town, you’ll want to head south towards Baton Rouge for dining and entertainment outside of the game. Where to Eat. As the capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge has plenty to offer when it comes to restaurants and attractions. Considering Southern is on the northside of town, we’ll focus on a few spots to visit a little closer towards the campus. About 3.5 miles southeast of Southern, you’ll find some of the best seafood in town at Tony’s Seafood Market and Deli (5215 Plank Rd). Though there isn’t a place to sit and eat while on the inside, you can get delicious fried seafood platters, boudin, and boiled seafood to go. If you have a little time before the game starts, order a few pounds of their amazing boiled crawfish to eat tailgate style in the stadium parking lot. Other options to consider nearby are Bayou Cafe & Catering (5068 Airline Hwy) and the Chicken Shack (3928 Pawtucket St). Attractions & Entertainment. Continuing the focus on north Baton Rouge, Southern is located just a couple of miles from the BREC Baton Rouge Zoo. While it’s on the smaller side, a stop here before or after the game could more than make-up from the lack of non-baseball entertainment for your family. On campus, check-out the Southern University Museum of Art. A little closer into Baton Rouge is the Buddy Stewart Memorial & Museum. Though not necessarily a “north” Baton Rouge attraction, it fits in well with the historical culture of the Southern campus. Locally referred to as “Buddy Stewart’s Rock Shop,” the store served the area for over thirty years as one of the few minority owned music stores in town. Where to Stay. Again, there’s plenty of lodging in downtown Baton Rouge, however, you’ll find several closer options on the north side near the airport. Check-out the Spring Hill Suites (7980 Howell Blvd). Fans 1 Typical Jaguar baseball crowds are small and loyal. While it’s obvious baseball isn’t the crown jewel of Southern athletics, you’ll find a friendly home crowd of primarily family and friends of the players along with a few long-time supporters of the program.. Typical Attendance. Expect an average crowd of about 100-150 for the usual SWAC weekend series. If you are attending while the Jaguars face-off against a local in-state program (such as Southeastern Louisiana, UNO, or Loyola of N.O.), expect a slightly larger and more dynamic crowd. Despite being a dominant force in SWAC baseball throughout the years, attendance has remained relatively low (which is common throughout the conference). Crowd Noise & Engagement. Southern fans get into the game during bad calls and big plays. There’s not much fanfare outside of that and there’s not much to be said in regards to traditions or chants.Expect a relaxed atmosphere in a traditional setting. Access 4 Lee-Hines Stadium is very accessible. Located a couple of miles from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport and just a few miles north of downtown Baton Rouge, you shouldn’t run into many problems getting to and from the stadium. Transit to and from Stadium. If you’re coming into Baton Rouge from I-10, you’ll want to head north on I-110. Take exit 6 towards Southern University, turning left onto Harding Blvd (Hwy 408). Harding runs directly to Lee-Hines Field. As you cross the over-pass just beyond Hwy 61, you’ll see the ballpark on your right before the F.G. Clark Activity Center. Though traffic on I-10 and I-110 can be a major headache at times, the northside location of Lee-Hines affords you several alternate routes when the freeways are jammed. Parking. Parking is free around the stadium. Considering that the stadium is adjacent to the F.G. Clark Center parking lot, there’s plenty of parking available. Ticketing & Gate Entry. As you approach the stadium from the parking lot, there is a single entrance next to the ticket booth. You shouldn’t have any problems with a wait to get your tickets and you’ll breeze through the entrance. Moving around the stadium. There’s plenty of room to move around once inside the stadium. The concourse between the concessions facility and the ballpark is very spacious. There’s also a concourse separating the grandstand and row of chair back seating next to the playing surface. Return on Investment 2 The cost of attending a Southern Jags game at Lee-Hines Field is very affordable. General admission is $5 for adults. While there seems to be some assigned seating, the spirit of the venue is fully general admission. Find a comfortable spot and it’s yours. While the price is certainly affordable, the overall investment may still not be of the highest value. There are several upgrades which could be made to the venue experience which could significantly raise the overall ROI. . Extras 2 Lee-Hines Field has a few “extras” which contribute to the overall game day experience. Chief among those is the excellent job done memorializing past accomplishments with the listing of conference championships on the outside of the grandstand. The Southern Jaguars baseball team continues to be a force in the SWAC. A bonus point is awarded here for the shade provided by the overhead awning. When the Louisiana heat is bearing down on you in late spring, finding shelter is essential.

Photos by Stephen Schmidt, Stadium Journey, Leslie Rouse, & Cheryl James Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Bear Stadium 2400 Bruce St Conway, AR 72034 Central Arkansas Bears website Bear Stadium website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 1,000 The UCA Way at Bear Stadium When it comes to its athletic facilities, the University of Central Arkansas certainly is not afraid to dance to its own beat. The school’s purple-and-gray-striped gridiron at Estes Stadium is Exhibit 1A. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially when it comes to Bear Stadium. The venue was built around a previously established baseball field to match the program’s rise in stature to Division I competition as a member of the Southland Conference. These welcomed oddities include a solid black outfield wall with not one single advertisement on it (the only ads are located on the scoreboard) for a nice clean look and an expansive picnic area along the first base side, in which kids can play catch and dogs can roam (on leashes). The picnic area also features a line of trees that provide shade on a sunny day while offering a fairly decent view of the action from a lawn chair. “I can’t really see the batter, but I can see everything else,” said Glenda Owens, while two of her grandkids sat beside her. “It’s really fan friendly. This is just the best. Nice shady place. The kids can play but I can still see what goes on.” Owens also had her radio nearby to hear the action on UCA radio (Her son, Steve, is the voice of Bears baseball on 93.1 KUCA). Food & Beverage 3 The stadium has one concession stand near the front gate that sells standard items ($2.50 for popcorn, $2 for nachos) with Pepsi products — although that is scheduled to change to Coke next semester. There is a sign that says no outside food or drink is allowed in the park, but that rule does not pertain to a family picnic area along the first base side. Many fans opt to take advantage of the picnic tables that are located behind the visitor’s dugout. On the day I was there, a group consisting mostly of parents of UCA players had a whole spread covering a picnic table with bratwursts and various versions of the Cajun delicacy boudain on a large grill. “It’s hard to imagine what the park looked like before this,” said Clay Rougeau, who was in charge of the operation and has a son, Nick, on the team. “Everything has been improved since Coach [Allen] Gum got here.” Atmosphere 3 With a lack of signage on the outfield walls, one’s eye drifts to the giant American flag sitting slightly to the left of dead center. Porches are located in the left and right field corners that provide a unique view of the action. Fans can rent out the porches, but they also are accessible without paying admission at the main gate. There are a few trees in the outfield, but most of the view from the grandstands consists of parking lots and residential areas. The purple scoreboard in left field features an old-fashioned clock for a nice touch. When looking at the field, it might take you a minute to figure out that the infield and home plate dirt is actually painted on the GeoGreen artificial surface. The only real infield dirt can be found on the pitcher’s mound. Real grass begins about a foot north of the painted-on dirt. Although it’s a bit odd, it’s not that distracting during a game. Close to 90 percent of the stands are covered by an overhang, so most fans can keep the sunscreen in their cars. Those who have to face the sun are primarily picnic area participants who are not underneath the row of trees. There are no issues with sight lines in the grandstand itself, except for a row of bleachers at the top of the concourse where poles to support the roof are located. The one downside to the grandstand, though, is that fans have no choice but to view the game through the netting. Neighborhood 2 The neighborhood is pleasant and safe, but there’s not much going on when the students are away (the Shell station was closed when I was there) — and Conway is in a dry county. There’s one known pizza place, Bear’s Den Pizza at 235 Farris Road, which sits across the street from the campus and has some UCA paraphernalia on the walls. Be warned: The place does not open until 3 p.m. daily. One popular restaurant for townies and visitors alike is Stoby’s, located a 5-minute drive at 805 Donaghey Ave. The place serves an addictive award-winning cheese dip with tortilla chips and a variety of sandwiches. During lunchtime, it’s best to go through the drive-thru, but you must call your order in ahead of time. Definitely worth the stop. Downtown Conway is also a quick drive from the stadium down Caldwell Street, which features more shopping and eateries. Fans 4 The fans, a majority of whom dress in either Bears’ gear or colors of purple and black, are very knowledgeable and friendly — and engaged in the action. In fact, at one point, a middle-aged female fan came up to the press box to get a better understanding of a controversial interference call on a play. Patrons are vocal when they want to be. When the Bears are doing well, don’t be surprised to hear a couple of cowbells ringing in the stands. Given that most students had left campus a week ago from when the game took place that I attended (in spring 2013), it was impressive to see how full the stands were. Access 5 The stadium is located at the northern end of the UCA campus, which features the same dark brick theme. Bear Stadium shares a parking lot with the Farris Center basketball venue, but also has a number of parking lots all around the park. All nearby parking is free. There are only one set of bathrooms, but they are fairly large with circular trough-like sinks. There was never a line to use the restrooms. An elevator behind the home plate area provides easy handicapped access to the wide concourses at the top of the grandstand. Return on Investment 4 At $6 for general admission and $8 for reserved chairback seats, a game at Bear Stadium remains a fairly good value — especially on a hot and sunny day, given the large overhang roof and the line of trees in the picnic area to keep fans cool. Season ticket holders take up a majority of the 100-plus chair backs, but there are usually a few remaining on a walk-up basis. They are very wide and comfortable and worth the $2 splurge. . Extras 4 One point is awarded for having a souvenir table ($10 for T-shirts, $18 for tank tops, $20 for hats), a rarity in these parts at comparable schools. One point is given for having no ads in the outfield. The black metal wall is a refreshing change and a hitter’s dream. One point is awarded for very friendly staff and fans. Everyone is very welcoming to out-of-towners. One point is given for the shady grove and picnic area along the first base side — and for allowing (leashed) pets inside.

Photos by Paul Donaldson, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.71 Magnolia Field Fannie Lou Hammer St Itta Bena, MS 38941 Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils website Magnolia Field website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 200 Baseball in the Valley Magnolia Field is home to Delta Devil baseball on the campus of Mississippi Valley State University. The atmosphere at Magnolia Field is cozy and friendly. Most of the fans in attendance are family or friends of the players, with a couple of staunch Delta Devils Athletics supporters. Located in West Mississippi, you’ll likely only find yourself at the ballpark if you are following your favorite SWAC baseball team on a road trip or are family of one of the players. The ballpark is humble, doesn’t have concessions, but won’t cost you thing since admission is free. Food & Beverage 0 Make sure plans are made for snacks and drinks prior to heading out to Magnolia Field, because there are no concessions. With that said, you can bring in your own refreshments without any hassle. Atmosphere 1 Magnolia Field is a small and humble home ballpark for the Delta Devils. The stadium consists of three small sets of bleachers which flank a press box which lies directly behind home base. A small tent is erected near the third base dugout where a few fans seek the shade along the fence in the comfort of their tailgate chairs. A black chain link fence set atop a small red brick wall separates the seats behind home plate from the playing field. A small scoreboard sits beyond the right field fence providing limited information. The natural grass playing field shows signs of wear and could use some TLC. The outfield wall is a tall black chain link fence. Neighborhood 2 The city of Itta Bena is home to Mississippi Valley State University and Magnolia Field. The ballpark is adjacent to Rice-Totten Field. The campus of MVSU is a comfortable and safe environment to enjoy a baseball game. It’s located a few miles away from Itta Bena, which doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of restaurants and attractions. Larry’s Fish House and the Capricorn Internet Cafe are places to eat, if you’re dedicated to eating in the area. Otherwise, you might find more options in Indianola or Greenwood, both about a 20 minute drive from the campus. Fans 1 College baseball is not a very popular sport among most SWAC institutions and this trend is no different at The Valley. Typical crowds can usually be counted on both hands and rarely top 100. Fans in attendance are usually friends and family of the players with a few strong supports of Delta Devil athletics. Access 4 Itta Bena is accessible off I-55 in west Mississippi via Highway 82. Once you arrive on campus, Magnolia Field is just past the football stadium. A parking lot past a dorm allows ample free parking. The seating area is just a short walk from there. Considering that attendance is free, getting into the stadium is a breeze due to there being no need to purchase or pick up tickets. A restroom facility is located near the parking lot just beyond left field. Return on Investment 3 Return on investment is a mixed bag. Considering there’s literally no cost in attending the game, it’s hard to assess any type or return on an investment you don’t have to make. However, unless you are a loyal follower of MVSU athletics, there’s little return on your time investment either in driving out to the ballpark or watching the game. . Extras 1 While most venues offer some type of “extra” component which sets it apart from other experiences, the atmosphere at Magnolia Field is bare bones. The “One Team One Valley” sign on the dugout adds some fanfare to an otherwise stale environment.

Photo by Kirsten Richards, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.46 Jamsil Baseball Stadium Jamsil 1-Dong, Songpa-gu Seoul, South Korea Doosan Bears website Jamsil Baseball Stadium website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 27,000 The Joy of Jamsil Stadium Jamsil Stadium is the home to two KBO (Korea Baseball Organization) teams – the Doosan Bears and the LG Twins. Home and away games are scheduled for the two teams with the stadium in mind – there are very few days over the season with no baseball at Jamsil Stadium, not counting the league’s Monday rest day. The Doosan Bears were inaugurated in January 1982 as the first team in the Korea Baseball Organization and have been playing since the league’s first game in March 1982. They have been league champions three times (1982, 1995, 2001). The Doosan Bears were one of the first teams to provide information about the team and the stadium in English and have a strong following in the expat community in Seoul. Jamsil is the biggest stadium in the KBO and fills up on weekends. Doosan has a passionate fan base – passionate enough to formally protest team decisions or lack thereof at the stadium – and seeing a game live can be a loud and intense experience. Jamsil is very easy to get to, very easy to navigate once you are there and the fans are energetic, loud and lots of fun. It’s a great experience. Food & Beverage 4 Fried chicken is the food of choice at baseball games in Korea. Jamsil Stadium supplies fried chicken via numerous KFC shopfronts around the stadium. Burger King and GS25 convenience stores are the other regular shopfront appearances throughout the stadium. There are also a couple of Dominos outlets. Outside the stadium is a raft of interesting Korean snacks and iced beer and soju (super-cheap Korean vodka) that you can take into the stadium with you. There are also more Burger King and KFC outlets, along with a Smoothie King, a Dominos, and a Dunkin Donuts. You are also welcome to bring anything from home that you might want inside the stadium. Umbrellas are a popular choice for protection from both the sun and the rain. The prices and proportions for food and drink are standard. Most meals are designed for two or three people at minimum. Cass and Hite are the available beers from GS25 and run at regular convenience shop prices – approximately 2000 won (about $2 USD) per can. There is a pop-up food court between the stadium and subway after the game and it’s worth stopping (if you can find a spot) for some jeon – the Korean chives-and-everything enormous pancake that you accompany with makgeolli, a fermented rice or wheat alcoholic drink that is pleasantly sour and absolutely refreshing when icy cold. Atmosphere 5 For those of us old enough to remember the 1988 Olympics, the main Olympic stadium is a surprisingly constant presence when outside the third base side of the stadium. Sadly it is not visible from inside the stadium. It is however, well worth a visit if you have time before the game. There is a steady and constant stream of people and noise around the stadium from about two hours before the game – pretty much from the moment the ticket window opens. Long queues form to take a turn in the pitching speed contest and friends are constantly meeting up to go to the game together. There is really enjoyable people watching to be had prior to a game, and plenty of pop-up outdoor restaurants and bars to choose from. A wander around the entire outside of the stadium will bring you to a statue of the Doosan mascot which is a very popular photo-opportunity for families. You will also find the main team shops right next to each other, but the shop will only be open if the team is playing at the stadium on the day. Both shops are open for LG Twins vs Doosan Bears derbies, but otherwise it is one or the other. The atmosphere inside the game is electric, especially if Doosan is winning. Chanting and cheering carries on regardless of the score, but the crowd is definitely more excited when the team is doing well. When the crowd is in full voice, the echo bouncing back from the other side of the field booms in your chest and your throat. A seat above and in sight of the cheering platform is the most enjoyable spot for people seeking the experience of a Korean baseball game. They run from 10,000 to 12,000 won (approximately $9.75 – $11.75 USD). A spot a little below the cheering platform, or spending more money on a table or VIP seat might suit someone more interested in the game and the game alone. The crowd in the cheap outfield seats joins in with a lot of the chanting, but can quickly fall out of sync with the infield led by the cheerleaders. The seating at Jamsil is tight, with very little room between the rows. Given the steepness of the pitch in the upper reaches of the stadium, it can often feel safer to vacate your seat altogether to allow people in and out of the row. Or be ready to catch falling humans when someone can’t navigate around your knee. It’s also worth keeping an eye on what’s happening behind you, as someone attempting to wobble past in the row above can end with very hot noodles sliding down your back, or a knee in your head. The premium seating has much more space and amenities such as tables, etc. The first base side really catches the sun and afternoon games and are unpleasantly hot as early as spring training. Throughout the height of summer, games start later in the evening but I would still avoid that side of the stadium if possible. The home team takes the third base side and this area is in the shade much earlier. The right field general admission seats are also shaded much earlier than the left field seats if you choose to sit in the outfield. The scoreboard is huge and easy to read from everywhere except the outfield seating. Doosan also produce a lot of their animations and introductions with English subtitles, so it is very easy to follow for the English speaking visitor. Neighborhood 4 There is an enjoyable amount of game-related activity in the area immediately surrounding the stadium prior to the game, but not as much happening if you were to visit in the morning. The Sports Complex Subway station has vendors selling baseball merchandise and memorabilia and there is another large shop selling gear from all of the KBO teams between the subway station and the stadium. After the game, you can take a very casual stroll to Sincheon – about a five minute walk heading left from the baseball stadium. The very nearest hotels to the stadium are here. They are mostly “love motels,” but there are some that are easier to book in advance and check-in prior to midnight. If you do get stuck without an accommodation, love motels are a life-saver – usually mid-range prices, all the amenities, super-clean and there’s always a room available. Sincheon is another one of Seoul’s very organized and contained nightlife districts – there are just a lot more batting cages open until the early hours of the morning in Sincheon than in other places. And there’s a lot more batting cages catering to left-handed hitters than elsewhere in the city. Restaurants and bars are open until very late in Sincheon and there are a lot of them. The streets are still full at 2am on a Friday night. There is also another baseball merchandise shop on Olympic-ro when walking toward Sincheon from the stadium. Fans 5 The Doosan fans at Jamsil are very welcoming and very happy to teach strangers the chants and songs to join in the cheering. When Doosan are playing at home, the team and the fans take the third base side. Doosan fans are very knowledgeable about their team and hold strong opinions on the actions of management. Access 4 Jamsil Stadium is located in the southern part of Seoul on subway line 2 (Outer circle line). It is four subway stops from the Dong Seoul bus station (one of the major bus stations in Seoul) and six subway stops from Gangnam. Exiting the subway at the Baseball Stadium exit will put you about 40 meters from the ticket office at the stadium. There are a large number of intra-city buses that go straight past the stadium as well as parking for approximately 2,500 cars over several parking lots near the stadium. As with the two other KBO stadiums accessible from Seoul’s huge subway system, subway is the cheapest, fastest and most enjoyable way to get to and from a game. Tickets are about 1,200 won (about $1.20 USD) each way. It is a much longer haul from Incheon International Airport, taking about 2 hours whether you go direct by bus 6008 or take the subway (lines A and 2, change at Hongik University Station). It’s about 45 minutes from central Seoul station to Jamsil via the subway. Accommodations and some nightlife can also be found at Coex, the huge Seoul Exhibition centre accessible from Samseong station one stop towards Gangnam, plus the accommodation and nightlife around Gangnam station. Getting to and from the stadium is very easy, but moving around inside the stadium is a little trickier. The space between the rows of seating is very tight. The concourse spaces away from field are large, light and airy, but the concourse facing the field is narrow and there are huge steps from the throughways down to the concourse. These steps are very difficult to navigate for the movement impaired, but toddlers and children have great fun with them. Return on Investment 5 Going to see the Doosan Bears at Jamsil Stadium is great value. For the price of a movie ticket you get 3+ hours of non-stop interactive fun. Regardless of which way your tastes lean, there is food and beverage to satisfy every craving. Doosan fans are very welcoming and it is very easy to get into the swing of cheering and chanting for the home team. . Extras 4 Jamsil has a lot of extras for the family with kids that aren’t that keen on the baseball or too young to concentrate for the duration of a game. There is a playroom that offers a child-minding service and a PC room in which to abandon social-media addicted teenagers. Smoking is forbidden in the main area of the stadium and the smoking rooms are nicely sealed off from the main sections. The smell of cigarette smoke never intrudes in the internal or external concourses. The presence of the Olympic stadium cannot be overstated. It is really noticeable from most places outside of the stadium. The stadium is also very close to the Han River. Final Thoughts So much more could have been done to take advantage of the location of the stadium. Talks with LG and Doosan have been underway for years to build a new stadium, but there has yet to be any commitment made. For now, this is a great place to go and see baseball.

Photo by Jason Bartel, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 MacGregor Park 5225 Calhoun Houston, TX 77021 Texas Southern Tigers website MacGregor Park website Year Opened: 1925 Capacity: Tiger Baseball by the Bayou A member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Texas Southern baseball is finding success despite playing their games in a city park. MacGregor Park is a no-frills college baseball experience, but is also home to a team that won the SWAC in 2015 and 2017, sending the Tigers to Regional play in each of those seasons. So even though it may not be a high-end fan experience, the baseball is still quite enjoyable. Located in Southeast Houston, MacGregor Park is a quiet little area nestled in next to Brays Bayou. If you’re looking to go to a park and catch a little NCAA baseball at the same time, this is the perfect place to do so. Food & Beverage 0 This is a bring-your-own-food-and-beverage experience. There are picnic tables in the park that you can set up and enjoy a meal on, or you can just bring whatever you want with you into the bleachers. There is no security so as long as you’re abiding by City of Houston rules; otherwise you’re good. Atmosphere 2 There’s something about being able to hear every little conversation happening around you that makes baseball like this so entertaining. Add to that having the ping of the bat right in your face, plus getting to listen to the players and coaches throughout the game, and you have yourself a pretty unique experience. The whole experience can really remind you of a quaint Little League game. The chain link backstop and baseline fences are lined with wooden bleachers, and there are two small speakers attached to a microphone and computer for your in-game entertainment. No shade, no amenities, just you and the baseball. There are songs played on the speakers, and the Texas Southern players have walk-up songs, so it’s not like it’s totally silent at MacGregor Park. There are sometimes even in-game bingo contests going on, so you can find some side activities to fill the dead time. My recommendation is to either bring your own chair and sit somewhere down the foul line, or bring a pad of some sort and sit anywhere in the bleachers. There is no real advantage to sitting in any particular spot. Neighborhood 2 There’s not a lot happening in the immediate area around MacGregor Park, but you aren’t too far away from the University of Houston, where you’ll be able to find more. Also downtown Houston is only about a ten minute drive away, as well as the Medical and Museum Districts. If you’re looking for something to eat that’s close, you’re probably going to want to check out Ray’s BBQ Shack. It’s just a block away from MacGregor Park, and is a very good food option to either eat in or pick up and take to the game with you. Alternatively, The Address is a very popular bar located on Old Spanish Trail right next to Highway 288, about five minutes from the park. A short drive away from MacGregor Park is the University of Houston’s main campus, with the actual Texas Southern University campus just a little bit further away from the ballpark. But if you’re looking to make a day of it, you’re probably better off going across 288 to the Museum District. Here you’ll find 19 different museums, so there’s something for everyone. You can also visit the Houston Zoo in this area, or downtown Houston is just another ten minutes or so drive north. Old Spanish Trail, which is the main road that goes to MacGregor Park, eventually makes its way near NRG Stadium, home of the Houston Texans, so there are plenty of hotels that are several miles away on this particular road. But if you want something a little bit closer and a little bit cheaper, there are Mainstay Suites, Econo Lodge, and Summit Inn, all located at Old Spanish Trail and Hwy 288. Fans 3 With this particular crowd, there’s not many people here that aren’t either friends or family of the players. But this also makes the small number of fans at these games passionate, and gives a very family feel to the game. Not to mention the actual family picnics happening and players making their way out to the cars in between innings. Access 4 It’s very easy to get to this stadium, and the entirety of MacGregor Park offers plenty of free parking for those wishing to attend the game. Just be aware that if you park too close to home plate you might have your windshield smashed by a foul ball. If you don’t want to drive, there are also METRO bus stops all around the park. It’s best to use their website to plan out how to do that in a timely fashion. Return on Investment 3 There are no tickets. Free general admission and no security lines means you can bring your food with you, or if you need to do work you can even set up a laptop. And with the bleachers just sitting around behind the backstop, moving around is very easy if you’re wanting to get a different vantage point during the game. It’s free, and you can bring your own food, all while watching Division-1 college baseball. So there’s certainly nothing to complain about on the price of attending Texas Southern baseball games. And if you’re okay with the wood bleachers or can bring your own chair, then you’re certainly going to be fine here. . Extras 1 I’m going to give an extra to the porta-potty sitting out in the park behind the dugout that serves as the players’ only bathroom choice during a game – it’s certainly unique. Final Thoughts MacGregor Park is not the place to go if you’re expecting luxury or want a unique baseball experience – this is a place you go if you want the simplicity of baseball while being located just minutes from the center of one of the biggest cities in the country. There’s a certain charm to it, but don’t come without being prepared.

Photos by Eric Bynum and Kirsten Richards, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Jamsil Baseball Stadium Jamsil 1-dong, Songpa-gu Seoul, South Korea LG Twins website Jamsil Baseball Stadium website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 27,000 LG Twins at Jamsil Baseball Stadium Jamsil Baseball Stadium was completed in 1982 and hosted Olympic baseball games (it was only an exhibition sport) when Seoul hosted the games in 1988. It has housed two professional teams since its gates opened in the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. This is one of the greatest rivalries in sport in Korea since they share a city and a stadium. Both teams are owned by huge Korean corporations and have legions of devote fans. The stadium is one of the larger ones in Korea holding 27,000 people. It is a part of the Jamsil Sports Complex that sits next to Seoul Olympic Stadium. Food & Beverage 4 One of the reasons I like this stadium is the access to western food. Around the stadium grounds on the outside sit several western restaurants including Burger King and KFC. However, during the 2012 season there was a new addition in Smoothie King. This adds a lot for me as now you can have a nice cold smoothie on a hot summer night. In addition to the western food available, you can find the traditional Korean food that is available at any ballpark. Foods such as gimbap, mandu, ramyeon, deokbokki, and sausage on a stick are available. The Korean food is always a cheap choice and typically the food will be decent if not very good. The greatest part of Korean baseball is the ability to bring in any food that you prefer. There are no restaurants within a short walk from the stadium, so pack what you want before heading to the stadium. Or you can pick some chicken or other treats up from the vendors outside the stadium. Drinking is a big deal at baseball games in Korea. Korean beer is very cheap no matter where you buy it. You can pick up a single can for around $2-$3 and it is readily available everywhere inside and outside of the stadium. Other drinks will be available as well such as water, Gatorade, Pocari Sweat (a Japanese Gatorade type drink), and soda. These will all range from $1-$3 as well making your trip to the park a cheap affair. Atmosphere 5 Games in Korea always provide a great atmosphere since the fans are so great. If you want a different experience, get there early and grab a seat behind where one of the cheerleaders will be. That way you’ll be right in the thick of it all. Cheerleaders will be leading the fans on both sides of the game all night long. They love to cheer and they do it well with special chants for certain players. The scoreboards are nice in Korea typically and the one at Jamsil Stadium is no exception. It is located in center field and it is huge. It is large enough to show the lineups of both teams fully on the scoreboard so you always know who is coming up to bat. It also keeps track of stats such as pitch counts and the speed of each pitch. The only downside is if you sit in parts of the outfield it will be difficult to see. Seating at Jamsil Stadium is general admission for the outfield. There is reserved seating in the infield seats. If you purchase a ticket for the outfield, you will not be able to get to the infield seats. This might be a problem if you want to take photographs of the stadium from different angles. The seats in the infield are reserved and vary in price, but I have never had a problem roaming the entire infield area, except the VIP section. No one was ever there to check my ticket to see if I was in the right section, but your experience may vary. Neighborhood 3 Jamsil Baseball Stadium is part of a bigger sports complex. There isn’t much around except other sporting arenas. However, if you have the time, walk over to the Olympic Stadium to see where many of the events were held including the opening and closing ceremonies in 1988. It is across the parking lot from the baseball stadium. Luckily it is on the subway line making other parts of Seoul easily accessible. If you want to head out after the game for a drink, don’t worry about the ballpark’s neighborhood. Instead, head down the subway line just a few stops and get off at Gangnam (where you can really do it “Gangnam Style”). There you will find an endless line of restaurants, shops, and bars both Korean and western alike. Fans 5 Fans of LG and Doosan are second to none. Typically the fans of the visiting team will show up in force which can lead to a sort of cheer off between the two sides. You will never be at a loss for something to cheer for. Korean baseball fans are very passionate. They love to use their thundersticks (long balloon noise makers) and they love to cheer and chant to help their favorite team to victory. One of the better times you can have is when LG and Doosan play each other. They share the stadium and both teams have loyal fans. During these games the fans will be even more raucous and loud. It’s definitely something worth seeing. Access 4 The stadium is located on the Seoul subway line which makes it very accessible. The stadium is located on line 2 of the subway. Take it to Sports Complex Station and take exit number 5 and the stadium will be right in front of you. There are many city buses that stop around the stadium. You can use any of the following buses. Blue buses (301, 360, 361, 362, 363, or 730), green buses (11-3, 11-6, 917, 2225, 3217, 3218, 3411, 3412, 3422, 3414, 3417, 3415, or 3314), or the yellow 41 will all take you to or very close to the stadium. Access around the stadium isn’t as easy. As mentioned before, you cannot move to the infield section with a ticket for the outfield. So decide before purchasing where you would like to see the game from. Restrooms are plentiful and there is rarely a long line. Return on Investment 5 Korean baseball in general is a great investment. Ticket prices are very inexpensive ranging from about $7-$15 depending on if you want an outfield seat or infield seat. Prices run all the way up to about $50 for seats directly behind home plate. What makes it so affordable is not only the low ticket prices but the fact you can bring anything into the stadium from home. Add in the great fan interaction, the high level of baseball, and you are looking at a great return on your investment. It will be hard not to go away entertained in some form or fashion from a Korean baseball game. . Extras 2 There aren’t many extras here at Jamsil Stadium. It was built 30 years ago and doesn’t have a lot of the modern conveniences. There isn’t even a lot around the stadium except for a few statues and venues from the 1988 Olympics. Jamsil Baseball Stadium is there for baseball and not much else. People come to see the action on the field. Thankfully what happens on the field and in the stands is worth the trip. Final Thoughts Even though I am not a huge fan of either team, I really like Jamsil Baseball Stadium. Overall it’s nice to see a game here. Don’t concern yourself with attractions other than the game itself and you won’t come away disappointed. However, it was nice seeing the Olympic Stadium next door. It is not too often that most people, myself included, get to see a stadium where the Olympics was held. If you want nightlife, head down the subway line just a few stops and head to Gangnam. You can find all the nightlife you want here.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 J.L. Johnson Stadium 81st St & Lewis Ave Tulsa, OK 74171 Oral Roberts Golden Eagles website J.L. Johnson Stadium website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 2,418 J.L. Johnson Stadium J.L. Johnson Stadium is the home of the Oral Roberts University Golden Eagles baseball program in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The ORU Golden Eagles are an NCAA Division 1 program and a member of the Summit League Conference. J.L. Johnson Stadium was opened on March 6, 1978, as Oral Roberts defeated Southeastern Oklahoma 7-6. The ballpark has an AstroTurf infield with a natural grass outfield and a seating capacity of 2,418 spectators. The ballpark dimensions are 330ft down both lines, with 375ft power alleys and 400ft to centerfield. The ballpark has made improvements over the years such as in 2008 when a 20,000 square-foot facility was added, including offices for coaches and workout facilities for players; the following year, the outfield wall was replaced with the current wall. In addition, J.L. Johnson Stadium features the Grand Slam room, which is an air-conditioned room on the right field foul line where members can watch the game. The park has hosted three NCAA Regionals and 18 conference tournaments, including the last 3 Summit League Tournaments. Food & Beverage 2 J.L. Johnson Stadium has one concessions outlet for the entire park, but it is enough for small crowds. However, any large crowds will make this one stand keep fans spending more time at the concessions than in their seats. However, being the only concessions option inside J.L Johnson Stadium, the variety of the food is non-existent – this will help process fans through the line faster, as the only options are beverages, popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, and nachos. The prices aren’t outrageous, though, as hot dogs and nachos are $4, pretzels cost $3.50, popcorn is $3, and the candy is $2.All Pepsi product beverages cost $3, while bottled water and Gatorade are $3.50.There are no alcohol sales inside J.L Johnson Stadium. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere can be tricky when it comes to evaluating these small enrollment schools. There isn’t a must-see atmosphere at ORU games; the crowds just aren’t large enough to create that type of excitement. And while the fans that are in attendance here are very good, they can only be labeled as family, friends, or alumni. These fans are baseball fans that create a good atmosphere, but by the good atmosphere, I mean a basic baseball atmosphere of cheers when appropriate, and boos when necessary. The in-game entertainment is as simple as any baseball game played across the country. There are music and games played between innings, the famous 7th inning stretch, and Sweet Caroline being played on the PA system in the 8th inning. The scoreboard and field are perfect, but the rest of the ballpark is just basic. The ballpark could use a little upgrading, but then again, the problem being the lack of fans doesn’t help. The overall experience is a basic baseball atmosphere on a beautiful campus, creating a relaxing way to spend the day. Neighborhood 3 Oral Roberts is a private Evangelical liberal arts university that has an enrollment of just under 4,000 students. The campus is in a neighborhood 6 miles south of downtown Tulsa. The immediate area surrounding ORU’s campus has various restaurants, such as Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Johnny Rocket’s, Thai Village, and Tres Amigos Mexican Grill and Cantina being the closest places (on the south side of campus). First Watch-Tulsa is also an interesting brunch place off South Lewis Avenue, and if you travel on the north side along 71st Street there is Cajun Ed’s, Hebert’s Specialty Meats, Mazzio’s, and Kai Burmese Cuisine, as well as plenty of fast food restaurants. Lodging near the campus can be found across the street at the Crowne Plaza-Tulsa Southern Hills or the Marriott Tulsa Hotel-Southern Hills, or the River Spirit Casino-Resort. Speaking of the resort, the casino is the main attraction near campus, but another is the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, located on 71st Street. For avid golf fans, ORU is near the Southern Hills Country Club, host to 15 major championships since 1946. ORU’s campus itself has a beautiful setting, surrounded by grass, trees, and fountains, and the distance from downtown Tulsa is only 15 minutes, which opens up more restaurants, lodging, and attractions while you are in town. For any craft brewery fans, one place in downtown Tulsa that I enjoy is the Prairie Brewpub. Fans 2 The fact that Oral Roberts is a small university means that their alumni base is relatively small compared to the larger division 1 baseball programs. The attendance seems to be listed at 600 on average, but at the most recent game I attended there were closer to 200 fans. The fans were spirited and loud given the size of the crowd, however, and they showed that they were into the game by rising to the occasion several times during the contest. The visiting contingent had an impressive showing as well, and both teams’ fans seemed to feed off the other group. Golden Eagle fans are dedicated, but the issue is that there were too few of them to fill up the 2,000-seat ballpark; the crowd here is made up of about 90 percent of families, friends, alumni, and children. Access 4 J.L. Johnson Stadium is on the campus of Oral Roberts University; Oral Roberts University is located east of the Arkansas River between East 81st Street South and South Lewis Avenue in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The stadium is across from the Learning Resources Center behind the school’s basketball arena, Mabee Center. There is plenty of free parking around the stadium, but the ORU campus is a bit difficult to navigate, so it’s best to enter on University Drive off East 81st South. The campus is about 6 miles from downtown Tulsa, so the best way is to take I-75 South to the 71st Street east exit, then follow 71st for approximately 3 miles to the intersection of 71st and Lewis. Then turn right at the stoplight onto Lewis, and follow Lewis for 1/4 mile until you come to 81st Street. Take a left onto 81st, then another left onto University after the Mabee Center, then follow that road around to J.L. Johnson Stadium. Or, another way to find the ballpark is by a line of sight – University Ave off 81st South is across from the 2 tall towers of the Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, which was once operated by Oral Roberts University. Once at the stadium access is easy, as the walkways and the two ramps are big enough to support the crowd size; the seating areas are at the top of the ramps. Return on Investment 4 The overall return on investment is top-notch, as a trip to J.L. Johnson Stadium won’t be heavy on your wallet. The free parking and programs, along with the low concessions prices, would seem to offset any ticket prices. Yet, Oral Roberts ticket prices are well within the price of top Division 1 Baseball programs. At the cheapest end, the general admission price is $9 and located along the baselines, while the reserved is $13 behind home plate, and the couple rows of box seats are $16. A game at J.L. Johnson Stadium would be a good return for fans looking for an affordable sporting event. . Extras 1 The overall setting of the ballpark is simple, yet the talent of Division 1 baseball gives fans a great way to see top talented baseball players. Final Thoughts The recent trend of having the Summit League Tournament held at J.L. Johnson Stadium shows that the ballpark is highly thought of as a college baseball destination in the post-season. In addition, the ballpark is close to several lodging options, has easy access, and can be a perfect setting for baseball. Lastly, Oral Roberts has a competitive baseball program that can pique a baseball fan’s interest – combine these elements, and a trip to Oral Roberts University to watch baseball at J.L. Johnson Stadium is well worth the visit.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Tal Anderson Field 2850 S 67th St Omaha, NE 68106 Omaha Mavericks website Tal Anderson Field website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 1,500 Tal Anderson Field Tal Anderson Field is home to the Omaha Mavericks of the Summit League. Anderson Field opened on March 5, 2021, in a game which saw the Mavericks drop a 10-3 decision to fellow Omaha team, the Creighton Blue Jays. The venue is named after Tal Anderson, a longtime supporter of the program and a former catcher on the team. The field is located directly next to Connie Claussen Field, home of the Mavericks softball team. The stadiums share part of the facility, which include the restrooms and concession areas. Prior to this venue, the baseball team played at numerous locations throughout Omaha. The stadium was completely financed through private money and is a huge upgrade from the prior venues the team has called home. Food & Beverage 3 The ballpark is cashless, so be sure and bring a card. The menu here isn’t extensive. There’s everything you would expect and nothing you wouldn’t expect. That being said, the prices here are worth at least an extra star in this category. Food options range from $2.50-$3. Your choices are hot dogs, brats, nachos, chips, pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, and candy. Drinks are $2.50 and your choices are Pepsi products (bottles), coffee, hot chocolate, water, and Gatorade. Beer tallboys run $7 and include Bud, Bud Light, Busch Light, Blue Moon, and Leinenkugel’s. Atmosphere 4 There is one entrance, in the right field corner. Upon getting to the top of the steps, you get a great view of the entire park. Stadium seats run from dugout to dugout, with grass berms from the dugouts to foul poles and part of the outfield. The lone concession area and press box sit behind home plate along with the restrooms. A nicely groomed synthetic surface gives the field an aesthetically pleasing look. The video board sits beyond the right-center field wall and is visible from everywhere in the park. The simplicity of the layout really adds to the experience here. As typical, there are some on-field promotions throughout the game. A nice touch here is the sound system. The walk-up music and other audio can sometimes bombard the senses. Here, the music is certainly loud enough but hardly overwhelming. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark is in an area that houses other sporting venues, medical centers, some residential spots, etc. As such, there isn’t much to walk to if you are looking for food or drinks before or after the game, but there are some options within a short drive. The closest food options would be either Mai Thai Omaha or Jimi D’s which serves both Italian and traditional American food. For drinks and traditional bar food, head north on 72nd St and stop by the Pipeline Tavern. For lodging, there are also a few options, mostly near the 72nd St exit off I-80. Your best bets here are the Doubletree by Hilton and the Courtyard Marriott. Be sure and check the schedule while you are in town. You may be able to head to downtown Omaha to catch a Creighton Blue Jays game at TD Ameritrade Park (home of the College World Series), or head out to Werner Park to take in an Omaha Stormchasers (AAA) game. Fans 3 The Mavs have a decent following. The stands weren’t near full, but those there were loud and seem to be regular attendees as everyone appeared to know each other. They knew the players and sensed the important parts of the game. Access 4 There is a clear bag policy in effect here. The ballpark is located just east of I-80 in Omaha. Take the 72nd St exit and you’ll be there in a couple minutes. Be sure to have your GPS as there aren’t signs directing you from all directions. Upon arrival, there is plenty of parking across the street. From there, a quick walk up some stairs and you are at the park. Once inside, getting around is no problem whatsoever, the restrooms are more than sufficient for a typical crowd, and although there is only one concession stand, when there is a line, it moves very quickly. Return on Investment 4 The tickets are on the high side for college baseball. Adults are $15 and kids can get in for $7. You can buy premium seating for $20 but the stadium has great seats throughout, so it is worth saving a few bucks on tickets. Parking is free and with the low concession prices, attending a game here is a really good deal. . Extras 2 If you schedule things right, you can see a doubleheader since the baseball and softball teams share the same area. A fun challenge for kids, if you get a foul ball, you can bring it back for free ice cream. Final Thoughts Tal Anderson Field is a massive step up from the many different venues the team used to play at. There is nothing fancy here, but this is a really nice and relaxing place to watch a college baseball game. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram: @stadiumjwriter

Photo by Sean Rowland, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.00 Jack Kaiser Stadium 8000 Utopia Pkwy Jamaica, NY 11439 St. John's Red Storm website Jack Kaiser Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 3,500 The Home of St. John's Baseball When the name St.John’s comes up, the immediate thought in the sports world turns to basketball. But there is another sport in which the school has historically seen success. The Northeast US is not exactly a hot spot for college baseball, so it is surprising to some that the Johnnies have made the NCAA Tournament 34 times, with six of those appearances ending in a trip to the College World Series. Their home field is relatively new, as it was built in 2000 and originally known as The Ballpark at St.John’s. The school honored former athlete, coach and longtime AD, Jack Kaiser, with a renaming ceremony in 2007. The all-bleacher facility seats 3,500, which is unusually large for the region. Despite the size and young age, the word stadium should be used loosely, as there are several aspects missing from a standard ballpark. Food & Beverage 0 Without counting the lonely vending machine for drinks, the most notable omission is food, as not a single area features concession goods for fans. At the game I attended, there was a campus event next to the stadium that had food tents, thus satisfying my hunger. Otherwise, fans should prepare to bring in food if they want to eat during the game. Atmosphere 2 Jack Kaiser Stadium can be looked at in a few different ways. Within the Northeast region and the Big East Conference, the ballpark is relatively large and features more variety than the norm. On the other hand, it is a very basic stadium that does not offer all that much more in comfort or design. Made up of entirely bleachers, seating is set up behind home plate and then down the first base line. These metal seats also include a red back. Down the third base side, a separate and more temporary set of stand-alone bleachers can be found. The outfield view is pedestrian, with a mix of trees and neighborhood housing. There is a scoreboard on the left field wall that at first glance seems simple enough with a box score. Between batters and during breaks, a nice video graphics package will run through various animations. Neighborhood 3 Queens is the easternmost borough of the five that make up New York City, and it is full of many smaller neighborhoods. St. John’s University is right on the imaginary border between Jamaica and Hillside, though most people associate the school with Jamaica. While the immediate surroundings aren’t bad (it’s almost even briefly suburban if arriving from the west on Union Turnpike), there is nothing that entices the visitor to stick around before or after the game. Along the main nearby road, a classic city neighborhood includes a row of adjoining stores and restaurants. For those looking to dine, the Sly Fox Inn and Turnpike Cafe are a few stops worth looking into. Outside of the immediate area, Queens is known for Flushing Meadows Corona Park, about a 15-minute drive away. In addition to being home to Citi Field and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the grounds include an Art Museum, Science Hall and the interesting remains of the 1964 World’s Fair. Fans 1 Each game features a couple hundred fans, and I counted close to 300 in attendance for the Saturday game I saw. The crowd is mixed between locals and students, and it is nice to see some of the kids supporting their school. A quiet atmosphere can be expected, with most of the cheers coming from the dugout and nearby families of those playing. Access 3 Getting to Jack Kaiser Stadium by car is surprisingly easy, thanks to a plethora of expressways and highways that reach the area. While the Grand Central Parkway is closest, I found coming from the Clearview Expressway (I-295) easiest, as Exit 2 leads right to Union Turnpike and St. John’s is just a mile or so down the road on the left. After entering either Gate 3 or Gate 4, a large parking lot can be seen in the athletic complex near the ballpark. Traffic at times is an issue, but weekend games are easier to drive to than during a weekday. Surprisingly for a city that relies heavily on mass transit, arriving by train or subway is not as simple. The closest station is about a 20-30 minute walk to the ballpark. Via subway, the end of the F train runs to Hillside Ave, while commuters via the Long Island Rail Road can stop at the Jamaica station. Neither are optimal choices, so driving to the game is best, if possible. Another confounding aspect of the stadium is the near complete lack of bathrooms. Only one single port-a-potty is available; tucked around a corner at the end of the seating. Not only is there just one bathroom, but the players also use it! You certainly don’t want to get caught in the way of a ballplayer scrambling for the facility in between innings. Return on Investment 3 St.John’s is one of only two Big East schools to charge admission for baseball, but the Johnnies also play in the second-largest conference ballpark. Tickets run $6 and parking is free. While this is not an ideal place for college baseball, it is at least a Division I game. . Extras 2 While the exterior design of the ballpark is nothing more than the guts of the bleachers, the front entrance is at least nicely decorated. Two large baseballs are incorporated into the sidewalk, and as the season turns to spring, red tulips bloom in many of the landscaped areas. There is also a nice entrance that includes an arched sign reading “Jack Kaiser Stadium. Another point for using the catchy song “New York Groove” after each run scored. Final Thoughts Jack Kaiser Stadium may be a bare-bones facility, but it is one of the larger college ballparks in the Northeast, and it is home to a perennially good St.John’s squad. A visit to the stadium offers a simple baseball experience, but be sure to eat and use the bathroom before arriving.

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Alfred D. Boyer Stadium Western Ave & University Dr Macomb, IL 61455 Western Illinois Fighting Leathernecks website Alfred D. Boyer Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 500 Baseball at Boyer Stadium Opened in 2006, Alfred D. Boyer Stadium is the minimal, yet functional home of the Western Illinois Fighting Leathernecks baseball team. The stadium’s namesake is a 1972 graduate of WIU, and donated $150,000 toward the facility’s construction. The seating capacity is an intimate 500 green plastic seats, found in seven rows behind the home plate area. Western Illinois competes in the Summit League. Since joining the league in 2008, the Leathernecks have generally finished closer to the bottom of the league than the top. In fact, it’s been since 1984 that Western Illinois has finished on top of the regular season standings, back when they were part of the now defunct Mid-Continent Conference. Fans have to go quite a ways back for any big names to come out of their baseball program. The Reuschel brothers, Paul and Rick, played in Macomb in the early 1970’s, while Gene Lamont was a member of the Leathernecks in the 1960’s. Food & Beverage 1 There is one small concession stand offering Coke products and bottled water ($2), along with assorted candy ($1). The 20-ounce bottled soda offerings include Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Powerade, and Dasani water. Don’t come hungry if you come to a Western Illinois game. Fans are free to bring their own food and drink, but no alcohol is permitted. It would be a wise decision to pack something to get you through the contest. Atmosphere 2 The game day presentation is very bare bones, so a lot of the atmosphere is dependent upon the game and the weather. This can be a great place to spend a warm spring day. There are no lights at Boyer Stadium, so you know you’ll be seeing a day game. There are seven rows of green plastic chairs behind home plate, with three rows in front of the concourse, and four additional rows behind the concourse. There are no cup holders, and the leg room is about average. There are a few picnic tables down the right field line, so fans may choose to pack a picnic and have a place to spread out their food. More fans choose to sit along the left field line, in part because the Western Illinois dugout is on that side. Here you’ll find fans with chairs or blankets that they brought with them, or fans who simply choose to stand along the fence. Also on the third base side, the school put out two sets of bean bag toss (also known as cornhole) for fans to use. This is an especially good distraction should you have young kids with you during your visit. The field itself is a dirt and grass field, which always adds to the fan experience (as opposed to an all-turf field). The outfield is fairly large with the distance down the left field line being 325 feet, and 330 feet to the right field foul pole. Straightaway center field is 395 feet to the wall, and the power alleys are 365 feet to left center, and 375 feet to right center. The scoreboard is less than adequate, as it doesn’t display hits or errors. There’s a simple line score, with the current balls, strikes, and outs as well as the number of the player at bat. A one sheet program is available along the first base side. If you like to keep score at the game, you’ll need to have your own scorecard as the program simply gives you each roster, the WIU schedule, and a few other odds and ends. Neighborhood 3 Boyer Stadium is located near the other Western Illinois athletic facilities including Western Hall and Hanson Field. It is about a two mile walk, or six minute drive to get to the quaint downtown Macomb. Chicks on the Square is a popular stop to pick up some of their “chicken lips,” which are essentially very large chicken tenders drenched in their exceptionally good Buffalo sauce. There are also a couple of TVs here, and a decent beer selection. Pag’s Pizza is also located in the Square. It’s a modest pizzeria serving only pizza, pasta, and pop. But their thin crust is really good, and may be the kind of thing that you want to order to go and take to the field with you. Fans 2 As is the case with many fan bases in the Midwest, you’ll find mostly family and friends at a Western Illinois game, along with a few students who decide to come out to watch a few innings. On the one hand, these fans really have a personal interest in the outcome, or at least a player. On the other hand, there aren’t a lot of them. This results in a fairly laid back, but pleasant atmosphere when seeing a Leathernecks baseball game. Access 3 There is some parking available along the left field side of Boyer Stadium, but it is also marked as student parking for the dormitory across the street. Several fans park here, and it doesn’t seem to be closely monitored, so if you can find a spot, you’ll probably be alright. Keep in mind though that these spots can easily be hit by foul balls, so park at your own risk. Parking is also available nearby at Western Hall, where there is a much larger lot, and then there’s just a short walk over the ballpark. This is probably the safer bet. In either case, parking is free of charge. Port-a-potties are available as your restroom facility, although you could also cross the street and use Western Hall, which will almost assuredly be open with more proper facilities should you prefer that. Return on Investment 4 Parking is free, admission is free, and the most you’ll likely spend on food is $3 per person (although all you’ll get is a sugar high). It’s hard to quibble with a sports experience at the Division I level that will cost you nothing. If you’re in the area and the weather is nice, then this is a fine way to spend your afternoon. . Extras 2 On the outfield walls, you’ll find a tribute to two former Leathernecks who died before their time. Devin VanBrooker is memorialized by a sign that reads, “In Loving Memory,” from Mom, Dad, and Tony. VanBrooker died in a motorcycle accident in 2010 at the age of 21. He was a left handed pitcher for the Leathernecks. Another sign down the left field line reads, “Forever a Leatherneck,” and memorializes both VanBrooker, as well as Stan Hyman, the WIU all-time winningest baseball coach, who passed away in 2009 after a battle with leukemia. Hyman led the Leathernecks for eight seasons and amassed 116 victories during his time as coach. Final Thoughts If you are a fan of the Leathernecks, or are following your team to Macomb for a game, you will have a very comfortable experience at Boyer Stadium. While this venue is on no one’s bucket list, it is a fine facility in which to enjoy college baseball.

Photos by Joe Molski, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Hayden Field 3701 Victory Pkwy Cincinnati, OH 45207 Xavier Muskateers website Hayden Field website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 500 Xavier's Hayden Field Hayden Field has been home to the Xavier University baseball team since the team started playing there in the 1920s. There were many renovations to get it to its current dimensions (left field: 310 ft, center field: 380 ft, right field: 310 ft). The major work took place in 2010 when a new playing surface, brick backstop, and dugouts were added to the home of the Musketeers. The stadium is named after J. Page Hayden after a donation was made to its construction. It has a capacity of 500 spectators. The Cincinnati Steam also plays home games during the summer in the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League since 2006. Food & Beverage 3 Due to Covid-19, there was a limited selection of food and drink at Hayden Field. If you saw Subway, McDonald’s, or Starbucks in the stands, it was brought from the outside, which is allowed. The small concession cart carried Pepsi products, along with bagged chips and Gatorade. Those 21 and older could enjoy alcoholic beverages like Budweiser and WhiteClaw. Atmosphere 3 As my first ever college baseball game, I loved the rowdiness from the fans and the dugouts. The shouting after a strikeout or the benches-clearing after a home run was awesome, and it added an element missing from the professional level. The limited fans there would have been the most passionate, as only players on Xavier got tickets to give away. Students sat on the hill across a noisy parkway, so their impact was limited. The view of the Xavier campus brightens the somewhat vapid ballpark along with lush green colors of a nearby lawn and trees that serve as the batter’s eye in dead center field. A campus building is directly behind the right-field wall where championship banners are proudly displayed. A simple scoreboard is also located near this area of the field. Neighborhood 4 Hayden Field sits directly across from the Xavier main campus on Victory Parkway in Cincinnati, Ohio. Right near Dana Ave and I-71, the neighborhood around the campus has been transformed in the past few months. Right in between Avondale and Evanston, you can enjoy a walk around before the game. Fans 3 With a limited amount of tickets to be given out, there were only friends and family at this game. Still, the limited sets of fans provided plenty of noise. Students sat on the hill across busy Victory Parkway, with an occasional chirp or jeer heard between breaks in traffic. Access 4 Easy access from I-71 and Dana Avenue makes this field and the campus very easy to get to from any highway or part of town. Sitting right next to the university’s soccer field, a nice parking lot, and parking in the university across the street, make a game very easy to attend. Return on Investment 5 An adult ticket is $5, a youth ticket is $3, and a student gets in free with ID (I did not test my University of Cincinnati ID card). And you can bring your food, getting to see Division 1 games for almost for free can not be beaten. . Extras 2 There is a fence beyond the left field line protecting the busy street, which is Victory Parkway. I wonder how many times that has been hit in a game? An extended warning track has a little incline in the final feet to the wall. It seems like an unnecessary hazard to have in left field, but nothing like a little home-field advantage. Final Thoughts There was a collision between the shortstop and second baseman chasing a pop-up and pausing the game for some time in the first inning. The benches were yelling at each other after every strikeout or an extra-base hit. Some Xavier players signed a baseball and gave it to one of their professors in the stands. This game had all of it. Hayden Field is the perfect college baseball stadium. The sound of the bats and the yells from the dugouts will have me coming back for more baseball soon.

Photo by Michael Rusignuolo, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Rob Hoffman Vallei Zanderijweg, 1403 XV Bussum, Netherlands Bussum HCAW website Rob Hoffman Vallei website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 1,000 Baseball in the Valley Baseball in Bussum has a long history, starting pre-WWII as the HC’38 club in 1938. After some post war name changes, the HCAW club (HonkbalClub Allen Weerbaar) founded officially in 1957 and has been active since then, even absorbing their big league rival the Amstel Tigers in the late 80s, playing as the HCAW-Tigers until 1995, when they became HCAW alone once again. In 1971, HCAW moved into their own complex, “The Baseball Valley.” As with many other Dutch ballparks, this is a multi-field complex for both top-level baseball and softball, along with other fields for lower-level and youth competition. It stands apart, however, because the “valley” was a baseball-only facility, and not part of a multi-sport “sportpark” athletic complex like nearly the rest of the Honkbal Hoofdklasse. The 1,000-seat main stadium and the entire valley were more recently renamed to Rob Hoffman Vallei to honor long-time local pitching great, Rob Hoffman. Rob Hoffman Vallei isn’t the biggest or best ballparks in The Netherlands, but it is a baseball-only facility with solid services, good value, and relatively easy to access. [All prices are in Euros. At the time of writing, one Euro is worth about $1.15.] Food & Beverage 3 Keeping with Honkbal Hoofdklasse standard, all food and drinks are served from the team’s clubhouse. A combined bar and grill sit behind the counter in the trophy and memorabilia-strewn building. You can bring the food out to your seat, or park up on picnic-type tables in the clubhouse itself. The standard Dutch ballpark fare is on offer. There’s a selection of burgers, hot dogs, and other sausages (€3 and under), and a selection of Dutch broodjes sandwiches (€3). You can argue selection, but you can’t argue prices. All your drinks come from the same place, with the same limited options and unassailable prices. Heineken, Hoegaarden, Rose, Radler, and Palm (along with wine) are just €2 a piece. Fans load up by the case before the first pitch and bring their empties back in the same case after the game. Coke is the non-alcoholic drink family of choice. You’re in The Netherlands, so you might as well have a Heineken. If you’re not feeling like a hot dog or brat, try out a Dutch broodje and go a little native. Atmosphere 3 Rob Hoffman Vallei is one of the few baseball-only facilities in The Netherlands, but its physical buildings aren’t quite as advanced or top-notch as some others in the league. The fields in the valley are almost all made of chain link fence walls. There are three main buildings by the Honkbal Hoofdklasse field: player locker rooms beyond first base, the clubhouse and team store behind home place, and the attached “Buccaneers Business Club” running down the third baseline. A small press box shed sits halfway between home plate and first base. Unlike many fields in Honkbal Hoofdklasse, visitors can walk around to beyond the center field chain link fence and look in on the game. The main seating area is on a narrow drop from the clubhouse plaza, consisting of two-piece molded plastic seats running in five rows from half-way to first base to half-way to third base. There is an additional row of seats in front of the Business Club on the third base side. A small digital scoreboard just records the score, balls, strikes, outs, and inning in right-center field. Trees rise above the chain link outfield wall, broken up only by the large conditioning and training building beyond left field. Smoking is very much still a thing in the otherwise progressive Netherlands, and there are several picnic tables in the plaza in front of the clubhouse with ash trays built in to accommodate smokers. As is the case in most Honkbal Hoofdklasse games, there are no mascots or between-innings entertainment that permeate all levels of US baseball. You get in-stadium PA announcements, batter walk-up music, and the seventh inning stretch, period. The Dutch don’t even play the national anthem before games or usually fly their flag. Since this is a step up from club ball, however, there are some nice vestiges of sportsmanship. Each batter coming the plate for the first time usually shakes the hand of the umpire and the opposing catcher. You can sit wherever you want except in the dugout, so choose whatever suits your mood. Hang out at the picnic tables with a crate of beer, or grab a seat right behind home plate and see a game closer than you could even dream about in America. Neighborhood 2 Bussum is a small suburb and commuter town, and while it is convenient to transit, there’s not a ton going on by the ballpark. A short distance north in the city center, there are at least a decent selection of restaurants. La Cubanita Bussum, Restaurant LUEK, Nobel, Soigne, Mah Wah, Restaurant ‘tKOOKt, and several others are all to be found near downtown. But there’s not much going on around Rob Hoffam Vallei. The nearest point of interest is the medieval fort city Utrechtse Poort about ten minutes to the north. Seek greener pastures for activities beyond baseball. There are only three hotels relatively close to the park. The closest is the Bastion Hotel Bussum, within walking distance. The Bed & Breakfast Bussum is to the north, and the Hotel NH Bussum Jan Tabak is further to the northeast. There are many more choices to the south in Hilversum. Fans 4 Baseball (or honkbal, as it is known locally) is very much a fringe sport in The Netherlands, and for all of Europe for that matter. The Dutch Honkbal Hoofdklasse is one of the only semi pro/professional leagues on the continent, sharing the distinction with the Italian Baseball League. HCAW seems to draw on the top-end of the average Dutch baseball crowds across the league (between 100-250 people per game). After games and practices at the surrounding fields end, the players and spectators come over to watch the top-level men play their games. Another out-of-the-ordinary status quo is that there are usually pet dogs at every game. It is a welcome change for dog lovers, less so if you don’t like them. The HCAW fan base stands out quite prominently as being ardent fans. They are very into the games and pay close attention to the on-field action. The numbers especially stand out since this is one of the only parks in The Netherlands that charge admission. Access 4 Located in a small town in the central Netherlands, Rob Hoffman Vallei is easy to get to by mass transit and easy to get around in once you arrive. Rob Hoffman Vallei has the benefit of being a short walk from a Dutch train station, Station Bussum Zuid. It is literally one stop from the city center (3 minutes, €2.40), a half hour by train from Amsterdam Centraal (€5.30), and 20 minutes from Utrecht Centraal (€5.10). It is a five minute drive, cab, or ride share from downtown Bussum (or about a 20-minute walk), and about a half-hour drive, cab, or ride share from Amsterdam or Utrecht. There is a small parking lot and street parking by the ballpark, and there is plenty of free bicycle parking. Cabs and ride shares can drop you off right at the entrance. There is one entrance to the facility through the main gate and ticket window. This is the only choke point in the entire park, as it opens out onto a plaza and wide walkways that connect it with all the other fields and facilities in the complex. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices into the baseball valley are €5 for adult and €2.50 for children. While it is one of the only parks to charge admission in Honkbal Hoofdklasse, it is still quite a value. All of the food and drinks are €3 or under, and you just can’t beat those prices. . Extras 3 As with all the Dutch stadiums, extras are at a minimum. The clubhouse has a selection of baseball memorabilia, as well as club trophies and awards. There is a rather unique baseball couch in the clubhouse that is worth a look. The team store is in an attached building to the clubhouse, selling general baseball equipment and a small selection of team gear, but it is often closed, even during games. There is a screened picture of the valley’s namesake at the entrance to the park, a dedication plaque for the park, and a large team mural on one of the clubhouse buildings that you walk through on the way to the fields. There is also a dedication to Toon Otte on one of the locker room buildings and four retired numbers (1, 10, 12, 24) on the left field wall. As Dutch clubhouse personnel are almost all volunteers, they are polite and helpful to a person and are always glad to talk to and assist visitors. Final Thoughts While Rob Hoffman Vallei isn’t the newest or shiniest ballpark in The Netherlands, it is a baseball-only environment with a sizeable Dutch fan base, great value and access, and all the bases covered.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Mississippi Coast Coliseum 2350 Beach Blvd Biloxi, MS 39531 Mississippi Sea Wolves website Mississippi Coast Coliseum website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 9,150 Welcome to the Wolf's Den In December 2021, over 8,000 fans packed the Mississippi Coast Coliseum for each game in a series of three neutral site games between teams from the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). The plan was to see how many fans would turn out, to determine if a professional hockey team should return to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Needless to say, hockey fans on the coast passed the test – the games were a huge draw and a big success for the region. So, for the 2022-23 season, for the first time in over eight years, the sound of Zambonis roaring and players skating on the ice could be heard inside Coast Coliseum once again, as the Mississippi Sea Wolves have been resurrected as the FPHL's newest team. Hockey is no stranger to the Gulf Coast. In 1996 the original Mississippi Sea Wolves were born and competed in the ECHL for 11 seasons; for the first nine seasons the Sea Wolves brought packed houses to the Coliseum, and a passionate fan base to an unlikely hockey market in south Mississippi. The Sea Wolves were a huge success and made the playoffs during eight of those seasons, and even won the Kelly Cup Championship in 1999. Unfortunately, all that would change in August 2005, when the coast would face its ultimate test, the deafening blow of Hurricane Katrina. The 20-foot surge completely gutted the Coliseum, which is located less than a hundred yards from the beach – the Coliseum would be closed for two years to repair the damage. The Sea Wolves would return in 2007 and play two more seasons before suspending operations for good. After that, the Mississippi Surge of the SPHL would begin play in 2009 and play for five seasons, winning one President’s Cup Championship in 2011. Food & Beverage 3 The Coliseum features six fixed permanent concessions stands, with three on each side of the concourse, although for most games only four of the stands are open. One of the stands is called Gulf Coast Eats and its prices are kind of high – the menu includes smash burgers ($15), chicken sandwiches ($13), chicken tender baskets ($11), nachos ($7), jumbo pretzels ($7), hot dogs ($6), and popcorn ($6). On busy nights two of these Gulf Coast Eats stands will be open on each side. The other stand is Provisions and sells an extensive drink selection, including canned cocktails ($11), domestic beers (Miller Lite & Coors Light) and premium beers (Blue Moon, Truly, Flying Llama IPA, Modelo, Corona, & Yuengling) for $10-$11, as well as soda for $5; Coca-Cola is the soft drink provider at Coast Coliseum. You can also find several pop-up stands located throughout the Coliseum. There is a nacho stand that sells a wide assortment of different nachos, as well as a pizza stand that sells really good flat bread pizzas for $12. There is also a full-service bar on the first level of the Coliseum called the Locker Room – this area is an enclosed lounge that is only open for select games. There is a smaller bar set up on the floor on the north side as well. Atmosphere 3 The Sea Wolves play at the 9,150-seat Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi. The large stucco building opened in 1977 and has become a symbol for the Mississippi Coast. The Coliseum is often featured in aerial shots of Biloxi along with the city's impressive casinos and the historic Biloxi Lighthouse. The venue is the typical mid-sized city's civic center of the 70s and 80s, lacking some of the amenities found at some of hockey’s newer arenas. Regardless, the Coliseum is still the second largest arena in the 10-team conference. The ice faces north and south with a two-level seating bowl and wraparound concourse where you can walk around the entire arena from the concourse. There are no suites or club levels; instead the floor level features four makeshift suite areas on the south end of the venue. The north side features the Coca-Cola Café, a seating area with high end stools and cocktail tables. The concourse on the first floor also features a pretty impressive merchandise stand which sell t-shirts, pennants, jerseys, pucks, and more. When the Sea Wolves returned, they brought back all the nostalgia of the original Sea Wolves. The team plays the original songs that were played during the first incarnation – Robert Miles' song "Children" will play over the speakers as they dim the lights during the starting lineups and player introductions, and Europe’s "The Final Countdown" plays at the start of the 3rd period. These are little things but still nice to see that the new club has brought them back. In addition, the wolf mascot Hook has been brought back in the exact same mascot costume from the original franchise. Hook is a constant presence at Sea Wolves games and is always seen in the crowd. The Coliseum's public address announcer is also the same guy whose voice has been heard at the Coliseum for over 20 years; the only difference is the slight logo change and the Sea Wolves playing in the FPHL. So, if you were a fan of the original Sea Wolves you will have no problem supporting the new team. Neighborhood 5 Hockey, beaches and casinos; what more could you ask for. The small coastal city is known for its world class casinos, famous seafood, and rich southern history. After being completely devastated during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Biloxi has come a long way in 17 years. Nicknamed ‘Vegas of the South’, Biloxi has nine casinos that line the skyline, each with their own unique theme and amenities, and remains a popular getaway for many in the southeast who want a cheaper alternative to Vegas. The Coliseum sits several miles from the nearest casino, but Biloxi is quite a small town so it's nothing more than a 5-10 minute drive to Casino Row to the east. The Coliseum sits less than 100 yards from the beach, so you could go straight from the beach to a hockey game in less than 5 minutes. Although the waters of the Mississippi Sound aren't as pretty as the water in nearby Florida and Alabama, you can still find plenty to do such as taking a boat to the nearby islands off the coast and fishing for some of the best seafood in the world. Sitting directly across the street from the Coliseum to the east is the beautiful grounds of Beauvoir, the last home of Jefferson Davis – the large mansion was built in 1848 and sits on 52 acres of ground that include a veterans home and a cemetery. Every October the site plays host to a Civil War re-enactment. Another scenic historic sight in the area is the Biloxi Light House located nearby; the lighthouse was built in 1847 and is available for tours every day. Biloxi also has plenty of restaurants, ranging from 5-star restaurants in the casinos to tons of different seafood restaurants in downtown and on the beach. Fans 3 Midway through the 2022-23 season the Sea Wolves are averaging 2,400 fans per game, which places them fourth in the conference. The Coliseum also holds the all-time FPHL attendance record, which was set at the neutral site game in December 2021. Sea Wolves games attract a wide mix of different types of people – you'll find the local military crowd, the casino crowd, a mix of different families, and the snowbird crowd from other states who are visiting the local casinos. Many of these people along the Gulf Coast remember the days of the old Sea Wolves, so you'll also find the regulars who show up just for the nostalgia of the Sea Wolves being back in Biloxi. You'll also find a lot of people wearing old Sea Wolves jerseys and jerseys of other ECHL teams that once played along the southeast I-10 corridor. At one time Interstate 10 from Jacksonville to Texas played host to eight ECHL teams, so it's not uncommon to find old Mobile Mystics, Jackson Bandits, New Orleans Brass, or Baton Rouge King Fish jerseys spotted in the crowd. I also saw plenty of Nashville Predators jerseys and even somebody wearing an Atlanta Thrashers jersey, so the fans that attend Sea Wolves game are knowledgeable about hockey. The Sea Wolves also do a good job at keeping the fans entertained throughout the game. Danger, the emcee, also does a good job of keeping fans into the games during timeouts, with contests such as hockey cornhole, finish the lyrics, and asking fans trivia questions. The Sea Wolves started out kind of slow during their 2022-23 season, but you really couldn't tell here as the fans are into the game regardless. During the most recent game I was at a player scored a hat trick, so the fans threw their hats onto the ice. One thing that helps keeps people informed is the FPHL streaming all its games on YouTube for free – being able to watch Sea Wolves away games for free is always a plus. The Sea Wolves also do a good job with the community, hosting wait nights at the local restaurants and having watch parties at a local bar, where one of the players works as a bartender. The Sea Wolves have also brought back the Junior Sea Wolves, the only known club hockey team for kids and teenagers – this type of fan engagement will only ensure that the Sea Wolves will be around for years to come. Access 3 Biloxi is kind of off the beaten path, about an hour and a half east of New Orleans and about an hour west of Mobile. The Coliseum is located on Beach Blvd/Highway 90, about 8 miles south of the interstate. Navigating the side roads from the interstate to the beach can be kind of confusing, not to mention the closer to the beach you get the worse traffic will get. The best exit would be to take Cedar Lake Road at Exit 44, then travel south for about 8 miles until you will hit Pass Road, one of the main roads through Biloxi. Pass Road runs east and west and will often have traffic congestion and road work going on – from there turn south onto Beauvoir Road and the Coliseum sits to the right. You could also take the scenic route on Highway 90/Beach Blvd; this route runs east and west over 50 miles through eight small coastal beach towns, with Biloxi located right in the middle. This highway runs along the beach, and on the way you'll pass casinos, seafood restaurants, small towns, and historic sights – I recommend this route if you have a lot of time. Parking can be kind of hectic when there is an event going on at the convention center attached to the Coliseum. There is plenty of parking around the property and even a parking garage, but the grounds are huge, so you may have to walk a bit if you park in the back lots if there is an event going on next door. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are easy to come by for Sea Wolves games and a great bargain – seating is separated into three sections; the upper level and lower levels, plus four rows of removable bleachers in front of the seating bowl. Tickets start at $10 for seats in the upper deck, while it is $13 for the lower deck and $19 for seating in the removable sections. You can also purchase a seat for $22 at one of the tabletops at floor level in the north end as well. Concessions prices are kind of high, but in today's age most concessions at arenas are always high. However, factoring in the great views from anywhere in the Coliseum and the Sea Wolves always putting on an enjoyable experience, I consider it a great return on investment. You are also getting to see the only professional hockey team in the state of Mississippi. Extras 3 If you are interested in ghosts and the paranormal, then you will be thrilled to know that Coast Coliseum is supposedly haunted. The Coliseum is only 46 years old, but it was built on the site of an old orphanage that was located here in the 1940s – before that it was part of the property of Beauvoir next door. That, factored into the cemetery located right off the property, has only increased ghost sightings even more on the grounds of the Coliseum. In 2022 the Sci-Fi Channel's Ghost Hunters visited the Coliseum and found tons of evidence supporting the claims it is haunted; the convention center and the south side of the building are the parts of the building with the most activity, so be on the lookout for ghosts if you attend a Sea Wolves game. The Coliseum has also been the Coast's premiere indoor entertainment venue, as it is the largest indoor multi-purpose venue in Mississippi south of Jackson. The venue has hosted a ton of events over the years including postseason conference basketball tournaments, WWE and WCW events, NBA preseason games, and an indoor football and soccer team, as well as concerts such as Allman Brothers, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett, Ray Charles, Aerosmith, Elton John, Johnny Cash, and Kiss. Another extra just for how far this region has come since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. With the Biloxi Shuckers playing in a beautiful ballpark downtown and the Sea Wolves returning to the Coast, Biloxi is becoming a minor league sports destination on top of already being a top-notch entertainment destination. It's interesting watching the city returning to its former glory compared to how this place looked after the hurricane.

Photos by Richard Smith, Jennifer Smith, and Emmy Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Tiger Field Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Field website Year Opened: 2007 (Renovated 2020) Capacity: 600 Soccer With Tigers Tiger Field opened as the Tiger Soccer Complex opened in 2007 and is the home to the Towson Tigers women’s soccer team as well as the women’s lacrosse team. This location, adjacent to Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, was home to earlier versions of soccer fields for the school. In 2011 a more permanent set of bleachers was added, but it was in 2018 when a more substantial renovation started. Finally, in 2020 a new grandstand was added as well as permanent concessions, restrooms, and a press box. The Tigers have had moderate success as a women’s soccer program. Towson has not had a men’s program since the end of the 2012 season, when the program was controversially discontinued, in part due to Title IX regulations. Food & Beverage 2 The new permanent concession stand is an improvement over the temporary one located here previously. The options are still quite simple and like many Towson athletic facilities do not offer a great variety. The prices are decent. Atmosphere 4 The hill between the pitch and the SECU Arena is a nice place to watch the matches and also provides a nice atmosphere. The “new” facility creates such a warm and comfortable environment to watch soccer matches. The permanent grandstand is not large but is much nicer than the older stands. Doc the Tiger, Towson’s mascot, is often in attendance at matches. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the field. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are Glory Days Grill and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Fans 4 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in residence students. Students are starting to come to games in more significant numbers. There are also many other fans who appear to be either locals or family of the players. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn location of the sports complexes. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 5 There is no admission charge and the food is reasonably priced so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 3 Free programs are available for the matches. Doc is a great mascot who makes the atmosphere better. The hill overlooking the pitch is a great extra. Final Thoughts The changes to Tiger Field have taken a good location for soccer and made it into a very special soccer experience.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Tiger Field Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Field website Year Opened: 2007 (Renovated 2020) Capacity: 600 Lacrosse With Tigers Tiger Field opened as the Tiger Soccer Complex opened in 2007 and is the home to the Towson Tigers women’s lacrosse team as well as the women’s soccer team. This location, adjacent to Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, was home to earlier versions of soccer fields for the school. In 2011 a more permanent set of bleachers was added, but it was in 2018 that a more substantial renovation started. Finally, in 2020 a new grandstand was added as well as permanent concessions, restrooms, and a press box. The Tigers have had decent success as a women’s lacrosse program. The team has made 11 NCAA tournament appearances. Food & Beverage 2 The new permanent concession stand is an improvement over the temporary one located here previously. The options are still quite simple and like many Towson athletic facilities do not offer a great variety. The prices are decent. Atmosphere 4 The hill between the pitch and the SECU Arena is a nice place to watch the matches and also provides a nice atmosphere. The “new” facility creates such a warm and comfortable environment to watch soccer matches. The permanent grandstand is not large but is much nicer than the older stands. Doc the Tiger, Towson’s mascot, is often in attendance at matches. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the field. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are Glory Days Grill and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Fans 4 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in residence students. Students are starting to come to games in more significant numbers. There are also many other fans who appear to be either locals or family of the players. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn location of the sports complexes. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 5 There is no admission charge and the food is reasonably priced so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 3 Free programs are available for the matches. Doc is a great mascot who makes the atmosphere better. The hill overlooking the pitch is a great extra. Final Thoughts The changes to Tiger Field have taken a good location for soccer and made it into a very special soccer experience.

Photos by Richard Smith Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd. Towson, MD 21286 Goucher Gophers website Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 1,200 Home Of The Gophers Goucher College is a former all-women’s college located in Towson, Maryland, a northern suburb of Baltimore. The college opened in 1885 as the Women’s College of Baltimore City changed its name to its current name in 1910 and went coed in 1986. Goucher moved to its present suburban location northeast of the county seat of Towson in Baltimore County in 1953. The college is named in honor of its founding member, John Goucher, and his wife, Mary Fisher Goucher. Goucher College is a private co-educational liberal arts college. It was originally affiliated with the Baltimore Conference of Methodist Episcopal Church but currently has no real church affiliation. The college has approximately 1,480 undergraduate students studying in 33 majors and 1,200 students studying in graduate programs. Notable alumni include Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps Margaret G. Kibben, Maryland State Delegate John A. Olszewski, Jr., and frequent John Waters actress Mary Vivian Pearce. Goucher athletic teams are known as the Gophers. The college competes in NCAA Division III as part of the Landmark Conference. The Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena opened in 1991. The 1,200-seat arena was built in 1991 as part of the expansion of the original Lillian Welsh Hall. The arena has hosted events such as various concerts and the Pride of Maryland Tournament which features nine Division III men’s basketball teams in a three-day, 12-game tournament. Food & Beverage 1 There is no permanent food stand at the Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena. At the women’s and men’s doubleheader, I attended, there was a Chick-fil-A booth selling chicken sandwiches, but they left as soon as they sold all of their products. Make sure to eat before or after the game as this arena is not a good place for food concessions. Atmosphere 2 The arena is very nice, but it is basically a high school type of setup. As you enter the arena you will find wooden grandstands sitting along two sides of a basketball court. The only thing I found interesting is how far away the grandstands sit from the actual basketball floor. Maybe they are expecting a huge need for floor-side seats at some point. Neighborhood 4 The Goucher College campus has been used for a few scenes in the Netflix series House of Cards, so expect to recognize the stone buildings from a few scenes there. Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are The Crease, Glory Days Grill, Sushi Hana, and Zia’s. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Fans 2 The only real fans who attend the games are friends and family of the players. A few scattered students attend, but it is not a big event on campus. Access 4 Goucher is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a busy area and traffic can be bad at some times. The college itself is pretty and quite suburban. You will find plenty of parking close to the arena, although a night game may mean that parking could get tight at times. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. So, although the level of play is quite low, the free parking and admission make this a great value for sports fans. Extras 1 Goucher College has a nice little athletics hall of fame located in the Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena lobby. Final Thoughts The Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena is a pretty basic, low-level arena located in a nice suburban setting of Baltimore. It is not worth making a trip going just for a Goucher Gophers game, but if you are in the area you will enjoy the game for its low level of investment.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Wolstein Center 2000 Prospect Ave Cleveland, OH 44115 Cleveland State Vikings website Wolstein Center website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 8,500 The Sea is Crowded To say that the Cleveland sports scene is crowded may be a bit of an understatement. Everyone knows of the presence of the Browns, Cavaliers and Guardians. Add to that the Cleveland Monsters, Cleveland Charge and the love the city has for Ohio State athletics, and there is not much room left. Enter the Cleveland State Vikings. Playing NCAA Division I basketball in the Horizon League, Cleveland State is struggling to find and maintain their place in the major league city sports market. The Vikings have been playing basketball since 1929, back when they were known as Fenn College. The school was renamed Cleveland State University in 1965 and currently welcomes over 15,000 students. In 1994, the Vikings moved to the Horizon League. Home for the Vikings is the Henry J. Goodman Arena @ Bert L. & Iris S. Wolstein Center. Usually referred to as the Wolstein Center, the 8,500 seat venue was built in 1991 and is also home to the Cleveland Charge of the G-League. The venue is named after businessman and former chair of the Cleveland State University Board of Trustees, Henry Goodman, and real estate developer and CSU alum, Bert Wolstein. Cleveland State has enjoyed three NCAA tournament appearances, three conference tournament championships, and six regular season conference championships. Food & Beverage 2 The concession selection at Wolstein Center is pretty limited. Hot Dogs, brats, pretzels, nachos, popcorn, chips and candy are what will be found. The soft drink supplier is Pepsi and fountain Pepsi products are available along with bottled Gatorade. There are also a number of beers available, including Coors Light, Miller Lite, Great Lakes and Market Garden. White Claw Seltzer is also available. The prices are pretty good and there is enough here to keep fans from going hungry, but there is nothing offered that is overly interesting. Atmosphere 3 The Wolstein Center definitely looks like a circa 1990s arena. Built as a simple oval, the exterior features a light siding upper oval with brown brick and glass on the lower level. The lettering of the building name is a green that is featured throughout the building. Each of the four corners have plenty of space to meet others before the game. The exterior is fairly attractive, but there is nothing to wow a person, a theme throughout the Cleveland State experience. The concourses in the Wolstein Center are wide enough and do have a slightly dated feel to them, however, Cleveland State uses their green to their advantage. The white and green walls highlight the team colors but the drop ceiling found throughout the concourses is a unique green and seals the home venue feel. Fans who are interested in doing some treasure hunting will want to check out the Cleveland State University Athletic Hall of Fame, which is on one of the interior walls in the concourse. When fans enter the seating bowl, they are welcomed to a separated, two tier seating bowl. The court runs from west to east and the west end has a massive green curtain which drapes off the end of the arena. This is designed to make the arena feel a little more cozy by pushing the court right up to the east end. Behind the curtain on the west side is the Kid Zone featuring activities for the kids and inflatable fun. The perfect center court picture should be taken from the south side. Surprisingly, the Wolstein Center lacks a center court videoboard. Scoreboards can be found in the upper northeast and southeast corners and there are hanging scoreboards in front of the curtain. The only LED boards are found in front of the scorers table. Banners are found on the east side of the building, including the honoured numbers of Ken McFadden, Franklin Edwards, Norris Cole and Clinton Ransey. The gameday production is pretty much what you would expect from a college basketball experience. The band is found courtside on the east side, and plays throughout the game. They were not terribly loud at the game that was reviewed and it is possible that the sound of the band just got lost in the rafters. The cheerleaders and dance team add the expected flair throughout the game. The Vikings do employ an in-game host, who is a little over the top and not overly consistent with a college experience. The Vikings do have a significant focus on kids with the Kid Zone and kids getting to take shots from the floor after the game. The mascot, Magnus, roams the floor and interacts with fans. A victory by the Vikings brings the theme to the Drew Carey Show, “Cleveland Rocks” by the Presidents of the United States of America over the speakers. Neighborhood 5 The Wolstein Center is located on the western edge of the Central neighborhood of Cleveland, just east of Downtown. There are a ton of things to do in downtown Cleveland. As previously mentioned, the Wolstein Center is also the home of the G-League’s Cleveland Charge. Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians, and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, home of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Monsters, are a brisk walk from the Wolstein Center. Further north, on the lakeshore, is FirstEnergy Stadium, home of the Cleveland Browns. There are a number of other attractions in Downtown Cleveland. There are a number of theatres in the area as well as the Cleveland Grays Armory Museum and Great Lakes Science Center. However, the must see attraction is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. On the lakeshore, the Hall of Fame will probably require a very short drive, but it is absolutely worth it and a must see when visiting Cleveland. There are also a plethora of places to eat and drink near the Wolstein Center. The Wild Eagle Saloon, Republic Food and Drink, Grille 55, Rascal House, Southern Tier Brewery and the Winking Lizard are all worth checking out. For fans wishing to stay close to the arena, the Comfort Inn Downtown is mere steps away from Vikings basketball. Fans 3 The Cleveland State Vikings have attracted an average of 1,850 fans per game in the 2022-2023 season. This ranks them 5th in the Horizon League, which is the normal spot for the Vikings. Clearly the capacity at the Wolstein Center is far greater than the average number of fans per game, which makes the arena seem cavernous. Cleveland State fans are fairly laid back, but the focus on kids that the Vikings have shown will hopefully breed new fans and bring that attendance figure up. Access 4 Getting to the Wolstein Center is not terribly difficult. Being located just past the edge of Downtown Cleveland will hopefully keep fans from being forced to drive through the heart of the city where most of the traffic is. The Wolstein Center is located just south of major street Euclid Avenue and north of I-90. The off-ramp from the interstate is right there so getting to the arena should be no problem. There are a number of parking facilities in the area, but the South Garage, just east of the Wolstein Center is the easiest to get to. For fans wishing to take public transit to see the Vikings, there are Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority buses that travel Prospect Ave and 21st street. Fans should check out the PARTA website for fares, schedules and maps. With attendances that are nowhere near capacity, traversing the concourses is no issue and there are plenty of washroom facilities. There are four entrances at Wolstein Center, one at each corner, and the ticket windows are found in the northeast and northwest corners of the building. With the security protocols of spectator sports in constant flux, Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Cleveland State Vikings website before heading to the Wolstein Center for the most up to date information regarding bags, procedures and prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 Taking in a Cleveland State Vikings game is very affordable. General Admission tickets begin at $10. Reserved tickets in the corners can be found for $12 and the middle is $16. Concession prices are very reasonable and parking can be found for $10. The product on the court is solid and the gameday atmosphere is decent. Horizon League basketball is as good as other mid-major conferences and fans will have a good time. Combine that with the ability to take in a sporting event in a major, downtown area, far less expensive than the other options, and fans have a recipe for a great day. Extras 2 An extra mark for the focus Cleveland State has on the youngsters with the kid zone and ability to take shots from the court at the end of the game. An extra mark for the Cleveland State Vikings rivalry with the Youngstown State Penguins. Final Thoughts Finding a space in the very crowded Cleveland sports market is a challenge. The Cleveland State Vikings have attempted to carve out a niche for themselves in Cleveland. Although there are improvements that could be made, the Vikings home at the Wolstein Center is a solid arena and the experience at Cleveland State is an enjoyable one. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex 915 South Jackson St Montgomery, AL 36104 Alabama State Hornets website Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 600 The Hornet's Nest Alabama State University was founded in 1867. The school is one of the first Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the country. It is located in Montgomery, Alabama, and has 5,500 students The main academic programs of the university are Education, Health Sciences and Arts and Sciences, Mathematics & Technology, and Aerospace Science. The athletic teams at Alabama State are known as the Hornets, and they play in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). In addition to their SWAC schedule, the Hornets play schools including Yale, during the baseball season. The home of Hornets baseball is the on-campus Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex. The facility is named for two longtime coaches for the baseball program, Herbert Wheeler and Larry Watkins. The two led the baseball programs at ASU for more than a 50-year period. They led the school to two SWAC regular season championships and two SWAC tournament championships, along with two appearances in the NCAA baseball playoffs. The facility opened in 2011, bringing baseball back on campus for the first time in 20 years. The stadium holds 600 people. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand serving the baseball complex. It offers a very basic menu of baseball standards, including Pepsi sodas ($3), water ($2.50), hot dogs ($3), and candy ($2). It is located on the back side of the grandstand. There are numerous drive-through restaurants and convenience stores within a block of the baseball park, and you might want to head to one of them before or after a Hornets game for a full meal. Atmosphere 4 Wheeler-Watkins Stadium is located on the southeastern corner of the ASU campus. The site is a great place to enjoy a baseball game on a lovely spring afternoon. The stadium features a field with dimensions of 330LF, 400CF, and 330RF. The complex features the black and gold colors worn by ASU athletic team, and the dugouts, outfield fences, and scoreboards feature the logo and name of the team very dramatically. Each dugout features a photo of one of the two namesakes of the complex on their walls, along with information on their careers. The stadium seating is all seatbacks featuring the gold colors of the school. The seats are directly behind home plate, providing an excellent view of the action on the field. Many fans also bring along their lawn chairs and set them up along the fences between first and third bases and home plate. Wheeler-Watkins Stadium Scoreboard, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 The Wheeler-Watkins Baseball complex is in downtown Montgomery, just south of I-85. Montgomery is the state capital of Alabama, and as such, there are numerous museums and government buildings to visit while in the city. The city also has also played a major role in the Civil Rights movement of the city. Alabama State University is home to the National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African Americans. The National Center is located right next door to the ballpark. Just look for the mural depicting the various important dates in Civil Rights history. Other museums in the city that feature a Civil Rights theme are the Rosa Parks Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the Freedom Rides Museum, and the Dexter Parsonage, where Martin Luther King, Jr was the pastor before leading the Civil Rights movement. Restaurants in the area surrounding ASU include Central (featuring a farm-to-table experience), Martha Place (southern comfort food), and the legendary Dreamland BBQ. Beer enthusiasts will want to check out the craft beers at Railyard Brewery. Once minor league baseball season gets underway in April you can get double the baseball action by attending a Montgomery Biscuits game in the evening at Riverwalk Stadium. Fans 3 The fans at Hornets games are very knowledgeable about the players on the team, as Alabama State is a relatively small school. Typically, the highest attendance is the highest for SWAC conference contests. Many of the regulars have no official relationship with the school but come from the residential neighborhoods that ring the school campus. They are a very polite crowd, applauding nice plays no matter whether they are made by the home team or the visitors. They also stay until the last out, even if the game is a blowout. Surprisingly we did not see many students in attendance at the ballgames. This may be because many ASU students are commuter students, and they either go to work, or their homes after classes end. Access 4 Getting to an ASU Hornets game is very easy, as the Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex is located just off I-85 as you enter the downtown area of Montgomery. It is easy to identify, as the ASU football stadium practically looms over the freeway. Directions from I-85: Take I-85 to the Mulberry Street exit (Exit 2). Turn left on Mulberry Street. Turn right on West 5th Street. Turn left a Pine Leaf Street. Turn right at Carter Hill Road. Turn right on Grand Street, then right on Jackson Street. The baseball complex will be on your right. Gates at the Wheeler-Watkins Baseball, Complex open one hour before the first pitch. Return on Investment 3 An afternoon at a Hornet’s game will not break the bank. Tickets for Hornets games are $8. Parking is free at the lot next to the stadium along the third baseline side of the field. The concession stand prices are very reasonable. Hotels in the downtown areas of Montgomery are around $100 per night. Extras 1 There is a small, elevated seating area just to the left of the right field foul pole called the Hornet’s Nest. It offers a different perspective of the game's action. Final Thoughts The Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex offers a very inexpensive sports experience for baseball fans in the Montgomery area. The ballpark offers an easy location to get to, as it is just off I-85. The Montgomery area offers a wealth of places to see and visit before and after the game. This includes several state museums, as well as several sites related to the Civil Rights movement.

Just when you thought you were ready to go back to the ballpark, a baseball team rebranded. Welcome the Lexington Counter Clocks of the Atlantic League. However, what is a counter clock, and why is a baseball using it as its moniker? According to the team website: "Kentucky has an edge. A spirit. Once, it was tradition to race horses on the grass, running clockwise. This came from the British. But we raised and raced the finest horses, so we declared our independence. Our horses would race counterclockwise on dirt." "The world — and baseball — followed our lead. We heard from hundreds of community members during our rebranding process. In listening sessions, surveys, and one-on-one conversations. We heard about horses, bourbon, baseball, and why we all choose to call Kentucky home. One thing became clear: we’re proud of our culture. And we’re not afraid to blaze a new trail, even if everyone else is running backward." It is a racing term to connect to the state's horse racing industry. I am not sure the average person ever thought about this, but it is true. In the United States, all race tracks, auto-included, are counterclockwise. You learn something new every day with baseball, don't you? Nathan and Keri Lyons, owners of Vintage South Development, a residential development company based in Nashville took over the club in October and also introduced two names for its new logos: Hoss the horse and Dinger the clock. The colors are red, white, and blue. The team scrapped the Legends identity that has been in use since baseball returned to Lexington in 2001. The club was known for its handlebar mustache cap that was once sold in all 50 states in the US. The team went from an affiliated club in the South Atlantic League to an independent club after the 2020 season and, with new ownership, necessitated a fresh new look for the ball club. The Legends name and mustache logo were quite popular among baseball fans and there will be more than likely a share of distractors of the new look. A worker at the ballpark stated that "there has been quite the buzz" following the announcement today. Besides the new logo, there is construction taking place at the ballpark that will include renovations of the restrooms, club and suite areas, and an extension of protective netting. MY THOUGHTS I wasn't expecting a change and had not even heard rumblings of one from the community, so this surprised me today. Despite the Legends branding being enshrined in the community for 23 seasons, new ownership made changes that might take some time for many to adjust. The three logos are simple, clean, and without unneeded wordmarks or flourishes. Simplicity is not a bad thing, but these new marks might not be for everyone. It’s a branding that will look good on print and social media. I will have to see how it looks on team jerseys The backward C logo will look pleasing on the left chest of a white uniform and a cap. It appears to be the primary logo, perhaps another version could have been created for this purpose. The horse and jockey logo are my least favorite of the three; maybe it’s the face of the jockey, the plumpness of the horse, or that it could be improved a bit more to make it look sharp. However, the star of the show is Dinger the clock. He is gruff, mean, and carries a big stick. I am not sure what 9 o'clock means on his face, but perhaps it creates his nose and the letter "L". This would have been a nice new look, but Dinger takes it to the next level. The one complaint might be the hazy red outline and the legs. The Counter Clocks are not the first unusual name to hit the ballpark, and it won't be the last. We will have to wait and see when the Clocks take the field on April 28. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Thompson Gymnasium One Alpha Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Elizabethtown Blue Jays website Thompson Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 1,000 Fun In E-Town Elizabethtown College (usually referred to as just E-Town) is a private college in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Elizabethtown is in Lancaster County, 21 miles southeast of Harrisburg and 20 miles south of Hershey. The college was founded in 1899 by the Church of the Brethren and offers 53 majors and over 90 minors and concentrations focusing on arts, humanities, and sciences. The Elizabethtown College Blue Jays are a member of NCAA Division III, and the Landmark Conference since 2014. The women’s basketball was the NCAA Division III National Champion in 1982 and 1989 while the men’s program was the NCAA Division III National Runner-Up in 2002. The most famous athletic alumni may be Gene Garber, who is the former all-time saves leader for the Atlanta Braves (currently third behind John Smoltz and Craig Kimbrel). Thompson Gymnasium opened in 1970 but most recently had a forced renovation in 2015 when during construction on the gymnasium’s pitched roof, a vapor barrier was blown open by a thunderstorm, resulting in water damage to the court. Food & Beverage 0 There are no normally scheduled food offerings at E-Town games. I would suspect that student organizations occasionally offer bake sales or simple concession offerings in the lobby for certain games. There was an organization selling bracelets when we attended. Atmosphere 3 The arena is very nice, but it is a high basic school type of setup. As you enter the arena you will find bleacher filled grandstands sitting along two sides of a basketball court. Outside the gym and down a hallway are the E-Town Hall of Fame and trophy cases. There are also some sports-specific display cases located in the gym itself and the adjacent lobby. Neighborhood 4 The town of Elizabethtown is quite quaint and also offers a nice variety of food options. Our top choices would be Funk Brewing, Good Burrito Co., Vinnie & Pat’s, and PizzAtown. Hershey is just short drive north. There just happens to be a major amusement park located there, as well as other Hershey attractions. The Troegs Brewery on Hersheypark Drive offers guided and self tours, as well as having a great tasting and food room. If you’re looking for more standard dining options, then you will find a Red Robin and Fuddruckers all in the area. I might suggest checking out a lesser-known option, the Parkside Bar and Grill (3 E Derry Rd Hershey, PA 17033), as they have some great burgers and other bar food options. Fans 4 As with most small college gyms, the bulk of the fans tends to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. It was a decent crowd but the student turnout seemed light. Access 5 Elizabethtown is located right off of the PA-283 freeway that runs between Harrisburg and Lancaster. Access to the town itself is quite easy. The college itself is located a few blocks from Market Street, which is the main street in E-Town. The town itself is fairly walkable, but driving and finding parking is not much of an issue. Return on Investment 5 There are no charges to attend games and parking is free so the value is fairly high. You also won’t be spending money on any food offerings, so there’s that. Extras 2 There is a nice Hall of Fame and other athletic displays down a hallway attached to the gymnasium. It is always cool to see national championship trophies no matter the level. E-Town is a great little extra on its own as this quaint Pennsylvania town is always a favorite stop of ours. Final Thoughts E-Town’s Thompson Gymnasium is a pleasant small college gym in an exactly pleasant small town. If traveling in central Pennsylvania attending a game here is a nice choice.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 CB&S Bank Arena at Flowers Hall 701 N Pine St Florence, AL 35632 North Alabama Lions website CB&S Bank Arena at Flowers Hall website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,233 CB&S Bank Arena One of the newer additions to NCAA Division I, the University of North Alabama Lions joined the ASUN Conference in 2018. The jump from Division II has come with several renovations to the nearly 50-year-old Flowers Hall, with maybe the biggest change being the addition of CB&S Bank Arena to the building’s name. Some of the upgrades have included replacing the wooden seating, the addition of large video boards, a new donor’s suite, and many behind-the-scenes upgrades that are unseen by most fans. Food & Beverage 3 The only concessions stand in the arena is in the main lobby, and it serves typical concession stand items. Hot dogs and nachos are the primary concessions, to which cheese and chili can be added for an additional $1.50 each. Hot dog combos are available for an extra $4.50. There is also a wide choice of candy and snacks such as chips, popcorn, and pretzels. Beverages include bottled Coke products, Powerade, and Monster energy drinks. Alcoholic beverages are not available for purchase at the concessions stand. Lines tend to get backed up at half time, so try to grab a bite during a timeout or just before the end of the half. Atmosphere 3 CB&S Arena has a rather retro appearance. It has a refreshing simplicity to it that is a throwback to pit gymnasiums where most of the fans sit above the benches, looking down onto the court. Upon entering the arena, fans with floor seats can enter up either of the ramps on the lobby level, whereas ticketed general admission seats will need to use the stairs on either side. If getting court level seats behind the bench, try to sit toward the back of the section, as players on the bench tend to obstruct the view of the game. There is no overhead scoreboard – rather there are several smaller scoreboards around the arena. Court level scoreboards give basic time and score, along with running player point totals and fouls, while a larger scoreboard with added team and player foul information hangs at each end. Two large video boards hang on either side of the basket at the home end of the court. Both boards are mostly used to show the video feed of the game, which seems a bit redundant. So while there are plenty of scoreboards around the arena, it would be nice to have more specific individual and team stats on one of the video boards. The in-game promotions and entertainment does a lot to highlight the spirit of college basketball. Most of the pre-game music is from the in-house DJ, but in-game stoppages in play are primarily run by the pep band and cheer squads. All-in-all, UNA does a good job at providing a well-balanced mix of modern and more traditional in game entertainment. Neighborhood 3 Located on the southern side of Florence, not far from the Tennessee River, the University of North Alabama and CB&S Arena are less than a mile from the city center. There, visitors can find a wide variety of shopping and dining options. One of the highly recommended establishments in this part of town is Willwood Tavern, known for its specialty hot dogs and vast menu. Not far from downtown Florence is Wilson Dam; this area offers hiking, camping, and some of the best smallmouth bass fishing around. Nearby is the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa, which is also home to the 360 Grille, Alabama’s only revolving restaurant. The 300-foot-tall tower resembles Seattle’s Space Needle and provides views of Wilson Dam and the surrounding area. Just across the Tennessee River from Florence are the towns of Sheffield and Muscle Shoals. Fans of classic rock might recognize the former from the Lynyrd Skynyrd song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” It was here Skynyrd recorded his first demo and sang of “Swampers” from Muscle Shoals, the local studio band that has provided studio backup for some of the largest names in music through the 70s and 80s. The studio has since been converted into a museum to recognize the role 3614 Jackson Highway played in music history. Fans 4 The University of North Alabama fans do a very good job at creating an extremely fun basketball atmosphere. Students show up early, hand out pom-poms, and get their whiteboards ready with ever changing messages to support their Lions. Their intensity hardly wavers throughout the game, and seemingly wills the team into defensive stops and important baskets at the most opportune times. While weekday games tend to have smaller crowds, conference weekend games are very well attended. Accessibility 2 There is no easy way to get to Florence, as it is located well off any of the major interstates that run through northern Alabama, southern Tennessee, or eastern Mississippi. If coming from out of the area, most fans will take I-65 to any of the various US highways or state roads that feed into Florence. Parking is available in the lots adjacent to the practice fields, where the UNA Athletics sign is, or in the lot behind Flowers Hall off Circular Drive. Return on Investment 3 Reserved court level seats start at $18, while general admission tickets run $12. An initial look at ticket prices might seem to be a bit on the higher side, but considering there is no fee for parking and that concessions are pretty affordable, the overall price is consistent with the rest of the conference. Extras 3 North Alabama has done well in utilizing the dead-space behind their endline bleachers – UNA has turned the area into the Treehouse Kids Zone, where kids run, jump, and play on inflatables during the game. The main lobby area gives a rather extensive look at the successes of UNA athletics. Featured are the several National Championships and other awards the school has won, along with a corner dedicated to All-Americans who have played at North Alabama. Final Thoughts What the University of North Alabama is trying to do by updating a 50-year-old arena is no easy feat. Many of the upgrades that have been made have worked well to fill a need, but have come at the expense of convenience in some areas. Overall, however, the upgrades have modernized and provided amenities that are useful when considering a jump from Division II to Division I. Even though Florence and North Alabama might not be a destination location for most, it is a basketball environment that the average fan should enjoy. Between the game presentation and the atmosphere created by the fans, pep band, and cheer squads, it has just about everything that is right about college basketball.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall 1001 E 17th St. Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 17,222 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall – Indiana Hoosiers For decades, Indiana University basketball has been synonymous with candy striped pants, championships, and of course, Bob Knight. While most have known IU basketball from the achievements of its men’s basketball program, the Indiana women’s program has established themselves as one of the top basketball draws in the state. Food & Beverage 3 Concession choices at Indiana are what would be expected at most stadiums. As the selections are fine, the choices do not really blow your mind. Prices are comparable with what you would find at most college arenas. Concessions at Indiana is possibly its weak point – there just does not seem to be much that would be considered a local specialty, that fans could not get somewhere else. Choices can be made from personal-sized pizzas ($8), hot dogs ($5/$8), and nachos ($5). There are also some individual carts for freshly made pretzels ($7), and of course Dippin’ Dots. Coke products are available for $5. Fans are able to purchase beer and hard seltzer, but mixed drinks and liquor is not available. Beer choices include Miller Light and Coors Light ($8), or craft beers from Bloomington’s Upland Brewery ($9). Atmosphere 5 Before renovations were completed in 2016, the then Assembly Hall was a bit of a dated facility. It still oozed history and tradition, but aesthetically seemed purposefully bland. However, following a $40 million gift, not only did the arena receive a much needed cosmetic and functional upgrade, but it also added “Simon Skjodt” to the “Assembly Hall” name. From the outside, the most noticeable change was the addition of a large, glassed lobby area that gives the arena a modern feel to it. Assembly Hall Main Lobby, Photo by David Welch, Stadium Journey Most fans will make their way to the second level of the building to get to their seats. Upon walking through the entranceway fans are welcomed by the arena’s massive scoreboard. The panels of the scoreboard are offset, which gives it a unique, non-symmetrical look. If the upper balcony is open, most fans traverse the stairwells at either end of the concourse to get to their seats. The views from the upper level are not bad, if you sit toward the front of the balcony. Neighborhood 5 Bloomington, Indiana is every bit a college town, and is commonly ranked as one of the best in the country; take a quick ride around the campus, and it is easy to tell why. Even though Bloomington has a population of 80,000 people, it does have the “small town” feel John Mellencamp sings about. There are a handful of restaurants near the arena, but just over a mile away is the social center of Bloomington, Kirkwood Avenue and Bloomington’s town square. These areas are home to much of the city’s nightlife, bars, hotels, and restaurants, including the legendary Nick’s English Hut. Students might be more apt to mention Buffa Louie’s as the go to spot for food, however. Or, if you are looking for a top-notch dinner, any alum will instantly mention Janko’s Little Zagreb as a near religious steak dinner experience. Fans 5 Tradition at Indiana is important, almost to a fault. What makes the tradition of Indiana so special though is that no matter how much things might change, no matter how many years pass, the traditions transcend generations – the things that made fans get on their feet and cheer 50 years ago are the same things that rile fans up today. It is quite the experience when 17,000 fans in unison sing the school’s fight song, or are clapping along to the William Tell Overture as part of the “Greatest Timeout in College Basketball.” There is little Hoosiers enjoy more than well played basketball, and in turn they show that appreciation by creating one of the most frenzied basketball environments in the country. Beyond the success the Indiana women’s basketball program has had on the court, Hoosier fans have recognized the emergence of the basketball program, and have followed behind with an incredible amount of support. Hoosier fans understand key moments in games, as well as important possessions, and respond in kind. They do not need any cues to get loud to will the Hoosiers to a big defensive stop, before erupting after a successful defensive stand. Indiana fans understand the game and are a key component in what makes basketball in Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall such an amazing experience. Accessibility 4 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is on the north side of Indiana’s campus, off Bloomington’s bypass. The arena’s location helps to limit the amount of on campus traffic visitors might have to encounter. Accessing the area from the north and south is rather direct from I-69, but fans coming from the east and west of Bloomington will likely have to navigate state roads and highways. Parking in the lots surrounding the arena is free. If possible, enter through the south entrance for an impressive first impression of the arena. From here, explore the east and west hallways to the north lobby, which houses many of the school’s championship trophies, as well as a spectacular reclamation of the previous center court and basketball stanchions. Navigating the concourses can get crowded considering the number of fans making their way to their seats, and others waiting in line for concessions. Return on Investment 5 Typically, tickets to Indiana women’s basketball are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Indiana is not afraid to put the environment they want at the forefront when it comes to offering significantly discounted tickets. Also, general admission tickets were priced at just $1 for a recent end-of-the-season matchup against in-state rival Purdue. With low ticket prices, free parking, and mostly affordable concessions, Indiana women’s basketball is a wonderful investment of both time and money. Extras 5 The arena itself is a museum to Indiana athletics – the hallways are lined with the history of all the athletic programs at IU; from the national and Big Ten championship trophies to recognizing every Olympian Indiana University has produced. Much of the history of Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall has been saved and incorporated into the arena. The scoreboard that once hung above center court is now attached to the walls of the main lobby, and provides a real time score for fans who are in the main lobby area. Not enough can be said about the job the in-game entertainment crews do – from the pep-band and cheer squads to the student promotions team, there is never a dead moment during timeouts. At Indiana, pre-recorded music takes a back seat to the pep-band that performs during almost every break. The thing that sets the Indiana women’s program apart is that they wear their heart on their sleeve when it comes to their love for Indiana University. Following each home game the players, coaches, and cheerleaders stand in front of the pep band and sing the school’s alma mater with the fans still in the stands. Final Thoughts Even though men’s basketball is what most know Indiana University for, the women’s program has broken out of that shadow into their own spotlight. The game is everything that would be expected from any of the top basketball programs in the country, from the palpable history of the building to the traditions both old and new, to the quality of basketball played on the court, to the sense that the team in white is playing with the pride of the state of Indiana riding on them. Indiana women’s basketball truly is a special experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Jimmy John’s Field 7171 Auburn Rd Utica, MI 48317 United Shore Professional Baseball League website Jimmy John’s Field website Year Opened: 2016 Capacity: 4,500 Four of a Kind in the USPBL The United Shores Professional Baseball League debuted in 2016 and set up home in Utica, Michigan in the suburbs of Detroit. The independent baseball league is home to four franchises that all play games at the $15 million Jimmy John’s Field. The Utica Unicorns, Birmingham-Bloomfield Beavers, Westside Wooly Mammoths, and the Eastside Diamond Hoppers all rotate and play 75 games for 15 weeks from May to September ensuring a game every weekend. The mastermind behind the USPBL is Andy Appleby who owns General Sports and Entertainment and funded the stadium construction. Appleby is the former owner of the Ft. Wayne Wizards (Midwest League) and Derby County Football Club (Football League Championship) and has borrowed many elements of his experience and included them into the stadium to enhance the game-day experience. These elements include seven Founders Level and five Premium Dugout Suites on field level underneath the 2,000 seats that stretch from first to third base. Home plate is 37 feet from the suites, the closest in all of professional baseball. The stadium also offers 12 Private Patio Cabana Suites, 18 On Field Diamond Tables, three Picnic and Group Areas, and grass berm seating behind right field. The AAA Clubhouse is a full-service bar featuring flat-screen televisions, tables, couches, and lounge areas. The USPBL has sold out 102 out of its first 150 games during the league’s first two seasons and has attracted 3,325 fans per game over that time–only West Michigan and Lansing have attracted more during that same span in the state of Michigan. Food & Beverage 4 Jimmy John’s Field has lots of great menu options, but surprisingly not Jimmy John’s sandwiches. The ballpark is home to two full-service bars: Patron Bar that specializes in frozen margaritas and The Backstop Bar on the upper concourse. The food is reasonably priced, with most items ranging between $5 and $7, while the snacks are in the $3-$4 range. The ballpark offers smoked turkey wings, pulled pork nachos, and pulled pork sandwiches from Big Bone BBQ stand. The Southwest Cantina offers street tacos, New Mexican corn, and cantina bowls. Snacks and desserts include cookies, pretzels, cheese poppers, ice cream, gelato, nachos, cotton candy, popcorn, potato chips, and peanuts. The popcorn stand sells prepackaged bags in all of the clubs’ colors of red, green, and purple. Pepsi products are sold throughout the ballpark. The Short Hops Craft Beer Garden is located on the lower concourse, third base side featuring Michigan craft brews such as Midlawn Brewing (4 Hops Pale Ale), Sherwood Brewing Company (Cracker Jacked Ale), and Brooks Brewing (Pinch Hopper IPA). The area also allows visitors entrance after 9 P.M. and a 24-ounce souvenir cup. Atmosphere 4 There are plenty of options for visitors at Jimmy John’s Field. The 2,000 fixed seats provide a higher vantage point of the game, while the large grass berm seating area offers plenty of legroom behind right field. The wraparound concourse allows fans to view the game from different areas that are distinct from one another. There are usually two mascots walking around the ballpark. Ribbi (frog), Lancelot (unicorn), and Buzz (beaver) might even battle with one another for some great photo moments. Anyone of these mascots can also be seen outside on the main street or parking lot before the game greeting customers as they pull up to the ballpark. Appleby created a lot of nice details to ensure the ballpark’s success. There are copious vantage points to enjoy the ball game, but all areas are not open to the general public as many of these sections cater to corporate sponsors, their workers, and large groups. However, it is one of the most appealing and surreal ballparks in the country. The stadium added a dance crew for the current season that is made up of a 26-member senior dance crew that performs at most games. The four teams also have their own distinct theme songs, and J.J., The Field General, is a golden retriever who is among the line of bat dogs who also brings water to the umpires and retrieves balls when needed. A new speed pitch machine featuring life-size replicas of a pitcher and batter was added for the kids, who also get to enjoy the whiffle ball and playground area in the left field corner of the ballpark. It is not unusual to see a few kids and their parents swing for the fences and run around the bases. Neighborhood 4 Downtown Utica has seen a boom in commerce with the addition of Jimmy John’s Field, the main strip is a few blocks from the ballpark and houses a few places to enjoy a bite to eat or something to drink before or after the game. Danny J’s Brick Tavern offers wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and salads; Hogs Hollow Smokehouse is a funky little joint specializing in barbecue, and great Irish fare can be enjoyed at Shamrock Irish Pub. There are also Cactus Jacks, Muldoon’s, and The Locker Room Saloon as other options in downtown Utica. Fans 4 The fans have responded overwhelmingly to the new ballpark with various sold-out games and positive word of mouth. However, housing three teams may divide up the allegiance of the fans, but everyone in attendance during our visit was enjoying their time and it looks as if the Unicorns are the early favorites among the four-ball clubs. Access 5 Jimmy John’s Field is located on M-59 between I-75 and I-94. The ballpark is very easy to navigate around the wraparound concourse. Stairs and elevators take patrons to their seats. Bathrooms are conveniently located throughout the stadium and signage is clear and visible. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Jimmy John’s Field are broken up into six different price points. The lowest tickets are $6 lawn seats behind the right field fence and the most expensive are the $35 front row club seats. In between, customers will find affordable price options when purchasing a ticket to the game. They include the $20 drink rail, $12 backstop, $15 infield, and the $20 platinum club. However, the price of each section goes up to $1 to $2 on game days with the exception of front row club seats. Parking to all games is free around the ballpark and street parking is available up against the street in downtown Utica. There is even a free shuttle service that brings people to and from their cars before and after games. Extras 4 One extra point for the field suites that are underneath the main seating section and are less than 40 feet from the backstop. Another extra point for the Wiffle ball baseball field tucked behind the right field corner. The giant smoker that provides a wonderful aroma down the third baseline is worth an extra point for your nose. The final extra point for providing free parking for patrons. Final Thoughts There is a lot to say about Jimmy John’s Field and the USPBL. There have been leagues in the past that have operated out of one baseball stadium, but those stadiums were nowhere near the caliber of Jimmy John’s Field. The customer is greatly pampered and surrounded by a friendly staff and all the best features of the minor league experience. Appleby hopes to build similar baseball stadiums in the Midwest and other parts of Michigan, with each housing four teams. He is one of the first individuals to successfully create a league consisting of one home ballpark with multiple teams. If he can harness this success to other ballparks around the Midwest, he might very well be the smartest person in all of minor league baseball.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium at Lynn Cottrell Park 201 Barlow Rd Dahlonega, GA 30597 North Georgia Nighthawks website Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium at Lynn Cottrell Park website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 222 There’s a Softball Park in Them Thar Hills! The University of North Georgia (UNG) opened in 1873. It is in Dahlonega, GA, and has a student body of 18,046. Its’ largest areas of study are biology, psychology, and business. The University of North Georgia is one of only six senior military colleges in the U.S. Students are not required to be in the military programs at UNG, but a sizable percentage of the student body does enroll in the military sciences area of study. The athletic team at UNG are known as the Nighthawks. They participate in sports at the Division II level of the NCAA as a member of the Peach Belt Conference. This conference includes smaller schools from the states of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. The home of Nighthawks softball is the on-campus Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium, more popularly known as simply “The Hill”. It is in Lynn Cottrell Park, UNG’s Outdoor Athletic Complex. It opened in time for the 2009 season and has a seating capacity of 222, plus a terraced area beyond the outfield walls. Major improvements since its’ 2009 opening include the addition of the FieldTurf artificial turf in 2014 and the installation of a new video board in 2020. The softball team is a longtime powerhouse in Division II softball, as it has won 50 or more games per season six times since moving into The Hill. This includes seven trips to the NCAA Division II Championship round and four visits to the Division II Super Regionals. The Lady Nighthawks were the National Champions for Division II in 2015. They have won eleven Sun Belt Season Championships since the stadium opened, as well as fourteen Sun Belt Tournament Championships. The NCAA has also recognized The Hill as an excellent facility, as it served as the site for the Southeastern Regionals of Division II from 2009-2012 and 2014-2019. North Georgia University firmly believes that the stadium and its ongoing improvements have been a boon to its recruiting efforts. Food & Beverage 4 There is one concession stand located at Coleman Field House. The stand is well-staffed, and the lines move quickly. The stand serves a very basic ballpark standards menu. However, the prices at the concession stand are much lower than we find at most college venues. The menu includes hot dogs ($3.75), nachos ($3.75), pretzels ($3.50), candy ($2.25), and chips ($1.25). The stand carries Coca-Cola brand beverages ($2) and bottled water ($2). Beer is not sold on the University of North Georgia campus. Atmosphere 4 Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium is a great place to enjoy a Nighthawks softball game. It is a very modern facility, as it opened in only 2009. The ballpark features the blue, gold, and white team colors of UNG. The ballpark is in a valley, between several forested hills, which form a backdrop beyond the outfield walls. The grandstand is located behind home plate, and it features some very comfortable chairback seats. Fans have a great view of the action no matter where they are in the bleachers. The entire field, including the infield base paths, is made of a synthetic surface. This is due to the harsh weather conditions in February when the softball season gets underway. The Nighthawks have very few rainouts during the season. The ballpark also features a state-of-the-art electronics package. There is a large videoboard in left-center field behind the outfield wall. It was installed in 2020. The videoboard features each batter’s name and background information as they come to the plate, in addition, it also provides information on the upcoming games. The sound system at The Hill is extremely clear. Neighborhood 4 UNG is in Dahlonega, GA. Dahlonega was the site of the first Gold Rush in the U.S. in 1828. Gold in very small amounts can still be found in the area. The city of Dahlonega is located 66 miles north of Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains. The heart of Dahlonega is Courthouse Square, which is just two blocks east of the UNG campus. The square is filled with unique shops, great restaurants, and services that fill the everyday needs of both the year-round population and the UNG student body. The old courthouse in the square is now home to the Dahlonega Gold Rush State Historic Site Museum. Among the more popular businesses located on the square are the Dahlonega Brewing Company, and the iconic Smith House Inn and Restaurant. The Smith House Inn opened in 1899 and is still an active lodging site. Its’ restaurant is famous for its family-style dining, and it is packed regularly with both locals and tourists. Dahlonega hosts several festivals each year, with the biggest being Gold Rush Days in October. This festival celebrates both the town’s heritage with gold and the fall leaf colors in the North Georgia mountains. The area is also a hub for the wine industry in Georgia. There are more than 15 wineries amongst the hills surrounding the town. The surrounding mountains also draw many outdoor enthusiasts to the area for hiking, white water rafting, and mountain biking. For more information on things to do during your stay in the area, go to www.dahlonega.org. Fans 4 The fan base at Nighthawk games consists of students, parents, and family members of the players as well as the townspeople of Dahlonega. UNG and the townspeople of Dahlonega share a great town/gown relationship. UNG is the only sports game in town, other than the lone high school in the county. Fans proudly wear the UNG colors, even if they have no official link to the school. Access 4 The UNG campus and The Hill are located 66 miles north of Atlanta. They are easily reached via Highway 400 and US Highway 19. Once in Dahlonega, turn left at Morrison Parkway. Go 1.5 miles and turn left at Barlow Road. Parking and the ballpark will be on your left. Directions from Atlanta: Take Highway 400/US 19 North for 32 miles. When Highway 400 ends, continue on Highway 19 North for 8 miles. Turn left at the red light for South Chestatee Street (US 19) This will bring you up and over a steep hill that overlooks the city of Dahlonega. After you have passed the hospital, go down the hill to the next traffic light. Turn left onto Morrison Moore Parkway. Turn left on Barlow Road. The parking lot and The Hill will be on your left. You can park in any space in the lot. Gates to the ballpark open one hour before the first pitch, leaving you plenty of time to watch batting practice or visit the concession stand in Coleman Field House. Return on Investment 5 You will not break the bank when you attend a softball game at Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium. Parking is free anywhere within the Lynn Cottrell Athletics Park. Ticket prices are $10.00 for General Admission seats and $7.00 for Seniors/Students/Military. The items at the concession stand are priced well below the typical costs charged at most college venues. Programs for the softball games are free, as they are digital, and are available by snapping a photo of the QR code at the entrance to the ballpark. Lodging in the area can be found for less than $100 during the softball season. Extras 4 The University of North Georgia turns 150 years old in 2023. Several special observances will be held throughout the season, highlighting the athletic achievements of various Nighthawk teams over the years. Dahlonega gold covers the steeple of the Price Memorial Hall on the UNG campus and the Georgia State Capitol Dome in Atlanta. As an active Senior Military College, UNG still has military observances of Reveille, Retreat, and Taps. While only students in the military studies programs observe Reveille and Taps, all students, faculty, and staff stop when Retreat is sounded at 5 pm. They stop whatever they are doing and put their hands over their hearts and face the Drill Field while the Colors are taken down and the cannon on the field is fired. Zac Brown of the Zac Brown Band is a native of Dahlonega and he took classes at UNG. Final Thoughts Haynes and Carolyn Hill Stadium provide a better-than-average experience for small college softball fans. Its’ state-of-the-art facility offers a beautiful setting amongst the North Georgia mountains, with an electronics package that you would expect to have at a much larger school. The fan base is a model of town/gown cooperation, with everyone wearing the school colors. Finally, the town of Dahlonega offers visitors plenty of things to do before or after the game.

What happened to those World War II military assets? And what the heck do they have to do with hockey? Join Dave and Paul and grab a good beer to find out all the details and what any of it has to do with the Rensselaer Engineers! You can find Stadium Journey's review of the Houston Field House and the RPI hockey gameday experience here.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Indiana Farmers Coliseum 1202 E 38th St Indianapolis, IN 46205 IUPUI basketball website Indiana Farmers Coliseum website Year Opened: 1939 Capacity: 6,300 The Jags Are on the Prowl The IUPUI Jaguars returned to the Indiana Farmers Coliseum on the Indiana State Fairgrounds for the first time since the 1978-79 season in 2014. However, the facility is much different than it was when the men’s program last played in the building. The coliseum underwent a two-year, $63-million renovation that resulted in much-needed changes including wide-open concourses, an updated main lobby, terrazzo flooring, exposed steel and wooden beams, and a stylized new basketball court. It was a dramatic change from the team’s previous home on the downtown campus-the IUPUI Gymnasium. Known as “The Jungle,” to fans the Jaguars’ previous home was a cozy 1,200-seat facility that served the team since 1982. Another change was when the Jags moved to the Horizon League on July 1, 2017, after previous seasons in the Summit League. In 2003, the basketball team won its lone conference championship title. The team’s digs six miles north of their downtown campus is a bold move and perhaps an even bolder statement in the university’s direction with its basketball program. However, as the move away from campus bring out the Jaguar faithful and more hometown supporters to the Indiana State Fairgrounds? Food & Beverage 3 In comparison to Indy Fuel hockey games at Indiana Farmers Coliseum, not all of the concession stands are in operation during IUPUI games. There are two concession stands open behind the 200/100 sections. The items include pizza (plain and pepperoni), hot dogs, burgers, nachos, pretzels, and popcorn. Pepsi products are served in 16 and 32-ounce cups. Beer is offered on draft and includes Bud Light and varieties from local standards Bier Brewerng, Centerpoint, and Black Dog Atmosphere 2 There is a small splattering of patrons throughout the lower-level seating concourse. The upper level is closed for the men’s basketball game. A student section is visible, but there are no signs, painted faces, or acts of revelry as with other area college facilities. A live D.J. ejects excitement to the crowd with live music and cheering. The team’s official mascot, Jawz, does his best to stir up the crowd during the game. The main lobby is a nod to another era with vintage photos, resurfaced original facility seating, and art deco ticket booths. There is a small table selling IUPUI merchandise in front of the closed gates of the Indy Fuel gift shop. The coliseum makes for a fantastic place to watch basketball and the team’s stylish court is emblazoned with the Indianapolis skyline – it makes it one of the keenest in the state. However, it is a very calm atmosphere and one that should have its moments in the future. Neighborhood 2 If you happen to attend a weekend game, make sure to make a visit to the Hook’s Drugstore Museum located within seconds of the coliseum on the fairgrounds. The old drug store houses the world’s largest selection of drug store memorabilia from old lanterns, signage, medicine boxes, shelves, and an old-fashioned soda fountain where they still make drinks and sell candy. Admission is free, but it is a wonderful place to visit and take a step back in time. A few miles north in South Broad Ripple is Taste Cafe, featuring gourmet sandwiches, soups, and salads. Lava Lips is a hot sauce bar where one can try as many sauces as they want on the Scoville Scale and also pick up a couple of bottles. The SoBro Cafe features vegan, vegetarian, and carnivorous items that are made from scratch. If you desire something a little fancier, then Mama Carolla’s is the area’s best spot for Italian cuisine in an authentic setting. Fans 2 There are passionate fans at the game and perhaps a weeknight game while class is in session might result in a different atmosphere. The Jaguar faithful do their best to cheer on the team and support hometown college basketball. I truly believe that with the team’s brand new state-of-the-art arena, you will see a few more fans attending games shortly. Access 3 The crowds are not big for games and getting in and out of the fairgrounds is quick and easy. The price to park is $10, but they did not charge during our visit. I am not sure if this is the case for all Jags home games. There are two entries at either Fall Creek Parkway or 38th Street; with the best choice at Fall Creek. Once inside the coliseum, the concourses are a little narrow, but easy to walk around if one desires a scenic tour around the renovated arena. Return on Investment 3 The ticket prices are $10 for adults and $7 for youth (ages 3-12). The ticket prices are for any seat in any section of the coliseum. The school could have set up a few price points to gain an extra few dollars from patrons, but it is a nice nod that tickets are just one price and very affordable in the frenzied basketball-loving Hoosier state. Extras 2 The Jaguars have a very sleek-looking basketball court and a silhouette of the Indianapolis skyline. The Jags earn another extra for having only one price point for their ticket sales; a very simple and easy way to purchase a ticket to the game at Indiana Farmers Coliseum. Final Thoughts The relocation from the small gymnasium to the spacious coliseum adds another venerable and enjoyable “fieldhouse” to the city of Indianapolis. It is an arena that has its share of history, the Indiana Pacers called it home in the ABA from their inception in 1967-1974 and hosted the Indiana State High School Championships during World War II. At this point, the coliseum is looking at starting a few more basketball traditions within its walls. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com